Connecting Over 2000 Happy Guests to Nature!
San Juan Islands Birding Cruises
An Unforgettable Marine Experience
These thoughtfully designed cruises combine the excitement of wildlife observation with the serenity of island exploration, creating a comprehensive experience that highlights the natural wonders of the Salish Sea.
San Juan Birding Cruises depart from Anacortes, Washington
Small group cruises with time on the islands!
May – September
San Juan Islands Birding Cruises are professionally and safely lead by our local Naturalist-Guide and owner Stephanie, with over 30 years experience.
“Loved the diversity of cruising, birding and hiking. The small group size was nice.”
Carol, Whidbey Island
ANACORTES BIRDING CRUISE TO
VENDOVI ISLAND PRESERVE
Saturdays, May 17, June 14, September 13
8:30 am – 3 pm
$237 p/p
Activity level: EASY
SENIOR FRIENDLY
Group size: 12 – 20 Adventurers
more details below
Cruise Highlights
Embark on an extraordinary 2-hour marine journey through the sheltered waters of Fidalgo, Guemes, and Cypress Islands, offering an unparalleled wildlife viewing experience.
Seabird Spectacular
- Pigeon Guillemot
- Rhinoceros Auklet
- Marbled Murrelet – highly endangered
- Sea ducks
- Shorebirds
- Raptors
Marine Mammal Watch
- Orcas
- Porpoises
- Seals
- River Otters
Vendovi Island Preserve: 3-Hour Exploration
Island Experiences:
- Birding opportunities on your own though preserved forest, seashore and lookouts
- Hiking on the well-maintained and easy 3-mile trail system
- Wildflowers native to grassy meadows
- Island history
Perfect Picnic Locations:
- Scenic viewpoints
- Serene beaches
- Panoramic landscapes
The “Hidden Gem” of the San Juan Islands
Vendovi Island Preserve is located between Guemes and Lummi Islands and is owned by the San Juan Preservation Trust.
Panoramic Vistas
The voyage provides magnificent scenic vistas of Mount Baker, the North Cascades, the Olympic Mountains, the Salish Sea, and the San Juan Islands archipelago—creating truly spectacular panoramic views!
Media Recognition
The cruise has garnered attention from local media, with a feature in the Seattle Times highlighting its exceptional nature and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Enjoy more of Anacortes, make it a weekend Nature Adventure!
Add the Anacortes Wild Side Eco Tour or the Anacortes Guided Hike on Friday before your Birding Cruise!
Bundling available at checkout.
CANCELLATION PROTECTION offered during checkout is highly recommended
San Juan Islands Birding Cruises
DETAILS
Not included: lunch, taxes & fees, gratuity
What to bring: binoculars, camera, lunch, water, toilet paper/baggie, comfortable walking/tennis shoes and weather appropriate clothing.
Bathrooms: marina, boat, Vendovi Island (closed in September)
Donations encouraged: $5 p/p for SJPT accepted at Vendovi Island donation box
FAQs: How do I get to your area? | Where can I stay? | Booking & Cancellation policy
“The birding cruise is a spectacular experience for seabird observation. I loved how well coordinated Stephanie and the boat captain worked to give us every wildlife viewing opportunity!”
Rae, Bellingham
ANACORTES PUFFIN CRUISE TO
SMITH ISLAND AQUATIC PRESERVE & JAMES ISLAND MARINE STATE PARK
Saturdays, July 12, 26 and August 16
8:30 am – 3 pm
$302 p/p
Activity level: EASY
SENIOR FRIENDLY
Group size: 12 – 20 Adventurers
more details below
Cruise Highlights
Embark on an extraordinary 4-hour cruise, along the exposed waters of Fidalgo, Lopez and Whidbey Islands, that presents a unique opportunity to observe and photograph some of the 30 pairs of Tufted puffins that establish their nesting colony on Smith Island from April through September.
During your journey, you’ll likely encounter other Alcids, seabirds, shorebirds and raptors that inhabit these waters. Remain vigilant throughout the cruise, watching for Orcas, porpoises, seals and river otters that frequent this marine environment.
Smith and Minor Islands Aquatic Reserve
Smith and Minor Islands Aquatic Reserve is situated off the western shoreline of Whidbey Island in the open waters of the Salish Sea. This protected area is surrounded by Washington State’s largest bull kelp bed, forming a critical marine habitat. Designated as an Aquatic Reserve in 2010, it represents the most extensive reserve in the Department of Natural Resources system. As public access onto the islands is prohibited, all wildlife observation takes place from the comfort and safety of the boat, providing an unobtrusive way to look for birds.
James Island Exploration
Complementing your wildlife viewing, the cruise includes a 2-hour visit to secluded James Island Marine State Park. This peaceful retreat offers time to enjoy a leisurely lunch on the beach or at shaded picnic tables while soaking in panoramic views. Short walking paths invite casual exploration of this island gem.
Panoramic Vistas
The voyage provides magnificent scenic vistas of Mount Baker, the North Cascades, the Olympic Mountains, the Salish Sea, and the San Juan Islands archipelago—creating truly spectacular panoramic views!
Enjoy more of Anacortes, make it a weekend Nature Adventure!
Add the Anacortes Wild Side Eco Tour or the Anacortes Guided Hike on Friday before your Birding Cruise!
Bundling available at checkout.
CANCELLATION PROTECTION offered during checkout is highly recommended
San Juan Islands Birding Cruises
DETAILS
Not included: lunch, taxes & fees, gratuity
What to bring: binoculars, camera, lunch, water, toilet paper/baggie, comfortable walking/tennis shoes and weather appropriate clothing.
Bathrooms: marina, boat, island (vault)
FAQs: How do I get to your area? | Where can I stay? | Booking & Cancellation policy