Pacific Whale Watch Association

Our Boats

The Pacific Whale Watch Association has some of the safest and most modern long-range boats plying the Sound and Straits. Unlike other whale watch destinations in the world, each one of our member operators provides a unique experience from a wide range of vessels. large and small. Whether you're looking for an exciting open Zodiac-style boat, the comfort of a larger vessel, or something in-between, or a top-of-the-line single or double sea kayak, there's a PWWA member company that’s just right for you!

PWWA boats are also some of the greenest -- most are equipped with systems that increase fuel efficiency and dramatically decrease emissions and underwater noise, hull designs that leave smaller wakes and reduce shore erosion, and four-stroke outboard engines that don't require oil burn.  Many operators are becoming "carbon-nuetral," reducing wherever we can, offsetting what we can't, doing everything possible to be part of the solution of climate change, not part of the problem.  And all of our operators support a wide range of important conservation efforts throughout the Salish Sea, contributing financially and materially to Southern Resident orca recovery, salmon restoration, clean marina programs, and to research institutions working to protect the Sound and Straits and all creatures within.  As in other sensitive marine habitats around the world, PWWA boats are also the first likely responders to an oil spill here, which according to NOAA Fisheries is the number one most immediate threat to the long-term survivability of our resident orcas.  

Plus, PWWA has the most experienced and skilled captains and crew anywhere in the region, all of whom are Coast Guard-certified and emergency safety trained, every one completely dedicated to sustainable wildlife viewing. And yet providing lifelong memories to passengers, a few thrills here and there, teaching them what we know and what we love, turning them into lifelong conservationists.

Find a boat or kayak tour that works for you, have some fun, help some whales.

 

The Peniel is a beautifully maintained pilot house sloop built in Seattle in 1956 of Yellow Cedar on Oak. Auxiliary power is an 85 HP Diesel giving us a cruising speed of 7.5 knots. 

 

Annie A  /  The spacious 50-foot charter boat Annie A is one of the largest charter boats in the Puget Sound. She is modern, fast and can easily accomodate 25 people. A galley, free coffee and comfortable heads will make your trip more enjoyable.  For your safety, the boat is regularly inspected and approved by the Coast Guard.

 

Very comfortable and stable single or tandem kayaks for half-day or full-day trips. Safety-trained leaders. Anacortes Kayak Tours offers several choices of sea kayaking adventures to choose from. With both families, and seasoned travelers in mind, we have created a variety of sea kayak tours to match your needs, budget, and available time.

 

BC Luna  / Our 45-foot, partly covered Zodiac BC Luna has been perfectly designed for the weather of the west coast. She offers one indoor and one outdoor seating per person. Rated #1 Boat Design (ISO6185-3:200) / Popular Zodiac Style, Category B (24-mile Offshore rating) / Largest and most spacious 12-passenger vessel / Long range and all-weather design / Ultimate Comfort with three distinctive seating areas: Indoor heated cabin / Front- outdoor seating for thrill seekers / Back- outdoor seating for a smooth and luxurious / Freely move between seating areas / On-board Washroom / Environmentally Friendly Technology / Ecologically Designed.

BC Tika  /  This open-style Zodiac model is the first of its kind, being twice as long as any other zodiac model to date, but with only 12 passengers maximum on each trip. The extra length makes this open zodiac incredibly smooth in all weather conditions! The other modifaction that this vessel has is that it seats 2 people per seat, whereas other zodiac models sit 3 people per seat. This creates a huge walkway around the boat allour 45ft partly covered zodiac BC Luna has been perfectly designed for the weather of the west coast. She offers one indoor and one outdoor seating per person.

 

The Island Whaler  /  In 2004, when Captain Brett was just plain old Brett, he was plagued by a reoccurring dream of a very unusual boat. He kept dreaming and dreaming about this silly boat, and he couldn’t figure out why. He continued having this dream over the course of about nine months. Finally, at the encouragement of Terica, the next time he had the dream he found the first piece of paper he could and drew a picture of that boat. Sure enough, that was the last time he had the dream. At the time, plain old Brett was in his 10th or 11th year of building boats at Nichols Brothers Boat Builders, and thought he might be doing that for the rest of his life. But he started getting an itch to get his captain’s license. And a year or so later he did. About six months after he got his captain’s license, he took Terica on an hour and a half drive from Freeland, WA to Anacortes to get his Nextel Phone fixed. It was strange- all of the Nextel Stores in Island County & Skagit County were closed that day – EXCEPT the one in Anacortes!  On the way into the Nextel store, Captain Brett nearly drove off the road- There – in the parking lot of all places – at Island Adventures was the BOAT– from Brett’s Dream!  It had been years since he thought of that drawing. Terica told him he had to go in there and see if he could get a job – and luckily Shane Aggergaard hired Brett to run whale watching tours for him. It was his first official Captain’s job, and he was certain that was what HIS dream was all about. After the season, however, Island Adventures decided to sell that boat, and that began Deception Pass Tours. After searching for years to find the drawing, they finally did. One look and you’ll be amazed at the similarities between it and the Island Whaler.  Both are such unusual designs. Today, over 100,000 people have taken a Deception Pass Tour, and contributed to the fulfillment of one man’s dream.

