Grand Tour

The Garmen Plot below represents our May 2023 Salish Sea Expedition.

Here are some recommended routes for a multi-day boating trip in the Salish Sea:

San Juan Islands: This archipelago is located between Washington State and Vancouver Island and offers a variety of destinations, including Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor. You can spend several days exploring the islands and their many attractions, including hiking, kayaking, and whale watching1.
Salish Sea Expedition: This 5-day expedition cruise takes you to remote, natural, and historic islands that are off the ferry routes and that most people never get a chance to see. You’ll learn about the history and ecology of the area while enjoying a variety of activities, including kayaking and hiking2.
Victoria: You can take a high-speed catamaran from Seattle to Victoria and enjoy a scenic cruise through the Salish Sea. Once in Victoria, you can spend several days exploring the city and its many attractions, including the Butchart Gardens and the Royal BC Museum3.
Desolation Sound: This destination is located in British Columbia and offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. You can spend several days exploring the area and its many attractions, including the Copeland Islands Marine Park and the Toba Inlet4.
Gulf Islands: These islands are located in British Columbia and offer a variety of destinations, including Galiano Island, Mayne Island, and Saturna Island. You can spend several days exploring the islands and their many attractions, including hiking, kayaking, and whale watching4.

To plan your multi-day boating trip, you can use the resources provided by boating vacation guides, such as Ahoy BC, and consult with local marinas and ports for information on routes and destinations4.

Bellingham is a great place for boaters to visit, even if they are not chartering a boat. The Bellingham Yacht Club at 2625 Harbor Loop, provides a variety of activities and events for members, including regional, national, and international regattas, cruises around Puget Sound, Canada, and Alaska, and numerous social events1. In addition, Bellingham Bay offers a variety of attractions for boaters, including, the Port of Entry at 4241 Mitchell Way, views, protected anchorages, and access to nearby islands2.

The Bellingham Cruise Terminal, located in Bellingham’s Historic Fairhaven District, is the southern starting point for the Alaska Marine Highway System1. Passengers traveling without vehicles must check in 2 hours prior to departure in Bellingham2 3. Bellingham is conveniently located an hour-and-a-half drive from Seattle, Washington, and one hour from Vancouver, British Columbia4.

The Bellingham Yacht Club provides reciprocal moorage for many yacht clubs including the Grand 14 yacht clubs. It’s Club house is adjacent to San Juan Charters where we took charge of M/V Seahome.

Bungees of the Grand 14 Yacht Clubs. These clubs work to keep boating safe, affordable, and attractive. They encouraged the establishment of Sucia Island Washington Marine State Park. Sucia is a short distance from Bellingham Yacht Club.

The Grand 14 Yacht Clubs are a group of yacht clubs located in the Puget Sound area of Washington State. Below are the 7 main stations on the Salish Sea:

Bremerton Yacht Club: Located in Bremerton, Washington,
Day Island Yacht Club: Located in Tacoma, Washington,
Edmonds Yacht Club: Located in Edmonds, Washington, the Edmonds Yacht Club
Everett Yacht Club: Located in Everett, Washington, the Everett Yacht Club offer
Gig Harbor Yacht Club: Located in Gig Harbor, Washington
Olympia Yacht Club: Located in Olympia, Washington, the Olympia Yacht Club is at the State Capital and is the start of the Alaska Inside Passage
Port Madison Yacht Club: Located on Bainbridge Island, Washington

The Grand 14 Yacht Clubs with Salish Sea main stations are good places to visit for recreational boaters, as they offer a variety of amenities and activities, including guest moorage, clubhouses, and social events to reciprocating clubs around the world. They are also close to marinas that provide transient moorage for all boaters.

From Bellingham, we cruise the Grand Banks 42’ past Sucia island. Which is the horse shoe shaped island at the top of the course plotted above. On our return we spend a night here.

We spot MacGregor 26x vessels at the new docks at Fossil Bay Sucia Island. These floats are for shallow draft vessels. The old deep draft docks will be renovated soon.

Allen, while a member of the International Yacht Club, helped establish the shelter at Fossil Bay Sucia Island.

It is important to note that Salish Sea destinations on our Grand Tour would not be worth visiting if not for the coordinated efforts of Salish Sea Yacht Clubs but the destinations are not exclusively for members. Accommodations for unaffiliated vessels are available. only4.

Kayakers share the beach at Shallow Bay Sucia Island where we register for our moorage ball.

Groups reserve this campsite at Sucia Island.

Henry Island near Roche Harbor

Henry Island has a Seattle Yacht Club Outstation that is convenient for visiting Roach Harbor. It is visited by private member boats and sea planes. It provides laundries and has a pickle ball court.

Seattle Yacht Club outstation on Henry Island is 23 acres and handles 60 boats during peak season.

Pickle Ball was invented in the Pacific Northwest

Pickle Ball equipment. This has become a very popular game.

