Set sail on Bellingham Bay during an evening with the Community Boating Center. This guided adventure offers a perfect blend of relaxation and maritime fun, suitable for all skill levels. Discover the stunning scenery and marine life as you watch the sun dip below the Olympic Mountains—an unforgettable experience awaits.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required, suitable for most visitors.
Wildlife
History
Bellingham’s maritime history dates back over a century, with active fishing and shipping industries shaping the town’s culture.
Conservation
The Community Boating Center emphasizes sustainable practices, ensuring the bay remains vibrant for future generations.
Community Boating Center
Set sail on Bellingham Bay during an evening with the Community Boating Center. This guided adventure offers a perfect blend of relaxation and maritime fun, suitable for all skill levels. Discover the stunning scenery and marine life as you watch the sun dip below the Olympic Mountains—an unforgettable experience awaits.
Community Boating Center in Bellingham, Washington provides accessible on-water rentals, lessons, and guided experiences on Bellingham Bay. The organization offers a range of watercraft including single sit-inside kayaks, tandem sit-inside kayaks, single sit-on-top kayaks, tandem sit-on-top kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, dinghies, and keelboats. Rentals are available for one-hour, two-hour, or full-day periods, and an evening sail offers a two-hour guided sailing experience on the bay.
Dinghy and keelboat rentals require a Skills Test that can be completed with an on-water assessment or by taking a refresher or intermediate sailing class. Community Boating Center runs programming focused on inclusion, such as Wild Women programs and partnerships with local organizations to provide financial assistance when available. Safety is emphasized: some sit-inside kayak rentals are recommended only for paddlers who know wet exits and rescue techniques. Lifejackets are included with one-hour and two-hour rentals.
The Center also offers tandem and recreational sit-on-top options suited for all ages and skill levels. Guided evening sails allow participants to help sail or relax while viewing local sights. By combining equipment rentals, safety standards, skills assessments, and women-focused programs, Community Boating Center serves as a practical and community-oriented choice for paddling and sailing on Bellingham Bay.
Staffed by trained instructors and seasonal attendants, the Center emphasizes local stewardship and safe access to waterways. Reservations and on-site check-in options support flexible visits. Equipment options and program scheduling vary seasonally, and participants are encouraged to review rental requirements and skill prerequisites before booking periodically.
Location
Bellingham, WA
Operations on Bellingham Bay
Tours Offered
10 Experiences
Kayak, SUP, sail, dinghy
Rental Lengths
1-2 hrs & day
One-hour, two-hour, full-day options
Safety Standards
Skills Test Required
For dinghy and keelboat rentals
Check availability, confirm Skills Test requirements, and book one-hour, two-hour, or full-day rentals and evening sails.
Dress in layers
The breeze on the water can be cooler than on land, so wear layered clothing to stay comfortable.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses
Evening sails still expose you to the sun’s rays, especially reflected off the water, so protect your skin and eyes.
Arrive early
Getting to the dock a little before your scheduled departure ensures a smooth check-in and time to settle in.
Secure personal belongings
Keep valuables stored safely, as the boat may rock with the wind and waves.
Layered clothing
Layer your clothing to stay comfortable on the water as temperatures fluctuate.
spring, summer, fall, winter
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from UV rays, even on cloudy days or during sunset.
summer
Sunglasses
Reduce glare from the water and improve visibility during the sail.
spring, summer, fall
Waterproof footwear
Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes for added comfort and safety on the boat.
winter, fall