The San Juan Archipelago is made up of 128 named islands, and close to 400 islands in total. It is where the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Strait of Georgia, and Puget Sound all meet. Because of this unique geographic position, the archipelago has been an incredibly significant location for Coast Salish people, the indigenous people who have lived on these shores since time immemorial and continue to thrive. The fluctuating tide, and currents from all directions bring rich nutrients together, providing critical habitat for whales, seals, sea birds, and eagles. And in the distance in all directions, peaks from the Cascade Range, Olympic Peninsula and Vancouver Island loom overhead providing a stark contrast to the maritime setting at sea level. It is a destination with unrivaled history, culture, wildlife and scenery, recognized as a National Monument and National Marine Preserve (the ocean version of a National Park!). The best way to experience the beauty of this magical place is from the water.
Our journey begins in Downtown Seattle where our comfortable high-roof van picks you up at your hotel, or an agreed upon meeting place. We travel north as the city eventually fades into the farmland of the Skagit and Snohomish Valleys. Prior to getting on the water, we will get out to stretch our legs at Deception Pass State Park, one of our hidden gems, on par with national parks in both scenery and recreation opportunities. Visitors come to explore the park’s stunning collection of jagged cliffs, ripping currents, and secret coastlines–making Deception Pass Washington’s most-visited State Park. After a delicious picnic lunch we arrive the town of Anacortes to board our wildlife and whale watching vessel. For the next three hours we will cross channels and go in and out of bays searching for whales and other wildlife. On board you’ll learn about the region’s wildlife, geography, and history from the onboard naturalist guide. Back on shore, we will get back in the van to head back to Seattle, and reflect on the amazing memories from your time on the water.
SAMPLE ITINERARY
10:00a Depart Seattle after Downtown Pickups
Generally, our last pickup will be at the Sheraton Grand Hotel at 10:00am. For other downtown hotel locations, we’ll meet you there prior to this time and reach out to you the day before your trip to confirm the exact timing. Let our team know where you are staying, and we’ll do everything we can to make your pickup as easy as possible.
11:30a Explore Deception Pass State Park
Begin the day with a naturalist guided exploration of Washington’s favorite state park! Deception Pass State Park reveals a hidden pocket of rugged wilderness and unbelievable history replete with smuggling and shipwrecks. We’ll take our time beachcombing the rocky shore and exploring the forested trails that wind around with views of the Salish Sea. Bring your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for marine wildlife like eagles, seals, or otters who frequent this area.
If you’re up for it, challenge yourself to walk across the iconic 180-foot-high bridge that spans the width of Deception Pass for an exhilarating experience and unbeatable views.
1:30p Lunch at Deception Pass State Park
Enjoy a locally-sourced picnic lunch with a view at Deception Pass State Park. We take care of all the logistics for today so you can just sit back, relax throughout the entire experience.
3:00p Whale Watching Boat Tour
After lunch, join our friends and partners at Outer Island Excursions in Anacortes for an afternoon whale watching experience aboard one of their custom high-speed powerboats, designed specifically with comfort and speed in mind to make the most of your time on the water.
Over 3 hours, we’ll journey through the Salish Sea on a quest for Orcas, Humpbacks, Grays, & Minke Whales. We prioritize finding Orcas amongst the San Juan Islands, but we also frequently encounter seals, sea lions, porpoises, otters, eagles, and many sea birds. Explore the fascinating world of these majestic creatures while enjoying a thrilling adventure on the water. Knowledgeable naturalist guides and experienced captains provide valuable insights into the behavior and habitat of wildlife, offering a truly enriching experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
6:30p Depart Anacortes, WA
After a full and adventurous day, we will make our way back to the Emerald City, reminiscing on the incredible wildlife sightings and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
8:30p Downtown Seattle Hotel Drop Offs
Upon returning to Seattle, we’ll drop travelers off where we found them (or another preferred spot nearby).
Photos from Your Destination
