The following outdoor recreation and eco-tourism operators have been independently evaluated by Project SeaWolf staff. Those displaying the SeaWolf logo have received our endorsements and recommendations as an 'environmentally responsible' operator. *SeaWolf Approved* designations are based on objective evaluations of services provided by these companies; consideration is given to the operator's knowledge and ethical behaviour around wildlife species, as well as their safety and client satisfaction record. To examine the main instrument used by SeaWolf reviewers to evaluate businesses, please open this Please note that Project SeaWolf takes no payment for reviewing and/or endorsing tour operators... any outdoor business interested in being considered for a review is encouraged to contact SeaWolf via email or by phone.
PLEASE PATRONISE BUSINESSES WITH THIS LOGO!
Write to us at Project SeaWolf/ECOS, P.O. Box 929, Marysville, WA 98270.
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Project SeaWolf, a unique ecosystem protection program situated in the Northwest Straits region bordering British Columbia, Canada and Washington State in the USA, was developed by Michael Kundu, an internationally known environmental activist and adventuresports photojournalist.
UPDATED June 2006! - Many businesses make the claim that they operate in "environmentally conscious" manners -- now, ECOS is available to help you make that determination. If you want to make sure that your eco-tourism dollars are spent responsibly, then we hope you will read the following reviews.
Adobe .pdf document.
Be aware that Project SeaWolf makes assessments and recommendations as a third party and hereby will not assume any responsibility for the services provided through our recommendations.
To join the SeaWolf Society, link hereJUMP STATION
Whale Watching & Marine Related Businesses
Kayaking, Rafting & Riversports Businesses
Scuba Diving & Underwater Sports Related Businesses
Hiking, Climbing, Skiing & Mountaineering Businesses
Other Extreme & Adventuresports Business
Inns, Bed-&-Breakfasts, Cabins & Retreats
Environmental Businesses & Services *These links help protect wildlife!*
* FEATURE BUSINESSES for SUMMER 2006!*
Island Dive and Watersports - Top Scuba Outfitter in Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, WA. 800.378.2772
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Originally founded in 1999, Island Dive is now owned and operated by Dawn and Mike Hilliard. Active with SeaWolf's Youth Educational Adventure Program, this scuba company has a true environmental ethic and shows evidence of that approach in all of their field charters and tours. We highly recommend that anyone diving the Pacific Northwest make a trip to see Dawn and Mike, and join them on one of the area's best underwater dive destinations. You'll learn from their knowledge and appreciate the interpretative program that Dawn delivers to all her dive clients! Visit Island Dive at www.divesanjuan.com
Smokey Point Diving - Serving North Snohomish & Skagit Counties, Arlington, WA. 877.PNT.DIVE
*APPROVAL PENDING*
A new full-service dive outfitter and retail shop owned by Tim King, who volunteers with the Seattle Aquarium. Tim, who is an avid underwater photographer, and sons, Aaron, Steve and Chris are seeking to train more certified divers so they might enjoy some excellent dive sites in the northwest. Visit their location at www.smokeypointdiving.com
Village Island Native Cultural Tours, Vancouver Island, BC. 877.282.8294
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Village Island Tours is a First Nations owned and operated Ecotourism company, offering grizzly bear and whale viewing, sea kayaking, water taxi services, and Aboriginal Cultural boat tours in the Broughton Archipelago region of British Columbia. Owner Tom Sewid is also chairman of the Province's 'Aboriginal Tourism' Agency, and is the recipient of many environmental awards. Tom was involved in the reunification of Springer, the orphan orca whale relocated to BC in the early part of the decade. Tom's tours are authentic, ethical and highly educational learning opportunities. Visit Tom's site at www.villageisland.com
SeaQuest Expeditions/Zoetic Research, Friday Harbor, WA. 888-589-4253 (WHALE) or 360.378.5767
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Ecologically-conscious sea kayaking outfitter; Martine Springer & staff offer entry to expert level sea kayak tours in the San Juan Islands, Alaska and Mexico. Their San Juan Island kayak tours are filled with opportunities for responsible orca whale and other marine mammal viewing. click on the image to the right to travel to their website, or go to www.sea-quest-kayak.com/whales.htm.
Western Prince Cruises, San Juan Island, WA. 800.757.6722
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Western Prince Cruises was selected as the Friday Harbor charter operation to conduct the original "OrcaQuest 2001" in 2002 - the company helped introduce regional orca biology to 16 grade 4 students from Tulalip Elementary School that year. WWOANW Member.
