Anacortes Whale Watch

Highlights

Bigg's Killer Whales (T123s)
Steller Sea Lions
Harbor Seals
Bald Eagles

May 28, 2025 | 12 PM Whale Watch

A cool ocean breeze greeted us as we turned the corner out of Cap Sante on one of the hottest days of the year so far. An extreme low tide allowed for some unique exposed intertidal zone viewing and even a great blue Herron stalking through the rocks and tide pools. We always say the whales in this ecosystem are always on the move, and could be anywhere, however when we spotted a tall dorsal fin breaking the surface as we entered Guemes channel, we almost couldn’t believe it!

Less than 15 minutes after we’d left the dock, we stumbled upon a small family of Biggs killer whales heading slowly west. It didn’t take long to recognize this iconic family as the T123s, led by matriarch T123 Sydney. Traveling closely by her side were her calves, T123A Stanly, T123C Darcy, and T123D lucky. We cruised with this matriline as they rounded into Rosario Strait and began south towards burrows island light house. During the encounter, we also spotted a sea lion directly in the family’s path, obliviously thrashing around its own catch. Luckily, these whales didn’t seem hungry and passed the sea lion without a glance. Without many other vessels in the area, we were able to get some absolutely serene looks at this family as they made their way through the islands.

After we’d reached Allen Island, we waved goodbye to Sydney and her family and pointed for bird rocks, where we spotted pigeon guillemots, gulls, cormorants, seals, and even a sea otter resting on top of the swaying kelp forests. Continuing north, we rounded Cypress Island and found a party of sea lions competing for space on a red marker. Turning back down south, we cruised down the back side of Guemes Island and headed home. With the warm sun, calm conditions, and incredible showing of biodiversity, the day truly could not have gotten better!

-Amy