Whale Watching in Washington
Whale watching expeditions to see the migration of Killer Whales and Orca Whales have become one of the most well loved vacation activities in the Pacific Northwest. Although whales can often be seen from the shores, Washington state is home to many private whale watching excursions along its coast. Located in the northwest corner of the state, the San Juan Islands are a gateway for most small boat whale watching expeditions in Washington.
The San Juan Islands are comprised of more than 170 islands that were once part of the mountain range that joined Washington state to Vancouver Island. Vancouver Island and the Olympic Penninsula shield the San Juan Islands from the Pacific Ocean. Over 80 of the islands are protected under the San Juan Island Refuge that serves as home to Orca whales and other unique wildlife. In fact, nearly 100 Orca whales are year-round residents of the San Juan Islands area. Located more than 20 miles from the mainland, the islands are accessible only by Washington State ferry service, small planes or private boats. The four main islands in the system that are serviced by Washington ferries are San Juan, Orcas, Lopez and Shaw.
With such a wide array of wildlife and the nearly constant presence of whales near the San Juan Islands, Washington state is a whale watchers paradise. In order to take advantage of whale watching opportunities many charter boat companies offer small tours and excursions. These private companies provide the personalization that larger tour ships simply cannot accommodate. Some whale watching boats offer three to four hour tours with a small, intimate number of people. This gives all guests equal opportunity to see the whales without the jostling of crowds. Whale watching from a smaller boat gives everyone aboard a better chance to experience the beauty of the whales and easily glean information from tour operators about the local area.
April to September is considered high-season on the San Juan Islands. Visitors will typically find whale watching expeditions available during these times, so be sure to plot a vacation accordingly. Sometimes the smaller whale watching operations who are able to search farther out will offer tours from late-March up until the end of October. For days when the whales are just not in the area, most tour companies will offer enjoyable and informative excursions throughout the San Juan Islands Refuge to see its other inhabitants like the sea birds, sea lions and seals. Kayaks can also be taken out to get in even closer proximity to the wildlife.
Whale watchers will find that the San Juan Islands offer an unparalleled experience for seeing Killer whales and Orca whales in the wild. With careful preparation and research, a trip to these islands gems in the Pacific Northwest very well may be the highlight of a lifetime. The natural beauty and unspoiled of the San Juan Islands Refuge is truly a sight to behold.
Bill Carli lives and operates Carli Whale Watch Tours in the San Juan Islands where the beauty of local wildlife abounds.