Anacortes, WA

Only 90 miles north of Seattle

Anacortes is the homeport to the San Juan Islands and conveniently located only 90 miles north of downtown Seattle. There is no ferry hassle. Tours on San Juan Island require an hour and a half ferry ride each way which can be tricky in the summer months. Our tours depart out of Cap Sante Marina, conveniently located blocks away from downtown Anacortes. Avoid the added expense and hassle of the Washington state ferry system!

Anacortes Check In Procedures

Please proceed directly to the marina for check in. The closest address to enter into your navigation system is:

712 Seafarer's Way Anacortes, WA 98221

(Google Map)

Please park in the gravel parking lot on your right before the stop sign (see map above). Please do not park in any spaces marked "Reserved" or "2-Hour Parking". Island Adventures can not be responsible if you are towed for parking anywhere other than in the gravel parking lot.After parking, please walk across the street to Dock A and proceed down the ramp to the Island Explorer 5.

Tours From Anacortes, WA

A whale's tail emerging from the ocean, creating ripples and splashes in the blue water.

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.

A close-up of a whale's dorsal fin and part of its back visible above the water in the ocean.

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 16th, July 16th, and September 19th. 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!

A whale breaching the surface of the water in a body of water, with a splash and water spray around it, and rocky shoreline in the background.

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!

Nighttime scene of two children with red hair watching fireworks over a body of water from inside a boat or ferry.

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!

Black and white aerial photograph of a coastal town with a ferry docked at a pier, surrounded by water, trees, and mountains in the background.

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!

Two people on a boat watching a whale breaching the water in a body of water with mountains in the background on a sunny day.

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.