The one stop shop for all the details you'll need for your tour.
We want you to be as prepared as possible for your upcoming tour with us. Below, find information about our onboard menus, photo sales, whale watching etiquette and much, much more. We look forward to seeing you on the water!
Prepare for Your Tour
All guests must be checked-in and ready to board the vessel 20 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. All tours check-in directly at the dock.
Onboard Offerings
The Sea Store onboard the Island Explorer 5 offers an assortment of hot food, snacks, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, and exclusive merchandise for sale. Grab a bottomless souvenir mug, a bite to eat, and your new favorite whale sweatshirt during a trip! Our Sea Store is cashless, so make sure to bring a card for desired purchases.
You are welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages with you.
Photos From Your Tour
After each tour, you'll have the opportunity to take home a one of a kind souvenir. Your tour's photos will be available for purchase on a USB thumb drive before you disembark. Forgot to grab one? Simply call or email our office. We maintain a library of photos from every tour since 2017 so you can purchase afterward if you change your mind.
Feel free to bring your own camera to capture some amazing shots as well!
Whale Watching Guidelines
Island Adventures adheres to all state and federal laws when observing wildlife. Our guidelines include operating at safe, slow speeds around whales and viewing from respectful distances. At times a curious whale may approach our vessel, but close encounters like these are rare and always occur on the whale's terms.
Testimonials
At Island Adventures, we pride ourselves on offering the best service in the industry. We understand (and share) the passion to see whales in the wild, and we want to make sure you have the best trip possible. No two tours are the same, which makes every trip truly special!
Photo Gallery
Amazing images are captured aboard Island Adventures tours daily. Aboard each trip, we have the opportunity to see resident orca, transient killer whales, minke, humpback, and/or gray whales. In addition to the 5 different types of whales, we see a wide variety of wildlife and world-class scenery. On our gallery, we highlight the past seasons, building of the brand new (state-of-the-art) Island Explorer 5, and showcase each whale species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you're interested in booking a whale watching tour or already have a reservation, take a moment to review some of our guests' most frequently asked questions to help prepare for your upcoming adventure!
Tours with Island Adventures
Signature Whale Watch
3-4 Hours | Guaranteed Whales
February - November
Our flagship tour has a brand-new trip duration with a wide variety of departure times throughout the season. This expanded schedule provides guests with more potential adventures to pick from and greater flexibility to accommodate your schedule. Our signature whale watch is signature for a reason, look no further for the best value in whale watching.
Full Day Whale Watch
6-7 Hours | Guaranteed Orcas
May 17 | July 15 | Sept. 11
For those seeking more time on the water and more wildlife, we are thrilled to introduce our inaugural set of full-day excursions departing May 17th, July 15th, and September 11th. These 6-7 hour tours provide us with a broader range and the opportunity to spend more time with whales and other marine life. Dedicate your day to adventure with us!
Extended Range Whale Watch
10-12 Hours | Guaranteed Orcas
June 21 | August 23
Complimentary Fully Catered Food
Our 10-12 hour Extended Range tours offer the ultimate whale and wildlife adventure. These specialty trips are designed for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and true adventurers. Plan ahead, pick your dates, and book early… these tours are a favorite!
4th of July
Whale Watch and Fireworks Cruise
5 PM Departure | Boarding at 4:40 PM
At Island Adventures, we're offering a special 4th of July whale, wildlife, and fireworks cruise out of Anacortes, Washington. The 3-4 hour tour will depart at 5 PM in search of whales and wildlife before sunset, then we'll position ourselves for a front-row view of the fireworks display. Our full menu will be available and features Beecher's Mac and Cheese, Nathan's hot dogs, beer, wine, and more!
Historical Cruise
3 Hour Circumnavigation of Fidalgo Island
June 5 | August 20
Island Adventures is partnering with the Anacortes Museum to provide unforgettable 3 hr historical adventures! Enjoy expert narration from local historians, photos from museum archives, scenic views, and wildlife sightings as we circumnavigate Fidalgo Island. We’ll highlight history surrounding Anacortes, Guemes Channel, early explorers, landmarks, and so much more. This evening cruise is a must for history buffs, local residents, and visitors desiring to learn more about our incredible region!
Private Tours
Custom Tour Length
We'll craft a custom adventure for your next family, company, or crew outing.
Island Adventures is known as the area's premier whale watching company, but we also offer private charters throughout the year. The Island Explorer 5 features a full walk around lower deck, two upper viewing decks, great sound systems, heated cabins, galley service, two restrooms, and the best crew in the area. Whether it is a whale watching tour, wedding, corporate team building event, or a family reunion, give us a call and we will help you set up an event your guests will never forget.