Saling the Inside Passage
In a way, the Inside Passage is to the Pacific Northwest what the Intracoastal Waterway is to the East Coast—a protected waterway used by mariners to reach distant destinations. However, that’s about where the similarity ends.
Along the Inside Passage, for example, there is not a single drawbridge to worry about. Nor are there any dredged channels. Instead, the way is generally wide and deep, with the route crossing any number of different straits and sounds. Snug anchorages and excellent marinas abound. In many spots you’ll also find great sailing. Best of all, wherever you go, you’ll find yourself surrounded by nature at its best—which is why so many Pacific Northwest sailors have come to regard it as their dream summer cruising grounds.
The Inside Passage starts in Puget Sound, goes through the Salish Sea past Vancouver, British Columbia, and then follows the BC coast to Southeast Alaska. Toward the southern end, which I call “cruising in civilization,” you will find cities and towns with plentifal marinas, provisioning opportunities, chandleries, and such amenities as farmers markets, good shopping, restaurants and fascinating museums. You can also enjoy cruising in Washington
