Specials offered on whale watching trips in June

By Kristin Kendle on June 12, 2012

Kicking off the San Juan Whale Watching season, Clipper Vacations is offering a special rate of only $49 per adult for the San Juan Islands Day Trip, which includes a Whale & Sealife Search.

Additionally, children younger than 12 are free with a paying adult when the trip is booked at least one day prior, making it an ideal family trip. The special rate is available every day through June and will increase to $85 in July.

The popular, all-day Clipper whale watching tour starts in Seattle and takes riders through scenic Deception Pass en route to the San Juan Islands. From there, the 2 ½ hour Whale & Sealife Search begins. In past seasons, there has been a rate of 96 percent for whale sightings; this season Clipper has only missed seeing whales one day.

According to Orca Network, the resident pods have recently returned and they are even accompanied by a newborn.

"The Center for Whale Research has confirmed the birth of a new L pod calf, L119, born to 25 year old L77, Matia," states the online publication.

A knowledgeable naturalist is on board to help identify the various orcas and other sealife and to answer questions and educate passengers about the area, the animals and their habitats. All passengers also receive a complimentary Guidebook to the San Juan Islands with full color photos and information about the various sealife and the islands.

In addition to the Whale & Sealife Search, there is approximately 2 1/2 hours of free time to explore Friday Harbor, shop, have lunch or visit The Whale Museum or Pelindaba Lavender Store.

With daily morning departures from Seattle, families can also choose to add on hotel accommodations, staying a night or two and giving themselves more time to enjoy the uniqueness and quietude of Friday Harbor before returning to Seattle.

Overnight packages through Clipper start at $152 until June 18.

For schedule information, more details or to make a reservation, call (206) 448-5000 or 800-888-2535 or book online at www.clippervacations.com.