Anacortes Whale Watch

Highlights

Bigg’s killer whales: T100s (minus T100E)
Steller sea lions
Harbor seals
Bald eagles
Pigeon guillemots

June 16, 2026 | 1 PM Whale Watch

With winds howling from the west, we were delighted to hear rumors of whales to the north, taking us in the direction of sheltered waters. We’d been heading west in Guemes Channel when the news came in, and made an abrupt ninety degree turn up Bellingham Channel and along the breathtaking coastline of Cypress Island. We stopped to visit with some sleepy Steller sea lions hauled out atop a navigational marker, noting the many pelagic cormorant nests that were being tended to in the nooks above. Continuing north, we kept our binoculars up as we reached the outer islands, scanning hard for signs of cetaceans.

As we neared Puffin Island, word came in from a friend that they’d just found a pod of Bigg’s near Parker Reef. Another ninety degree turn and we were on our way. Upon arrival, we quickly identified them as the T100 trio! Hutchins, Laurel and Estrella were working their way along the northern coastline of Orcas Island towards Point Doughty. The steep cliffs, beautifully illuminated emerald waters, and sunlit blows made for the most incredible scene. The family appeared to be looking for their next meal, as they were spread out for much of the encounter, patrolling current lines strewn with driftwood.

We left the pod to continue their cruise down Presidents Channel, making a turn back to the north to see what else the day had in store for us. A scenic cruise along the northern Orcas shoreline ended in a stop with two mature bald eagles perched high atop the trees. We slowed again at the Peapods, where harbor seals were hauled out and sunbathing, seeking shelter on the leeward side of the islands. We cut east towards Lummi, hugging the eastern coastline of Guemes for the final leg of our journey.

All-in-all, a fabulous afternoon on the water, with calmer conditions than we could have hoped for!

-Sam