Road Scholar : Home
Northwest Waterways: Seattle to Victoria BC to San Juan Island’s

Program Number: 4348RJ
Start and End Dates:
6/3/2013 - 6/12/2013; 7/8/2013 - 7/17/2013; 8/5/2013 - 8/14/2013; 8/19/2013 - 8/28/2013; 10/7/2013 - 10/16/2013;
Duration: 9 nights
Location: Seattle, Washington
Price starting at: $2,199.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: On the Road; Natural History; History & Culture
Meals: 24; 9 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 8 Dinners    
Meal Options: Low Fat; Low Salt; Vegetarian    

Navigate the Northwest’s waterways by ferry and experience three idyllic Pacific Coast communities along its shores. Our port to port explorations begin in the bustling Emerald City of Seattle and journey north to Victoria, BC, a coastal city tamed by British charm, then on to picturesque Friday Harbor, San Juan Island. Along the way we’ll uncover a unique cultural resonance that weaves together these waterside communities and look ahead to what the future holds for these three spectacular Northwest locales.




Highlights

• Experience Seattle past and present at visits to the Pike Place Market and the iconic Hiram Chittenden Locks, and a stunning new cultural history museum on the shore of Lake Union.
• Immerse yourself in botanical beauty and indulge in Afternoon Tea at the original family residence within the spectacular Butchart Gardens.
• On San Juan Island, experience its scenic natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and the unique island lifestyle in the one of the nation’s newest National Monuments.




Date Specific Information

6-3-2013

*As a bonus - while in Victoria, BC this program includes a visit to Craigdarroch Castle!



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Seattle, Wash., 3 nights; ferry to Victoria, British Columbia, 3 nights; ferry to Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, Wash., 3 nights; ferry & coach to Seattle, departure.



Coordinated by Skagit Valley College.




Seattle

Seattle is a visual gem, set amid saltwater, lakes and mountains. International influences abound in this congenial city. Unique neighborhoods, world-class cultural institutions, parks and the landmark Space Needle are just the beginning.



Victoria

This provincial capital on Vancouver Island is blessed with spectacular scenery and a mild climate year-round. Home to Butchart Gardens and the Empress Hotel, Victoria is rich in First Nations history, marine coastal ecosystems, cultural attractions and European charm that dates to its years spent under British colonial rule.



Friday Harbor (San Juan Island)

Friday Harbor is a picturesque, walkable, fishing port town nestled on the edge of the harbor. The island is home to a National Historic Park, Lime Kiln State Park (for whale-watching), plus serene harbors, farmland and outdoor opportunities.
Accommodations
Seattle: Full-service hotel downtown. Victoria: Lovely hotel at inner harbor area. San Juan Island: Modern, all-suites hotel in Friday Harbor.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Russel Barsh
A graduate of Harvard University, Russel Barsh has devoted his career to educating and advising Native peoples on land and environmental issues. He has served as an adviser to United Nations agencies as an advocate for indigenous peoples in developing countries, and worked as the science adviser to indigenous organizations participating in the "Earth Summit," carrying out field missions in South Africa and Asia. Russel serves as the director of KWIAHT, a nonprofit laboratory in the Salish Sea.
 
Michael Cohen
Michael Cohen, Ed.D. is leader of a group of musicians called “Sugar on the Floor” who perform historical music and dances from the folk traditions. Michael is a self-described innovative scientist-counselor-eco psychologist-traditional musician-naturalist. A long time outdoor educator, Michael founded Project Nature Connect, a nature connected psychological science that restores people to their fullness, their natural integrity and deeper ideals.
 
Michael Vouri
Michael Vouri is chief park interpreter and historian for San Juan Island National Park. He is a passionate historian with an unmatched knowledge of regional history and exploration. He is the author of "The Pig War," and co-author of "Images of America – Friday Harbor." Michael is well known regionally for “An Evening with George Pickett,” a critically acclaimed stage play based on a local historical figure. Mike is a long-time and very popular Road Scholar instructor.
 
