About Deer Harbor Charters
Whale watch cruise aboard Squito
Enjoy an unforgettable, informative and narrated cruise through the San Juan Islands in search of Orcas (Killer Whales) and Minke Whales. The thrill of seeing one of these majestic creatures will be an experience you will never forget.
Discover the “other” abundant marine life and wildlife, besides the whales that call these waters home. You’ll pass by unspoiled, pristine islands and historical landmarks.
We are the first company in the Whale Watch Operators Association Northwest to use BIO DIESEL in our boats. This new fuel will help keep harmful emissions down. We challenge all of the whale watching companies in the Northwest to follow us and create a cleaner environment for us and the marine life we cherish.
THE BOATS
Pelagic at dock
The U.S.C.G. certified SQUITO is the first whale watch boat in the San Juan Islands. Comfortable inside seating as well as outside viewing decks make Squito a great all-weather family boat.
PELAGIC, is a 36′ vessel that is licensed for 20 passengers. Pelagic was built in Maine in 1999 and is a lobster boat design. This design has been used by commercial operators for over 75 years! Stable, fast and roomy, Pelagic is equipped with a modern cleaner burning diesel meeting the latest EPA standards. Small groups on board mean more personalized service and a more informative experience.
* Our boats are equipped with hydrophones for listening to the whales vocalize.
THE CREW
Each trip will have on board a trained professional naturalist who will maintain an educational, informative dialogue regarding the natural history, distribution and habits of the whales and other wildlife.
THE OWNER
Tom Averna
Tom Averna established and operated Deer Harbor Charters since 1988, making it the longest running whale watching business on Orcas Island. Tom has a background in marine science and has been a professional captain for 30 years. Tom is also the first elected president of the Whalewatch Operators Association, Northwest.
PROFESSIONAL
All of our captains and crew are licensed and trained. Most are local residents of the San Juan Islands.