best sailboat for san juan islands

• NW EXPLORATIONS

The 10 Best San Juan Island Boating Spots (Updated)

Ranked by Travel & Leisure as one of the top 10 island destinations in the U.S., the San Juan Islands offer a boater’s consummate playground. The island’s rich history, natural beauty, rare wildlife, and secluded anchorages make this emerald green paradise a must-see for boaters all over the world.

Currently in Phase 2 , the San Juan Islands are welcoming visitors, marinas are open at 50% capacity, many restaurants are open for outdoor seating and take out, and the State Parks are open for recreation. Statewide social distancing and face mask orders are in place to keep everyone safe. Out of county boaters are requested to provision at their home ports to limit their time spent in town. Luckily this is easy to do with abundant provisioning options in Bellingham including our own provisioning service Galley Girls , so that you don’t need to shop at all! It’s easy to social distance out at anchor on your own private yacht or while exploring an uninhabited island. Feel confident knowing our updated protocols provide you with a safe, relaxing, high quality experience out on the water this year.

Regardless of your interests—the San Juans have something for you. Tour an eerie mausoleum at Roche Harbor, spot exotic goats along the savannah-like coast of Spieden Island, enjoy a seafood dinner on the deck at Roche Harbor, go birdwatching at a secluded sand spit, or spot orcas off beautiful cliffside vistas. The opportunities and adventures are endless!

While most people know about the San Juan staples that can be reached by ferry, like Mt. Constitution and Friday Harbor, here are some of the best boating spots (and best-kept-secrets) in the San Juan Islands—many of which can only be reached by personal boat.

Happy exploring!

Bonus tip: when exploring the San Juans, we recommend going counterclockwise around the islands—this allows you to better follow the current.

1. Sucia Island

One of the northernmost islands in the San Juans, Sucia is an absolute gem and a must-see for Pacific Northwest boaters. Almost all of the horseshoe-shaped island is taken up by Washington State Park land—offering up 10 miles of beautiful hiking trails, ancient evergreens, and gorgeous vistas. The most popular place to anchor is at Echo Bay—located on the east side of the island; for a more remote anchorage, try Shallow Bay on the west side of the island (this bay’s beautiful sunsets are an added bonus!).

Although once a hot-spot for smugglers, Sucia is virtually uninhabited today—giving you the chance to enjoy her many coves and inlets in peace and quiet (although, you might hear the occasional sea lion). Sucia’s quiet coves also offer shelter from southern winds, making it the perfect place to seek refuge in a storm.

2. Matia Island

About a mile-and-a-half southeast of Sucia is Matia Island—another incredibly remote and beautiful oasis. Matia spans 145 acres and is part of the San Juan Island Wildlife Refuge. Matia only has two mooring buoys and a small dock, so if you’re lucky enough to get a spot, you can usually explore the island in seclusion. Camping spots are available on the island, as is a helpful kiosk that details the island’s hiking trails. While exploring, you might even find traces of the “Hermit of Matia”—the infamous squatter who lived on the island in seclusion for more than 30 years.

3. Patos Island

The northernmost island in the San Juans, Patos sits right above Sucia and offers more than 200 acres of Washington State Park land. The most iconic sight on Patos is the Patos Island Light Station. Built in 1893, the station used to serve as a pivotal beacon for ships transiting Boundary Pass and the Strait of Georgia.

Moorage is available in Active Cove on the west side of the island. Much like Matia, this island only offers two mooring buoys and limited space to anchor, so get there early if you want a spot! If you’d like to learn what it was like living on Patos, check out Helen Glidden’s novel, The Light on the Island, based on Gidden’s experience living there as a child with her 12 siblings.

4. Roche Harbor, San Juan Island

Considered one of the best marinas on the west coast, Roche Harbor is a quaint harbor that boasts plenty of art, history, and fine dining! Tour the historic Hotel de Haro where Teddy Roosevelt enjoyed his favorite baths or visit the Lady of Good Voyage Church, built in the 1880s. The Reserve Sculpture Garden is also a site to behold—the 19-acre garden showcases a rotating exhibit of 100 sculptures made from bronze, stone, wood, metal, glass, and clay. You can also tour the McMillin Mausoleum, where the harbor’s original founder and family are buried; the mausoleum’s “Afterglow Vista” is an impressive (and slightly eery) pillared structure that houses a massive limestone table, chairs, and tomb.

Also—don’t miss the Color Ceremony, held every evening from May through October, where the town retires the flags of Roche Harbor, Washington State, Great Britain, Canada, and the U.S., then caps off the evening with a canon blast across the harbor.

Roche Harbor Resort is welcoming guests at 50% capacity. The marina facilities, restaurant and general store are open. We recommend making moorage reservations in advance as space is tight this year. There is ample room to anchor outside of the marina or in the nearby Garrison Bay. Garrison Bay is a great place to drop a crab pot, visit Wescott Bay Shellfish Farm for some fresh oysters, or take a stroll through the historic English Camp where British Soldiers were stationed during the Pig War.

5. Stuart Island

Just north of Roche Harbor is the beautiful Stuart Island. By choice, the island has no running water, electricity, or phones—its inhabitants supply everything on their own. The island is also home to the historic Stuart Island School—a one-room schoolhouse that had two students in 2008 before closing its doors in 2013. Be sure to take a self-guided tour of the school and its museum.

You’ll also want to visit Turn Point Lighthouse. Built in 1893, the lighthouse offers the perfect spot for enjoying a picnic and spotting orcas. If you’d like a souvenir for your trip, stop by the Treasure Chest—a small shop that runs by the honor system. Take what you want, and then mail a check when you get home!

6. Spencer Spit, Lopez Island

Get away from it all at this secluded, triangular-shaped sand spit on the northeastern shore of Lopez Island. The spit offers 138 acres of State park land, along with camping sites and some of the best clamming and crabbing on the island. Sun bathe on the spit’s sand and pebble beach, or do some birdwatching at the nearby lagoon.

7. Rosario Resort, Orcas Island

Rosario Resort is a history buff’s dream. Located in Cascade Bay on Orcas Island, the resort has a rich, 100-year old history. Built between 1906 and 1909 by Seattle shipbuilder and mayor Robert Moran, the mansion takes you back in time with original furnishings, photographs, and displays. The resort was part of a 7,000-acre purchase by Moran in 1904 that also included Moran State Park and Mt. Constitution.

The Marina facilities are open at 50% capacity and so is the Cascade Bay Grill for outdoor seating. The Mansion Restaurant, pools and spa remain closed at this time.

8. Spieden Island

“Safari” isn’t typically the first word that comes to mind when thinking of the San Juans. Unless, that is, you’re talking about Spieden Island. The privately-owned island was a big game destination in the 1970s, stocked with animals from around the world, including African Barbary sheep, Corsican mouflons, Spanish goats, Indian spotted deer, and Japanese sika deer. While the northern side of “Safari Island” is heavily forested, the southern side features open grassland—giving it a savannah-like feel. While the safari tours and hunting didn’t last long (too many people on San Juan Island complained about shots firing at them!), you can still catch a peek at the island’s exotic animals.

9. Cypress Island

Cypress, named after what explorers mistakenly thought were Cypress trees on shore, is one of the San Juan’s largest uninhabited islands. The island offers 5,500 acres of rich forest and grasslands, along with nearly 20 miles of beautiful hiking trails. Almost the entire island is either a Natural Resources Conservation Area or Natural Area Preserve Lands—allowing the island to preserve its natural beauty and protect local wildlife.

Cypress’s main attraction is its hiking trails and small swimming lakes. Stop at either Eagle Harbor or Pelican Beach (both have mooring balls), and then hike up to Eagle Cliff—the perfect place to catch sweeping views of the San Juans and spot bald eagles. Keep in mind, this trail is closed Feb. 1-July 15 to protect nesting raptor and their young.

10. Vendovi Island

Located on the southeastern end of Bellingham Bay, Vendovi is one of the San Juan’s newest attractions, as it was just purchased by the San Juan Island Preservation Trust in 2010. The practically untouched island offers a rare glimpse of natural, uninhabited life. Snap photos of the island’s rich foliage and wildflowers, and enjoy several miles of crisscrossing hiking trails.

Feel free to stop by the 80-foot dock located on the island’s northern shore—the couple who live there are more than happy to give you an island tour! While overnight stays are prohibited, you can visit during the day from April 1 to September 30, Thursday through Monday (closed Tuesday and Wednesday) from 10am to 6pm.

Interestingly, the island was named after a prisoner—Chief Vendovi—who was aboard Charles Wilkes’ Exploring Expedition in the 1800s. Vendovi—chief of a Fijian tribe, was captured by Wilkes after murdering and supposedly eating the crew of a U.S. whaling ship. Although Vendovi was on his way to New York to await trial, he ended up staying with Wilkes’ crew for more than two years, slowly gaining respect and admiration. In fact, prior to his capture, Vendovi lived a regal and, for the time, impressive life, boasting more than 50 wives and sporting a massive hairdo that was maintained by 12 slaves every day. Just one day after arriving in New York for trial, Vendovi passed away. But his name and little-known history still live on in the San Juans.

Download our free San Juan sample itinerary to plan your next adventure!

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Originally published 29 August 2016. Updated 1 February 2021.

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San Juan Islands Travel Guide and Ultimate 10-Day Sailing Itinerary

After over a year of imposed lockdowns and staring at tedious, four-walled rooms, setting sail into the unknown and feeling the wind embrace you like an old friend is a comforting freedom. Our San Juan Islands travel guide focuses on the best things to do in the San Juan Islands and its stunning state marine parks and populated islands. There are 172 islands in the region, ranging from small rocky reefs to lands reaching approximately 2,500 feet. 

Famous as one of the best places to spot Killer Whales (Orcas) in the wild, the San Juan Islands are a truly unique destination. The area is a hot spot during the migratory whale season for Humpbacks traveling from Alaska south. Each island offers something unique for endless exploring opportunities.

Our 10-day San Juan Islands travel guide and sailing itinerary comprises rolling terrain interspersed with lush, sinuously-forested ridges, leafy glens, and vivacious villages with restaurants serving local cuisine. Beyond land, sailors can spot seals sunbathing and orcas or humpback whales patrolling the waves, while rare bald eagles soar in circular motions above. To reach the more remote islands, kayaking or canoeing to shingle or sand beaches and unspoiled coves is a great way to get the blood pumping before hiking the dramatic surroundings. 

The Ultimate 10-Day San Juan Islands Travel Guide and Sailing Itinerary

Day one: bellingham .

Sailing in the San Juan Islands typically starts in Bellingham or Anacortes. We suggest Bellingham for its delicious restaurants and thriving brewery scene. With seaside admission to the San Juan Islands and its spectacular views of the 172 isles, Bellingham also offers some of the best outdoor recreational activities. Within its borders are numerous local shops and museums, boasting even the Western Washington University, which adds a college vibe to the town. 

Whether you’re walking the vibrant streets or searching for unique wildlife on one of its many trails, Bellingham will keep you occupied until the sun goes down. Then, it’s imperative to try one of the many Bellingham restaurants in the bay. The Chuckanut Cracked Crab Dinner Cruise (running Friday to Sunday between June to September) and Bellingham’s Bay BREWERS Cruise , which takes travellers to the best local breweries, are the most unusual on offer.

Best things to do in Bellingham

Bellingham is an eclectic city with a thriving brewery scene. In fact, they even have a brewery map! Beyond drinking beer, there are many great things to do in Bellingham, Washington.

• Whale- or bird-watching excursions have naturalists helping travellers locate rhinoceros auklets, Caspian terns, great blue herons, and bald eagles
• Tour Chuckanut Distillery and enjoy a taste of local spirits
• Visit the Whatcom Falls Park, which has maintained hiking trails, waterfalls, Whatcom Creek and the Stone Bridge that has the best viewpoint in the park
• Alternatively, pop to Boulevard Park, which has a performance stage for local concerts
• Walk around Lake Padden Park, which has an adjacent golf course 
• Visit Mt. Baker and North Cascades National Park
• Marvel at Lake Whatcom, which is a hotspot for many recreational activities, including boating, fishing and swimming
• Explore the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention 
• Visit the 19 th -century architecture of the Fairhaven Historic District
• In Fairhaven, there are many artisan shops to splash your cash
• Alternatively, head to Bellingham Farmers Market in Depot Market Square

Anchorage Options in Bellingham, Washington

• Bellingham Port provides dock space for commercial and recreational vessels
• There are no overnight moorage options in the Fairhaven area, but there are mooring buoys and plenty of space for anchorage

Day Two: Matia & Sucia Islands

Day Two of our San Juan Islands sailing travel guide and itinerary should be split between visiting Matia and Sucia Islands, spending the evening in the latter. Matia is one of the smaller state park islands, offering 145 acres of protected land safeguarded by the San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge. This means you’ll see various wildlife, including puffins and eagles, and its interesting geological features include rock formations and pristine beaches. However, most of the island is a natural reserve and is off-limits to visitors. 

Sucia Islands is considered the number one park in all the San Juan Islands with a whopping 77,700 feet of shoreline. Once on land, the hiking trails will take you along the Fossil Bay beach before heading to the southwest woodland. A longer route goes to Ev Henry Point, but the pebbly beaches lined with spectacular sandstone formations are exquisite for those looking for an easier excursion. This outer San Juan Island offers the best camping experience in the Pacific Northwest but has no ferry service, meaning while boating there you can be sure to have more privacy compared to some of the places that ferries go to.

Best things to do on Matia Island

• A lot of the island is not open to visitors, but there is an incredible walking trail starting at the dock, featuring ferns and coves taking you into the magical forest filled with big trees.
• Explore Rolfe Cove 
• Camp under the stars (although campfires and wood collecting are not allowed)

Best things to do on Sucia Island

• There are several camping areas with firepits and picnic tables
• Hike some (or all) 10 miles of this state park, featuring unique rock formations, coves and beaches 
• If you have your own kayak, bring it to Sucia and kayak around the island’s many bays and extensive shoreline 
• Marvel at the wildlife including seals often found lounging on the floating docks
• Explore the many beaches on Sucia Island, the most popular being Fox Cove or Snoring Bay
• Fish or shellfish on Sucia Island (but you need a fishing licence before you do this)

Anchorage Options on Matia Island and Sucia Island

Matia Anchorages

• Matia Island has Rolfe Cove, which has a small dock with a capacity for four boats. There are also a couple of mooring balls if the docks are full. Be advised this is a very small anchorage so during busy times you should plan to arrive early to get a spot.