Hotel De Haro at Roach Harbor is to the right in this photo.

Roche Harbor is a short dinghy ride from Henry Island and is a good place to visit because:

It is a picturesque harbor located on San Juan Island in Washington state, USA1 2.
It offers moorage and amenities for boaters, including three waterfront restaurants, a general store, and a fuel dock1 2. You do not need to be a yacht club member visit Roach Harbor. The 60 boat Grand Banks rendezvous was held here in 2023.
It is home to Roche Harbor Resort, which offers lodging, dining, and event venues1.
It is a popular destination for weddings, with several ceremony and reception venues available1.
It is known for its Colors Ceremony, which takes place every evening during the summer and includes a flag-lowering ceremony, national anthem performances, and a cannon salute3 4.
It is home to a 19-acre outdoor sculpture park, which features over 120 unique sculptures by Northwest artists5.

Seattle Yacht Club Outstations are a network of 10 private club-owned properties dispersed on the waters of Western Washington and British Columbia, which offer amenities to members who cruise to these destinations1. Member boats and sea planes can visit these outstations. The Seattle Yacht Club provides pump-out stations at some of its outstations, but not all of them. Some of the Seattle Yacht Club Outstations provide laundry facilities, but not all of them.

Ganges

Ganges is a harbor located on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is a popular destination for recreational boaters because:

Ganges Harbor is a tranquil waterway that is close to the charming seaside hamlet of Ganges, which offers several marinas, shops, and restaurants along the shore1 2.
Ganges Harbor was voted as the top boating destination in British Columbia by boaters in 20172.
Ganges Harbor offers a variety of boat tours and cruises, including sunset dinner cruises and informative boat tours3.
Salt Spring Island, where Ganges Harbor is located, is one of the Gulf Islands in British Columbia and is known for its natural beauty, artisanal food, and vibrant arts scene4.

It is important to note that British Columbia has many great boating destinations, and visitors should check with local tourism websites or boating associations for information about other popular boating destinations in the area5.

Ganges Marina. The Seattle Yacht Club leases 600 feet of moorage on dock C for members here.

Ganges, British Columbia offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. It is the shopping center for the entire Gulf Islands. Groceries, hardware and liquor stores are within walking distance from Ganges Marina. Some of the top attractions and things to do in Ganges include:

Salt Spring Island’s Saturday Market: This market is held every Saturday from April to October and features local artisans, farmers, and food vendors1 2 3.
Ganges Inner Harbour: This harbor is a popular destination for boaters and offers a variety of water sports and activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing1 2 4.
Salt Spring Visitor Information Centre: This center provides information about the island’s attractions, events, and activities1 2.
Jill Louise Campbell Fine Art Gallery: This gallery features the work of local artist Jill Louise Campbell and is located in the heart of Ganges4.
Saltspring Marina and Ganges Marina: These marinas offer moorage and amenities for boaters3.
Salt Spring Island Golf Club: This golf club is located in the heart of Ganges and offers a challenging 18-hole course with stunning views of the island3.

We spotted this Macgregor 26M at Ganges. The local owner explained changes from the pandemic. The fish market no longer is in operation.

It is important to note that Ganges is also known for its natural beauty, artisanal food, and vibrant arts scene, and visitors should take the time to explore the island’s many hiking trails, farms, and galleries3 5.

The Seattle Yacht Club as well as other clubs rent docks at Ganges for their outstations. We chose a side tie with a view of the harbor and seaplanes.

The Seattle Yacht Club also has several other outstations, including:

Friday Harbor: Located in the San Juan Islands, this outstation offers moorage, laundry facilities, and a pump-out station2.
Eagle Harbor: Located on Bainbridge Island, this outstation offers moorage and is close to the Seattle Yacht Club’s main station in Portage Bay2.
Cortez Bay: this outstation offers moorage and is close to Desolation Sound.
Port Madison: Located on Bainbridge Island, this outstation offers moorage, laundry facilities, and a pump-out station2.

It is important to note that the outstations of the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club and the Seattle Yacht Club are located in different regions, with the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club outstations located in British Columbia and the Seattle Yacht Club outstations located in Western Washington and British Columbia. However, there may be some overlap in the areas they serve, as evidenced by the invitation from the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club and Seattle Yacht Club to cruise to each other’s outstations4 5.

All 10 outstations for the Seattle Yacht Club are in the Salish Sea. The main station (pictured here) is located in the heart of Seattle across from the University of Washington. A subway connects the yacht club to downtown. This photo was taken prior to the 2023 exterior renovation.

Ladysmith Ovens Island

Ladysmith has a Museum with fun looking pirates. We found a Macgregor 19 at Ladysmith.

Ovens Island is a small island located in the Strait of Georgia, between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia, Canada. It is the most easterly of the Dunsmuir Islands in Sibell Bay.

