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Whale Watching in the Pacific Northwest
Whale watching expeditions to see the migration of Killer Whales and Orca Whales have become one of the most popular vacation activities in the Pacific Northwest. Although whales can often be seen from the shores, Washington state is home to many private whale watching excursions along its coast. Located in the northwest corner of the state, the San Juan Islands are a gateway for most small boat whale watching expeditions in Washington.
Article Source: TravelFreeGuides.com
The San Juan Islands are comprised of more than 170 islands that were once part of the mountain range that joined Washington state to Vancouver Island. Vancouver Island and the Olympic Penninsula shield the San Juan Islands from the Pacific Ocean. Over 80 of the islands are protected under the San Juan Island Refuge that serves as home to Orca whales and other unique wildlife. In fact, almost 100 Orca whales are year-round residents of the San Juan Islands area. Located more than 20 miles from the mainland, the islands are accessible only by Washington State ferry service, small planes or private boats. The four main islands in the system that are serviced by Washington ferries are San Juan, Orcas, Lopez and Shaw.
What better way to experience the beauty of the San Juan Islands than by whale watching from a small boat. This whale watcher's paradise off the coast of Washington state boasts a year round presence of whales and other curious sea creatures. Small boat tours are able to offer their personalized, three to four hour expeditions to only a handful of guests at a time. Equal opportunity to see and photograph the whales, an opportunity to interact with the boat's captain and an intimate setting aboard the small boat are all added perks. This makes them vastly different from the larger whale watching boats with tens of guests who must maneuver their way to the railing to see the whales.
If planning a vacation to the San Juan Islands for whale watching, take into consideration that most tours are seasonally operated and run from late spring through early fall. April through September are the most common months for expeditions to be in operation, but some open as early as March and close for the season at the end of October. Although most tour operators will search tirelessly to provide whale sighting opportunities, there may be days when the whales are too far out. In cases such as this, the other amazing wildlife of the San Juan Islands will be explored. Sea lions, seals and a variety of sea birds also call the refuge home. If adventure is an important part of the vacation plans, consider kayaking off the San Juan Islands for whale watching opportunities instead.
Whale watching in the Pacific Northwest is a unique opportunity to experience the untarnished beauty of Orca and Killer whales in their natural habitat. By researching private tour companies, carefully planning the vacation and being open to experiencing the beauty of nature, the expedition is sure to be a highlight of a lifetime. The San Juan Islands of Washington state are truly a whale watcher's paradise.
About the Author
Bill Carli lives and operates Carli Whale Watch Tours in the San Juan Islands where the beauty of local wildlife abounds.
by: Bill Carli
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Date: Sun, 10 Jan 2010 Time: 11:17 AM -
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