Port Angeles is a perfect launching point for exploring the waters of the Olympic Peninsula. With its proximity to Sequim Bay, the Salish Sea, and abundant wildlife, it offers some fantastic boat experiences. If you’re craving a hands-on sailing adventure, the Sailing Charter on the Ingrid Princess promises a chance to hoist sails and learn the ropes.
For wildlife lovers, the Port Townsend Wildlife Watching Cruise provides a memorable three-hour experience spotting whales and other marine creatures.
Both tours showcase the region’s natural beauty from the water, but each offers a very different way to experience the area.
In this guide, we’ll explore these two top boat tours, highlighting their unique features and helping you decide which will make your visit to Port Angeles truly special.
Quick Overview
Our list of best boat tours includes two standout options:
- The Sailing Charter on the Ingrid Princess, for those interested in a hands-on sailing experience that immerses you in the Salish Sea (details here).
- The Port Townsend Wildlife Watching Cruise, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see whales, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitat (details here).
Now, let’s get into what makes each of these tours worth considering.
1. Sailing Charter
At number one on our list is the Sailing Charter aboard the Ingrid Princess. This full keel ketch is an ocean-going vessel that offers a variety of day sailing options out of Sequim Bay. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a complete novice, this tour makes sailing accessible and engaging.
You’ll have the opportunity to take the helm, hoist the sails, and trim the sheets, giving you a real taste of what it’s like to command a classic vessel.
The itinerary is flexible, with options to customize your experience if the scheduled departures don’t suit your plans. The three-hour sails provide plenty of time to enjoy majestic views of the Olympic Peninsula and observe wildlife in the Salish Sea, including sea lions, bald eagles, and seabirds.
The captain is experienced and eager to share sailing techniques with guests, making this a unique and educational trip.
The price is $195 per person, which reflects the personalized nature of the experience and the chance to get hands-on with a storied vessel.
One review notes the “friendly captain and beautiful scenery”, highlighting the relaxed atmosphere that makes this tour ideal for both families and solo travelers. The main draw is the authentic sailing experience, not just a sightseeing cruise.
Bottom Line: If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to steer a sailboat and love the idea of actively participating in the voyage, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable adventure on the water.
2. Port Townsend Wildlife Watching Cruise
For those more interested in wildlife and the natural environment, the Port Townsend Wildlife Watching Cruise is tough to beat. Departing from Port Townsend, this three-hour tour is designed to give you a close look at marine mammals, seabirds, and other creatures in their natural habitat.
It’s a relaxing trip that emphasizes observation rather than hands-on sailing, making it perfect for nature lovers or families with children.
While reviews are not yet available, this cruise offers the chance to see whales, orcas, seals, and bald eagles in their native environment, which is a highlight for many travelers. The boat is well-equipped for wildlife viewing, with open decks and spotting scopes if needed. The price is $139 per person, offering a decent value for a focused wildlife experience.
The tour runs during the best times of year for whale migrations and bird activity, making it an excellent choice during spring and summer.
The tour is suitable for all fitness levels and ages, and the crew are knowledgeable about the local ecosystem. Be prepared for unpredictable weather—bringing layers and a camera is a must.
Bottom Line: If your main goal is to see whales and enjoy a scenic cruise with a good chance of wildlife sightings, this tour offers a solid, relaxed option.
How to Choose
Selecting between these two exciting boat options depends largely on what you’re looking for. If you want hands-on sailing and a chance to learn about sailing techniques in a relaxed environment, the Sailing Charter is your best bet. It’s ideal for active travelers wanting a more immersive experience.
Conversely, if your priority is wildlife viewing and a peaceful cruise in search of orcas and seals, the Port Townsend Wildlife Watching Cruise offers a focused, scenic adventure.
Consider your budget—at $195, the sailing trip is more expensive but offers a richer, hands-on experience. The wildlife cruise, at $139, provides a more laid-back, observation-oriented outing. Think about your time constraints; the three-hour tours are manageable for most schedules, but make sure to book early during peak whale watching seasons.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular sailing dates or wildlife seasons. Also, check the weather forecast and dress accordingly—water can be chilly even on sunny days.
Final Thoughts
Both tours showcase the stunning waters around Port Angeles, each with its own charm. The Sailing Charter offers a chance to learn sailing techniques and enjoy a quiet day on the water, perfect for adventure lovers. Meanwhile, the Wildlife Watching Cruise provides an excellent opportunity to see whales and seabirds in their natural environment without the physical effort of sailing.
For practical, memorable experiences, consider your interests and choose the one that fits your style. Both tours fill up quickly during peak seasons, so don’t delay in booking. Whether you prefer to steer your own course or simply enjoy watching whales breach, the waters off Port Angeles are ready to welcome you aboard.