"the mountain and the sea are excellent schoolmasters, and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books." -john lubbock
Meet Our Team
The Salish Sea School is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, inclusion, and connectedness. We are able to grow and learn better together with a diverse team. We welcome the unique contributions that one can bring in terms of their education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, veteran’s status, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation and beliefs.
We are stronger together with the collective sum of individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, innovation, self-expression, and talent which ultimately brings about a healthier planet.
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Orcas, Puffins, Islands & Beyond II 2026
Connect with orcas, puffins, islands and all of the amazing wildlife of the Salish Sea!
Available spots
Service Description
Orcas, Puffins, Islands and Beyond: A Naturalist Course This is a dynamic naturalist program designed for those passionate about marine life. Through the course of this immersive experience you will explore the interconnected world of orcas, tufted puffins, kelp forests, plankton, salmon hatcheries, and marine birds. This 5-session experiential learning series includes four boat excursions to look for cetaceans in the Salish Sea. There will also be visits to at least three islands, granting you a deeper appreciation and understanding of the diverse and interconnected marine life within the vibrant ecosystems of the Salish Sea. One visit will be to the Orcas Island Glenwood Springs Hatchery, the other islands might include: James Island, Matia Island, Sucia Island, Jones Island, Vendovi Island, or Cypress Island. We purposefully curate a small, in-person, community learning experience (up to 6 participants per group). There are no virtual enrollment options for this course. All lessons and boat trips will launch from Skyline Marina in Anacortes, Washington. In the event of a weather delay, we will reschedule the trip.
Upcoming Sessions
Cancellation Policy
The Salish Sea School – Cancellation & Refund Policy Because our programs require advance staffing, vessel scheduling, permits, and preparation, all bookings include a 25% non-refundable deposit, unless otherwise noted below. Refund policies vary by program type. All cancellations must be submitted in writing and received within the timeframes listed below. To ensure fairness and consistency for all participants, exceptions to this policy cannot be made, including for weather, illness, or personal emergencies, unless explicitly stated. Wildlife Tours & On-Water Programs More than 72 hours (3 days) before departure: You may cancel or reschedule your booking. The 25% deposit is retained, and the remaining 75% of your payment will be refunded. Within 72 hours of departure: Refunds or rescheduling are not available unless we are able to fill your spot. If we successfully resell it, you will receive a refund minus the 25% deposit. No-shows or missed boats: No refunds are available for no-shows. Weather & Safety: If The Salish Sea School cancels a program due to unsafe weather or conditions, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule. Non-Wildlife Programs (Spring, Fall, and Winter Programs) Cancellations made at least 5 days prior to the course start date: Your class fee will be refunded, less the 25% processing fee. Cancellations made fewer than 5 days before the course start date: No refunds are available. Summer Programs 91 or more days prior to session start date: Refundable, minus credit card processing fees and a $250 deposit. 61–90 days prior to session start date: Refundable, minus credit card processing fees and 50% of full tuition. 0–60 days prior to session start date: Non-refundable. The Pulse (Virtual Continuing Education Program) - No refunds are available for this program. Participant Requirements for small boat tours- The maximum weight limit for each participant is 250 pounds.
Contact Details
2201 Skyline Way, Anacortes, WA, USA
(360)-230-8018
info@thesalishseaschool.org