Washington Wilderness - Olympic National Park & San Juan Islands
United States Small Ship Cruises
Hike, kayak, & whale watch on this small ship cruise in the Pacific Northwest
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8 days
- Prices from$5600 Rates
- Book This Trip
Overview
The Pacific Northwest sets the stage for this active adventure cruise. Snow-capped mountains rub shoulders with lush rainforests in this huge backcountry - and it’s all yours to explore! Your small boat puts you in this unique environment, providing the perfect launchpad for the small guided group activities on offer.
On your kayaking excursions, find yourself hobnobbing with the kings of the Salish Sea, the orcas and Gray whales, and as you hike, the land giants, bears and Golden Eagles.
You will start and end in Seattle, the gateway to the two standout wilderness areas you will visit: the San Juan Islands Archipelago and Olympic National Park. Dotted with dozens of islands, you will navigate the Salish Sea around Lopez, Orcas, and Sucia Islands. Olympic National Park will showcase her rugged beaches, tumbling waterfalls, and glaciated mountains on the final leg of this incredible journey.
Highlights
- Olympic National Park World Heritage Site
- San Juan Islands, Puget Sound, and Deception Pass
- Kayak and paddleboard protected bays and channels
- Skiff ride the coves, bays, and islands of San Juan
- Hike Hurricane Ridge, Mount Constitution, and rainforests
- Whale, orca, seal, and dolphin watching
- Incredible birdlife
- Small boat, small groups, small footprint
For more, check out all of our Alaska and Pacific Northwest cruises.
Itinerary
Day 1: Seattle, Washington
Day 2: Salish Sea & Deception Pass
Day 3: Lopez & San Juan Island
Day 4: Stuart Island Park
Day 5: Orcas Island & Mt Constitution
Day 6: Sucia Island
Day 7: Olympic National Park
Day 8: SeattleThe planned itinerary is subject to change due to nautical, technical, or meteorological reasons and other unforeseen circumstances. The captain reserves the right to change the route in view of your safety, even with no advance notice.
Day 1: Seattle, Washington
Seattle was founded along the shores of Elliott Bay and is a unique city especially tuned to adventure. Today, you will set sail via picturesque Shilshole Bay and cruise along the city’s shoreline before dropping anchor in a tucked-away cove. (D)Day 2: Salish Sea & Deception Pass
Mudflats, watersheds, and a microclimate feed the riches of this wilderness. Explore the intertidal zone by kicking in the mud with your guides looking for anemone and hermit crabs. Kayaking, hiking, and skiff rides are on tap, too—in one of the region's many state parks. If the current and tides allow, sail through Deception Pass. Cap off your first full day of play watching for Dall’s porpoise, with a front-row view from the bow. (BLD)Day 3: Lopez & San Juan Island
You’ve landed in one of the most scenic areas of the Salish Sea. The rocky outcroppings on the many islands play host to harbor seals - and it’s also orca territory. When kayaking, keep your eyes peeled above and below the surface. Go on an intertidal nature walk, hike through the forest to hidden lakes, or “take the high road” on trails that lead to ridges overlooking the islands. Join your expedition team on deck searching for whales, seals, and sea lions as you cruise through the myriad San Juans - no two islands are the same. (BLD)Day 4: Stuart Island Park
A day filled with adventure begins in at Stuart Island Park. Hikers head up to higher ground to see the Turn Point Light Station or walk the shoreline looking for tidepools. Or hop in a kayak with a cabin mate or newfound friend and explore the wildlife of the coast from the water. Take a skiff tour for great photo opportunities. (BLD)Day 5: Orcas Island & Mt Constitution
Zig-zagging through the islands, your Captain navigates to your base camp at Orcas Island for a day of fun and outdoor activities, where the options are endless. You can choose to hike Mt. Constitution, a firm favourite amongst guests. It's the highest peak in the San Juan Islands (2,409 feet high) and has an incredible view of the archipelago. If you're interested in skiff exploration or more paddling, the kayaks and paddle boards are ready to take you exploring. (BLD)Day 6: Sucia Island
With no paved roads or even ferry access, your day on picturesque Sucia Island will be a highlight. This Washington State Marine Park filled with hidden coves and bays boasts a year-round population of four! You feel a million miles away from it all, exploring the intertidal zone with your guides, hiking across the island, and kayaking in a protected bay. Weather permitting, there’s even a barbeque ashore. (BLD)Day 7: Olympic National Park
Today features Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by rainforest, old-growth forest, and top-of-the-world 360-degree views. Your trek at Hurricane Ridge takes you across fields of sub-alpine flowers in warmer weather and snow-covered hills in the colder months. On a clear day, you can see Canada across to the Straits of Juan de Fuca. This evening will wrap it all up with a farewell dinner and slide show highlighting your week’s adventures. (BLD)Day 8: Seattle
This morning, you will cruise into Seattle via Shilshole Bay. After breakfast, the Captain and crew bid you a fond farewell. Safe travels to all! (B)Be sure to check out our hiking and walking tours, or look at our small boat cruises, specials, and news.
