Haleigh | M/V Osprey | July 4, 2021 | 5:30pm

Tonight’s sunset tour was one to beat! We traveled out of Friday Harbor northbound along Orcas Island. Recent sightings of cetaceans around Patos and Sucia island meant we had a direct route we were following. Going to these far-north islands was our mission, and we weren’t letting anything distract us!

By the time we passed through President’s Channel in between Waldron Island and Orcas Island, we knew to keep our eyes out for exhales...

Wednesday, July 4th | M/V Sea Lion

After catching the Friday Harbor 4th of July parade, Captain Pete, naturalist Jordan and I were pumped to get out on the water and see what the day had in store! We boarded the M/V Sea Lion and heard a report of a humpback whale milling about near Lawson Reef on the southeast side of Lopez Island! We made our way south towards Cattle Pass where we found a large haul-out of harbor seals soaking in the sun before the clouds rolled in. Looking down...

The San Juans are already starting to swell with its annual influx of patriotic patrons. Festivities are held across the island, and include events such as a blind-folded dingy race, a community BBQ, beach cook-outs, cocktail hour, and, of course, fireworks! Whatever your speed, San Juan Island has the perfect 4th of July celebration for you.

Reuben Tarte County Park

For those seeking a quieter, star-gazing type of evening, decorated by far-off fireworks, Reuben Tarte is the place...