Emily Reed
Emily Reed is a longtime islander who writes a monthly column on art in the Islands Weekly newspaper. She served as a college adviser at UC Berkeley in the 1960s before moving to San Juan Island, where she later worked as a high school counselor for 18 years at Friday Harbor High School. Emily is a veteran Road Scholar contributor, and has published “Emily’s Guides to the San Juan Islands,” the definitive travel information source for the region.
 
Shona Aitken
A native of Scotland, Shona Aitken earned a degree in ecology and broadened her background in environmental education while working in her home country and spending two years in Sweden. She is currently the Education Coordinator for Wolf Hollow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center on San Juan Island where she teaches people about local wildlife and increases awareness of the impact of human activities on wild creatures.
 
Kevin Loftus
Kevin Loftus is the executive director of the San Juan Historical Museum. He grew up in Chicago before attending college at Northern Arizona University. A love of cycling led Kevin to begin visiting the San Juan Islands, and after five years and many adventures, the beauty of the islands inspired him to move there. In 2008, Kevin found his dream job as director of the museum. He says he feels very fortunate to be able to share the unique history of the San Juan Islands with others.
 
John Adams
John Adams is the author of “Old Square-Toes and His Lady: The Life of James and Amelia Douglas.” Part historian and part storyteller, John has turned a passion for the past into a long career in history. His family-owned business Discover the Past provides a variety of historical educational programs for the community. His natural, lively, humorous and clear style makes his presentations both informative and memorable.
 
Paul Turmel
Paul Turmel is a retired horticulturalist from Butchart’s Gardens. While living near Boston, he trained in ornamental horticulture prior to earning a liberal arts degree. Eventually immigrating to Canada, Paul has been a resident of Victoria, British Columbia for 35 years. His career at Butchart Gardens as gardener, trainer, and specialized expert lasted more than a decade.
 
Lorraine McConaghy
Dr. Lorraine McConaghy is the public historian at the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI), in Seattle, and a lecturer in museum studies at the University of Washington. She has received numerous awards for her work, including the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching History and the Robert Gray Medal, the most distinguished award in Washington State for a historian. Her ongoing research interests are focused on the Civil War in Washington Territory.
 
Carol Barton
Carol Barton has been the coordinator for Road Scholar programs in Seattle since 1996. She is an avid reader, a local history buff, a struggling gardener, a novice birder and a pretty darned good cook. Carol learned to be a Road Scholar coordinator not only by working many years in the hotel industry, but especially by leading a Girl Scout troop. A degree in French from the University of Washington has been useful primarily in solving crossword puzzles and ordering fine food in French restaurants.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue
  Seattle 3 nights
   Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
  Victoria, British Columbia 3 nights
   Best Western Friday Harbor Suites
  Friday Harbor, San Juan Island 3 nights
 Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue
Type: Hotel
  Description: Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, close to the Pike Place Market, the central library, the Seattle Art Museum, the Seattle Aquarium, Benaroya (symphony) Hall, sports stadiums, restaurants, shopping, theaters and the monorail to the Seattle Center and the Space Needle.
  Contact info: 1415 5th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101 USA
phone: 206-971-8000 xor8003254000
web: www.seattleredlionfifthavenue.com
  Room amenities: Flat screen TV, coffeemaker, refrigerator, terry robes, Bath & Bodyworks amenities, iron/ironing board.
  Facility amenities: Exercise facility, newly-redecorated guestrooms, restaurant/lounge/terrace,concierge, business center, free wireless internet, dataports,and room service. This is an entirely non-smoking property. Road Scholar guest parking at a special rate of $15/night (6'2" clearance).
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: Call hotel directly. Please call Red Lion Central reservations 1-855-515-1144 and ask for the Elderhostel / Road Scholar rate, or rate code "EDR". If booking on-line at the hotel's website at: www.seattleredlionfifthavenue.com, on the first page, choose the drop-down for "preferred corporate," and enter the code EDR. Rates vary seasonally.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM

 Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: With our convenient location in the heart of downtown Victoria, the largest city on Vancouver Island, BC, you can take a leisurely stroll along Victoria’s famous Inner Harbour, shop for treasures on Antiques Row or make business connections in Victoria’s nearby downtown core. Just step outside the hotel doors and into the celebrated sites of downtown Victoria. Take a horse and carriage tour of Victoria with family and friends, create memories at Beacon Hill Park, the Royal BC Museum is just around the block. Take in views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. There’s so much to see and do right from the hotel doorstep! Enjoy yourself in the Royal Scot Hotel & Suite’s beautiful indoor pool, whirl pool, sauna and exercise room. Have some fun in our billiards room or gather with friends for a hand of bridge or a movie in the games room. We offer free wireless Internet access throughout the hotel. For your convenience our courtesy shuttle is available to take you anywhere within Victoria's downtown core. After a full day, rest easy in the cozy comfort of the Royal Scot Hotel & Suites and feel at home in downtown Victoria.
  Contact info: 425 Quebec Street
Victoria, BC V8V 1W7 Canada
phone: 800-663-7515
web: www.royalscot.com
  Room amenities: Rooms are large and comfortable Studio Suites with Two Queen Beds (or one Queen bed when desired), and separate sitting area. There is a privacy divider between the two areas. LCD television with cable channels and DVD player. Complimentary wireless Internet access. Free local calls. In-room safe. Complimentary newspapers. Private mini kitchen with refrigerator, stove top, microwave, and cookware/dishes/utensils. Ensuite bathroom with shower/tub combination. Bath amenities include hair dryer, makeup/shaving mirror, and complimentary toiletries. Bathrobes. Clock radio and iron/ironing board. Non-Smoking.
  Facility amenities: On-site Restaurant, Bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Non-Smoking Rooms, Elevator, Safe, Heating, Baggage Storage, All Spaces Non-Smoking (Public and Private), Sauna, Fitness Center, Game Room, Pool Table, Hot Tub, Library, Indoor Swimming Pool (all year), Room Service, Business Center, Laundry, Dry Cleaning, Souvenir/Gift Shop, Tour Desk, Fax/Photocopying, On-Site ATM Machine, Shuttle Service (free), Vending Machine (drinks), Vending Machine (snacks), Airport Shuttle (arranged for a fee). Free Wi-fi is available in the hotel rooms. Parking Public parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed) and costs approx CAD $12 per day (subject to change).
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Best Western Friday Harbor Suites
Type: Hotel
  Description: Friday Harbor Suites newly renovated all suites facility features spacious one bedroom suites, each with one queen bed plus a comfortable pullout sofa sleeper with 7" mattress in the living room. All suites include a gas fireplace in every room,full size kitchen with utensils and coffee maker; on site fine dining and lounge, and a great in town location accessible to museums, galleries, restaurants and services. Note: There are a very limited number of two bedroom/two bath suites at the Best Western Friday Harbor Suites. Those participants who are rooming with an “assigned” roommate will be give priority assignment of these suites on a space available basis.
  Contact info: 680 Spring Street
Friday Harbor, WA 98250 USA
phone: 800-752-5752
web: www.fridayharborsuites.com
  Room amenities: Each suite features a gas fireplace, kitchenette with refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, private bath, duvet comforter, 27" TV, free wireless internet, and a private patio or balcony.
  Facility amenities: Courtesy shuttle service from the ferry and airport, business center with high speed internet, free WiFi in every room, outdoor Jacuzzi spa in courtyard, exercise facility, 24-hour front desk, on site fine dining and lounge, and complimentary parking. Courtesy guest shuttle is available 7:30 am-9:00 pm.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: Varies Please contact hotel directly at 360-378-3031 or reserve additional nights through the national reservation system at 1-800-752-5752.
  Check out time: 11:00 AM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Program begins with independent arrivals to Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA between 3:30 PM and 5:00 PM. Program Reception and Orientation begin at 5 pm. You will be staying at Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue that night.
  End of Program:
Program ends with Charter Coach drops at SeaTac Airport (approx. 12:30 pm) or Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue (approx. 1:30pm),on final program day. We recommend scheduling outbound flights after 2:30 pm You will be staying at Best Western Friday Harbor Suites the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. A valid Passport is required for travel by land and sea, including ferries, to or from Canada. Please visit the Dept. of State website at: travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis_pa_tw_2223.html for the latest updates and information regarding boarder crossings.
  Parking availability:
Registered guests will be charged the standard guest rate for parking, subject to change. Please arrange for parking with the hotel front desk staff upon arrival. Current parking rate is $15 per night for Road Scholar guests.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Seattle
  Nearest city or town:  Seattle
  Nearest highway: Interstate 5
  Nearest airport:  Sea-Tac Intl Airport
  From End of Program
  Location:  Friday Harbor, San Juan Island
  Nearest city or town:  Friday Harbor
  Nearest highway: Highway 20
  Nearest airport:  Friday Harbor Airport
Travel Details
 

