Fall Cruising timing

thechadmiller · Jul 12, 2018

Hi. My summer is flying by and no time to do much multiple day boating. I was hoping to do our first San Juan's or southern Gulf Osland kinda trip in early fall. How late can you safely bet on decent weather in terms of rough water conditions? Is mid-October too late to plan a trip? I know it's a lot of guessing in advance, but just hoping for some experienced thoughts.

JamesTXSD · Jul 12, 2018

September is generally lovely weather still. October can be iffy (at best) in the San Juans... you could have comfortably cool weather or wind blowing like stink. One thing you can be sure of: it will be quiet - most of the commercial boat operators have seriously curtailed operations by October.

Historical averages: https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/san-j ... 10/01/2018

C-Val · Jul 12, 2018

My last two trips to Gulf Islands in October had to be cancelled due to wind
I would say the earlier in fall the better

DayBreak · Jul 12, 2018

Mid October could be good but check on the local 5 or 10 day weather report in the area you want to boat in before you head out and check in daily on the weather because it can change suddenly. Watch the NOAA wind wave report and wind direction in relation to the swell direction and period of the seconds between swells. Be ready to cancel your trip at the last minute. End of September would be better. Mid October is kinda pushing it. Also, check your PM. I have a question about your boat. Thanks. Gary.

MikeR · Jul 12, 2018

Good advice given above regarding watching the weather forecast. Many of us find October, November, and December to be some of the best boating around here, if you are OK with the likelihood of some showers (But that's why we have cabins). If weather permits, you might find you have everywhere to yourself, and a far different vibe than what you would find in July and August with big crowds in many places. Below are photos from recent boat fall trips in the San Juans. Days are short and nights are long this time of year, usually dark by 5 or 6 PM, so best to bring cabin heat and books or other entertainment.

Fossil Bay, Nov 10th 2016