Oven’s Island is one of SYC outstations. No fires allowed and no bathrooms, electricity or water. Tables and a path to nesting eagles. This island is exclusive to members. Nice View of Ladysmith on other side of island.

Ladysmith is a town located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is a destination for recreational boaters because:

Ladysmith’s 5-mile harbor provides excellent boating access to the Gulf Islands1.
The town has a lively and picturesque harbor that includes private marinas, a federal dock, the Ladysmith Yacht Club, a Harbour Heritage Centre, and many restaurants and shops2.
Ladysmith is home to one of the friendliest marinas on Vancouver Island, which is located in Ladysmith Harbor and is the first marina on your port side as you enter the harbor3.
There is a municipal boat launch in the center of Ladysmith, which is the place to begin exploring the 5-mile length of Ladysmith Harbor4.
Ladysmith is located on Vancouver Island, which is famous for its varied landscapes and is an ideal center for exploring the Gulf Islands to the south or Desolation Sound to the north4.
Telegraph Harbor on Thetis Island is within dinghy range.
Chemainus is within dingy range.

The bcdive.com boat was found without her outboard engine at the exclusive moorage for SYC at Oven’s Island. We learned that SYC allows Ladysmith locals to tie to the docks during the off season.

Ladysmith is located close to Ovens Island, which is currently owned by the Seattle Yacht Club. It is the only island completely owned by SYC. The 49th parallel of latitude is here. During the off season, locals including the adjoining First Nations Band are allowed to use the Ovens Island docks.

Built in 1962 for the British Columbia (BC) Forest Service to be part of their Hecate Strait survey and patrol fleet, the 66 foot Hecate Ranger was rebuilt in Port Townsend in 2017. It was great to see her at Ladysmith.

Some of the events and festivals at Ladysmith include:

Ladysmith Heritage Boat Festival: This festival features over 20 heritage vessels from the Pacific Northwest and beyond and is held annually at the Ladysmith Community Marina1.
Ladysmith Maritime Festival: This festival is held annually at the Ladysmith Community Marina and features a variety of activities, including live music, food vendors, and a boat parade2.
Festival of Lights: This is a winter celebration held annually in Ladysmith, which features a lighted parade, fireworks, and a Christmas market3.
Ladysmith Days: This is a summer celebration held annually in Ladysmith, which features a parade, live music, and a variety of family-oriented activities3.

Heritage vessels can be found by dingy exploration.

It is important to note that the dates and details of these events may vary from year to year, and visitors should check with the event organizers or the Ladysmith tourism website for specific information about each event3.

Greeted with music from the brown ketch. Carlos Santana.

Dingy storage at Ladysmith Harbour. Some of these tenders haven’t been used for half a year or more.

Ketch waiting for attention in the protected waters of Ladysmith Harbor.

Garden Bay, Pender Harbour

Garden Bay has both a Royal Vancouver Yacht Club and a Seattle Yacht Club. The bay is part of Pender Harbour.

The Royal Vancouver Yacht Club has several outstations, including:

Coal Harbour: Located in Vancouver, British Columbia, this outstation offers moorage and amenities for members1.
Garden Bay: Located in Pender Harbour, British Columbia, this outstation offers moorage and amenities for members1.
Secret Cove: Located in Halfmoon Bay, British Columbia, this outstation offers moorage and amenities for members1.
Silva Bay: Located on Gabriola Island, British Columbia, this outstation offers moorage and amenities for members1.

Murrelet 2023 Opening Day of Boating Season with RVYC in Seattle.

The Seattle Yacht Club also has several outstations, including:

Friday Harbor: Located in the San Juan Islands, this outstation offers moorage, laundry facilities, and a pump-out station2.
Eagle Harbor: Located on Bainbridge Island, this outstation offers moorage and is close to the Seattle Yacht Club’s mainstation in Portage Bay2.
Garden Bay: Located in the heart of BC’s Sunshine Coast in Pender Harbour, offering moorage, fresh water, showers, laundry, ice, barbecues and garbage removal.
Port Madison: Located on Bainbridge Island, this outstation offers moorage, laundry facilities, and a pump-out station2.

It is important to note that the outstations of the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club and the Seattle Yacht Club are located in different regions, with the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club outstations located in British Columbia and the Seattle Yacht Club outstations located in Western Washington and British Columbia. However, there are some overlap in the areas they serve, as evidenced by the invitation from the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club and Seattle Yacht Club to cruise to each other’s outstations4 5.

Painting at SYC Garden Bay outstation depicting Opening Day of Boating Season at Seattle’s Montlake Cut. SYC and RYC as well as many clubs participate in this event held in May.

Royal Vancouver Yacht Club outstation at Garden Bay. SYC members are allowed to use the dingy dock but must anchor out or use the nearby SYC outstation docks.

RVYC members have been unable to encourage the owner of the Garden Bay bar and restaurant to reopen after a fire. It is next door to their outstation. The seasonal business had been known for its musical gatherings. The owner is an out of country speculator who wants to zone residential.

