"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.
Click on the pictures below to learn more.
Orcas of the Salish Sea (Adult)
Take a deep dive with us to learn about the orcas of the Salish Sea!
Available spots
Service Description
**This class must have 6 participants to proceed** $280 non-refundable deposit due at booking, remaining balance due one week prior to the course. Join The Salish Sea School for an Extended Weekend Adventure, a hands-on learning experience designed to deepen your knowledge of the orcas that call these waters home. This immersive course goes beyond orca identification—it explores their social structures, communication, hunting strategies, and behaviors, offering a comprehensive look at what makes these whales so unique. You’ll also gain insight into the critical role their environment plays in their survival. Through expert-led lessons and time on the water, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation for these incredible whales and discover ways to support their conservation. What’s Included? Virtual meet and greet on September 15th from 6-7 pm. Two full days on the water to observe orcas in the wild while learning from expert naturalists and captains. An island stop is included. (Sept 20 and 21, 12:00-7:00pm (each day will enjoy a magnificent sunset!) Times are subject to change based on weather forecasts. Exclusive lessons on killer whales before and after each boat trip. Virtual sessions with leading orca researchers: Intro Zoom with lead TSSS staff and local orca researcher – Zoom session (date/time: TBD) Dr. Holly Fearnbach (SR3) – Zoom session (October 21, 2025) For overnight accomodation ideas, please email amy@thesalishseaschool.org for a great suggestion! A private Discord community for continued discussions and networking. Location & Enrollment All lessons and boat trips launch from Skyline Marina, Anacortes. In-person participation only – no virtual enrollment available.
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
(360)-230-8018
info@thesalishseaschool.org
2201 Skyline Way, Anacortes, WA, USA