Any skipper who has ever sailed the Pacific Northwest knows that there are a myriad of islands, anchorages and marinas to explore in the protected waters of Puget Sound and all points north along the Salish Sea. Compared to the exposed shoreline of Washington State, Oregon and California, the Pacific Northwest is a sailors’ paradise. There are no swells to contend with, no offshore fog rolling in without notice to obscure everything, and blissful summer weather to ensure even non-sailing friends can enjoy the experience.
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Bert, this is exactly the guidance I’ve been waiting for! After many trips around the San Juans and the Canadian Gulf Islands with a 30′ Pearson 303, I’ve known the Barkley Sound is the next step. But yours is the first article that gives clear advice on how and when to make the journey. I (and probably other readers) would love to learn what conditions we’re likely to experience if we attempt the trip in May/June or August/September? Many thanks, Philip, Cap Sante (Anacortes).
Hello Philip! Thanks for the comment, it’s nice to see the article is of interest to readers. This is the first in a series exploring the west coast of Vancouver Island up to the Brooks Peninsula. My preference has always been May/June & July for the winds and blue sky. August (locals call it Fogust, for a reason) and September generally have a lack of good winds and the days get shorter. If you’re interested in the video version search You Tube for “Sailing Natasha”. Once found, click on my image at the top left hand corner of the screen and the system will display all my videos, including the west coast in 2025. Enjoy.
Great article, thanks for sharing. I have watched all your videos and enjoyed them immensely. I am hoping to get to go up this coming season. I have kayaked all over Barkley Sound for many years and can’t wait to get back on my own boat with my kayak!
Hello Jason. Thank you for the kind comments on the article and my videos. This article is the first in a series on sailing the west coast of Vancouver Island all the way up to the Brooks Peninsula. We were very fortunate in 2025 with the weather and enjoyed a terrific adventure after trying to reach Columbia Cove in past years and being thwarted by northwesterly winds. The best of fortune to you and yours in getting out there again.