Seattle is known for many attractions—such as the Space Needle, incredible outdoor activities, and locally sourced food. However, what truly defines Seattle is its stunning location. Nestled between mountains to the east and Puget Sound to the west, Seattle serves as an ideal base for whale watching adventures.

While many whale watching tours embark from Everett, Anacortes, or the San Juan Islands, there are also opportunities to set sail from Seattle. Here’s everything you need to know to embark on a thrilling whale watching experience.

The Puget Sound hosts several species of whales, including humpbacks and orcas. Getting out onto the water to encounter these majestic creatures is an exhilarating day trip you won’t want to miss. Although whale sightings are not guaranteed, you will likely observe a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and porpoises, enhancing your experience.

If the prospect of not seeing a whale concerns you, it’s prudent to inquire about the tour company’s policy on missed sightings. Many companies will allow you to reschedule or offer additional tours if whales do not appear. If the company you contact does not provide such options, consider looking elsewhere since many others do.

Types of Whales Near Seattle

Orcas typically receive the most attention during whale watching excursions in the area. These magnificent creatures can be seen year-round, with peak viewing occurring during spring and summer. Their striking black and white patterns make them a thrilling sight. Adult orcas measure between 25 to 30 feet and belong to three pods known as J, K, and L. Knowledgeable tour guides often identify the specific pods and individual whales based on their markings.

Minke and Humpback whales are also present during the orca season, particularly from May through October, providing an excellent opportunity to see diverse marine life.

Gray whales frequent the area as well, particularly in March and April. These whales migrate between the Baja Peninsula and Alaska, stopping to interact with Puget Sound’s fauna along their journey.

Spotting Whales Without a Tour

While joining a whale watching tour increases your chances of spotting whales, it is not the only method available. With adequate research and preparation, you can venture out on your own for a whale watching experience in Seattle or other nearby communities.

The Orca Network is a valuable resource that promotes awareness of orcas and their habitats in the Northwest. This platform offers insights on where to find orca sightings and other marine wildlife, making it easier for you to track these magnificent creatures. Locations such as Point Defiance or Discovery Park, which offer elevated viewpoints, are excellent spots to observe whales from the shore.

Tours

Numerous whale watching tours depart from various points north of Seattle, but you can also find tours directly out of Seattle. Clipper Vacations offers popular tours that often combine whale watching with visits to other destinations. Expect to enjoy two to three hours on the water while searching for sea life, along with time exploring beautiful locales such as Whidbey Island or Friday Harbor.

Another option from Seattle is Puget Sound Express, which provides trips similar to Clipper Vacations, taking you to the San Juan Islands. Though it’s uncommon to spot whales close to Seattle, these tours set you on a northern journey, significantly increasing your chances of sightings.

A distinctive experience is available through Kenmore Air, which offers seaplane flights from Seattle to the San Juan Islands. These packages combine the thrill of air travel with the excitement of whale watching tours.

Other Places Tours Leave From

Since most tours do not depart directly from Seattle, consider exploring options in neighboring cities to the north. Popular departure points include Everett, Anacortes, and Port Townsend. Each of these locations provides an array of tour companies dedicated to whale watching, often allowing for more extensive time on the water as they are closer to the San Juan Islands.

With Everett being approximately 45 minutes from Seattle, and both Anacortes and Port Townsend around two hours away, these embarkation points are ideal for maximizing your whale watching experience. However, accessing Port Townsend may require a longer travel time, as you’ll often need to take a ferry or drive around the Puget Sound.

Types of Tours

Whale watching tours typically involve boarding boats that accommodate anywhere from 20 to 100 passengers. These vessels generally offer both indoor and outdoor seating, which is especially beneficial during cooler months like March and April. Depending on your preferences, you can select from various tour companies that provide experiences tailored to your needs, whether you prefer a smaller, more intimate tour or a larger vessel with plenty of open deck space.

For those departing from the San Juan Islands, additional options include sea kayak tours and high-speed open craft experiences through companies like San Juan Safaris or San Juan Excursions.