Arrival Day: Airport Shuttle Option

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Shuttle Express Downtown Airporter
phone: 425-981-7000

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately $18.00per person (one way)
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

30-60 minutes 
   

After arriving at SeaTac Airport, you may take a Shuttle Express Downtown Airporter shuttle bus. Tickets can be purchased where at the ticket booth where you board the bus on Level 3, Island 2 of the parking garage near the purple elevator banks. Get off the bus at the Sheraton Hotel and you will be 1 block from the Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue. The Downtowner shuttle runs approximately every half hour. Call 1-425-981-7000 for more information or visit the website www.shuttlexpress.com.
 

Arrival Day: Light Rail Option

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Public Transportation
LINK Light Rail
phone: 888-889-6368

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$3
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

30-45 minutes 
   

You may take LINK light rail from the Sea-Tac Airport. At the airport kiosk select fare going from Sea-Tac Airport to Westlake Station. Kiosks accept cash or credit card. Schedules run about every 10-15 minutes from 5am to 12am. At Westlake Station; exit train; take elevator from the platform to the street level. At street level, go northeast on Pine Street toward 5th Avenue. Turn right on 5th Avenue, hotel is on the right at 1415 5th Avenue. Total walk is approx. 1.5 blocks.
 

Final Day of Program

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Complimentary Charter Coach

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Complimentary
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

3 hours 
   

Complimentary charter coach service is provided to the group on the final morning of the program. The charter coach will arrive at SeaTac airport at approximately 12:30 pm. Please schedule flights out of Seattle after 2:30 p.m. to ensure that you arrive on time for your flight. After dropping all departing guests at SeaTac International Airport, the charter coach returns to the Red Lion on 5th, for those extending their stay in the Seattle area (approximate return to Red Lion on 5th is 1:30pm)
 
Driving Directions
  I-5 Northbound Take Interstate 5 to Seneca Street Exit. Turn right on 4th Avenue. Take first right onto Pike Street. Turn right on 5th Avenue. Entrance to hotel one-half block on the right
  I-5 Southbound Take Interstate 5 to Union Street Exit. Turn right on 4th Avenue and go one block. Turn right on Pike Street and go one block. Turn right on 5th Avenue. Entrance to hotel one-half block on the right.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Welcome and Orientation
(Monday, June 3)
   
 Afternoon: Program registration 4:00-5:00 PM. Welcome reception and orientation program begins at 5:00 PM.
 Dinner: Dinner will be served in our hotel conference room. We'll enjoy Mediterranean-crusted salmon; starburst salad, Israeli couscous, tagine vegetables, artisan breads & butter, coffee and hot tea.
 Evening: Welcome, get acquainted activities, and "Seattle Beat" introduction.
   
