Not intended for navigation. Routes and distances are approximate and are determined by each skipper based on conditions and preferences.
Our cruising region is comprised of hundreds of islands ranging from small rocky outcrops to large forest-clad and mountainous masses. The waters are rich with seafood… salmon, rockfish, scallops, Dungeness Crab, mussels and clams. Wildlife abounds on the land and in the sea. You’re just as likely to encounter tiny squirrels, deer and migratory birds, as you are to see seals, Sea lions, and Orcas. Have you ever seen a whale breach… heard the whoosh of air exhaling through its blowhole or been amazed by the sheer beauty of a pod of Orcas gliding through glassy waters?
7-Night / 8-Day Itinerary
Day 1Anacortes to Aleck Bay
Cruising miles: 16
Depart from Anacortes and cruise to quiet Aleck Bay on the south end of Lopez Island. Pick a spot to anchor off the south shore. Catch a crab dinner and enjoy the sunset for your first day afloat.
Day 2Victoria
Cruising miles: 24
An early departure gets you to this fascinating provincial capitol in time to begin exploring. After checking into Canadian Customs, moor in front of the majestic Empress Hotel. Afternoon tea, gourmet restaurants, duty free shops, bag-pipers, and a world-class museum are all just steps from your boat.
Day 3Roche Harbor
Cruising miles: 25
After a leisurely morning in Victoria set your course around Discovery Island and north to Roche Harbor.
Day 4Reid Harbor
Cruising miles: 5
This large and well-protected anchorage is just north of Roche. En route, watch for the abundant Orca whale pods that frequent this area especially in the spring and early summer. Stuart Island, which surrounds this harbor, has terrific hiking trails with vistas across the shipping lanes.
Day 5Friday Harbor
Cruising miles: 12
Set a course east and south to this the “capitol” of the San Juan Islands. The town knows how to please the boater with gourmet grocery stores, restaurants and shops of every variety.
Day 6Blind Bay
Cruising miles: 8
Located on Shaw Island, just opposite Orcas Island, Blind Bay offers wonderful protection from winds and weather. It can be a little tricky to get in and out of this small bay, but the privacy of this place is well worth the extra effort.
Day 7Hunter Bay
Cruising miles: 10
Meander through the San Juan Islands s into Lopez Sound for a quiet anchorage at Hunter Bay. Catch a Dungeness Crab dinner and savor a peaceful evening “on the hook” or a mooring buoy.
Day 8Anacortes
Cruising miles: 13
The final day return to Anacortes offers a breathtaking view of majestic snow capped Mt. Baker in the distance. Take time to plan your next AYC charter.
