Why Crewed Yacht Charters to the San Juan Islands Can Be Good for Your Health and Well-Being

Seeing an unparalleled variety of wildlife, numerous unspoiled isles, and a historical ship at work are great reasons to consider Schooners North for crewed yacht charters around the San Juan Islands. But did you know that making time for such trips can also have substantially positive effects on your well-being?

Here are several ways sailing through the archipelago will benefit your health – and even change your outlook on life.

A “blue mind”

According to Wallace J. Nichols, a noted author and marine biologist, humans have a “blue mind”. This means that we are “hardwired to react positively to water”, and that just being near it rests our brains. That’s because being by the open water – or on it or under it – simplifies the sensory stimuli that tax our brains while we do our daily routines. With fewer sounds, sights, and smells to take in, the mind can clear and cleanse itself, reset, and refocus. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2Bf4LkK

Cruising the San Juan Islands, Washington: Why You Should Book as Early as Now for May-October Trips

Throughout the San Juans, the seasons dramatically change, and as such, visiting during the Summer could be a completely different experience compared to traveling here for the Winter. While all locals agree that the islands are beautiful and inviting all year round, there really is no better time of the year to visit than from May to October. During this period, the archipelago is at its most lively, ensuring that tourists never want for entertainment and exciting things to do.

If cruising the San Juan Islands, Washington is one of the top items to cross off your bucket list for the next year, you better start planning right now. You can expect voyagers to flock to this dream destination, so it’s never really too early to book a trip. Need a little more incentive to make early reservations? Here’s what you can expect from an idyllic cruise during May to October. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2yZNndG

A Boat Charter North of the Border: Exploring Beyond the San Juan Islands

For many a visitor, the San Juan Islands are paradise enough. The archipelago off the Northwestern United States has plenty to offer anyone wanting to retreat into craggy coves and pebbled beaches, or relish seeing wildlife on open water.

Yet not so far from the famed destinations of San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw is another set of isles that promise wonders. These are Canada’s Gulf Islands, just northwest of the San Juans. They’re near enough to explore if you’re in the area for an extended stay – and you can easily find a boat charter company, like Schooners North, to take you there.

“Gulf” Islands, but not really

Despite their name, the Gulf Islands are not in a gulf; they’re in the Strait of Georgia, which separates Vancouver Island from British Columbia. The strait is still part of the Salish Sea, the home of the San Juans. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2BgoSio

San Juan Island Cruises: Opt for a Lengthier Stopover on the Lopez Island to Explore Its Farmlands

With its pristine, blue waters and perpetual sailing weather, the San Juans are often dubbed as a “boater’s paradise”. Despite being given that title, however, the islands offer a lot more than just great on-water experiences. The archipelago is made up of more than 450 islands at high tide, and a different kind of adventure awaits travelers on nearly all of them. From biking or hiking on scenic trails to visiting local galleries and museums, there’s plenty of activities to keep you just as busy on land.

If you are planning on booking private San Juan Island cruises any time soon, there’s one location you should never leave out of your itinerary: Lopez Island. In between the so-called Friendly Isle’s 63 miles of shoreline are miles and miles of farmlands waiting to be explored. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2yZB419

Always Stay Hydrated During Your Day Cruise to the San Juan Islands

Sea sickness could be the least of your worries on a day cruise to the San Juan Islands. Did you know that dehydration is actually one of the most common illnesses you can get on a ship? It’s not the voyage itself that’s making you sick however, but the rapid changes in environment and the activities you engage in over the duration of your trip.  You may be having so much fun, you lose track of your body's basic need for water.

