I have been eyeing San Juan Cruises for at least two years and this year my oldest son wanted to…read morecelebrate his birthday exploring by boat. Booking our adventure was extremely easy via the San Juan Cruises website. I greatly appreciate how detailed the reservation information was, and most importantly how courteous the entire team was throughout our time aboard. The team went into great detail about our journey, history on each island we passed, and insights on the protected wildlife we could possibly encounter during our voyage. The vessel was extremely accommodating for all of us on board, ample seating, viewing opportunities, and two restrooms. The team makes an excellent warm lunch was provided; while snacks and beverages were available throughout the entire duration of the voyage (grab a cup of coffee Blue Herron coffee beans based out of Bow, WA makes a great cup!) We managed to encounter eagles, seals, walruses, dolphins, a gray whale, and two different orca pods. Each sighting was absolutely breathtaking and majestic! I could not ever imagine going to a theme park to view these magnificent animals. The voyage takes between 5-6 hours plan, you'll be surprised at how quickly that time goes by. Helpful tip for parents bringing children feel free to pack coloring books, board games, binoculars, and snacks for your littles the San Juan Cruise team welcomes it for the little voyagers. My parents have already had planned to book an excursion during their visit next month, and I highly recommend for anyone who lives in or visiting the area to do so as well!

My boyfriend and I booked the afternoon whale watching cruise at San Juan Cruises not knowing what…read moreto expect and it ended up being the highlight of the weekend. The crew was very friendly and I loved that it was guided by the Captain and Naturalist onboard. I learned a lot about islands in the Salish Sea and we saw several species of animals. There are several great viewing spots on the boat and it's easy to see from inside if it gets too windy. I learned so much about the Biggs orcas, sea lions, and harbor seals. It's not promised, but we saw two different groups of the orcas right at the beginning of the trip and surprisingly at the end in Bellingham bay. It was so nice to learn about them and get an up close view (within safe distance). They served a lunch onboard which was included in the cost, however we packed our own. They also have beverages and snacks for sale throughout the ride. I didn't bring binoculars on board, but I did see people with them. My iPhone was enough to get close up videos and pictures of the animals! I would definitely recommend this to family and friends!

This is a fantastic charter company. Their attention to safe sailing is epic! I was totally…read morecomfortable sailing in new waters with their detailed no sail areas marked on the local charts. We had problems with our first boat and Lothar brought us a replacement early the next morning. A charter company can not fix problems unless those problems are reported by charter guests! I will sail with them again and you should too.

San Juan Sailing is THE top shelf boating experience in the Pac Northwest. The San Juan's on their…read moreown are fabulous with more than a dozen great marinas/destinations to choose from plus even more pristine natural anchorages. San Juan Sailing and Yachting makes the experience accessible and delightful. Get your cert to bareboat a power or sailboat (they offer combo classes/vacations) or hire an instructor skipper- you won't regret it. The folks at San Juan think of everything, and unlike the global charter conglomerates it's a decades old stand alone Bellingham WA professional boat chartering operation with the principals involved in the day to day guest experience operation-managing a super friendly and over the top customer service oriented staff. They all appear to really like their jobs! They also run these "flotillas" where a pro skipper takes a lead boat with some stateroom guests, plans a whole week or longer itinerary for 10 or so boats to cruise around to anchorages and marinas- in San Juan's plus many go further to Canada overnights. Great way to get introduced to sailing the local waters. You can focus on the navigating and sailing/boating and someone's already got the stops, attractions perfectly planned, plus you meet some great people with you on other boats when you dock up or moor/anchor together. You are likely to see orcas, porpoises, sea lions, harbor seals and otters. Of course bald eagles, herons and all manner of waterfowl. Get your WA shellfish license if you want to drop a pot (on the boats standard) and get some Dungeness crabs to steam up and feast on. I went on one flotilla with furthest stop Princess Luisa Sound two days north of Vancouver (May 2023) whole trip from and back to Bellingham was 10 days. We lucked out with fabulous weather so I'm almost hesitant to tell people about it because it was so incredibly stunning and enjoyable. Secret I probably should keep. All the boats are professionally maintained and the fleet is mostly new or near new and perfectly outfitted for the experience- highly recommend. Full disclosure I own one of the boats (but still a "customer" of the San Juan Sailing experience) basically just a "perfect for me" way to immerse into new sailing grounds (I'm formerly an east coast and Caribbean boater) My wife (who is the consummate fair weather sailor plus food/cocktail steward) and I love the luxe experience of taking our own boat out as "charter guests." No "boat clutter" like used to develop on my old boat. All the cleaning and linens, galley outfitting taken care of. Just show up with food and bev! Fair winds‍

You need to check their Alaska expeditions. They have…read moreseveral different types of trips from what I understand there 2 and 3 month trips that voters can take

If you are looking for a unique experience with beautiful scenery every day, and the opportunity to…read moretravel safely and confidently while navigating your own beautiful boat, this company has everything you need. Their boats are clean and very comfortable and they travel to new and gorgeous locations every day. You have a guide, a mechanic and a naturalist, and an all around helper, as well as the company of a small number of other travelers. Beautiful mornings, fun evenings, short travels each day through stunning scenery, wildlife, hikes, fishing, sunsets, this kind of trip has it all. You will make memories and friends that will last a lifetime. Highly recommend!!

