Seattle → Blake Island → Gig Harbor → Tacoma → Seattle
This route takes you into the heart of the South Sound, transitioning from the rugged, forested shores of a marine state park to the historic brick-and-glass waterfront of Tacoma. It is a fantastic trip for those who love Northwest history, mountain views, and quiet harbor sunrises.
Day 1 — Seattle → Blake Island State Park (~8 NM)
A quick traverse of the main channel leads you to this island escape, accessible only by boat. On a clear day, the views of the Seattle skyline and Mount Rainier from the shoreline are unmatched.
- Stay: Blake Island Marina or mooring buoys. The marina is very tight; boats over 35’ should plan to use the mooring balls in the north or west coves and dinghy ashore.
- Activity: Explore the 5 miles of pristine beaches and 8 miles of hiking trails. Look for the island’s famous (and very bold) deer and raccoons.
- Tip: Blake Island is a "pack-it-in, pack-it-out" park. There are no grocery services on the island, so ensure your galley is fully stocked before leaving the Windworks base.
Day 2 — Blake Island → Gig Harbor (~18 NM)
Navigate south through the East Passage, keeping the Vashon Island shoreline to your starboard. The entrance to Gig Harbor is narrow and hidden—watch for the lighthouse at the sandspit to find the opening.
- Stay: Arabella’s Landing or the Gig Harbor City Dock. Both put you in the center of the historic downtown.
- Activity: Wander the boutique shops along the harbor rim or visit the Skansie Brothers Park. The harbor is incredibly calm, making it one of the best spots in the Sound for a morning paddleboard or kayak session.
- Tip: The harbor is "no-wake" and very densely populated with boats; keep your speed at a crawl and enjoy the view of the historic fishing fleet.
Day 3 — Gig Harbor → Tacoma / Foss Waterway (~8 NM)
A short hop across the mouth of the Narrows and past Point Defiance brings you into the Thea Foss Waterway, a rejuvenated industrial channel that is now a world-class cultural hub.
- Stay: Foss Harbor Marina or Dock Street Marina. Both are located right along the waterfront esplanade.
- Activity: This is a museum-lover’s paradise. Walk to the Museum of Glass (don't miss the Chihuly Bridge of Glass), the Washington State History Museum, or the Tacoma Art Museum. For car enthusiasts, the LeMay America’s Car Museum is a short Uber ride away.
- Tip: If you have an extra half-day, take a ride to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium; it is one of the most highly-rated zoos in the country and sits on a massive, beautiful park.
Day 4 — Tacoma → Seattle (~32 NM)
The "Big Reach" home. This long northbound leg takes you back up the East Passage.
- Route: Keep Vashon Island to your left. If the wind is from the north, be prepared for a day of tactical tacking; if it's from the south, enjoy a fast, following sea all the way to Elliott Bay.
- Optional Stop: Des Moines Marina. Located roughly halfway back to Seattle, it’s a great spot to stretch your legs on the long pier or grab a quick coffee before the final push.
Tip: Watch the commercial traffic entering and leaving the Port of Tacoma; these container ships move much faster than they appear. Give them a wide berth.
