Salish Sea Tour Co. is set to launch a new “experience-driven” tour service in May on Orcas Island. The tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at life on the island. Two daily tours: “Art, History and Local Legends” and “Fresh Fermented and Flying High” have fascinating goals. One will showcase local artisans and history, the other will showcase the acclaimed food and drink culture of Orcas Island.
Tour participants will enjoy experiences inaccessible to the everyday tourist, from a lesson on ocean sustainability and oyster shelling at Buck Bay Shellfish; tasting the fruits and herbs used to produce homemade jams and lotions; visit farms that supply produce to local restaurants. It is the only Orcas Island travel agency that comes close to offering a ground-level introduction to the island community.
“I am delighted to open this business on the island where I grew up,” said Cole Sisson, owner of Salish Sea Tour Co. “Having had the opportunity to travel the world – to experience the culture and hospitality from amazing people – I can’t express how exciting it is to come home and give others a vehicle to see the magic of island life.
A new 12-passenger Mercedes Benz sprinter van with high ceilings and air conditioning is the ideal form of transportation for sightseeing. On board, coolers provide storage for oysters, farm-fresh vegetables, or the local beer producer that you may wish to purchase during your visit.
Your guides will be longtime locals, well versed in the island’s history and community. Friendly and professional, they will bring a high level of hospitality to the day and will also answer questions based on years of living in the San Juan Islands.
In addition to the daily tours, Salish Sea Tour Co will offer a wide range of services including private charters, wedding services and executive retreat shuttles. Offers can be viewed and booked online at www.salishseatourco.net.
“If anyone has any comments, suggestions, recommendations or concerns, please contact me directly at [email protected]. We will build sustainability and stewardship into every stop, but I want to make sure we’re not neglecting anything, ”said Sisson.