Sucia Anchorages

• Fossil Bay has two extensive docks with a huge anchoring area and buoys 
• If the mooring buoys are full, you’ll find anchorage between the westernmost dock and western end of buoys 

Day Three: Stuart Island

On day three of our San Juan Sailing Guide, you will visit Stuart island. This sparsely populated island has 433 acres of terrain and water channels on and around the isle, offering two parks with rocky shores and dense woodlands. The Reid and Prevost Harbors (north and south sides of the island, respectively) are connected by a narrow strip of state park land, and at Reid Harbor, if you want a break from boat living, you can stay at the campground.

The shoreside camp sites have excellent crab and clam fishing opportunities. In addition, there’s a long trail to the Turn Point Lighthouse Museum where, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot some orca. For something a little easier, there are two short loops around the park between the harbors. However, the rest of the island is private property. 

Best things to do on Stuart Island

• Hike to the Turn Point Lighthouse Museum
• A popular pastime is fishing, crabbing, swimming or diving in the islands two harbors 
• Kayakers or canoeists can set up camp near Prevost Harbor
• Marvel at the cliffs known as “Lover’s Leap’ 
• Visit the Teacherage Museum, which displays the island’s teaching history 
• There are many beaches to explore, and beachcombing is a popular pastime
• Hike some of the shorter trails on the island for incredible views and a fun workout

Anchorage Options on Stuart Island

• The Prevost Harbor on Stuart Island has a large dock and big bays, featuring a good amount of anchoring possibilities and mooring balls 
• Prevost Harbor also has easy dinghy entry to the county dock 
• An alternative is Reid Harbor which has its own dock and bay with mooring balls

San Juan Sailing Itinerary Day Four: Roche Harbor Marina

About four miles from Stuart Island is Roche Harbor Marina , on of San Juan Islands’ top spots to relax the sails. With up to 377 slips, the Roche Harbor Marina is usually where jetsetters spend their summer months as it has an ambience of “old money”, steeped in tradition, with a sunset flag ceremony. It’s a far cry from the other island campsites, and travelers should use Roche Harbor Marina to replenish food supplies, wash clothes, and shower in decent facilities.

Roche Harbor marina is one of the top stops on our San Juan Islands sailing guide to enjoy a sumptuous meal. There’s also a transit bus running during the day that’ll get you around the island. 

Best things to do on San Juan Island and Roche Harbor

• See Orcas on a once in a lifetime whale watching tour.
• Visit the islands’ historic village, which has remains of a lime kiln and Our Lady of Good Voyage Chapel
• Explore the San Juan Islands Sculpture Park
• Visit Lime Kiln State Park for a chance to spot orca whales from shore
• Discover the McMillin Memorial Mausoleum (the resting place of the family who used to own the lime works)
• Go and see the pioneer cemetery
• Guests can hike the trails around the Roche Harbor quarries, through forest land
• If you’d like to try your hand at water sports; kayaking and paddle boarding are popular activities on the island
• Swim in one of the islands’ outdoor heated pools 

Anchorage Options at Roche Harbor Marina

• Roche Harbor Marina has 377 slips for large and small boats.

San Juan Islands Sailing Guide Day Five: Lopez Island

Lopez Island is situated at the easternmost point of the San Juan Islands, which can also be reached by ferry from Anacortes. It is 15 miles long, featuring 2,500 year-round residents and a staggering 63-mile-long shoreline. The best way to explore the undulating farmlands, forests, beaches with vast mountain ranges, or peaceful bays is by bike. There are several bicycle rental outfitters on the island that can even meet you at the dock to drop off a bike.

The simple life is also a crucial feature on this island, and some of the best things to do on the island involve you slowing down. With many various hiking trails as well as small shops and restaurants, spend the afternoons taking in the incredible views.

Best things to do on Lopez Island

• Hit the canopies of those beautiful trees on a once in a lifetime Tree Canopy Climbing Tour
• Make sure to see Agate Beach on the South End of the island or Otis Perkis beach near Fisherman Bay
• Try clamming or crabbing
• Visit Lopez Village , which has many restaurants, galleries, a bookshop, a historical museum, a library, and many shops to stroll around 
• Visit Point Colville, which has incredible views of the Salish Sea
• Visit Watmough Bay (you can hike here from Point Colville)
• Visit Spencer Spit State Park, which is a popular spot for camping 
• Hike up Lopez Hill
• Try your hand at kayaking (there are a variety of routes according to time and difficulty)  
• There are many campsites in Odlin County Park with waterfront views, beach-access restrooms and picnic tables 
• Tour Lopez Island by bike 

Anchorage Options on Lopez Island

• You can anchor or dock at Fisherman Bay, but this is a relatively shallow area, so sailors need to enter it cautiously and slowly and make sure to follow tide charts.
• Spencer Spit has a large anchoring area with many moorings on both sides of the spit
• Odlin Park has its own dock that allows you to tie up your boat for two hours as well as a number of mooring balls for overnight anchorage.

Day Six: Friday Harbor , San Juan Island

The next stop on our San Juan Islands sailing guide is Friday Harbor Marina , on San Juan Island, a popular tourist destination with many fine dining experiences and ice cream parlors ashore. Friday Harbor is the largest town in the San Juan Islands, with a huge grocery store. There are many shops, including a chandlery on Main Street, and visitors can rent mopeds to get around the island.

On a more practical note, there are also showers, laundry facilities, and places to refuel, and the sea life here (including shrimp, cod, and crab) is extraordinary. If you’re looking for something cultural, the summer months hold events like a jazz festival, adding a musical flair to your San Juan Islands sailing itinerary.

Best things to do in Friday Harbor

• Go Kayaking! This is by far the best way to experience travel to the San Juan Islands area. In fact, we recommend even doing an overnight kayaking tour and camping under the stars.
• Visit the Friday Harbor Laboratories, which is one of the oldest marine research institutions
• Go shopping on Spring Street, exploring a range of galleries, boutiques and bookshops
• Go and see the Whale Museum 
• Explore The San Juan Historical Museum
• Go to one of the charter companies and fly around the island
• Watch local marine life at the Spring St. Landing mini-aquarium 
• Visit the San Juan Islands Museum of Art 
• Visit the islands’ winery
• Explore a lavender farm
• Take a whale watching tour which will give you the chance to see orcas, humpbacks, harbor seals, sea lions and bald eagles. 

Friday Harbor Anchorage Options

• The Friday Harbor Marina has slips for over 150 boats, ranging in size from dinghies to yachts
• For those in town only for a short stop there is a free anchoring option. Tie up at the breakwater for a complimentary 2 hours.

Day Seven: Jones Island

The next stop on our San Juan Islands sailing guide and itinerary is Jones Island which can be easily reached from anywhere in the San Juan area. This island is in the centre of the San Juan Islands. It has a 188-acre park with 25,000 feet of shoreline, forest, an orchard and green clearings.

Coming onshore, you might be welcomed by otters or a rare breed of deer. There are little beaches, tide pools, and several short trails to stretch out your legs and 24 primitive campsites. Deer Harbor is close by, should you need to replenish your supplies.

Best things to do on Jones Island

• Hike trails going through a forest of moss, logs, and towering trees
• Pick fruit from the pear and apple orchard
• If you’re looking to stay overnight, the cliffside campsites are close to the dock and allow evening fires

Anchorage Options on Jones Island

• On the north side of this state park is a protected cove that has a dock and mooring balls 

Day Eight: Orcas Island

The locals refer to this horseshoe-shaped island as “the gem of the San Juans”, as it has 57 miles of green landscape, pristine lakes, underwater treasures, curving roads that are ideal for cyclists, apple barns, art studios, and much more. On the island is the Rosario Resort which has a marina – a historic mansion with a pub, fine dining restaurant, spa with a hot tub and pool, and tennis courts. Otherwise, there are few hotels on the island and many people especially larger groups prefer to stay in one of the various Orcas island vacation rentals .

An alternative to Rosario Resort and Marina is Deer Harbor Marina, situated at Orcas’ westernmost point. There is a little town with a restaurant and quaint cottages, and according to sailing veterans, Deer Harbor is the best spot to refuel and buy provisions. There are also friendly seals swimming around the boats which can regularly be seen lounging at the docks.

While on Orcas, we suggest renting a car to explore the island. The local car rental agency will bring the car right to you making it easy to connect from boat to wheels. Make sure to go to Eastsound, the main town on Orcas island which has some of the most delicious restaurants in all of the San Juan Islands. This hip downtown area also has an amazing cocktail bar and a brewery for those looking for a night cap.

For those into hiking, be sure to visit Moran State Park. You can hike the tallest mountain in the San Juan Islands or if you’re short on time, drive to the top and see views all the way to Canada.

Best things to do on Orcas Island

• Try horse riding or swimming in Moran State Park
• Go chasing waterfalls in the Moran State Park
• Hike to the highest point in the San Juan Islands – Mount Constitution
• Explore the Rosario mansion, which features a museum with the house’s old rooms, a historical slideshow, and a pipe organ concert
• Drive the San Juan Islands Scenic Byway 
• Hike Turtleback Mountain, which is situated on the western end of the island
• Go on a whale-watching tour (the best time to do this is April through October)
• Explore the Eastsound Village, which has many artisan and boutique shops and eateries, and a history museum
• Visit Obstruction Pass State Park and relax on the best public access beach on the island
• Try kayaking or paddleboarding on one of the islands two large lakes

Anchorage Options on Orcas Island

• Westsound Marina has the largest moorage facility on the island, featuring 180 moorage slips and has the most extensive repair facility 
• Rosario Resort (closest to Eastsound) has 30 slips, plenty of safe anchorage and eight mooring buoys 
• There are public docks in Eastsound at Madrona Point
• There’s also Cayou Quay in Eastsound, which has dockage options, while anchorage and moorings are nearby 
• At Orcas’ westernmost point, you can dock at Deer Harbor Marina

Day Nine: James Island

At 113 acres, James Island is one of those with no residents or drinkable water, and it is the foggiest place on our San Juan Islands sailing guide. However, it has over 12,000 feet of saltwater shoreline and multiple beaches, providing excellent views of the Rosario Strait. James Island can be easily accessed from Lopez Island, and there are three Cascadia Marine Trail campsites with a toilet. In addition to this, there’s an additional 10 campsites linked by a loop trail, but one is for kayakers only (usually coming from Anacortes, which is close by). The northern side of the island is closed to visitors as it is a designated a natural forest area. 

Best things to do on James Island

• Go crabbing (but make sure you have a crabbing permit), shellfishing, or fishing 
• Camp under the stars at one of its 13 campsites
• Hike and explore the islands forested trails, coves and two white-sand beaches

James Island Anchorage Options

• In the East Cove, four mooring buoys remain in place all year (all boaters must register and pay required fees upon arrival)
• The West Cove has a dock featuring a 128-foot moorage float

Day Ten: Cypress Island & Back to Bellingham 

The final stop on our San Juan Islands sailing itinerary is Cypress Island which has no ferry service. Its Eagle Harbor or Pelican Beach offer hiking trails left in their natural states, feeling very remote and serene. Beyond the Douglas-fir forests is a 7-acre lake, an excellent photography spot, while the south of the island has a protected bay containing a salmon fish farm. Due to its proximity to the mainland, kayakers tend to day trip here. From Cypress Island, head back to Bellingham, where you can enjoy some local cuisine before heading back home.

Best things to do on Cypress Island

• Hike to the island’s summit along the official DNR trails 
• Kayak the island’s circumference (the island is considered the best kayaking destination in the San Juan Islands)
• Spend the night camping on the island
• Go out looking for the island’s abundant wildlife 
• Try some fishing

Anchorage Options on Cypress Island

• On Cypress Island, you can find mooring buoys throughout various spots of the island. A local favorite is Eagle Harbor where you can spot seals swimming right near your boat.

Final Thoughts on our San Juan Islands Sailing Guide and Itinerary

There are many incredible San Juan Islands. You could spend a lifetime exploring their diverse ecosystems, quaint villages, incredible nature, and remote campsites. But this 10-day San Juan Islands sailing itinerary will give you the best of both worlds – freedom at sea and dreamy, once-in-a-lifetime experiences on remote islands. 

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Sailing the San Juan Islands

• By Barbara Marrett
• Updated: November 14, 2019

Summer was almost over. I’d been itching for an adventure, something to reconnect me with sailing and the world outside the confines of office walls, when a call came out of the blue from my ­longtime friend and ­sailing co-conspirator Carol Hasse. “Let’s sail to Sucia Island on ­ Lorraine,” she proposed .

The timing was perfect.

Hasse, or Hasse-san as her friends call her, and I had made long Pacific Ocean passages together to exotic isles while teaching aboard the 65-foot sail training vessel Alaska Eagle . We’d taught countless Take the Helm seminars, even done separate stints as Cruising World Boat of the Year judges. However, we’d never sailed purely for pleasure together in our own Pacific Northwest backyard.

Hasse and I have a trust and comfort level forged over 30 years of friendship and some dicey situations aboard boats. And when I think to myself who is wise, who sees the best in others, whose life lessons I can learn from—it’s Hasse. No matter how long it has been, we pick up where we left off, and when we’re together, adventures effortlessly unfold.

Although I live in the San Juan Islands of Washington state, a world-renowned cruising ground, in a case of the shoemaker’s children who often go barefoot, I no longer own a boat and spend most of my time in front of a computer, promoting the islands for others to visit.

Port Townsend, Hasse’s homeport, and my hometown of Friday Harbor on San Juan Island are only about 30 nautical miles apart by water. It’s double the distance by car and involves two ferry rides; that fact, and mutually busy lives, keep us from getting together often. But by using the water as our connection, we were about to sail in the wake of Coast Salish Natives who used the Salish Sea as their highway for millennia.

