San Juan Island Cruises Let You Experience the Journey of a Lifetime

The San Juan Islands belong to an archipelagic treasure trove in the Pacific Northwest. A collection of hundreds of islands, the San Juans teem with wildlife on land and in the sea. As a result, it has become the destination of choice for seafarers, whale watchers, and adventurers from all walks of life.

Visitors can reach San Juan Island, the second biggest of the four main islands, via an hour’s ferry ride from the mainland port of Anacortes, WA. Another way to access this piece of paradise is via air, with flights arriving at Friday Harbor Airport daily. Pontoon planes are also available from Seattle’s Lake Union that deliver you right to the downtown docks. From there, you can take private charters for a few hours, to half-a-day, to overnight, allowing you an intimate view of what the San Juans have to offer. Read more from this blog: http://bit.ly/2rtu6yV

An Effective Guide to Getting the Most out of Your San Juan Island Whale Watching Tour

Whale watching lets you see these large mammals in their natural habitat. These up-close encounters don’t happen often, so you need to make the most of them. You can if you prepare for these voyages ahead of time.

Know Where to Spot Whales
Once you’ve climbed on board one of these charters and you’re situated, people often ask where the whales will be. The crew may tease you saying, they will be in the water. And everyone will have a good laugh. Whale are creatures living in their natural habitat. They don't follow a set schedule. The famous San Juan Island orca whale travel in groups called pods. They are very social and they spend a lot of time looking for salmon, their favorite meal. This group behavior makes them easier to spot and most of the captains of whale watching excursions share the latest updates as to where the whale are at any given moment.

Most seats on the fast boats are perfectly fine for viewing and photography. Sides seats might have a cleared view, but you're more likely to fully feel the salty spray. Don't worry. You won't miss out. Everyone on the boat will know when whale are insight.  Read more from this blog: http://bit.ly/2rtzZMw

Whale Watching in the San Juan Islands: Getting to Know the Majestic Beauties

In the San Juan Islands, massive marine mammals are studied and monitored by the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor, a museum that teaches tourists the importance of protecting the oceans and keeping the endangered orcas alive. They perform extensive research to keep track of each whale that swims through the Salish Sea.

An orca pod can contain a dozen to several dozen individual whales, and there are three active pods (J, K, and L) that can be seen often in the San Juan Islands. Interestingly enough, the locals and the nonprofit groups who work together to protect these creatures can easily identify the pods by their markings and other behaviors. As a matter of fact, they lovingly denote many of the whale with both a code number and a name. Orcas average life-span is around 50 years old. There are orcas in the pods who are less than two years old. A whale in J-pod, affectionately named “Granny” recently passed away was estimated to be over 100-years old.
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Voyages on the Sea: What You Get Out of Serene San Juan Islands Cruises

Many people look to the sea when they want to get away from their busy lives. Giant cruise ships are more popular than ever. But, after awhile you may begin to feel like you're trapped in a huge hotel on water. Private boat charters in the San Juan Islands afford you a different kind of luxury and so much more. When experiencing a private charter, you start to feel one with the ocean, your "ship", and sharing experiences with those who run it. Whether you’re going out with a loved one or just wishing to indulge in nature's beauty, private charters provide an intimate adventure of truly breathtaking surroundings.

Mesmerizing Views

Think of it. Could there be anything quite like sailing on the sea in an iconic wooden schooner—modeled after the tall ships of old? As soon as you step on deck, your sea blood rushes with anticipation of a genuine nautical adventure. Choose your time on the water. Even if for just an afternoon, you can see a bounty of sea life, from otters, to porpoises, to seabirds, to schooling salmon. Perhaps the most famous aquatic residents of the San Juan Islands are the pods of orca whales. More than 100,000 people each year visit this area to get a glimpse of these magnificent creatures up close.
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Understanding the History and Symbolisms of Burials at Sea, and How It’s Done Today

Saying farewell to a departed loved one is never easy. You can make it more meaningful and have a symbolic and intimate event through a proper burial at sea. There are many symbolisms and rules that surround this ceremony. At present, it’s done in many cultures and in several places in the U.S., and to honor your loved you can do it one as well.

A Look at Its History

Many religious and historical accounts have mentioned burials at sea or scattering of remains into bodies of water. During the Viking Age, the privilege of a ship burial and being cast into the sea is reserved for honored warriors and kings. It was believed that the ocean serves as a portal between the human world and the spiritual realm. Sending off the departed through the waters symbolizes the end of physical life and the beginning of spiritual rebirth.
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Private Charters Can Provide Valuable Services Including Burial at Sea

Burials at sea are intimate ceremonies that allow families to bid farewell to their departed loved ones for the final time. If you wish to have this special rite done for a relative or a friend, private charters can make it happen.