Brandy Knight Realty - The Environmentalist's Choice Realtor! Snohomish County WA. 425.418.0870
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Brandy Knight is a passionate environmental advocate and Keller Williams Real Estate agent, who dedicates a percentage of her commissions to support Snohomish County environmental causes and conservation work. Brandy represents the kind of eco-savvy professional that environmental enthusiasts are encouraged to contact - particularly if you intend to buy or sell property in Snohomish County, WA! Visit Brandy's site at www.BrandyKnight.comWhale Watching Businesses/Marine Related
Mosquito Fleet Whale Watching, Everett, WA. 800.325.ORCA (6722)
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
One of WA's senior whale watching enterprises, lead by Captain Mike Bennett. Mosquito Fleet runs comprehensive, ecosystem-wide programming onboard their vessels. Bennett is active in marine conservation matters and is a leader in proactive whale education initiatives. WWOANW Member.
Maya's Whale Watch Charters, Friday Harbor, WA. 360.378.7996
*APPROVAL PENDING*
Jim Maya, who has lead SeaWolf's Youth Educational Adventure student charters for the past 5 years, is an excellent resource and authority on the local Southern Resident Orca Whale pods and other wildlife in the San Juan Islands. His small, intimate tours are the best way to experience the natural wonder of this vital coastal ecosystem. WWOANW Member.
Stubbs Island Whale Watching, Telegraph Cove, BC. 800.665.3066
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Premier Canadian whale watching operation; Captain Jim Borrowman, an exceptional whale advocate and conservationist, lead the effort to change public attitudes toward orca whales in the NW; his premier charter operations are clearly the finest offered in the entire BC province.
Private Boat Tours, Everett/LaConner, WA. 877.968.3633
*APPROVAL PENDING*
Operated by "Captain Hollywood" (Dale Martinis), Private Boat Tours routinely educates riders about marine ecology, from pinnicle predator species' to minute phyto and zooplankton. Martinis holds an excellent and co-operative relationship with local whale biologists and industry colleagues. WWOANW Member.
San Juan Safaris, San Juan Island, WA. 800.450.6858
*APPROVAL PENDING*
Bill Wright (a trained interpretative naturalist and eco-tourism consultant) and Colleen Johansen have been active stewards of marine wildlife, including the southern resident orcas, for many years. They focus on a philosophy that introduces riders to the 'entire' marine ecosystem and the diversity of species' in the region. WWOANW Member.
Bon Accord Charters, Friday Harbor, WA. 360.378.6670
*APPROVAL PENDING*
Bon Accord's original Captain Rik Karon is one of the most conscientious pilots in the San Juans. He pilots his 30-foot vessel in strict adherence of whale-watch regulations and is a supporter of the WWOA-NW. Today, Bon Accord's new owners have continued Karon's legacy by being the only San Juan operator that runs their mothership on 100% biodeisel feul, reducing toxic emissions and protecting wildlife (and passengers!) alike. WWOANW Member.
SpringTide Charters, Victoria, BC. 250.386.6016
*APPROVAL PENDING*
Whale-watching by high-speed zodiac inflatables. Dan Kukat's operation is one of the few zodiac whale tours we would recommend, based on our observations of their pilotage and conscientious radio-communications around whales in the summer of 2000. SpringTide is also the sole Victoria-based operation with a perfect client safety record. WWOANW Member.
Friday Harbor Tours, Inc., Friday Harbor, WA. 800.232.6722
*APPROVAL PENDING*
Darrell Roberts operates the "Blackfish," an intimate, 12-person whale-watching vessel served by one of the most knowledgable naturalists in the region. Captain Roberts is an active member with the WWOA-NW and holds one of the Island's best reputations as a pilot around orca whales. WWOANW Member.
Deer Harbor Charters, Orcas Island, WA. 360.376.5989
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Intimate whale watching operation; Captain Tom Averna is responsible and conscious about approach distances and harrassment of whales. His vessel pilotage around marine wildlife sets the standard for ethical boater pilot behaviour. WWOANW Member.Orcas Island Eclipse Charters, Orcas Island, WA. 800.376.6566
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Highly Enjoyable Whale Watching Tours; Dan and Denise Wilk are deeply committed to the preservation of whales in the Northwest. Their vessel, the 42-foot Eclipse 1, was featured in Hollywood's "Free Willy 2." Their approaches are responsible and complete with top-notch interpretation lectures from an on-board naturalist. WWOANW Member.Fairweather Water Taxi & Whale Tours, Roche Harbor, WA. 360-378-8029 (NO WEBSITE)
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Whale Tours aboard a Russian Hydrofoil; Captain Lisa Lamb is one of the most passionate and active marine wildife advocates in the San Juans. Her small tour-and-water taxi service is both intimate, respectful of the whales and charming in the rural San Juan fashion -- Highly Recommended! WWOANW Member.