Accommodations: Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Hiram Chittenden Locks / Museum of History and Industry
(Tuesday, June 4)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast will be served in our hotel conference room. The breakfast buffet features assorted danish, pastries, muffins, scones and breakfast breads, sliced seasonal fruit, whole fruit, yogurt, cold cereals, milk, coffee, hot tea.
 Morning: Our morning begins with a field trip to the Hiram Chittenden Locks. The Locks in Ballard are a complex of locks that sit in the middle of Salmon Bay, part of Seattle's Lake Washington Ship Canal. They are known locally as the Ballard Locks after the neighborhood to their north. The locks and associated facilities serve three purposes: to maintain the water level of the fresh water Lake Washington and Lake Union; to prevent the mixing of sea water from Puget Sound with the fresh water of the lakes (saltwater intrusion); to move boats from the water level of the lakes to the water level of Puget Sound, and vice versa.
 Lunch: Special seafood lunch at a local restaurant on the Seattle waterfront.
 Afternoon: City excursion continues to points of historical and cultural interest, including the Museum of History and Industry. MOHAI has grown to become the largest private heritage organization in the State of Washington. Its engaging exhibits and programs, its collection of nearly 4 million historic artifacts, archives and photographs, and its award-winning educational programs have created an appreciation for the Northwest's diverse cultural, social and economic history. In 2013, MOHAI reopened in its new location on Lake Union, in the heart of Seattle. MOHAI is accredited by The Alliance of American Museums and is a Smithsonian Affiliate.
 Dinner: Dinner will be served in our hotel conference room. We'll enjoy Rigatoni chicken pesto; seasonal vegetables; artisan breads & butter, chef's choice dessert, coffee and hot tea.
 Evening: Presentation on how Seattle's innovative spirit and eagerness to meet the challenges have shaped the city and region to what we see today.
   
Accommodations: Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Pike Place Market / Pioneer Square / Klondike Gold Rush Museum and National Park
(Wednesday, June 5)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast will be served in our hotel conference room. The breakfast buffet features assorted danish, pastries, muffins, scones and breakfast breads, sliced seasonal fruit, whole fruit, yogurt, cold cereals, milk, coffee, hot tea.
 Morning: Presentation on the history of Pike Place Market. Following, enjoy a walking field trip to experience and explore the market. Our guided walk will include “seldom seen spots” along the way, as we take in the aromas, the sights, the culture and creativity, and of course the “flying fish” that have made Pike Place one of the nation’s most popular market sites.
 Lunch: Enjoy lunch on your own. With over 40 restaurants to choose from at Pike Place Market, there’s something for every palate!
 Afternoon: Field trip continues to explore Historic Pioneer Square. Pioneer Square takes its name from a small triangular plaza near the corner of First Avenue and Yesler Way, originally known as Pioneer Place. The Pioneer Square-Skid Road Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, Pioneer Square is home to art galleries, internet companies, cafés, sports bars, nightclubs, bookstores, and a unit of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park (one of the smallest National Parks in the Nation). Late afternoon provides some free time to explore on your own. Nearby free time possibilities include: Space Needle, EMP Project Music Experience, Gates Visitor’s Center, Century 21 Exhibit, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass Exhibit.
 Dinner: Enjoy family-style Japanese cuisine at dinner out at a nearby local restaurant that has been a landmark in Seattle for 30 years.
   
Accommodations: Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Travel to Victoria, BC aboard the Victoria Clipper Passenger Ferry/Royal BC Provincial Museum
(Thursday, June 6)
   
 Breakfast: We’ll start early by packing our breakfast boxes to go, and enjoy breakfast aboard the Victoria Clipper. Hot coffee or tea will be available on board the Victoria Clipper.
 Morning: Travel to Victoria, BC aboard the Victoria Clipper passenger ferry. Our three hour cruise will provide ample opportunity for wonderful water vistas along the way.
 Lunch: Lunch upon arrival at “Jonathan’s” Restaurant in the Royal Scot Hotel & Suites. Lunch will feature a buffet with two choices of soup, green salad with house dressing, Jonathan's Caesar salad, macaroni salad, roast beef sandwiches, turkey sandwiches, veggie sandwiches with white and brown bread plus coffee, iced tea or tea.
 Afternoon: Field trip on foot to the Royal BC Provincial Museum. Explore the museum's treasures through its unique galleries. The Museum showcases the human and natural history of British Columbia, and features periodic exhibitions of international renown. Highly realistic and inviting displays, such as the Ice Age and Coastal Forest dioramas, provide visitors with a sense of having truly experienced the authentic settings of many exhibits. Walk back to the Royal Scot Hotel & Suites to check-in.
 Dinner: Tonight's dinner features your choice of: Seafood fettuccine OR Meatloaf with vegetables, mashed potatoes and gravy, green salad with house dressing and a fresh fruit cup dessert plus coffee, iced tea or tea
 Evening: Join the group leader for an optional guided city walk around the Inner Harbour (a great chance to see the lights of the Inner Harbour at night!).
   
