If you have ever wished to experience first-hand the world of such great explorers as Capt. James Cook, Capt. George Vancouver or that intrepid American, Capt. Robert Gray, or if you have ever read C. S. Forrester, Patrick O’Brien or James Nelson and wondered about the reality of travel under sail in the 18^th-century, this is your chance to live the adventure.

Sign aboard Lady Washington or Hawaiian Chieftain as a crew member on an exploratory expedition bound for the San Juan Islands.  You will learn to set sail, stand watches and stand a trick at the helm of an 18^th-century Tall Ship as well as learning how to sail (and row) our ship’s longboats.  At each of the remote islands we visit, we will send out an expedition to explore the island with trained naturalists.  After the evening meal, we will gather to discuss the expedition's findings, the day’s activities, and share our memories of the day.  We will also discuss options and develop a plan for the following day.

Each night a watch group will sleep aboard, rotating through two-hour anchor watches, keeping track of the ship’s position and sharing tales of life at sea with the professional mariners of the ship’s crew. Plans often change as a pod of killer whales is sighted, or the wind rises to offer an exciting sail to an unexpected destination, and our programs are designed to take advantage of these opportunities. The daily routine may be similar, but the events that make up each day are what make these programs so special. Every sunrise offers a new set of possibilities - new opportunities to learn about our history, our environment, and ourselves.

This program is not for everyone.  Participants are expected to take part in all aspects of the expedition from setting sails to standing watches, manning the windlass, and helping the ship’s cook prepare the meals (not in 18^th-century style!). Special program opportunities are available for families and for youth.

As an exploratory expedition we will have no fixed itinerary other than our scheduled departure and arrival.  When we find a location or a subject of interest, or when a special opportunity presents itself, we will be free to investigate further.

Monday, July 30, 2007 boarding the boats in Anacortes, Washington. Friday, 3 August 2007 returning to Anacortes, WA.