Northwest Cruising Grounds

1 Week Trip (Sample Itinerary)
2 Week Trip (Sample Itinerary)

Bellingham, where Sail Northwest Charters is based, is the perfect spot to begin your sailing adventure. From this central location you can cruise the San Juan Islands or British Columbia including Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and Desolation Sound. This amazing variety allows you to find a new anchorage every day, with a plethora of different sights and sounds along the way.

The islands are gathered together and nestled between two mountain ranges: the Olympics and Cascades. This ideal location creates a sun belt receiving less rainfall than the state overall. Also, this locale produces calm, protected waters with many inlets for anchoring and exploring. The water is deep and the winds perfect for sailing, yet you are never too far away from an active and safe harbor.

Many of the islands are designated state parks, enjoying very little activity and thriving in natural beauty. They are the home of incredible wildlife, fishing, and world renowned Orcas who travel and reside in these serene passageways. On your adventure you are likely to see eagles soaring above and sea lions basking in the sun on the edge of incredible precipices or secluded beaches. Sea otters may also join you venturing directly up to your boat to satisfy their curiosity.

There are so many quaint and interesting places to see and sail in the islands, so we provide several books to guide you. But here's a list of our favorite spots that are easily negotiable within your week aboard.

Some of the sites you can see:

(click for details)

• Spencer Spit
• Sucia Island
• Friday Harbor
• Jones Island
• Roche Harbor
• Reid Harbor

The nice thing about sailing in the San Juans is that you have a wonderful variety of anchorages and marinas to explore, yet you don't have to pass through customs.