Gallery
Traveler reviews
Find your best option
Choose your package
Select an option to see its live dates and timings.
Highlights
- Begin your journey from downtown Seattle with this half-day guided wildlife and whale watching tour.
- Explore the vibrant Salish Sea ecosystem while spotting orcas, humpbacks, porpoises, sea lions, and bald eagles.
- Enjoy comfort in a heated cabin during your cruise and receive a complimentary photo package as a memento of your adventure.
- Your experience includes guaranteed whale sightings; if whales are not seen, you'll be offered a free return trip on another date.
Your Experience
Cruise through the Salish Sea on a half-day adventure from downtown Seattle. Guided by expert naturalists, this tour offers guaranteed whale sightings as you explore the region's rich marine life.
Getting started
Your journey begins at Pier 69 in Seattle’s waterfront area where check-in and boarding of the high-speed Emerald Clipper take place. After a brief introduction from your onboard naturalist, find comfort in the heated cabin as you set sail for the Salish Sea.
Seattle Wildlife & Whale Watching Tour
This half-day sightseeing cruise takes you through the diverse ecosystem of the Salish Sea, which is integral to shaping the Pacific Northwest. Experienced naturalists lead this tour, highlighting both wildlife and maritime history along the way.
- Orca and humpback whale viewing: Enjoy sightings of resident orcas and migrating humpbacks with a guarantee; if no whales are spotted, you’re entitled to a free return trip.
- Salish Sea ecosystem: Discover porpoises, seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and gray whales that contribute significantly to the local environment.
- Expert narration: Naturalists provide engaging stories and insights about the area’s ecology and waterways, enhancing your experience.
- Heated cabin and photo package: Stay warm in the heated cabin while enjoying complimentary photos to capture memories of your journey.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Half-day guided wildlife and whale watching tour
- Heated cabin to ensure your comfort
- Complimentary photo package included
- Guarantee of whale sightings
- Food and beverages are available for purchase on board.
This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.
Must Know
- Dress in layers with a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable during your 3–5 hour tour of Seattle's marine weather.
- Bring binoculars and a camera for an enhanced wildlife viewing experience, capturing moments from spotting orcas to sea lions.
- A valid photo ID may be requested at boarding; ensure you have it on hand before your departure from Pier 69.
- Please note that outside food and beverages are not allowed onboard the vessel.
- Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping, is strictly prohibited during the cruise for everyone's safety.
Ticket Delivery
- Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
- Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking this experience.
13 answered
Booking FAQs
Dress appropriately for marine weather; layered clothing and a waterproof jacket are recommended. Bring a valid photo ID if requested at boarding. Consider bringing binoculars and a camera for wildlife viewing. Bring any personal medications you may need during the 3–5 hour tour.
Outside food and beverages are not permitted onboard. Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals. Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping, is strictly prohibited on the vessel. Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed onboard.
The vessel is not fully wheelchair accessible; upper deck seating (Comfort, Vista, and VIP classes) requires walking up stairs. Accessible restrooms are available on the main deck. Passengers with limited mobility are advised to select main cabin seating.
Passport is not required for this tour. The tour departs from Pier 69 on Seattle’s waterfront; please arrive early for boarding. Tour duration is 3–5 hours; return time may vary based on wildlife sightings. Onboard food, spirits, and beverages are available for purchase; these are not included in your ticket. Within 48 hours of travel, reservations are non-refundable, non-changeable, and non-cancelable. Whale sightings are guaranteed; if no whales are seen, you will receive a voucher for a complimentary future tour. Complimentary photo package is included with your ticket. Restrooms are available onboard.
Yes, the Seattle Wildlife & Whale Watching Tour is led by expert naturalists who guide you through your whale watching adventure.
You should consider bringing a valid photo ID if it's requested at boarding.
No, you cannot bypass mandatory security checks when boarding the vessel.
It's advised to dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket due to marine weather conditions.
Outside food and beverages are not permitted, but you can purchase them onboard if desired.
Yes, whale sightings are guaranteed. If you don't see any whales, you can enjoy a free return trip on another date.
The tour includes half-day guided wildlife viewing, a heated cabin for comfort, a complimentary photo package, and guaranteed whale sightings.
Pets are not permitted unless they are registered service animals.
The activity data does not provide specific details about what's included in the complimentary photo package; please inquire with the provider for more information.
Reviews
4.5
22 reviewsAll reviews
5
13
4
7
3
2
2
0
1
0