easy
2.5 hours to full day
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires mobility to safely board and move on deck
Set sail from Anacortes aboard a classic schooner with Sail Anacortes. Enjoy rich wildlife sightings and Puget Sound’s coastal grandeur on trips from two hours to full day adventures.
Off the rugged coast of Washington State, the town of Anacortes serves as the gateway to some of the Pacific Northwest’s most stunning maritime landscapes. Sail Anacortes offers a distinct way to navigate these waters aboard the historic schooner Anse La Roche, a wooden beauty that commands attention with its classic lines and full sails. Located near the San Juan Islands, this experience brings the sea to life with wind in the rigging and the panoramic expanse of Puget Sound as your backdrop.
Whether you choose a Two and a Half Hour Sail, a Half Day Sail, or a Full Day Sail, the itinerary is shaped by the region’s unpredictable but often rewarding weather and wildlife presence. Captain Kevin’s expertise transforms the journey into a relaxed journey with a purpose; guests frequently spot orcas, seals, porpoises, and bald eagles against the backdrop of salt-sprayed islands and old-growth forested shorelines. Some full day sails include a guided hike and picnic on Cypress Island, adding a terrestrial element to the maritime adventure.
Sail Anacortes stands apart because it offers authentic sailing—where canvas catches the wind and the boat glides under its own power rather than motor assistance. The vessel’s traditional design and the captain’s deep knowledge create a connection to the region’s maritime history and natural rhythms. Diverting from the crowded ferry routes, this schooner offers quiet moments on the water accented by informative conversation and open access to the vessel’s deck.
Anacortes itself is a hub for outdoor adventurers seeking to move beyond typical sightseeing into a genuine experience of the Pacific Northwest’s fjord-like coastlines. From wildlife viewing to sunset sails that turn the sky molten red, Sail Anacortes invites visitors and locals alike to invest a few hours—or an entire day—into adventure on the water that leaves lasting memories.
Even on sunny days, wind and spray can make temperatures feel cooler on deck—layering helps stay comfortable.
Allow plenty of time for check-in and pre-sail preparations to maximize your time on the water.
Wildlife sightings like orcas or eagles can be distant; binoculars enhance your view.
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventive measures before boarding for a safer trip.
Wooden schooners like the Anse La Roche reflect the Pacific Northwest’s long maritime heritage, tracing trade and fishing routes dating back over a century.
Sail Anacortes operates with an emphasis on minimal environmental impact, using wind power over fuel and educating guests about local marine ecosystems.
Protects against wind and spray during the sail.
all specific
Provides safe footing on wet decks.
all specific
Reduces glare off the water on bright days.
summer specific
Enhances viewing of distant wildlife and landscapes.
all specific