The destruction of the Garden Bay Bar and Restaurant near the RVYC outstation was caused by a fire that broke out on November 26, 20201 2. The Pender Harbour Fire Department responded to the fire, but the building was destroyed. Arson was not involved. The seasonal restaurant was a landmark in the area, having opened in 1932 and being known for its blues music2. There are not any plans to rebuild the restaurant and the out of country owner seeks to change the zoning from commercial to residential. Locals object. Pender Harbour is home to a population of under 3,000, with over 40% of the property owners being non-resident.

SYC Garden Bay Outstation from morning sun room. There is a covered patio adjacent. The Pender Harbour government docks are a 10 minute dingy ride to the left. The RVYC outstation is a 5 minute ride to the right.

Pender Harbour is located on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, Canada. The trip from Pender Harbour to Vancouver is approximately 2.5 hours by car and ferry2 5. It is known for:

Being a boater’s paradise with first-class marinas, accommodations, and restaurants1.
Offering a variety of water activities, including sea kayaking, canoeing, boating, sailing, SUP, and fishing2.
Having several parks nearby, including Francis Point Provincial Park and Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park3. A scenic hiking trail leads to the Skookumchuck Narrows, where visitors can watch the powerful tidal rapids2.
Being a popular destination for tourists due to its impressive selection of attractions and experiences4.
Offering a variety of attractions and things to do, including tours, guides, outfitters, entertainment, and historic sites5. SloCat Harbour Tours provides a popular historical and heritage tour that takes visitors on a scenic boat ride through the area4.

The Harbor tour will take you to gunboat bay and Garden Bay. The name Pender Harbour also refers collectively to the surrounding unincorporated communities of Madeira Park , Kleindale , Irvines Landing , and Garden Bay , within the Sunshine Coast Regional District

Garden Bay Provincial Park is an extensive grouping of acreage that touches Garden Bay near the SYC Outstation.

SYC has a Port Townsend sailing dinghy which I rowed to the provincial park next to its Garden Bay outstation.

Garden Bay Provincial Park is near Indian reservation property. This design was on an otherwise unadorned longhouse near the dinghy dock.

It is a mile and a half from the dinghy dock to the Garden Bay Lake trail which has benches for resting and watching turtles. In May of 2023, locals were already swimming in the lake which provides excellent drinking water to Pender Harbour residents.

SYC adorns each outstation with artwork similar to that on the garden bay long house. This kind of art represents a north west coast family gathering place.

May Day in Canada is a public holiday that falls on the Monday preceding May 25th, which is celebrated as Victoria Day to mark the birthday of Queen Victoria1. The importance of the King of England and the royal family to Canadians is a matter of debate. While some Canadians view the monarchy as an important symbol of the country’s history and traditions, others see it as an outdated institution that has little relevance to modern Canadian society2 3 4 5.

Members of the royal family have been present in Canada since the late 18th century5. But today indigenous culture is more prominent. There were indigenous dignitaries, not British ones at the Pender Harbour May Day. This photo from the RVYC main station was taken in May of 2023.

The government dock is at Madeira Park. In years past the May Day celebration included a boat parade with boats gathering at the RVYC and here. There wasn’t a boat parade in 2023. There was an airplane fly over.

Longboard Hockey was invented in Vancouver a decade ago. When played with a ball, the ball cannot be lifted off the ground. When played with a beer can, helmets are worn and the can (called a puck) is launched frequently. Observing this was several hours well spent on May Day Pender Harbour.

View from the beer garden. The country western band near the garden halted for an Indian band song and drum greeting. Country Western music has become a British Columbia feature at many events in recent years.

The Band

I rigged the Port Townsend Dingy for sail back to the May Day celebration hoping to see the skateboard (longboard) speed competition. Missed it.

Leaving Pender Harbour

Cortez Bay Desolation Sound

Cortez Bay gateway to Desolation Sound Marine Park

Cortes Island’s protected harbours have been providing safe shelter for hundreds of years.

Both Cortes Bay and the Gorge Harbour are surrounded on all sides by land except for a narrow entrance to the open sea. Two yacht clubs – the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club and the Seattle Yacht Club – have established outstations in Cortes Bay to provide moorage to their private members.

Boats enter Cortes Bay through a short channel, passing south of the marker beacon which marks a drying reef. The bay is well-protected and provides a fine refuge if the weather kicks-up on the Straits. A hiking trail leads from the outstation to the top of the bluff.

In addition, a public moorage is available in Cortes Bay.
/https://ourcortes.com/activities/cortes-bay-outstations/

Government Dock at Cortez Bay provides public moorage.

Float Plane dock at SYC Cortez Bay Outstation.

Good Oyster Fishing just outside of Oyster Bay. We quickly hit our daily limit.

