Best Cruise Destinations in Washington, United States
1. San Juan Islands
A cluster of islands known for its orcas and diverse wildlife, offering a unique cruising experience with stunning landscapes.
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunity to see killer whales, seals, porpoises, and eagles.
- Scenic Beauty: Breathtaking views of islands, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean.
- Historic Sites: Visit charming villages with historic landmarks like lighthouses and heritage farms.
2. Victoria, BC (Canada)
A British-style city with gardens, tea rooms, and architecture, easily accessible by cruise from Washington.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience traditional English customs like high tea.
- Scenic Beauty: Visit the world-famous Butchart Gardens.
- Harbour Activities: Explore the vibrant Inner Harbour with shops, restaurants, and street performers.
3. Port Townsend
A picturesque Victorian seaport with a rich maritime history, offering unique shopping and dining experiences.
- Historic District: Explore the beautifully preserved Victorian architecture.
- Shopping: Browse art galleries, antique shops, and local boutiques.
- Maritime Activities: Learn about the area's maritime history at the Port Townsend Maritime Center.
4. Olympic National Park
A vast wilderness with mountains, rainforests, and coastline, accessible by cruise from Port Angeles.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the rugged Pacific coastline and lush rainforests.
- Wildlife: Spot black bears, elk, and a variety of bird species.
- Hiking Opportunities: Explore over 600 miles of hiking trails.
5. Seattle
A bustling city with vibrant neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and excellent dining options.
- Iconic Landmarks: Visit the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Seattle Center.
- Cultural Diversity: Experience diverse food, music, and art scenes.
- Nature Nearby: Escape the city to explore parks like Discovery Park or take a cruise to the San Juan Islands.
6. Anacortes
A gateway to the San Juan Islands with a vibrant maritime culture and scenic beauty.
- Maritime Culture: Learn about the local fishing industry and boat-building traditions.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of the islands and mountains.
- Farm-to-Table Dining: Savor fresh, local seafood and produce at restaurants in town.
7. La Conner
A charming riverfront town with art galleries, antique shops, and scenic beauty.
- Art and Culture: Visit local art studios and galleries.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy views of the Swinomish Channel and surrounding farmland.
- Historic Sites: Explore the Skagit County Historical Museum.
8. Poulsbo
A quaint Norwegian-inspired town with unique shops, restaurants, and a vibrant waterfront.
- Norwegian Heritage: Experience Scandinavian cuisine and architecture.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy views of Liberty Bay and the Olympic Mountains.
- Shopping: Browse unique Scandinavian-themed shops.
9. Edmonds
A picturesque coastal town with a vibrant arts scene and charming downtown.
- Arts Scene: Visit the Edmonds Center for the Arts or the Puget Sound Express Gallery.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore the Interurban Trail, a paved path for walking or biking.
10. Port Angles
A gateway to Olympic National Park with a maritime heritage and scenic beauty.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the rugged Pacific coastline and lush rainforests.
- Maritime Activities: Learn about the area's maritime history at the West End Maritime Center.
- Nearby National Park: Explore Olympic National Park, a vast wilderness with mountains, rainforests, and coastline.
11. Ilwaco
A quaint coastal town with a historic pier, maritime heritage, and scenic beauty.
- Maritime Heritage: Learn about the local fishing industry and boat-building traditions.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean and Long Beach Peninsula.
- Shopping: Browse unique shops on the historic Ilwaco Bayfront.
12. Astoria, OR (USA)
A historic maritime city with a rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
- Maritime Heritage: Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy views of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean.
- Cultural Diversity: Experience Astoria's unique blend of Native American, European, and Asian cultures.
13. Columbia River Gorge
A scenic gorge with hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the stunning landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge.
- Hiking Opportunities: Explore over 290 miles of hiking trails.
- Waterfall Viewing: Visit iconic waterfalls like Multnomah Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
14. Cannon Beach
A picturesque coastal town with beautiful beaches, unique shops, and scenic beauty.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy views of Haystack Rock and the Pacific Ocean.
- Shopping: Browse unique shops in town.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore the beach, go tide pooling, or hike nearby Ecola State Park.
15. Newport, OR (USA)
A historic coastal city with a vibrant arts scene, maritime heritage, and scenic beauty.
- Arts Scene: Visit the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts or the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center.
- Maritime Heritage: Learn about the area's maritime history at the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy views of Yaquina Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the Yaquina Head lighthouse.