Whale Watching Tours

Deer Harbor Marina &  rosario resort

We hope you join us for an informative, narrated cruise through the San Juan Islands in search of Orca Whales (Killer Whales), Humpback Whales and Minke Whales as well as other unique wildlife. The thrill of spotting one of these majestic creatures in the wild is a truly unforgettable experience.

**Join a public trip or reserve a private charter for your group, gathering or friends!**

Whale watching tour FAQ's

Common Wildlife You May See on Your Tour

  • Orca Whales
  • Humpback Whales
  • Minke Whales
  • Dall's Porpoises
  • Harbor Porpoises
  • Stellar Sea Lions
  • Harbor Seals
  • Bald Eagles
  • Cormorants
  • ... so much more!

Orcas Island Whale Watching

We are lucky enough to have two distinct eco-types of Orca Whales that frequent our region - Biggs Orca Whales and Southern Resident Orca whales. Biggs orca whales aka mammal eating orca whale make up roughly 100% of our orca whale sightings while Southern Resident Orca Whales (SRKWs) aka fish eating orca whale, make up roughly 0% of our orca whale sightings.

About 10 years ago we watched SRKWs almost exclusively and rarely had viewings of Biggs orca. Since then, the population of Biggs orca have increased dramatically! With new calfs each year and a steady food supply, it looks like the Biggs have moved in for good. In contrast, our Souther Resident Killer Whales (SRKWs) are struggling to find food and maintain healthy population. Lack of prey, vessel noise, pollution are some of the suspected impacts that are aiding to the continued population decline of our SRKWs.

In 2021, the Washington State Legislator passed laws banning the viewing of SRKWs from vessels between the months of September -May. Permitted Vessels (like Deer Harbor Charters) may view SRKWS between June - August as long as they stay at least 400 yards away. However, due to the populations vulnerability, Deer Harbor Charters has suspended viewing of SRKWs until the population shows signs of recovering.

Thank you for reading and supporting our Family Business! Call (360)376-5989 for whale sightings information or if you have questions or comments.