May
20
2022
June, July and August are the months our docks are empty and everyone seems to be up north! Is this in your plans? Do you want to go and have questions? Post your questions and stories here…
The San Juans, the Gulf Islands, Desolation Sound, Barkley Sound, the Broughtons, and beyond are all common destinations of local boaters for the summer months. The weather is great, the days are long and you have time to get back home before school starts or the fog sets in.
This isn’t something you do in a weekend…it can take a week or longer to get there (depending on how far you go) and the same back, so time allotted is important. Don’t try to do too much at once. It can be crowded at times (it’s popular), but the views/scenery/experience is absolutely unbelievable. World cruisers say that the best cruising grounds are right here in our own backyard!
May
13
2022
South Sound is an underrated destination. Most boaters head to the San Juans and points north, but south of the Narrows you will find a quiet, island dotted area that has terrific anchorages with incredible views of Mt Rainier and the Olympics.
It’s about a 5 hour run to Gig Harbor from Shilshole but break it up with a visit to Blake Is, Blakely Harbor or Quartermaster (on Vashon). It’s then a quick run over to Gig Harbor to wait for favorable current to go through the Narrows.
Time your southbound trip through the Narrows for a flooding current. Stay in the middle away from the bridge pylons to avoid the back eddies and to get the most push. You’ll be surprised at your speed over ground as you zip though and how quickly you cover the distance. You’ll pop out on the east end of Fox Island. Your cruising guides will list all possible anchorages to explore and their amenities. Here is what we did last year… Continue Reading »
May
07
2022
Many boaters at Shilshole race their own boats or crew for others. There are major (all day) races almost every weekend during the spring and fall and more relaxed (1-2 hour) races during the summer. If you have never tried racing, you are missing out on a great way to improve your sailing skills; which will greatly enhance your cruising -you’ll sail more efficiently, sail faster and do less motoring.
We have a couple local clubs that give you an opportunity, with no experience or cost as crew, to get out on the water and work as a team. It’s as simple as showing up on time, having warm dry clothes and lifejacket, listening to the skipper and the more experienced crew, and showing an interest. It’s not a party; its a fun, competitive team sport.
Check out their web sites for how to get involved…
May
04
2022
This past Wednesday was our quarterly Dock Captain meeting with the Port where we have an opportunity to hear the latest updates from the Port regarding security, construction, proposed changes, and any other issues concerning Shilshole Marina.
dock captain notes 4-27-22