Map
Boats
- Safari Quest
Premium Class Yacht
Pegged as a small boutique yacht, Safari Quest accesses far-flung places, off-limits to bigger boats. Carrying only 22-passengers, spaces are sophisticated, yet cozy, with modern conveniences. The generous lounge and dining area, snug library, comfy cabins, and sun lounge with hot tub give decent space for you to retreat to a nook or to socialize. Read More
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodation for 7 nights in selected cabin
- Onboard meals
- Onboard spirits, wine, beer, & non-alcoholic beverages
- Transfers & baggage handling between airport/vessel
- Entry fees to parks/preserves
- All from-the-vessel activities & equipment
- Expedition/heritage guides & guest experts
- Wellness amenities: hot tub & yoga mats
What’s Not Included
- Travel to/from the start/finish
- Excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
- Port taxes/fees
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
April 7, 14, 21 & 28, May 5 & 12, September 15, 22, & 29, and October 6, 13 & 20, 2023
April 5, 12, 19 & 26, May 3 & 10, September 13, 20, & 27, and October 4, 11, 18 & 25, 2024
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
Friday departures
Season 1: April & May, 2023
Season 2: September & October 6 & 13, 2023
Season 3: October 20, 2023Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Navigator cabin $ 8520 £ 4644 $ 7,818 € 5255 ₪ 20275 ¥ 747465 NZ$ 9107 NOK 59099 kr 58758 $ 5,600 $ 9281 £ 5058 $ 8,516 € 5724 ₪ 22085 ¥ 814203 NZ$ 9920 NOK 64376 kr 64005 $ 6,100 $ 8672 £ 4727 $ 7,957 € 5349 ₪ 20637 ¥ 760813 NZ$ 9270 NOK 60154 kr 59808 $ 5,700 Commander cabin $ 10346 £ 5639 $ 9,493 € 6381 ₪ 24620 ¥ 907636 NZ$ 11059 NOK 71763 kr 71349 $ 6,800 $ 11411 £ 6219 $ 10,470 € 7038 ₪ 27154 ¥ 1001069 NZ$ 12197 NOK 79150 kr 78694 $ 7,500 $ 10650 £ 5805 $ 9,772 € 6569 ₪ 25344 ¥ 934331 NZ$ 11384 NOK 73874 kr 73448 $ 7,000 Captain cabin $ 11563 £ 6302 $ 10,610 € 7132 ₪ 27516 ¥ 1014417 NZ$ 12360 NOK 80206 kr 79744 $ 7,600 $ 12628 £ 6883 $ 11,587 € 7789 ₪ 30051 ¥ 1107850 NZ$ 13498 NOK 87593 kr 87088 $ 8,300 $ 11867 £ 6468 $ 10,889 € 7320 ₪ 28240 ¥ 1041112 NZ$ 12685 NOK 82316 kr 81842 $ 