La Conner to Holmes Harbor

The flotilla enjoyed a relaxed morning of coffee and pastries dockside in La Conner as we waited for the tides to turn. As the Swinomish Channel began to flood, each crew bid farewell to our first port of call and got underway as we ventured Southeast into Skagit Bay. Clear skies and a balmy breeze made for a very cruisey day indeed with crystal clear views of the Cascade volcanoes (Baker, Rainier, and Glacier!) and sightings of harbor porpoise and bald eagles aplenty.

The day heated up as we came to port and began our transit of the Saratoga Passage between Whidbey and Camano Islands. In our second day transiting alongside Whidbey, with more to come tomorrow, the crews got a real sense of just how big the second-largest island in the continental US really is! At Camano Head the flotilla completed its exploration of Saratoga and enjoyed a brief dip into Possession Sound before heading Northwest for Holmes Harbor.

Holmes Harbor – nestled deep among South Whidbey Island’s Hemlocks and Douglas Firs – provided the perfect protection for our first night on the hook. Each crew set their anchor and the flotilla looked quite sharp, all aligned and facing into the evening breeze. Some played grill master and enjoyed an evening on the boat, while others hopped on the dinghy for the quick ride into the quaint town of Freeland. The waterfront park was a welcome opportunity to stretch our legs, and a quick stroll up the main street led to unexpected discoveries, including a winery with entirely local vintages! After a long day on the water nothing felt so rewarding as to put your feet up and let the gentle rocking waves help you unwind.

P.S. Missed this year’s Princess Louisa Flotilla? Not to worry, there’s always next year! Send us an email to reserve your spot on our 2022 Princess Louisa Flotilla.