Sequim to Kingston by boat

Pilotage Plan: Sequim, WA to Kingston, WA

Overview

This pilotage plan outlines a delightful journey from Sequim, Washington to Kingston, Washington, navigating the picturesque waters of the Puget Sound. This route is suited for experienced boaters seeking a combination of natural beauty and safe passages, while still being well-versed in navigation and maritime safety.

Starting Point: Sequim, WA

Coordinates: -123.0399, 48.0648 The trip begins in Sequim, a charming seaside town known for its sunny climate and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. Before setting off, check the weather forecast as conditions can change quickly in this region.

Route Summary

From Sequim, the journey towards Kingston will take you across the scenic Discovery Bay, leading into the open waters of Puget Sound. Carefully navigating around the local shipping lanes, your trip can include stops at notable landmarks and excellent shelter bays.

Key Points of Interest

1. Discovery Bay: - A fantastic place to stop for lunch or a picnic. Enjoy the views of the stunning natural landscape and consider anchoring briefly for some fishing or a swim. - Should the weather suddenly worsen, Discovery Bay offers good protection with its northern shores providing shelter.

2. Marrowstone Island: - As you approach Marrowstone, the island offers unique views and wildlife spotting opportunities, especially for bird watchers. For a short excursion, explore the coastline and enjoy some natural beauty.

3. Port Townsend: - A classic maritime town with scenic waterfront facilities. If time allows, take a brief break here to walk around the historic downtown or visit the Port Townsend Marine Science Center. This is a great place to refuel both your boat and yourself.

Navigational Considerations

• Navigational Aids:
- Keep a lookout for buoys marking the navigable channels, particularly as you pass through Discovery Bay and near Port Townsend. - The blinking green light of the Port Townsend entrance can act as a reliable marker when getting your bearings.

• Tides:
- Be aware of the tide conditions before departure; tidal currents in this region can be strong, especially the currents around the entrance to Puget Sound. Planning your departure to coincide with slack tide can make for a smoother passage.

Hazards to be Aware of:

• Be cautious of commercial shipping traffic in the main navigable waters. Maintain vigilance around the shipping lanes, particularly off Point No Point, as it is a busy transit area.
• As you approach Kingston, keep in mind that the waters can become congested, especially on weekends.

Local Regulations:

• Keep up to date on local rules regarding speed limits in certain zones, especially near marinas and wildlife reserves.
• Observe the no-wake zones around Port Townsend to avoid damaging the fragile environment and to ensure the safety of moored vessels.

Arrival Point: Kingston, WA

Coordinates: -122.4988, 47.7932 Upon arrival in Kingston, you’ll find a welcoming harbor with amenities and services for boaters. Kingston itself is a great community with eateries and shops, ideal for taking a break after your cruise.

Safety First

Prioritize safety by ensuring you have all necessary safety gear, including life jackets for every passenger, a first aid kit, and a fire extinguisher onboard. Having a reliable marine communication device is essential, as well as apps like Savvy Navvy for real-time navigation and weather updates.

This route not only offers beautiful vistas and enjoyable landmarks but also allows for maintaining safety across different weather conditions and strong tides. It’s a perfect trip for experienced boaters wanting both adventure and security in their travels. Happy cruising!