Let’s Go Sailing!
Northwest Classic Daysailing in Deer Harbor, Orcas Island, has been offering 3-hour daysailing tours since 2001. We sail in the scenic heart of the San Juan Islands, in well-protected waters. Our vessel is “Aura”, a 1948 Seattle-built wooden sloop, 33 feet long. Captain Ward Fay has owned the boat since 1994. Private trips for up to six people are available, as well as group trips where other passengers may be aboard. No more than four on a group trip.
Captain Ward Fay looks forward to sharing with you the fun of sailing in this beautiful place. He has a 100-ton USCG Master’s License for Inland Waters. He is also a certified sailing instructor with the American Sailing Association. He has been sailing in the San Juan Islands since 1981. Sailing experience is not required. You can steer and trim the sails, or just sit back and enjoy the ride, the scenery, and the wildlife. There is no charge for instruction. Please ask questions.
We will be looking for seals, porpoises, ospreys, eagles, and even whales if we’re very lucky. Whatever nature reveals. Mainly, we will be looking for wind, and we won’t need much. Bring your own food and drink for a floating picnic. Morning, afternoon, and evening trips are available from May to October.
“Aura” has a large cockpit that seats six comfortably. There is 6’2” headroom in the cabin, with an enclosed head. Rain gear is provided if necessary, and there is an awning to cover the cockpit while we proceed using the jib sail. Please be able to dress warmly.
“Aura” is a beautiful William Garden design from 1946, one of 8 built by Blanchard Boat Company on Lake Union in Seattle in the late 1940s. She is 33 feet on deck and is all wood, made with red cedar planking on a fir keel with oak frames.
