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What Wildlife Can You See on Your Cruise?
Port by port: what is seen, in which months, and whether you see it from the ship, from shore or on a tour.
Wildlife in Seattle
Humpbacks start returning April and May; commonly sighted June to August. Source
Bigg's orcas present year-round in the Salish Sea; main focus April and May, commonly sighted June to August. Tours leave from Seattle area and San Juan Islands ports. Source
A small group of gray whales feeds in the shallows of north Puget Sound in February and March. Source
Your Cruise, Stop by Stop
Likelihood words (common, likely, possible, rare) summarise what parks, tour operators and tourism boards publish. Each row links its source.
Months only: we never claim one day is better than another.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026