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George Vancouver, an English sea captain and well-known explorer, arrived in this area in the early 1790's. After weeks of sailing in the open ocean his mood needed a lift, and when he entered Puget Sound, the very waters that we travel through, he was transformed by the striking, serene beauty of the land and seascapes that surrounded him. Today, find the same mountains, inlets and islands that so inspired Captain Vancouver. Here, orca whales move silently through the water in search of salmon. Seals and sea lions lounge on rocky islets, and black bears and deer flourish in the deep, evergreen forests. Spectacular snow-capped mountains fall steeply to the waters of the Sound. Experience everything from sandy beaches offering silence and solitude to the charming and welcoming towns and cities such as Friday Harbor in Washington's San Juan Islands, and Victoria, British Columbia. Whether browsing art galleries in hideaway ports or kayaking in the wilderness fjords of the Pacific coastal mountains, your sure to find a world rich in nature and culture waiting.

Day 1 - Seattle, Washington Embarkation

Upon arrival, transfer to the Safari Quest, docked at Seattle’s historic Fishermen’s Terminal. The crew will greet you with champagne and smiles as we set sail. Soon after departing, transit the historic Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, being lowered 20 feet from freshwater Lake Union to the saltwater of Puget Sound. En route enjoy cocktail hour and dinner prior to arriving in a pristine bay for our evening anchorage.

Accommodations: Safari Quest
Included Meals: dinner

Day 2 - Victoria, British Columbia & Butchart Gardens

Settle into the rhythm of the Salish Sea as we leave our busy lives behind. Cruise along the “inside track” between the eastern shoreline and the mainland as we head north towards Victoria, British Columbia. After clearing customs, travel to Butchart Gardens to view the 52-acres of botanical wonder and to enjoy a traditional British “High Tea.” After your time at Butchart Gardens, travel to downtown Victoria at leisure; visit the Royal British Columbia Museum, the historic and elegant Empress Hotel and the array of quaint shops that are nestled throughout the garden city. This afternoon transfer back to the yacht and set sail for Jervis Inlet.

Accommodations: Safari Quest
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 3 - Jervis Inlet & the Harmony Islands

Known as a “yachter’s paradise,” today explore the protected waters of Jervis Inlet. Be sure to have binoculars in-hand and all eyes open for orca whales, porpoise, hundreds of seals, and sea lions out on the rocks along the shoreline. Explore the sheltered Harmony Islands as you take to the surrounding waters in your kayak or join the crew in the skiff to explore more. Those who have a zest for adventure may join the crew for a truly natural shower at Friel Lake Falls, a cascade that plummets 1,400 feet before relinquishing its water in a voluminous, sea level spray.

Accommodations: Safari Quest
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 4 - Princess Louisa Inlet

Today roam on shore and along the calm waters of Princess Louisa Inlet, considered one of the ten most beautiful locations on earth. Princess Louisa Inlet, only half a mile wide and walled in by 5,000-foot, near-vertical mountains, culminates at the tremendous Chatterbox Falls. Anchor in the inlet and enjoy an exploration on foot and by kayak. Before retiring for the evening, enjoy the solitude while relaxing in the upper deck hot tub or enjoy a nightcap in the salon with your fellow yachtmates.

Accommodations: Safari Quest
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 5 - Nanaimo & Gulf Islands

After crossing the Strait of Georgia we visit the city of Nanaimo. Once docked, enjoy the picturesque waterfront promenade and marina. Upon returning to the yacht, set sail to cruise among the protected waters of the Gulf Islands heading south towards Washington’s San Juan Islands. Our Executive Chef prepares another delectable dinner as the anchor is dropped in a specially-selected cove for the evening.

Accommodations: Safari Quest
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 6 - Washington San Juan Islands & Friday Harbor

The day will have us meandering through the hundreds of untouched islands in the San Juan’s. Be on the watch for orca whales and other marine wildlife. Dock at Friday Harbor on the largest of the islands, San Juan Island. Enjoy time at leisure to stroll through the tiny town’s boutique shops and art galleries and visit the intriguing Whale Museum, to learn about the resident pods of orca that call these island waters home.

Accommodations: Safari Quest
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 7 - Coastal Cruising

Cruising through open seascapes and islands of the Pacific Northwest, the scenery is stunning and the passages are just right for “gunkholing,” or exploring, as landlubbers would say. A highlight is a stop at one of the most striking places in the San Juan Islands, Stuart Island. Enjoy a hike along a bluff to the Turning Point Lighthouse. Back on board, join the Captain on the bridge to fully enjoy the abounding wilderness and calming sense of solitude or relax on deck while keeping an eye out for orcas and other sea life. Tonight, delight in a festive Captain’s Farewell dinner while nestled in a picturesque cove.

Accommodations: Safari Quest
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 8 - Seattle Disembark

Rise early today for morning kayaking along the shores of Jones Island before we get underway for Friday Harbor. Arrive just after a hearty breakfast and bid you farewell as you leave to make your connections home.

Accommodations: n/a
Included Meals: breakfast

Notes on Itinerary: We may occasionally alter itineraries slightly for safety, or to take advantage of weather, wildlife, and unplanned discoveries. Our ability to be flexible makes our style of cruising unique.

Single Travelers: Single share program is available in AA and AAA cabins. Travelers willing to share accommodations are guaranteed the double rate, even if a share is not found. Single rates available upon request and vary by cabin and trip date.

Land Cost Includes: Your accommodations aboard the specific vessel, meals, naturalist guided activities, national park entrance fees and transfer from vessel to airport on day of disembarkation.

Not Included: Airfare to Friday Harbor, Washington, excess baggage charges, taxes and port fees, gratuities to Naturalist Staff and crew, items of a personal nature such as alcoholic beverages, and insurance of any kind.

Arrival/Departure: The Northwest Passage Cruise begins and ends in Friday Harbor, Washington. If arriving on departure day, please arrive no later than 2:30pm; embarkation is at 5:30pm. All outbound flights should be made after 12:00pm on the final day.

Payment and Cancellation Policy: Please see AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions.

Travel Insurance: We highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with Travel Insurance. Please note that you must purchase your Travel Insurance policy within 14 days of booking your trip for it to cover pre-existing medical conditions.


Qualifications: This trip is available to any traveler with a love of nature and sense of adventure.

General Information: This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations 'Terms & Conditions'. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A packing list, extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information is sent upon confirmation. We strongly recommend the purchase of Trip Insurance through AdventureSmith Explorations. If purchased within 14 days of sign-up, the pre-existing condition exclusion is waived.

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Call today.

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