Captain Ken has spent almost 50 years at the helm, and that lifetime of salt-spray wisdom powers every Spirit of Orca tour. With his certified-naturalist eye, professional photography skills, and deep respect for the Salish Sea, h...
Captain Ken and his wife Laurel run an exceptional small-boat operation that consistently delivers memorable wildlife encounters. Their intimate six-person vessel offers a completely different experience from larger tour boats, giving guests flexibility to move around and enjoy unobstructed views. Ken's extensive knowledge of local marine life and geography shines through, and reviewers repeatedly praise his skill at locating orca pods, humpback whales, sea lions, and various seabirds. His passion for the Pacific Northwest waters is contagious. A standout feature is Ken's photography service. He captures professional-quality images throughout the tour and shares them with guests afterward, allowing everyone to stay present in the moment rather than fumbling with cameras. The personalized attention makes this especially great for families and those who prefer a more private experience. Even on the rare occasions when orcas don't appear, guests report having wonderful days thanks to Ken's expertise and the beautiful scenery around Anacortes and the San Juan Islands.
It was amazing to be out in the ocean on a beautiful day with family. Although we did not have the chance to see any whales, we saw other incredible marine life, and the stunning views of Anacourtes were fantastic. Cruising around looking for whales was definitely a treat! A heartfelt thank you to Ken and his lovely wife for sharing their passion with us! Looking forward to going out again, and hopefully the whales will be around for us to enjoy :)
Catriona Kruse
October 12, 2025
It was amazing to be out in the ocean on a beautiful day with family. Although we did not have the chance to see any whales, we saw other incredible marine life, and the stunning views of Anacourtes were fantastic. Cruising around looking for whales was definitely a treat! A heartfelt thank you to Ken and his lovely wife for sharing their passion with us! Looking forward to going out again, and hopefully the whales will be around for us to enjoy :)
Catriona Kruse
October 12, 2025
