Petersburg Wildlife Viewing
Whale Watching

photo of Whale Watching area wildlife Hop on a whale watching trip from Petersburg for consistent, and often spectacular, marine mammal viewing. Hundreds of humpback whales feed in the waters near Petersburg during the summer months. Along with humpbacks, look for killer whales, Dall’s porpoises, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, marbled murrelets, scoters and pigeon guillemots. Whale watching trips start running in May, with whales seen on most trips. The prime months for whale watching near Petersburg are July and August, when most humpbacks have returned from their winter grounds in Hawaii. Before or after your trip, stop by Petersburg’s Marine Mammal Center, which has displays and an interactive computer terminal with information about the marine mammals in the area. Check with the Visitor’s Center for information on hours and location of this growing center, or visit their website at http://www.psgmmc.org.

Habitat

Most boats head to the area where Frederick Sound meets Stephens Passage, a rich feeding area for marine mammals and birds.

Species

  • Dall's Porpoise
  • Harbor Seal
  • Humpback Whale
  • Killer Whale
  • Marbled Murrelet
  • Pigeon Guillemot
  • Steller's Sea Lion
  • Surf Scoter

Hints

Many whale watching boats have an on-board naturalist to answer questions and enrich your viewing experience.

Facilities

  • Fee
  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Within Walking Distance

Notes

Not all boats are wheelchair accessible, so be sure to inquire about accessibility when booking your tour. Guided whale watching trips by kayak are also available; check with the Visitor’s Center for information.

Plan to spend at least: 6 - 8 hours +

Best Months

█ Best Month

  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • Best Month May
  • Best Month June
  • Best Month July
  • Best Month August
  • September
  • October
  • November
  • December

Directions

Whale watching boats in Petersburg take six people per trip, and booking months in advance is advised. It is sometimes, though not often, possible to find same- or next-day space on a tour while in town. Check with the Visitor’s Bureau or look for posted signs around town for information on last-minute bookings.

Contact

Petersburg Visitor Information Center - (907) 772-4636 or http://www.petersburg.org