The Squito  /  The USCG-certified Squito is the first whale watch boat in the San Juan Islands. It takes as many as 30 guests, with comfortable inside seating as well as outside viewing decks make a great all-weather family boat.

The Pelagic  /  The Pelagic is a 36' vessel that is licensed for 20 passengers, We try not to exceed 15 guests for everyone's comfort. Smaller groups per trip mean more personal contact and a more enjoyable experience for you. Pelagic is stable, fast and roomy.  Pelagic is equipped with a modern cleaner burning diesel meeting the latest EPA standards. Deer Harbor Charters offers two whale watching boats leaving from Deer Harbor Resort and Rosario Resort, convenient locations on Orcas Island.

 

Eagle Wing / Gold Wing / Serengeti / 4EverWild  /  High performance, thrilling, fun, safety-certified, smooth, & comfortable = great memories! Over stuffed seats, on board washrooms, room to move around, & premium extras! NEW advanced “scarab” and “catamaran” hull design leaves a much smaller wake (wave) to reduce shore erosion and is more fuel efficient. Our Arneson surface propulsion system (Goldwing) is more quiet than rain falling on water. Our above-water exhaust system (Goldwing) provides a more quiet environment for marine mammals. EU-approved diesel marine Volvo Penta engines. EPA-approved Suzuki 4-stroke gasoline marine outboard engines — no oil burn (compared to 2 stroke).

The Supercat  /  The Five Star Supercat brought a new level of excellence to whale watching in Victoria. Custom-designed and constructed using state-of-the-art technology, the Supercat is a high-speed, deluxe catamaran built specifically with whale watching in mind, offering our guests levels of safety, comfort, speed and stability unmatched by single-hulled vessels. The Supercat accommodates 40 passengers and features on-board washroom facilities, covered, out of the weather seating and elevated viewing platforms creating a level of comfort and convenience to satisfy adventurers of all ages. Our crews of experienced, trained naturalists are on board to guide and assist you throughout the journey. Come and experience the thrills and excitement of whale watching the way it was meant to be… aboard the Five Star Supercat!

 

The Island Explorer 3  /  At 101 feet long with an upper viewing deck and the largest bow pulpit in the industry, The Island Explorer 3 has more than enough space for everyone to have a front row spot at the rail.  Both the upper and lower deck are fully walkaround, which allows effortless movement around the boat and great viewing. Because of the new viewing distance requirements, smaller low profile vessels do not have the same great experience as our guests have on the Island Explorer 3. The lower enclosed cabin has four entrance doors making for quick access to the lower outside decks. Her size and stability enables guests to safely move around throughout the trip. The large windows in the lower heated cabin ensure that you will not miss a thing if you choose to escape from the elements into the comfy new interior, or if you step inside to grab some lunch at our snack bar counter. The Island Explorer 3 also has a 42" flat screen panel for slide shows, presentations, videos, whale identification lessons and for the GPS software that shows our day’s route. There are two on board (clean!) restrooms to add more comfort to your tour. Guests will also enjoy the yacht style booth seating inside, plenty of outside seating and over 400 feet of rail viewing space for watching whales and other wildlife. The comfort and quality of the Island Explorer 3 will maximize your whale watching experience!

The Island Explorer 4  /  The newest addition to the Island Adventures Whale Watching fleet. The Island Explorer 3 is 85 feet long, 22 feet wide, and Coast Guard certified for 126 passengers. She has upper and lower walk around viewing decks with 300 feet of rail viewing space, as well as indoor and outdoor seating and two restrooms onboard. She is currently running five-to-six-hour guaranteed whale watching trips from Port Angeles, including spectacular enounters with the resurgent humpback whale population of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