Beliefs and Traditions
During the era of the Vikings, ship burials were customary to give honor to fallen warriors and leaders. Other religions like Judaism and Christianity make mention of sending off the dead into the sea to cleanse their souls and bring them closer to heaven.

As the industrial revolution encouraged maritime travel across the oceans, shipbuilders and seafarers also practiced burials at sea for health and safety reasons. Superstitions back then say that a dead body aboard a ship brings bad luck, and they should bury them beneath the waves as a peace offering to the sea spirits. Read more from this blog: http://bit.ly/2rtoXXw

Bringing Some Essential Gear Can Make San Juan Island Charters the Perfect Escape

If you’re looking for a new adventure with your family or friends, what better way to immerse yourself in some world-famous, breathtaking scenery than with a private charter in the San Juan Islands? A private charter is more intimate than riding on a giant cruise ship. You won't be needing a trunk-full of formal attire. Stunning views are awaiting you, but to get the most out of these charters, you should carry along a different set of boating essentials.

Boating Shoes

Any boat's deck is bound to become wet and slick while at sea, whether from the waves or weather. The last thing you want to do is slip or even injury yourself. The right kind of shoes are exactly what you need. The perfect boating shoes are made for slick surfaces with non-skid soles. Look for non-skid shoes with a wide heel to maintain balance. The smaller the vessel, the more likely it can make sudden turns or be subject to an occasional ocean swell. Wide heels will give that extra grip with the deck, and they're more comfortable.

The shoe's bottom will give you plenty of traction to complement its anti-slip sole. This way, you gain maximum grip, no matter how wet the deck gets during your private charter. You might consider bringing non-skid shoes with mesh uppers, which allow your feet to air out when they do become wet on the deck. Also, because you will quite often be physically active, the best shoes will offer ample cushion and support. Read more from this blog: http://bit.ly/2rtfj7c

Marvel at Nature’s Wonders and Visit the San Juan Islands for Whale Watching Adventures

Just a few hours’ drive north of Seattle, you’ll find yourself in the idyllic maritime region of the San Juan Islands. This archipelago is made up of hundreds of large and small islands. Only a few of them are even inhabited, and a huge portion of these landforms are kept as nature preserves.

But apart from the land, the true treasures of the San Juan Islands lie within its deep blue waters. Awe-inspiring whales such as the orcas, minkes, and humpbacks grace this region with their presence to the joy and amazement of tourists. If you truly want to embark on an epic adventure, then get yourself ready for a day of whale watching. Read more on this blog: http://bit.ly/2f1hrOV

Biodegradable Urns: A Green Idea for Traditional Burial or Burial at Sea

It’s no surprise that the eco-friendly trend has had an impact on the funeral industry. People are choosing to become environmentally friendly even after life, since traditional burial practices can consume a lot of resources and energy that have a negative impact on the environment. Nowadays, more and more people are opting to have eco-friendly burials in a variety of ways, which include the use of biodegradable urns for either a burial at sea or a natural burial. The transformation of ashes into artificial coral reefs, among many other innovative green alternatives to traditional burial and ash-scattering practices.

Biodegradable urns are usually divided into two categories according to the type of burial they are intended for, i.e., a natural burial or a burial at sea. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2oEgoeu

The Burial at Sea Ceremony in Ancient and Modern Times

The Burial at sea ceremony is an ancient form of disposing of human remains in the ocean, usually from a ship. It is a common ceremony performed by navy officers, but nowadays it can also be done by anyone.

Origins of ancient burials at sea ceremonies

There is not a single point of origin for this type of burial, as this type of ceremony has been recorded throughout history in different cultures and in many places around the world. For example, in the South Pacific, bodies were wrapped in a red cloth and set out to sea in a canoe, while people in India who practice Hinduism have historically cremated their dead on the shores of the Ganges River. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2nGV1Ed

What to Consider Before Going Whale Watching on the San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are one of the most privileged places in the world for whale watching, since they are home to 3 pods of Southern Resident Killer Whales, also known as orcas. As of December 2016, the orca population on the islands was 78, which is why they are on the endanger species list. You can observe these massive beauties from a safe distance on a charter services and sometimes from shore.. If you’re planning on going whale watching around the San Juan Islands, here are some things you should know first.

