Three-and-a-Half Hours Around Gig Harbor: Salt, Sky, and the Narrows
A private 3.5-hour circumnavigation of Gig Harbor’s best shoreline sights
The boat heels gently as we slip out from beneath the harbour’s fingers; morning light lays a muted silver on Puget Sound and the Tacoma Narrows hums in the distance like a held breath. For the next three-and-a-half hours the water becomes a moving theater: lighthouse silhouettes, suburban shorelines softened by firs, and an ordered scatter of islands that seem to exist to be circled, observed and understood. This is The Whole Gig—an expansive private tour designed to stitch together the narrative of Gig Harbor’s shoreline from Wollochet Bay to Salmon Beach, across Toliva Shoal and under the twin arcs of the Narrows bridges.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for coastal change
Temperatures can drop on the water even in summer—pack a windproof layer and a light insulating midlayer.
Bring binoculars
A small pair of binoculars transforms seals and eagles into family-friendly highlights without crowding the rails.
Protect your camera
Water spray and boat motion warrant a small neck strap and a microfiber cloth to keep lenses clear.
Mind the boat rules
Follow the crew’s safety brief—no standing on gunwales while underway, and secure loose items during wakes.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Toliva Shoal tidal eddies—great for observing foraging seabirds at low tide
- •Quiet cove view of the Wurlitzer Mansion—you’ll understand its unique placement from the water
Wildlife
Harbor seal, Bald eagle
Conservation Note
These waters support sensitive marine life—avoid approaching hauled-out seals, don’t feed wildlife, and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce chemical impacts.
The Tacoma Narrows famously collapsed in 1940 ('Galloping Gertie') due to aeroelastic flutter; the present bridges and surrounding engineering lore are part of the tour narrative.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migratory birds, Mild winds
Challenges: Unpredictable rain, Lower visibility some mornings
Spring brings active birdlife and good chances of seeing migratory species; pack rain layers and expect variable light.
summer
Best for: Calmer seas, Longer daylight hours
Challenges: Higher visitor demand, Sun glare on the water
Summer offers the warmest, most stable conditions—ideal for photography and relaxed viewing—book early for weekend slots.
fall
Best for: Salmon runs, Crisp clear days
Challenges: Cooling temperatures, Possible stronger winds
Fall yields strong ecological interest as salmon move and raptors feed; bring warm layers for cooler mornings.
winter
Best for: Dramatic weather scenes, Storm-watching
Challenges: Rougher seas, Shorter daylight; heavier rain
Winter tours can be dramatic but are more weather-dependent—operator may reschedule for safety; the cabin is heated.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Blocks spray and wind chill while the boat is underway.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare and improves visibility for wildlife spotting.
Binoculars or spotting scopeEssential
Helps pick out seals, eagles and distant shore details without crowding the rails.
Non-slip boat shoesEssential
Safe footing during boarding, disembarking and when moving on deck.
Common Questions
How large is the boat and how many people can it hold?
The tour uses a 2023 Jeanneau NC895 with an enclosed heated cabin and seating for up to 6 passengers—4 comfortably inside the cabin and up to 6 total for the full 360° views.
Are children allowed on The Whole Gig?
Yes—this tour is open to all ages, but keep in mind the 30-mile route and 3.5-hour duration; it may be long for very young children.
Can we bring food and drink?
Light snacks and adult beverages (no heavy coolers) are allowed; a small onboard refrigerator is available for guest use.
Will we disembark on any islands?
No—this is an observational charter focused on narration and viewing from the vessel rather than landings.
What happens in bad weather?
Charters may be rescheduled for safety if conditions are unsuitable; the operator prioritizes comfort and won’t run a tour unless it’s safe to do so.
Is gratuity included?
No—captain and crew gratuity is not included; it’s appreciated but never expected.
What to Pack
Sunglasses for glare; Windproof jacket for chill and spray; Binoculars for wildlife; Non-slip shoes for safe boarding
Did You Know
The original Tacoma Narrows Bridge famously collapsed on November 7, 1940—an event that reshaped modern suspension-bridge engineering and earned the bridge the nickname 'Galloping Gertie'.
Quick Travel Tips
Book summer dates early; Confirm departure marina with operator; Expect patchy cell service on open water; Bring small change for dock fees or local purchases
Local Flavor
After the tour, walk Gig Harbor’s waterfront for fresh Pacific Northwest seafood—Anthony’s at Gig Harbor is a popular waterfront option—and sample local brews at Gig Harbor Brewing Company; downtown’s galleries and maritime shops capture the town’s working-boat heritage.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA) / Drive: ~40–50 minutes to Gig Harbor / Departure: Gig Harbor Marina (confirm with operator) / Cell service: generally good near shore, patchy in open channels / Permits: none required for passenger charters
Sustainability Note
These are living marine ecosystems—pack out all trash, keep a respectful distance from wildlife, and use reef-safe sunscreen to help reduce chemical runoff into Puget Sound.