We found Cortez Bay clean. The bay was open for shell fishing when we visited in May. Owing to boating and other visitors the bay closes in June.

Desolation Sound Marine Park is a popular destination for boaters due to its stunning natural beauty and accessible wilderness cruising1 2 3. Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities, including kayaking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing1 3 4. The park is located approximately 20 nautical miles from Cortes Bay2.Refuge Cove is a popular place to provision for Desolation Sound due to its location and amenities5. The cove offers a general store, a post office, a laundromat, and a restaurant5. However, there are several other places to provision in the area, including Cortes Bay and Squirrel Cove5.

Raven from Queen City Yacht Club Seattle in the Wilderness of Desolation Sound Marine Park

Sydney

Sydney, located on the Saanich Peninsula in British Columbia, Canada, is a great Salish Sea destination. Here is some information about the Sydney Marina and its proximity to attractions:

Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea: The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea is a popular attraction in Sidney, featuring 28 aquarium habitats teeming with marine life from anemones to octopuses1 2 3.
Sidney Waterfront: The Sidney Waterfront is a beautiful area that offers visitors a variety of activities, including shopping, dining, and sightseeing1.
Sydney Marina: The Sydney Marina is a full-service marina that offers 1,000 feet of guest moorage, laundry, fuel, and pump-out services4.
Proximity to Attractions: The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea is located on the Sidney waterfront, which is within walking distance of the Sydney Marina1 5.
Local Attractions: There are several local attractions near the Sidney Marina, such as the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, the BC Aviation Museum, and the Sidney Pier5 6.

Overall, Sydney is a great Salish Sea destination, offering a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. The Sydney Marina is conveniently located near the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea and other attractions, making it a great place to stay for boaters and non-boaters alike.

The Sidney waterfront is a beautiful area that offers visitors a variety of activities, including shopping, dining, and sightseeing2.

Royal Vancouver Yacht Club boat at Sydney Harbour

Friday Harbor

Friday Harbor is a historic community located on San Juan Island in far northwest Washington State1. It is a popular destination for boaters due to its three marinas, which offer easy access to supplies and services, including food markets, restaurants, and boat rentals2 3.

The Seattle Yacht Club has an outstation in Friday Harbor, which is located at 273 Front Street4 5. The Seattle Yacht Club Outstation offers a variety of amenities, including a clubhouse, showers, and laundry facilities6.

Workshop and Game Room structures at SYC Friday Harbor Outstation.

Possibly the best feature of the SYC Friday Harbor Outstation are the pump out taps on each finger pier. This makes the chore convenient and easy. No discharge of untreated sewage is allowed into the Salish Sea at all anymore. The city of Victoria stopped doing so in 2020. Now boaters have no legitimate argument for not visiting marinas for pump-out or calling for a fee-for-service pump-out boat.

Before returning our Grand Banks 42’ charter, we took advantage of the pump out tap at our slip at the OYC Friday Harbor Outstation.

In addition to boating, Friday Harbor offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors, including hiking, biking, whale watching, kayaking, and shopping1. Some of the top-rated things to do in Friday Harbor include visiting the Whale Museum, exploring Lime Kiln Point State Park, and taking a scenic flight over the San Juan Islands1. You can also prawn, crab and fish for salmon.

Gary and Judy Ball from Olympia Yacht Club return from prawn fishing on first day of the season. They are also members of Seattle Yacht Club.

Spencer Spit

Spencer Spit State Park is a popular spot for Salish Sea boaters, offering excellent crabbing, clamming, and car-top boating1. Here is some information about Spencer Spit State Park:

History: Spencer Spit was named after William Henry Spencer, who homesteaded the area in the late 1800s2.
Park Passes: Park passes can be purchased online or at the park entrance1.
Campsites: Spencer Spit State Park offers 37 standard campsites, 3 hiker/biker campsites, and 11 moorage buoys1.
Getting There by Auto from Seattle: To get to Spencer Spit State Park from Seattle by auto, you can take the ferry from Anacortes to Lopez Island, and then drive to the park1.
Sea Scouts: Spencer Spit State Park is a popular place for Sea Scouts, offering a variety of activities and opportunities for learning and exploration3.

11 moorage balls at Spenser Spit State Park. Watch the death on the south side of the spit.

Overall, Spencer Spit State Park is a beautiful and popular destination for Salish Sea boaters, offering a variety of activities and amenities in a stunning natural setting.

We chose a ball with depth on the north side of the spit.

Deck BBQs are loved by boaters. You are expected to share shore BBQs when they are available as this reduces the cost of fire insurance for the facility.

Modern day homesteaders on Lopez island are friendly. They wave at passers by. It is a tradition. One explained that the shelter on the spit was not for registering boats. Rangers do that now at the entrance for car campers – quite a distance from this shelter.

Coast Salish People frequent all of the Washington State Parks – especially during their popular Canoe Journeys which are becoming an annual event.

