Victoria to Sequim by boat

Pilotage Plan: Victoria, BC, CA to Sequim, WA, US

Departure from Victoria, BC

Your journey begins in Victoria, a vibrant city located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Start by ensuring that your vessel is in good condition and double-check your safety equipment: life jackets, flares, first-aid kits, and fire extinguishers. The first leg of the trip will take you through the beautiful waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Notable Points of Interest and Shelters

As you set out from Victoria, keep an eye on the following landmarks and possible shelter areas:

1. Fisherman's Wharf: This is a great place to stock up on any last-minute supplies or enjoy some fresh fish and chips before departing. The colorful floating homes are also a fun sight to see.

2. Oak Bay: Just a short cruise from the harbor, Oak Bay is a picturesque area to admire the local marine life and possibly spot some seals. It offers several safe anchorage points if the weather turns unfavorable.

3. Cadboro Bay: This lovely bay, about five nautical miles from Victoria, provides another excellent option for shelter and is known for its great views. There's a public dock if you wish to take a break and stretch your legs on shore.

4. Halfmoon Bay: On the west side of the Strait, this tranquil spot offers a peaceful anchorage if you need a rest stop or to seek refuge from rough seas.

Navigational Considerations

As you navigate from Victoria to Sequim, you will cross international waters, so be mindful of local regulations:

• Clearance and Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documentation for international travel, including passports and any permits you might need to enter US waters. It helps to check in with customs as you arrive in Sequim.

• Current and Tides: Pay attention to the tidal changes and currents in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, as they can significantly affect your speed and navigation.

• Navigation Aids: The strait has various navigational buoys and lighthouses. Key aids include:
-

: Not only a historical landmark, but also a crucial navigational point. -

: This lighthouse marks the entrance to Dungeness Bay and is essential for navigation as it guides your path towards Sequim.

The Route to Sequim

The cruising distance from Victoria to Sequim is approximately 15 nautical miles. You’ll want to chart a north-northwest course across the Strait of Juan de Fuca, with great attention to traffic as you're likely to encounter fishing boats and ferries, particularly near the Canadian and US border points.

Arrival in Sequim, WA

Upon reaching Sequim, this charming town is well-known for its lavender fields and quaint downtown. The Sequim Bay State Park offers a beautiful backdrop for a day of exploration, with trails and picnic areas to relax after your cruise.

• Sheltering Options in Sequim Bay: If conditions require, Sequim Bay has several marina options and public mooring spaces where you can anchor safely, including the John Wayne Marina, well-equipped for transient boaters.

Safety and Recommendations

This route is ideal for experienced boaters familiar with local waters but can also be enjoyed by those who have a good understanding of the navigation basics. Always maintain a lookout for varying weather conditions, especially fog, which can roll in swiftly along the Strait.

To enhance your trip planning and navigation, consider using boating apps like Savvy Navvy, which provide real-time tracking and weather updates, as well as Navionics for detailed marine charts. Remember to always remain vigilant, plan your stops wisely, and enjoy the incredible natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest on your journey from Victoria to Sequim. Safe sailing!