Classic Whale Watch & Wildlife Tour from Roche Harbor, WA

San Juan Island Outfitters248 Reuben Memorial DriveRoche Harbor, WA 98250
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Starting at
$125.00 $115.00
Total Price: $124.38 (USD)
You Save: $10.00
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Overview

This Classic Whale Watch and Wildlife Tour is great for families! Go in search of orcas, humpback whales, seals, eagles and more aboard the 55-foot Sea Lion vessel. With marine naturalists on board, all of your curious questions will be answered. Plus, there is a field guide library and children’s books on board so kids are sure to be entertained.

up to 4 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

  • The Sea Lion vessel offers heated inside cabin areas and can take out up to 40 passengers at a time.
  • A field guide library and children's books available on board for the kids.
  • Tour duration is about 3 to 4 hours.
  • San Juan Island is accessed via the WA State Ferry that departs from Anacortes, WA.

Description

Cruise the nutrient-rich waters of the Salish Sea on a classic whale watching and wildlife tour from Roche Harbor. This 3–4 hour guided excursion offers exceptional opportunities to observe orcas, humpback whales, harbor seals, sea lions, porpoises, and bald eagles in their natural habitat. Led by professional marine naturalists, each trip focuses on ethical wildlife viewing and education.

Departing from the historic Roche Harbor Marina, the tour travels through the Haro Strait and surrounding waterways known for some of the highest whale-sighting rates in the region, especially between June and September. The vessel offers indoor and outdoor seating, a heated cabin, and onboard restrooms, making the experience comfortable for guests of all ages.

Along the way, travelers will enjoy scenic views of rugged coastlines, pine-dotted islands, and iconic landmarks like Turn Point Light. Marine guides provide real-time interpretation using field guides and onboard resources, offering insight into whale behavior, migration patterns, and conservation.

This wildlife tour is family-friendly, accessible, and designed to make marine science engaging for all ages. With a wildlife sighting guarantee and a focus on sustainability, it provides both excitement and educational value in one immersive Pacific Northwest experience.
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Classic Whale Watch & Wildlife Tour from Roche Harbor is located at San Juan Island Outfitters248 Reuben Memorial DriveRoche Harbor, WA 98250
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Frequently Asked Questions about Classic Whale Watch & Wildlife Tour from Roche Harbor

Where does this tour depart?

This Classic Whale Watch & Wildlife Tour departs from Roche Harbor located at 248 Reuben Memorial Drive, Roche Harbor, WA 98250.

Is the tour appropriate for children?

Yes, it is great for all ages. There are also children's books on board for the kids. Parents of children under 2 years of age are asked to stay in the windowed, heated cabin or use a "wear on" baby carrier for safety reasons.

Is there a bathroom?

Yes, the Sea Lion vessel has a large marine restroom on board.

What should I wear?

Temperatures are significantly cooler on the water so warm layers and flat shoes with a rubber bottom, such as tennis shoes, are recommended. Other recommended items include a hat, rain jacket or windbreaker, and gloves (ideally for spring and fall tours).

What should I bring?

The following items are recommended: sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, camera, water bottle (no glass please), and snacks. Alcohol, tobacco and marijuana products are prohibited.

Will the vessel accommodate a person in a wheelchair?

Due to safety reasons, the vessel can accommodate the person but not the wheelchair because all seats must be anchored to the boat itself. If the person can stand, walk up two steps on the outside of boat, then one on the inside, the tour operator will do their best to pre-board them. If you need assistance, please note your request in the comment section above when booking your reservation.

What is the best month to see the whales?

Peak season is considered the summer months of mid-June through early September. During this time, you will see whales (orcas, humpbacks, greys and/or minkes) on over 90% of these tours. There are whales in the San Juan Islands year round, but much less predictably outside of those summer months.

What will I see on this tour?

This tour offers breathtaking scenery and marine wildlife as you cruise in search for orcas, whales, seals, bald eagles, sea lions, porpoises, and much more.

Are whale sightings guaranteed?

While sightings of marine wildlife are guaranteed, whale sightings are not guaranteed. However, 20 years of sightings data shows that you will have a 90% chance of seeing whales during the peak months of June – September.

How do you get to San Juan Islands?

San Juan Island is accessed via the Washington State Ferry that departs from Anacortes, WA. Anacortes is an easy 2-hour drive north of downtown Seattle. The ferry schedule changes seasonally and the ferry departs at specific types typically around 9 am.