Lagoon at Spenser Spit. At the far end, Kayaks are rented during the summer season.

The channel behind the dingy is deep but narrow. San Juan Yacht Charters restricts operations here. We found sea stars in the rock wall crevices. A sea star waisting disease almost killed the population of the Salish Sea stars.

To protect wildlife, dogs must be leashed when on Spencer Spit. This rule applies at all Washington Park beaches. My new friend – pictured here – was very interested in boarding our dinghy headed to shore.

You are not required to purchase a mooring ball. Many Anchor near the Spit as has this Nordic Tug.

Give Coast Gard vessels a wide birth. We never figured out what they were doing at Spenser Spit. Because the charts for the area are reprinted from decades old data, our best guess was they we’re gathering soundings. The vessel never anchored.

M/V Seahome’s owner requires operators to stow the dinghy on deck, rather than tow. The dinghy shown here has a chart plotter, depth sounder and anchor and was perfect for exploring the Lopez Island shore. We board from the swimming platform.

San Juan Charters pays for Park moorage of M/V Seahome through an annual Washington State Park Pass. This means operators need not be concerned about fines for not paying at the Parks and it encourages the use of mooring balls rather than anchoring.

We launched the dinghy with enough fuel to circumnavigate Lopez Island.

Microsoft founder Paul Allen’s property is on Lopez Island, specifically on the Sperry Peninsula, which he purchased in 1996 for $8 million1 2. The property is 387 acres and includes a series of custom-designed homes, huge gyms and swimming pools, libraries, and music studios3. The purchase of the property displaced Camp Nor’wester, a popular kids camp, which upset many on and off the Island2. To mitigate, structures from the camp were moved to another location.

According to an article in The Spokesman-Review from 1996, Allen was coming under fire for buying a pristine peninsula in the San Juan Islands and making plans to close the summer youth camp4.Overall, Paul Allen’s property on Lopez Island is a large and luxurious estate that has had some controversy surrounding its development. You can see it by boat. A gate prevents autos from seeing the property by auto. Paul Allen passed away several years ago and we think his sister, who owns the Seattle Sea Hawks football team, uses it as a secure athletic retreat for players and their families.

Our moorage on the deeper north side of Spenser Spit was subject to ferry boat wakes. The ferries do not operate at night.

Elliot Bay Blake Island

The Seattle Aquarium is an attraction for Elliot Bay.

Elliot Bay is a favorite for Salish Sea boaters due to its central location in Seattle, stunning views of the city skyline and the Olympic Mountains, and easy access to a variety of amenities and attractions. Here is some information about Elliot Bay and its surrounding areas:

Blake Island State Marine Park has been open almost exclusively to private boaters since the pandemic. The State seeks a vendor for providing ferry service and use of the park long house

Long house owned by Washington State Parks.

Sculpture Park. Echo Man behind Hemp Fest entrance in this photo.

Yacht Club Stations: The Seattle Yacht Club has an Elliott Bay Station, which offers a variety of amenities, including a clubhouse, showers, and laundry facilities1.
Elliot Bay Marina: Elliot Bay Marina is a private marina located in Seattle, Washington, offering 1,200 slips available for moorage ranging in size from 32 to 63 feet2.
Blake Island Marine Park: Blake Island Marine Park is a popular destination for boaters, offering camping, hiking, and beachcombing opportunities3.
Public Marina: Seattle has a public marina at Elliot Bay, which offers 1,200 feet of guest moorage, fuel, and pump-out services4.
Sculpture Garden: The Olympic Sculpture Park is located on the waterfront in Elliot Bay, featuring a variety of sculptures and art installations3.
Public Market: Pike Place Market is located in downtown Seattle, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions3.
Seattle’s Name: Seattle was named after Chief Seattle, a Duwamish Indian leader who lived in the area in the mid-1800s3.

Chief Seattle. This painting is on exhibit at the Berk Museum on the University of Washington campus.

Overall, Elliot Bay is a popular destination for Salish Sea boaters, offering a variety of amenities and attractions in a beautiful natural setting.

Boaters will be interested in Seattle’s history involving the 1849 Gold rush. The Portland is pictured here. A sunken side wheeler with gold is being salvaged in 2023.

The Klondike Gold Rush Museum in Seattle is a national park, specifically the Seattle Unit of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park1 2. Here is some information about the museum:

The museum covers Seattle’s involvement in the 1890s Klondike gold rush and related local history1.
The museum is free to visit and shares stories of remarkable adventures that would forever change the city’s people, culture, and history3.
The National Park Service and the Seattle Visitor Center administer the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park4.
The museum is located in Pioneer Square in the historic Cadillac Hotel building5.
The museum is open year-round, and roughly 65,000 visitors find their way to the museum each year6.

Overall, the Klondike Gold Rush Museum in Seattle is a national park that offers a free historical museum experience covering Seattle’s involvement in the Klondike gold rush and related local history.