To get to San Juan Island, Hasse had sailed Lorraine with our mutual friend, Ace Sprague, from Port Townsend to Friday Harbor. As Ace left Lorraine and I stepped aboard, a neighboring boat owner wandered over to admire Lorraine, observed me and Hasse and asked, “Sisters, right?”

“No, but we get that question a lot,” I replied.

Hasse has always spoken with reverence about Lorraine, her classic 25-foot Nordic Folk Boat, named after her mother, so I was anxious to get acquainted under sail . Built in 1959, in Denmark, Lorraine and Hasse have been going steady since 1979.

In the decades I’ve known Hasse, Lorraine has been almost completely rebuilt by many of Port Townsend’s most skilled wooden-boat craftsmen. As we got underway for Jones Island, Hasse lovingly pointed out the portlight from the 80-year-old cutter Vito Dumas ; the cedar privy bucket made by A.J. Correa; and how easily Lorraine ’s sails hoist without the need for halyard winches. Despite Lorraine ’s compact size, I found the cockpit roomy, easy to negotiate, and filled with lovely antique bronze fittings. As we headed north, it was like sailing back in time.

Jones Island Treats

For a small boat, Jones Island is the perfect steppingstone to Sucia Island when coming from the more southerly San Juan Islands. During a 6-mile broad reach in light southerlies up San Juan Channel, Hasse and I eased back into our friendship. Shortly after arriving, we rendezvoused with Hasse’s godson, Spencer Snapp, and his family at anchor in North Cove at Jones Island Marine Park. It was August, so the half-dozen mooring buoys and space at the dock were taken by mid-afternoon. We tied up against a yellow pontoon on Spencer’s aptly named 30-foot Protector RIB. Our side-by-side boats looked like Laurel and Hardy.

Spencer, who grew up sailing on Lorraine, and I quickly bonded as members of the Hasse fan club, a society that numbers in the thousands thanks to her skill as an offshore sailmaker and her ­passion as a teacher. Her Port Townsend Sails loft, celebrating its 40th year, is renowned for both building beautifully handcrafted bluewater sails and for befriending its far-flung customers.

Our evening walk with the Snapps took us past grazing deer and moss-covered logs to the quieter, more-exposed southern side of the island. Once back aboard Lorraine , it was dark and peaceful, with only a dozen anchor lights twinkling. Hasse and my conversation turned to aging. She wondered how much longer she’ll be able to climb ladders to measure for sails, and I shared that I no longer feel super confident scrambling around a pitching deck in rough seas. But somehow age limitations are less onerous when shared with a close friend who still has a curious spirit and spring in her step.

And then the talk took a more playful turn as we recalled our shared Alaska Eagle adventures, like the time we were so focused on teaching sail trim that our students almost ran the boat into the barrier reef on Raiatea in the Society Islands.

As mates on Eagle ’s first all-women ocean passage—from Honolulu to Friday Harbor—we recalled how 50 percent of the crew was green in our “Broad Way” show the first night out. To add levity, we called it the Women’s International Hurling contest. Capt. Karen Prioleau’s watch became “Prioleau’s Pukers,” Hasse’s became “Hasse’s Heavers” and my watch was “Barb’s Barf-o-Rama” (reminiscent of the pie-eating contest in the movie Stand by Me ).

We recounted the Eagle halfway party, where costumes were created from whatever was aboard. How Capt. Karen created a hilarious Miss Piggy costume using a spray-can cap as a nose and plastic bags cut into strips to make false eyelashes. We remembered seeing flying fish under the Milky Way, rainbows after squalls, and the florescent streaks of dolphins at night, all during that same passage.

Hasse and I drifted to sleep on Lorraine ’s settees, happy to be together on a new adventure without having to stand our long night watch or take care of seasick shipmates.

The next morning, we missed slack ­water, and motored out against the current instead. Believing there was enough wind to sail, we cut the engine. Mistake. We both know better; currents are strong in the islands, and summer winds are usually light and inconsistent.

Lorraine can easily sail in 4 knots of breeze, but could not overcome the increasing 1.5-knot ebb current. Instead, we were sucked west toward Spieden Channel, close to the rocky shoreline of San Juan Island, farther and farther from Sucia Island, our destination. The briny smell of bull kelp beds, signifying the water is growing shallower, wafted toward us. We could hear the distant grunts of Steller sea lions.

Hasse and her outboard, the “Wee Beastie,” do not share many Zen moments. It reluctantly started, sputtered and died. Yet the ever-vigilant Hasse was thinking ahead to every possible scenario: Should we ride the increasing 2-knot current up Spieden Channel to Stuart Island Marine Park? Return to Jones Island? Or try to tie up to a friend’s mooring buoy on Waldron Island? She weighed the merits of each.

Finally, the outboard kicked over. The tide had turned, and a 1-knot flood current in President Channel combined with the 4 hp. Beastie helped us make good progress toward Sucia. Summer light lingered late and worked in our favor. After drifting and motorsailing seven hours to cover 10 nautical miles, we entered Fox Cove on Sucia Island.

Sucia Island Surprises

Sucia is considered the crown jewel of the San Juan Islands’ 11 state marine parks. Shell middens from Coast Salish Native Americans are all that remain of their presence on the island. Rumrunners, smugglers and homesteaders followed. Today, the whole island is undeveloped.

One could spend a week here at a different bay, cove or dock every night, each with its own special allure: Snoring Bay with its seaweed-rimmed shore, or Shallow Bay’s sensuous sandstone caves. Washington’s first dinosaur bone, from a relative of Tyrannosaurus rex , was found in Sucia’s Fossil Bay among 70-million-year-old fossils from a shallow, near-tropical sea. Fossil Bay also contains Sucia’s only two docks and shoreside picnic shelter, both popular with cruisers.

It’s easy to understand why, of all the places Neil Young might have chosen to marry Daryl Hannah, he selected the stern of his boat, W.N. Ragland, in an ultraprivate ceremony anchored in Echo Bay with its view of snowcapped Mount Baker—just a few weeks before our visit.

Like many classic Pacific Northwest wooden boats, Hasse shared a history with Ragland, a 101-foot Baltic gaff-rigged schooner. Hasse’s first ocean passage, from Mexico to the Marquesas, was on Ragland. She subsequently met Young and made the vessel’s signature tanbark sails.

By 1830, we were making our way into Fox Cove. The sun was casting a golden glow on the anchorage. A blue heron waded silently in the shallows. Bizarre and baroque sandstone formations lined the shore, some delicately eroded like lace, while some formed into molarlike boulders, seemingly plucked from a giant’s jaw.

Amazed to find a mooring buoy available this late in the day, we soon discovered why. That night, the current flooding into the south entrance of the cove prevented us from swinging into the east wind. The buoy rapped urgently against Lorraine ’s lapstrake hull, like an angry neighbor beating on our door. In my not-quite-wakeful state, I put up with the annoying noise rather than getting up and dealing with it. In the morning, rigging flat fenders on either side of the bow helped tame the beast.

We spent the day hiking Sucia’s network of trails past towering cedar trees and driftwood-strewn beaches, sharing stories of our parent’s lives and how ­different our own lives have unfolded from theirs. We felat safe sharing our secrets, knowing we wouldn’t be judged.

I was surprised later in the day when two-time circumnavigator Nancy Erley and our aforementioned friend and sailing instructor, Ace, brought Ace’s new-to-her Sea Dory 25 from Port Townsend to rendezvous with us at Shallow Bay. It was a bit of déjà vu as well. My first experience sailing was taking a cruising seminar from John Neal—well-known for his Mahina Expeditions—alongside Hasse and Nancy in Tahiti in 1984, before we’d all go on to careers teaching or writing about sailing.

We tied our boats together on one mooring buoy for the night. We talked about mutual sailing friends, past and present. The fruits of the Sea Dory’s onboard amenities (unlike Lorraine ) included refrigeration, cellphone charging, and a head with a holding tank (we’d been using pit toilets ashore). All were greatly appreciated by the crew of Lorraine.

Deer Harbor Delights

After two nights on Sucia dealing with angry mooring buoys, we rode the ebb current to Deer Harbor on Orcas Island, tacking into light southerlies for 12 nautical miles. It was a sparkling Pacific Northwest sunny day, the smoke from recent British Columbia forest fires had finally cleared after several weeks of hazy skies.

We looked forward to hot showers, cold beer and freshly baked pizza as we snagged one of the last remaining side ties at Deer Harbor Marina. Instead, we found everything closed—island-wide. A truck had struck a power pole and knocked out electricity hours earlier. Perhaps in self-defense, marina management opened the restroom just for us.

Our sunset stroll through the hamlet of Deer Harbor crossed a bridge where, beneath us, a lone woman with long flowing hair was rowing a classic wherry. For all the world, she looked like the Lady of Shallot in John William Waterhouse’s painting by the same name.

I tentatively called out, “Kat?” Then her partner, Michael, who had been relaxing in the bottom of the boat, appeared. Michael and I have raced together on their painstakingly restored classic 6-meter, Challenge, commissioned by Cornelius Shields in 1934. What a coincidence.

Perhaps not surprisingly, then, I found out that Hasse had known Michael for decades. When Hasse and I are together, we always seem to run into someone one or both of us knows, whether it’s sailing in Tahiti or gunkholing in the Pacific Northwest. The owners of Deer Harbor Boatworks, Michael Durland and Kat Fennel hold the San Juan islands’ only wooden-boat rendezvous every September. It’s a low-key island-style affair in between the Victoria Classic Boat Festival and the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival.

A long, spontaneous evening of candlelight, wine and political reflection unfolded in their loft perched over the Deer Harbor estuary. Hasse and I walked back to Lorraine , a bit like drunken sailors, laughing arm in arm with a borrowed headlamp from Michael to light the way.

The next day, hot showers ashore felt more delicious for having waited an extra day. Michael and Kat drove us into the artsy village of Eastsound to the farmers’ market. The aroma of freshly brewed, locally roasted coffee and wood-fired pizza was irresistible, making up for the previous evening’s power outage.

Over the course of our four-day cruise, I found Hasse’s positive attitude comforting. When I decried the ravages of aging, Hasse said: “Think of every one of your wrinkles as some great life experience. And Barbara, we get to be elders now, respected for our wisdom.”

A day on land has its familiar routine—we have roles to play. But cruising nurtures a dissolving of self and boundaries. I lost track of what day it was and was reminded of how connected and spontaneous the cruising world is. Most important, Hasse and I had renewed a friendship that has seen us through failures and triumphs, squalls and star-filled nights. There was and is an irreplaceable honesty and reassurance that goes with all that shared history.

While Hasse’s and my cruising dreams might be less ambitious than in the past, they need be no less magical. And, like Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz , as we discovered in the San Juans, when we go looking for adventure, we often have no further to look than our own backyard.

Barbara Marrett has been a contributing editor to Cruising World since 1993. She is a Friday Harbor Port Commissioner and licensed captain. Mahina Tiare, Pacific Passages , her South Pacific adventure book written with John Neal, is available as an e-book from Amazon.com .

The San Juans: What to Know If You Go

Check out the website for Washington State Parks for specific information on each of the 11 state marine parks in the San Juan ­Islands.

All docks and mooring buoys are on a first-come, first-served basis. Many docks are removed in fall and replaced in spring. Mooring buoys remain available year-round. Moorage is paid from 1300 to 0800. Mooring buoys will accommodate boats up to 45 feet. Rafting is permitted. All local parks offer campsites, mooring buoys, and composting or pit toilets. Many stops also have potable water.

Cruising the Pacific Northwest without ­auxiliary power is very challenging. Summer winds are typically light, currents are strong (often greater than 2.5 knots), and unmarked rocks and reefs are found in unexpected places.

Carry a copy of Current Atlas Juan de Fuca Strait to Strait of Georgia published by the Canadian Hydrographic Service. You must also have the current year’s accompanying Waggoner Tables to predict current direction and strength, by hour, for every tide, each day. The Atlas doesn’t predict slack water; you must also carry tidal current tables to predict slack water.

Be aware of colliding currents that can cause tide rips, and check the weather to see where wind and ­current might oppose each other causing rough seas.

Be aware of large tidal ranges when anchoring. Set your scope for five times the water depth at high tide. Also remember, the islands are in the “rain shadow” of the Olympic Mountains, receiving half the rainfall of the Seattle area and twice as much sunshine. Carry large-scale charts to find unmarked rocks and reefs—there are many. Also bring several hundred feet of polypropylene line as a shore tie for deep or tight anchorages. Finally, get a copy of the Waggoner Cruising Guide for invaluable cruising tips, customs information, anchorages, piloting, marina and fuel-dock information.

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Escape the ordinary with a San Juan Islands yacht charter vacation.

Adventure awaits

The San Juan Islands and Gulf Islands are some of the most popular cruising areas in the world.

What is it that draws people to these islands? A big reason is because the islands are remote but accessible at the same time. A short drive from Seattle or Vancouver puts you in Anacortes, Washington, the “Gateway to the San Juan Islands.” From there, the San Juan Islands start a mere 15 miles away.

Your Cruise. Your Choice.

Once in the islands, you’ll find quaint both communities and hidden hideaway, all surrounded by a calm inland sea. Seemingly endless miles of coastline and over 100 islands give you plenty of options for exploring and relaxing. Drop anchor in a quiet cove, or tie up at one of the island marinas – it’s your choice when you charter!

Anacortes Yacht Charters has provided San Juan Islands yacht charters for 45 years. We have the largest selection of motor yachts and sailboats in the Northwest. Our experience and fleet mean we can match you with the perfect boat for a trip of lifetime.

To book a bareboat or skippered San Juan Islands yacht charter contact us at:

800-233-3004 or [email protected]

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We are offering our biggest savings on the biggest boats in the fleet.

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Save $1,900 and launch or build your bareboat charter resume.