The Island Caper  /  The P/V Island Caper is the largest boat dedicated to whale watching in the Pacific Northwest.  She is also one of the most comfortable tour boats on the West Coast. That is why PAC 95 "Young America" team hired us to be their VIP boat during the America's Cup sailboat races held in San Diego in 1995.  We took thousands of their corporate sponsors and guests out to watch the races. The Island Caper can handle groups up to 133. Anywhere from 20 to 120 passengers is ideal for day trips. She is an extremely stable vessel and all of our cruises are within the calm, protected waters of the San Juan Islands and the Canadian Gulf Islands. At 110 feet long and 22 feet wide, the Island Caper is a very stable cruising ship. Traveling at her normal cruise of 13.5 knots, a lot of water can be covered in a day. The main deck has full walk around decks and two enclosed cabins. Both cabins have excellent outside viewing. One cabin has sofas, easy chairs, and an entertainment center (iPod, CD player, stereo cassette deck, top quality speakers, big screen color TV , DVD player and VCR). The other cabin has tables and chairs for dining. The upper deck has plenty of seating and the forward 1/3 is covered with a sunshade offering outdoor viewing of some of the most spectacular scenes to be found. The Caper and crew are licensed by the United States Coast Guard and fully insured. We have been cruising the waters of Washington, British Columbia, and Southeast Alaska since 1962 and would love to share our world with you.  Island Caper Details and Specifications: Purchased 1990 Glouster, Massachusetts. Brought to Bellingham on it's own keel thru the Panama Canal. It took thirty-two 24-hour days. 110 feet long, built entirely out of aluminum. 22 feet of beam, 6 feet of draft. Main power 3-12v.71 G.M.C. diesel engines, 750 horsepower each. Top speed 21 knots, cruise speed 13.5 knots.

The Legacy  /  Our 30' vessel the Legacy, built in 2007, is the perfect whale and wildlife viewing platform.  Passengers enjoy great visibility and comfort with wide open views, comfortable seating and a very safe, smooth ride. She is powered by a clean burning and efficient Yanmar 315hp diesel engine. These are the new generation of marine propulsion systems, having none of the noise, smoke or smell associated with older diesel powered vessels. She is equipped with the latest in navigation, safety equipment and the best communications systems available to help us stay in touch with our extensive whale sightings network. Her accommodations include a clean, full head or "bathroom," inside and outside seating for all passengers, binoculars for all and a small library of local wildlife books. She is simply the best small boat and wildlife viewing platform available in the San Juan islands. Join us aboard the Legacy and see all the Islands have to offer!

The Peregrine  /  Captain Jim Maya's boat, the Peregrine, gives tourists a comfortable ride on this whale watching excursion in the San Juan Islands. She is a 2007, 30-foot Glacier Bay catamaran and is the standard for boats for her size.  Her twin catamaran hulls give her tremendous safety in all seas, stability, and a very smooth ride. She has twin 150-hp eco-friendly Yamaha four-stroke engines for a dependable, quiet, warm and dry ride.  She also has exceptional visibility for all passengers at all time. Her great speed gives her a wider range than other boats and as a result, passengers get to see more wildlife.  And she has a full head (bathroom).

 

The Mystic Sea  /  The classic 100-foot Mystic Sea is a fast, ocean-rated, USCG-certified vessel.  She offers a heated, enclosed aft deck, onboard food service, and excellent inside and outside viewing.  Our home ports are Anacortes and Langley. Our ports of call are Seattle, Everett, Whidbey Island, La Conner, Deception Pass, San Juan Island, Lopez Island, Orcas Island, Bellingham and Blaine. Outside Viewing: Outside deck with 42" high rails / 150 feet of outside open rail space / Main Cabin Amenities: Heated Cabins / Booth seating for 30 passengers / Two restrooms / Aft Deck Amenities: Enclosed and heated / Table and chair seating for up to 40 passengers / Frank's Onboard Food Service / Bar, sink, microwave, refrigerator and buffet area / Outside and underwater cameras / DVD player / PA system.

The Orcas Express  /  The 56' Orcas Express has a spacious, bright and airy interior with 46 comfortable contour Norwegian-made seats with an additional four jump seats for a total of 50. Inside our heated cabin, there are seats at tables for 36. The other 14 seats are open. The outside has 60 feet of open deck to walk around. When "Free Willy II" was filmed in the San Juan Islands, Capt. Dan Wilk and Denise Wilk were chosen to play the "Coastal Marine Patrol." We were thrilled to work with the great film crew, and even had the privilege of taking the cast and crew out for a whale watch, with some seeing their first orcas in the wild.

The Orca Spirit II  /  The Orca Spirit II will provide your party with the ultimate in luxury, stability and comfort. With a passenger capacity of 200, it is able to offer a wide variety of tours including, whale watching, dinners, weddings, harbour cruises, or special event charters — the options are endless.
  
The Orca Spirit  /  Launched in 1996, the 45-passenger Orca Spirit continues to be the pride of Victoria’s whale watching fleet. This signature vessel sets the company standard with the highest level of both customer comfort and safety.

