DETAILS
Join us on this small-group journey exploring one of North America’s most spectacular marine ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest. From rugged coastlines to tranquil forests, experience the raw beauty of Washington State in a way that few travelers ever do. Each day unfolds with extraordinary wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural discoveries.
- Pricing from
- $5,995
Call 866-639-0079 or CLICK HERE to reserve this tour today!
- Trip Type
- Closer to Home
- Departure Dates
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Aug 2, 2027 - Aug 7, 2027
ITINERARY
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day 1
Arrive in SeaTac, WA | Saint Edward State Park (Kenmore)
Upon arrival to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the property set amid the tranquil forests of Saint Edward State Park in Kenmore.
Take time to unwind and explore the lodge’s serene walking trails before gathering with fellow travel companions for a special welcome reception followed by dinner.
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day 2
La Conner | Southern San Juan Islands Cruising | Friday Harbor
After a delightful breakfast depart by private transportation for the scenic drive to La Conner, a charming waterfront town on the Salish Sea.
From there, embark upon a touring vessel destined for the San Juan archipelago highlighted with a wine tasting of the region’s varietals and delicious crab lunch plus prime wildlife spotting opportunities.
Arriving at Friday Harbor, check into your charming boutique hotel, your home away from home for the next three evenings. Meet with a local Orca researcher to learn about the resident and transient Orca populations. Gain insight into why the resident pods are critically endangered and learn about conservation research and efforts currently underway in the San Juan Islands.
Take time to settle in and refresh before rejoining the group for dinner which will be at a local restaurant.
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day 3
Orcas Island • Sucia Island
Following breakfast, cruise to Orcas Island with opportunities to encounter the region’s incredible marine wildlife. This area is one of the best places in the world to see orcas in the wild. The region is known for Southern Resident orcas (which are salmon-hunting pods) and Transient orcas (which prey on seals and sea lions). Watching these magnificent creatures breach or glide through the water is an unforgettable experience. Also keep an eye peeled for breaching humpback whales as well as bald eagles soaring high above the water.
Playful harbor seals and sea lions are often spotted lounging on rocky outcrops or bobbing in the waves. Dall’s porpoises—the largest of all porpoises—are quick and acrobatic, sometimes seen diving through waves or swimming beside boats. Birdwatchers keep alert for the puffins, cormorants and great blue herons who call this marine paradise home.
Visit Moran State Park, the crown jewel of Orcas Island, encompassing more than 5,200 acres of forest, lakes and waterfalls. The park’s diverse ecosystems also offer opportunities for wildlife watching.
At 2,409 feet, Mount Constitution is the highest point in the San Juan Islands. The summit offers 360º views of the surrounding islands, the Cascade Mountains and even the Canadian Gulf Islands on clear days. There’s a stone observation tower at the top, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, which provides an even better vantage point.
Continue to Sucia Island, one of the most geologically fascinating islands in the San Juan archipelago. This remote, pristine island is a designated Washington State Marine Park known for unique sandstone formations and fossilized sea creatures embedded in the rocky cliffs. Gain insight into the area’s profound history followed by leisure time to explore independently—walk through hidden coves and wade through the crystal-clear waters—and a picnic lunch.
The afternoon features additional whale watching and photography opportunities on board the boat.
Later enjoy the relaxing return journey to Friday Harbor followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
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day 4
San Juan Island Touring
Today visit American Camp located on the southern end of San Juan Island where U.S. troops were stationed during one of the most peculiar border disputes in U.S. history—the Pig War of 1859, which left behind two fascinating historical sites: American Camp and English Camp. These locations mark the standoff between British and American forces who peacefully co-occupied the island for 12 years before an eventual resolution through arbitration. Admire the windswept coastal prairies and see historic military structures that remain. Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of bald eagles, red foxes and black-tailed deer.
Continue to Lime Kiln Point State Park—nicknamed Whale Watch Park—a coastal gem and one of the best places to spot orcas from land. The park is a primary location for ongoing orca research and conservation efforts, with several organizations studying the behavior, acoustics and health of the orcas that frequent the waters of the Salish Sea.
Lunch is a special treat set against a stunning waterfront backdrop. Be seated at Westcott Shellfish Company for a Tide Table Lunch—an interactive seafood experience featuring fresh oysters, clams and mussels harvested at the perfect tide level for optimal shellfish quality.
Before returning to Friday Harbor, visit Roche Harbor where you’ll learn about the lime kilns followed by leisure time to explore the harbor and local shops independently.
This evening there is an opportunity to join an optional 3-hour kayak tour (additional fee applies).
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day 5
Friday Harbor | Deception Pass | Anacortes
After breakfast visit The Whale Museum for a docent-led tour. Continue to the northern end of San Juan Island to see English Camp—a striking contrast to American Camp. While the Americans built their encampment on an open prairie, the British Royal Marines settled into a picturesque bay surrounded by forested hills. The camp, located along Garrison Bay, is more refined and garden-like reflecting British military traditions.
Next visit a working farm on the island for a farm-to-table lunch.
Later continue by boat to Anacortes, cruising by Deception Pass, one of Washington’s most iconic natural landmarks. This dramatic strait separating Fidalgo Island from Whidbey Island is known for its towering cliffs, swirling emerald waters and misty sea air. The pass itself is named for the deceptively strong tidal currents that rush through the narrow channel, creating dramatic whirlpools and standing waves as seawater moves between Skagit Bay and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
This evening gather together for a special farewell dinner on a rooftop terrace to celebrate your exciting adventures in the Pacific Northwest.
