By Jeff on 12/15/2008 11:37 AM

As someone that spend many years of my youth exploring the San Juan Islands (U.S.) and Gulf Islands (Canada), I'm not surprised that the region has quickly become a popular bareboat charter destination. With protected waters, hundreds of anchorages, lush, green foliage, and many quirky and quaint towns to visit, it is without question an ideal cruising area with something to do for everyone.

One of the more popular destinations in the San Juan Islands is Roche Harbor. Featuring one of the larger marinas, a large bay with good holding, and a collection of restaurants, spa options, and more, it just offers so much to do. It's also host to some pretty famous parties - specifically 4th of July. It's also usually quite warm in the summer and has some pretty cool traditions, such as the retiring of the colors each evening.

However, with the frigid blast of cold hitting the Pacific Northwest this past weekend, it cast a very different look on an otherwise warm and cheery place!

Actually, it might be hard to imagine for some of the sunseekers (like myself) but cruising the San Juans in the winter is quite enjoyable. Despite the colder temperatures, it's strikingly beautiful and features relatively decent weather due to residing in a rain shadow that keeps it drier than areas further south such as Seattle. It's also very quiet (possibly too quiet - you might find some services closed down for the winter months so check ahead) and is certainly far away from the rat race of major cities.

(photo courtesy of Roche Harbor Resort and Islandcam.com)