Anacortes Chamber of Commerce
Overlooking the Cap Sante Marina.
Words by Steve Fennell
Part of the appeal of any marina is its location. While there’s a lot to be said about those situated in rural areas, half of the fun of boating is discovering (or revisiting) unique coastal communities with a combination of marine services, accessible dining options, commercial businesses and local attractions. Add in beautiful natural surroundings and the good times will just keep on rolling during your trip.
Crossing into U.S. waters from British Columbia leads to several destinations in Washington State. The further the south you go, the more positive boating experiences you’ll have. These experiences, of course, include the scenic San Juans. After spending a week or longer exploring many of the islands’ inlets, bays and coves, a break from the helm - and the necessity to refuel and replenish essentials - is always a welcome notion.
Breaking away from the San Juans and cruising to the east leads to the colourful community of Anacortes on Fidalgo Island, approximately the halfway point between Seattle and Vancouver. Whether you’re under sail or power travelling north-south (or vice versa), this shoreside community is a convenient stop.
At the northern tip of Fidalgo is Cap Sante Marina, one of the choices of marinas in the area and one to consider since it’s located on the west shore in protected Fidalgo Bay, and has a variety of marine services and amenities. It’s also one of the largest in the area. What’s convenient about the marina - even before you arrive - is it accepts online transient slip reservations up to a year in advance but if you don’t reserve early, simply notify staff on the day of your departure and a slip will be available later that day upon your arrival.
Amenities for Transient Boaters
Owned and operated by the Port of Anacortes, a Washington State Municipal Corporation, Cap Sante is a full-service facility that has more than 100 transient slips and can accommodate boats up to 40 m (130 ft). During your visit, you’ll have access to all of its amenities including 20-/50-amp shore power, free WiFi, convenient debit/credit card operated shower and laundry facilities, portable pump-out carts (a pump-out float in the harbour can also be used at no cost), and even complimentary bikes to get around town (from May to September - weather permitting).
Anacortes Chamber of Commerce
Pulling out to enjoy a day on the water
Another convenient service is its fuel dock. At 38 m (125 ft), it’s well-equipped to manage heavy boat traffic and large volumes of gas or diesel with its four stations and one high-speed pump. While the prices are competitive, the marina offers discounts on quantities of more than 379 L (100 gal) with additional price breaks when fueling more than 2,839 L (750 gal) of diesel.
If you arrive in the area with a boat in tow, Cap Sante is just one of many places to launch your runabout or pocket cruiser, and a small hoist (max capacity of 11,339 kg (25,000 lb)) is available. The marina even has convenient trailer parking.
Once settled into a slip, visit the on-site Cabana and Anthony’s restaurant, which has a diverse menu with casual yet unique expertly prepared fare.
Marine Services and More
Cap Sante Marina is conveniently nearby to a variety of marine service facilities in Fidalgo Bay. So if you need parts, minor repairs or are having issues with mechanical, plumbing, or electrical systems, contact any one of the local boatyards or shops to remedy the problem. There’s also the nearby Marine Supply and Hardware, which is one of the oldest Marine Chandleries in the U.S. West Coast.
The marina is within walking distance to grocery stores, pharmacies, as well as a variety of great dining options and shopping downtown Anacortes - pick up some take-out from any one of the restaurants and take it back to your slip or plan a picnic at nearby Cap Sante Park or Seafarers Memorial Park.
Juliana Malta
The dining is worth it downtown with the menu items consisting of locally-sourced meats, produce, and seafood.
If you’re towing a boat and require accommodations, a few RV parks are in the immediate area or stay at the Cap Sante Inn, which is about a four-minute walk from the marina. With COVID-19 safety protocols in place, some of the rooms offer views of the marina, and it’s also close to restaurants, shopping, and local attractions. www.www.capsanteinn.net
While there are a lot of attractions on the water (see below) that provide perfect day trips, Anacortes is appealing as well. All you need to do is stroll along its downtown district and browse many of the locally-owned shops, cafés, antique stores, clothiers, and more.
Spice up your visit here even more by visiting during any one of the popular events including the Anacortes Waterfront Festival (June 4-5), The Anacortes Art Festival (August 5-7), which is one of the oldest and largest arts showcasing in the Northwest, or the Shipwreck Music Festival in July.
Regardless of when or how you visit, Cap Sante Marina and Anacortes is an exciting destination. All of its services, scenic parklands, and attractions on the water make it an ideal getaway in the heart of Washington State.
Enjoyment on the Water
Whether you’re coming, going or staying in the area for a few days, plan to visit the area’s scenic waterways and other local natural attractions. Some of the choices include:
- Cypress Island
This is the least populated island of the San Juans Islands and the closest to Anacortes. It consists of a protected Natural Resources Conservation Area and Cypress Island Aquatic Reserve. Considering it’s only accessible by boat (minus the pedestrian crowds) it’s a great area to enjoy some quiet time in the area.
- Deception Pass State Park
Located at the south end of Fidalgo, neighbouring Whidbey Island, this is one of the most popular parks in Washington State. It’s only 15 minutes by tow vehicle from Cap Sante Marina and is convenient to visit while motoring further south or cruising north.
It spans more than 3,854 ac (1,650 ha) across Fidalgo and Whidbey islands (Canoe Pass and Deception Pass bridges connect the two), has 24 km (15 mi) of saltwater shoreline and about 10 km (roughly 6 mi) of freshwater shoreline on three lakes with 600 m (1,980 ft) of moorage. Some of the land-based activities include mountain biking, hiking, birding, or leisurely walks along the beaches.
- Washington Park: This park spans 89 ha (220 ac) at the west end of Fidalgo and is about a 10-minute drive from Cap Sante Marina. The park has a boat launch, day-use picnic area, and paved 3.5 km (2.2 mi) hiking loop through forested hills and meadows. Camping is also available.
For more details and trip ideas visit www.anacortes.org
Discover Anacortes’ Local Flavours
Anacortes Farmer’s Market is where you can purchase (and afterwards taste) the local fresh meats, produce, and dairy. Artisan crafts, soaps, jewelry and more are also available. The market is open every Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm from May 7 to October 29 at the Depot at 7th Street & R Avenue. For all of the details visit www.anacortesfarmersmarket.org