The Pacific Explorer I  /  A beautiful vessel with all the amenities, the Pacific Explorer I offers the ultimate in customer comfort. The superbly designed interior features full length tinted windows, indoor nook style seating for 50 passengers including a kitchen and bar service area.

Zodiacs  /  For the adventurous at heart, 12-passenger Zodiacs are recommended for an exhilarating experience complete with sea spray! Designed for high speed and quick turns these boats are known around the world for durability, seaworthiness and performance.
 
Orca Spirit has just acquired Great Pacific Adventures, which has been operating whale watching tours from the Inner Harbour of Victoria, BC since 1995.  Fully insured, bonded and Transport Canada-certified, Great Pacific Adventures takes pride in its reputation for maintaining the highest level of customer satisfaction and reliability. Our whale watching vessels are equipped with the finest high-tech safety equipment available, as passenger safety is our number one priority. Our guides/skippers are safety certified by Transport Canada and are required to hold valid first aid, and radio tickets. Each adventure is complimented by the expertise of our local marine naturalists and biologists, providing commentary and educational information about our marine eco-systems and their unique inhabitants. As well, our boats are equipped with hydrophones to hear the whales talk! 

The King Salmon  /  The King Salmon is a West Coast built 45-foot ocean cruiser with capacity of up to 47 passengers. Choose your adventures from the comfort of our heated cabin, or from one of two outside viewing decks. An on board washroom facility and coffee and tea service ensures passengers a comfortable experience.

 

Zodiacs  /  Our custom built Titan brand aluminum-hulled Zodiac RHIB (rigid hull inflatable) marine vessels are the industry standard and the safest on the ocean. Each boat carries 12 passengers, and offers an exhilarating ride for those who want a true Great Pacific Adventure. All passengers are fitted with a Coast Guard approved full cruiser suit to provide comfort, safety and protection from the elements. Twin Suzuki 4-stroke motors guarantee an environmentally friendly power source for traveling to and from your whale watching adventure! We even have on-board washroom facilities for passenger comfort.

The Blackfish II  / The Blackfish II is our 38ft aluminum catamaran that is an incredible blend of comfort and thrill. She carries up to 26 passengers, comes with two decks and a incredible view from the roof.  With a top speed of 42 knots (that is almost 50 mph) the Blackfish is easily twice as fast as the average whale watching boat and the fastest whale watching boat in the San Juans!  You will find seating for everyone inside and out as well as a full restroom. A full stereo system and hydrophone for listening to the whales. The Blackfish II is great for whale watching and crabbing charters.

 

The Triton  /  The Triton is a 32-foot aluminum chamber boat. This is the toughest, safest and one of the fastest of its kind. This boat was designed primarily for military applications and was built locally in Bellingham, WA. With seats for up to 13 people, heated cabin and full restroom making this an ideal boat for any experience. The Triton has a covered back deck, front deck and a large cabin window making viewing whales easy no matter where you are on the boat!

Ocean Magic and Ocean Magic II  /  This is the ideal vessel for those who prefer a more comfortable marine travel experience. Able to keep pace with the zodiacs, The Ocean Magic and Ocean Magic II are 62-foot aluminum express cruisers capable of cruising at 30 knots (55 km/hour) and can carry up to 74 passengers. These high-speed vessels are made entirely of welded aluminum to provide stability and comfort. The Ocean Magic fleet feature outdoor viewing areas, heated passenger seating areas, washrooms and a pantry stocked with hot and cold drinks and light snacks for purchase. Photography enthusiasts may prefer the upper viewing deck to get a different perspective for their shots. Mid-ship seating is open to provide a generous view from inside the cabin while the forward cabin is enclosed behind large glass windows and serves as a warm-up area during cooler weather. This vessel is also particularly popular because of the indoor seating that allows our guests to stay protected from inclement weather. Specifically built for whale watching and eco-adventures, the Ocean Magic vessels were designed with awareness of the whale’s communication styles and have a low sound profile to protect that environment. Also, with a larger passenger count the carbon footprint of individual passengers is reduced. Length: 61 feet, 10 inches / Beam: 18 feet, 4 inches / Construction: All-aluminum RHIB-derivative with double-walled sides plus buoyancy collar / Designer: John Simpson, working with Naiad Inflatables / Builder: Sylte Shipyard, Maple Ridge / Power: Twin Caterpillar 3406E diesels / Gears: TwinDisc MGX5114 2:1, electronically controlled / Propulsion: Arneson ASD12 surface drives with five-bladed Nibral 35-inch by 37-inch propellers.