Seattle is almost done with development of its Eliot Bay Waterfront. This photo shows the view from the public market, over waterfront construction to the Clipper Race parade.

The Cascade Marine Trail involves beach landings near facilities. This sign posted on Blake Island.

View of the beach on the west side of Blake Island.

Approaching Blake Island Marine Park public docks

The Seattle Aquarium on Elliot Bay is free on the first Thursday of each month.

Poster for Classic Boat Show at Bell Harbor in Elliot Bay

Our friends boat at the Classic Boat show held at Bell Harbor Elliot Bay

Bell Harbor on Elliot Bay is a popular spot for transit boaters. It is easy to visit Pike Place Market, Seattle Aquarium, Seattle Art Museum, the sports stadiums, and catch rides to Blake Island and Alki Beach from this public marina. Reservations are recommended. Boat shows are held here.

The Elliot Bay Waterfront near Bell Harbor has Canadian and USA navy and Coast Guard vessels available for public viewing during the summer Seafair festival.

Seafair is an annual summer festival in Seattle that offers a wide range of exciting experiences for visitors of all ages. Here is some information about Seafair and its events that involve the Salish Sea:

Seafair Weekend Festival: Seafair Weekend Festival is one of the largest boating events, airshows, and festivals in the Pacific Northwest. It takes place in Seattle and offers a variety of activities, including hydroplane racing, live music, and a parade of boats1 2.
Parade of Ships: The celebration starts with the Parade of Ships through Elliot Bay, which is a part of Seafair. The public is invited to meet the sailors and tour the ships3.
Boeing Seafair Airshow: The Boeing Seafair Air Show is another popular event that takes place during Seafair. It offers enthusiasts an opportunity to witness spectacular aerial maneuvers executed by a diverse range of aircraft4.
Docking of Ships: the Canadian and USA Navies dock their ships for public viewing during Seafair on the Eliot Bay waterfront.
The Seafair Pirates land their craft at Alki Beach in Elliot Bay.

Elliot Bay Alki Beach SeaFair Pirates landing is the unofficial start of the Seattle Seafair Festival

Overall, Seafair is a popular summer festival in Seattle that offers a variety of events and activities, including hydroplane racing, live music, a parade of boats, and an airshow. Some of these events involve the Salish Sea, such as the Parade of Ships.

Gig Harbor

Gig Harbor is a city located in Pierce County, Washington, United States. It is a popular destination in the Salish Sea due to its beautiful scenery, historic downtown, and variety of activities and events.The Gig Harbor Yacht Club has station in Gig Harbor, which offers a variety of amenities, including a clubhouse, showers, and laundry facilities1.

The Fox Island Yacht Club also hosts events in Gig Harbor, including the 2023 Summer Music Festival2.

Several sailboat races start from Gig Harbor, including the Bill Harter Series Races3.

The Southern Sound Series Islands Race starts at Gig Harbor.

Gig Harbor is also known for its summer music concert series, which includes the 2022 Summer Concert Series and the Summer Sounds Concert Series4 5 6

Concerts fill the Public Docks with music fans.

Activities in Gig Harbor include:

Boating: Gig Harbor is a popular destination for boaters due to its calm waters and beautiful scenery1.
Fishing: Visitors to Gig Harbor can enjoy a variety of fishing opportunities, including salmon, halibut, and crab1.
Hiking: There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Cushman Trail and the Harborview Drive Trail1.
Shopping and Dining: Gig Harbor is home to several shops and restaurants, including the popular Tides Tavern1.
Festivals and Events: Gig Harbor hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Summer Concert Series, the Maritime Gig Festival, and the Gig Harbor Wine & Food Festival4 5.

Overall, Gig Harbor is a great destination for boaters and non-boaters alike, offering a variety of activities and events in a beautiful natural setting.

The SYC has docks, a fire pit, and showers across from the concert stage at Gig Harbor.

To get to Gig Harbor from Seattle by car, cross the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.

Gig Harbor is a city located in Pierce County, Washington, United States. It is a natural landlocked bay with a sandpit reaching out from the east side that leaves for entrance to the narrows a channel only 300 feet wide1. Here is a brief history of Gig Harbor and its significance in the Salish Sea:

In 1867, three white fishermen entered the harbor and decided to make it their home. Over the next few decades, Gig Harbor grew into a bustling fishing village2.
By the 1940s, Gig Harbor was the home port for some 35 large purse seiners which followed the various fishing runs from Mexican waters to the Arctic seas3.
Gig Harbor was named from the Wilkes Expedition in 18404.
Gig Harbor Boat Works was established in 1957 by two boat builders, Ed Hoppen and Harold Rigg. One of their first accomplishments together was building a 17′ sailboat5.
Today, Gig Harbor is a popular destination for boaters and non-boaters alike, offering a variety of activities and events in a beautiful natural setting4 3 6.

