Jarrell Cove
Jarrell Cove, on Harstine Island, is one of the most beautiful and popular cruising destinations in south Puget Sound. A state park is set under the tall evergreens on the east shore, with two docks and a dozen mooring buoys scattered throughout the cove. On the west shore is a private marina, with moorage, [...]

Filucy Bay, located at the southeast end of the Key Peninsula, is one of the most beautiful and protected anchorages in South Puget Sound. Much of the shoreline here is wooded. The town of Longbranch is little more than a cluster of homes. In early spring, the haunting music of loons can be heard over the still waters; when the weather is clear, Mt. Rainier fills the harbor entrance.

Located on Liberty Bay in the northern part of Kitsap County, picturesque Poulsbo attracts visitors with its waterfront boardwalk and walkable downtown filled with shops, restaurants, bakeries and gift shops. Separated from the main body of Puget Sound by a narrow channel, Liberty Bay offers calm and protected waters, making Poulsbo a great destination any time of year.

An excellent anchorage year-round, Blakely Harbor is a short distance from Seattle, but a trip to this beautiful bay makes you feel like you’ve gotten away from it all. The harbor is usually quiet and offers spectacular views of Elliott Bay and downtown Seattle, which glitters like a distant fairyland at night.

Nearby destinations that might be overlooked for summer cruising can make for terrific quick winter getaways. Andrews Bay on Lake Washington, flanked by the old-growth forest and hiking trails of Seward Park, is a good spot to spend a cozy weekend aboard.

Author and cruiser Migael Scherer takes us to Kingston, where a well-protected marina, restaurants and pubs offer a good weekend getaway for Seattle area boaters.

Mystery Bay, on the west side of Marrowstone Island, offers quiet respite from the bustle of the holiday season. And if you’re feeling brave, there’s a Polar Bear Dip on New Year’s Day.