SEATTLE, WA (April 15, 2025) – Iconic US ferry and excursion vessel operator FRS Clipper Inc., provider of Seattle’s only wildlife & whale watching experiences, is excited to announce that it will receive an advanced newbuild whale watching catamaran next year. The newbuild multi-million dollar high speed vessel, built by Mavrik Marine Inc., a commercial shipyard in La Conner, WA, will begin sailing from Seattle’s Pier 69 in May 2026.

FRS Clipper Inc. currently operates Seattle’s only wildlife & whale watching tours aboard the MV San Juan Clipper, offering sailings led by expert naturalists, a full galley, gift shop, and free souvenir guidebooks. The yet-to-be-named new ship, designed by One2Three Naval Architects in Sydney, Australia, will feature two expansive, wind-protected viewing decks, allowing guests to be outside in all weather conditions. Those sitting indoors will be able to view wildlife through floor to ceiling windows. The ship will also include a large galley serving hot meals and a dedicated naturalist station where passengers can learn about Pacific marine life from Clipper’s trained, knowledgeable staff.

The new 102-foot catamaran will carry up to 150 passengers plus crew. Combining improved fuel efficiency with an impressive cruising speed of over 32 knots, it will quickly cruise the Puget Sound and be able to quickly respond to reported whale sightings.

“FRS Clipper, supported by global ferry operator FRS Group of Germany and proud member of the Pacific Whale Watching Association (PWWA), is pleased to make this investment in Washington State’s marine industry ,” said FRS Clipper CEO Mark Collins. “This ship brings a new level of comfort, performance, and environmental sensitivity to the whale watching market. We think our customers will enjoy this state-of-the-art experience.”

“When asked to develop a vessel that met the customer service standards laid out by operator FRS Clipper, we relied on our past experience and proven results to design this new vessel,” said Bailey Shewchuk, President of Mavrik. “Clipper was very specific about their service standards and experience they will deliver to their guests, and Mavrik is committed to building the finest quality boat to meet those goals.”

About FRS Clipper Inc.

Since 1986, FRS Clipper Inc. has provided transportation and tours to more than eight million travelers. As a proud member of the Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA), Clipper is committed to operating with responsible and sustainable wildlife and whale watching practices. To learn more about Wildlife & Whale Watching Tours, visit frsclipper.com.

About Mavrik Marine Ltd

Mavrik Marine Ltd is a privately held shipyard located at the Port of Skagit in La Conner, WA. Mavrik employs over 75 crafts people, building the finest quality commercial aluminum vessels available. For more Mavrik information please visit www.mavrikmarine.com

Contact:

Leah Weathersby

Marketing Director, FRS Clipper

Email: leah.weathersby@clippervacations.com

Phone: 206-679-4428

Press Photo:

A rendering of FRS Clipper Inc.’s new whale watching vessel by Mavrik Marine, Inc. (Note this design is not final)

Rending of new FRS Clipper Inc wildlife and whale watching vessel

Caption:

FRS Clipper Inc.’s new state-of-the-art whale watching vessel will bring an elevated guest experience to Seattle’s only wildlife and whale watching tour