Western Prince Cruises, San Juan Island, WA. 800.757.6722
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Luxury Class Whale Watching Operation; Cruise with the island company that founded San Juan Island whalewatching. Jean & Bob Van Leuvin's history includes over 2,000 tours and 30,000 satisfied customers. Jean is very active in local efforts to protect gray whales from new hunting threats, and their understanding and respect of regional orca pods reflect this commitment. WWOANW Member.Kayaking/Rafting & Riversports Businesses
Northern Lights Expeditions, Bellingham, WA. 800.754.7402
Magnificent, unforgettable sea kayaking expeditions in Northern British Columbia. Owner David Arcese is an enviromental activist who incorporates environmental education and wildlife advocacy in his eco-tourism enterprise. Specialising in wilderness and sailboat-supported bear and whale habitat sea kayaking tours.Guidelines For Paddling With Marine Wildlife
Chinook Expeditions, Index, WA. 800.241.3451
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
High Energy Whitewater Rafting; Chinook Expeditions, one of the finest whitewater rafting companies in Washington, is lead by Shane Turnbull who has guided thousands of whitewater trips since the early 1970s. Natural history, interpretation and high-caliber raft piloting are the hallmark of this operation.
Scuba Diving & Underwater Sports Related Businesses
Island Dive and Watersports - Top Scuba Outfitter in Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, WA. 800.378.2772
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Originally founded in 1999, Island Dive is now owned and operated by Dawn and Mike Hilliard. Active with SeaWolf's Youth Educational Adventure Program, this scuba company has a true environmental ethic and shows evidence of that approach in all of their field charters and tours. We highly recommend that anyone diving the Pacific Northwest make a trip to see Dawn and Mike, and join them on one of the area's best underwater dive destinations. You'll learn from their knowledge and appreciate the interpretative program that Dawn delivers to all her dive clients! Visit Island Dive at www.divesanjuan.comSmokey Point Diving - Serving North Snohomish & Skagit Counties, Arlington, WA. 877.PNT.DIVE
*APPROVAL PENDING*
A new full-service dive outfitter and retail shop owned by Tim King, who volunteers with the Seattle Aquarium. Tim, who is an avid underwater photographer, and sons, Aaron, Steve and Chris are seeking to train more certified divers so they might enjoy some excellent dive sites in the northwest. Visit their location at www.smokeypointdiving.com
Harry Truitt's Lighthouse Diving Centers in WA. 800.303.8386
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Harry Truitt's Lighthouse Dive Centers in Lynnwood, Kent, Seattle and Tacoma, are owner operated and run by one of the region's most prolific dive enthusiast and leader. Truitt is a concerned diver who focuses on fisheries habitat restoration work and informing his clients about the importance of a strong sustainable marine ecosystem. His shops carry some of the best name equipment available for all level of divers. Truitt's centers are also SeaWolf-approved facilities! Visit Island Dive at www.lighthousediving.com
Northwest Sports Divers, Bothell, WA. 425.487.0624
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Excellent local dive instruction, certification and equipment retailer. Owners Cindy and Tim Gurno and Chris Jacobson are highly skilled and conscientious about protecting marine habitat and wildlife, and effectively impart these values to their pupils.Hiking, Climbing, Skiing & Mountaineering Businesses
Mountain Madness Climbing School, Seattle, WA. 800.328.5925
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Professional Alpine & Technical Climbing/Expedition Services lead by renown climber Christine Boskoff; World renown climbing academy founded by the late Scott Fisher; they endorse and support the national education program "Leave No Trace" designed to educate wildland user
groups about minimum impact camping. All of their outings promote an abiding respect and appreciation for the wild places that they visit.
Cascade Crags Indoor Climbing Gym, Everett WA. 425.258.3431
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Indoor Climbing Gym (*Including Innovative Indoor (Dry-tool) Ice Climbing Practise Route*) & Mountaineering Equipment Retailer ; Northend climbing location providing classes and hundreds of routes/options ranging from crack climbing to overhang/bouldering practise routes. Mike Palmer, co-owner of Cascade Crags
is an advocate for responsible use of outdoor recreation areas. Cascade Crags also operates family and youth climbing programs in-house which encourage children to develop an interest in healthy outdoor recreation activities.