Accommodations: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: BC History Presentation / "Behind the Scenes at Butchart's" / Parliament Building
(Friday, June 7)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast buffet at “Jonathan’s” Restaurant in the Royal Scot Hotel & Suites features scrambled eggs, bacon, pan fried potatoes, fresh fruit, yogurt, mini-muffins, toast, orange juice coffee, iced tea or tea
 Morning: During morning presentations, we'll learn about Victoria's history and gain an insider's view of seasonal highlights to come at Butcharts Gardens.
 Lunch: Special "behind the scenes" lunch in the Legislative Dining room within the Parliament Building. One of Victoria's best-kept dining secrets (and far from being a simple pit stop between debates) the subterranean eatery is a delightful, silver-service restaurant showcasing the best in regional ingredients. Choose from a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads with coffee, tea or hot tea.
 Afternoon: Guided exploration of the Parliament Building. The capital city of Victoria is where the BC Provincial Government assembles to make the laws and decisions of our province and it is also where the legislation assemblies are held. Your guide will take you behind the scenes of the rich history that this spectacular building holds.
 Dinner: Tonight's dinner will be Baked halibut in a seafood cream sauce (sauce on side by request) with rice, vegetables and Jonathan's Caesar salad, chocolate mousse plus coffee, iced tea or tea. Vegetarian alternative by advance request.
 Evening: Evening presentation- with an insider's perspective to contemporary life and culture of Victoria's "James Bay" neighborhood.
   
Accommodations: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Butchart Gardens / Craigdarroch Castle / Evening free time
(Saturday, June 8)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast buffet features scrambled eggs, bacon, pan fried potatoes, fresh fruit, yogurt, mini-muffins, toast, orange juice coffee, iced tea or tea
 Morning: Board motor coach for the world famous Butchart Gardens, home to 55 acres of beautiful floral displays divided into four main gardens. Upon arrival, enjoy self explorations and then meet up with the group for Afternoon Tea.
 Lunch: Indulge in the traditional midday gathering "Afternoon Tea" hosted in the original Butchart family residence. From the Dining Room enjoy spectacular views of the Private Garden, the Italian Garden and Tod Inlet. Your "Afternoon Tea" features savory tea sandwiches; traditional delicacies such as sausage rolls and quiche; berry trifle; numerous house-made sweets; scones; and choice of tea or coffee.
 Afternoon: On our return to the Inner Harbour, we'll visit one of Victoria's well-known landmarks, Craigdarroch Castle. Built in the 1890's as a family residence for wealthy coal baron, Robert Dunsmuir, this extravagant historic mansion gives a glimpse to Victorian lifestyles of the era. At the castle, relish the granite and oak detailing and extensive collection of stained glass windows. From the castle's tower, enjoy a spectacular view of the city and the Olympics. Special note: Historic Craigdarroch Castle does not have ramps or elevators. Upper floors of the mansion are accessible only by stairs.
 Dinner: Dinner on own to experience Victoria's rich dining options! Your group leader will provide you with a list of nearby options.
 Evening: Free evening to relax in your room; enjoy the hotel's pool or game rooms or enjoy an evening walk around the harbour.
   
