The Eclipse Charter boat "Express" will take guests on a Cruise through island history with Tom Welch on Sept. 8

The Eclipse Charter boat “Express” will take guests on a Cruise through island history with Tom Welch on Sept. 8

Sunday, Sept. 8 from 12 noon to 5 p.m.

From the Orcas Island Historical Museum and Society

The Orcas Island Historical Museum and Society, in partnership with Orcas Island Eclipse Charters, announces its 6th Annual “Cruise Into History.”

Sailing from Orcas Landing aboard the well-appointed 56’ Westport M.V. “Express,” the “Cruise Into History” will circumnavigate Orcas Island on a historical Voyage of Discovery. Join us as we visit the site of Langdon Lime Works, the first commercial enterprise on Orcas Island; explore the body of water that Captain Wilkes of the U.S. Exploring Expedition named Ironsides Inlet (we call it East Sound); follow in the wake of Captain Vancouver’s brig ‘Chatham’ as it discovered Obstruction Pass. Search with us as we seek the long-lost Adolphus Island and Gordon Island, and help as we scan the Salish Sea for signs of Cadborosaurus, the storied sea monster last spied near Parker Reef in 1909.

Captain Dan and Denise Wilk provide excellent accommodations and first-class food and drink during the voyage, with informed commentary by local historian Tom Welch. See what drew countless generations of First Peoples to the pristine shores of Orcas Island for thousands of years, and enjoy the unique perspective a waterfront cruise offers.

The cost of $99 (+ tax) per person includes 4 to 5 hours on the seaworthy and spacious Orcas Express with her owners, Denise and Dan Wilk, featuring the historic tour, catered food and beverages, and good company.

Space on board is limited so please make a reservation in advance. Checks can be sent to Orcas Island Eclipse Charters at P.O. Box 353, Orcas, WA 98280. Call Eclipse Charters at (360) 376-6566 with credit card reservations.