Seattle · Washington
From May through early October you have a decent shot at seeing orcas, humpbacks, and occasionally minke whales in the waters around the San Juans. June to September is prime time; the water is calmer and the orcas are more reliably in the area. Expect a 3–4 hour trip with about 2 hours actually on the water. The boats are usually heated but the deck can be cold and windy even in summer—layers and a windbreaker are non-negotiable. You’ll likely see at least some marine life; total “whale guarantee” is never real, but the companies will usually offer a rain-check or second trip if you get skunked.
Expect to pay around $150–$220 per adult. Kids are cheaper, but not by much. Book a smaller vessel (under 30 passengers) if you can; you get less crowded rail space and the captain can maneuver into tighter channels. Skip the supersized sightseeing boats that also haul 100+ cruise passengers—they feel more like floating cafeterias than wildlife trips. Bring binoculars, not just your phone; whales surface far enough away that you’ll want magnification. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take something before you leave the dock—the Strait can get choppy fast.