A boat built specifically for whale watching.
The west coast's premier whale watching vessel departs from the homeport of the San Juan Islands.
The Island Explorer 5 is the most state-of-the-art vessel on the entire west coast, boasting impressive speed and high-tech electronics.
The height above the water gives you a much better vantage point. (The legal viewing distance applies the same to all vessels — lower profile boats cannot get you any closer, so they just can’t see as well as you will from the Island Explorer.) A state-of-the-art audio/visual system allows our naturalist to turn the boat into a floating class room. The Island Explorer is safe (it exceeds all US Coast Guard requirements for the area), fast (capable of speeds of 25+ knots, which gives us the range to guarantee whales), and comfortable for all of our guests.
Tours Aboard Island Explorer 5
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.