Accommodations: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Washington State Ferry from Sidney BC to San Juan Island / The Whale Museum
(Sunday, June 9)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast buffet features scrambled eggs, bacon, pan fried potatoes, fresh fruit, yogurt, mini-muffins, toast, orange juice coffee, iced tea or tea
 Morning: Board motor coach for Sidney, BC and the ferry dock where you will clear customs/immigration and board the ferry bound for San Juan Island. Then, board the Washington State Ferry for Scenic trip across the Haro Strait into the San Juan Archipelago and arrive in Friday Harbor,San Juan Island.
 Lunch: Enjoy a box lunch on board the Washington State Ferry as you sail toward Friday Harbor, San Juan Island.
 Afternoon: Welcome and Orientation activities in Friday Harbor. Followed by a presentation highlighting island culture over time, with emphasis on current issues facing the islands. We'll round out the afternoon with a visit to The Whale Museum. Late afternoon check-in available upon return to hotel.
 Dinner: Our dinners are served buffet style so that you choose what works for you. Tonight’s dinner features NW green salad, home-made lasagna (choose from meat or veggie lasagna), and garlic bread – topped off with coffee, tea, iced tea, water and dessert of the day.
 Evening: Enjoy a free evening to relax at the hotel or enjoy a stroll the seaside town of Friday Harbor.
   
Accommodations: Best Western Friday Harbor Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: San Juan Island National Historic Park/British Camp/Roche Harbor Sculpture Park/Lime Kiln Point State Park.
(Monday, June 10)
   
 Breakfast: Continental Breakfast Buffet: featuring a variety of fresh fruits, assorted hot/cold cereals, assorted breakfast breads (toast, English muffin, bagel, etc.), cottage cheese, boiled eggs, coffee, tea, juice.
 Morning: Morning activity begins with a presentation on "Wildlife of San Juan Islands" from a wildlife rehabilitation expert. A guest artist appearance follows during a presentation showcasing the creative and artistic spirits are abundant in these islands. Before lunch, we'll walk to the San Juan Historical Museum to explore and learn how islanders have adapted to life in the islands over time.
 Lunch: Have lunch the way you like it! Lunch will be served buffet-style and features a soup of the day with salad bar (including green leaf / spinach salad, a variety of fresh raw veggies, potato salad, three bean salad, and more) – topped off with coffee, tea, iced, water and dessert of the day.
 Afternoon: Field Trip to Lime Kiln Point State Park, one of the best places in the world to view whales from a land and home to Orca research outpost and lighthouse. We'll continue on to San Juan Island National Historic Park- British Camp with historical, cultural and scenic interest. At our final destination at the northern tip of the island, you'll have a choice to visit either the historic Roche Harbor Village (with its lovely marina and English gardens) or visit the Westcott Bay Sculpture Park (where you can view hundreds of outdoor sculptures thoughtfully placed amidst acres of quiet forests, wetlands, meadows and rocky outcroppings).
 Dinner: Our dinners are served buffet style so that you choose what works for you. Tonight’s dinner features NW green salad, grilled chicken, steamed veggies, and red potatoes or rice – topped off with coffee, tea, iced tea, water and dessert of the day.
 Evening: Rousing presentation on regional exploration and island history.
   
Accommodations: Best Western Friday Harbor Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: San Juan Island Excursion/Farewell Music Program
(Tuesday, June 11)
   
 Breakfast: Continental Breakfast Buffet: featuring a variety of fresh fruits, assorted hot/cold cereals, assorted breakfast breads (toast, English muffin, bagel, etc.), cottage cheese, boiled eggs, coffee, tea, juice.
 Morning: Begin the morning with a presentation by local expert with perspective on Coast Salish Native History in the Islands.
 Lunch: Have lunch the way you like it! Lunch will be served buffet-style and features a soup of the day with salad bar (including green leaf / spinach salad, a variety of fresh raw veggies, potato salad, three bean salad, and more) – topped off with coffee, tea, iced, water and dessert of the day.
 Afternoon: Enjoy a field study excursion around the south end of San Juan Island to points of historical, cultural, and natural significance including a "behind-the-scenes" look at a unique lavender farm, and American Camp National Park . A late afternoon return to the hotel allows for free time to explore the sights and sounds of Friday Harbor.
 Dinner: Our dinners are served buffet style so that you choose what works for you. Tonight’s dinner features NW green salad, prawns & scallops (in sun-dried tomato pesto), penne pasta and steamed veggies– topped off with coffee, tea, iced tea, water and dessert of the day.
 Evening: Special farewell music program; live historic folk music featuring homespun songs and stories from people who built America while living a simpler life. This unusual and irreverent collection of songs conveys remote history through toe-tapping music.
   