What to Wear

In the open water, the weather tends to be breezier and it is possible that you will get wet, so make sure to wear warm yet comfortable layers of clothing. Also, this will protect you from the sun due to the reflective water. You might not be aware of the sun due to the wind or the ocean spray, but the ocean’s water will magnify the sun’s rays and you can get a sunburn without even noticing until the end of the day. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2nGZTZT

Go Whale Watching at San Juan Island and Live an Unforgettable Experience

Whale watching around the San Juan Islands is a mesmerizing activity that attracts tourists from all over the country and overseas due to its population of orcas. Visitors enjoy the beauty of this massive yet graceful animal from a safe distance. However, there are frequent questions that should be answered before embarking on this adventure to make sure you truly get the most out of the experience.

When should I go whale watching in San Juan Island?

The Salish Sea, which includes San Juan Island, is home to Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKW), hence their nickname “Orcas of the Salish Sea”. This is the only killer whale population to be classified as an endangered species, and you will most likely see these types of whales in the Salish Sea from spring to fall. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2oEkXFF

Sailing Traditions: A Guide for Onboard Guests Who Take a San Juan Islands Cruise

The San Juan Islands archipelago is located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States and belongs to the state of Washington. It is comprised of 172 amazing islands with wonderful wildlife to watch and a whole lot of nature to explore. And what better way to do that than by taking a San Juan Islands cruise?

A cruise is an excellent alternative for enjoying the majestic beauty and natural landscape surrounding the area. Once on the main Island, you can take a sailboat to sightsee and spend time exploring the area. But, before you get on board, heed these few tips on sailing etiquette so that you can feel like a welcome guest on board.

Getting on the Boat

Regardless of the type of vessel–be it a sailboat, a yacht or a catamaran–it is customary to request permission to come aboard. It is a tradition that, albeit not mandatory, is customary. It is a respectful tradition that will instantly win favor with the crew and will surely get everyone in the sailing mood. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2nH0qLL

Two Wildlife Watching Activities You’ll Enjoy during San Juan Islands Cruises

The San Juan Islands are a beautiful archipelago located in the Pacific Northwest, just off the Pacific Coast. You can get there by air, land and sea, using many of the transports available. Using the Washington State Ferry lets you enjoy a preview of the islands’ beautiful scenery. If you decide to catch a flight, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the archipelago, or if you prefer to travel by land, you can catch a shuttle bus from SeaTac International Airport.

Once on the main island, the best way to explore the archipelago is to take one of the many available San Juan Islands cruises.

There are 172 islands in the archipelago–and 4 are served by Washington State car ferries—San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw Island. They vary in size, but they have one thing in common: thriving wildlife. If you are a bird watcher or a nature lover, this is a trip you will greatly enjoy. To give you an idea of what you can experience, read this brief preview of nature-watching activities that open a portal as wide as the sea to a wonderful array of marine life around the islands. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2oEuoVk

Private Sailing Company Takes a New Route to Adventure from the San Juan Islands

Schooners North now offers an incredibly scenic experience to people who want to go on a sailing charter starting in the beautiful San Juan Islands. The crew will be taking a “new” route allowing passengers to visit The Broughtons. Schooners North now offers private charters for groups that want to have a serene sailing experience on Spike Africa, the newly restored 80-foot schooner. The vessel will travel the famous Inland Passage, an area that lies between the mainland of Canada and Vancouver Island, BC in order to get to The Broughtons.

The protected waterway of The Inland Passage is a sight to behold in and of itself. Sailing through here offers a smooth and tranquil adventure fit for those who have an appreciation for the abundant marine wildlife found throughout the archipelago. Traveling further along brings the ship to The Broughtons, a famous cruising area characterized by deep channels, fiords and breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2nH5b7L

Learn about San Juan Island Charters to Enjoy the Beauty of the Salish Sea

The San Juan Islands are probably the Salish Sea’s best kept secret, but the word is getting out as evidenced by its increasing popularity as one of the top destinations for sailing and whale watching. Why, you might ask? Due to its privileged location in the Pacific Northwest, the San Juan Islands and Salish Sea are home to breathtaking wildlife which includes otter, seal, sea lions, porpoise, and the majestic orca whale, among other sea life.

San Juan Island charters are equipped to treat you to an adventure to enjoy the sea’s natural wonders. The following are just some of the marvels to be enjoyed under sail on the Salish.

