Rugged, remote, and teeming with serene beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cruising grounds, the Salish Sea is the perfect places to learn both bluewater and coastal cruising skills for global cruising. Huge tides, powerful currents, uncharted hazards, and dynamic local weather patterns provide an excellent opportunity for you to build your skills and knowledge in a stunning ocean setting.
Every sail training expedition features the renowned Mahina-Pelagic Blue curriculum which is specifically designed to help you master all aspects of operating and maintaining a modern cruising boat anywhere in the world. No two trips are the same; actual route and itinerary is determined by weather, sea conditions, tides, currents, and crew.
For ease of travel, all expeditions begin and end in Bellingham, WA. Don’t hesitate to ask about the waitlist if the expedition you’re keen on is full, as we do get cancellations, especially last minute.
Board in Bellingham and ease into the expedition by island hopping through our favorite San Juan destinations. From there, we’ll set up for the big transition: navigating the tempestuous Strait of Juan de Fuca and breaking out into the Open Pacific. This is where you’ll feel the true motion of the ocean and put offshore seamanship, watchstanding, and routing decisions into practice.
During each expedition you'll sail 300+ nautical miles including a passage of at least 100 miles, plus master traditional and electronic navigation, storm tactics, Lifesling overboard rescue, vessel systems, teamwork, and gain many valuable skills and experiences.
Along the way, we’ll explore coastal towns of the Olympic Peninsula, dodge heavy vessel traffic, and work with powerful currents and big tides. Classic Pacific Northwest seamanship that translates into global voyaging prep at its finest. We'll visit world-renowned maritime hubs to learn from local artisans.
Leg 1: July 10-16, 2027 7 days 6 berths left 5,000 USD
Leg 2: July 17-23, 2027 7 days 6 berths left 5,000 USD
Leg 4: Sept 11-17, 2027 7 days FULL 5,000 USD
Leg 5: Sept 18-24, 2027 7 days 6 berths left 5,000 USD
The same Pelagic Blue training philosophy and curriculum, with a focus on coastal cruising training. Enjoy extended island hopping through the remote reaches of the San Juan Islands archipelago while leveling up your coastal cruising skills on this sailing and cruising expedition.
Instead of heading out the Strait, this expedition focuses on the nuances of coastal route planning, weather decisions, and seamanship in complex, high-use waterways while allowing time to explore more of our favorite island destinations and anchorages.
You’ll practice sailing through narrow passes, work with strong currents and big tides, and navigate busy traffic lanes. Practice anchoring, mooring, coastal piloting, and close quarters maneuvering techniques you’ll use every day as a coastal cruiser. Enjoy hiking, swimming, and exploring some of the most stunning cruising grounds on the planet with expert guidance and instruction.
Leg 3: July 24-30, 2027 7 days 6 berths left 5,000 USD
Leg 6: Sept 26-Oct 2, 2027 9 days 6 berths left 6,000 USD
Hands-On From Day One
You’ll take the helm, manage sail plans, troubleshoot systems, and plot our course. There are no spectators here, you are the crew.
Real-World Conditions
You'll gain confidence navigating, anchoring, and reefing when it matters most.
Radically Supportive Training
We meet you where you are. We teach with patience, clarity, and context. Our curriculum was developed and tested by John Neal over 400,000 miles and continues to be refined.
Technical Know-How
Learn not just what to do but why. We're certified marine technicians and licensed captains who want to demystify boat systems and seamanship for you.
Nat Geo Meets Bluewater
We’re marine biologists and National Geographic expedition naturalists. You can expect thoughtful, science-rich sailing with a deep connection to the ocean.
Got your eye on a leg? Or not sure which trip is right for you?
We’re here to help.
Whether you're ready to apply or just have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll talk through your goals, experience, and next steps to help you find the right fit.