 

Zodiacs  /  HIGH SPEED ADVENTURE! The Zodiacs are the most adventurous option for marine travel and are perfectly suited to the thrill seeking types out there!  Light yet extremely stable due to the low centre of gravity and wide tubes, the Zodiacs are more manoeuvrable and use up to 40% less horsepower and 50% less fuel than traditional boats while remaining one of the safest vessels in the harbour. With a fleet of 10 Zodiacs, Prince of Whales offers a wide variety of departure times, making it easy to plan your day. Large groups can also be accommodated. Each Zodiac carries 12 passengers, and each seat has storage underneath it for purses and backpacks. Zodiac guests are encouraged to bring cameras with them, but may want to carry them wrapped in waterproof material or plastic bags.

The Chilkat Express  /  The Chilkat Express is the fastest passenger vessel in the Pacific Northwest.  The 63' state-of-the-industry foilkat was designed in New Zealand as a high-speed ferry for southeast Alaska, and at a top speed of 55 knots or about 63 miles per hour can take up to 63 passengers to the San Juan Islands and into the quiet company of whales in a little over an hour. This allows Puget Sound Express to offer the first-ever half-day whale watch trip to the Seattle metropolitan area. The Chilkat features spacious, comfortable indoor seating and large windows, ADA-approved restrooms, outside viewing decks, television monitors with GPS mapping and original wildlife imagery, and a great galley/cafe -- which of course also serves up our signature, freshly baked "blueberry buckle" on every trip.  Outside, it's a menagerie of whales, porpoises, dolphins, seals, sea lions, otters, shorebirds and many other species of marine life, And since the Chilkat is a jet boat with no propellers, it's also one of the quietest vessels in the whale watch fleet.

 

The Glacier Spirit  /  The Glacier Spirit is considered by many in the Pacific Northwest, the most beautiful and comfortable boat in the whale watch fleet. Passengers love the comfort of the seating, and the large viewing windows. There is a snack bar, along with a full galley, two restrooms, and outside viewing decks around the entire cabin. One of the more interesting things that we have aboard is a hydrophone. This is an underwater microphone that hears the orca whales talking. We pipe this over the public address system so everyone can hear the chatter. Glacier Spirit has been in service since 1996.

The Red Head  /  Since the locations of many animals are determined by the tides, weather, time of day, breeding cycles and food supply, Salt Spring Adventure Co. does not confine its journeys to one particular route. The speed and maneuverability of its specially-built 12-passenger Zodiac and the daily observations of our crew, make a tour with Salt Spring Adventure Co. a great way to experience the nature and splendor of Gulf Islands.

 

 

 

SALT SPRING ADVENTURE CO. LTD

Zodiac  /  Since the locations of many animals are determined by the tides, weather, time of day, breeding cycles and food supply, Salt Spring Adventure Co. does not confine its journeys to one particular route. The speed and maneuverability of its specially-built 12-passenger Zodiac and the daily observations of its crew, make a tour with Salt Spring Adventure Co. a great way to experience the nature and splendor of Gulf Islands. Every journey truly is unique.

 

The Victoria Star  /  The Victoria Star is 100-ft long with indoor & outdoor seating, full bar & PA system. It's perfect for dinner parties, cocktail cruises, wedding events, high school grad cruises and more!  Licensed for 149 passengers, making her the largest charter boat in Northwest Washington.

The Viking Star  /  The Viking Star is 60-ft motor yacht with indoor dining for 36 passengers & beer/wine service. It's your choice for smaller, more intimate dinner cruises and special event celebrations, as well as full day trips to the San Juan Islands.

The Salish Sea  /  The Salish Sea is a 50-ft cruiser with indoor seating for 42, plus open air upper level.  If you need to get your group out to the San Juan Islands, the Salish Sea is your boat!

The Odyssey  /  The Odyssey is 65’ long and is a USCG-certified and inspected vessel.  This vessel has great walk around decks on two levels with padded seating. You will cruise in complete comfort with great visibility from all areas. Our outside wrap around decks offer both covered areas for protection from the occasional rain shower, and open areas to soak up the sun. Inside areas include two spacious heated salons with carpeting, lounge-style seating, large windows for excellent viewing, a snack bar, wildlife library, two restrooms, four staterooms, and a fully equipped galley. The Odyssey also has a great sound system with nine speakers and a hydrophone (an under water microphone) for listening to orca vocalizations. In addition to her twin engines, she has three water-tight bulkhead doors for the ultimate in passenger safety. She is licensed for 97 passengers, but we rarely fill her to more than 80% capacity to assure the comfort of our passengers.

The MV Sea Hawk  /  Join us for a cruise on the 42’ MV Sea Hawk.  Our USCG-certified 24-passenger vessel departs from one of the best locations in the San Juan Islands for whale watch departures, Roche Harbor, San Juan Island. Our low guide-to-client ratio means your naturalist and captain are on deck with you in person, and our naturalists are considered the best in the industry. 90% sighting rate during peak season (May through September) April and October can be good months as well, depending on the salmon runs which govern the whale’s movements.

