Summer boat tours explore Swinomish Channel history

The Skagit County Historical Museum has partnered with San Juan Cruises to introduce narrative tours of both the North and South Swinomish Channel, launching from La Conner.

Each is hosted by a local historian well versed in the history and the natural environment lining the Channel’s shores. “You’ve got someone there telling you what you’re seeing,” said Ann Maroney, the Museum’s office manager.

Maroney said Museum staff approached San Juan Cruises to implement the tour after Whatcom County had success with a similar idea with the company.

The tours are available Sundays through August. The routes will alternate. Each lasts about two hours.

The Northern route is hosted by Carl Molesworth. After departing from the La Conner Channel Lodge, the two level vessel heads up the Swinomish Channel, under the Twin Bridges and out to Padilla Bay, where the boat turns around near Saddlebag Island.

The Northern tour focuses on the history of the Swinomish Tribe, local refineries and the creation of the channel itself. Dates for the Northern route are July 7, 21, August 4 and 18.

The Southern route is hosted by Jesse Kennedy III and begins its journey by traveling under the iconic Rainbow Bridge. This tour navigates past Goat Island and turns around near Deception Pass. Kennedy will share the history of Deception Pass, Kiket Island and the quarry at Canoe Pass. The Southern tour will be available July 14, 28, August 11 and 25.

All offer local Northwestern beers, wines and cocktails for purchase.

Bringing a lunch to eat while enjoying the tour is advised.