3 Wildlife Trips in Seattle to Plan a Day Around

1.Half-Day Wildlife and Whale Watching Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 · 378 reviews · 4 hours · from $148Our pick

Leave Pier 69 for a three-to-five-hour cruise through the Salish Sea, searching for orcas, humpback and gray whales, seals, sea lions, and seabirds. An onboard naturalist explains the wildlife and conservation work. Food and drinks are sold onboard, and you receive a free trip if no whales are sighted.

“Not only did we see Orca, we saw a family pod of Biggs Transients. We even got to see them hunt! Our captains, support staff, and naturalist guide were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. 10/10 would go again!”

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2.Only Wildlife and Whale Watching Tour Leaving from Seattle

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 248 reviews · 3 to 5 hours (approx.) · from $153

Leave downtown Seattle aboard an FRS Clipper vessel for a three to five hour search for whales and other Salish Sea wildlife. An onboard naturalist explains animal behavior and conservation, while you watch from the deck or choose a seat indoors. Orcas, humpbacks, seals, and porpoises are all possible, but sightings are never certain.

“The staff were amazing. We just didn’t see any activity except for 3-4 pop ups of minkos whales. Was given a voucher that’s good for a year but not living in the area not sure when I’ll be able to come back. Kinda wish there was an option of getting maybe 50% back of cash back vs voucher. You just really have to be prepared that you might not see whales.”

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3.Full Day Whale/Wildlife Tour; Friday Harbor Stop

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 5 reviews · 6h 30m · from $279Top rated

Set out from Anacortes on a semi-covered boat limited to six passengers, with a heated cabin, outdoor deck and onboard restroom. Your guide searches the San Juan Islands for orcas, humpback, gray and minke whales, plus sea lions, porpoises and eagles. The roughly 6.5-hour trip includes two hours to explore Friday Harbor.

“Incrível, vimos muitas baleias orcas, apesar do tempo chuvoso a navegação foi tranquila! Tyler foi impecável, até dicas de restaurantes em Friday Harbor!”

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