James Island

James Island 6/2/2019


Our mid-morning departure from Friday Harbor delivered a calm and pleasant, two- hour run, south east to James Island. This was our second visit to James Island and the first for Alison & John. 

We neglected to time our arrival to coincide with slack tide. Upon arrival, the dock was almost full but a couple of small boats graciously jockeyed around to make room for us. Thankfully, they were strong young men who were camping with their sons and eager to help as we struggled to dock with wind and a strong 5 knot current working against us. Eventually, Alan was able to get the boat close enough so we could get lines ashore and cleated down and work the boat in. Mission accomplished, thanks to the assistance from shore.


Alison, John and I enjoyed a picturesque hike around the island, while Alan enjoyed a well-deserved nap.

This is where serenity ends! 

We were docked across from a 25’ Ranger Tug with a single, older man aboard.

 Late in the afternoon, the boat docked in front of the tug prepared to leave. The current was still raging at about 5 knots. 

The boat did not back out far enough or fast enough and crashed into the bow of the tug, waking the poor tug captain from a deep sleep. No-one was hurt but some damage was sustained. 

Poor little Ranger Tug! Not 20 minutes later another boat approached the dock to tie up behind the tug. We called to tell them that the current was very strong. They thanked us and proceeded to run into the stern of the tug. Again, luckily no-one was hurt. Damage was limited to a scrape or two and a couple of captains suffered bruised egos. The tug captain was quite nonchalant and said "too bad they didn’t hit me on the starboard side, since I already have dings that could be fixed”. It was like watching demolition derby.


Caution, if you choose to dock at this beautiful marine state park, time your arrival and departures for slack tide.