New summer series combines Native storytelling, Indigenous foodways, and cultural interpretation on the Salish Sea
SEATTLE, WA, May 19, 2026 – FRS Clipper and Old Growth Solutions / Taproot Travel Co., a Native-led organization connecting people to Indigenous homelands through immersive cultural education, today announced the launch of First Stories of the Salish Sea: An Indigenous-Led Cultural Experience, a new summer tour series aboard FRS Clipper’s new Emerald Clipper catamaran.
Launching June 16 and operating every Tuesday through July 21, the six-tour pilot invites guests to experience the Salish Sea through Indigenous perspectives as part of a whale watching journey, blending storytelling, cultural interpretation, and Indigenous foodways.
As part of the whale watching experience, guests may encounter marine wildlife such as orcas, humpback whales, and other species that are central to Coast Salish cultural and ecological knowledge. Guided by tribal cultural leaders and storytellers, the experience explores the Salish Sea not simply as a scenic waterway, but as a living homeland that has connected Indigenous communities for generations through travel, trade, fishing, and shared stewardship. Along the journey, guests will learn about Indigenous history, ecological knowledge, oral traditions, and contemporary Coast Salish life, including:
- The Kelp Highway, an ancient migration route linking coastal communities
- Salmon stewardship and the Coast Salish principle of reciprocity
- Tribal treaty rights and the enduring presence of Indigenous fishing in Elliott Bay
- Indigenous leadership in environmental restoration and marine conservation
The tour also features a curated culinary experience highlighting Native-owned businesses and Indigenous ingredients. Guests will participate in a traditional tea tasting rooted in Indigenous plant knowledge and enjoy offerings including kelp vodka from Uncharted Alaska and Bisonberry Blend Bars from Pemmican Patty, inspired by the flavors and medicines of the Pacific Northwest.
In addition to creating a unique visitor experience, the series is designed to support Indigenous economies by partnering with Native-owned vendors, compensating cultural leaders, and prioritizing ethical storytelling practices.
“We’re proud to partner with FRS Clipper to offer an experience that reflects the true depth and history of this place,” said Valerie Segrest, CEO of Taproot Travel Co. and Muckleshoot tribal member. “This is an opportunity to welcome visitors in a way that honors Indigenous communities, supports Native small businesses, and creates a more meaningful connection to the region.”
Tours will take place aboard the Emerald Clipper, FRS Clipper’s new state-of-the-art catamaran featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive outdoor viewing decks designed for whale watching and scenic wildlife viewing.
“We’re honored to help create space for Indigenous storytelling onboard Emerald Clipper during its inaugural season,” said Nik Coutinho. “First Stories of the Salish Sea invites guests to experience the Pacific Northwest through the stories, traditions, and perspectives of the Indigenous peoples who have called this region home since time immemorial.”
Learn more about First Stories of the Salish Sea at https://www.whalewatching.com/first-stories-of-the-salish-sea/.
About Old Growth Solutions / Taproot Travel Co.
Taproot Travel Co. is a Native-led organization that connects people to Indigenous homelands through immersive, regenerative food and culture experiences that honor land-based teachings, are rooted in relationship, respect, reciprocity, and support Native economies.
Old Growth Solutions, the parent company for Taproot Travel Co., serves as the root system that nourishes a living ecosystem of Indigenous and values-driven ventures. They work with Native, Tribal, and non-Native clients to bridge the gap between needs and solutions, ensuring culturally responsive, equity-driven, and sustainable outcomes.
About FRS Clipper
Since 1986, Clipper Navigation (doing business as FRS Clipper) has welcomed more than eight million travelers on routes between Seattle and Victoria and through sightseeing experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Today, FRS Clipper operates the Victoria Clipper fast ferry and Seattle’s only whale watching tour. It is part of FRS Group, an international ferry operator based in Flensburg, Germany, with more than 150 years of maritime experience.
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