Anacortes: Whale Watching Zodiac Tour & Wildlife Sighting

Summary

Whale watching by Zodiac from Anacortes with wild encounters

You’ll zip across open water from Anacortes in a Zodiac boat with a local guide, bundled up in cruiser suits and gloves as you search for whales and spot eagles or sea lions along the way. Expect laughter, salty air, maybe even goosebumps when you hear that first whale breathe nearby — it sticks with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

You know that first slap of cold air when you step onto the dock in Anacortes? That’s how it started for me — eyes watering a bit, hands jammed in my pockets until our guide (her name was Jamie) handed me this thick cruiser suit. I laughed because I looked like a marshmallow, but honestly, I was grateful once we got moving. The Zodiac boat felt smaller than I’d pictured, low to the water and kind of thrilling before we even left the harbor.

It’s loud at first — gulls overhead, engines rumbling — but as we sped out past the breakwater, everything changed. The San Juan Islands showed up all misty blue on the horizon and Jamie pointed out a bald eagle perched on a snag like it owned the place. She knew every little inlet and told us stories about orcas passing through here for generations. I tried to take a photo but mostly just ended up with blurry water drops on my lens (classic me). The main keyword here really is whale watching tour — that’s what everyone wants, right? But there was so much more: sea lions barking off some rocky point, porpoises darting alongside us for half a minute.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would get when Jamie cut the engine. We drifted for a while, just waiting. Someone whispered they saw something — then suddenly there was this exhale sound, like someone letting out their breath after holding it too long. A humpback surfaced maybe twenty yards away. I swear my heart skipped. Even Jamie grinned wide and said she never gets tired of that moment. It’s not always guaranteed (she made that clear), but when it happens you feel tiny in the best way.

The ride back felt different — faces stung pink from wind, everyone swapping stories about what they’d seen or missed (“Did you see that minke?” “No! Where?”). My gloves smelled faintly of neoprene and salt. We peeled off our suits at the dock and I kept thinking about that hush on the water. Still do sometimes when things are noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching zodiac boat tour

• Check in 30 minutes before departure
• Get fitted with cruiser suit
• Board zodiac-style vessel
• Search for whales and marine wildlife
• Enjoy views of San Juan Islands
• Experience wildlife encounters on water

Top questions

What is the minimum age for this Anacortes whale watching tour?

The minimum age is 6 years old; children five and under are not permitted.

Are cruiser suits provided on the Zodiac whale watching tour?

Yes, cruiser suits, hats, and gloves are included to keep you warm and dry during the trip.

How early should I arrive before departure?

You should check in at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Is this whale watching tour suitable during pregnancy?

No, this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Can people with back or neck injuries join this tour?

No, travelers with spinal injuries or similar health issues should not participate.

What wildlife might be seen besides whales?

You may see porpoises, sea lions, eagles, and other marine birds along with whales.

Is public transportation available near the departure point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby in Anacortes.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this whale watching tour.

What’s included

Your day includes check-in at the Anacortes office where you’ll get fitted with a warm cruiser suit plus hat and gloves before heading out by Zodiac boat to search for whales and other wildlife with your guide — all gear provided so you can just focus on spotting those dorsal fins (and keeping your camera dry).