Pacific Northwest Passage

Upon arrival, transfer to the Safari Quest, docked at Seattle’s historic Fishermen’s Terminal. The crew will greet you with champagne and smiles as you set sail. Soon after departing, transit the historic Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, being lowered 20 feet from freshwater Lake Union to the saltwater of Puget Sound. En route enjoy cocktail hour and dinner prior to arriving in a pristine bay for your evening anchorage.

Settle into the rhythm of the Salish Sea as you leave busy lives behind. Cruise along the “inside track” between the eastern shoreline and the mainland as you ship heads north towards Victoria, British Columbia. After clearing customs, travel to Butchart Gardens to view the 52-acres of botanical wonder and to enjoy a traditional British “High Tea.” After your time at Butchart Gardens, travel to downtown Victoria at leisure; visit the Royal British Columbia Museum, the historic and elegant Empress Hotel and the array of quaint shops that are nestled throughout the garden city. This afternoon transfer back to the yacht and set sail for Jervis Inlet.

Known as a “yachter’s paradise,” today explore the protected waters of Jervis Inlet. Be sure to have binoculars in-hand and all eyes open for orca whales, porpoise, hundreds of seals, and sea lions out on the rocks along the shoreline. Explore the sheltered Harmony Islands as you take to the surrounding waters in your kayak or join the crew in the skiff to explore more. Those who have a zest for adventure may join the crew for a truly natural shower at Friel Lake Falls, a cascade that plummets 1,400 feet before relinquishing its water in a voluminous, sea level spray.

Today roam on shore and along the calm waters of Princess Louisa Inlet, considered one of the ten most beautiful locations on earth. Princess Louisa Inlet, only half a mile wide and walled in by 5,000-foot, near-vertical mountains, culminates at the tremendous Chatterbox Falls. Anchor in the inlet and enjoy an exploration on foot and by kayak. Before retiring for the evening, enjoy the solitude while relaxing in the upper deck hot tub or enjoy a nightcap in the salon with your fellow yachtmates.

After crossing the Strait of Georgia visit the city of Nanaimo. Once docked, enjoy the picturesque waterfront promenade and marina. Upon returning to the yacht, set sail to cruise among the protected waters of the Gulf Islands heading south towards Washington’s San Juan Islands. The Executive Chef prepares another delectable dinner as the captain drops anchor in a specially-selected cove for the evening.

The day will have you meandering through the hundreds of untouched islands in the San Juan’s. Be on the watch for orca whales and other marine wildlife. Dock at Friday Harbor on the largest of the islands, San Juan Island. You’ll have time at leisure to stroll through the tiny town’s boutique shops and art galleries and visit the intriguing Whale Museum, where you will learn about the resident pods of orca that call these island waters home.

Cruising through open seascapes and islands of the Pacific Northwest, the scenery is stunning and the passages are just right for “gunkholing,” or exploring, as landlubbers would say. A highlight is a stop at one of the most striking places in the San Juan Islands, Stuart Island. Enjoy a hike along a bluff to the Turning Point Lighthouse. Back on board, join the Captain on the bridge to fully enjoy the abounding wilderness and calming sense of solitude or relax on deck while keeping an eye out for orcas and other sea life. Tonight, delight in a festive Captain’s Farewell dinner while nestled in a picturesque cove.

After breakfast on board the Captain and crew will bid you a fond farewell. A transfer to the Seattle airport or local hotel is included. Safe travels to all!