San Juan and Gulf Islands Cruise

Itinerary

Day 1: Friday Harbor, San Juan Islands, Washington

Board the M/V Catalyst at 12 noon at Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands. After a brief boat orientation, cruise south down San Juan Channel and the wind-swept coast of Lopez Island watching for spotted harbor seals, Steller sea lions and seabirds on the numerous wildlife refuges. Three resident pods of Orca whales feed on salmon in these plankton-rich waters on autumn runs of Coho salmon. Enjoy a kayak orientation and nature hike on seaside trails rimmed with Douglas fir, Western Red Cedar and copper-barked Madrona trees on James Island Marine Park while you keep an alert eye for deer, bald eagles, raccoons, seals, and otters. Alpenglow over Mount Komo Kulshan’s snowy 10,107-foot summit complements your welcome aboard dinner in a quiet cove.

Day 2: Cypress Island Exploration

One of the most stunning panoramic views of the San Juan Islands is from Eagle Cliffs on Cypress Island. Huge glacial grooves gouge the basalt rock hundreds of feet above the sea. Almost four-fifths Department of Natural Resources land, Cypress Island offers miles of trails, wetlands frequented by wood ducks, lovely beaches, rare Garry Oak trees and potential sitings of endangered Perigrine Falcons. After lunch, navigate north up Rosario Strait past Orcas and Lummi Island to the gemstone of the archipelago—Sucia Island. Sculpted by glaciers, uplift, and ocean waves—Sucia’s natural galleries of cliff rock are reminiscent of honey-combing, flowing water, and frozen waves. Home to Oyster Catchers, whimsically-painted Harlequin Ducks, purple sea stars, and 80-million-year-old fossils, Sucia offers miles of trails and half a dozen tranquil coves to explore by kayak.

Day 3: Explore Sucia Island’s Geological Past

Today is devoted to exploring Sucia Island, and her off-lying satellites. You may kayak to Fossil Cove and enjoy a picnic lunch; and hike beneath over-arching madronas from Shallow Cove to Ewing Point. Sucia has a fascinating history, both geological and cultural.

Day 4: Cruise and paddle Patos and Matia Islands

These two protected islands, along with Sucia, are the northern most members of the San Juan archipelago. Patos is the sight of a lighthouse, which has seen over a century of essential use to navigators. Matia has been the home to hermits and smugglers. With their outlying seal haul-out islets, unique geological and topographical features, you could spend several days here and not yet have seen it all. After a day of paddle and foot borne wandering, return to “Catalyst” and cruise south to Stuart Island.

Day 5: Explore Stuart Island

Most of Stuart is privately owned, but a network of county maintained dirt roads provide access to most of the island. The view from Turn Point Light is breathtaking as freighters and private yachts turn the "corner" into Boundary Pass. Orca whales frequently hug the southwest shore as they seek the shoals of salmon that pass through these waters on their way to their natal creeks, mostly tributaries of the mighty Fraser River. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s Ball.

Day 6: Friday Harbor

Up anchor and begin heading back to your home port of Friday Harbor. You may swing out into Haro Strait if there is a good chance of seeing Orcas, or pause at Jones Island to take a last hike along a forest path. Arrive at Friday Harbor in time to catch an early afternoon ferry back to the mainland.

Trip Details

Ship	Catalyst
Highlights	Kayaking and nature hikes, historic wooden boat, Orcas whales, Sucia Island and privately owned Stuart Island.
Trip Notes	While this is a planned itinerary, each trip differs slightly depending upon the time of the tidal currents, the weather conditions, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the wishes of the passengers.Included: Accommodations; all meals aboard vessel; wine and beer; boots; kayaking equipment (spray shirts and gloves); shore excursions and activities. Not Included: Airfare; passport and visa expenses, where needed; travel insurance; gratuities to staff and crew are left to the discretion of the passenger.
Payment Policy	A deposit of $500 per person per trip or $5,000 for Whole Boat Charters is required to confirm your reservation. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Payment Methods: Deposit: credit cards are accepted (VISA, MC, AMEX, Discover). Final payment: check or wire.WE ARE UNABLE TO ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS FOR FINAL PAYMENT.

When can I go?

Start Date	Finish Date	Places Available
2008-09-22	2008-09-27	+
2008-09-29	2008-10-04	+
2008-10-06	2008-10-11	+
2008-10-13	2008-10-18	+

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