Sea Kayaks  /  Very comfortable and stable single or tandem kayaks for half-day or full-day trips. Safety-trained leaders. Our tours by kayak are designed for paddlers of all abilities, including those who have never paddled before. Our exclusive launching facility and kayak docks provide safe and easy access to the water, and our guides have extensive experience working with kids.

 

The Natsilane  /  Join Captain Hobbes Buchanan aboard Natsilane, a 30’ Albin fast-express cruiser, with inside and outside seating, a heated cabin, restroom, and warm courtesy jackets if needed.  A six-passenger limit assures you the full attention of the Captain for an intimate experience on the water!  Natsilane offers you the comfort of a warm cabin or an exhilerating wind-in-your-hair way to experience the ecosystems and wildlife of the spectacular San Juan Islands!

MV Sea Lion  /  Our whale watching boat MV Sea Lion is a 55-foot, new and fast vessel with walk around deck and bathroom. With only 40 or fewer guests aboard, there's plenty of room at the rails or in the windowed cabin for everyone. Knowledgeable marine naturalists will inform and amuse you. Our crew loves their work and it shows. Guests tell us that the staff is attentive, warm and friendly.

Sea Kayaks  /  Kayak Tours from Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor on San Juan Island. No experience necessary to kayak with us! We supply all kayaking equipment. We supply your professional kayak guide who is also a marine naturalist. Our kayaks are hand-made top of the line and glide without effort. We pride ourselves on maintaining all of our kayak equipment to the highest standards.

The K-Ko  /  K-Ko (pronounced Kay-ko) is our 30-foot walk around seating custom aluminum vessel. With the comfort of walking around and getting what ever camera angle you like or just asking a question of the skipper, it is an exceptional viewing platform.



The Emerald Moon  /  We also have the new addition of Emerald Moon, our 30-foot custom built Zodiac-style vessel.  Enjoy the unsurpassed proximity to the water and the thrill of an open hull boat. Emerald Moon won't disappoint. The vessels K-Ko and Emerald Moon are both extremely sea worthy and built to Transport Canada safety standards. Custom-built and designed specifically for wildlife viewing in Saalish Sea, we believe there is no better option for viewing wild life . Extremely stable they are exceptional platforms for video or still photography. Both are washroom equipped and comfortably seat 12 passengers and are equipped with hydro phones to listen to the always amazing language of the whales.



Sea Kayaks  /  Experienced guides are here in the summer months to assist with guests who have little or no experience. Paddlers who are proficient in their own self-rescue techniques can rent single kayaks on their own. We abide by the industry safety standards of a maximum of 5 paddlers per guide ratio. All of our boat rentals are required by law to have safety equipment that is enforced by RCMP, Transport Canada and Ships Safety and are supplied for you.

 

Spirit of Orca  /  The Spirit of Orca is a beautiful and seaworthy 26’ boat with a powerful yet very economical diesel engine that will take you safely and quickly to where the whales are. The boat is capable of running 30 knots (35mph) but normal cruising speed is around 20+ knots (24 mph).  There have been extra high handrails added for your safety during the whale watching experience. There is a marine head (toilet) in the forepeak (forward cabin) in case you need it before we get back to the dock.

 

At SpringTide, we’re proud to maintain our fleet in top-notch condition. As a skipper for over twenty years and a fisherman for many more, Captain Dan Kukat has learned a thing or two about what makes boats tick. Between himself and his capable staff, Dan is able to manage about 90 per cent of the maintenance of the SpringTide fleet in-house. That means more reliable boats, smoother operations and fewer interruptions. (And when you’re out in the middle of the deep blue, that’s pretty comforting to know!)

Marauder IV  /  Cruise in comfort aboard our 61’ motor yacht. Size: up to 84 passengers.

Zodiacs  /  Three lightning-fast Zodiacs. Size: up to 12 passengers.

 

Archie V  /   Steveston EcoTours offers unique small group marine eco tours. Our guests view marine wildlife and spectacular scenery in comfort and safety aboard the Archie V, our custom-designed eco tour boat. With inside, heated seating for up to six guests, and a spacious outside viewing deck, our 22-foot vessel is perfect for the personal attention our guests receive on every tour. Fuel-efficient, low-emission four-stroke outboard power ensures we deliver an ecofriendly marine wildlife adventure.