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Should you have a breakdown during your charter, we will complete repairs within four hours of notification for any vessel within 20 miles of our charter base. View Guarantee

Yacht Charter

A private yacht charter is your ticket to a Pacific Northwest vacation of a lifetime. Choose to bareboat charter a powerboat or sailboat for a hands-on adventure. Or, hire a skipper for a more guided experience. A few of our larger boats require a crew and are shown on the crewed yacht page.

Yacht Ownership

If you own a boat, or are pondering a purchase, consider placing your boat into charter service. This a great option to help offset the cost of ownership and earn real tax advantages, Use our in-house service department for year-round care of your boat. Arrange time on your boat for yourself as desired.

News and Announcements

Ayc admiral hats are here.

We are proud to be celebrating our 45th Anniversary in 2024. Over the years providing San Juan Islands yacht charters, our crew has pioneered mini-fleet management. Along the way we have provided over 15,000 charter trips – illustrating our commitment to quality and customer service.

All of our charter vessels are clean, well-maintained, and include a breakdown guarantee. We take the risk out of chartering to better ensure the quality of your charter experience.

Our yacht charter fleet includes a variety of power yachts , sailing yachts and crewed yachts from 27’ to 70’.  Make your choice to host nearly any group of friends and family for a magical San Juan Islands yacht charter.

Toll Free: (800) 233-3004 | (360) 293-4555 | [email protected]

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Boating, Sailing Tours, & Rentals

As a world-renowned boating destination, the San Juan Islands have an adventure for everyone. From day and overnight charters and rentals, to fuel and long-term moorage, you'll likely find what you're looking for. The San Juans are equally renowned for wildlife, especially whales. While out on the water, please follow the Be Whale Wise guidelines and help protect our spectacular marine wildlife. 

Tips & Resources for Boaters: If you want to maximize your enjoyment and boating safety in visiting the islands, you can find nearly 20 live-recorded educational webinars from the non-profit, America’s Boating Club of the San Juans . Review the  Green Boating Guide  from Friends of the San Juan Islands and explore the Maritime National Heritage Areas throughout the Islands!

Let us acknowledge that we reside on the ancestral lands and waters of the Coast Salish people who have called this place home since time immemorial and let us honor inherent, aboriginal, and treaty rights that have been passed down from generation to generation.  

Charters, Rentals & Tours

The shorter your stay in the islands the more important it is to plan ahead. Booking activities in advance will make your trip run smoothly and you'll be more likely to get your first picks! Most tour operators have generous cancellation policies in case you need to make changes. (Check with individual companies to be sure of their policies.)

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Sail the San Juans

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Relaxing 6 and 12 day sailing adventures aboard Northwind!

Humpback whale encounter...

Afternoon nap...

Northwind's elegant salon.

Sailing with a pod of resident orcas.

Gourmet cuisine by Chef Jette.

San Juan Islands Sailing Charters and Cruises

We provide yacht and crew. you relax and enjoy., the art of slow travel.

Something special happens when we cast off the dock lines and head out into the San Juan Islands on a sailing charter. We become aware of the rhythm of the tides, the wind filling the sails, the salty sea air, and the porpoise following in our wake. The hidden coves and diverse marine life of the San Juans beckon us to make discoveries and submerge ourselves in its delightfully relaxed pace.

So much of the world passes by without our being able to see, touch, or feel it. A sailing charter through the San Juan islands allows us to take a moment to slow down and experience it for ourselves.

We have been perfecting the art of “slow travel” for over 25 years. Our new 55′ sailboat Northwind , offers a luxury yacht charter experience for up to six guests in private staterooms with ensuite baths. Each one of our San Juan Sailing Charters and Inside Passage cruises are one of a kind, designed for your group from the ground up. From your preferences on food and drink , to where we go and what we see and do, the result is a perfect blending of islands, yacht, crew, and cuisine. It’s your perfect vacation, Sailing the San Juan Islands in style.

 This is what a carefree sailing vacation is all about

Sailing the san juan islands.

Captains Jette & Jon Baker, with TailR

A fully crewed sailing charter with Sail the San Juans is a world away from any vacation experience you probably have ever had. A sailboat charter aboard Northwind  will open a door to see and experience the more remote islands and coves that are not easily accessible to most people.

At the same time, sailing yachts are in a unique position to be less intrusive to marine mammals which helps encourage encounters with Orca, seals and porpoise.

A sailboat charter with Sail the San Juans is a first class experience, from our impeccable yacht and crew to your private chef’s menu built around your preferences.

Join us to explore over 200 forested islands, help trim the sails on Northwind, or just relax while you savor gourmet fare , and great hiking and kayaking through protected bays and inlets.

This is the art of slow travel.

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Private Charters: Groups of up to six people receive exclusive use of the sailboat for their group.

Join A Cruise: Reserve a stateroom for two, and let us take care of filling the other cabins.

Learn more about Booking Options and Rates

Two unique island cruises

San Juan Islands:  These six day sailing trips cruise through the San Juan Islands, an enchanting archipelago of hidden coves, abundant wildlife, and forested islands located in the sheltered inland waters of Washington State.

Learn more about San Juan Islands Sailing Charters

The Inside Passage: These twelve day wilderness sailing trips cruise through the southern portion of the Inside Passage, an area rich with native culture, mountain vistas, fjords and waterfalls located in British Columbia.

Learn more about Inside Passage Sailing Charters

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Cruise the San Juans with these Breathtaking Charters

If you’ve visited the scenic San Juan archipelago, you know about the endless coastline just waiting to be explored. Instead of a powerboat or kayaking adventure this time, why not try a sailing charter? There’s truly nothing like making your way by sail, exploring new island coves in a traditional and invigorating fashion. Here are some of the best sailboat charters around for your next trip to the San Juan Islands:

  All Aboard Sailing, San Juan Island

Join Captains David & Barbara aboard the Peniel, a 1956 wooden pilothouse sloop.

If you’re looking for a more intimate sailing experience, All Aboard Sailing may be the choice for you! Board the Peniel, a 42 foot Bill Garden design and embark a journey through the islands with your co-captains, naturalists, and Chef/Owners David and Barbara. The sailing tours offered are: Full day (8-9 hours), half-day (5 hours) and short sails (3 hours). Full day sails are the most popular as it allows ample time and range to circumnavigate the islands and has a significantly higher chance of seeing whales along the way. There are options available for drop off/pick up at the nearby islands. For more information and availability, contact All Aboard Sailing at:

Phone: 1-360-298-1918

Email: [email protected]

Website: allaboardsailing.com

  Griffin Bay Adventures, San Juan Island

Griffin Bay Adventures is a sailing and general boat handling school located in Friday Harbor, also providing skippered charters.

For those who want a private charter as well as a captain to explore the beautiful Pacific Northwest waters, this is a great way to experience the Salish Sea. Sit back and relax, or plan an exotic adventure tailored to you and your crews’ interests. Also, no sailing experience is necessary! For more information and availability, contact Griffin Bay Adventures at:

Phone: 1-503-995-3943

Email: [email protected]

Website: griffinbayadventures.com

Northwest Classic Day Sailing, Orcas Island

Sail with Captain Ward on “Aura”, a beautiful 1948 wooden sloop. 

If you want to expand your San Juan excursion to a nearby island, this might be just the perfect way! Hop on the inter-island ferry to Orcas Island for your sailing trip with Northwest Classic Day Sailing. Book either a group or a private tour with their crew. With a group tour, you may be sailing with other passengers on the boat. In a private tour, your party will be the only passengers — plus, the trip will be more customizable! For more information and availability, contact Northwest Classic Day Sailing at:

Phone: 1-360-376-5581

Email: [email protected]

Website: classicdaysails.com

  Emerald Isle Sailing Charters, Orcas Island

There are four ways to cruise with Captain Dave on S/V Na’Walak: Scheduled tours, custom itineraries, day charters, and Cruise & Learn trips.

If you’re looking for a day trip, Emerald Isle day charters are 6-hour sails that begin in Deer Harbor and embark on a journey to some of the most wildlife-rich and scenic areas of the islands. You can also book a custom itinerary trip, or plan the trip yourself. For more information and availability, contact Emerald Isle Sailing at:

Phone: 1-360-376-3472

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.emeraldislesailing.com

Hopefully this gives you a good start in your quest to sail the San Juan Islands!  Don’t hesitate to ask your innkeepers at the Harrison House Suites or Tucker House Inn for help finding more information or booking a tour. They can also make you a hearty homemade boxed lunch to take along on your wind-powered excursion.

We’ll see you at check-in!

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RESERVATIONS

A first-timer's guide to the San Juan Islands, Washington

Jan 30, 2024 • 8 min read

People mainly decamp to the San Juan Islands for peace, calm and communing with nature © Adam Hester / Getty Images

If you're in search of a peaceful retreat from the hectic pace of modern life, start planning your trip to the San Juan Islands now. This small, scattered archipelago is a bucolic mélange of sustainable farms and attractive B&Bs, where the pace hasn't changed much since the 1950s.

Peace, calm and communing with nature are the main reasons people come here. In laid-back but quietly industrious rural communities, motorists offer salutatory waves, and you can leave your bike unlocked outside the grocery store and still expect it to be there when you get back.

Don't arrive in search of shopping malls or a frenetic nightlife; come instead for kayaking, whale watching, beachcombing, sailing, clamming and skillfully concocted farm-to-table cuisine paired with local wines. Get ready to feel a world away while still vacationing in continental America.

When is the best time to go to the San Juan Islands?

Cocooned in the Puget Sound between northwest Washington and Canada's Vancouver Island, the San Juans have a relatively mild climate year-round. The best time to visit for dry, sunny and warm weather is between May and September. This is when most businesses are open and conditions are perfect for bracing outdoor activities like kayaking and cycling. However, it's also when the islands are most crowded.

To avoid the crush but still enjoy fine weather, come in September after Labor Day weekend.

The rainiest seasons are fall and winter, although heavy snow and subzero temperatures are rare. Accommodation rates are cheaper in the off-season, save for a short spike at Christmas and New Year.

Is it easy to get to and around the San Juan Islands?

In terms of getting to the islands, you have two options: air or boat. The ferry is by far the most popular method, and the journey from the port of Anacortes – a 90-minute drive north of Seattle – is beautiful. There are more than 170 islands in the archipelago, and regular car ferries serve the largest four: Lopez, Shaw, Orcas and San Juan Island. 

The three main islands – Lopez, San Juan, and Orcas – are small enough to cycle around, and each has a bike rental outlet. San Juan Island and Orcas run seasonal shuttle buses between May and September, linking the ferry terminals with the main sights. For convenience, many people bring their own cars.

There are regular flights in small aircraft and seaplanes between the San Juan Islands and Seattle, Anacortes and Bellingham. The nearest big international airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac).

How to pick the best San Juan island for you

San juan island: best for history.

Welcome to the site of one of America's most improbable and little-known diplomatic spats.

The San Juan Islands' 15 minutes of fame came in 1859 during the so-called Pig War, a border dispute between the British and the Americans that almost triggered an all-out conflict. The incident, in which the only casualty was a foraging pig shot by an overzealous American farmer, led to the building of two military redoubts on San Juan Island to guard the then-ambiguous border between the US and Canada .

Today, British Camp and American Camp still stand on opposite sides of the island, incorporated into an atmospheric national historical park  as a testament to a war that – fortunately – never happened. Old barracks, interpretative panels and park rangers help explain the fascinating history.

San Juan Island is also known for its wineries, cideries and artisan farms raising everything from lavender to alpacas.

Lopez Island: best for cycling

With its flat terrain, traffic-calmed country roads and friendly motorists, Lopez is an idyllic place to head out on two wheels. Leave the car at home (or at least park it at the ferry terminal in Anacortes) and pretend you're in the Netherlands .

Covering 30 sq miles and supporting a population of less than 3000, Lopez's landscapes are punctuated with sunburnt fields, handsome wooden barns, curvaceous beaches and rustling tracts of forest. With no highways or traffic lights to worry about, it's a cyclist's dream. Indeed, it's rare to see a car traveling more than 45mph.

Lopez Bicycle Works in "the village" rents a full gamut of two-wheeled machines between May and September. This is also the best place to organize fishing charters and kayaking trips. The island is renowned for its pebbly sand beaches, where playful seals linger.

Orcas Island: best for kayaking

The most rugged of the three "big" San Juans, Orcas' jagged coastline, with its bluffs, bays and scattered islets, is rich pickings for kayakers. Stick close to the shore, and you'll be paddling through clear, sheltered waters kissed by mossy tracts of temperate rainforest. Look out for seals, eagles and perhaps an orca or two on the horizon.

If kayaking away from the coast is a worry, join an organized trip. Shearwater Adventures on Orcas is considered one of the best kayaking schools in the state and offers tours and lessons.

Orcas has a large state park with a recreational lake, several campgrounds and 38 miles of trails. Nearby is the archipelago's most illustrious hotel, the vintage 1906  Rosario Resort & Spa , complete with its own museum.

How much money do I need for the San Juan Islands?

Despite its reputation as a haven for rich yachters, the islands' varied facilities can cater to most budgets.

Although you won't find any Walmarts or cheap shopping malls, you will encounter reasonably priced bakeries and delis with enough ingredients to put together a rustic picnic.

For travelers on a budget, there's a hostel in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island and camping possibilities on all four of the ferry-accessible islands. Several of the smaller paddle-in islands have primitive camping, too (reachable by private boat or kayak). All campgrounds have tent sites, while some larger places have full-utility sites for RVs.

While the more affluent crowd gets around by private boat, the hoi polloi utilizes Washington State Ferries – fares are refreshingly cheap, especially if you don't bring a car.

How many days do I need in the San Juan Islands?

A minimum of three days is recommended, longer if you want to spend quality time on all three of the main islands.

Are there any towns on the islands?

The only real town in the archipelago is San Juan Island's Friday Harbor, with a population of around 2000. Eastsound on Orcas and Lopez Village on Lopez are civic and commercial hubs that resemble small villages, equipped with shops, restaurants and accommodations.

Do bears live on the San Juan Islands?

There is no permanent bear population. Very occasionally, a lone black bear will swim over from Vancouver Island or the US mainland. They are usually caught and relocated.

Is Shaw Island worth a visit?