What an incredible experience, from start to finish!…read more My husband and I went on Gato Verde's sunset cruise for our anniversary. The booking process was simple, and Todd quickly responded to questions we had prior to booking. We received a text and email reminder on the day of our cruise, with arrival time and specific directions to the boat. Upon arrival, Todd greeted us and led us to the Gato Verde, where we started off with a safety talk and learned about how the Gato Verde runs sustainably--super cool! Todd was an excellent captain; he was friendly and informative throughout, but he wasn't at all overbearing. We were able to have privacy for the majority of the time, then enjoy pleasant conversation with Todd at the times he moved around the boat. The Gato Verde was clean and well kept, and Todd even had games and an ukulele for playing! We LOVED hanging out on the hammocks on the front of the boat. We highly recommend the Gato Verde for any small group or private cruise--you won't be disappointed!

Came up to Bellingham for our anniversary and was looking for something romantic to do. We booked…read morethe sunset sail, and were very pleased. Todd was great at communicating beforehand, did a great job of telling us about the local landmarks and islands, and the best part was that there were only 6 of us on the boat! Not overly crowded like some charters can get, but enough friendly people to make conversation with. He cares very much about conservation and gave us some great local food and sightseeing tips as well. We'll definitely book again the next time we're in Bellingham!

West Coast has been servicing and repairing all my trailerable boats for over 20-years, I…read morewouldn't go any place else. They go the extra mile and give me expert advice; treat my repairs like it was their boat. Between West Coast for my trailerables and BMR for my cabin cruiser, I couldn't be happier. We are lucky to have these companies in Bellingham!

I just got hung up on ***twice*** by a guy named Brandon in the service dept while trying to…read moreschedule for the second week of Aug to bring my boat in. I had emailed them 2 times just to get some info about an older Volvo motor and possibilities regarding it's issue. They never responded so I called them yesterday, and after they found the 2nd email, they answered the questions. So I said please respond to the email. Then today I got a call from a Brandon, while he told me of the possibilities on the phone, he would not put anything in writing, i.e. email response, not even that there are a lack of parts for this motor. I've had good luck dealing with these guys in the past, but I don't know about this Brandon guy and his boss. Finally, upset I did call a 3rd time after being hung up by him twice, and he told me after talking to his boss that they would pass on looking at it, even though they work on Volvo boat motors. Very surprised and disappointed with these guys. Honestly, I hate posting negative reviews and prefer to post 5 stars as I often do for people, but I don't know how anybody can say West Coast Marine Services didn't earn this 1 star! Update: I just got off the phone with Volvo Penta

My wife and I chartered Diminuendo for two days in July 2026 and had an amazing trip with Captain…read moreScott and First Mate/Chef Todd. They are terrific hosts and extremely able sailors. We so enjoyed our trip and spending the time with them. They are easy to be with, and great storytellers. On top of that, Todd is a first class chef. The boat was very comfortable, and the unexpected bonus was that the entire cockpit is able to be fully enclosed in the case of inclement weather. I've been a boater my whole life, owned numerous boats over the past 53 years, and have over 4,000 hours at the helm of the boats that I've owned. Scott runs an A+ yacht and this is a trip I highly recommend if you are in the area (we traveled all the way from Florida to visit family and made this a priority on our vacation). Seeing seals and porpoises was the icing on the cake.

Under new ownership, captain Scott made me feel like part of the crew. NW sailing is classy. It was…read moregreat learning so much about weather, currents, local history, and exploring the islands. Go for a multi day charter, you do not want to miss Scott's coffee. I am a vegetarian and the food was so healthy and delicious! Scott has a clear love for sailing and sharing the islands with guests. Best vacation ever. If you are going sailing in the San Juan's don't mess with other charter companies.

