Southern Crossing

This loop is another classic "Inland Sea" adventure, taking you through some of the most protected and scenic waterways in the South Puget Sound. It is the perfect choice for families or sailors looking for short hops, world-class dining, quiet anchorages, rural settings and a deep dive into the region’s rich Slavic maritime heritage.

The South Sound Explorer: Four-Day Itinerary

Cast off from Seattle and head southwest across the main shipping channel toward Blake Island, a marine state park accessible only by boat.

• The Cruise: A short, easy shake-down sail to kick off the trip. Keep an eye out for Mt. Rainier looming to the south as you cross.

• Stay: Blake Island (Anchorage/Mooring Buoys). Drop your hook in the well-protected anchorage on the south side of the island (Blake Island South Pocket), or grab a state park mooring buoy. If you prefer a dock, Tillicum Village marina on the north side is an option, but anchoring out on the south side offers spectacular, undisturbed views of the Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline.

• Activity: Go ashore by dinghy to explore the miles of hiking trails, beachcomb along the driftwood-lined shores, and enjoy a peaceful campfire on the beach.

Day 2: Blake Island to Gig Harbor (~18 NM)

Wake up early to catch the south-flowing current down Colvos Passage. This passage is famous among local sailors because the current almost always flows north on the eastern side, but features a frequent counter-current flowing south along the western (Vashon Island) side.

• The Cruise: Sail south through Colvos Passage, keeping Vashon Island to your port side. As you exit the passage, you'll head toward the narrow, hidden entrance of Gig Harbor. Watch for traffic entering and exiting the tight channel.

• Stay: Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard or the Arabella’s Landing marina. Both place you right in the historic downtown.

• Activity: Walk along the waterfront of this historic fishing village. Visit the Heritage Distilling Co. for a tasting, or grab dinner at the Tides Tavern, a legendary waterfront institution for boaters.

Day 3: Gig Harbor to Quartermaster Harbor (~11 NM)

Head back out of the harbor and cross the top of the Tacoma Narrows, steering northeast toward the southern tip of Vashon Island.

• The Cruise: You'll sail around Point Defiance and enter the grand entrance of Quartermaster Harbor, a large, highly protected bay tucked between Vashon Island and Maury Island.

• Stay: Dockton Park Marina. Tie up at the county-operated dock at Dockton Park on Maury Island. It offers power, water, and a relaxed, quiet park setting.

• Activity: Explore the historic logging and shipbuilding history of Dockton via the park's interpretive trails, or stretch your legs with a walk up into the quiet rural roads of Maury Island.

Day 4: Quartermaster Harbor to Seattle (~16 NM)

Enjoy a peaceful morning coffee in the harbor before prepping the boat for the final leg northbound.

• The Cruise: Exit Quartermaster Harbor and head north up the East Passage, keeping Vashon Island to your port and the mainland (Des Moines/Federal Way) to your starboard. You'll pass the historic Point Robinson Lighthouse on Maury Island—a great spot to sail close by for photos.

• Tip: Watch for the fast-ferries and commercial shipping traffic as you approach Elliott Bay, and keep the crew alert for a classic final beat back into your Seattle slip.

Cruising Tips for the South Sound

• Tidal Currents: The currents around the Tacoma Narrows and southern passages can be incredibly strong (sometimes exceeding 5 knots). Always consult your tide and current tables when planning your departure times for Day 2 and Day 3.

• Debris: The South Sound can accumulate floating logs and debris, especially after heavy rains or high spring tides. Keep a sharp lookout at the bow.