This was a terrific day sailing trip on a classic wooden boat.  Captain Ward takes you around the Wasp Islands and the channel between Orcas and San Juan (depending on wind).  He identifies the islands for you and even tells a few stories.  Best of all, he has you help sail the boat, both steering the tiller and hauling rope for sails (if you have delicate hands, bring gloves).   Just a great trip.

  Could not have had a better day
Sunny, warm and just the right amount of wind. A true blessing for the first weekend in Oct
Ward was very calm and polite
Let you do as much or as little as you wanted. Ask the question and he shares openly, instructs and gives pointers in recognizing wind, current, other boat traffic
Pointing out landmarks, history flora and fauna
Would sail again with Ward any day

  Ward was very personable and taught us a bit about sailing. He encouraged my daughter to steer the entire way. She was quite timid about going on the sailboat at first and by the time she got off the boat, she wanted one of her own. He engaged my husband and father in law to help with the sails and jib. It was very relaxing and we even got to see some seals and eagles. Though it says for up to 6 people, I think 4 is more than sufficient. It might be quite tight with more than 4 people. Very fun outting.  We all loved it.

  We had a great time sailing with Captain Ward on his beautiful sailboat, Aura. He was knowledgeable, skilled, fun, and easy to talk to. I went with my partner and our infant son, and felt safe and happy the entire time. It was a great new experience, and the Captain was accommodating and also let us participate and learn as we went!

  Wonderful sailing around the San Juan Islands with Captain Ward! He allows you to help in the sailing and patiently answers all questions. A wonderful way to spend the afternoon.

  We had a fantastic adventure with Captain Ward. We were traveling with our two children and the memories he helped make will last a life time.  The journey begins in Deer Harbor and is relatively easy to find. We parked near the post office and made our way down the dock.  There is a place to grab food and bathroom facilities on the dock. Just passed the gift shop on the left was Captain Ward's nostalgic boat.  He had life vest ready for our kiddos which was a blessing. He allowed the kiddos to steer the boat, provided amazing insight to the geographical area, and sailing knowledge. One of our children has special needs and we are truly grateful for Captain Ward's patience and guidance.  He taught us the different parts of the boat, terminology, and allowed us to assist with the sails and different parts of the boat.  We didn't feel rushed. The atmosphere was very peaceful and welcoming. We saw lots of adult and baby seals, birds, a porpoise, and a jellyfish. It was a very relaxing trip. I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to embark on a less touristy experience with a laid back local.

  This was the first time my wife and I had ever been sailing, and what a wonderful experience! Ward was a great captain/host and he was VERY knowledgeable about not only sailing, but also about the history of the San Juan Islands... as we'd sail along, he was always pointing out little details about different islands or houses that we'd see. I also loved how he got us involved in the actual sailing of the boat. Overall fantastic experience. Highly recommend if you've never done it before.

  We had a lovely time with Ward!! Absolutely awesome day of sailing out of Orcas Island. Ward was very relaxed, patient, and knowledgeable about the area. He even allowed us to take turns steering the boat and taught us a little about sailing! It was my parents' first trip out to the San Juan's and our day sailing with Ward was definitely the highlight! We brought some snacks, paid for an extra hour, and I think we could have stayed all day. 🙂 we will definitely be back again to sail with Ward!

  Ward showed us a great time with beautiful views of the islands from the water. Also got nice sailing lession!! Highly recommend this!

  Our experience with Northwest Classic Day Sailing was fantastic! Having never sailed before, we received perfect beginner pointers, all while enjoying the sail and the beautiful views. Our captain, Ward, was an incredible host and extremely knowledgeable about all things sailing and all things Orcas island. I cannot recommend this experience enough. Thank you Ward!