Whale watching with San Juan Safaris
I have been fortunate to have been whale watching a number of times, but Memorial Day weekend was by far the best whale watching experience I have ever had. Once on the boat we received word there were orcas in the area. Within twenty minutes we had our first sighting of a humpback whale followed by an unprecedented show put on by two groups of transient whales. They played, swam and left us in awe of their beauty.
About a year ago San Juan Safaris purchased a high speed boat called the M/V Kestrel. It is able to reach higher speeds and maneuver more quickly than their previous whale watching boat. The only downside is it is a little too wild of a ride for young children, but the upside is it is a really fun adventure for adults. Instead of spending most of our time getting from Point A to Point B we were able to watch the whales for the majority of our trip. Included in your ticket price is use of an all weather, waterproof, wind resistant outfit with a built in life vest. Although it was not the most fashionable thing I have ever worn, it kept me warm, dry and had I accidentally fallen in it would have helped keep me alive.
On past trips, there have been a couple times where we have only seen whales for a brief period of time. During those trips we are reminded how plentiful, interesting and diverse the local wildlife is. The San Juans are a spectacular place to get out on the water no matter the season, the weather or whether or not you see whales.
I realize this photo does not even look real. Seeing a whale breach with your own two eyes is something I will never forget. I have dreamed for years of seeing an orcas whale breach!
I cannot say enough nice things about Brian nor his team from San Juan Safaris. They are knowledgeable, friendly and when even the naturalist gets excited you know it has been an amazing day out on the water.
This post was sponsored by San Juan Safaris. All opinions stated here are my own and I was under no obligation to write anything other than my personal experience. I will never write about anything I did not enjoy or find to be a valuable experience.
