DECEPTION PASS
- Latitude: 48.3997
- Longitude: -122.628
- West Coast Canada
- Marina in US
Address: Oak Harbor WA US
Deception Pass is a strait separating Whidbey Island from Fidalgo Island in the northwest part of the U.S. state of Washington. It is a narrow, turbulent waterway renowned for its stunning natural beauty and challenging navigation conditions. Here are the key details and specifications:
Location
- Coordinates: Approximately 48°24'48"N latitude and 122°38'43"W longitude.
- Region: Puget Sound area, part of the larger Salish Sea network.
Characteristics
- Length: About 4 miles (6 kilometers).
- Width: Varies between 300 feet (91 meters) and 1,000 feet (305 meters).
- Depth: Depths can vary significantly but the channel is relatively deep, accommodating vessels with a draft of up to about 50 feet (15 meters) in certain areas.
Navigational Features
Currents: Strong tidal currents, which can reach up to 8 knots, making navigation challenging.
Bridges: The Deception Pass Bridge spans the strait and connects Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island. The two-span bridge is approximately 1,487 feet (453 meters) long and stands 180 feet (55 meters) above the water.
Facilities and Services
Marinas: Nearby marinas are available on Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands for smaller vessels, although there are no major commercial port facilities directly at Deception Pass.
Anchorages: Limited sheltered anchorages close to the strait due to strong currents and narrow passages.
Navigation Aids: The U.S. Coast Guard maintains several buoys and beacons to aid in navigation through Deception Pass.
Surrounding Area
Deception Pass State Park: This is one of Washington State's most visited parks, offering hiking, camping, and boating opportunities. The park provides beautiful views of the pass and the surrounding San Juan Islands.
Wildlife: The area is rich in marine life, including seals, porpoises, and a variety of seabirds.
Usage
Commercial Traffic: Limited due to the challenging navigation conditions and lack of significant port facilities.
Recreational Boating: Popular among experienced boaters and sailors who are well-aware of the strong currents and potential hazards.
Important Considerations
Safety Precautions: Vessels navigating Deception Pass should have an experienced crew and consult tide and current tables.
Environmental Sensitivity: As a part of the Pacific Northwest coastal ecosystem, the area is environmentally sensitive and governed by strict regulations to protect its natural resources.
Historical Context
Naming: Named by Captain George Vancouver, who felt deceived by the misleading appearance of the intricate waterway.
Cultural Significance: Historically significant to local Native American tribes who have navigated these waters for centuries.
The combination of natural beauty and navigational challenge makes Deception Pass a notable feature in Washington State's maritime landscape.
Vessels in the port
Flag | Name | Type | Destination | Date/Time |
---|---|---|---|---|
V70 | Other | 9/20/2024 | ||
CAIRYLEY | Pleasure | 9/19/2024 | ||
SEAHAWK | Pleasure | 9/19/2024 | ||
NWFR_M22 | Port | 9/19/2024 | ||
NWFR M21 | Port | 9/19/2024 | ||
ABBIE VISTA | Pleasure | 9/18/2024 | ||
UNKNOWN | Passenger | 9/15/2024 | ||
LE REVE | Sailing | 9/14/2024 | ||
ALYESKA | Pleasure | 9/13/2024 | ||
PARTNERSHIP | Pleasure | 9/11/2024 | ||
AMORGOS BLUE | Sailing | 9/11/2024 | ||
MAGIC BUS | Pleasure | 9/10/2024 | ||
REEF'S END | Pleasure | 9/9/2024 | ||
FREMONT | Fishing | 9/9/2024 | ||
GYPSEAEXPLORER | Sailing | 9/7/2024 | ||
RAVEN | Pleasure | 9/7/2024 | ||
MISS MERYL | Pleasure | 9/6/2024 | ||
BLUE HAWK | Pleasure | 9/6/2024 | ||
KESTREL | Sailing | 9/6/2024 | ||
WATERFRONT | Pleasure | 9/5/2024 | ||
SWAN-C | Pleasure | 9/4/2024 | ||
HAWKS NEST | Pleasure | 9/4/2024 | ||
CHANNEL SURFING | Pleasure | 9/4/2024 | ||
THUNDERBIRD | Other | 9/3/2024 | ||
LITTLE MOMENTS | Pleasure | 9/2/2024 |