Seeing Stars

Sea Stars

Sea stars, also known as starfish, play an important role in the ecosystem of the Salish Sea. The PNW is home to several species of these interesting animals. They are considered to be keystone species, which means that their presence has a significant impact on the overall structure and function of the ecosystem.

 

Sea stars are known to help maintain diversity within the ecosystem. They are top predators and help to keep populations of other species in balance, particularly those of mussels and sea urchins. Without sea stars, these populations can grow unchecked, leading to changes in the ecosystem. By consuming certain species, they can create space and resources for other species to thrive. For example, if a particular species of bivalve were to become too abundant, it could outcompete other bivalves and prevent them from surviving. By feeding on this species, sea stars can help to create space for other bivalves to establish themselves in the ecosystem.

 

In addition to their role as predators, sea stars can also help to maintain the health of the ecosystem by serving as indicators of environmental conditions. Because they are sensitive to changes in water temperature and other factors, they can be used as a tool for monitoring the health of the ecosystem and identifying potential issues before they become more widespread.

 

Each species plays an important role in the ecosystem, helping to keep populations of other animals in check, and serving as prey for larger predators. Some of the most commonly found species of sea stars in the Salish Sea include:

 

 

Sunflower Star (Pycnopodia helianthoides): This species is known for its large size, with arms that can grow up to a meter long. It is orange or red in color and has numerous small tube feet.

 

 

Ochre Star (Pisaster ochraceus): This sea star is commonly found on rocky shores and tide pools, and is known for its purplish-brown color and five arms. It feeds on mussels and barnacles, using its many tube feet to pry open the shells.

 

 

Leather Star (Dermasterias imbricata): This species is found in deeper waters, and has a distinctive leathery texture to its skin. It is usually green or brown in color and can grow up to 20 centimeters in diameter.

 

 

Six-rayed Star (Leptasterias hexactis): This species is commonly found in the colder waters of the Salish Sea, and is known for its six arms that are arranged in a hexagonal pattern. It is usually brown or yellow in color and feeds on plankton.

 

Starfish Wasting Disease

Recent years have seen a declining population of these interesting creatures in our Salish Sea waters. Starfish wasting disease is a condition that affects several species of sea stars. The disease causes the sea stars to develop lesions and then lose their limbs, ultimately leading to death. The disease has been observed in the Pacific Northwest since 2013 and has resulted in significant declines in sea star populations in the region.

 

The exact cause of starfish wasting disease is not fully understood, but researchers believe that it is caused by a virus or bacteria that affects the sea stars’ immune system. The disease is thought to be spread through the water, but it is not clear how it is introduced to the sea star populations. The impact of starfish wasting disease on the Pacific Northwest ecosystem has been significant. Overall, the long-term effects of the disease on the Pacific Northwest ecosystem are still not fully understood, and research on the disease and its impact are ongoing.

 

 

Duration
3 days
Group Size
2 to 6

3-Day All Inclusive Sailing Tour of the San Juan Islands

Join us for an all-inclusive multi day sailing tour of the most beautiful marine environment in the world!

Prices start at $1999 USD per person. Early and late season discounts available. Gratuities are welcome, but not included in cost of trip.

2024 Dates for 3-Day Tour:

Please note: THE DATES BELOW DO NOT REFLECT CURRENT RESERVATIONS. Please use the "Check Availability" button on this page to see a real-time calendar.

May: 5/10-5/12
June: 6/7-6/9
September: 9/7-9/9, 9/13-9/15, 9/18-9/20

If the dates you want are not listed above, please contact us. We are very flexible, and can often adjust the sailing schedule, and can create tours of any duration.

Our multi-day, all-inclusive sailing tours are the best way to unwind, relax and immerse yourself in the Salish Sea's natural beauty. With each day aboard, you'll feel a deeper connection to the natural world as you let the stresses of everyday land-based life melt away. We follow the rhythms of the wind and tides to show you the true beauty of this magical archipelago.

Sailing from our home port of Deer Harbor, Orcas Island, we are quickly in one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich areas of the world. Our naturalist captain will hoist the sails and guide your small group in an intimate exploration of wildlife and nature by eco-friendly sail power.

Sailing aboard the S/V Nawalak is about escaping the crowds, relaxing, and connecting with nature and the sea while exploring the quiet beaches and pristine islands of the northwest. During our tours we share with you the gems and secrets we’ve discovered in our 30+ years of sailing these amazing waterways.

23 Reviews verify
from
$1,999
Duration
3 to 6 days
Group Size
2 to 6

Sail & Paddle Tour

New this year!

Hey there, avid kayaker or paddle boarder! Think you've seen and conquered it all? We invite you to paddle the mystical waters of the San Juan Islands, while you return each evening to the safe, warm and cozy confines of our luxury 55' sailboat.

Aboard Sailing vessel Nawalak, you'll be treated to 3 luxury meals per day by our on-board chef to fuel your kayaking journeys, as well as a warm, dry berth aboard. No need to pitch a tent, or haul heavy gear - keep it all on the boat!

This tour blends the elegant simplicity of sailing with the intimacy of near shore kayaking, utilizing our vessel as a mother ship for your San Juan Islands kayaking adventures. This is a bring-your-own-kayak adventure where we board, our luxury 55' sail boat and sail deep into the majestic waters of the San Juan Islands. By sailing to these highly sought after kayaking destinations, we eliminate the hassle, and danger of paddling across large bodies of open sea to get to our coveted kayaking destinations. Tour durations are from 3-6 days, and are fully customizable for duration, skill levels and dates. Give us a call to learn more.

