Anacortes Whale Watch

Highlights

Bigg's killer whales (T37Bs, T37A, T37A2)
Steller sea lions
Common murres
Stunning mountain views!

September 25, 2026 | 12 PM Whale Watch

Stormy September days like this remind us how lucky we are to enjoy the luxuries the Island Explorer 5 provides: heated cabins, ample window seating, warm beverages, and swift catamaran cruising. All of these features came in handy as we raced the storms rolling in from the west. Fortunately, the whales don't really care about the weather, and we enjoyed a truly beautiful and personal encounter with a group of Bigg's killer whales in Puget Sound.

The T37Bs, T37A and T37A2 (Harald, Lance, Slice, Volker and Inky) were traveling in tight formation as we arrived on scene midchannel between Lagoon Point and the peninsula. The Puget Sound waters were wonderfully sheltered today, and the fog rolling in and out provided a moody, misty backdrop for our time spent with these five orcas. Seeing Volker take the lead, with both teenage boys flanking either side while little Slice stayed close to mama Harald in the center had us marveling at the social dynamics of these family-oriented beings.

As we raced the storm home, we couldn't help but marvel at the EPIC views of the Olympic Mountain range. Stormy days really highlight the layers of these rugged mountain peaks; mist rolling up from the forests while sunbeams shone down through breaks in the clouds added drama to the scene. Captain Carl expertly navigated the growing swell, working with the flow of waves to guide us safely back towards Rosario Strait. We gave the IE5 a thorough wash down that evening, as she had a fresh layer of salt crystals glimmering in the evening sun from the first to third deck.

We had a true maritime adventure today, and hope today's guests leave with an appreciation for the beauty and dynamic nature of this inland sea!

-Sam