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Tufted Puffin Research Expedition (TOUR)

A Small Group Tufted Puffin Research Expedition Ecotour

Ended
279 US dollars
2201 Skyline Marina, Anacortes

Service Description

Join us for an exclusive small group expedition to Smith Island, where we’ll spend 3 hours anchored off of Smith Island gaining valuable insights into tufted puffins. This in-depth research experience is designed for curious birders eager to contribute to real-world conservation. We’ll gather data on puffin burrow usage, provide critical information to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), and observe the forage fish these endangered birds rely on. Participants will have the unique opportunity to make detailed behavioral observations, enhancing our understanding of puffin feeding habits and their broader ecology. The expedition is open to birders of all levels, and photographers are encouraged—especially if they are willing to share their photos for research purposes. Your contributions will help document puffin behavior and support conservation efforts to protect these remarkable seabirds. Please note that this trip takes place in open waters on The Salish Sea School's 22 foot vessel. There are indoor and outdoor seating opportunities available and a small camping toilet with a curtain for privacy. Those prone to seasickness should take proper medications precautions before joining as we will be in open waters. We will reschedule in the event of bad winds/weather.

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: While Tufted Puffin sightings are the goal, they are never guaranteed. Wildlife is wild, and every Salish Sea adventure is unique. The safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority. Conditions on the water can change rapidly, and marine forecasts are not always accurate. Our captains continuously monitor current weather conditions, sea state, forecasts, and local observations to ensure the safest and most enjoyable experience possible. For the safety and comfort of our participants, the captain may alter the route, destination, itinerary, duration, or activities of any excursion due to wind, weather, sea state, wildlife considerations, or other conditions. If Smith Island is not safely accessible, the trip will continue as a wildlife excursion in more protected waters. Refunds will not be issued due to itinerary changes or the absence of Tufted Puffin sightings. When possible, guests will be notified of a weather-related cancellation as early as possible. However, because conditions can change quickly, weather decisions may occasionally need to be made on the day of departure. Any operational decisions made by the captain are final. If we are unable to safely operate an excursion, guests will be offered the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. Staff who assist with rescheduling do not work weekends. If a trip is canceled over a weekend, we will contact you on the next business day.

Contact Details

(360)-230-8018

info@thesalishseaschool.org

2201 Skyline Way, Anacortes, WA, USA

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