Shaw is the smallest of the four islands served by the public ferries. Accommodation-wise, it has an 11-berth campground ; food-wise, there's just one general store. With a couple of beaches and a small network of quiet roads, it makes for a pleasant afternoon spin on a bicycle. Otherwise, stick to the larger islands.    

Which is the biggest island?

Orcas, but only by a smidgeon – it measures 57 sq miles compared to San Juan Island's 55 sq miles. In terms of population, San Juan Island has more people, nearly 9000 to Orcas' 6000.

Which is the best island for hiking?

Orcas Island, courtesy of the 5000-acre Moran State Park, has an abundance of trails crisscrossing the archipelago's most rugged terrain, including 2407ft Mt Constitution.  

What local dishes should I taste?

Shellfish is the archipelago's signature food, particularly locally caught razor clams, crab, oysters and scallops. Backing them up are two Pacific Northwest staples, halibut and salmon, both fished since pre-Columbian times. If seafood isn't your thing, don't worry – the islanders rear their own cows, pigs and sheep, with Lopez Island lamb heading the bill in local restaurants.

What are the best water activities?

Whale watching is hugely popular, and sightings of orca pods are almost guaranteed during the summer (May to October). There's even a good chance of spotting orca from the shoreline at San Juan Island's Lime Kiln Point State Park . Alternatively, whale-watching boat trips can be organized from Orcas and San Juan Island. Humpback, minke and gray whales also frequent local waters.

All three islands offer kayak rentals and tours. More experienced kayakers can progress along the Cascadia Marine Trail (CMT), a 160-mile sailing and paddling route of which the San Juans are an integral part. Many of the archipelago's more remote islands sport rustic CMT campsites equipped with landing areas, picnic tables and compost toilets, marked by official CMT signs.

Are there any non-athletic things to do?

San Juan Island has a whale museum , an art gallery, a museum and a winery with a tasting room . Orcas, Shaw and Lopez all have small historical museums, and The Rosario Resort on Orcas has a lovely spa .

My favorite thing to do in the San Juan Islands

The San Juans is the place I go for some "active relaxation," a place to switch off from world news and social media in favor of walking and running around quiet backroads and tree-rimmed coasts.

If I could bottle one experience, it would probably be the short, sharp 10-mile bike ride from the village of Eastsound to the top of Mt Constitution on Orcas Island. Taking in farmland, forest, shoreline, lakeside and mountainside on the way to the San Juans' highest point, I finish by climbing the observation tower on the summit, where island-speckled views stretch for miles over teal waters. If I had bionic vision, I would even be able to see my house – in Canada.

Daily costs

• Basic room for two in peak season: $190
• Campsites: tent/RV $15/45
• Ferry ticket with/without car: $45.85/15.85
• Bike/e-bike rental per day: $40/70
• Coffee: $3.50–4.50
• Sandwich: $8–13
• Dinner for two: $80–100
• Beer/pint at the bar: $6–8

This article was first published Apr 6, 2022 and updated Jan 30, 2024.

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3-Day All Inclusive Sailing Tour of the San Juan Islands

Trip Highlights

Spectacular Wildlife Viewing

Gourmet meals prepared by our private chef!

Tranquil sunset sailing

Remote Anchorages

Kayaks on board!

Stand up Paddleboards!

Bring the Family!

Description.

Join us for an all-inclusive multi day sailing tour of the most beautiful marine environment in the world!

Prices start at $1999 USD per person. Early and late season discounts available. Gratuities are welcome, but not included in cost of trip.

2024 Dates for 3-Day Tour:

Please note: THE DATES BELOW DO NOT REFLECT CURRENT RESERVATIONS. Please use the "Check Availability" button on this page to see a real-time calendar.

May: 5/10-5/12 June: 6/7-6/9 September: 9/7-9/9, 9/13-9/15, 9/18-9/20

If the dates you want are not listed above, please contact us. We are very flexible, and can often adjust the sailing schedule, and can create tours of any duration.

Our multi-day, all-inclusive sailing tours are the best way to unwind, relax and immerse yourself in the Salish Sea's natural beauty. With each day aboard, you'll feel a deeper connection to the natural world as you let the stresses of everyday land-based life melt away. We follow the rhythms of the wind and tides to show you the true beauty of this magical archipelago.

Sailing from our home port of Deer Harbor, Orcas Island, we are quickly in one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich areas of the world. Our naturalist captain will hoist the sails and guide your small group in an intimate exploration of wildlife and nature by eco-friendly sail power.

Sailing aboard the S/V Nawalak is about escaping the crowds, relaxing, and connecting with nature and the sea while exploring the quiet beaches and pristine islands of the northwest. During our tours we share with you the gems and secrets we’ve discovered in our 30+ years of sailing these amazing waterways.

Our chef specializes in bringing your culinary whims to fruition with rich, distinctive cuisine and the freshest local ingredients.

Our heated pilot house allows dining for up to 8 guests while enjoying panoramic views. Our staterooms are heated and comfortable with fresh linens, towels and toiletries provided.

Our home port is Deer Harbor Marina on beautiful Orcas Island. Private trips can start and end anywhere in the San Juan Islands or Puget Sound!

Our USCG licensed, lifelong sailor captain and crew will handle all the sail hoisting and navigating, but if you want to join in, or want to learn how to harness the wind, we love teaching.

Paddle Boards, Kayaks, Electric-powered dinghy, all available for guests to use.

Itineraries

Each trip is a unique experience. We stay in rhythm with the tides, currents and wind to bring you the best experience on the water possible. As locals, we know the "out of the way" places where the wildlife is, the best sailing routes and the calmest waters. If you have a special destination you want to see, just let us know.

5164 Deer Harbor Rd Deer Harbor WA

Why take this tour?

Our 3-day tours offer you a longer chance to experience some of the most scenic and intriguing places along the NW Coast.

The unique beauty and sunny weather of Washington’s San Juan Islands have been famous for generations. Nestled in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, the nearly 200 unique islands get about half the rainfall of Seattle. The alluring charm of this archipelago is expressed both in its natural landscapes, and its diverse wildlife – above and below the water. Grass and moss carpeted hillsides give way to graceful madronas and sculpted firs. Wildflowers fill the meadows in spring and early summer. The occasional sand or gravel beach is punctuated by whimsically shaped sandstone, beckoning the kids to explore. Rich emerald waters yield fish for the grill, crab and prawns for a shore-side feast. Three groups of orca whales call the islands home during the year, chasing the salmon that migrate through. Eagles perch in shore-side trees, and a variety of seabirds cruise the bays and channels, diving for fish. Protected park land abounds with several islands devoted entirely to the marine explorer. A large variety of trails provide great opportunities for discovery. A sunny overlook, a hidden cove, a quaint one-room school house, or an abandoned lighthouse are among the myriad treasures to be found. Local artist’s galleries, restaurants, and elegant resorts with spas lend variety on the bigger islands.

Gourmet meals prepared daily by our on-board chef

Kayaks, sups, electric inflatable dinghy, experienced naturalist uscg captain, convenient pick up and drop off locations any where in the san juan islands, gratuities not included in cost of tour, but are welcome, frequently asked questions, what kinds of wildlife might i see, what sort of clothes should i bring, what is the weather like, what time of year should i sail with you, what if i get seasick, are children welcome on your charters, what is a “crewed” charter, do i need to be in good shape, what do your trips include, how often do we get off the boat, what can i expect to learn, what areas do you charter in, what if i'm a solo traveler who prefers my own stateroom, can you take more than six passengers, do i need to know how to sail, things to know.

Nawalak (Kwakwaka'wakw word meaning spirit of nature) is a 55' Pilothouse Ketch Sailboat. Our heated and dry pilothouse means if we encounter a rain shower (it is the PNW!) guests and the captain can sit cozily warm and dry while having panoramic views. The interior is created almost entirely of teak and mahogany having five private staterooms, plus two heads with enclosed, private showers. There is also a well equipped, commercial quality galley and on deck bbq grill allowing our chef to create sumptuous meals each day.

What should I bring?

Included in your tour is all food and non-alcoholic beverages. A bottle of wine is served with each dinner, and if you would like to bring your own wine, beer or spirits, feel free to do so. A warm cozy stateroom with fresh linens and blankets awaits you after a day sailing and exploring. All towels and toiletries are provided also. Feel free to bring any books, cameras, sketchbooks, journals etc.

Cancellation Policy

The 30% deposit is fully refundable minus a $200 admin fee if cancellation occurs 90 days or more before scheduled departure. Cancellation after 90 days prior to departure may result in forfeiture of the charter fee. A refund of your total charter fee will be made if your reservation(s) are filled by another party, minus a $200 admin fee and any fee decreases incurred by EISC.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at any time – we very much look forward to sailing with you!

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Sail & Paddle Tour

New this year! Hey there, avid kayaker or paddle boarder! Think you've seen and conquered it all? We invite you to paddle the mystical waters of the San Juan Islands, while you return each evening to the safe, warm and...

5-Day All Inclusive Sailing Tour of the San Juan Islands

Join us for an all-inclusive 5-Day sailing tour of the most beautiful marine environment in the world! All inclusive prices start at $2499 USD per person. Early and late season discounts available. Gratuities are welcome, but not included in cost...

6-Day All Inclusive Sailing Tour of the San Juan Islands

Join us for an all-inclusive 6-Day sailing tour of the most beautiful marine environment in the world! All inclusive prices start at $2699 USD per person. Early and late season discounts available. Gratuities are welcome, but not included in cost...

San Juan Islands 6-hour Day Sail

Climb aboard and immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of the San Juan Islands. All inclusive prices start at $229 USD per person, check dates on the right. Please note: If the dates you want are not listed, or another...

INSIDE PASSAGE - Desolation Sound, Broughton Archipelago & Great Bear Rainforest

We will be offering this tour again in late August/early September 2025. Please use the contact form on this page to let us know you have interest, or have any questions. Prices are yet to be determined, but will probably...

4 Ways to Cruise the San Juan Islands

With 408 miles of shoreline and 172 named islands, Washington’s San Juan Islands are best explored by small ship. Below we detail a selection of San Juan Island cruises that allow you to access this close-to-home archipelago in style and ease.

Expect to meet pods of orcas feasting on salmon, playful seals and sea lions lounging on rocky islets, black bear and deer flourishing in deep evergreen forests, as well as royalty atop the trees since the region hosts the highest concentration of bald eagles in the Lower 48. The San Juans are also dubbed the “Gourmet Archipelago” with culinary festivals, shellfish farms, vineyards, breweries, distilleries and tasting rooms. Let’s go!

IN THIS POST – 4 Ways to Cruise the San Juan Islands: 1. Cruise on a Historic Small Yacht – 6 days, round-trip Bellingham 2. Take a National Geographic Cruise – 8 days, round-trip Seattle 3. Pass by en route to Alaska – 13 days, Seattle to Juneau 4. Book a Private Boat Charter

1) Cruise the San Juans on a Historic Yacht

The 6-day Voyage Through the San Juan Islands aboard 12-guest Catalyst offers cruises round-trip from Bellingham, Washington—a short drive, flight or shuttle bus ride from Seattle. Experience the emerald jewels of the San Juan Archipelago on this close-to-home voyage, with daily opportunities to experience nature in an active way while also tasting local foods, beer, wine and spirits. Start each morning with a walk or kayak paddle and spend each afternoon visiting with the vintners, brewers and distillers that the Pacific Northwest is known for.

The Catalyst is an intimate small ship offering historic charm and hearty, experienced crew members with character. The crew will surely be among the highlights of your Puget Sound and San Juan Islands cruise. Her original 1932 Washington Diesel engine is the only one like it in the world, so history and boat aficionados will love sailing the San Juans on this boat. Plus there’s the ship’s gourmet cuisine paired with the beers, wines and spirits discovered daily on her Puget Sound cruises.

2) Take a National Geographic San Juan Island Cruise

The newest ship to offer San Juan cruises, via the 8-day  Exploring British Columbia & the San Juan Islands  trip, is the 100-guest National Geographic Venture. This purpose-built expedition vessel launched in 2018, in California, and now embarks on regularly scheduled departures. Get on this ship for the excellent expedition staff, high-tech exploration and educational equipment.

National Geographic Venture  is state-of-the-art, a vessel made for exploring coastal waters, shallow coves and fast-moving channels thanks to her shallow draft that draws only nine feet of water. This allows her to sail into places where much larger ships cannot go, and further setting her apart from other San Juan Island cruise ships is a guide complement that includes a historian, a geologist/naturalist, a wellness specialist and a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor.

Her San Juan Island cruises operate round-trip from Seattle. Two days are spent cruising Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands by expedition landing craft, kayak, paddleboard and hike, with a special stop at picturesque Friday Harbor to visit the Whale Museum and local shops. The world-class Canadian city of Vancouver is a nearby option for bonus travel before or after exploring the San Juan Islands by boat,.

3) Sail Past the San Juans in Route to Alaska

If you want to see the best of the Northwest and don’t mind just passing through the San Juans more quickly, a good choice is the comprehensive 13-day  Inside Passage with Olympic National Park & 2 Days in Glacier Bay  aboard the 22-guest Safari Quest , 36-guest Safari Explorer , 84-guest Safari Endeavour  or 86-guest Wilderness Legacy . This trip visits two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Glacier Bay National Park and Olympic National Park—plus offers opportunities for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, beach combing and enjoying guided skiff rides. 

There’s no dedicated day in the San Juan Islands, but you will sail past them. Add to this stops in Canada’s Inside Passage and Alaska’s Misty Fjords National Monument, Ketchikan and Glacier Bay National Park, and you truly have a trip that goes beyond what any other San Juan cruises do.

4) Book a Boat Charter San Juan Islands

A yacht charter in the San Juan Islands is an ideal vacation if you want to choose your own route and activities. You can actually save money when you book a San Juan Islands boat charter as blocking out a whole ship for your group costs less per cabin than booking on regularly scheduled San Juan cruises. Our most popular yachts to charter in the San Juan Islands are the 12-guest Catalyst and the 22-guest Safari Quest , but the larger expedition ships listed above as well as other yachts may be available for charter cruises .

