Seattle · Washington
From May through September is prime time; that's when orcas, humpbacks, and sometimes minkes are reliably feeding in the Salish Sea. June and July usually give the best combination of weather and whale sightings. Expect a 3- to 5-hour trip with roughly 2 hours actually on the whale grounds. You'll likely see at least one group of orcas on a decent day, but it's nature, not a show—some trips deliver multiple breaches and spy hops, others just a few distant fins. The boat ride itself can be choppy, especially in the Strait, so pack motion-sickness remedies if you're sensitive.
Expect to pay around $150–$220 per adult depending on boat size, whether it's a weekend, and if they include snacks or a naturalist. Smaller, faster boats that go farther into the islands often cost more but give you better viewing angles and fewer people. Skip the super-cheap harbor cruises that only go an hour or two; they're mostly for photos of the city skyline, not whales. Bring binoculars, layers, sunscreen, and a hat that won't blow away. If you're short on time or prone to seasickness, consider a San Juan Island day trip instead—you'll see whales from shore with far less motion.