Situated off the coastline between Vancouver and Seattle, there can be no better way to escape city life than to explore the dazzling San Juan Islands on a Pacific Northwest yacht charter. Discover the captivating beauty of this archipelago of islands and reefs at your own pace, just a short cruise from nearby yachting hubs.

Explore the islands of the Pacific Northwest by yacht charter

There are some 172 named islands in the San Juan island group, the two largest of which are San Juan Island and Orcas Island. Rich in maritime history, both are home to breathtaking national parks and quirky seaside towns, and surrounded by coastal waters teeming with rare marine life.

Best viewed from the sundeck of a yacht, the coastlines here are a mix of sandy and rocky beaches, reef-studded bays, deep harbors, and inlets and coves providing anchorage against majestic, natural backdrops.

Visiting these islands during a Pacific Northwest yacht charter is like stepping back in time to a world of ancient pine forests and mountain preserves, iconic lighthouses, farmers’ markets and vineyards. Dine on delicious farm-to-table cuisine at one of the many waterfront restaurants, and be sure to enjoy some of the delicious locally-produced wines.

San Juan Island Highlights

• Anchor down at Roche Harbor, which, at up to 14 metres deep, is one of the better-protected anchorages of the islands. It boasts a world-class marina that can host vessels of all sizes.
• The quaint seaside resort of Roche Harbor is undoubtedly the highlight of any Pacific Northwest yacht charter, with waterfront restaurants, independent boutiques and a full-service spa.
• Berth at Friday Harbor’s large marina and visit this bustling town, another must-see spot. Compact and walkable, it is teeming with museums, art galleries, antique shops and plenty of fresh seafood restaurants.
• Visit Lime Kiln Point State Park, an orca-whale lookout on the west coast.
• Stroll through the fields at Pelindaba Lavender Farm, and choose from a range of beautiful lavender-based products on sale.
• Spend the day hiking or biking through the island’s many trails and scenic routes.

Orcas Island Highlights

• Another must-see on any San Juan Islands yacht charter, this horseshoe-shaped island is known by locals as both the Emerald Isle and the Gem of the San Juans.
• Anchor down at Cascade Bay and enjoy the exquisite Rosario Resort, which has breathtaking ocean views, elegant waterfront dining and a wonderful spa.
• The beautiful Moran State Park offers hiking trails, cycling and horse-riding, and also has lakes and waterfalls to admire. Enjoy the extraordinary views from the island’s highest point, Mount Constitution.

Travelling aboard your own yacht also enables you to visit the unspoilt and lesser-known San Juan Islands of Stuart, Lummi and Sucia Island, where you can anchor down at one of six beautiful locations on its 14 miles of shoreline.

To discover more about Pacific Northwest yacht charter and book your own, contact expert brokerage Worth Avenue Yachts, whose Seattle yacht brokers will be happy to advise you.