The Tides Tavern at Gig Harbor is not to be missed.

Tolly Craft ‘Just for Us’ waiting for The Tides. I was!

Eagle Harbor

To get to Eagle Harbor in Washington State, you need to travel to Bainbridge Island, which is located in the Salish Sea. Here are some ways to get there by car:

Take the scenic route: You can take a nearly 2-hour scenic drive across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to get to Bainbridge Island from Seattle1.
Take the ferry: The other option is to take the ferry from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island, which takes about 35 minutes2.
There is no toll going west across the Narrows bridge. So it is less expensive to do a loop clockwise. You can have lunch at the Tides, and Dinner at Eagle Harbor and still get back to Seattle before it gets dark. We loved doing that in May of 2023.

The Seattle Yacht Club has an outstation at Port Madison, which is located near Eagle Harbor6. They also have a yacht club station at Eagle Harbor’s Winslow Wharf Marina at the end of A dock. Concert events are held at Eagle Harbor. There is a no motoring allowed area in the back bay. Overall, Eagle Harbor is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers a variety of activities and amenities for boaters and non-boaters alike.j

There are several restaurants near Eagle Harbor in Washington State that are popular among visitors. Here are some of the top-rated restaurants according to Yelp, TripAdvisor, OpenTable, and ValiseMag:

Adrift: This restaurant is located near Eagle Harbor and offers a variety of seafood dishes1.
Nonna Luisa Ristorante: This Italian restaurant is located near Eagle Harbor and offers a variety of pasta dishes1.
Anacortes Ship Harbor Inn Cafe: This cafe is located near Eagle Harbor and offers a variety of breakfast and lunch dishes1.
Brown Lantern Ale House: This ale house is located near Eagle Harbor and offers a variety of pub food and drinks1.
Fitzgerald’s Restaurant: This restaurant is located near Eagle Harbor Marina and offers a variety of American dishes2.
Bear Belly Bar Grill: This bar and grill is located near Eagle Harbor Marina and offers a variety of pub food and drinks2.
The Harbour Public House: This pub is located near Eagle Harbor and offers a variety of pub food and drinks3.
Hi Life: This restaurant is located near Eagle Harbor Dr NE and offers a variety of American dishes3.
Ba Sa: This Vietnamese restaurant is located near Eagle Harbor Dr NE and offers a variety of pho and banh mi sandwiches3.
The Eagle Harbor Inn: This inn is located near Eagle Harbor and offers a variety of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner4.

Overall, there are several popular restaurants near Eagle Harbor in Washington State that offer a variety of cuisines and dining experiences for visitors to enjoy.

The Bainbridge Island Waterfront Trail offers two loops with views of Eagle Harbor.

It begins in Eagle Harbor and leads you past parks, shops, and natural scenery for two miles before ending at Downtown Bremerton.

Port Madison

Port Madison is a Salish Sea destination located on the north end of Bainbridge Island, just west of Agate Pass1 2.Boaters enjoy this location for its quiet bay and beautiful scenery3. The Seattle Yacht Club has an outstation at Port Madison, which offers a variety of amenities, including a clubhouse, showers, and laundry facilities1 4.To get to Port Madison from Seattle by auto, you can take the Bainbridge Island Ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, and then drive north on Highway 305 to Port Madison5.Activities at Port Madison include:

Boating: Port Madison is a popular destination for boaters due to its calm waters and beautiful scenery3.
Fishing: Visitors to Port Madison can enjoy a variety of fishing opportunities, including salmon, halibut, and crab3.
Hiking: There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Grand Forest and the Bloedel Reserve3.
Shopping and Dining: Bainbridge Island is home to several shops and restaurants, including the popular Hitchcock Restaurant3.
Beachcombing: Visitors to Port Madison can explore the area’s beaches and tide pools3.

Overall, Port Madison is a great destination for boaters and non-boaters alike, offering a variety of activities and amenities in a beautiful natural setting.

The Seattle Yacht Club supported Jimmy Spithill early in his career.

Opening Day Port Madison Boats joining Parade

Cruising Log of the Murrelet

Grand Tour

Henry Island near Roche Harbor

Ganges

Ladysmith Ovens Island

Garden Bay, Pender Harbour

Cortez Bay Desolation Sound

Cortes Island’s protected harbours have been providing safe shelter for hundreds of years.

Sydney

Friday Harbor

Spencer Spit

Elliot Bay Blake Island

Gig Harbor

Eagle Harbor

Port Madison

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Henry Island near Roche Harbor

Ganges

Ladysmith Ovens Island

Garden Bay, Pender Harbour

Cortez Bay Desolation Sound

Cortes Island’s protected harbours have been providing safe shelter for hundreds of years.

Sydney

Friday Harbor

Spencer Spit

Elliot Bay Blake Island

Gig Harbor

Eagle Harbor

Port Madison

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