How do we keep adding stars! From the time we met Jette and Jon, we felt right at home and spoiled…read more Sailing the San Juans was a dream come true, but little did we know how wonderful every single day would be. Attention to every detail from warm coffee mugs to fill our fresh coffee at 7am to gourmet lunches and dinners, and of course desserts. We had a wonderful time. Jon and Jette are the most gracious hosts, who now we consider friends. Jon keeping us safe and informed of the wildlife and sealife, but also taking us on hikes on islands only accessible by boat. Jette with her great sense of humor surprising us at every turn with a new talent from gourmet cooking, writing songs, playing her guitar and sharing her doodles are a few of the many talents she revealed to us. And then there is Geni, sweet Geni, their portugese water "boat" dog. We instantly fell in love and could not get enough of her. I don't now the last time I felt so relaxed and pampered. Thank you Jette and Jon for the wonderul memories! We are looking forward to returning next year! To anyone considering Sailing the San Juans - this is your charter! You will have the time of your life!

Well it has happened agin. I spent an absolutely idyllic week on the Northwind. This boat is a…read moredream to sail - or just watch the incredible scenery. Especially with the delicious scents of Jettes cooking wafting up- I ate more than I should have but it was too good to pass up! The wind and the water, sunlight or moonlight- its magic irl. Off boat excursions were terrific as well- hiking, kayaking, biking- its all there and so rejuvenating/relaxing. TailEr is her usual canine calming spirit. John and Jette continue to inspire me with their incredible skills: nautical, culinary and interpersonal! I could go on and on. The care and attention to all aspects of this trip is just superb. You should sign up as soon as you can though- they book up fast.

We took a dinner cruise and it was lovely. From Seldovia we sailed along the south side of Kachemak…read moreBay into Tutka Bay, catching sight of sea otters and watching the salmon jumping. The ship is beautifully appointed, with comfortable seats from which to view the gorgeous scenery. And the dinner was absolutely delicious! The food was wonderfully prepared and beautifully presented by the talented young chef. Highly recommended!

Coming from Glasgow, Scotland this was my first cruise! Jack and Kerstin, Captain and firstmate…read morewhere outstanding hosts! We toured San Juan's, went crabbing, Orca spotting and visited the resort of Rosario where we treated to a Spa. The bedrooms where comfortable, spacious and had great WiFi access. Whether it be there patience answering all my questions and educating me or the fantastic tasty creative meals Kerstin cooked! I give them the very highest of recommendations and have already booked my Alaskan tour with them for summer 2020.

I was visiting my daughter in Bellingham and was invited on a day out by Chariot Adventures. Cathy…read morethe owner of the boat made me feel relaxed as I was pretty nervous. She is very patient and teaches the people on the boat a lot about sailing while you are on your excursion. I would highly recommend her for an excursion or the other services she offers. She will take you out for a day or many days. You want a great experience, than Chariot Adventures is who you should call.

Our 2-day sail on Chariot with Cathy Franklin was fantastic. The boat is beautiful, Bellingham…read moreharbor is a great gateway to the San Juan Islands, and Cathy was wonderful. Chariot is well stocked, well organized and totally charming. The crew of six included my wife and I, our two girls (12 and 15), our good friend Murray, and Cathy. Cathy was calm, capable, and great fun to be with. She encouraged the girls to take turns at the helm which they loved, but I think they loved piloting the dingy best. Cathy pulled us all into the experience and shared her love of sailing and the San Juan Islands. We spent the night at Matia Island, then explored Patos, and Sucia. Finally we had a late dinner in secluded Inati Bay on Lummi Island and sailed back into Bellingham harbor under the stars. We will definitely be back. Thank you Cathy!

We did a bioluminescence evening tour. The guides-Ginny and Brianna-made it interesting,…read moreeducational, and fun. We ranged in age from 20 to 80 (our grandma is very fit), and all enjoyed the active experience.

What a wonderful community resource. As stated by S A, there are lots of options for hourly…read morerentals. We had rented paddle boards for a few hours. They asked if we had any questions or needed help. Since we did not, they just let us do our thing. I liked that. It gets intimidating having people always watching you or floating around if you do not want it. We did see them answering questions and helping people who requested it, so if you are nervous or in need of assistance they will happily help you out. There were also life jackets, wet suits, and even dry bags available for rental in addition to the equipment (canoes, paddle boards, sail boats). You reserve a slot and off you go to launch from their nice ramp, which is also open to the public. I definitely recommend wearing flip flops or water shoes. I am not from the area, so did not know what to expect. It was a bit rocky in some areas so I was glad to not be launching barefoot. The staff we had that day were fantastic. They were very nice and many of them very experienced and helpful. My friend told me they were also all volunteers. They do have a tip jar for their assistance though, so be sure to bring some cash to support them! All around great experience and I highly recommend if you are in the area looking for something fun to do!