Seattle, Port Townsend, Port Angeles
See Whales in the Wild!Join us on the water to see orcas, humpbacks, gray whales, minke whales and more. We guarantee you’ll see whales!
40th Anniversary Family Business
Three Convenient Departure Locations
Seattle (Edmonds)
Seattle’s most popular & well reviewed whale watching tour, departing from Edmonds, a short drive north of downtown Seattle. The Swiftsure connects you with whales throughout the Salish Sea.
Port Townsend/Olympic Peninsula
On the Olympic Peninsula, perched at the confluence of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound, Port Townsend is an ideal departure point for whale watching cruises. Enjoy half-day and daylong tours in the San Juan Islands on our comfortable vessels.
Port Angeles/Olympic Peninsula
On the Olympic Peninsula, nestled at the north entrance to Olympic National Park and Hurricane Ridge, Port Angeles is a convenient departure location, providing access to popular whale watching destinations, including Victoria, B.C. and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The Hanke Family
From our Family to Yours
Three generations of our family have helped visitors have life-changing experiences with some of the most majestic creatures on the planet. We’re blessed to live in what’s been called “the American Serengeti,” with some of the highest concentration of whales and dolphins and sea life anywhere in the world — including our totem species, the orca. Few people know these waters like we do. Our experience and dedication makes it possible for us to guarantee that you’ll see whales on your trip – we see whales on 99% of our trips – or we’ll give you another trip absolutely free.
Our Tours
Port Townsend Half-day Whale Watching
Our Port Townsend Half-Day Whale Watching Tour is the perfect choice for visitors and travelers with a busy schedule. Visit the Olympic National Park, shop in Victorian Port Townsend, AND see whales!
(April-November)
Seattle Half Day Whale Watching Tour
Enjoy the experience of a lifetime with Seattle’s most popular, well-reviewed whale watching tour. See whales and wildlife in the Salish Sea on our tour departing from Edmonds – just minutes north of downtown Seattle.
(April-December)
Port Angeles Half Day Whale Watching Tour
Visiting Olympic National Park via Port Angeles? This whale watching tour allows you to see humpbacks and orcas during your visit! We’ll have you back in plenty of time to enjoy Hurricane Ridge or downtown Port Angeles.
(May-October)
Puffin & Bird Migration Tours
In partnership with The Port Townsend Marine Science Center, join us to look for Tufted Puffins, as well as Spring and Fall Bird Migration Cruises. Whether you are a lister or an explorer, these cruises are for you!
(April-October)
Port Townsend - San Juan Island Full-Day Whale Watching
This tour is the perfect combination of wildlife and scenery! Explore the San Juan Islands with a 2-hour lunch stop in Friday Harbor.
(April-September)
Multi-day Tours
Join us for exciting 3 day cruises through the San Juan Islands. Selected by National Geographic as one of the World’s Top 3 destinations, the waters around the San Juan Islands are home to whales, Steller sea lions, porpoise, otters, and a dizzying array of seabirds.
(April, September)
Latest News
41 Years of Puget Sound Express: an Abbreviated History
As we kick off our 41st year here at Puget Sound Express, co-founder and president Pete Hanke reflects on the journey so far: Being involved in the creation and ownership of a business that is over forty years old is a unique experience -- there are many emotions that...
Email Newsletter
Get the latest updates on the whales we’re seeing as well as tour updates and announcements. We send 1-2 emails/month. We respect your time and privacy; we will never share your email.