when is whale season in seattle

When is Whale Season in Seattle?

Whale season in Seattle primarily spans from March to November. This is when you have the highest chance of spotting orcas, gray whales, and humpback whales as they migrate through the waters of the Puget Sound and the Salish Sea.

Seeing these magnificent creatures is a bucket-list experience for many visitors and locals alike. This guide covers the best times to plan your whale-watching adventure.

Optimal Whale Watching Months

The prime months for whale watching near Seattle are generally March through November. Here’s a breakdown:

Spring: Gray Whale Migration

March and April are excellent for witnessing the gray whale migration. These whales travel north from their breeding grounds in Baja California to their feeding grounds in the Arctic. They often pass close to the coastline, making them relatively easy to spot.

Summer: Orca Encounters

Summer, particularly May through September, is peak season for seeing orcas (killer whales), specifically the Southern Resident orcas, though their numbers have declined and sightings are less predictable. Transient orcas (Bigg’s killer whales), which prey on marine mammals, are more reliably sighted throughout the year, but especially during the summer months.

Fall: Humpback Whale Sightings

Humpback whale sightings increase in the fall (September to November) as they migrate to their winter breeding grounds. You may also still see transient orcas during this time.

Where to See Whales Near Seattle

Several locations around Seattle offer great whale watching opportunities. Whale watching tours typically depart from Seattle, Edmonds, Everett, and Anacortes. Land-based viewing is possible from places like Lime Kiln State Park on San Juan Island, often called “Whale Watch Park”.

Choosing a Whale Watching Tour

When selecting a tour, consider the company’s commitment to responsible whale watching practices. Look for companies that follow guidelines to minimize disturbance to the whales. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides information on marine wildlife viewing guidelines. You can learn more about whale conservation and identification on Wikipedia’s whale page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of whales can I see near Seattle?

You can see gray whales, orcas (both Southern Resident and Transient), and humpback whales.

Is it better to go on a whale watching tour or watch from land?

Tours offer a better chance of seeing whales as they can cover more area. Land-based viewing is possible, but sightings are less frequent.

What should I bring on a whale watching tour?

Bring layers of clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and binoculars.

Are there any guarantees that I will see whales on a tour?

Most tours offer a “no-see” policy, where you get a free trip another day if no whales are spotted, but they cannot guarantee sightings.

How far in advance should I book a whale watching tour?

It’s best to book your tour well in advance, especially during peak season (summer months).

Summary

Seattle’s whale season provides a fantastic opportunity to witness these amazing creatures. The best time to see whales is generally from March to November. Gray whales are most common in spring, orcas in summer, and humpbacks in the fall. Choosing a reputable tour operator is key to a responsible and memorable whale watching experience.