Whale Watching

Whale watch tours from Orcas Island give you a chance to get out on the water and see the islands beautiful shoreline.  From the boat you will see bald eagles soar, sea lions bask in the sun, and most of the majestic Orca whales perform their graceful dance.  There is nothing like the sight of a pod of 30 foot creatures swimming gracefully through the emerald waters.  Truly a once in a lifetime experience and not to be missed while visiting the San Juan Islands.

There are several whale watching tour operators on the island and they all do a very good job. 

Dan and Denise Wilks of Eclipse Charters Whale Watching have been sharing their knowledge of the islands for over 25 years and I have personally been out on their boat several times.  It's spacious, with both indoor and outdoor viewing areas as well as knowledgeable naturalists to educate about the wildlife as you go.  They depart from the Orcas Island Ferry Landing.

Outer Island Expeditions also provides a great experience and they depart from Brandt's Landing in Eastsound for their whale watching tours.  They also provide a guarantee that if you don't see whales you can take another trip for free.

For departures from beautiful Deer Harbor Marina, Deer Harbor Charters has been providing fantastic trips since 1988.  They also provide day sailing trips from Deer Harbor and Rosario Resort.