Port Townsend has a great Whale Watching tour from April through September, which leaves from Point Hudson aboard the "Redhead". This is a trip you do not want to miss!
The orcas live in pods and travel around the San Juan Islands in their quest for salmon, which is the mainstay of their diet. The naturalists in the area have studied these whales for years, know their numbers, give them names and recognize them by their dorsal fins and other markings. There are 3 pods in this area and are named by letters, the only one I can remember is J Pod. Unfortunately they appear to be dwindling in numbers and the crew is very careful to disturb them as little as possible. Sightings are guaranteed and usually plentiful as you can tell from my photos.
Naturalists study the pod and keep track of their numbers by the markings on the dorsal fins.
Dorsal fin Seals on the island
Friday Harbor on San Juan Island
The "Redhead" departs early morning, travels across the channel and heads to Friday Harbor, a wonderful destination in itself. There is a 2 hour stop for lunch and a leisurly stroll around the small town.
Along the way you see the many orcas, porpoises which play with the boat and an island where there are seals sunning themselves on the beach. There are also sightings of river otters, puffins and eagles. Also seen is the Humpback Whale and the Grey Whale.
The "Redhead" moored at Point Hudson, in Port Townsend
The "Redhead" is a very comfortable craft, with comfortable seating at individual tables, a very friendly and accommodating crew, and a great snack bar. For sailing schedule:
www.pugetsoundexpress.com/index.htmls
Good Morning Sandra,
What a great post about whale watching in Port Townsend aboard the Redhead. I would absolutely love it! Thank you for the sharing this with us. Great photos!
Rita
Thanks for reading. If you like nature, this is the best and easiest way to experience it. Hope you can get over this way one day.
Sandra - Your whale pictures are quite amazing! Whale watching is something I've not experienced yet! Your pictures have revved me up to get that done, and off my Bucket List!
Myrl, I am thinking this would be a great time for a trip to the cool Northwest to do some whale watching, I hear it is over 100 degrees in Sacramento. Do put this on your list, it is quite an experience.