7,800 Single cabin $ 9433 £ 5141 $ 8,655 € 5818 ₪ 22447 ¥ 827551 NZ$ 10083 NOK 65431 kr 65054 $ 6,200 $ 13997 £ 7629 $ 12,843 € 8634 ₪ 33309 ¥ 1227978 NZ$ 14962 NOK 97091 kr 96532 $ 9,200 $ 13084 £ 7132 $ 12,006 € 8071 ₪ 31137 ¥ 1147893 NZ$ 13986 NOK 90759 kr 90236 $ 8,600 Charter On request On request On request Port fees/taxes (add to above price) $ 571 £ 311 $ 524 € 352 ₪ 1358 ¥ 50053 NZ$ 610 NOK 3958 kr 3935 $ 375 $ 571 £ 311 $ 524 € 352 ₪ 1358 ¥ 50053 NZ$ 610 NOK 3958 kr 3935 $ 375 $ 571 £ 311 $ 524 € 352 ₪ 1358 ¥ 50053 NZ$ 610 NOK 3958 kr 3935 $ 375 Friday departures
Season 1: April 5, 12 & 19, 2024
Season 2: May 3 & 10, September, October 11 & 18, 2024
Season 3: October 25, 2024Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Navigator cabin $ 8672 £ 4727 $ 7,957 € 5349 ₪ 20637 ¥ 760813 NZ$ 9270 NOK 60154 kr 59808 $ 5,700 $ 9281 £ 5058 $ 8,516 € 5724 ₪ 22085 ¥ 814203 NZ$ 9920 NOK 64376 kr 64005 $ 6,100 $ 8672 £ 4727 $ 7,957 € 5349 ₪ 20637 ¥ 760813 NZ$ 9270 NOK 60154 kr 59808 $ 5,700 Commander cabin $ 10650 £ 5805 $ 9,772 € 6569 ₪ 25344 ¥ 934331 NZ$ 11384 NOK 73874 kr 73448 $ 7,000 $ 11411 £ 6219 $ 10,470 € 7038 ₪ 27154 ¥ 1001069 NZ$ 12197 NOK 79150 kr 78694 $ 7,500 $ 10650 £ 5805 $ 9,772 € 6569 ₪ 25344 ¥ 934331 NZ$ 11384 NOK 73874 kr 73448 $ 7,000 Captain cabin $ 11867 £ 6468 $ 10,889 € 7320 ₪ 28240 ¥ 1041112 NZ$ 12685 NOK 82316 kr 81842 $ 7,800 $ 12628 £ 6883 $ 11,587 € 7789 ₪ 30051 ¥ 1107850 NZ$ 13498 NOK 87593 kr 87088 $ 8,300 $ 11867 £ 6468 $ 10,889 € 7320 ₪ 28240 ¥ 1041112 NZ$ 12685 NOK 82316 kr 81842 $ 7,800 Single cabin $ 13084 £ 7132 $ 12,006 € 8071 ₪ 31137 ¥ 1147893 NZ$ 13986 NOK 90759 kr 90236 $ 8,600 $ 13997 £ 7629 $ 12,843 € 8634 ₪ 33309 ¥ 1227978 NZ$ 14962 NOK 97091 kr 96532 $ 9,200 $ 13084 £ 7132 $ 12,006 € 8071 ₪ 31137 ¥ 1147893 NZ$ 13986 NOK 90759 kr 90236 $ 8,600 Charter On request On request On request Port fees/taxes (add to above price) $ 571 £ 311 $ 524 € 352 ₪ 1358 ¥ 50053 NZ$ 610 NOK 3958 kr 3935 $ 375 $ 571 £ 311 $ 524 € 352 ₪ 1358 ¥ 50053 NZ$ 610 NOK 3958 kr 3935 $ 375 $ 571 £ 311 $ 524 € 352 ₪ 1358 ¥ 50053 NZ$ 610 NOK 3958 kr 3935 $ 375 A 25% deposit based on the cabin price is required at booking.
Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy
The cruise has been designed to accommodate a variety of fitness levels. Whether you are looking to take it easy or are up for a challenge, there is something for everyone. Unless the boat is cruising part of the day, there are active adventure options scheduled most mornings and afternoons. Your onboard guides will advise what activities are offered daily and will work to include everyone. Kayaking excursions take the form of guided paddles that can last 1-4 hours and open paddling is at your own pace. Hiking ranges from rigorous treks over rugged terrain for the fit to easy strolls along the beach. Inflatable skiff rides require you to sit back and relax, with little to no effort needed. Paddleboarding and snorkeling (if offered) are at your own pace. Morning yoga classes cater to all levels and relaxing in the hot tub is as for well everyone.
Airport Info
Fly into/out Seattle International Airport (SEA).
On embarkation day (Day 1) your flight into Seattle should arrive no later than 2:00 pm.
On disembarkation day (Day 8) your flight from Seattle should leave no earlier than 12:00 pm.Local Travel
Transfers to/from Seattle Airport is included in the tour price.
Day of Rest
Any day can be a day of rest!
Recommended
Charters
If you have a large group and would like to charter an entire boat, please contact us for available dates and boats. In addition to the scheduled dates listed (please see pricing), further dates may be available on request. All dates are subject to availability at the time of booking. Itineraries can be customized to suit your individual needs and as safety and operational constraints allow. Please send us your preferred destination, dates, boat, and the number of people (adults and children under 13) in your party, and we will work on providing you with the best available options! The relevant charter terms and conditions will apply.Remarks
A variety of activities are included in this tour.
Hiking:
A range of hikes - of varying difficulty and terrain - are available throughout your tour. Walk through the old-growth forest in state parks along Deception Pass or in South Puget Sound. Alternatively, follow a deer path across a wild island or hike across fields of flowers in warmer weather, as you look up at snow-covered hills at any time. The trek to a peak may offer panoramic views of the San Juan Archipelago far below you. A good pair of hiking boots is recommended. Hiking poles are available.
Kayaking and paddleboarding:
The small ship is stocked with paddleboards and tandem sea kayaks. Open paddle at your own pace or join a short guided paddle to a planned destination lasting one to four hours. The San Juan Islands are filled with hidden coves and beautiful bays filled with saline. Investigate a bird rockery or follow the edge of a rocky cliff, peering through the emerald waters for sea stars and anemones. It is a great way to get up close to wildlife and explore the area.
Skiff rides:
Take a small inflatable boat ride and discover the surrounding area. Your skiff captains are pros and offer insights into the history, geology, and ecology of the islands as they show you cormorants gathered on rocky outcroppings, or perhaps a whale or orca sighting. Nighttime excursions are lit by the glow of bioluminescence in the water below as well as by the stars above. Minimal effort is required.
Beachcoming:
Explore one of the many tidal pools and beaches on foot. Seaweeds and kelp are foundational parts of the food chain that attract myriad marine life to this region. Shallow tidal areas are colored with pink, purple, and orange starfish. Tiny maroon crabs scuttle under rocks at your approach. Your expedition guide may initiate you into the mysterious lives of the sea urchin and the gumboot chiton.
Wildlife watching:
On the bow, keep your eyes open and binoculars handy so you’re ready to spot Dall’s porpoises, bald eagles, or sea lions. Photographing orcas or harbor seals can be a highlight of your trip. In the woods, look for black-tailed deer, red fox, and pileated woodpeckers. On rocky heights, you might see a mountain goat or an Olympic marmot.
No scuba diving is available on this itinerary.Important to know
Travel Documents
It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, visa requirements, and acquisition, blank passport pages required for your destination (s), etc.
For US citizens, documents for travel within the Pacific Northwest are the same for any other U.S. state. If you are flying to Alaska within the United States, you only need a valid government photo ID. A list of accepted forms of ID can be found on the TSA website.
For Non-U.S. citizens a passport is required. Please research documentation and visas needed to enter the United States of America.
Covid-19 Info
Country Entry Requirements
Due to the changing requirements for entry, it is imperative that you stay up to date on requirements set by the country/countries that you are visiting. Please visit our Travel Restrictions Tool page and the country/countries government webpage for this information.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by UnCruise Adventures.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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