Watch Sailing America's Northwest - Cruising the San Juan Islands

Sailing America's Northwest - Cruising the San Juan Islands is a 60-minute documentary that explores the majestic beauty of the San Juan Islands and the Salish Sea, near the northwest coast of North America. The film showcases the breathtaking scenery of these islands through the eyes of sailor and yacht broker, Gary Franks. The documentary starts with an introduction of Gary Franks, who has lived on the water most of his life and currently resides on a sailboat in Anacortes, Washington. Franks is an experienced sailor and loves to explore the picturesque coves, jagged shorelines, and abundant wildlife of the San Juan Islands. He has sailed extensively through the Salish Sea and is the perfect guide for this journey.

The documentary then takes the viewer on a journey through the San Juan Islands, starting with a visit to Friday Harbor. This charming town is one of the most popular destinations in the San Juan Islands and is a hub for tourists, boaters, and sailors alike. We see the quaint streets and busy docks and learn about the rich history of the town.

Next, Gary Franks takes us on a sailboat tour of the islands. We see the rugged coastline, lush forests, and abundant wildlife of the area. Franks points out the different types of boats and sailing techniques used in the area and shares his knowledge about the tides and currents. We also see the impressive wildlife of the area, including seals, whales, eagles, and otters.

The documentary continues with a visit to Roche Harbor, another popular destination in the San Juan Islands. This small village is home to a historic hotel, a marina, and a thriving arts community. We learn about the significance of the lime industry in the area and how it helped shape the economy of the islands.

As we continue on our journey, we visit other parts of the San Juan Islands, including Orcas Island, Shaw Island, and Lopez Island. Each island has its own unique charm and character, and we see how the people who live there have adapted their way of life to the rhythms of the sea.

The documentary also covers the important issue of environmental conservation in the area. As we sail through these pristine waters, we see how the San Juan Islands are fragile and in need of protection. We hear from local conservationists who are working to preserve the land and water for future generations.

Throughout the documentary, Gary Franks provides insightful commentary on the history, culture, and ecology of the San Juan Islands. He shares his own personal experiences living on the water and his love and passion for sailing.

Overall, Sailing America's Northwest - Cruising the San Juan Islands is a beautiful and informative documentary that showcases the stunning natural beauty of these islands. It is a must-watch for anyone who loves sailing, nature, and the Pacific Northwest.

Sailing America's Northwest - Cruising the San Juan Islands is a 2017 special interest movie with a runtime of 37 minutes.