The waters surrounding the city of Seattle teem with marine life throughout the year. Each season has its special offers, and Gray Whales of Puget Sound are what spring has prepared for you. During the season 20,000 gentle giants migrate along the west coast. On their way home to Alaska, they make a lasting stop to feed in the area. For this occasion, specially designed tours run from Everett from late February to late May. The city is just minutes away from their rich feeding grounds, which allows more time to enjoy the encounter of a lifetime. It's also only 30 minutes from Seattle. The probability of sighting is 99.5%. This is considered to be the best of the many whale watching opportunities in the state.
The cruise boat will take you to the calm waters of Port Gardner Bay, Possession Sound, and Saratoga Passage. With Gray whales being the highlight of the trip, watch out for orcas, minke, and humpback whales which are observed all year round. Along with whales, you'll be able to view other inhabitants of the area, such as harbor seals, sea lions, porpoise, osprey, eagles, and seabirds.
Usually, the tours run in the morning and afternoon. The morning visitors benefit from being the first on the water and having the afternoon for themselves, while later visitors don't have to wake up early and can end their day in a nice company of whales.
Practical info
When is the best time to go Gray Whale watching near Everett of Seattle?
Gray whale watching near Everett of Seattle is best during March to May. 20,000 gray whales feed in waters surrounding the area as they migrate along the west coast from Alaska to their homes. The success rate of sighting one is 99.5% in this season, making it the best time for whale-watching in the state. Show more
Where is the departure point for Gray Whale Watching Tours?
Located just 30 minutes away from Seattle, the departure point for Gray Whale Watching tours is Everett. The tour period runs from late February to late May. The cruise boat departs from Everett and journeys to Port Gardner Bay, Possession Sound, and Saratoga Passage, all of which are close to the location of the whales' feeding grounds. Show more
What are the chances of spotting an Orca Whale during the tour?
The main attraction may be Gray Whales, but during the tour, visitors are likely to view other whale species, including orcas, minke, and humpback whales. Although orca sightings are common in the summer, they are not guaranteed. Conversely, Gray Whales are present in very large numbers during the spring months. Show more
What species of marine creatures can also be spotted during the tour?
Other than whale species such as Gray, Orca, Humpback, and Minke Whales, visitors could also catch sight of Harbor seals, sea lions, porpoises, eagles, osprey, and seabirds. The proximity of the feeding grounds to the city of Everett makes these sightings possible. Show more
What are the differences between morning and afternoon tours in terms of visitor experience?
Morning tours offer visitors a chance to start their day early and have more time to enjoy the sightseeing experience, while afternoon tours offer visitors a chance to take their time and end the day among gentle giants. The latter option increases the opportunity for visitors to observe whales up close. Whether you choose differently, you're likely to have an unforgettable and relaxing experience. Show more
