Fast, safe, and the most comfortable!
The Island Explorer 5 offers the best platform for photography, and is the preferred choice for photographers across the area.
The Island Explorer 5 features full walk-around lower decks, upper viewing decks, great sound systems, heated cabins,spacious restrooms with changing tables, an onboard Sea Store with gifts and snacks, as well as the best crew in the area!
Size matters. Regardless of vessel size, all companies obey the same guidelines on viewing distance so why not choose the vessel with three viewing decks and an higher vantage point on the water?
Island Explorer 5
The Island Explorer 5 is simply the best whale watching vessel anywhere.
She is 98' long, 30' wide with a cruise speed of over 25 knots. She is also incredibly quiet which will enhance your whale watching experience. 20+ years of whale watching experience has gone into the design of the Island Explorer 5. She has three full walk-around outside viewing decks with cathedral bow seating that provides more outside viewing area than any tour boat in the region. There are also two large heated cabins with seating for all guests, state of the art A/V system, and large comfortable bathrooms. Onboard guests will enjoy our onboard Sea Store with a variety of snacks, beverages, beer & wine, and a selection of souvenir items!
Vessel features:
- Front Row Viewing: Outside rail viewing space on one side of the boat for all guests
- Indoor heated seating for all passengers
- Three viewing decks for the best possible vantage point over the water
- High-speed catamaran with speeds capable of 25+ knots, giving us one of the largest ranges in the industry
- AED onboard with highly trained/qualified staff and crew
Tours Aboard Island Explorer 5
Signature Whale Watch
3-3.5 Hour Tours
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 Tours
6-7 Hour Excursions
May 16 | July 16 | September 19
For those seeking more time on the water, we are thrilled to introduce our inaugural set of Full Day Excursions. These extended 6-7 hour tours not only provide us with a broader range but also offer an opportunity to spend more time with whales and other wildlife.
Extended Range Tours
10-12 Hour Tours
April 22 | June 20 | August 19
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. We’re excited to announce three Extended Range Tours in 2025 on April 22nd, June 20th, and August 19th. Plan ahead, pick your dates, and book early… these tours are a favorite!
Historical Tours
3 Hour Tour
June 6 | August 22 | September 5
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!
4th of July Fireworks Cruise
2 Hour Cruise
July 4th, 2025
Skip the hassle of finding a good spot for your folding chair this 4th of July and enjoy a front-row fireworks view! This year, our Independence Day celebration is dedicated to providing you with the best possible view of the fireworks—from the water. Our tour will depart at 9:00 PM, and we’ll head out of Cap Sante Marina to position ourselves with an unparalleled view of Anacortes’ breathtaking fireworks display.
Private Charters
Custom tour duration and departure time
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.
Online Reservations
Make a reservation online with our secure system and receive an immediate email confirmation.
Whale Report
See what we've seen on the water. There's a detailed account from every tour since 2003!
Our Guarantee
We guarantee whales on every tour!