By Mike, CEO and Captain at Roam Yacht Charters
After seven years of running Roam Yacht Charters and over a decade as a captain navigating the pristine waters of Puget Sound, I can confidently say there’s no place on earth quite like the San Juan Islands. What started as my personal passion for sharing the breathtaking beauty of these Pacific Northwest waters has evolved into something much more meaningful – helping families and adventurers discover what I believe is truly America’s hidden gem.
Why the San Juan Islands Are the Ultimate Yacht Charter Destination
When people ask me how I balance running my successful Forchetta Pasta Company in Seattle and Bala Yoga in Kirkland alongside Roam Yacht Charters, the answer is simple – my passion for these waters energizes everything else I do. The San Juan Islands offer an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and serene waters that transform every guest who experiences them. After guiding hundreds of charters through these islands, I’ve watched families reconnect, couples fall in love all over again, and adventure seekers find the peace they didn’t even know they were searching for.
The San Juan archipelago consists of over 400 islands and rocks, with only a handful accessible by ferry. This creates an exclusive, almost private paradise that can only be truly explored by yacht. From our base, we offer 2 to 10-day charters throughout the San Juan Islands and even venture north to the remote beauty of Desolation Sound, providing access to waters and experiences that simply cannot be reached any other way.
Roam Yacht Charters: Your Gateway to Island Paradise
Our fleet consists of luxury yachts ranging from 50 to 90 feet, each meticulously maintained and equipped with everything needed for an unforgettable island-hopping adventure. What sets Roam apart isn’t just our vessels – it’s our commitment to creating personalized experiences that cater to each client’s specific needs and dreams.
Every charter includes our experienced crew who know these waters like the back of their hands. We provide paddle boards for exploring hidden coves, a dinghy for beach access and crabbing expeditions, and can arrange gourmet meals that rival the finest restaurants. But beyond the amenities, what our guests remember most is our intimate knowledge of the islands and our dedication to sharing the secret spots that most visitors never discover.
Must-Visit Destinations: A Captain’s Personal Recommendations
Sucia Island: The Crown Jewel
If I had to choose one destination that perfectly encapsulates the magic of the San Juan Islands, it would be Sucia Island. This remote gem offers dramatic sandstone formations, secluded beaches, and some of the most pristine hiking trails in the archipelago. The island’s protected waters provide excellent anchorage, and the sunset views from Sucia’s western shore are simply unforgettable.
Roche Harbor: Historic Elegance Meets Culinary Excellence
Roche Harbor on San Juan Island represents the perfect blend of maritime history and modern luxury. The historic Hotel de Haro, dating back to 1886, provides a glimpse into the islands’ rich past, while the full-service marina offers all the amenities modern yachters expect. The harbor’s evening flag ceremony is a tradition that never fails to move our guests, and the nearby sculpture park provides hours of exploration.
But here’s what I tell every guest: you simply must experience dinner at McMillin’s Dining Room. They serve what I genuinely believe is Washington State’s best prime rib – so exceptional that many of our charter guests plan return trips to the islands specifically to enjoy it again. The restaurant’s historic setting, combined with their commitment to culinary excellence, creates an evening that perfectly captures the sophistication and charm of the San Juan Islands. I’ve had countless guests tell me they’ve never forgotten that meal, and honestly, neither have I.
Westcott Bay: A Sculptor’s Paradise on the Water
One of my favorite lesser-known destinations is Westcott Bay on San Juan Island, home to the extraordinary Westcott Bay Sculpture Park. This 19-acre outdoor museum features works by renowned artists set against the backdrop of pristine bay waters and Olympic Mountain views. The sculpture park offers a unique cultural experience that beautifully complements the natural beauty of the islands. Our dinghy provides easy access to the shoreline, allowing guests to explore the trails and discover how art and nature create something truly magical together. The bay itself offers excellent protection and stunning sunset views, making it an ideal anchorage for those seeking both cultural enrichment and natural beauty.
Reid Harbor and Lopez Island: Tranquil Escapes
For those seeking ultimate tranquility, Reid Harbor offers protected waters surrounded by old-growth forests. The peaceful anchorage provides the perfect setting for morning coffee on deck while eagles soar overhead. Nearby Lopez Island, with its rolling hills and friendly island culture, offers excellent cycling opportunities and farm-to-table dining experiences.
Mount Constitution on Orcas Island: Views Worth the Journey
No San Juan Islands charter is complete without ascending Mount Constitution, the highest point in the archipelago. The panoramic views from the stone tower encompass the entire region, from the Olympic Mountains to the Cascade Range, providing guests with a perspective that helps them truly appreciate the scale and beauty of this maritime wonderland.
Peak Season Magic: June Through September
The San Juan Islands truly come alive during our peak charter season from June through September. This is when the Pacific Northwest shows its absolute best face – warm, dry days with gentle winds perfect for sailing, and long daylight hours that stretch magical sunsets well into the evening.
