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