Our multi-day, all-inclusive sailing tours are the best way to unwind, relax and immerse yourself in the Salish Sea's natural beauty. With each day aboard, you'll feel a deeper connection to the natural world as you let the stresses of everyday land-based life melt away. We follow the rhythms of the wind and tides to show you the true beauty of this magical archipelago.

Sailing from our home port of Deer Harbor, Orcas Island, we are quickly in one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich areas of the world. Our naturalist captain will hoist the sails and guide your small group in an intimate exploration of wildlife and nature by eco-friendly sail power.

Sailing aboard the S/V Nawalak is about escaping the crowds, relaxing, and connecting with nature and the sea while exploring the quiet beaches and pristine islands of the northwest. During our tours we share with you the gems and secrets we’ve discovered in our 30+ years of sailing these amazing waterways.

88 Reviews verify
from
$1,999
Duration
5 days
Group Size
2 to 6

5-Day All Inclusive Sailing Tour of the San Juan Islands

Join us for an all-inclusive 5-Day sailing tour of the most beautiful marine environment in the world!

All inclusive prices start at $2499 USD per person. Early and late season discounts available. Gratuities are welcome, but not included in cost of trip.

2024 Dates for 5-Day Tour:

Please note: THE DATES BELOW DO NOT REFLECT CURRENT RESERVATIONS. Please use the "Check Availability" button on this page to see a real-time calendar.
If the dates you want are not listed, please contact us. We are very flexible, and can often adjust the sailing schedule, and can create tours of any duration.

May: 5/3-5/7, 5/17-5/21, 5/31-6/4,
June: 6/18-6/22,
July: 7/2-7/6, 7/16-7/20,
August: 8/1-8/5, 8/16-8/20, 8/31-9/4,

Our multi-day, all-inclusive sailing tours are the best way to unwind, relax and immerse yourself in the Salish Sea's natural beauty. With each day aboard, you'll feel a deeper connection to the natural world as you let the stresses of everyday land-based life melt away. We follow the rhythms of the wind and tides to show you the true beauty of this magical archipelago.

Sailing from our home port of Deer Harbor, Orcas Island, we are quickly in one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich areas of the world. Our naturalist captain will hoist the sails and guide your small group in an intimate exploration of wildlife and nature by eco-friendly sail power.

Sailing aboard the S/V Nawalak is about escaping the crowds, relaxing, and connecting with nature and the sea while exploring the quiet beaches and pristine islands of the northwest. During our tours we share with you the gems and secrets we’ve discovered in our 30+ years of sailing these amazing waterways.

25 Reviews verify
from
$2,499
Duration
6 days
Group Size
2 to 6

6-Day All Inclusive Sailing Tour of the San Juan Islands

Join us for an all-inclusive 6-Day sailing tour of the most beautiful marine environment in the world!

All inclusive prices start at $2699 USD per person. Early and late season discounts available. Gratuities are welcome, but not included in cost of trip.

2024 Dates for 6-Day Tour:

Please note: THE DATES BELOW DO NOT REFLECT CURRENT RESERVATIONS. Please use the "Check Availability" button on this page to see a real-time calendar.
If the dates you want are not listed, please contact us. We are very flexible, and can often adjust the sailing schedule, and can create tours of any duration.

May: 5/24-5/29
June: 6/11-6/16, 6/25-6/30
July: 7/9-7/14, 7/24-7/29
August: 8/8-8/13, 8/23-8/28

Our multi-day, all inclusive sailing tours are the best way to unwind, relax and immerse yourself in the Salish Sea's natural beauty. With each day aboard, you'll feel a deeper connection to the natural world as you let the stresses of everyday land based life melt away. We follow the rhythms of the wind and tides to show you the true beauty of this magical archipelago.

Sailing from our home port of Deer Harbor, Orcas Island, we are quickly in one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich areas of the world. Our naturalist captain will hoist the sails and guide your small group in an intimate exploration of wildlife and nature by eco-friendly sail power.

Sailing aboard the S/V Nawalak is about escaping the crowds, relaxing, and connecting with nature and the sea while exploring the quiet beaches and pristine islands of the northwest. During our tours we share with you the gems and secrets we’ve discovered in our 30+ years of sailing these amazing waterways.

84 Reviews verify
from
$2,699
Duration
6 hours
Group Size
2 to 6

San Juan Islands 6-hour Day Sail

Climb aboard and immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of the San Juan Islands.

All inclusive prices start at $229 USD per person, check dates on the right. Please note: If the dates you want are not listed, or another tour is designated, please contact us. We can often adjust the sailing schedule.

Sailing from our home port of Deer Harbor, Orcas Island, we are quickly in one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich areas of the world. Our naturalist captain will hoist the sails and guide your small group in an intimate exploration of wildlife and nature by eco-friendly sail power.

Sailing aboard the S/V Nawalak is about escaping the crowds, relaxing, and connecting with nature and the sea while exploring the quiet beaches and pristine islands of the northwest. During our tours we share with you the gems and secrets we’ve discovered in our 30+ years of sailing these amazing waterways.

3 Reviews verify
from
$229