Seattle: Half-Day Wildlife and Whale Watching Cruise

4.3 (411 reviews) 3–5 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

411 reviews

4.3

Breathtaking scenery as you learn about whales, sealife and the region from an expert onboard naturalist. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Seattle: Half-Day Wildlife and Whale Watching Cruise, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

*Get up close and personal with magnificent transient orcas, minke and humpback whales as well as harbor seal and an array of seabirds

*Soak in stunning mountain, island and ocean vistas as you cruise through the Salish Sea

*Perfect for a quick escape while staying in Seattle!

Day Cruises Day Trips Half-day Tours Private and Luxury Eco Tours Water Tours Pack Animal Tours Wildlife Encounters

At a glance

Duration: 3–5 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 150 people
People per booking: 1–10
Guide: English
Operated by: FRS Clipper

Ages: Infants (0–0 years) · Children (1–11 years) · Adults (12–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Food and Beverage for purchase
Included: Includes all applicable taxes and surcharges
Included: Exhilarating 3 to 5 hour whale watching tour with an expert onboard naturalist

Not included

Not included: Gratuities appreciated but not mandatory

Itinerary

Pike Place Market

Passing by

We start our tour from Pier 69 along historic Alaskan Way just steps from the world famous Pike Place Market.
Space Needle

Passing by

Departing from Pier 69 on Seattle’s downtown waterfront, the vessel begins its journey by heading out into Elliott Bay. As you leave the dock, you’ll have a clear view of the Seattle skyline, with the iconic Space Needle standing tall to the right. The city’s skyscrapers line the shore, and the bustling waterfront gradually fades into the distance. It’s a smooth and scenic start to the trip, offering great photo opportunities and a unique perspective of Seattle from the water.
Stop 3

3 hours

Departing from Pier 69 on the Seattle waterfront, less than a mile away from iconic attractions such as the Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. The whale and marine wildlife tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Salish Sea while searching for orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, and minke whales in their natural habitat. Along the way, you may also spot seals, sea lions, porpoises, bald eagles, and other marine birds. A naturalist is on board to provide expert commentary and answer questions, helping you learn about the local ecosystem, whale behavior, and conservation efforts. The tour follows respectful wildlife viewing guidelines to ensure a safe and sustainable experience for both guests and animals. With comfortable seating, panoramic views, and plenty of opportunities for photos, this tour combines adventure, education, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Seattle Aquarium

Passing by

Seattle Aquarium
Seattle Waterfront

Passing by

Seattle Waterfront

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Please arrive at the FRS Clipper Terminal, located on Seattle's waterfront at Pier 69, 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.

End point

Please arrive at the FRS Clipper Terminal, located on Seattle's waterfront at Pier 69, 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.

Using your ticket

Guests will redeem their Viator tour voucher at the FRS Clipper Seattle ticket office with an agent on the day of the tour.

Please arrive at the FRS Clipper Terminal, located on Seattle's waterfront at Pier 69, 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.