Wildlife

Not only are the San Juan Islands home to the largest population of bald eagles in the United States, they are also the home of three pods of Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKW), also known as orcas. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has listed the orca as an endangered population, and so the charter services are carefully regulated to protect the whale population. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2nH2ZNB

Organizing Burials at Sea with the Help of Trusted Private Charters

Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy. Many families also tend to worry over funeral arrangements, and how difficult they are to organize. As with traditional funerals, burials at sea also require a lot of preparation. If this is a course that you wish to take for the dearly departed, then you can find assistance from private charters that specialize in these events.

Rooted in Tradition

Naval officers and sailors are often given the honors of burials at sea, a practice for many seafaring nations in Europe ever since the 1600s. At that time, ships had to travel across the oceans for months on end. If anyone onboard died, the only practical solutions was to bury him at sea. As the centuries passed, superstitious sailors believed that burying the dead at sea is not only a means of paying respect, but also a form of protection from evil spirits for those on board. Today, anybody can be given a burial-at-sea ceremony, if the family so wishes.

Guidelines from the Authorities

In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has provided a set of norms under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA) in permitting burials at sea. The deceased may be given a burial at sea when either in a casket or scattered as ashes. A casket burial has very specific regulations. By law, operators of marine vessels administering the ceremony must secure a permit beforehand. They may perform burial no less than 3 nautical miles from the shore. In line with this, the families of the deceased are required to report the burial to the EPA within 30 days after the ceremony. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2o16kLh

Ways to Make San Juan Islands Whale Watching a Magnificent Experience

Whale watching is an exciting activity that lets you see magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. It is a recreation that can be enjoyed best when you are suited and booted for the occasion, while staying safe and comfy. Whales are magnificent creatures which attract thousands of people to the coasts each year. Before participating in this activity, you need to know some things to enhance your experience. So, here are some tips on San Juan Islands whale watching.

Know When It’s Whale Season

Know when it’s whale season and where they are hanging out. Whales travel around a lot, alternating between their summer and winter hangouts. The San Juan Islands is the place the Orca pods of the west coast hang out. This is good because weather conditions in the winter could make for an outing that is wet and chilly to say the least. Whales can be seen at any time of the day, but are never on a set schedule. They follow the food, which for most is salmon. That is one reason a healthy salmon population makes for a healthy Orca population. Everything is inter-connected. You will find that most whale charter services have a pretty good idea where the Orcas are on a given summer day.

Bring Binoculars

With a pair of binoculars, you can zoom in on a whale and really see what they are doing. However, be careful. Some feel a bit sea sick when looking through binoculars for long periods of time. Still others are so excited, they forget all about getting seasick. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2nv9Auq

Four Amazing Benefits of Embarking on San Juan Island Cruises

Part nature tour, part sightseeing, and part island safari--enjoy all or choose your own adventure with San Juan Island cruises. You can even go back in time on the deck of a classic wooden schooner that embodies the vessels of centuries ago.

Going on San Juan Island cruises is an activity anybody who loves the outdoors should experience at least once in their life. Families, private parties, wedding parties, whale and wildlife watchers, as well as those curious about the local Pacific Northwest culture, can all enjoy wending their way through this verdant archipelago. Keep an eye out for marine life while saving an appetite for genuine Northwest cuisine. There are many endearing facets to San Juan Island cruises.

See Multiple Destinations

On a San Juan Island cruise, you are journeying through four of the archipelago's main islands, where a laid-back lifestyle and natural beauty merge. You can see sea lions, whales, a myriad waterfowl and sometimes, during the fall, schools of coho salmon skimming the surface of this protected waterway called the Salish Sea. A visit to quaint tourist towns, such as Eastsound, Friday Harbor or Roche Harbor, allows you to sample some local seafood, should your sailing party's whim steer you that way. Orcas Island hosts a scenic state park and the highest peak among the islands, Mount Constitution. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2nv3udJ

Enjoy the Marvels of the Sea by Putting Safety First on a Sailboat Charter in the San Juan Islands

Enjoying a vacation on a sailboat charter in the San Juan Islands is a truly amazing and unique experience, especially because you are sailing while touring. Legitimate cruise companies look after the safety of their passengers. Professional charters are staffed by certified captains and crew members on deck. Sailing the sea is fun, but as with all recreation, you should always be careful and safe. Below are some suggested precautions to ensure your own personal safety while sailing.

Boat Security

Your captain and crew are responsible for the safe securing of the vessel when your cruise includes going ashore. But, if your captain seems amiable, he or she may share simple instructions allowing you to assist with the docking if you would like to participate. Stay alert. All good sailors follow the captain's orders.

Before going ashore, if you are leaving any valuables on board, ask the captain where such things might be safely stored. This might include money, bank cards, travel documents, and other personal belongings. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2nv3udJ