Washington’s coastal waters offer some of the most rewarding boat excursions in America. The San Juan Islands stand out as the prime destination, with whale-watching tours regularly spotting orcas and humpbacks in their natural habitat. A 3-4 hour tour from Lopez Island gives you the best bang for your buck, while the backcountry kayak-sailing trips in North Cascades National Park combine adventure with solitude.
I’m particularly fond of the San Juan Island tours – they’re well-organized, informative, and the crews know exactly where to find marine wildlife. The North Cascades kayak experiences earn my recommendation for their intimate connection with Washington’s pristine wilderness.
Let’s explore the finest boat tours Washington has to offer.
Key Points
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Explore the San Juan Islands’ unique experiences, including sailing and camping tours, as well as whale and orca guided speedboat tours and Olympic National Park day trips.
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Experience the Lopez Island Whale & Orca Boat Tour, a 3-4 hour excursion with a high success rate in spotting whales, including orcas and humpbacks, from May to September.
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Set out on a backcountry kayak-sailing adventure in the North Cascades National Park, a 10-hour small group experience with opportunities to paddle across lakes and sail in pristine waterways.
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Observe a variety of marine life, such as orcas, humpbacks, grays, and minkes, with the guidance of live marine naturalists and comfortable indoor and outdoor viewing platforms.
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Immerse in the natural beauty and tranquility of the Pacific Northwest, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, sailing, and wildlife spotting across scenic landscapes featuring snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and forests.
San Juan Islands: Sailing/Camping Tours
The San Juan Islands, an archipelago off the northwest coast of Washington, offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty through sailing and camping tours.
One highly-rated option is the Orcas Island: Whale and Orca Guided Speedboat Tour, a 3.5-hour excursion that provides travelers with the chance to spot whales and orcas in their natural habitat.
For a more immersive experience, the Seattle: Olympic National Park Day Tour with Ferry Ride takes guests on a full-day adventure, including a ferry ride and exploration of the park’s diverse landscapes.
Visitors can also choose from a variety of multi-day sailing and camping tours, such as those offered by local outfitters.
These longer excursions allow travelers to fully enjoy the islands’ serene beauty, with the opportunity to hike, kayak, and enjoy breathtaking views from the water.
Read our full review: San Juan Islands: Sailing/Camping Tours Review
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Lopez Island: Whale & Orca Boat Tour
A whale and orca boat tour from Lopez Island provides visitors with a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking marine life of the San Juan Islands.
The 3-4 hour tour, priced at $129 per person, departs from the dock in front of the Lopez Islander Resort. With a success rate of over 95% in spotting whales, including orcas, humpbacks, grays, and minkes, this tour offers an incredible chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.
The high-speed whale watching boats are equipped with indoor and outdoor viewing platforms, along with bathrooms and ample space for optimal viewing. A live tour guide and marine naturalist are on board to provide guidance and support, with gratuities for the crew included.
Visitors are encouraged to bring warm clothing, as smoking isn’t allowed on board. With free cancellation up to 3 days in advance and a season that runs from May to September, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the San Juan Islands.
Read our full review: Lopez Island: Whale & Orca Boat Tour Review
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North Cascades National Park: Backcountry Kayak-Sailing Tour
Tucked away in the stunning North Cascades National Park, visitors can embark on an unforgettable backcountry kayak-sailing tour.
This 10-hour small group adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore the park’s remote and pristine waterways. Travelers will paddle across serene lakes and inlets, taking in the breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and ancient forests.
The tour also includes sailing along the tranquil waters, allowing participants to enjoy the peaceful solitude of the wilderness. With a maximum group size of just 12 people, this tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars from 55 reviews, the North Cascades National Park: Backcountry Kayak-Sailing Tour is priced at €169.38 per person.
This once-in-a-lifetime adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the untamed beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Read our full review: North Cascades National Park: Backcountry Kayak-Sailing Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Washington State offers a diverse array of cruises and boat tours. Visitors can explore the serene San Juan Islands on sailing and camping tours, witness the awe-inspiring whales and orcas off Lopez Island, or venture into the rugged North Cascades National Park on a backcountry kayak-sailing tour. These experiences provide an opportunity to take in the natural beauty and rich maritime heritage of the Pacific Northwest.