Kids of all ages love to have fun, and for us – after all, we are just a bunch of big kids – being on the water is about as fun as it gets!
With the days becoming warmer and longer, now is the perfect time to be cruising the waters of the Pacific Northwest. We invite you to come along on any or all of our sell-out adventures – early reservations are recommended!!
Washington State is blessed with many things, but few can compare to the beauty and splendor of the San Juan Islands. Quietly nestled between Vancouver, B.C. and Fidalgo Island, yet bustling with life, the San Juan Islands attract visitors year round with each island offering something different and unique – so unique President Obama recently signed a proclamation creating the San Juan Islands National Monument. National monument status will permanently protect precious lands in the San Juan Islands. These sites, already managed by the federal Bureau of Land Management, include recreational areas beloved by locals and visitors, cultural sites used by local tribes for thousands of years, historic lighthouses, wildlife habitat, and much more.
Warm and friendly, Friday Harbor on San Juan Island is a port we frequently visit. Full of unique shops and museums, the island offers something for everybody. Come cruise to Friday Harbor with us on Saturdays, June 29 and September 21 where you can explore the island, kayak, or just relax and enjoy some laid-back “island” time. You’ll meet friendly locals and may see some exciting marine wildlife — three pods of Orcas are also “locals” in this area! We can also arrange for a van tour of the island. Join us for this great way to spend a day in the Pacific Northwest.
Are you more into great sunsets and food?? We’ve paired the best with the best for our Friday, July 12 Wine, Women, and Water Harbor Cruise. Wine tasting with flare, we’re offering five wines paired with chocolate, cheese, pasta dinner, and dessert – all presented by the winemaker herself, working girl Kathy Charlton of Olympic Cellars! But don’t let the name fool you – gentlemen are welcome on this event that is for everyone who loves wine, food, and being on the water!
Warm evenings are also great for bird watching or photography. A cruise around Protection Island (Friday evening, July 19), just west of the Quimper Peninsula, is the perfect place to view a large variety of sea birds. Whether you are an expert birder or just starting out, you’ll find our naturalist informing and knowledgeable, and ready to answer any of your questions. Come see what type of sea bird or wildlife you can find. And, as we pass Dungeness Spit on our return to Port Angeles, you’ll have a chance to photograph the historic Dungeness Lighthouse silhouetted against the Summer setting sun.
The Elwha saga continues – removal of the Elwha dams is changing not only the river but also the coastline surrounding the mouth of this great river. The fish are beginning their return to the river and, on Sunday, September 15, we’ll revisit the site where the river meets the Salish Sea. On board will be naturalists and Olympic National Park representatives to provide information about the dam removal, expectations, and what is predicted for the future.
As we move into the Fall we all start feeling a little “crabby” — Dungeness Crabby that is! In celebration of the Dungeness Crab Festival on Saturday evening, October 12, we’ll set sail around Port Angeles Harbor for our 3rd Annual Crab Cruise. Mouthwatering crabby cuisine, fun, and prizes make this an incredibly “crabby” evening and the perfect ending to an unforgettable Summer time of Fun!!
Scientists from around the region will give oral and poster presentations about their ongoing studies of the Elwha River ecosystem. From fisheries and wildlife to geomorphology and sediment transport, come and learn about the terrestrial, aquatic, and marine ecosystems of the Elwha. Dr. James R. Karr of the University of Washington will provide the keynote address.
The public is invited to view submitted posters and to hear a lecture by Mr. Yvon Chouinard, a noted environmentalist and founder of the outdoor clothing and gear company Patagonia.
A special event, as scientists, resource managers, and the public gather for a day of reflection, motivation, and celebration. Listen as leaders of the scientific community discuss the meaning and opportunities of the Elwha River Restoration Project. Confirmed invited speakers include: