About Us


I have been involved in the maritime industry for over 40 years and recently retired from Oregon State University Research Ship "Wecoma" which included scientific research of whales to sampling the bottom of the ocean to name a few. We were the first and original zodiac style whale watching boat on the Oregon Coast. We have been inspected by the state of Oregon and have all the latest safety equipment. I hope you will join us on a exciting whale watching excursion aboard the “Whales Tail”.

Here’s some of my Credential’s

Licensed – U.S. Merchant Marine Officer

Licensed – Master of Steam, Motor or Sailing vessels of not more than 100 gross tons upon oceans.

Licensed – Mate of Steam or Motor vessels of not more than 1600 gross tons upon ocean’s.

Licensed – Radar Observer Unlimited / ARPA, automatic radar plotting, Unlimited.

Licensed – Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, GMDSS Radio Operator’s License.

FCC licensed for use of Global Maritime Distress and Safety System radios on board any vessel.

Certificate of Celestial Navigation Ocean’s, Unlimited.

Certificate of Ships Security Officer, Pacific Maritime Institute.

Certification – STCW Endorsement
Endorsement attesting the issue of a certificate under the provisions of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watch keeping for Seafarers,
Capacity: Officer in charge of a navigational watch (1600 gross tons upon ocean’s), Proficient in taking charge of Medical Care.

Certification – U.S. Merchant Mariner’s Document
Holds the following ratings and endorsements: Engine Room, Medical Care, Lifeboatman, Fast Rescue Boats, Any Deck Rating Including Able Seaman.

Certification – Transportation Worker Identification Credential, TWIC

Training – Completed Basic and Advanced Maritime Firefighting in compliance with STCW.

Training – Completed assessment in Bridge Team work Procedures, Bridge Resource Management.

Training – Completed Shipboard Safety Training in compliance with STCW.

Training – Completed Person in Charge of Medical Care in accordance with STCW.


The Whales Tail, it is a 26' zodiac style boat that carries up to 6 people. It was designed specifically to give passengers the utmost in sightseeing and whale watching experiences. This is a very unique experience that puts you "up close and personal" for observing Oregon's resident gray whales. Here you can enjoy the incredible scenery of the Oregon Coast, transit the worlds smallest navigable channel, and enjoy watching gray whales, humpback whales, orca whales, seals, sea lions, and other marine life. Don't be surprised if you notice the whales watching you as intently as you watch them. We try to provide you and your family a once in a lifetime experience that is not to be missed along with some great memories. I hope you will join us on the Whales Tail.

View our website at: The Whales Tail Chartered Whale Watching

Whale's Tail Charters
80 S. Hwy 101
Depoe Bay, Oregon 97341

Phone: 541-921-1323