Email to request a sailing. More sailings available than are listed on the calendar.
Daysailing and whale and wildlife charters
Guiding Star Adventures
Day sailing from San Juan island puts you at the heart of the Emerald Sea. You’ll have the opportunity to delve deep into learning about our special ecosystem, and also relax and just soak it in. Sailing from Friday Harbor, we can choose many courses and we will tailor your trip to your interests. Maybe you are into hiking the outer islands like Sucia, Matia, and Patos, or something closer like Yellow Island. If Whales and Wildlife tours are your thing, we can do that too. Alan and crew has a passion for sharing experience and knowledge, as seasoned sailors and naturalist guides Guiding Star Adventures has the background to make your sailing tour of the San Juan islands a magical memory.
Our lovely ship S/V Makani is a solid proven sailing platform, perfect for everything from day sailing to week long adventures. Her varied sail inventory, strong engine, large cockpit, warm heater, complete galley for hot drinks and snacks or even a gourmet meal at sea, makes her a super comfortable way to spend a few hours or a few days on the water.
Captain Alan has explored the Salish Sea by sail and by SCUBA diving since the early '90's. He has also sailed most of the west coast from Juneau Alaska to Costa Rica. Alan's first career was as a professional photographer. Combining his love for the islands with an artistic side and adding a large amount of curiosity has made Alan into the knowledgable naturalist he is today.
Captain and Naturalist
Captain, Photographer, Marine Naturalist
Captain Alan holds a USCG 50 ton Master License and has been guiding tours in the San Juan islands since 2014. Hundreds of 5 star trip advisor reviews speak to his warm personable style as well as ability to deliver a great tour on the water.
Captain Alan shares his knowledge and enthusiasm for the island ecosystem helping guests gain understanding and insights for our gem of the northwest, the “Emerald Sea”.
We love to sail and transport you upon the wind to discover the bounty of wildlife the San Juan and Gulf Islands have to offer. Join one of our shared group sails or book a private skippered charter aboard one of our sailing yachts for a bucket list adventure of a lifetime.
72 hr
4,800 US dollars
4 hr
200 US dollars
4 hr
Starting at $695
8 hr
995 US dollars
4 hr
200 US dollars
4 hr
725 US dollars
8 hr
300 US dollars
2 hr
500 US dollars
Your Island Adventures Begins With A SKIPPERED CHARTER FROM FRIDAY HARBOR
Make the most of your San Juan Island vacation with a Skippered Charter from Friday Harbor. If you have ever dreamed of sailing, this is the time and place to make a wish up on a star and make dreams come true with Guiding Star Adventures Skippered Sailing Charter. Our Daysailing Tours around the islands will introduce you to not only beautiful views, and the relaxing sounds of the wind and sea, but Captain Alan will bring you to the most fascinating wildlife hot spots. We will look for seals, and sea lions, porpoises, sea birds that dive as deep as a whale and yes… Whales! We can see Killer Whales, Humpback Whales, Minke Whales and Grey Whales potentially on any given trip if they are near, and because Alan is connected to all the sighting networks he will know where they’ve been seen. Feel the pull of the wind and the salt in the air as you steer towards a horizon filled with possibilities. It’s an ideal way to spend a day, whether you;re celebrating a birthday or anniversary or you just need a quiet day on the water to relax.
Meet the Oceans Charismatic Creatures on Marine Wildlife Tours
Our marine wildlife tours bring you where the action is. And our all Star crew is knowledgeable about all the wildlife in The Salish Sea, including the biggest animals like Orca, and other whales, on down to Sea Stars and cool intertidal critters you may see when tide pooling. Our expert guides make sure you’re safe and have fun. You’ll learn lots and feel closer to the ocean. John Muir was famous for saying, “We protect what we Love” and we love what we understand. Each tour is a unique opportunity to understand marine life, with guides sharing stories and facts about the ecosystems and behaviors of the animals you encounter. These tours are not just educational; they are a call to the wild that resonates with young and old alike, perfect for those interested in whale & wildlife watching.
Discover Sucia Island or other marine parks with a Special Sailing Charter
Ever wanted to camp under the stars on a quiet island? The marine state parks around San Juan Island are the perfect spots, and our sailing charter makes it accessible. You can only get there by boat, which makes it peaceful and special. It has wild landscapes and clean beaches. Explore hidden coves, find ancient fossils, and watch the sunset paint the clear sky from the comfort of our trusted sailboats. It’s an adventure that connects you deeply with the outdoors, combining camping, hiking and exploring, with the joy of sailing.
Navigate the Waters with Skippered Charters Around San Juan Island What’s special about sailing with us? Captain Alan and our crew, make sure you have a great time on our skippered charters on San Juan Island. Want a quiet dinner cruise? Or maybe see historic lighthouses during our lighthouse tours? We make it happen. Our sailing cruise offers a serene setting where you’re not just passengers but part of a seafaring family. Customize your itinerary, choose special stops, or celebrate an event—we’re here to make your sea journey unforgettable.
Are you ready to set sail with sailing charters and discover the beautiful San Juan Islands? Every trip we do is planned to make sure you have a great time. Join us to explore the San Juan and Gulf Islands. Each wave and breeze brings new surprises and stories, making every trip with us a chapter in your own book of adventures.
Guiding Star Adventures
If you would like to find out more information about my organized or private tours, please be in touch and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.