Salish Sea & San Juan Islands Adventure

Description

Discover the secret places on Washington’s wild coastline. Kayak among rocky outcroppings, spotting sealife. Explore dramatic Deception Pass by skiff. Hike mossy island forests frequented by red fox, deer, and woodpeckers.

Trip Name

Salish Sea & San Juan Islands Adventure

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Small Ship Length: 192 feet Passenger: 86 guests Built: 1983, renovated 2013 - was the SS Legacy The one-of-a-kind Wilderness Legacy—or “whale whisperer” as many will tell you—is the fastest in the fleet. Capable of 15 knots, she sails to the farthest reaches spinning yarns of adventure along the way. Like the crew and guests having the time of their lives, she hums with each new opportunity. It’s no wonder that for many of the crew (and office folk), she’s a first love that never fades. And, a welcoming hub for souls looking for adventure. Onboard Features: Sea Dragon (the launch pad for adventure); kayaks, paddle boards, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles; two on-deck hot tubs; fitness equipment and yoga mats; piano; DVD and book library; wine bar; and elevator (with access to three of the four public decks). Cabin Features: TV/DVD player; hair dryer, bathrobes, conditioning shampoo, body wash; binoculars; reusable water bottles; in-room safe deposit box

Itinerary

Day 1 - DAY 1 Seattle, Washington – Embarkation

In a region renowned as a boaters’ paradise, your discovery begins from Fishermen’s Terminal. Set sail via the ship canal to Lakes Union and Washington—their glacially formed basins dug more than 12,000 years ago. After dinner, a sunset cruise through the historic Hiram M. Chittenden Locks and into Elliott Bay sets you right for the night. Seattle was founded along these shores and you don’t want to miss the skyline!

Day 2 - DAY 2 South Puget Sound

Mudflats, watersheds, and a microclimate feed the riches of the South Sound. Explore the intertidal zone by kicking in the mud with your guides looking for anemone and hermit crabs. Kayaking, hiking, and skiff rides are on tap, too—in one of the region's many state parks. At about 100 miles long, Puget Sound offers ample opportunity for observing the serpentined shore as you cruise through Tacoma Narrows and past Point Defiance, Vashon Island, and Bremerton. Cap off your first full day of play watching for Dall’s porpoise, with a front-row view from the bow.

Day 3 - DAY 3 San Juan Islands

Wake up surrounded by the wilds of the Salish Sea, a humbling 360 degrees of wilderness. It’s the captain’s choice where you’ll land today, but rest assured, you’ll be away from the crowds. There are unending options for investigating this sea-salty playground. If you’re kayaking, keep your eyes peeled above and below the surface. Rocky outcroppings play host to harbor seals—and it’s also orca territory. Ashore, it’s one boot in front of the other, hike through the forest or “take the high road” to ridges overlooking the archipelago. Join your expedition team on deck to search for whales, seals, sea lions, and bird rookeries as you cruise through the myriad San Juans—no two islands are the same.

Day 4 - DAY 4 Deception Pass / Strait of Juan de Fuca

A guided kayak reveals local inhabitants—sea stars, anemones, jelly fish, perhaps even inquisitive harbor seals. Walk along a curiosity-rich intertidal zone or stretch your legs on a mossy hike. And tides and current permitting, perhaps even sail through the swirling waters of Deception Pass. Later in the day, keep watch for marine mammals as you venture into the open waters where the Strait of Juan de Fuca meets Puget Sound. Drop anchor for the evening in a tucked-away cove.

Day 5 - DAY 5 Sucia Island

The treats keep coming! With no paved roads or even ferry access, enjoy your day on picturesque Sucia Island—total year-round population of four—a Washington State Marine Park filled with hidden coves and bays. You feel a million miles away from it all, exploring the intertidal zone with your guides, hiking across the island, and kayaking in a protected bay. It’s all up for grabs. Top off your adventure with a celebratory Farewell Dinner and a special presentation from your expedition team.

Day 6 - DAY 6 Seattle – Disembark

This morning, cruise through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks and tie up back in Seattle’s Fishermen’s Terminal. After breakfast, the captain and crew bid you a fond farewell. Safe travels to all!

Day 7 - Please Note:

Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur to maximize your experience.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Explore the Salish Sea’s San Juan archipelago, South Puget Sound, and Deception Pass
Transit the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks and cruise Lakes Union and Washington
Hike in rainforest, old-growth forest, and state parks
Kayak, paddle board, and skiff in island channels formed by glaciers
Watch for whales, orcas, seals, and sea lions
Birding opportunities—eagles, seabirds, and migrating flocks
Educational presentations by your expert expedition team