Accommodations: Best Western Friday Harbor Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Departure Day
(Wednesday, June 12)
   
 Breakfast: Continental Breakfast Buffet: featuring a variety of fresh fruits, assorted hot/cold cereals, assorted breakfast breads (toast, English muffin, bagel, etc.), cottage cheese, boiled eggs, coffee, tea, juice. Breakfast is early today, so that we may catch the departing ferry.
 Morning: Depart Friday Harbor, San Juan Island via the Washington State ferry and chartered motor coach. Program concludes in Seattle with drop off at SeaTac International airport(approximately 12:30pm) or the Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue,Seattle mid-day on final day of the program. We recommend scheduling outbound flights after 2:30 pm.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Seattle Chihuly Garden and Glass
During Seattle free time, many visit Chihuly Garden and Glass, a new art experience showcasing the most significant works of internationally acclaimed artist and pioneer Dale Chihuly. For additional information, visit www.chihulygardenandglass.com/
  Seattle Space Needle
An iconic place to visit during Seattle free time is the Space Needle. The Space Needle was built on a 120' x 120' lot formerly owned by the city of Seattle, which was sold to investors for $75,000 in 1961, just one year before the opening of the World's Fair. For additional information, visit www.spaceneedle.com
  Visitor's Guide
Seattle Convention and Visitors Bureau For additional information, visit www.visitseattle.org
  Victoria, British Columbia Victoria Visitor's Guide
Victoria visitor's guide. For additional information, visit www.tourismvictoria.com
  Friday Harbor, San Juan Island San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce
San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce For additional information, visit www.sanjuanisland.org
  San Juan Visitor's Bureau
San Juan Island Visitor's Guide For additional information, visit www.visitsanjuans.com
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


Friday Harbor


Author: Mike Vouri, San Juan Historical Society, Julia Vouri


Description: A book that reviews the rich history and residents of Friday Harbor throughout the past 100 years.



North Puget Sound: Afoot and Afloat


Author: Marge & Ted Mueller


Description: An insiders guide to the North Puget Sound region of Washington State.



Old-Square-Toes and His Lady: The Life of James and Amelia Douglas


Author: John Adams


Description: John Adam's bestseller Old Square-Toes and His Lady: The Life of James and Amelia Douglas serves as an important source of information regarding the first Governor of British Columbia. At the pinnacle of his career, Douglas was knighted by order of Queen Victoria. Considering his modest, mixed-race beginnings in South America, his lofty status is, indeed, remarkable. Equally so is the life of his wife, Amelia. She was also of mixed blood, her mother being Cree and her father Irish. But unlike Douglas, who was educated in Scotland, she never left the northern forests until they married. Their ending up as a knight and lady of the British Empire was an unusual achievement. Old Square-Toes discusses the Douglas's' diverse experiences of astonishing contrasts, from crossing North America by canoe to touring Europe by train, from Native uprisings to the frantic gold rush. Besides finding glory, they also faced grief in losing seven of their beloved children. This is a story of the adventure, heartbreak, and devotion that lies at the roots of western Canada. Author, historian and heritage enthusiast John Adams is well known in Victoria. A regional manager for BC Heritage, he also lectures in museum studies at the University of Victoria. ISBN 0-920663-77-X



The Curve of Time: The Classic Memoir of a Woman and Her Children Who Explored the Coastal Waters of the Pacific Northwest


Author: M. Wylie Blanchet


Description: After her husband died in 1927, leaving her with five small children, everyone expected the struggles of single motherhood on a remote island to overcome M. Wylie Blanchet. Instead, this courageous woman became one of the pioneers of “family travel,” acting as both mother and captain of the twenty-five-foot boat that became her family’s home during the long Northwest summers. Blanchet’s lyrically written account reads like fantastic fiction, but her adventures are all very real. There are dangers—rough water, bad weather, wild animals—but there are also the quiet respect and deep peace of a woman teaching her children the wonder and awesome depth of the natural world.





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