Washington’s San Juan Islands and Olympic National Park
Northwest of Seattle, the archipelago of the San Juan Islands is an epicenter for land and water adventures in the wilds of the Pacific Northwest. Prime activities include sea kayaking, whale watching, hiking in rainforests, and exploring the magnificent Olympic National Park on the peninsula to the south. But the region is not just for serious adventurers; many cruise companies ply these waters, offering their guests active, but relaxed, wildlife-viewing excursions. For example, UnCruise Adventures’ trips through the San Juans feature kayaking, hiking forests, and exploring remote islands.
Whale watching is a huge draw in this area, and operators such as Island Adventures offer seasonal viewings of humpback and gray whale migrations, as well as regular sightings of orca pods. For land adventures, many tour operators lead excursions that range from half-day to multi-day expeditions. Backroads and Wilderness Voyageurs are among the companies offering biking and hiking tours through the islands, as well as on Olympic Peninsula. The coastlines of Washington and the San Juan Islands are a charming world apart, filled with fascinating wildlife. On this eight-day cruise, you’ll sail from Seattle, crossing into Puget Sound, Deception Pass, and the Salish Sea, discovering islands, mossy beaches, and dripping rainforests. Climb to ridgetops for incredible views of the San Juan archipelago, kayak alongside rocky cliffs, and watch for whales and eagles from the deck of the Safari Quest, which carries just 22 guests into the tiniest nooks of this unique wilderness region.
Location: Washington, United States