 

Crazy Legs / Triple 8  /  Join us for an exhilarating ride aboard our 40-foot semi-covered vessels accommodating groups of 23 passengers, offering comfortable inside seating and unrestricted outside viewing.  Our vessels are coastguard certified and our captains have extensive BC and Vancouver whale watching experience.  We can accommodate up to 69 passengers in our vessels.  We have a certified naturalist/interpreter on board and hydrophones to hear the whales vocalize.

Explorathor (Open Zodiac Vessel)  /  The Explorathor is the newest addition to our fleet, built in 2010 in British Columbia, Canada. It's a 47-passenger, Zodiac-style vessel, with an open seating area in the front and a semi covered seating area in the rear. The featured highlight of this vessel is the upper level observation deck which will provide passengers a superior view of the whales. Custom-designed for marine mammal viewing, the Zodiac-style hull allows for a smooth ride over the water, reducing the chances of passenger seasickness. Powered by the most fuel-efficient engines available, this water jet propelled boat is driven by turbo engines that exceed emission standard requirements. The benefit to the environment is that the vessel is extremely safe around marine mammals and has a significantly reduced environmental impact. The benefit to our passengers is a faster, quieter and smoother ride. Rain suits, hats and gloves are provided for passengers on the Explorathor.

The Express (Semi Covered Zodiac Vessel)  /  Operating April to October, the Express is a 45-passenger Zodiac-style vessel. It offers a fast and comfortable ride, ideal for families and groups. The bow of the Express has a clear glass roof and slide up windows for unobstructed viewing - the windows slide up not across. This vessel has comfortable bench seating and an open observation deck at the stern which is perfect for photographers. Just like the new Explorathor, this vessel was custom designed for marine mammal viewing. The Zodiac-style hull allows for a smooth ride over the water, reducing the chances of passenger seasickness. The Express is also powered by the most fuel-efficient engines available. It is water jet-propelled and driven by turbo engines that exceed emission standard requirements. The benefit to the environment is the vessel is extremely safe around marine mammals providing a reduced environmental impact. The benefit to our passengers is a fast, quiet and smooth ride.

Lightship 1 (Open Air Zodiac)  /  Operating July and August, the Lightship 1 is a 12-passenger open Zodiac-style vessel.  Built to withstand offshore conditions, it has a rigid aluminium hull of the same design used by the Coast Guard for their rescue missions. For the more adventurous, it offers a thrilling open air ride through the waters of the Strait of Georgia, the Gulf and San Juan Islands. Cruiser suits, hats and gloves are provided for passengers travelling on the open vessels.

Clipper Navigation is proud to introduce you to our fleet!  We have two high-speed catamarans used for passenger ferry service between Seattle, WA and Victoria, British Columbia and one catamaran used for Seattle/San Juan Island service and whale watching excursions.

Victoria Clipper III  /  The Victoria Clipper III is Clipper Vacations' whale and sealife search vessel.  At 114 feet long and 28.5 feet wide, it holds up to 231 passengers, the highest capacity of all Pacific Whale Watch Association vessels -- and that means more whale watchers, less boats on the water, less impacts to whales. Waterjet propulsion system, with a top speed of 25 knots. Three decks, inside seating, and outdoor viewing. Comfortable seating on the upper and lower decks. Five emergency exits and seven life rafts. Built in the USA.

 

The Victoria Clipper IV  /  The Victoria Clipper IV reaches speeds of 30 knots, making it the fastest in our fleet and among the fastest passenger vessels in the Western Hemisphere! She's 132 feet long and 33.3 feet wide, holding up to 330 passengers. Waterjet propulsion system. Upper stern outside deck. Eight emergency exits and eight life rafts. Built in Bergen, Norway.

The Victoria Clipper  /  The Victoria Clipper is the original Clipper, and as elegant as ever. This high-speed catamaran is used for ferry service between Seattle and Victoria, BC. She's 127 feet long and 30 feet wide, with a top speed of 30 knots. Upper stern outside deck open to passengers. Ten emergency exits and 14 life rafts. Built in Bergen, Norway.

The Western Prince II  /  The custom 46' Western Prince II is a fast (cruising at up to 21 knots) USCG-certified twin-engine vessel that was originally built as an ocean going charter boat.  We limit guest counts to only 32, with seating for 41.  It is large enough for safety and comfort, yet small enough for a more interactive trip with the crew, the wildlife and other guests. This is the boat that started it all. Your whale watching and wildlife tour on the Western Prince II will be comfortable regardless of weather. The main seating area, which is outside in the fresh air, has cushioned seating and may be enclosed if the weather dictates. It has a "warm up" cabin with snacks and beverages available for purchase and a full walk-around viewing deck with a spacious forward deck, a favorite with photographers. Amenities also include a galley sink and a restroom. The Western Prince II offers extraordinary comfort and safety for a vessel of her size. If you like your comfort but don't want to travel in a crowd, The Western Prince II is the whale watching vessel for you.

