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Kayak to see Orcas: Logistics from Seattlle?

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Kayak to see Orcas: Logistics from Seattlle?

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Old Jul 10th, 2012, 01:03 PM
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Kayak to see Orcas: Logistics from Seattlle?

Hi,

From Seattle, what are the logistics for doing a kayak tour to see orcas off San Juan Islands? Is it do-able as a day trip or a multi-day trip is required? Thinking of goiing the first week of August -- require advanced booking? How expensive?

Other options? Orcas watching by boat? From where? Any other places to see orcas?

Sorry, I haven't done any research, and thought I want to see orcas the weekend after my business trip in Seattle.

Thanks for all suggestions and links!
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Old Jul 10th, 2012, 01:07 PM
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BTW, is Orcas Island different from San Juan Island??

Sorry, for my total ignorance. It just dawned on me that perhaps I should stay the weekend to see the orcas. I need to book my Seattle ticket soon, so appreciate your help!
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Old Jul 10th, 2012, 01:49 PM
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BTW, can you still see orcas in August?
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Old Jul 10th, 2012, 02:34 PM
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The "San Juan Islands" are a group of islands, including: Orcas, Lopez Island, San Juan Island, Shaw Island, Lummi Island.

It takes at LEAST 3 hours to get there by car/ferry from Seattle so not really practical as a "day trip".

A quick Google search showed: Orca Whale Watching Season 2012: April 7 to October 13
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Old Jul 11th, 2012, 08:29 AM
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Here's a link to a very informative web page that discusses how to get to San Juan Island / Friday Harbor. Great advice on how to deal with the ferry and all the alternative travel methods. I would also recommend this company for your tour: Sea Quest Kayak Tours - very knowledgeable guides and well-organized.

http://www.sea-quest-kayak.com/kayak...an-juan-island
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Old Jul 11th, 2012, 01:08 PM
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Thanks, all, for the info. Is it possible to take the car on a ferry to Orcas Island and then San Juan and back to mainland?
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Old Jul 13th, 2012, 06:25 AM
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You can take a car on the ferry to Orcas Island, and then catch the inter-island ferry to San Juan Island, and then back to the mainland (Anacortes is the ferry dock location). However, as others have pointed out, not a trip you'd want to do in a day.

I'm the Executive Director for the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce, and I'm happy to help provide more detailed info. Here's a link to our basic "Getting to Orcas" page from our website: http://orcasislandchamber.com/getting-here

Let us know if we can help. Lance Evans
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