Passenger Ferries & Charters

Activities

In addition to its role as the southern home port of the Alaska ferry, Bellingham Cruise Terminal (BCT) is home port to a diverse fleet of charter vessels offering unique, on-the-water experiences. From BCT, you can:
  • Reserve a seat aboard one of several charter vessels cruising the San Juan Islands
  • Sail on the Zodiac, a historic wooden sailing schooner, around Bellingham Bay or through the Islands
  • View wildlife and Pacific Northwest orca whales in their natural surroundings on a whale-watching cruise
Vessel Charter Operators


The Bellingham Cruise Terminal is also home port to a number of charter businesses offering boat trips in/around the San Juan Islands including Friday Harbor.  These trips range from a half day to weekly excursions. Contact the businesses below for more details.

Whale Watching

Bellingham’s close proximity to the San Juan Islands makes it the perfect location to set off on a whale-watching adventure. The San Juan Islands, which are just a short, scenic ride away, are known for their picturesque views of wildlife, including orca whales (Orcinus orca). Many orcas, living in groups called pods, make the islands their year-round home. View them in their natural setting aboard local charter vessels operating daily during the summer months.