Seal Jumps Onto Boat to Evade Killer Whales Near Camano Island

CAMANO ISLAND, Wash. — November 20, 2025 — A group of whale watchers off Washington’s Camano Island witnessed an unusual encounter when a seal leapt onto their boat to escape a pod of killer whales, officials said.

The incident occurred during a routine whale-watching excursion when observers noticed the seal fleeing the pursuing orcas. In an apparent bid to avoid becoming prey, the seal jumped onto the deck of the boat, providing a rare and dramatic moment for those on board.

According to authorities, the seal remained on the boat for several minutes before safely returning to the water once the killer whales moved on. The whale watchers recorded video footage of the event, which has since been shared widely on social media and among local news outlets.

Killer whales, also known as orcas, are apex predators in the Pacific Northwest and commonly hunt seals as part of their diet. While encounters between seals and orcas are frequent in the region, it is uncommon for a seal to seek refuge on a vessel.

Officials noted that the boat’s occupants did not interfere with the wildlife during the incident, allowing natural behavior to unfold. The event underscores the dynamic interactions between marine species and human observers in the area.

Camano Island is a popular destination for whale watching due to its proximity to rich marine habitats. The waters around the island are home to various marine mammals, including orcas, seals, sea lions, and gray whales.

Marine biologists emphasize the importance of maintaining safe distances and minimizing disturbances to wildlife during such excursions. The seal’s leap onto the boat was an instinctive response to a life-threatening situation rather than a sign of habituation to humans.

This encounter highlights the unpredictable nature of wildlife observation and the close relationship between predator and prey species in the Pacific Northwest’s coastal ecosystems. Authorities encourage continued responsible wildlife viewing practices to ensure the safety and well-being of both animals and people.

The footage captured by the whale watchers provides valuable insight into the behavior of seals when confronted by predators and offers a unique perspective on the challenges faced by marine animals in their natural environment.