Wildlife Encounters That Leave Lasting Memories
During these summer months, the islands become a wildlife sanctuary unlike anywhere else on the planet. Orca whales, including the famous Southern Resident pods, frequent these waters, often coming close enough to the yacht that guests can hear their distinctive calls. Bald eagles nest throughout the islands, and it’s not uncommon to spot them fishing just yards from our anchorage.
The waters teem with salmon, halibut, and Dungeness crab, making fishing and crabbing not just recreational activities but opportunities to source the freshest possible ingredients for onboard meals. Some of my most treasured charter memories involve guests pulling fresh shrimp from the waters off Shaw Island, then enjoying them grilled on deck as the sun sets over the Olympic Mountains.
Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
After a decade of exploring these waters, I’ve discovered countless hidden gems that most charter services never share with their guests. Secret coves where seals haul out on warm rocks, tiny beaches accessible only by dinghy where guests can beachcomb for perfect shells, and protected waters where the fishing is always excellent.
One of my favorite traditions is the Shaw Island shrimp expedition. Few people know that some of the best spot prawning in the Pacific Northwest happens in the deep waters off Shaw Island. We’ll set traps at sunset and pull them the next morning, often yielding enough fresh prawns for a feast that guests remember for years.
The crabbing around the islands is equally spectacular. Using our dinghy to set crab pots in the shallow bays provides both adventure and incredible meals. There’s something deeply satisfying about catching your own Dungeness crab and enjoying them steamed on deck with a glass of local wine as eagles circle overhead.
Crafting Your Perfect Charter Experience
What truly distinguishes Roam Yacht Charters is our philosophy of customization. No two charters are identical because no two groups of guests have identical dreams. Some clients want action-packed adventures filled with hiking, fishing, and water sports. Others seek peaceful anchorages where they can disconnect from the world and reconnect with each other.
Our advanced knowledge of the islands allows us to adapt to weather, tides, and guest preferences in real-time. If the weather turns rough in the main channels, we know protected anchorages where guests can enjoy calm waters and beautiful surroundings. If guests fall in love with a particular island, we can extend stays and modify itineraries to maximize their enjoyment.
This flexibility extends to dining as well. We can arrange everything from casual beach barbecues to elegant multi-course meals prepared by professional chefs. Local ingredients like fresh seafood, island-grown vegetables, and regional wines create dining experiences that perfectly complement the natural beauty surrounding us.
Multi-Day Adventures: From San Juan Islands to Desolation Sound
Our longer charters open up even more spectacular destinations. Seven to ten-day adventures allow us to venture north into Canadian waters and the legendary Desolation Sound, often called the “Sailing Capital of the World.” This pristine wilderness area offers warm, calm waters surrounded by towering mountains and ancient forests.
These extended charters provide the time needed to truly immerse guests in the Pacific Northwest marine environment. We can explore dozens of islands, each with its own character and attractions. Guests develop sea legs and maritime rhythms, waking to the gentle motion of the yacht and falling asleep to the sound of water lapping against the hull.
Planning Your San Juan Islands Charter Adventure
Booking your charter adventure begins at roamcharters.com, where you can explore our fleet, review charter options, and begin planning your customized itinerary. Our peak season fills quickly, so I always recommend booking well in advance, especially for July and August charters.
During our initial consultation, we’ll discuss your group’s interests, experience level, and dreams for the charter. This conversation forms the foundation of your personalized itinerary, ensuring that every day on the water exceeds your expectations.
Why Choose Roam Yacht Charters
The yacht charter industry offers many options, but few operators can match our combination of local expertise, personalized service, and genuine passion for these waters. My crew and I don’t just work in the San Juan Islands – we live and breathe them. This intimate knowledge translates into experiences that guests simply cannot find elsewhere.
Our commitment to excellence extends beyond just showing guests beautiful places. We’re educators, sharing the natural and cultural history of the islands. We’re adventure guides, leading guests to experiences they never imagined possible. Most importantly, we’re passionate advocates for these waters, helping guests understand why the San Juan Islands deserve protection and respect.
The Roam Difference: More Than Just a Charter
When guests step aboard a Roam yacht, they’re not just booking transportation – they’re investing in an experience that often becomes the highlight of their year, if not their lifetime. We’ve hosted anniversary celebrations, family reunions, corporate retreats, and bucket-list adventures. Each charter teaches us something new about the power of these waters to create lasting memories and strengthen relationships.
The San Juan Islands have given me so much over the years – a successful business, countless friendships, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Through Roam Yacht Charters, I have the privilege of sharing these gifts with others, watching as first-time visitors fall in love with what I’ve always known to be America’s hidden gem.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, wildlife encounters or cultural experiences, gourmet dining or simple pleasures, the San Juan Islands offer it all. And with Roam Yacht Charters as your guide, you’ll discover not just the beauty of these remarkable islands, but the magic that happens when passionate experts share their favorite places with fellow adventurers.
Contact us at roamcharters.com to begin planning your San Juan Islands charter adventure. The islands are waiting, and I can’t wait to share them with you.