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    1. Local experiences/
    2. Deer Harbor, WA/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Whale Watching/
    5. Small-Group Whale Watching Tour from Deer Harbor

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    Small-Group Whale Watching Tour from Deer Harbor

    Spot orcas, humpbacks, and minke whales on an educational cruise led by expert naturalists

    From$125/ person

    Duration

    3-4 Hours

    Includes

    Naturalist guide, binoculars, snacks

    Highlights

    Witness majestic whales and diverse marine wildlife on a small-group cruise through the scenic San Juan Islands. Guided by experienced naturalists, this 3–4-hour tour departs from Deer Harbor and provides comfort and expert insight throughout your adventure.

    1. Cruise among forested islands and rugged coastline
    2. Search for orcas, humpbacks, and minke whales
    3. Learn about local ecology from a naturalist guide
    4. Relax on a comfortable vessel with restroom onboard
    5. Use complimentary binoculars, blankets, and photos
    6. Enjoy snacks and drinks while watching wildlife

    What's Included

    1. Expert naturalist narration
    2. Professional captain and crew
    3. Binoculars, blankets, and tour photos
    4. Snacks, drinks, and onboard restroom

    FAQs

    What should I wear for the tour?

    Dress in layers with a rain jacket, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and closed-toe shoes.


    How long is the whale watching tour?

    Tours last approximately 3–4 hours, including wildlife viewing and narration

    .

    What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

    You may encounter orcas, humpback whales, minke whales, sea lions, seals, porpoises, and seabirds.


    What happens if I don’t see any whales?

    If no whales are spotted, your next tour is free.


    Are the tours family-friendly?

    Yes, the experience is suitable for all ages.


    Is the tour accessible for guests with mobility challenges?

    Please let the marina staff know upon arrival if you need extra time or assistance boarding.


    What happens if the weather is bad?

    If severe weather makes it unsafe to depart, the operator will cancel and offer to reschedule or refund.


    Can I book a private tour?

    Private tours are available for groups or special occasions.


    Are there refreshments or facilities onboard?

    Vessels provide restrooms, light refreshments, and covered seating areas.


    Things to know

    Guests with mobility challenges should inform staff upon arrival so the crew can provide boarding assistance.

    Cancellation policy

    Cancellations made more than 72 hours before departure incur a $15 per person fee; within 72 hours are non-refundable. Private charter cancellations within 10 days of departure are non-refundable. If the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, a full refund or credit will be offered.

    Meeting location

    5164 Deer Harbor Rd, Deer Harbor, WA 98243, United States

    Experience provided by Deer Harbor Charters
    Experience provided by Deer Harbor Charters

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #ADSWWF

    Adult

    $125

    Ages 18+

    0

    Youth

    $115

    Ages 13-17

    0

    Child

    $99

    Ages 3-12

    0

    Private 3-4 Hour Whale Watch - Up to 20 Guests

    $1,950

    0

    Private 3-4 Hour Whale Watch - Up to 30 Guests

    $2,625

    Up to 28 Guests

    0

    Handpicked for you, so you can book with confidence

    • Best local prices

    • Flexible cancellation

    • Private and secure

    Each booking directly supports small businesses in our community.

    4.9 stars• 257 reviews

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    257 reviews•Google Maps

    Travelers consistently rave about the knowledgeable and entertaining naturalist guides like Trey, Natalie, and Trae, who bring genuine passion to every tour. The crews excel at tracking down orcas through their network of other boaters, and many guests spot whales within minutes of departure. What really sets these tours apart is the small boat size, which means everyone gets a front-row view without fighting for position, plus the naturalists capture professional photos with zoom lenses that guests can download for free afterward. The captains, including Nate and Robbie, work seamlessly with their naturalists to create experiences that feel well-choreographed yet authentic. Beyond whales, you're likely to encounter sea otters, bald eagles, harbor seals, and other wildlife while learning fascinating details about the ecosystem. The crew shows genuine care for accommodating all guests, including those with limited mobility, and they're flexible about rescheduling if weather threatens to impact the experience. People call this one of the best activities on Orcas Island, and the 5-star ratings reflect tours that consistently deliver memorable wildlife encounters combined with engaging, often humorous commentary.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    Personable & Knowledgeable Naturalist Trey and the skipper, Robbie, of Palagic II were very good at finding and describing sea life and a couple of pods of Orcas. We saw a Stellar Sea Lion on the move, Otis, a favorite Sea Otter resting in a kelp bed, a pair of Bald Eagles at their huge nest along side a beach full of resting Harbor Seals before boating by a porpoise and then finding the first pod of Orcas. The next pod joined the first just before we left the area. The experience was the highlight of our trip this year to Orcas Island. We will treasure the memory of this excursion for years & hopefully be able to repeat it again on a future trip to the islands.

    Photo of Andy Spicer

    Andy Spicer

    October 4, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Personable & Knowledgeable Naturalist Trey and the skipper, Robbie, of Palagic II were very good at finding and describing sea life and a couple of pods of Orcas. We saw a Stellar Sea Lion on the move, Otis, a favorite Sea Otter resting in a kelp bed, a pair of Bald Eagles at their huge nest along side a beach full of resting Harbor Seals before boating by a porpoise and then finding the first pod of Orcas. The next pod joined the first just before we left the area. The experience was the highlight of our trip this year to Orcas Island. We will treasure the memory of this excursion for years & hopefully be able to repeat it again on a future trip to the islands.

    Photo of Andy Spicer

    Andy Spicer

    October 4, 2025

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