Customized private charters are our speciality. On your trip we can spend the day fishing, island hopping, or any combination of activities you want to enjoy. Explore some of the possibilities described below or call us to discuss any of your ideas. Let us know what you want to do on the water and we will do our best to accomodate any special requests.
Island Hopping
Best Times: All Year
Over 150 islands are in the San Juans, yet the state ferry only goes to four. With our rugged vessels you can go almost anywhere in the San Juan Islands - we can even do beach landings! Discover the many coves and inlets of Sucia, hike through the pristine old growth forest of Matia, experience the wonder of cruising under Deception Pass Bridge, and so much more. Hop over to Lummi Island for a night to remember to stay or dine at the Willows Inn. We can even travel deep into Canadian water and explore the craggy coastlines of Saturna, the Pender Islands, Salt Spring, and beyond.
Bottom Fishing
Best Times: May - October
One of our most popular family activities, bottom fishing trips are great for fishermen of any skill level. We frequently take out first time fishermen as young as 4 and 5 years old as well as skilled veterans. We highly recommend bottom fishing for a group considering their first fishing experience in the San Juans. Usually everyone catches fish and the techniques are easy to learn. We can also drop some pots and catch crabs or prawns!
Seasons: Bottom fishing is open year round
Shrimp and Halibut are open in May
Lingcod is open May 1st - June 15th
Crabbing is open July 15 - September 30th (except Tues & Wed)
Salmon Fishing
Best Times: July - October
After that elusive 30lb King? We offer roughly 5-6 hour Salmon charters from July to October to allow enough time to hunt these magnificent fish. During the summer we can get silver, king, and pink salmon. Salmon fishing requires a longer run to get to the best fishing locations. Sometimes we head out almost 40 miles to get to the best spots. Salmon fishing is more hit and miss than bottom fishing. The pay off can be big but patience is necessary. For that reason it is not recommended for young children or for first time fishermen. During July and August advanced reservations are highly recommended.
Season: Summer July 1st - October 30th
Winter November 1st - April 30th
Photography
Best Times: All Year
There are few places as uniquely beautiful as the San Juan Islands. Incredible rugged landscapes, ocean vistas, diverse wildlife, and historical sites abound in this region of countless wonders. You can direct the captain to help you get the perfect angle for that special shot, stay with wildlife as long as you desire to await the opportunity for that exquisite once-in-a-lifetime moment, travel off the beaten path to get the perfect backdrop for spectacular portraits. Even get expert tips and advice from our professional naturalists.
Time of day: We recommend evening sunset charters to get spectacular golden light. Evenings also tend to have fewer other vessels out on the water to avoid photobombs.
Discover Lighthouses
Best Times: All Year
The allure of lighthouses has captured the imagination of every generation. These historic landmarks and ocean icons resting upon some of the most dramatic coastlines are a wonder to behold. Set out on a journey to see them as they were designed to be seen - from sea. We can even land on some of the remote islands to experience the lighthouses on shore and arrange for a tour at the historical museum on site at Turn Point Lighthouse.
Destinations:
Patos Island Lighthouse - Patos Island
Turn Point Lighthouse - Stewart Island
Lime Kiln Lighthouse - San Juan Island
Cattle Point Lighthouse - San Juan Island
Birdwatching
Best Times: All Year
The San Juans Islands, Canadian Gulf Islands, Puget Sound, Straight of Georgia, and the Straight of Juan de Fuca combined are the Salish Sea. This amazing ecosystem is home to a wide range of birds throughout their breeding season, as well as a wealth of birds that over winter here and a key stopover site for many species on their migration.
Seasons: birds can be found here all year
Spring - shorebirds, Harlequin Ducks, Loons, Grebes, Black Brant
Summer - Bald Eagles, Tufted Puffins, Black Oystercatchers, Pigeon Guillemot, Rhinoceros Auklets, Murres, Murrelets
Fall - Terns, Pacific Loons, Common Loons, Black Brant
Winter - Goldeneyes, Long-tailed Ducks, Surf Scoters, White-winged Scoters, Bufflehead, Widgeon, more