This can happen rather easily.  During summers in the San Juans, the temperatures on land can run higher than when you’re cruising on the water. Increased heat can cause your body to sweat more, rapidly depleting your reserves of electrolytes and moisture. It’s also entirely possible to get dehydrated even during the colder months because the lower temperature diminishes the body’s thirst response by up to 40 percent. While you may not feel like drinking some fluids, your body could be in dire need of a refreshing drink. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2yYh4fg

Hiring a Sailboat Charter and Other Tips for the Ultimate Fishing Trip

Many people love to engage in outdoor activities as a way to relax after a long week at work. While camping and hiking are very popular outdoor activities for most people, fishing is also a fantastic option. For the sport fishing inclined, what could be better than the feeling of conquering the challenge of hauling in a prized fish after an intense struggle?

If you have been fishing for a while now, however, you may find that freshwater fish are beginning to put up less of a challenge for you. In such cases, you may want to increase your ambitions and experience a new way of fishing. For example, offshore fishing in the San Juan Islands is a fantastic experience. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2BfG1sF

Great Advice for Taking Your Family Pet to His First Yacht Charter Around the San Juan Islands

If your family is the adventurous and dog-loving sort, you’d be very reluctant to leave poor Rover or Spike behind when you go on a holiday sailing expedition. After all, as much as it’s more convenient to drop your canine friend off at a pet boarding place, a vacation is not as enjoyable without the whole family present. If you want to take your dog to his first yacht charter in the San Juan Islands, there are a few things you can do to make the voyage more comfortable for him. Take note of these tips before you book a trip with your charter company of choice.

Make it a Private Affair

For your furry pal’s first trip to the sea, it’s best to have the whole boat to yourselves. Going on a public cruise with a lot of strangers on board could prove to be unsettling for your pet, so going on a private voyage is the best option. Familiar faces and more room for running around will also be better for everyone else who comes along. You might want to take time introducing your dog to the crew, though. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2Bg2Nka

Unique Ideas for Next Family Reunions: Sail the Seas on a Boat Charter

It can be a little difficult to plan family reunions—and that’s only taking logistics and food into account. If you are starting to get tired of the typical backyard barbecue, you may want to look into unique experiences as a way to better bring your family closer together. One such idea would be to set off on a boat charter.

Aside from the obvious fact that you’ll need to run this idea through everyone before booking a boat charter in the San Juan Islands like Schooners North, you’ll also want to make sure that everyone prepares accordingly so that everyone has a great time. There is a good chance that many of your family members will be on a boat for an extended period of time, so proper preparations are in order. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2yYVg39

Boat Charters: Discover the Best Kept Secrets of the San Juan Islands for a Relaxing Weekend Getaway

Exuding mellow vibes and a calm atmosphere, the San Juan Islands are seemingly made for weary souls seeking reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city. Easily accessible and conveniently located near Seattle, it is perhaps the best destination for a quick weekend escape. And while the islands—namely the San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island and Shaw Island—offer much in the way of relaxation, these are still the most heavily populated places in the entire archipelago. After all, these are hubs that connect all the other islands together.

If you want a real taste of the laid back island life, you need to venture out to uncharted waters by booking multiple day boat charters. There are a few notable hidden coves and secret beaches to discover all over the San Juans. If you’re sorely in need of a little R&R, keep a weather eye on the horizon for these. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2yYXAXV

Orcas to Oystercatchers: The Wildlife You Can Spot When Cruising the San Juan Islands, Washington

It’s no secret that cruising the San Juan Islands, Washington, is the activity of choice for anyone craving to see wildlife and nature at their most unguarded and pristine. There’s many a special sight for day tripper and avid explorer alike, with hundreds of birds and marine mammals known to live or travel through the archipelago.

It may take more than a little luck for anyone to spot the archipelago’s rarest wildlife, but there are several animals you will probably see just about any time you go cruising at peak season – and even if you go sailing another time of the year.