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day 6
Anacortes | Deception Pass State Park | SeaTac | Depart SeaTac
After breakfast visit Deception Pass State Park—more than 4,000 acres of protected forests, beaches and scenic trails. The park offers plenty of opportunities to explore, hike and spot for wildlife including soaring bald eagles, harbor seals basking on rocky outcrops and even the occasional porpoise or whale gliding through the turbulent waters.
Later transfer to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for flights home.
Everything you need to know about the tour
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Optional Pre-Tour – Olympic National Park
Experience the remarkable diversity of Olympic National Park’s varied landscapes ranging from breathtaking coastlines and glacier-carved mountains to temperate rainforests draped in moss. Walk through old-growth forests beside massive spruce and fir trees, admire remarkable views from scenic overlooks and stroll the gorgeous sandy beaches of the Pacific Northwest.
Activity Level: 3
Full Itinerary
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch
Day +1: Arrive in SeaTac, WA • Olympic National Park
Thursday, July 29, 2027
Upon arrival to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with the group transfer to Port Angeles, the northern entry point to Olympic National Park and home to the park’s Visitor Center. Break for an independent lunch then enjoy time exploring Hurricane Ridge. Take advantage of exceptional photography opportunities and admire the spectacular mountain scenery.
Late afternoon transfer to the lodge for check-in and an evening at leisure at the property. Perhaps walk the trails around Lake Crescent to capture the tranquil atmosphere of this inspirational setting.
Day +2: Marymere Falls • Quinault
Friday, July 30, 2027 (B)
This morning set off on a scenic forest trail walk to idyllic Marymere Falls, a picturesque waterfall cascading through a narrow gorge. The walk provides an excellent introduction to the dense forests and peaceful natural settings that define much of the Olympic Peninsula.
Later board a motor coach for a relaxing 2-hour drive south to Quinault, breaking mid-way for lunch on your own.
Arriving at your spectacular lodge accommodations, enjoy opportunities to hike, kayak or canoe independently. The evening also features an optional boat cruise on Lake Quinault (additional fee).
Day +3: Hoh Rainforest • Olympic National Park Beaches
Saturday, July 31, 2027 (B,L)
After breakfast meet with a local guide to explore Hoh, one of the world’s largest temperate rainforests. Enormous spruce, cedar and hemlock trees create a lush environment unlike anywhere else in the continental United States. Walk the Hall of Mosses trail beneath canopies draped with thick layers of moss and ferns while learning how abundant rainfall has shaped this remarkable ecosystem.
After a picnic-style lunch rejoin the group for the return drive to the lodge stopping to visit the Olympic National Park Beaches en route. See the dramatic driftwood-covered coastline of Olympic National Park and tide pools teeming with marine life. Ruby Beach is particularly known for its striking offshore rock formations and expansive coastal views.
The evening is at leisure for dinner and independent activities at the lodge.
Day +4: Quinault Rainforest • Main Program Begins
Sunday, August 1, 2027 (B)
Following breakfast and check-out, depart for guided touring of the Quinault Rainforest. This equally impressive section of Olympic National Park is known for giant trees, tranquil lakes and rich biodiversity. Explore this peaceful landscape while learning about the interconnected ecosystems that make the Olympic Peninsula one of North America’s most ecologically diverse regions.
Break for lunch on your own, then regather for the group transfer to join guests arriving for the main program.
Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
Inclusions
- 3 nights lodge accommodations
- 3 breakfasts and 1 picnic-style lunch
- Guiding services of an Orbridge Expedition Leader
- Park admission fees
- Transportation for included park activities
- Gratuities to Orbridge Expedition Leader, local guides, drivers and porters
- Airport transfer for guests arriving during the suggested times
Rates
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Double: | $2,795 |
| Single: | $3,895 |
Optional Excursion:
Lake Quinault Boat Cruise: $59 per person
*Pre-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Unless noted otherwise, airfare not included.
For all programs , if the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge more than 90 days prior to the program’s scheduled departure date, all monies paid to Orbridge for the main program and for any pre-tour and/or post-tour will be refunded less an administrative fee of $350 per person for the main program and $200 per person for a pre-tour and/or post-tour. If the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge between 90 and 76 days prior to the scheduled departure date, a 25% cancellation fee will be applied to the full cost of the program, including any pre-tour and/or post-tour, optional excursion(s) fees and optional electives, and the balance will be refunded. If the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge between 75 and 61 days prior to the scheduled departure date, a 50% cancellation fee will be applied to the full cost of the program, including any pre-tour and/or post-tour, optional excursion(s) fees and optional electives, and the balance will be refunded. If the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge between 60 and 46 days prior to the scheduled departure date, a 75% cancellation fee will be applied to the full cost of the program, including any pre-tour and/or post-tour, optional excursion(s) fees and optional electives, and the balance will be refunded. If the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge within 45 days prior to the scheduled departure date, a 100% cancellation fee will be applied to the full cost of the program, including any pre-tour and/or post-tour, optional excursion(s) fees and optional electives.
TOUR MAP
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