San Juan Islands & whale watching · Pacific Northwest, Washington
Whale Watching from Friday Harbor

Photos from the tour operator, via Viator.
Overview
The best orca whale watching is from Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, just an easy day trip adventure from downtown Seattle. The San Juan Islands are considered the "jewel" of the Pacific Northwest, located in the Puget Sound.
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation (see policy below)
- Up to 40 travelers
What's included
- Whale Watching Cruise
- Local taxes
- Friday Harbor Port Fee
- Any and All Transportation to/from Friday Harbor, San Juan Island
- Gratuities
- We do not provide any food or beverage, though guests are wecome to bring their own.
- You must take a ferry or float plane to get to Friday Harbor on San Juan Island where our tour departs from. We recommend taking the ferry as a walk on passenger.
What you'll see
-
San Juan Island
· 240 min
San Juan Island is considered one of the best place to view wild orca whales because the surrounding nutrient rich water of the Salish Sea. These nutrients draw all types of marine animals, including large marine mammals like orcas. Take this Whale watching tour and see orca whales, during peak season we have a 90-95% success rate of spotting orca, minke, humpback and gray whales. What is the best time to see orca whales? Anytime. They are out and about all day. Aside from whales, many other marine mammals like harbor seals and stellar sea lions, as well as various sea birds, bald eagles and some unique terrestrial mammals are all common sightings! You'll definitely come back with memories to last a lifetime! Enjoy the beauty of San Juan Island on an exclusive Whale Watch Cruise from Friday Harbor. Tour operate on either M/V Sea Lion or M/V Osprey which both have indoor cabins, inside and outside seating, full wrap around viewing decks, and restrooms on board.
Meeting point
San Juan Safaris' office shares a space with Riptide Cafe, located under Downriggers Restaurant. Parking is available up the hill by the Courthouse. Friday Harbor is accessible by plane or Washington State Ferry. If taking a car, reservations are HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Good to know
- Service animals allowed
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- For maximum safety children under 2 should be in a harness carrier strapped to a parent and remain in the cabin
- Restrooms are available on board the boat
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From our members
No member reviews yet. Took this tour? Tell other travelers how it went.
Write a reviewReviews from signed-in Ready Set Go members, checked before they appear. Review guidelines
Reviews
Loading reviews…