Orcas

Better known as killer whales, orcas are the area’s most famous animal attractions and live in the archipelago all year round. People visiting the San Juan Islands in the spring through fall are bound to see three orca pods, or families, that typically emerge during those seasons. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2iGrafE

The Pig War: A Curious Bit of History for Your Day Cruise Around the San Juan Islands

As soon as you board a schooner for your day cruise around the San Juan Islands, you will not only set foot on a vessel that’s part of the archipelago’s history, you will also be going on a voyage that mirrors journeys countless others have taken in the past. Though you may not be charting new waters as were 18th-century explorers, in a unique way, you will be sailing in their wake.

That’s why it’s stimulating to know some of the histories that make the San Juan Islands what they are today. With them in mind, you may find a deeper appreciation – and heightened excitement – for your one-of-a-kind day cruise.

A shared sea

Does your itinerary involve sailing to the U.S.-Canadian border? Are you planning a quick pass through British Columbia’s islands? If your answer is “yes” to either question, you’d do well to know how you’re able to sail so freely through the two countries’ shared sea. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2AN7pcI

Remember to Pack These Items When You Go to Cruises Bound for the San Juan Islands

Have you already started packing for your voyage in the San Juan Islands? No doubt you’ve already covered the basics including weather-appropriate clothing, toiletries, sunscreen, and snacks, but be sure to make room in your luggage for other cruising essentials. If this is your first time on a charter, take note of these items. It’s better to be prepared for what lies ahead.

Waterproof Bags and Cases

It’s a safe assumption that you’re going to get wet on the cruise at some point, especially if you plan on spending as much time as possible on deck. Along with moisture-wicking clothing and rubber-souled shoes, invest in a dry bag or two. These watertight containers will come in handy if you plan to sneak in some diving or snorkeling in between islands. Use it to carry your gadgets, cash and other valuables whenever you leave the ship. And just for another added layer of security, get waterproof cases or bags for your cameras, phones and other electronic devices. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2ijpCId

How to Get Your Sea Legs on Multiple Day Crewed Yacht Charters

A multiple day voyage on a seafaring vessel is by far the best way to explore the San Juan archipelago. Sailing is a fun and easy vacation for most, but if someone in your party should suffer from motion sickness, they might have a more difficult time adjusting onboard. That shouldn’t discourage you from enjoying the trip, though. Help them get their sea legs easily with a few advanced preparations. Here are some great tips for smooth sailing.

Set Forth to Calmer Waters

In favorable weather, the Salish Sea is relatively calm, offering a smooth sailing experience to sailors. The entire Salish Sea is a waterway protected from Pacific Ocean swells by hundreds of little islands as well as the 290 mile-long Vancouver Island.  You won't have to worry about choppy waters and large waves rocking the boat. But just to make doubly sure, check the weather forecasts or ask experienced local sailors when the best time for sailing is. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2As4UfR

Let Your Kids Discover Their Love for Sailing by Taking Them to Their First Yacht Charter

Cruising around the San Juan Islands is as ideal as vacations can get. It’s a fun way to explore the archipelago, but most importantly, it presents you with the opportunity to learn about oceanography, history, and naval architecture. If you’re looking to introduce your kids to sailing, a great first step would be to take them on a yacht charter. Here are a few tips to let them discover their love for sailing.

Find an Experienced Crew

Chartering with first timers can be quite difficult even if you have some experience with sailing. Instead of going bare boat, look for a company that provides a fully crewed vessel. Having a seasoned skipper at the helm and a reliable, amiable crew on the deck will make your kids feel safer on the journey. The crew would also be more than willing to teach children a few useful things about operating the vessel. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2AJLRxU

Four of the Outer San Juan Islands You Should Visit on Your Boat Charter

There is a wealth of good reasons why travelers of all stripes recommend spending days on and around San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw. These four islands offer the very best of the Salish Sea when it comes to natural attractions, outdoor activities, wildlife watching, and the pleasures of port: dining, shopping, and culture.

However, there’s much more to see around the San Juan Islands than these four main destinations. If you’re planning a boat charter around the archipelago, why not make the most out of your trip and explore its farther reaches?

Here are several islands you can only visit on a private charter.

