Half Day Sail Orcas Island

Sailing around Orcas Island offers a unique opportunity to take in the maritime heritage of the Pacific Northwest. This half-day sail experience, guided by a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain, provides a hands-on learning adventure. Participants can expect to gain insight into essential sailing terminology and navigation skills while actively steering the vessel through scenic Obstruction Pass. With a maximum group size of six, this private lesson ensures personalized attention and the chance to create lasting memories on the water.

Key Points

• Experience a three-hour sailing tour led by a US Coast Guard-licensed captain around Orcas Island, Washington.
• Receive hands-on instruction on sailing terminology, navigation, and actively guide the vessel through Obstruction Pass.
• Private tour for groups of up to six people, with an opportunity to take turns handling the controls and sails.
• Suitable for most travelers, but not wheelchair accessible; infants must sit on laps during the tour.
• Booking is a non-refundable fee of $680 per group, and no refunds are provided for cancellations.

About the Activity

The Half Day Sail Orcas Island activity offers a three-hour sailing experience led by a US Coast Guard-licensed captain/instructor.

Participants will learn sailing terminology and navigation while having the opportunity to guide the vessel through Obstruction Pass.

This private lesson is available for groups of up to six people, allowing for a personalized and hands-on approach.

The activity takes place at a small marina, with the meeting point located at 1945 Obstruction Pass Rd, Olga, WA 98279, USA.

The sailing experience ends back at the initial meeting point.

Sailing Terminology and Navigation

As part of the Half Day Sail Orcas Island experience, participants have the opportunity to learn sailing terminology and navigation techniques from the US Coast Guard-licensed captain.

The captain provides hands-on instruction, covering:

• Identifying and understanding the function of key sailing parts, such as the mast, boom, and sails
• Interpreting wind direction and its impact on sailing
• Reading nautical charts and identifying navigational markers
• Using the compass and instruments to plot the vessel’s course
• Practicing basic maneuvers like tacking and jibing to direct the boat’s movement

This knowledge equips participants to actively guide the vessel through Obstruction Pass during the sailing adventure.

Hands-on Sailing Experience

During the Half Day Sail Orcas Island experience, participants are provided the opportunity to actively guide the vessel through Obstruction Pass.

Under the instruction of the US Coast Guard-licensed captain, guests take turns handling the controls and sails, learning how to navigate the waterways. This hands-on component allows participants to apply the sailing terminology and navigation principles discussed earlier in the session.

The private tour setting ensures a focused, personalized experience tailored to the group’s interests and skill levels. Guests leave with a greater appreciation for the art of sailing and a newfound sense of accomplishment from their direct involvement in steering the boat.

Pricing and Booking

The price for the Half Day Sail Orcas Island experience is $680.00 per group, which can accommodate up to six participants.

This non-refundable fee covers the three-hour sailing tour, during which participants learn sailing terminology and navigation from a US Coast Guard-licensed captain/instructor.

Booking confirmation is received at the time of purchase, and there are no refunds for cancellations.

• $680.00 per group (up to 6 participants)
• Non-refundable fee
• Confirmation received at booking
• No refunds for cancellations
• Private tour for your group

Meeting Location

The meeting point for the Half Day Sail Orcas Island experience is 1945 Obstruction Pass Rd, Olga, WA 98279, USA.

Participants should meet the captain down at the small marina. The activity starts and ends at this location. Guests should look for the captain and their group’s boat upon arrival.

The sailing experience takes place on the water, navigating through Obstruction Pass.

After the three-hour tour, you will return to the original meeting point at the end of the excursion.

Participant Guidelines

The Half Day Sail Orcas Island experience is not wheelchair accessible.

However, service animals are allowed to accompany participants. Infants must sit on laps during the three-hour sailing tour.

Despite these limitations, the private tour is suitable for most travelers, catering to groups of up to six individuals.

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Infants must sit on laps
• Private tour for groups up to 6 people
• Most travelers can participate

Reviews and Ratings

Reviews and ratings for the Half Day Sail Orcas Island experience are overwhelmingly positive. The 12 reviews give the activity a 5.0 out of 5.0 rating, with 100% of travelers recommending the experience. Positive feedback highlights the accommodating instruction and excellent communication from the US Coast Guard-licensed captain/instructor. The experience offers a engaging mix of hands-on sailing and informative lessons on sailing terminology and navigation.

Ratings	Number of Reviews
5 stars	12
4 stars	0
3 stars	0
2 stars	0
1 star	0

What to Expect

Although the Half Day Sail Orcas Island experience is a private tour for groups of up to six people, participants can expect an engaging and hands-on sailing adventure led by an experienced US Coast Guard-licensed captain/instructor.

The activity allows for:

• Learning sailing terminology and navigation
• Guiding the vessel through Obstruction Pass
• Enjoying scenic views of the Orcas Island coastline
• Participating in the sailing process with the guidance of the captain
• A 3-hour sail departing from and returning to the meeting point at the small marina.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Sailing Experience?

The maximum group size for this sailing experience is 6 people. The activity is offered as a private tour for groups of up to 6 participants.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There is no specified minimum age requirement. The activity is private, allowing groups of up to 6 people, including infants who must sit on laps during the sailing experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Participants are generally permitted to bring their own food and drinks on the boat, though it is recommended to check with the operator beforehand. Some providers may have restrictions or recommendations regarding bringing outside items.

What Safety Equipment Is Provided for the Sailing Activity?

The sailing activity provides all necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, in compliance with US Coast Guard regulations. The experienced captain ensures participants’ safety throughout the sailing experience.

How Experienced Do I Need to Be in Sailing to Participate?

No prior sailing experience is required to participate. The experienced, US Coast Guard-licensed captain/instructor provides sailing terminology and navigation training throughout the three-hour sailing activity, allowing hands-on experience for beginners and more experienced sailors alike.

The Sum Up

The Half Day Sail around Orcas Island provides an exhilarating hands-on experience for groups of up to six. Guided by a US Coast Guard-licensed captain, participants learn essential sailing skills and terminology while actively navigating the vessel through Obstruction Pass. With breathtaking views of the island, this private lesson offers a unique opportunity to create unforgettable memories on the water.