Anacortes Whale Watch

Highlights

Bigg's Killer Whales (T46s, T46B1s, & T100s)
Harbor Seals
Steller Sea Lions
Bald Eagles

March 15, 2026 | 1 PM Whale Watch

Today's adventure was full of memorable wildlife encounters, culminating in a T-Party that included the T46s (minus T46D), T46B1s, and T100s (minus T100F).

As we cruised south down Rosario Strait, Captains Carl & Tyson sighted some exciting eagle activity offshore. Three bald eagles were circling a growing bird mill of vocal gulls and diving alcids. We watched as one of the juvenile eagles swooped and soared, diving towards the fish and birds below while being chased by a growing number of gulls. An aerial battle who's end we were left wondering about, as we made our turn to search for more life.

We slowly cruised past Castle Island, spying another bald eagle and many darling harbor seals. Angling west, we ventured into the open waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, passing flocks of scooters, common murres, rhinoceros auklets, loons and more. We had heard word of Bigg's sighted in Haro Strait, so we went to follow up on that report. This route took us up to the Lime Kiln Lighthouse, but sadly we never did find the orcas. Not to worry, as new reports were coming in from San Juan Channel.

As we entered Griffin Bay, jet black dorsal fins dotted the horizon! Three pods of Bigg's killer whales were gathered, prowling the placid waters for their next meal. They angled towards a growing bird mill, sending rhinoceros auklets and common murres running. Whether they picked up food here, or in the next current line they passed is unclear, but the finishing kill took place just north of Goose Island. After some circling and splashing, a clear slick glazed the surface and the gulls began circling. Bigg's showing off their prowess as apex predators. Even little T46B1D, born less than a year ago, was getting in on the action.

We left the group porpoising in synchrony as they entered the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and turned to visit the wildlife on Whale Rocks. Dozens of Steller sea lions were gathered here, and a lone juvenile bald eagle perched atop the highest point. It was a full sensory experience listening to their growls and smelling the aroma of the haulout.

Our wildlife encounter wrapped up just in time for the skies to unleash, giving the boat a good washdown as we all enjoyed the warmth and comfort of the cabins. It was smooth sailing home to Cap Sante from there.

-Sam

Bigg's we encountered today:

T46s:
T122 Centeki
T46E Thor
T46F Loki

T46B1s:
T46B1 Tread
T46A1A Tsakani
T46B1C Tide
T46B1D Unnamed

T100s:
T100 Hutchins
T100C Laurel
T100E Estrella