Patos Island

Patos Island – named after the Spanish word for “duck” – is at the northernmost tip of the San Juan archipelago. While its name may come from an eastern rock formation that looks like a duck’s head, or the sight of so many ducks on the isle, the island’s most distinctive feature is the Patos Island Lighthouse. This fully restored, red-roofed structure has guided vessels through the boundary between the United States and Canada for over a hundred years. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2AJgkMt

Observe Green Practices on Boat Charters Around the San Juan Islands

Observing sustainable and eco-friendly practices has become the norm for many households across the country, but you don’t have to leave this habit at home when you go on vacation. While it’s easy to get caught up in all the excitement of sailing around the San Juan Islands, don’t forget the environmental impact your voyage can have. These green sailing tips will help preserve the breathtaking destinations and protect the local aquatic wildlife.

Dispose of Waste Responsibly

A vast number of majestic sea creatures consider the San Juan Islands their home. Passengers must do their part in keeping the waterways clean by properly disposing waste. Instead of throwing trash overboard or anywhere on the deck, ask the crew where they keep waste that will later be discharged on land. The same goes for organic waste like food and potentially harmful chemicals like detergents. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2ijl1Wv

Smooth Sailing Advice for Your First Overnight Adventure on a Boat Charter

If there’s anything better than seeing the wonders of the San Juan Islands in broad daylight, it’s cruising on the calm waters on an overnight adventure. You just can’t pass up the experience of watching the sunset over the Salish Sea as you sail into a remote bay to set your anchor under the light of a full moon. If this is your first overnight voyage, however, you have to know that it’s going to be a completely different ordeal. Here are a few tips to help you make the best of your trip.

Dress Warmly

Expect the temperature to take a significant drop, especially if you like to frequent the deck. Ward off the cold by doing your best to stay dry. Avoid clothes that could get damp just by catching the sea spray, and bundle yourself up with anti-moisture apparel made of materials like polyester or laminated fabrics. On top of all that, put on a thermal insulated jacket so you can easily keep yourself warm with your own body heat. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2i2vWU8

Book a Sailboat Charter to Take You to the Best Whale Watching Spots around the San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are renowned for being some of the best places to observe the majestic whales in their natural habitat. While the waters are always teeming with aquatic life, if you randomly go island-hopping there’s no guarantee that you’ll get a glimpse of the famed orca whales. There are 172 named islands and reefs in the San Juan County as well as some hidden coves.  So, if you don’t want to get lost, make sure you have an experienced crew to guide you.

If this is your first time visiting the archipelago, you will want to visit the most famous whale watching spots first. It is true, there are speedboats that will take you there.  But, since you've come all the way to the San Juan Islands, why not make a full-day's adventure out of it.  Book a sailboat charter and head to these destinations for a wonderful trip that includes a lifetime of memories. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2AtmBvw

Nautical Nuptials: What Makes San Juan Islands Cruises Great for Weddings

Despite the buzz it’s currently generating, the concept of at-sea #weddings is not something new. In fact, it has been a part of maritime history, with tales of sea captains performing marriages on decks of ships. Read more on this article: http://bit.ly/2ylODsL
http://bit.ly/2ylODsL

Keys to Having the Perfect and Romantic Wedding Using San Juan Island Charters

Weddings are special events that you want to remember forever. And for an adventurous couple who are seeking to tie the knot in a truly unique and memorable setting consider having your ceremony on a San Juan Island charter. Not only are they dramatically beautiful, but they let everyone experience something bigger than themselves. These events can go perfectly if you plan ahead.

Bring Plenty of Refreshment

If you take one of these voyages during the summer, it can be rather warm. That’s why it’s so important that everyone has plenty to drink during the wedding. Below decks, most charters have plenty of storage options for keeping drinks cool. They’ll be ready to go the moment your guests and family arrive. Read more from this blog. http://bit.ly/2wp0O7d