10 Epic Clipper Whale Watching Moments

Just like that, summer is gone and autumn has arrived with a gust of cool, crisp air and cascading, multi-colored leaves. While we wish we could make the warm endless summer afternoons last forever and spend all year cruising the sparkling waters surrounding the San Juans watching for our black and white orca friends, all good things must come to an end.

With our last Seattle whale watching trip to the San Juans of year this weekend, we wanted to reflect back upon a fabulous season. With a 96% success rate for whale sightings, fun-filled voyages, breathtaking scenery, the tremendous humpback comeback and more porpoises, sea lions and harbor seal pups than we could count, this season was certainly one for the books. Luckily, we have been left with plenty of amazing memories (and photos) that will remain long after our last trip.

1.

Cruising out in search of the ever elusive orca whale. What are you hoping to find this week?

A post shared by Clipper Vacations (@clippervacations) on Jul 7, 2016 at 9:55am PDT

2.

It starts with a small wake in the water, maybe the tip of dorsal fin. The engines are cut and it's silent, save for the sound of lapping water against the hull. Eyes peeled, and when you least expect it…a breach! Two tons of orca get airborne for a few glorious split seconds, and for a few moments you feel weightless yourself. Photo by Paola Toledo.

A post shared by Clipper Vacations (@clippervacations) on Aug 22, 2016 at 9:26am PDT

3.

When my spirit animal isn't a slice of pizza, it's an orca whale. Also known as killer whales, these mammals exist in a matriarchal society – which naturally fit the theme of our ladies-only excursion. The first half of our sea-kayaking + whale-watching adventure is live on the blog (link in profile). — We had a spectacular time with @clippervacations, and I am beyond stoked to announce I have partnered with them to giveaway a whale-watching experience to one of you. To enter, tag the person you'd take along with you if chosen. It's as simple as that. Winner will be announced next week. Good luck! #discoverclipper

A post shared by Natalie Wall (@nataliewall) on Jun 21, 2016 at 9:30pm PDT

4.

@wellingtonorchid captured this beautiful shot of a #humpback in the Salish Sea last week. Happy #WhaleWednesday and happy #HumpbackComeback

A post shared by Clipper Vacations (@clippervacations) on Aug 3, 2016 at 9:50am PDT

5.

T65A2 and T65A3 blowing before swimming into the sunset. This is the majestic northwest we know and love. Photo by @gary_j27 #WhaleWednesday

A post shared by Clipper Vacations (@clippervacations) on Sep 14, 2016 at 8:28am PDT

6.

It's not everyday that you see 66,000 pounds get this airborne. Not unless you're out in the Salish Sea, that is! Welcome to the #HumpbackComeback! Photo by Andrew Lees #WhaleWednesday

A post shared by Clipper Vacations (@clippervacations) on Jul 27, 2016 at 9:28am PDT

7.

Vadym Graifer won our summer photo contest in our San Juan Islands/Whale Watching category with this gorgeous shot of a pod of orcas dancing in the setting San Juan Island sun. It makes us feel all warm and fuzzy inside. #whalewednesday

A post shared by Clipper Vacations (@clippervacations) on Aug 24, 2016 at 9:19am PDT

8.

Just three more days left of our photo contest! Submit your Northwest photos by this Friday, August 12 for your chance to win a @savorseattle​ gift card, and a two-night trip for two. Winners in every category, enter using the link in our bio. Photo by contestant, Cindy Ingram.

A post shared by Clipper Vacations (@clippervacations) on Aug 9, 2016 at 2:50pm PDT

9.

Orcas dancing in the Salish Sea sunset. Yep, that's our idea of perfection. Photo by Vadym Graifer, photo contest finalist. #WhaleWednesday

A post shared by Clipper Vacations (@clippervacations) on Sep 7, 2016 at 6:50pm PDT

10.

Feature Photo: Justine Buckmaster/Clipper Naturalist