North Cascades Heli-Skiing, Mazama, WA. 800.494.HELI
The Best (and Only) Heli-Skiing Operation in Washington State. Tours guided by Randy Sackett, mountaineering and ski touring guide previously with the Wasatch Powder Brigade Ski Patrol. Heli-tours offered in Okanagan National Forest & the Pasayten Wilderness Mountain Range. Exhilarating!Other Extreme & Adventuresports Business
North American Paragliding, Inc., Ellensburg, WA. 800.727.2354
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Safety Conscious Paraglider Training; North American Paragliding, Inc., the longest running paragliding school in the Northwest, offers consistent, quality instruction by World renouned USHGA Advanced Certified Instructor Mike Eberle.
Inns, Bed-&-Breakfasts, Cabins & Retreats
Freestone Inn, Mazama, WA. 800.639.3809
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Luxerious wilderness retreat and launch-point for wilderness cross-country skiing, heli-skiing (heliport on site) and backcountry hiking. Romantic western theme with very modern conveniences. Travel & Leisure magazine rates it as "...one of the 25 Great American Lodges."
"Run Of The River" Inn, Leavenworth, WA. 800.288.6491
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
A truly romantic and inspirational retreat in the heart of Leavenworth, situated on the banks of the Icicle River. Charming, memorable and enchanting solitude in a marriage of New England and North Cascadian styles. Rated "One of the Best Places to Kiss" in Washington.
Mazama Ranch House, Mazama, WA. 509.996.2040
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the Mazama Ranch House sits directly on the 175 km. of Methow Valley ski trails. Authentic western flair and down-home hospitality. Great for families and groups -- one of our picks for the 'best Washington family destinations!"
North Cascades Base Camp, Mazama, WA. 509.996.2334
Rustic, sheltered retreat lying among fragrant cedars and the banks of the Methow River. Non-pretentious, comfortable atmosphere that reflects the simple yet historically appealing Withrop area character. Good access to local backcountry trails for hiking and skiing.Mazama Country Inn, Mazama, WA. 800.843.7951
A traditional mountain lodge siting in the sheltered pine forests of the Methow Valley. The lodge's restaurant is renown for its family-style meals served in a communal dining area around a Russian stone fireplace. Pragmatic architecture includes nooks for private reading and relaxing.
Environmental Businesses & Services
PLEASE SUPPORT WHALE PROTECTION! When you enter these links and patronise the following (only!) retailers through the ECOS website, a contribution is returned to help protect orca whales and other marine wildlife species! PLEASE CONSIDER THESE SITES FOR ALL YOUR OUTDOOR NEEDS -- AND REMEMBER, PLEASE ENTER THEIR SITES THROUGH THIS 'ECOS' PAGE!
Cascade Designs, Seattle, WA. 800.531.9531
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Ecologically Responsible Outdoor Equipment Manufacturer; World Renown for their Seal-Line Dry Bags, ThermaRests & other Outdoor Hardgoods.
Click here to buy scuba gear online!
Pacific Water Sports, SeaTac, WA. (NO WEBSITE) (206) 246-9385
*SEAWOLF APPROVED*
Operated by Lee and Judy Moyer, this sea kayak/watersport outfitter and retailer carries some of the best systems available. The moyers are dedicated to water quality protection and active with the Puget Soundkeeper Alliance.Other Environmentally-Related Links of Worth, Integrity & Significance
WaveLength Magasine: This BC Publication (& Website) is a Must-Read for Anyone Interested in NW Paddling
Dick Russell's Book "Eye of the Whale"; Newly Released, This Book is destined to Become a Best-Seller!
SARBC: British Columbia Search-&-Rescue Website -- Complete SAR Info Site
Sea Shepherd Conservation Society: The Most Effective Anti-Whaling Group in Existence
Sports Etc./Women's Sports Etc. Magasine: The Northwest's Best Multi-Sport Magasine
Cold Mountain Ice Climbing Homepage: The Comprehensive Web Authority on Ice Climbing
Mountain Equipment Co-Op: The Most Environmentally-Friendly Source for Outdoor Gear
Trailhead Outfitter: Small But Responsible Canadian Retailer
Breach Marine Protection UK: An Active Whale Preservation Group In England
The Whale Museum in Friday Harbor, WA: Interpretive Center for Marine Wildlife Enthusiasts
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