Note that charters are limited by the ships’ locations as these yachts also position up for small ship Alaska cruises . Your best bet to secure a private charter in the San Juan Islands is to travel in the seasons that these ships are positioned around Seattle: spring and fall. Contact our experts to discuss your charter options for San Juan Island cruises. We can ensure you know what San Juan cruises and Puget Sound cruises are available for your group.

TALK TO A CHARTER EXPERT

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This post detailing San Juan Island cruises is among AdventureSmith Explorations’ extensive collection of Small Ship Cruise Guides . Learn more about  Pacific Northwest cruises  or contact us any time for a personalized recommendation on San Juan Island cruises from Seattle, Vancouver and Alaska; cruising Puget Sound; and yacht charter options in the San Juan Islands. Feel free to ask us your questions about San Juan cruises right in the comments.

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We are going to celebrate our 50th anniversary. We did a small ship cruise in Alaska 20 years ago but never in this area. Our adult children would make it 6 of us. Is there a charter we could do for around 5 days in August? There are teachers in the group who would not be able to go in September.

Hi Dorene, What a wonderful way to celebrate your milestone! If you enjoyed Alaska, you will love the San Juan Islands. An Adventure Specialist will be in touch soon to help you hone in on the ideal ship with August availability.

Hi, We will be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary 10/4/23 and have a great love for the San Juans and the NW in general. Would you suggest a 3-day tour (possibly longer) for the two of us seniors who will be 79 and 81 at the time of the trip. We are in reasonably good shape, healthy, and love anything outdoors and on the water. One of us is limited in range of walking but short jaunts are fine. We still run our small boat and enjoy some biking (one a recumbent) but cannot imagine anything better than a few days in the San Juans. Suggestions are welcome as we probably need to plan early.

Thanks for your question Leonard, and congratulations! Small ship is the best way to explore the many islands of Washington’s San Juan’s plus, an even more incredible way to celebrate such a milestone. While you will find single day and shorter 3 day cruises out of Bellingham, we are strong proponents that longer is better. There is so much to see and do, we focus on longer itineraries ranging from 6 to 8 days – the shortest being the 6-day Voyage Through the San Juan Islands aboard historic yacht 12-guest Catalyst . If you would like to talk about this itinerary please don’t hesitate to contact our experts .

Would like an itinerary to see the San Juan’s by a personal yacht

Hi Betsy, Take a look at the 6-day Voyage Through the San Juan Islands itinerary that is sailed by two small historic yachts, the 12-guest Catalyst or 8-guest Westward . Or for more information on chartering a yacht in the in the San Juan Islands please contact us .

I am interesting in an an-inclusive charter, with captain/staff, in late August or September 2021. For perhaps 6-8 ppl. Is this something you do? For a week or so…

Hi Brandi, thanks for your comment. Yes, our charter cruises are both all-inclusive and fully crewed charters. Having an expert team aboard is essential to a safe and successful voyage. An Adventure Specialist will be in contact with you soon to help you find the right charter ship and the trip for your group.

Thinking about an all inclusive trip thru the San Juan worn family to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. There would be 10-15 people. Interested in only our family on the boat. Would that be the 8 day, 22 passenger trip? If so 9-8 days is too long for most.

Hello Janis, What a great way to celebrate an anniversary! Congratulations! Chartering a boat with this size group is a great idea and often offers more flexibility for creating unique itineraries. An Adventure Specialist will be touch to help you sort your options.

We are late trying to find something, but interested in a trip through the San Juan Islands from Seattle. Three, four or five days…a nice boat. Nothing too big. Anything available in mid to late June or are we too late? Two of us, two beds. Janet

Hello Janet, Our shortest San Juan Islands small ship cruise from Seattle is the 8-day Exploring British Columbia & the San Juan Islands aboard the National Geographic Venture, which cruises the San Juan Islands then extends north through the Strait of Georgia. This 8-day schedule offers many more opportunities to see orca whales, eagles and other wildlife that might not be as plentiful on a shorter cruise. If you are able to spend a few more days in the Pacific Northwest, this round-trip Seattle cruise is truly an experience of a lifetime. One of our Adventure Specialists will contact you to discuss your options and to help guide you through the decision making process.

Get Aboard San Juan Island Cruises & Ships

Browse our San Juan Islands cruises or discover more about small ship cruising in the Pacific Northwest with AdventureSmith Explorations. Our team is the ultimate resource, matching you with the best cruise for your interests. Our San Juan cruises and Puget Sound cruises include routes that focus just on the islands, as well as itineraries that sail up to Alaska.

Contact Us - 4 Ways to Cruise the San Juan Islands

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Welcome to San Juan Yachting

We don't try to be the biggest...but we passionately want to be the best.

Instruction

One of the most experienced, well-respected yachting schools in the Pacific Northwest and accredited by the Recreational Powerboat Association.

With over 40 years of experience and 55 well-maintained sailboats and powerboats, our passion is to provide the very best bareboat charter vacation possible.

Our brokers have logged a lot of sea time. They understand boats, value, and the individual client needs. Most of all, whether you are a seller or a buyer, they deliver.

Special Opportunities

T. 360-671-8089 (charter) | T. 360-671-8339 (school) | T. 360-671-0829 (brokerage)

2615 South Harbor Loop, Suite 1, Bellingham, Washington 98225

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When you charter with San Juan Sailing, you experience...

• Professional maintenance – each off-season, all of our sailboats undergo a 105-task preventive maintenance checklist, the most comprehensive and exacting preventive maintenance program in the charter industry worldwide! (See this checklist under “Charter Planning/Preventive Maintenance” on our website.)
• 40 years of experience – Founded in 1982, we are among the region’s senior sailboat charter managers.
• Complimentary personalized service by boating specialists. We know the islands and love cruising them!
• Complimentary yacht cleaning service on your return from your charter.
• Free parking with 24 hour surveillance.
• Personal cruise planning assistance.
• Chase boat – available 24 hours should you encounter any difficulties.
• Discounts for multi-week and multi-boat cruises.
• Handy guides to our personal favorite spots in the islands.

Special Rates

• Multi-Week: 10% off the charter rate and 25% off the daily damage waiver for your second consecutive week of charter. 15% off the charter rate and 50% off the daily damage waiver for your 3rd consecutive week of charter and beyond.
• Multi-Boat Charters: 10% discounts for multi-boat charters (flotillas of 3 or more boats).
• Preferred Charter Guest Discount: As a repeat charter guest in good standing we give you 5% off the charter rate on your week-long charter.
• Veterans & First Responders: As a member or veteran of the US Armed Forces we offer you $150 off your week-long (or longer) sail or power charter. This discount is also extended to police, fire and EMT first responders. (Cannot be combined with the Preferred Charter Guest Discount.)

Special Opportunities

T. 360-671-4300 (charter) | T. 360-671-8339 (school) | T. 360-671-0829 (brokerage)

2615 South Harbor Loop, Suite 1, Bellingham, Washington 98225

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Boating and Sailing The San Juan Islands and Surrounding Area

Travel Guide, Itineraries, Maps, Charts, Parks and Camping Cruises. Places to go. Things to do. Pictures, Reviews, Moorages, Marinas, Boat Ramps and Much More.

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What size boat is best in the san juans bigger boats - smaller anything goes.

San Juan Island Yacht Charters

Cruise the san juan islands with jamal charters.

The San Juan Islands are located within the Washington’s Puget Sound and are a destination for fishing, boating, sea kayaking, scuba diving, golf, and snow sports, with proximity to Seattle. Home to some of America’s most well-known corporations, Seattle is a growing city that is still a popular vacation destination.

SAMPLE ITINERARY: SAN JUAN ISLANDS

The San Juan Islands are made up of many islands of which 172 have names. There are 17 state parks within the islands. All of the islands are within two to three hours of cruising. The four main islands are Orcas, San Juan, Lopez and Shaw. It is a day’s cruise from the Seattle area to the San Juans. From Bellingham it is two to three hours. There are so many bays, harbors and anchorages that you could spend several summers cruising the entire area.

A typical ten-day cruise in the San Juan Islands would be as follows:

• Day 1: Leave Bellingham Harbor and cruise to Sucia Islands. Drop anchor in Echo Bay. Sucia Islands are a cluster of 11 islands and inlets. Fossils can be found in one of the bays as well as oysters, clams & crabs. Hiking trails are abundant throughout the Islands. Sucia was known in the early days as the base for smuggling and rum running.
• Day 2: Cruise to Stuart Island. There are two main anchorages on this island: Reid and Prevost Harbors. Anchor in one of these areas to explore the island on one of the hiking trails. There are picnic sites, docks and floats. A typical hike would be to Turn Point lighthouse, which has a sweeping view of the Canadian Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island. Both harbors are good places to practice your kayaking.
• Day 3: Cruise to San Juan Island and Roche Harbor Resort, which is the famous home of the Roche Harbor Lime & Cement Company. This historical island provides many fun and interesting places to explore. The formal garden in front of the Hotel de Haro is quite beautiful. Besides a restaurant, bar, and shops, there is also an Olympic size swimming pool and tennis courts. The hike to the mausoleum is not to be missed. At sunset each night, we enjoy the traditional flag ceremony.
• Day 4: Cruise to Westcott and Garrison Bays. Here we will crab, tour an oyster farm and visit the British Camp, which was established in the 1860s and remained active until 1872 after the Pig War. The blockhouse, commissary and barracks are still standing.
• Day 5: Cruise to the town of Friday Harbor, the largest in the islands, which also serves as the county seat. There are all types of shopping available only a short walk from where the boat is anchored. Visit the Whale Museum or the University of Washington Marine Laboratories, located right in the harbor.
• Day 6: Cruise to Spencer Spit State Park on Lopez Island. This beautiful sandy finger of land is perfect for picnics and hiking. Also, it is a great place to catch crab.
• Day 7: Cruise the islands, looking for pods of Orca Whales (also known as killer whales) and do some exciting whale watching. Spend the evening in one of the dozens of lovely bays.
• Day 8: Cruise to the beautiful and charming city of Victoria, British Columbia. Clear customs, sightsee, shop, enjoy high tea at the Empress Hotel and visit the Maritime Museum. Victoria is not to be missed.
• Day 9: Cruise to Sidney Harbor and visit the famed and internationally known Butchart Gardens. Cruise to Sidney Spit Marine Park and enjoy a barbeque picnic on the beach. Hike around the island and see wild sheep, deer, pheasants and peacocks.
• Day 10: Return to Bellingham.

Book Your Amazing

San Juan Islands Sailing Adventures

NW Sailing Adventures of Bellingham, WA, offers an all-inclusive sailboat charter experience in the San Juan Islands. Our exciting sailing vacation packages are sure to fit almost any schedule, budget or occasion.

Private Sailing Yacht Charters in the San Juan Islands

Diminuendo is exclusively yours when you book a multi-day private yacht charter. This allows you the flexibility of creating your own customized charter schedule, itinerary, and menu.

Family or school reunion in the works? Your party will have the entire yacht at your disposal. Diminuendo’s three guest cabins can accommodate a maximum of six guests. We find that a party of four is ideal. Although a party of six can feel a bit close, they will be your friends and family! And unlike many charter companies, we gladly welcome kids aboard.

Planning a getaway for you and your special someone? Celebrate your special anniversary, honeymoon, or propose on bent knee in the most romantic of settings. Your Captain will gladly officiate your nuptials or renew your vows aboard your yacht or on a beautiful beach.

Take a look at a couple of sample itineraries.

This can help you understand what anchorages may be important to stop at or stay away from. Captain Scott and First Mate/Chef Todd are dedicated to creating a customized trip created around your personal desires.

• 5 or 6 Day Week Aweigh Sailing Tours  – San Juan Islands
• 3 or 4 Day Aweigh Sailing Tours  – San Juan Islands
• 2 day or 1 Day Sailing Adventures  – Bellingham and San Juans
• Wedding and Specialty Cruises

Looking for a San Juan Islands chartered sailboat vacation?

Look no further than Northwest Sailing Adventures!

Washington’s Island Getaway: How to Do the San Juan Islands

W hen thinking about a trip to the Pacific Northwest, islands aren’t the first thing that come to mind. Forests, mountains and lots of rain are more stereotypical. So while visitors might not be as familiar with the San Juan Islands, located just off the coast of Seattle , locals flock to this beloved archipelago every summer to take advantage of the rare sunny days in the region. Accessible only by ferry, private boat, or small local airlines if you prefer a scenic (but expensive) sea flight, anyone who’s spent part of their summer here will vouch that this remote haven is one of the most beautiful places in the world. 

Honestly, it’s a little bit of a hassle to get there, but completely worth the experience once you arrive. Technically, there are close to 200 islands in the archipelago , but visitors frequent four main islands: San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island and, sparingly, Shaw Island. San Juan and Orcas are the largest by far, and receive the most visitors, particularly during the summer months. But if it’s your first time heading out to the San Juans, you’ll need some pointers, so here’s a complete rundown of exactly how to get there, which ones to spend the most time at and what to do once you get there.

But First, Overnight in Seattle

No matter what your plans, getting to Seattle for a day or two first is a good idea. For one thing, the Anacortes Ferry Terminal is a two- to three-hour drive from the city. For another, most of the ferries leave early in the day and require arrival at least a half hour before departure. After a long flight, or even a short one, getting directly into a rental car and driving to the ferry makes for a pretty long travel day. Even if you’re trying to squeeze in a weekend trip, pad in an extra day (or two) to spend in the city as a buffer with the rest of your travel, preferably at one of these hotels. Sprinting toward a ferry as it departs is not a good feeling, as I may or may not have learned from firsthand experience. 

The Edgewater

The Edgewater’s claim to fame is that it’s Seattle’s “only over-water hotel” — it’s literally built over Puget Sound and affords the kind of stunning waterfront views people will always pay top dollar for. The other rather wonderful claim to fame at this property is its connection to The Beatles — yes, the actual Fab Four stayed here during their first world tour in 1964. They rather infamously “fished” out their hotel room window, and allegedly even caught something. If you had any doubts about how close it is to the water, let that anecdote put them to rest. Grab dinner at their waterfront restaurant, Six Seven , and hang out in the cozy, cabin-like bar for a nightcap, or just have that drink on your own waterfront balcony. 

