Seattle whale watching is the best in the world! But don’t take our word for it…book a whale watching tour with Blue Kingdom to see for yourself!
Seattle, nestled between the stunning Puget Sound and the majestic Olympic Mountains, is not only a haven for coffee lovers and tech enthusiasts, but also a paradise for nature fanatics seeking the thrill of whale watching. The city’s proximity to the rich marine ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest makes it an ideal destination for an unforgettable whale watching experience.
Only an hour and a half a way from the bustling city life, Anacortes is a must see coastal town within the greater Seattle area, and it is the best location to embark on your whale watching adventure! Anacortes is fittingly referred to as the “Gateway to the San Juan Islands” as it serves as a key departure location for tourists looking to explore the islands and sea.
Check out our location page to learn more about where in Anacortes to find us!
A Symphony of Nature
Whale watching in the Salish Sea is like attending a grand symphony where nature takes center stage. What exactly is the Salish Sea you might ask? The Salish Sea is the greater body of water surrounding the Seattle area, including the Puget Sound, Strait of Juan de Fuca, Strait of Georgia, and series of waterways weaving between Washington’s San Juan Islands and British Columbia’s Gulf Islands. These waters are home to an incredible diversity of marine life, including orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, and minke whales. These gentle giants navigate the cold, nutrient-rich waters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for lucky onlookers.
We believe the Salish is hands down the best place in the world to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat! The mountain ranges and islands create an epic backdrop of unparalleled beauty that makes whale watching in the Salish Sea such a unique and breathtaking experience.
Seattle Whale Watching Season
While Seattle offers whale watching opportunities throughout the year, the best time to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures is during the peak season, which typically runs from April to October. This period coincides with the annual migration of humpback and gray whales, providing an increased likelihood of sightings. There are also more boats on the water during these warmer months, which means more eyes searching for whales. However, fun fact: orca whales don’t actually migrate! The orca populations we see roam from Northern California to Alaska year round, so on any given day they may be present in the Salish Sea.
A Day on the Water
Imagine a day spent cruising the Salish Sea, the crisp sea breeze in your hair, and the anticipation of witnessing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. As the boat glides through the waves, the vastness of the ocean becomes a canvas for the spectacle about to unfold. The experienced guides share their knowledge, pointing out diverse marine life, from seals and sea lions to bald eagles soaring overhead. All of sudden, you see a spout in the distance and know you’re about to make memories you’ll cherish for the rest of your life encountering whales in the wild. This is why you made sure to book a whale watching tour during your visit to the Seattle area!
The Unpredictable Beauty of Nature
While whale watching tours in Seattle boast a high success rate, it’s essential to remember that nature is unpredictable. Each excursion is a unique adventure, and the thrill of the unknown adds an element of excitement to the experience. Whether you witness a pod of orcas breaching or catch a glimpse of a might humpback whale’s tail, every moment on the Salish Sea is a treasure.
