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The Puget Sound, a significant Puget Sound Cruise Port destination, is an estuary of great length and depth that lies in the northwest coast of Washington State. It is surrounded by mountains of Olympic Peninsula and Cascade Range and stretches approximately 95 miles in length by opening out into the Pacific Ocean through the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Strait of Georgia. Glaciated about 10,000 years ago, it consists of three main basins- Whidbey, South Sound, and Main Basin-and the habitat for major cities around Seattle and Tacoma. This rich ecosystem is also a mixing zone for freshwater and saltwater and provides habitat for a diversified array of organisms both environmentally and economically in the adjoining area.
The Pacific Northwest has multiple routes to treasure its beauty; one is to cruise Puget Sound. From larger cities like Seattle to the little island towns far below the towering blue sky, it is all there. Here are a few of the best things to do on your journey through this beautiful world:
Seattle features lots of shops, events, attractions, and shows. Walk down Pike Place Market to see flying fish and eat local food. Visit the Space Needle for some amazing views or chill out by the water at the Olympic Sculpture Park. City fun and coastal charm all in one!
The San Juan Islands are serene and stunning to see. Tour Friday Harbor and shop at the quaint stores and chance upon good local food. Go whale watching to see the orcas and humpback or try kayaking right along the shore. This is a quiet and serene area home to natures lovers.
Port Townsend is just a quaint little town with classical old-time charm. The downtown includes historic buildings, tiny shops, and local art. It is close to Fort Worden State Park, which is great for walking and beach-combing. Have a bite or a drink in one of the local cafés or breweries.
Bainbridge Island is a short trip from Seattle but seems to belong to a different world. Stroll through the quiet gardens of the Bloedel Reserve or visit the local wineries. The town is otherwise sipped the slow way with shops and art galleries with its quaint charm.
You can find the eagles and the seals and the dolphins in Puget Sound; and maybe just maybe catch a whale! A true nature cruise or sunset sail with all views while animals carry on with life beyond your comfort.
Traveling by boat does not really mean having to spend time doing nothing. Sample local seafood, maybe Dungeness crab or smoked salmon while on board. Some cruise lines also run talks about the area's history and wildlife. You may even enjoy performing some live music as you sail; thus making your trip that much more special.
While Puget Sound does not get high traffic from large ocean cruise lines that ship passengers to Alaska or the Caribbean, several good-sized cruise lines and small luxury or expedition companies do offer excursions around Puget Sound, being incorporated either into Pacific Northwest or Inside Passage itineraries. Here are a few of the best lines sailing into Puget Sound:
Based in Seattle, Holland America Line brings some classical ocean cruising into the region. To find a cruise with them, consider their most frequent itineraries into Alaska and along longer Pacific routes, but they are known to make the odd sailing repositioning cruise or specialty cruise that sails at least through or along the edge of Puget Sound. Mid-sized ships such as Eurodam and Westerdam are known for a fine onboard experience steeped in decades of maritime tradition.
Very relaxed and comfortable small U.S. flagged ships of American Cruise Lines serve to explore the region. Its highly in-demand itinerary "Puget Sound and San Juan Islands" prepares the soul for an imprinted memory of beautiful harbors, quaint seaside towns, and onboard education presentations that cover the history and culture of the Pacific Northwest. American Constellation vessels were actually made for scenic cruises that offer spacious staterooms and impeccable services.
The best time to visit Puget Sound is during the shoulder seasons, April-May or September-October, and during the summer months June-August.
Any cruise will also be pleasant because it makes smart packing possible with this simple checklist of additional mandatory items:
