| Regions
Seattle
Islands
North Cascades
Gateway
Plateau Region
The Palouse
Volcano Country
Wine Country
Coastal Region
Peninsulas
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Island Cruises and Whale Watching |
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Wonderful hours of cruising, plus spectacular shore and water vistas,
are interspersed with landings and sightseeing visits along the way from
Seattle through the San Juan Islands and on to Victoria, BC. Combine the
relaxation of boating (as only a private yacht can) in some of the most
unspoiled and beautiful natural environment with the adventure of port
calls in vibrant, historic towns.
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Choose your destination... whether it's
winding your way up the Guemes Channel or through the pristine beauty
and serenity of the San Juan Island paradise or cruising to the awesome
splendor of Deception Pass with its' rock hewn cliffs and rushing,
swirling, eddies.
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Whale watching is a rewarding activity out
of Anacortes Washington. Spring, Summer, and Fall are special months in
the San Juans with all the wildlife. Killer Whales, also known as Orcas,
come close in to the San Juan Islands beginning in the spring and linger
until October. This makes them very accessible to view by boat. 90
Killer Whales live and play in these waters throughout these seasons.
The whales in the San Juan Islands have been the subject of local
scientific study for the last 30 years and we have learned much about
the Orcas.
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The
San Juan Island resident Killer Whales are fish and squid eaters. Their
favorite food is salmon. Killer Whales are the largest member of the
dolphin family. They can grow up to ten tons in weight and 30' in
length. Their life span ranges to 100 years. They stay in families which
are called pods. The 3 resident pods that live in the San Juan Islands
are J, K, & L. Each whale is distinguishable by a natural making at
the base of its dorsal fin called a saddle patch. On many whale watching
excursions the naturalist can tell you exactly which whale you are
looking at, its family, and approximate age. Most tour companies even
have photo identification charts onboard.
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The San Juan Islands are also home to many
Transient Killer Whales. These differ from the Resident Killer Whales in
several ways. First Transient Killer Whales travel in small pods of 3 - 8
whales. The transients are very shy and it is not unusual to find
Transient Killer Whales traveling alone. Second, Transient Whales eat meat
such as harbor seals and porpoise. Seeing San Juan Island Killer whales in
their natural habitat is an exhilarating, magical experience you will
never forget.
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At this time of year sightings are almost certain and most
whale watch companies have spotters who that locate the whales early in
the day and follow their progress. This enables the tour boats to locate
the whales easily. You are also very likely to see other marine mammals at
this time. Porpoise, seals, Bald Eagles and a multitude of other birds are
common in the San Juan's. Not only do most whale watch companies have a
naturalist onboard, they often feature underwater hydra-phones which allow
you to listen to the whales as well. One of the vessels is the 100' Mystic
Sea which runs out of Anacortes, Washington. The Mystic Sea departs Cap
Sante Marina, Dock A at 11 AM and returns at 4 PM. Coffee and tea are
complimentary. Bring your own picnic lunch. Reservations suggested. Please
call 1-800-308-9387.
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Attractions
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Fantasy Cruises Inc
offers 5 day, 7 day, and 8 day itineraries including the
Islands and mainland destinations |
Mystic Sea Charters
Offers whale watching and group cruises out of Anacortes and
from Seattle to Blaine |
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GoNorthwest.com
- Puget Sound |
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Restaurants
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Lodging
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