San Juan Island is the seasonal home to three pods of orca whales, and whale watching is among the
island’s most popular activities. Peak season is from May-September, but that shouldn’t stop you from
visiting during the off-peak months. If you do, you’ll see more eagles, stellar sea lions, porpoises and
other kinds of wildlife.

Choose whale and wildlife cruises by boat size. The adventurous are best served by one of San Juan Island’s
small operators, while mid-sized boats offer the most flexible schedules. Large boats are best for small
children and people unaccustomed to the water.

Stay at 123 West in Friday Harbor to be within easy walking distance of the boats.

Small Boats >>>

North Shore Charters

• create a custom adventure on the water, visiting outer islands, fishing, going to Victoria BC or
  shuttling between the San Juan Islands various ports on your own schedule.

Maya’s Westside Whale Watch Charters

• offers an intimate San Juan Islands wildlife experience in a 2007 Glacier Bay catamaran with
  exceptional visibility for all passengers, great speed and a full head (bathroom)!

Outer Island Expeditions

• Outer Island Expeditions offers personalized whale and wildlife trips, charter fishing, island hopping,
  boat-supported kayak tours and outer island exploration.  Their flexibility allows for a private, intimate
  and authentic wildlife experience.

Medium Boats >>>

Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours

• has provided quality San Juan Island tours fsince 1986. The 46′ Western Prince II is large enough for
  safety and comfort, yet small enough for a more interactive experience.

San Juan Outfitters

• specializes in providing high quality whale watch, kayak, and adventure tours for
  groups small and large, families, and independent travelers

Large Boats >>>

San Juan Safaris

• offers one of the best-organized and most professional trips in the San Juan Islands in their new, fast, 55-foot boat,
  with departures from Friday Harbor.

San Juan Excursions

• offers Friday Harbor whale watching on the island’s largest whale watch boat, the 64 foot Odyssey.

More Whale and Wildlife Tips >>>

• The only US state park dedicated to whale watching is less than 10 miles from Friday Harbor, on
  San Juan Island’s west side. Whales typically pass the park once or twice per day in season. If you left
  your car behind, San Juan Transit offers a regularly scheduled bus. Fantastic, picnic-perfect sunsets.

• Don’t miss Friday Harbor’s renowned Whale Museum, featuring interactive exhibits, a gift shop,
  gallery and friendly staff available to answer all your whale and wildlife questions.