An Immersive Six-Month Naturalist Journey into the World of Salish Sea Orcas

Unite with Fellow Orca-Nerds for an Educational Adventure

Embark on a six-part series that combines educational experiences with unforgettable community-building moments. This journey includes an orca art night, a ferry trip to Friday Harbor to visit the Orca Survey Center, four exhilarating 4-5 hour boat excursions with in-person lessons, discussions about certain orca family groups (and optional assignments to follow their movements via socials!), and 2-3 exclusive Zoom sessions with leading orca experts.

Our comprehensive course offers a dive into the natural history, environmental challenges, and conservation efforts that shape the lives of the majestic orcas in the Salish Sea. As you learn and explore, you'll also connect with like-minded orca-nerds from across the region, forging lifelong friendships and a strong community united by a shared passion for these awe-inspiring creatures.

Join us for this one-of-a-kind opportunity to expand your knowledge, contribute to orca conservation, and become part of a vibrant, lasting network of fellow orca enthusiasts.

Photo by Kelsey Scott

Throughout the series, you will:

Dive into the diverse topics related to Salish Sea orcas, including learning about (and following) different family groups.
Explore various environmental issues impacting local orca populations and discover ways you can make a positive impact.
Embark on four guided boat field trips out of Anacortes, WA to observe these awe-inspiring creatures and other incredible marine life firsthand and even drop a hydrophone in if the setting is right!
Create a beautiful orca mug during our introductory group gathering at The Clay House, Anacortes.
Engage with renowned orca experts, including virtual meetings with Dr. Deborah Giles (Wild Orca) and Holly Fernbach (SR3), and an in-person experience at the Orca Survey Center in Friday Harbor.
Connect with like-minded individuals and build lasting friendships within a passionate community of orca enthusiasts through our unique Discord channel.
Commemorate your experience with an exclusive class t-shirt.

Join us for this incredible opportunity to deepen your appreciation for these majestic creatures and contribute to their preservation in the Salish Sea and beyond.

$1,399 per participant

Enrollment closes January 10, 2025

Enroll in Group A or Group B below

Want to dive deeper? Check out our Orcas, Puffins, Islands, and Beyond Course! Learn more here!

Orcas 101 - Bellingham edition will launch SOON for Fall 2025! Subscribe here to be notified when it opens!

"I loved this program, and was amazed at how the knowledge and enthusiasm of the other participants really made it such a special community. It was really inclusive, and we were all so excited and thrilled to be out there on the water, no matter what we saw. It was a privilege to be a part of, and I learned SO much."

Schedule for 2025:

Jan 17, 6-8PM - The Clayhouse, Anacortes - build an orca mug!

Feb 23, 10AM-3PM - Ferry to Orca Survey Center in Friday Harbor

2025 Boat trips + in-person lesson dates (launching from Anacortes):

March 23, 11AM-4PM
April 27, 11AM-4PM
May 18, 3PM-8PM
June 1, 9AM-2PM
RAINDATE: June 8

Virtual meeting with scientists:

April 23, 6PM
TBD

Enroll here! 4 spots remaining

FAQs:

1. Who is this course for?

Our course is tailored for individuals aged 18 and above who are eager to:

Deepen their understanding of the remarkable orcas inhabiting the Salish Sea.
Encounter these awe-inspiring creatures and other fascinating marine wildlife alongside a close-knit group of fellow naturalists, sharing unforgettable memories and experiences.
Cultivate meaningful, lifelong connections within a community of like-minded orca-lovers from across the region.
Gain exclusive insights and knowledge directly from leading orca experts during engaging Zoom calls, further enriching their appreciation for these magnificent animals.

2. Do I need prior knowledge of orcas?

Not at all! Our course is specifically designed to cater to both beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike. We'll begin by laying a strong foundation of knowledge about the Orcas of the Salish Sea and then further tailor the learning experience to address your group's unique questions and interests. This personalized approach ensures a dynamic and engaging journey for everyone involved, regardless of their prior knowledge.

3. Where do the boat excursions depart from?

We will meet at our Discovery Center at Skyline Marina in Anacortes, WA. A Bellingham course will be launching in September 2025! Subscribe here to be notified when it is released!

4. Do you offer a payment plan?

We do offer a 4 part payment plan. 1st non-refundable payment of $374.75 due at time of enrollment. Three remaining payments of $374.75 are due on February 1, April 1, and June 1. Email info@thesalishseaschool.org to begin.

5. Do you offer other adult programs?

Yes! Check out all of our offerings from more educational programs, art classes, to mindfulness in nature courses here!

We will also be launching a high school course SOON! Subscribe here.

Cancellation policy: Cancellation prior to 90 days prior to class start results in a full refund less cc processing fees and $362.25 deposit. No refund when cancellation is within 90 days before class starts.

"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

An Immersive Six-Month Naturalist Journey into the World of Salish Sea Orcas