Blake Island, Puget Sound

Brian98133

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C-242 C
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TUGether
I see some posts here that mention Blake Island, but I'm specifically looking for those that have stayed at the marina.

We are planning a 'last minute' trip the week of the 17th, and have never travelled 'south' for anything but day trips. We'd love to stay at Blake Island, but can't seem to find anything but "first come, first served" for dock space. I normally try to make reservations so we have a definite place to stay, but Blake doesn't seem to accommodate that?

So, I'm hoping to get feedback from those that have had the opportunity to stay at Blake Island. We'll be traveling during the week, so hopefully there would be space... but if not, does anyone have suggestions as to a nice marina fairly close?

Thanks, and happy boating!!
 
Your right about Blake island being first come you can anchor or get a mooring ball there But the wakes from the ferry’s can be fun. I like Poulsbo it’s a nice run and plenty of open stores and restaurants also. Slips assignment is goofy it’s like every third slip is open rest are closed, Anchoring is great
 
We stayed at Blake twice on our trip south (on the way south and on the way back) over the last two weeks and have done similarly for many years. We got a spot on the dock both times no problem arriving late morning (11ish) mid week. Many boats come there just for the day so they come and go quite a bit. There were a few spots that were open and then filled late afternoon. If you are there mid week I think your chances are good. On a weekend you’d be best to arrive early. If full you can always grab a mooring ball near the entrance and wait for someone to leave. For overnight we have found the mooring balls on the west side fairly comfortable.

Curt
 
I have often thought about motoring south as well. Blake Island is a marine state park so like all parks in the San Juan Islands I would guess it is first come first served.
 
We love Blake Island. Beautiful park like area near the marina, lots of trails for hiking, and the deer and raccoons are not afraid of people. Keep your food inside and doors closed to keep the racoons out. The Tillicum Indian Village is closed due to COVID-19 , but you go next spring, the dinner show is worth seeing.
 
No reservations can be made, as stated here it is first come, first served. Besides arriving on a week day I’d also suggest arriving earlier in the day, check out time is by 1 PM, so prior to that gives one a better chance for an open space. Be prepared with lines and fenders on both sides prior to harbor entrance so you’re ready for any available space.

Jim F
 
I agree with others about Blake island . Lots of trails and hiking. the raccoons live in and under the docks. Interaction with your dog is not good. They are aggressive but not dangerous. They will walk all over your boat at night. Still Blake island is a good place to go.
 
Great input! Thank you all for your suggestions... We'll plan for mid-week and arrive by noon, so we're feeling good about finding availability.

Good to know about the mooring balls, hadn't thought of that, but it is a park after all :mrgreen:

We're bummed about the Village being closed, as we have gone there on many occasions via the Harbor Tours... All-you-can-eat salmon and clams is my idea of heaven! 😀 But we've never had enough time (after stuffing our bellies) to walk much around the island, so this will be a great way to do so without the clock ticking. 😀
 
Yacht clubs and other boat groups often monopolize the dock at Blake. They'll arrange a group gathering for a weekend, but they'll have a few "scouts" grab dock space as it frees up, sometimes days before their event. Then when everybody arrives they spread out a little, squeeze their buddies in, raft up etc. Sounds a bit rude, but I've done it myself with my sailing group. I think that was the only time I've ever gotten dock space. Maybe something to consider for a Tugnuts Rendezvous at Blake Island some weekend?
 
Take a few mouse traps with you to place along the dockside gunnel at night. You'll have fewer muddy footprints to clean up in the morning.
 
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