The Western Explorer  /  Looking for something a little more adventurous? The Western Explorer is a 27' Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (Zodiac style), similar to the boats the Coast Guard uses for search and rescue.  It is the only USCG-certified Rigid Hull Inflatable in Washington State. The Western Explorer seats 15 guests and cruises at up to 30 knots, giving us more range than any other US whale watching boat and getting us where we need to go quickly. To ensure your comfort, every guest receives a full length Coast Guard-approved anti-exposure suit.  Of course, while the Western Explorer is a thrill, it is not a thrill ride. Every trip is guided by an experienced Captain/Naturalist with an additional Naturalist on board with more than six guests. Seeing the islands at water level gives you a unique perspective and an opportunity to really experience the local ecosystem. If you are looking for a wind in your hair "expedition style" adventure with the opportunity to learn about the amazing whales and wildlife of the San Juan Islands, then the Western Explorer is for you.

 

Pod Pilot / Quick Change / Orca Maru /   Wild Whales Vancouver began with two vessels. The Pod Pilot, a twin-engine jet boat that is completely open and exposed to the elements and the Quick Change II, also a jet boat, but with a covered section over the seating area and an open viewing deck at the back. A second open vessel, the Orca Maru, joined our fleet in 2010, allowing us to carry 69 passengers per day. We have selected jet boats as they are ideal for whale-watching in this area. They are able to travel quickly, allowing us to cover a large range, but more importantly, they are whale friendly!

 

Other Boats Out There...

WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE
Enforcement Vessel




NOAA FISHERIES
Enforcement Vessel




CENTER FOR WHALE RESEARCH
Orca Survey Research Boat

 

CASCADIA RESEARCH COLLECTIVE
Research Boats

TUCKER, THE POOP-SNIFFING RESEARCH DOG!
University of Washington Center for Conservation Biology

 

NEAH BAY RESCUE TUG

The Barbara Foss  /  The Barbara Foss from Foss Maritime of Seattle, Washington is perhaps the most important vessel in Orca Country. 

Department of Ecology has contracted with Foss Maritime Services for commercial tug services, including rescue standby and operational drills, at the western end of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and along Washington's outer coast. 

The tug on station is the Barbara Foss, a 4,300 horsepower twin-screw tugboat rated for ocean service. She is 126 feet long, 35 feet wide, and has a maximum draft of 16 feet when fully loaded with fuel. It has two EMD main engines that drive two conventional propellers to create 142,600 pounds of bollard pull. The free-running speed is approximately 12.5 knots. It has fuel capacity of over 100,000 gallons of diesel, allowing extended tows. 

The Barbara Foss has been specifically outfitted and the crew specially trained to support its mission as a dedicated rescue tug. 

 

The Barbara Foss has been stationed at Neah Bay for several seasons. Foss Maritime Services has previously used the tug for a wide range of tasks, including rescue work as well as towing heavy barges and ships on many trans-ocean voyages.

 

 

/ Canadian Press 10/18/14

 

 

NON-PROFIT BOATER EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Straitwatch and Soundwatch

is a stewardship-based marine mammal monitoring and education program operating around Vancouver Island, BC. Our program, operated by Cetus Research & Conservation Society, monitors vessel activity around marine mammals, especially killer whales, and provides boaters with interpretive talks and information on the Be Whale Wise – Marine Wildlife Viewing Guidelines. By increasing awareness of the threats these animals face, such as habitat degradation, decreased food availability, increasing underwater noise and contaminant levels, we encourage boaters to modify their behaviour to reduce their impact on these species.

We operate Straitwatch in Johnstone Strait (from Port Hardy to Campbell River), in Haro Strait and Juan De Fuca Straits off Victoria and in Clayoquot and Barkley Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Our goals are:

to minimize the potential disturbance of vessel traffic on killer whales and other marine wildlife by promoting guidelines for responsible viewing; to increase public awareness of the potential consequences of inappropriate viewing behaviour and current ecological issues affecting marine wildlife locally and globally; to promote respect for and understanding of the marine environment; and, to involve communities and individuals in developing and carrying out the program.

Pacific Whale Watch Association helped launch two decades ago, and many of our captains and naturalists have done time on the Soundwatch boat over the years. We believe it remains a helpful boater education program, particularly in engaging private boaters not experienced operating vessels around whales.

Soundwatch relies heavily on community support in the form of volunteers and interns to be effective in changing boater behaviors around marine wildlife. Volunteers are an integral part of this innovative model of community based marine stewardship. Interns assist the Soundwatch program with all aspects of The Whale Museum’s Soundwatch Boater Education Program, both in the field and in the office.