Thompson Seattle

If you’re only here for a night or two, why waste time? Thompson Seattle is right in the thick of things. You can walk to Pike Place Market and the world’s oldest Starbucks, and stand in line to get…your regular coffee order, then stroll over to the Gum Wall to get a very gross but necessary selfie. Wander through Pike Place and either pick up some local snacks from the vendors or head off into one of the cafes for a bite to eat. If you can brave the lines, Pike Place Chowder will not disappoint. If you don’t end up eating at the market, the hotel’s own rooftop bar, The Nest , offers stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, and the ground floor restaurant, Conversation , focuses on fresh, local seafood and farm-to-table sourcing.

You Are Here: Seattle

Getting to the san juan islands by ferry.

Leave plenty of time to get to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal. If traffic is clear, it should only take two hours from Seattle, but with traffic it can be up to three. Once you get to the terminal, lines are likely, so plan to be there at least an hour before your allotted departure time. If you arrive at the check-in less than 30 minutes before departure, they will not let you board. No exceptions, so plan wisely! All four of the main islands are accessible by ferry from the terminal, and there’s also an airport shuttle to the terminal if you opt not to drive or stay over in Seattle. 

The islands themselves are fairly remote, so securing a car is highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors. By and large, most people get to the islands by ferry, and that’s partially because the islands are not walkable. Even the most populous one, Orcas, is made up of different enclaves that are all about a half hour away from each other. There are taxis and Ubers sparingly available, but for adventuring, exploring and general peace of mind, it’s best to have a vehicle. 

If you’re in a car, you will need to make a ferry reservation before arriving at the terminal via the Washington State Ferries website . Reservations for the summer through September, the high season, initially open up two months before the start of the season in late April. This is the best time to make a reservation, as more are released two months before every sailing date, and also two days before, but there are far fewer slots. If you can’t get a reservation, it is possible to travel standby, but space is never guaranteed this way. Reservations are free to make, and can be canceled without charge up to 24 hours before. Reservations should be made for both the westbound trip (toward the islands) and eastbound back to Anacortes.

Once you arrive at the ferry terminal, trade your reservation for a ticket, which is about $50 for a car and driver, plus $15 per passenger, so a round-trip ticket for two people is around $65. Since this is much cheaper than a flight, and the ferry ride itself is around an hour, which is about as long as the flight, the ferries reign supreme. And despite a little inevitable hassle and confusion, once you’re onboard, there’s food and drink, alcohol and plenty of views, like the occasional whales (orcas), dolphins, sea lions and more.

Pro tip: If you do cross the ferry without a car, there are rental cars available on the island right at the ferry terminal. Then again, current demand indicates these will be expensive and are likely to book up.

Getting to the San Juan Islands by airplane

San Juan Airlines and Kenmore Air are the two carriers who regularly fly to the San Juan Islands. San Juan Airlines operate land planes and one-way tickets start at $114, but their terminal is located in Bellingham, so it’s still about an hour and a half drive from Seattle, and travelers are required to pay for parking for more than 36 hours. Kenmore Air operates both land and seaplanes, and departs from several small airports throughout Seattle, which means travelers can skip the drive. Both airlines have frequent flights to Eastsound on Orcas Island and Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, and they also offer private charters aside from scheduled flights. Rates fluctuate quite a bit based on season and booking time frame, so it’s best to connect with the airlines directly.

Visiting Orcas Island

By far the most popular and bucolic of all four islands, Orcas is the perfect place for a first-timer or newbie to begin exploring. At 57 square miles, there are multiple settled areas throughout the island, but Eastsound is the central village closest to the ferry, and the Outlook Inn is hands down the best hotel in the area. A historic property built in 1876 by Charles W. Shattuck (a homesteader who’s affectionately referred to as “the founder of Eastsound”), the building changed hands many times before settling into its contemporary iteration in the 1970s when the current owners acquired it. Columbia Hospitality , who rep a number of boutique properties in the region, took over management and operations in 2022.

Sleek white and grey interiors make the Outlook Inn’s Water’s Edge and Bay View suites the most desirable rooms on the island, as do their proximity to the water. Water’s Edge suites are, as the name suggests, right on the shoreline and separated from the main building, and Bay View suites have private balconies and unobstructed waterfront views. The inn’s own New Leaf Cafe also has waterfront views and a hyper-seasonal menu highlighting Pacific Northwest farmers and purveyors. The hotel is just a block or two from the center of town, where freshly made pastries at Brown Bear Baking and oceanfront snacks at The White Horse Pub were highlights for casual dining. On the higher-end side of things, local tasting menus at Houlme or Matia Kitchen are available Thursday to Sunday. 

Outside of Eastsound, other parts of Orcas worth exploring include a drive out to Buck Bay Shellfish Farm , for caught-this-morning seafood of all kinds: oysters, shrimp, crab, halibut, salmon, clams and whatever else came in with the tide. Around another side of the island, Doe Bay Resort boasts clothing-optional hot springs and sauna , and down at Deer Harbor, sign up for a day of learning to sail with Captain Ward at Northwest Classic Daysailing . Ward has been sailing around the islands for the past two decades, and his classic 1948 wooden sloop Aura is available for booking May through October. When you’re out with him, the captain will let passengers actively sail the boat, so get ready to be put to work. He’s also incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the area.

Another recommended water activity is guided sea kayaking with Shearwater Kayak Tours , and while you’re on land, a relatively easy hike up Mt. Constitution affords views of the islands for miles. Down in Rosario, yet another Orcas community, touring the historic Moran Mansion (now a museum) is another must. Self-guided tours are available daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the high season. Once you’ve seen all there is to see on Orcas, it’s time to take a couple day trips to the other islands. 

Visiting San Juan Island

Roche Harbor and Friday Harbor are the two central hubs on San Juan Island, although the ferry only lands at Friday Harbor. The commercial hub for the San Juan area, Friday Harbor isn’t quite as beautiful or remote as some of the other areas, but it does boast an incredibly scenic lavender farm. Visiting the Pelindaba Lavender Farm is free, and given its location right on the water, photos from this particular site are usually very epic. For the foodie side of things, make your way over to the other side of San Juan and visit Westcott Bay Shellfish Company in Roche Harbor. Their Tide Tables picnic area is literally at the water’s edge, and you can watch fishermen catch and shuck (and grill) the oysters that make their way to your table. Barbecued with various compound butters, these oysters are so good they’ve even been known to convert avowed oyster haters.

Visiting Lopez Island

Lopez is great for a day trip, but there isn’t enough to do here to warrant an overnight stay. Much smaller than either Orcas or San Juan, one thing Lopez Island is known for is its food. In fact, ice cream from the Lopez Island Creamery is so popular that it’s exported to the other islands — you can find it all over the San Juan area. But since you’re there, why not go to the source? Pints, ice cream sandwiches and ice cream pies are all on offer, and they make most of their products with solar power, just another reason to support.

Other things to check out on “Slopez,” the most laidback island of the bunch, include the ramen, gyoza and udon at Setsunai Noodle Bar , local, plant-forward dishes at Ursa Minor , and don’t forget to grab a loaf of bread at Barn Owl Bakery , where they use wheat grown and milled on Lopez with machinery from the 1800s. 

Visiting Shaw Island

Known as “ the holy island ,” most visitors drawn here are intrigued by the nuns who inhabit the isle , which is just 7.7 square miles. As the smallest of the four main islands, Shaw has a population of fewer than 200 people year-round. As such, there are no hotels or rentals available, but there is one grocery store, Shaw General Store , and one park and campground area . 

If you’re kayaking or hiking around the island, Shaw could be a good place to crash for the night, otherwise it’s good for an afternoon trip, and particularly good for boaters, who like the peace and quiet. Indian Cove is the perfect place to moor if you’re boating, as it’s also next to the 60-acre Shaw Island County Park, where pristine beaches and abundant tide pools make for an idyllic afternoon.

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• News & Stories

Troubled fishing boat successfully raised from sea floor off San Juan Island

Salvage crews have successfully raised a 48-foot fishing boat that had sunk near the northwest tip of San Juan Island.

The sinking on May 3 was not the F/V Chief Joseph’s first trouble at sea.

The U.S. Coast Guard had found the vessel’s captain negligent for abandoning the helm for an ill-timed toilet break immediately before a late-night collision off the Oregon coast in 2021.

Around 6 a.m. on May 3, Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received a report that the 48-foot commercial fishing vessel was taking on water off Henry Island, immediately west of San Juan Island, with its owner, Steve Zidell of Samoa, California, and his dog aboard.

As the 76-year-old boat sank, it spilled an unknown amount of diesel, leaving a half-mile sheen and a field of debris on the surface of Haro Strait, the wide, current-churned passage separating Washington’s San Juan Islands from Canada’s Vancouver Island.

According to the Coast Guard, Zidell and his dog climbed into a life raft and made their way to the rocky shore of sparsely inhabited Henry Island, where they were rescued.

The next day, salvage divers were able to vacuum up 1,110 gallons of diesel from the fuel tanks of the Chief Joseph as it sat in about 60 feet of water, according to the San Juan County Department of Emergency Management.

“The San Juan Islands are clearly a challenging place to get to and operate in, and getting the fuel off the boat in short order was a major success and avoided a much more impactful pollution event,” department director Brendan Cowan said in an email.

Spilled diesel, while toxic to wildlife that encounters it, is less harmful than crude oil: Diesel quickly evaporates, rather than lingering for years in the environment.

Whale watchers spotted at least seven orcas near Henry Island on the day of the sinking, according to the nonprofit Orca Network.

Orcas would not know to avoid a diesel sheen, according to biologist Deborah Giles with the San Juan-based nonprofit Wild Orca.

“They don't have a sense of smell like other mammals do,” she told KUOW in 2022.

One week after the sinking, a team from Global Diving and Salvage managed to lift the Chief Joseph to the surface with a barge crane, then haul it to Anacortes. The Washington Department of Natural Resources took possession of the boat and is negotiating its disposition with Zidell. To keep his boat, he would have to pay the agency's cost of recovering it from the sea floor by May 27.

“The fishing boat sank in shallow water and didn’t slide any deeper, which was fortunate because it is a high energy, high current location,” Cowan told the Victoria Times-Colonist .

RELATED: Fishing boat that sank in orca waters ran into trouble 24 hours earlier

Another fishing boat, the Aleutian Isle, sank about a mile south of Henry Island in 2022, sending a two-mile sheen of diesel into Haro Strait. Currents pushed that boat along the sea floor to a depth of 240 feet. It took five weeks for deep-water dive teams to bring the Aleutian Isle to the surface.

That sinking is still under investigation by the U.S. Coast Guard.

In April, an empty tandem kayak was found bobbing in Henry Island’s Open Bay, according to the San Juan Islander. Two Canadian brothers had been paddling it on a day trip from Victoria to D'Arcy Island, the southernmost of Canada’s Gulf Islands. Their bodies were found 10 to 15 miles to the south of Henry Island, highlighting the hazards of Haro Strait to boats of all sizes.

RELATED: Washington’s border waters are on the cusp of a major rise in oil tanker traffic

Environmentalists and tribes on both sides of the watery border are concerned about the imminent increase in oil tanker traffic in Haro Strait and other transboundary waters expected to begin in May. The Trans Mountain Pipeline, after a multibillion-dollar expansion project, is now able to carry three times the crude oil it used to from Alberta to tankers docking near Vancouver, British Columbia.

Trouble off the Oregon Coast

In July 2021, the Chief Joseph was motoring south to California when it rammed into another fishing boat, the F/V Linda, about 15 miles out from Yaquina Bay, Oregon.

According to Coast Guard investigators, the Linda was adrift, with both crew members asleep but its sodium deck lights on, when the Chief Joseph hit it about 4 a.m.

“The Master of the CHIEF JOSEPH indicated that he stepped away from the operating station for a period to defecate, only to find upon his return, the starboard beam of the LINDA directly off the bow of his vessel with the risk of collision imminent,” Coast Guard investigators found.

The Linda’s hull was breached and the boat was taking on water. With the help of a pump provided by a Coast Guard response boat, the Linda made it back to port.

Coast Guard investigators said both captains violated regulations aimed at preventing collisions. They found the unnamed captain of the Chief Joseph negligent for “purposefully leaving the operating station of an underway vessel.”

The Linda’s insurance underwriter determined the boat was a total loss and sued Zidell for damages.

The parties reached an undisclosed settlement in June 2023.

Zidell did not respond to KUOW's requests for comment.

KUOW senior reporter John Ryan joined the station as its first full-time investigative reporter in 2009 and took on the environment beat in 2018. He focuses on climate change, energy, and the ecosystems of the Puget Sound region. He has also investigated toxic air pollution, landslides, failed cleanups, and money in politics for KUOW.

Get Local Stories

Delivered to your inbox daily, weekly, or monthly..

You make this possible. Support our independent, nonprofit newsroom today.

• News & Stories

Troubled fishing boat successfully raised from sea floor off San Juan Island

Salvage crews have successfully raised a 48-foot fishing boat that had sunk near the northwest tip of San Juan Island.

The sinking on May 3 was not the F/V Chief Joseph’s first trouble at sea.

The U.S. Coast Guard had found the vessel’s captain negligent for abandoning the helm for an ill-timed toilet break immediately before a late-night collision off the Oregon coast in 2021.

Around 6 a.m. on May 3, Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received a report that the 48-foot commercial fishing vessel was taking on water off Henry Island, immediately west of San Juan Island, with its owner, Steve Zidell of Samoa, California, and his dog aboard.

As the 76-year-old boat sank, it spilled an unknown amount of diesel, leaving a half-mile sheen and a field of debris on the surface of Haro Strait, the wide, current-churned passage separating Washington’s San Juan Islands from Canada’s Vancouver Island.

According to the Coast Guard, Zidell and his dog climbed into a life raft and made their way to the rocky shore of sparsely inhabited Henry Island, where they were rescued.

