We just spent a glorious late afternoon trip on the Peniel with Captain David. We were under sail for much of the trip enjoying just the sound of the wind in the sails and the Peniel slicing through the water. After a couple of hours sailing Captain David steered us directly in sight of a traveling pod of Orcas which we were able to observe for about 90 minutes. They put on a magnificent show. Based on the radio traffic we could hear it appears we were the only boat saw the Orcas that evening. We then sailed back to port and were able to witness a beautiful sunset on the trip in. Captain David is a very patient and knowledgeable individual taking time to answer all of our questions on the Orca, the wildlife and his sail boat (which has an interesting history). His sailing skills put were great and at no time did it seem like we were enjoying anything other than a smooth ride. This was the most enjoyable charter I have taken in over 20+ previous sea voyages. Great and a great captain!
Orcas and the sunset
We celebrated my boyfriend's 40th birthday with a trip to San Juan Island. From the moment we arrived on the ferry we saw David's boat and the sign 'Let's go sailing'. We knew we had to go out on his birthday. What an awesome trip! We called and were able to arrange a sunset sail, a little worried about our timeline for the day I mentioned that we might need time to get dinner before departing, David not only said that we could bring dinner with us, but said that he had just added a new grill to his boat and that we'd be welcome to cook on board or that he could cook for us.... Wow! Really? Could it get any better than this? We are both foodies and cook professionally. So of course we jumped at the chance to not only sail off into the sunset but also cook and eat a gourmet meal too. Honestly this was the highlight of our trip, we didn't see much wind but that didn't bother any of us this night, the sunset was spectacular, the food delicious and the company couldn't be beat!! We will definitely be back. Thanks again David for a perfect trip.
Best Birthday Ever!!!
I spent a wonderful afternoon last year on Captain David's sail boat. We saw orcas breaching, eagles, and seals. It was an absolutely amazing experience and I recommend this to everyone out there. I've been on several whale watching tours with different companies, but All Aboard Sailing is simply the best. Captain David makes each tour a unique experience, he is very knowledgable and truly cares about the people on board. You come as a guest, and leave as a friend.
Sailing in the San Juans
We recently had the pleasure of experiencing a chartered sailing aboard the Peniel, captained by David Howitt of All Aboard Sailing. Captain David is knowledgeable, ethical and accommodating. Our reasonably priced, six hour excursion included two hours of following a transient pod of Orca whales (from a respectful distance), visiting a sea lion haul-out, enjoying the beautiful scenery, steering the Peniel, and going ashore to Yellow Island to see the abundance of spectacular native wildflowers in bloom. Without a doubt, those six hours were the highlight of our four day stay on San Juan Island. We were scheduled for an afternoon sailing, however, David contacted us in the morning to inform us that there were Orca whales near Friday Harbour and that he would take us out immediately if it worked with our schedule. If you are visiting San Juan Island, we highly recommend chartering a sailing excursion with Captain David Howitt of All Aboard Sailing!
Orcas and Yellow Island
It was a very relaxing trip on Captain David’s sail boat! There was plenty of room for our whole group. He was very accommodating to our needs and was available by phone when I had questions about the trip. The day turned out to be beautiful and we even got to see a whale! I highly recommend sailing with Captain David. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience!
Birthday sailing trip
Being an off the beaten path traveler, I don't usually like to share my amazing local finds. I want to keep them all to myself but this find is just too good to keep secret. One crown jewel of the San Juan Islands is All Aboard Sailing.
A Spectacular San Juan Island Must Do
Dave took our group out for a day of sailing in the beautiful San Juan Islands. He was so knowledgeable about the area and the wildlife, and we were treated with sightings of seals, sea lions, and killer whales. He knew exactly where to wait and watch these animals, and we even had a killer whale swim right under our boat! Will never forget such a memorable day on the water, thanks again for such a great trip!
Best day on the water with Captain Dave!
I had a wonderful time sailing with Captain Dave on a trip from San Juan Island to Lopez Island. It was my first time sailing and Captain Dave made it a worthwhile and fun adventure. I learned a lot about sailing, saw beautiful wildlife and took in the spectacular views of the islands. All Aboard Sailing was an All Around Fabulous experience.
Fabulous Sailing Adventure
It's been a while since we took our day trip, but there's not a week goes by that my 11-year old son doesn't talk about it. Between the seals, sea lions porpoises, an incredible close up with some transient orcas, and the incredible scenery, it was day to remember. Captain David is clearly a capable sailor, but he's also an excellent tour guide and a very friendly, genuine person. He made quite an impression on both me and my son (who's now enrolled in sailing lessons and is determined to captain his own boat on day!). All in all, a wonderful, memorable experience, I highly recommend!
An amazing day
In September of 2013 I had the most amazing time cruising the San Juans for three nights with David Howitt and All Aboard Sailing Charters.
Really beautiful boat and David is the most friendly, capable and knowledgeable captain. Learned so much about the islands and their wildlife from him. We got to visit the Wooden Boat Festival in Port Townsend then cruise the northern islands in search of Orcas. David boat "Peniel" -is smooth and sturdy -would make a great base for a film project or perfect for a unique getaway. Can't wait to get back up there
Magical journey through the San Juans
Captain David has always been very flexible and accommodated whatever cruise or expedition I have thought up. He cares immensely for his guests safety and comfort, and freely shares his vast knowledge of sailing and maritime lore with all aboard. He is my go to for exploring the waters of the San Juans.
My Go-to for exploring the waters of the San Juan Islands!
We had a fantastic time sailing with Captain David. We've sailed with him three times, including one starlit evening cruise where we were surrounded by Orca whales! David took us ashore at Lime Kiln to hike and explore old kilns and to Yellow Island which was covered in wildflowers. David is a very knowledgable wildlife and natural history guide. The boat is beautiful and comfortable. This is a must-do activity when you are visiting the San Juan Islands.
Wonderful Boat and Great Captain
The charm of the vessel and the charm of the surroundings blended to make one of the finest recipes. Sailing with David is a must.
Exciting Adventure
Captain David reefed the main and adjusted the sheets and we had a blast rail-down in the winter winds. We were the only boat on the water slicing down the San Juan channel under a peeking sun and a glorious rainbow. Thanks, David.
Double reefed and ready
I went on the ship with Captain David back in November and had just an absolute blast! Since it was my first time sailing, David made sure to go over a lot of the details to ensure that I had a fantastic experience. I would definitely sail with All Aboard Sailing again and look forward to the next time I get to!
Fantastic sailing experience
I went sailing with a group of friends on Captain David's sailboat (All Aboard Sailing) and had a wonderful time! Captain David let some of us help out and showed us how to steer, he took us to a smaller island where we got to hike around, he pointed out wild life, he made us all juice and was more than happy to listen to our wants and try to cater to them. It was one of those experiences that you just don't want to end. I would do it again in a heart beat. Thank you Captain David!
sailing was paradise
My friends and I went sailing on Captain David's sailing boat last month, and we had the time of our lives! Captain David is very friendly and extremely knowledgeable of the San Juan Islands. He caters the experience to what the client would like to see and do. I have recommended this company to several family members and friends.
Highlight of My Vacation
This was my very first experience sailing in the San Juan Islands. It was the most serene and surreal eperience ive ever had. David was very infomative on sailing and on the marine life He made me feel at home on his boat. He is an amazing man. It was the best vacation ive ever had!
The Serenity of Sailing