Victoria to Port Angeles by boat

Pilotage Plan: Victoria, BC to Port Angeles, WA

Introduction
Navigating from Victoria, British Columbia to Port Angeles, Washington offers a delightful experience filled with stunning coastal views, unique landmarks, and diverse marine wildlife. This trip is suitable for experienced boaters looking for an adventurous yet manageable route, ensuring a blend of safety and enjoyment on the water.

Route Overview
The distance between Victoria and Port Angeles is approximately 20 nautical miles across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This route involves navigating busy shipping lanes and requires attention to navigational aids, making it ideal for boaters who are comfortable with coastal navigation.

Departure from Victoria, BC
Begin your journey in Victoria's Inner Harbour, a bustling hub with easy access to necessary provisions and marina facilities. Prior to departure, ensure your vessel is equipped with all necessary safety equipment: life jackets, flares, a VHF radio, and first-aid kits.

As you exit the harbour, be mindful of the local ferries and their schedules, as they can often create tricky navigational situations.

Notable Points of Interest Along the Route

1. Baker Island: On your port side as you proceed west, Baker Island is an intriguing stop for its natural beauty and wildlife. A quick detour to explore this small, uninhabited island is rewarding—look out for seals basking on the rocks.
2. Sooke Basin: If you're in need of shelter, consider diverting towards Sooke Basin, especially if weather conditions turn unfavorable. It’s a well-protected area with multiple anchorage spots and scenic views. Perfect for a short break or lunch.

The Strait of Juan de Fuca
After passing Baker Island, you’ll enter the open waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Maintain a vigilant watch for shipping traffic, as this is a busy international waterway. Remember to check the latest marine traffic reports in your boating app.

Navigational Aids
As you proceed, keep the following aids in mind:

Race Rocks Lighthouse: Located to starboard, this iconic lighthouse marks a critical navigation point. Be cautious of submerged rocks and strong currentwaters in this area.

Buoy System: Pay close attention to the red and green buoys; these will help you maintain a safe course and keep you clear of shallows.

Regulations & Local Restrictions
When crossing from Canadian to U.S. waters, be sure to comply with customs regulations. You'll need to report your arrival to U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon reaching Port Angeles, so plan for this when organizing your itinerary.

Be aware that there are areas with speed restrictions and specific zones to protect marine wildlife, particularly around the San Juan Islands.

Arrival in Port Angeles, WA
As you approach Port Angeles, watch for the marina entrance. Port Angeles is well-equipped for visiting boaters; at the marina, you’ll find amenities such as fuel docks, pump-out stations, and provisioning options.

Conclusion
This route from Victoria to Port Angeles is not only beautiful but rich with opportunities for seafaring adventure and exploration. With proper planning, attentiveness to navigational aids, and adherence to regulations, boaters can enjoy a safe and memorable journey. This plan is particularly suitable for the moderately experienced boater keen on coastal navigation—ensuring safety without compromising the thrill of adventure.

Before heading out, consider downloading apps like Savvy Navvy, which provide real-time navigational information and chart access, along with Navionicsand ActiveCaptainfor comprehensive route planning and on-the-water guidance. Enjoy your trip!