The next day, salvage divers were able to vacuum up 1,110 gallons of diesel from the fuel tanks of the Chief Joseph as it sat in about 60 feet of water, according to the San Juan County Department of Emergency Management.

“The San Juan Islands are clearly a challenging place to get to and operate in, and getting the fuel off the boat in short order was a major success and avoided a much more impactful pollution event,” department director Brendan Cowan said in an email.

Spilled diesel, while toxic to wildlife that encounters it, is less harmful than crude oil: Diesel quickly evaporates, rather than lingering for years in the environment.

Whale watchers spotted at least seven orcas near Henry Island on the day of the sinking, according to the nonprofit Orca Network.

Orcas would not know to avoid a diesel sheen, according to biologist Deborah Giles with the San Juan-based nonprofit Wild Orca.

“They don't have a sense of smell like other mammals do,” she told KUOW in 2022.

One week after the sinking, a team from Global Diving and Salvage managed to lift the Chief Joseph to the surface with a barge crane, then haul it to Anacortes. The Washington Department of Natural Resources took possession of the boat and is negotiating its disposition with Zidell. To keep his boat, he would have to pay the agency's cost of recovering it from the sea floor by May 27.

“The fishing boat sank in shallow water and didn’t slide any deeper, which was fortunate because it is a high energy, high current location,” Cowan told the Victoria Times-Colonist .

RELATED: Fishing boat that sank in orca waters ran into trouble 24 hours earlier

Another fishing boat, the Aleutian Isle, sank about a mile south of Henry Island in 2022, sending a two-mile sheen of diesel into Haro Strait. Currents pushed that boat along the sea floor to a depth of 240 feet. It took five weeks for deep-water dive teams to bring the Aleutian Isle to the surface.

That sinking is still under investigation by the U.S. Coast Guard.

In April, an empty tandem kayak was found bobbing in Henry Island’s Open Bay, according to the San Juan Islander. Two Canadian brothers had been paddling it on a day trip from Victoria to D'Arcy Island, the southernmost of Canada’s Gulf Islands. Their bodies were found 10 to 15 miles to the south of Henry Island, highlighting the hazards of Haro Strait to boats of all sizes.

RELATED: Washington’s border waters are on the cusp of a major rise in oil tanker traffic

Environmentalists and tribes on both sides of the watery border are concerned about the imminent increase in oil tanker traffic in Haro Strait and other transboundary waters expected to begin in May. The Trans Mountain Pipeline, after a multibillion-dollar expansion project, is now able to carry three times the crude oil it used to from Alberta to tankers docking near Vancouver, British Columbia.

Trouble off the Oregon Coast

In July 2021, the Chief Joseph was motoring south to California when it rammed into another fishing boat, the F/V Linda, about 15 miles out from Yaquina Bay, Oregon.

According to Coast Guard investigators, the Linda was adrift, with both crew members asleep but its sodium deck lights on, when the Chief Joseph hit it about 4 a.m.

“The Master of the CHIEF JOSEPH indicated that he stepped away from the operating station for a period to defecate, only to find upon his return, the starboard beam of the LINDA directly off the bow of his vessel with the risk of collision imminent,” Coast Guard investigators found.

The Linda’s hull was breached and the boat was taking on water. With the help of a pump provided by a Coast Guard response boat, the Linda made it back to port.

Coast Guard investigators said both captains violated regulations aimed at preventing collisions. They found the unnamed captain of the Chief Joseph negligent for “purposefully leaving the operating station of an underway vessel.”

The Linda’s insurance underwriter determined the boat was a total loss and sued Zidell for damages.

The parties reached an undisclosed settlement in June 2023.

Zidell did not respond to KUOW's requests for comment.

KUOW senior reporter John Ryan joined the station as its first full-time investigative reporter in 2009 and took on the environment beat in 2018. He focuses on climate change, energy, and the ecosystems of the Puget Sound region. He has also investigated toxic air pollution, landslides, failed cleanups, and money in politics for KUOW.

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• The Caribbean

9 Best Islands in the Caribbean to Retire

Beautiful weather, an affordable cost of living, and a relaxed vibe await retirees on these Caribbean islands.

Severine BAUR/Getty Images

When retirement approaches , many begin to consider where they want to spend their golden years. While some retirees are most comfortable in the familiar surroundings of their hometowns, others envision themselves in an idyllic location — one that might offer beaches, sunshine, delicious food, palm trees, and a laid-back atmosphere. Perhaps they fell in love with a place they visited, and, for many, that place might be one of the islands in the Caribbean .

For some retirees, the goal is to reduce their living expenses and live comfortably on a limited fixed income. Others, meanwhile, prioritize luxury and amenities, ideal weather, and beautiful scenery. Living costs, ease of obtaining residency, tax benefits, financial requirements, expat communities, residential developments, and lifestyles vary among the islands, so a solid amount of research should go into making this important decision.

So, before you go out and buy your “I Live Where You Vacation” T-shirt, an extended visit with input from locals and expats is highly recommended. The U.S. State Department also offers advice about what to consider before retiring abroad. With insight from experts on the subject, we’ve selected some of the best Caribbean islands for retirement.

Puerto Rico

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico offers many advantages for retirees seeking a tropical climate without relocating abroad.

Health care is widely available, and Medicare is accepted. Retirees can own property in Puerto Rico , too, with no restrictions or visas. For qualified retirees, the Individual Investors Act waives island and federal income taxes on dividends, interest, and capital gains for residents who live in Puerto Rico for at least half the year.

The cost of living is around 11 percent lower than on the mainland, and rents are about 53 percent less. In the major cities, like San Juan and Ponce, English is widely spoken, but it’s helpful to know at least some Spanish. The weather is warm , although humid at times, and hurricane season comes each year from June through November, peaking in August and September.

A number of established retiree communities, as well as assisted living facilities, are available. “Retirees will have no trouble settling into life in Puerto Rico,” according to an article by U.S. News & World Report . “The island is a retirement haven, home to big, active, and well-established retiree communities from the U.S. mainland. Most retirees settle around San Juan and the beach neighborhoods east of the city, though pockets of expats can be found around the island.”

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Amy Sparwasser/Getty Images

Located in the Caribbean about eight miles from the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres was once a fishing village. The atmosphere is still laid-back, and the cost of living is affordable. The small island offers beaches, clear and warm waters for snorkeling and diving, delicious restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Apartments, condos, and hotels are available, and rents and overall cost of living are relatively low. Most residents get around on motor bikes or golf carts, saving the expense of an automobile.

Retirees can apply for a temporary residency visa or permanent visa (after four years) at their local Mexican consulate, with financial qualifications. Those with legal residency can enroll in public health insurance for a small premium. Many purchase private insurance to cover medical expenses or pay out of pocket. Medicare is not accepted, though it is advisable for U.S. citizens to maintain coverage in the event they need to return to the U.S. for treatment.

U.S. Virgin Islands

cdwheatley/Getty Images

The main islands of St. Thomas , St. Croix , and St. John are attractive places to retire for those seeking mild weather, beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and access to restaurants and nightlife. As a U.S. territory, the U.S. Virgin Islands require no visas or passports for relocating. Medicare is accepted, and medical facilities are available on all the islands. The U.S. dollar is the currency, there’s no sales tax, and English is widely spoken.

The overall cost of living is higher than in the U.S., and rents are about six percent higher. A look at recent listings showed a wide range of rental costs, and like in most places, location, views, and amenities make a difference. Purchasing real estate on the islands works similarly to the mainland U.S., with attorneys representing both the buyer and seller. Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Margie Hand said, “When I was in the U.S. Virgin Islands this past June, I was shocked at all the people I met who had retired there. Some were working at stores in town, and one was an artist who sold pieces to local stores.”

Turks and Caicos

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Turks and Caicos is a British overseas territory consisting of eight main islands and more than 300 small ones. Average temperatures range from a high of 88 degrees Fahrenheit in July to 81 degrees Fahrenheit in January, and the climate is relatively dry . English is the official language, and the currency is the U.S. dollar. “These islands are some of my favorites in the Caribbean,” Hand told T+L. “However the cost of living may be high for some retirees.” In Providenciales, the most populous island that's also home to the international airport, monthly rents range from abut $1,500 to $3,660 in the city center. Condos, town houses, residences, and vacant land are available to purchase at a range of prices, plus there are no restrictions on property ownership by foreigners.

The government grants temporary residency permits with annual applications and offers investors permanent residency if they purchase property to use as a home. The investment must be $300,000 or $1 million, depending on the island, and the funds can be used for new construction or renovation of an older property. There are no taxes on real estate, income, inheritance, or estates. And the new Health City Medical Centre on Grand Cayman provides a range of high-quality, affordable health care,

On Anguilla , the northernmost of the Leeward Islands, the lifestyle is casual, and fishing, snorkeling, golf, tennis, and sailing are popular activities for visitors and residents. The cost of living here is on the high side, but apartments are available starting between $1,000 and $2,000 monthly. However, there are no income taxes, VAT taxes, or taxes on capital gains or inheritance.

Steve Haines, a longtime resident of Anguilla and a real estate broker at Trophy Properties , represents Four Seasons Anguilla Residences. He told T+L, “Some of the greatest things about the island are the wonderful people, perfect weather, and unbelievable food.” He added, “I’m seeing retirees who buy residences for year-round [living], as well as others who spend half the year here. It’s a combination of both.” Haines also noted that the island’s new airport — in progress — will make it easier to reach the destination in the future — perfect for visitors and residents.

Retirees are able to purchase property with an Alien Landholders license and additional fees. Those who own property are able to obtain permanent residency. With one hospital on the island, residents may need to travel to nearby St. Maarten for medical care or to one of the other islands — something to consider when retirement planning. Private insurance that includes transportation to the U.S. or a nearby large city is advisable.

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Dominica , nicknamed the “Nature Island,” is considered one of the most affordable Caribbean islands for retirees. There's an income tax based on residency status and income sources, but the destination offers tax incentives for retirees, including a reduced rate for those over age 65. “Navigating the landscape of Dominica taxes can be a crucial factor for individuals and businesses considering the island nation as a destination for investment and residency,” according to a recent article by Rihab Saad , managing director at Next Generation Equity.

For retirees who decide to make Dominica their permanent home, the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program enables foreigners to establish permanent residency by making an investment of at least $100,000 in a government fund or real estate.

Both public and private health care services are available, and private insurance is recommended. Haines, who often spends time with friends who live in Dominica, said, “The island reminds me of Hawaii — very lush with fruit trees and gorgeous scenery. [It's a] beautiful place to live.”

Dominican Republic

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Located on the island of Hispaniola (along with Haiti), the Dominican Republic is one of the most affordable islands in the Caribbean for retirement. The cost of living here is about 47 percent lower than in the U.S., and rents are about 75 percent lower. The tropical climate, convenient location (it's about two hours from Miami), outdoor activities, and entertainment at resorts and hotels also make the destination an attractive option for retirees. Most expats and retirees live in Santo Domingo, Santiago, or Punta Cana.

The Dominican Republic offers a retirement visa for long-term residency with modest financial requirements, and those who decide to spend their golden years here can start with a standard tourist visa while the retirement visa is in process. Social security and pension benefits are not taxable, but all residents must pay taxes on income from financial investments such as stocks and bonds, certificates of deposit, and more.

According to a September 2023 article by Ashley Kilroy, an investment and insurance expert at SmartAsset, “Expats will need to purchase private health care insurance. Although this is an additional expense, it costs less to see a doctor and receive treatment in a private hospital in the Dominican Republic than in the U.S. International health insurance may cost up to $200 per month, and it covers most procedures and emergencies, and even some prescriptions.”

This small island in the southern Caribbean offers a stable political climate, warm weather, and a location outside the hurricane belt. Resorts, museums, shops, and towns provide plenty of activities and entertainment. While the overall cost of living in Aruba is slightly higher than in the U.S., rents are about 57 percent lower. There's an income tax, and retirees are eligible for exemptions on foreign pensions and annuities.

Quality health care — both public and private — is available, too. Foreign tourists can stay in Aruba for up to 90 days (180 days for citizens of the U.S. and the Netherlands). To stay longer, an application must be made to the Department of Immigration and Naturalization Services for a residence permit. A guaranteed annual income of at least $50,000 may qualify applicants age 55 and over for the status of “retired with guaranteed income.” According to luxury Caribbean property specialist 7th Heaven Properties , “The Government of Aruba welcomes foreign investment and there are no restrictions on foreign buyers buying property on the island with a view to moving to Aruba.”

Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, Belize

Located on Central America’s northeastern coast, just south of Mexico, Belize (formerly called British Honduras) consists of a mainland area and about 450 islands. Two of the islands (called cays) are popular retirement destinations: Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Both are a short flight or boat trip from the mainland. On a trip to Ambergris Caye a few years ago, I met retirees from the U.S. and Europe, happily adapting to the slower pace of life, living without cars (just about everyone drives a golf cart), and spending less than they did at home.

Belize correspondent for International Living, Shane Kenny, who moved his family to the country in 2019, noted in a recent article , “With Ambergris Caye being such a hot tourist destination, it’s also one of the more expensive places to live in Belize.” Of Caye Caulker , about a 30-minute ferry ride from Ambergris Caye, Kenny said, “Many consider Caye Caulker to be the laid-back, smaller version of Ambergris Caye. Be prepared to walk everywhere, as the streets are unpaved and there are no cars on the island — just a few golf carts.”

The government of Belize explains how to acquire residency or retirement status through the Visitor's Permit Extension, Qualified Retired Person Program, and permanent residency. Also making Belize an attractive retirement spot, the official language is English and the currency is U.S. dollars along with Belizean dollars.

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Captain Andy was a joy to sell with. I had 2 children with me and he was very accommodating and the children loved him. I was not doing too good with the deep sea so he was very Accommodating and whipped us into the intercoastal Where we sailed up the inner coastal and fished with the children it was wonderful. Definitely a 10 out of a 10!!

May 18, 2024

It was really fun to watch your grandkids catch fish :) Thanks for your feedback Capt Andy

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