RBAW Monthly Newsletter

Special Summer Edition

- July 2025 -

This special edition of the RBAW newsletter is all about you—our incredible community of members. From Yacht and Boating Clubs to Contributing Business Members, and our Individual Members, your support powers everything we do. You make RBAW’s mission to protect and promote recreational boating in Washington possible. Thank you.

Below, you’ll find the businesses and clubs that have invested in RBAW, our MVPs of Washington’s boating community.  These are our partners in keeping Washington’s boating future bright, they believe in boating, the future of our waterways . . and you, the recreational boater.  

If you're looking for services, products, or a community to plug into, 

start here!

Book with them. Shop with them. Join them.

They’ve stepped up for us. Let’s show them we notice.

Let them know we appreciate their support.

We are RBAW—because of you.

Contributing Business Members

Argo is the new must-have navigation app for PNW boaters! Whether you're cruising Puget Sound or exploring the San Juan Islands, Argo helps you find the best routes, stay on top of currents and tides, discover top marinas and anchorages and stay in touch with buddy boaters. 

With an RBAW Individual Membership, you get 25% off Premium! (You'll find the code on your RBAW membership card)


Try it now on your phone, tablet, or laptop.

The Boat Insurance Agency is an independent agency representing the best marine insurance companies! They carefully compare a number of policies to find the lowest premiums and best values for your boat insurance needs. Request an insurance quote and learn more!

GET A QUOTE


Boat Owners Association of The United States help boaters get more out of boating…more freedom, more savings and more information. A BoatUS Unlimited Towing Membership is the best value & lowest-priced towing service available - Take TowBoatUS with you on the water, and their 25+ benefits and services help make boating better. 

With an RBAW Individual Membership, you get 10% off an Unlimited Towing Package! (You'll find the discount code on your RBAW membership card)

View their products and services HERE.

CSR Marine has been serving Puget Sound boaters since 1977With an excellent reputation as leaders in marine repairs and installations, they have the most experienced crew of NMEA and ABYC certified technicians in the area with extensive experience in insurance and complex repairs.

Call them today at 206-632-2001 for a free estimate

or visit them at csrmarine.com.

Your premier moorage destination on the Puget Sound! At Elliott Bay Marina, they offer secure, full-service moorage with modern amenities, a full service fuel dock and panoramic views of the Seattle skyline and Olympic Mountains. 

With an RBAW Individual Membership,you get $0.10 off per gallon of fuel (gas or diesel), and can be combined with volume discounts (min 200 gallons).

Call them today at 206-285-4817 for moorage availability

or visit their website at elliottbaymarina.co.

Whether you're buying your dream boat or listing a vessel for sale, Elliott Bay Yacht Sales brings trusted expertise and a personal touch to every transaction. Located in the heart of Seattle's boating community, their experienced team has helped Pacific Northwest boaters navigate purchases and sales with confidence for over 40 years. From luxury yachts to quality cruising boats, they’re known for integrity, market knowledge, and exceptional service. If you’re looking to get on the water—or move on to your next chapter—they’re ready to help make it happen.


Call them today at 206-285-9563 or visit them at elliottbayyachtsales.com.

Foss Harbor Marina is a located in the heart of Tacoma’s Thea Foss Waterway and a favorite “full service marina” among South Sound boaters. With 400+ slips, live aboard moorage, fuel and pumpout services, and a fully stocked marina store, it offers everything you need—just steps from downtown restaurants, shops, and museums.

Call them today at 253-272-4404 for moorage availability

or visit them at fossharbormarina.com.


It’s boating, simplified!!

Want to enjoy boating without the hassle of ownership? Freedom Boat Club makes it easy. With multiple locations across Puget Sound—including Seattle, Kirkland, Olympia and more—members get unlimited access to a fleet of well-maintained boats, plus free training and support.

Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just getting started, they offer a flexible way to get on the water – just a reserve boat, no maintenance, no moorage, no worries.

Visit their website HERE.

Known for its legacy of custom yacht building - today they’re also the go-to destination for refit and repair services in the Pacific Northwest. Located in Tacoma, Nordlund offers a full range of services—from structural repairs and repowers to interior remodels, paint, and systems upgrades.

With decades of experience and a skilled in-house team, they bring the same craftsmanship and attention to detail to every project, whether it’s routine maintenance or a full-scale refit. Boaters trust Nordlund to keep their vessels in top condition—on schedule, and done right.

Call them today at 253-627-0605 for a free quotation

or visit them at nordlundboat.com.

Now in its 47th year, the Northwest Boat Travel Cruising Guide is a must-have for any Pacific Northwest boater. They cover cruising destinations from Olympia to Southeast Alaska, with detailed marina listings, local insights, and practical tips to make your voyages smoother and more enjoyable.

Whether you're planning a summer adventure or a weekend getaway, let them help you discover new ports, hidden gems, and reliable services along the way.

With an RBAW Individual Membership,you get the Guide at their cost! To get the member discount, email info@vernonpublications.com or call 425-488-3211.

Visit them at nwboat.com

OnBuoy is revolutionizing moorage in Puget Sound with a simple and sustainable option. They make it simple to reserve private buoys, docks, and slips through an easy-to-use app. Boaters can search, book, and pay for moorage in minutes—no anchoring, no hassle. All locations are professionally maintained, and choosing a buoy helps protect sensitive marine habitats. With listings from the San Juans to South Sound, they offer flexible options for overnight stays or day trips.

Visit onbuoy.com or download the app to get started.

Pacific Power Group is a trusted name in marine power throughout Puget Sound. As an authorized dealer for Volvo Penta, Yanmar, MTU and more, they provide expert service, repairs, and emergency support for vessels of all sizes.

Their new Salmon Bay facility offers expanded dock space, shore power, and service capacity for yachts up to 150 feet. From private boats to Washington State Ferries, PPG keeps the region running strong.

Learn more at pacificpowergroup.com.

Offering two well-equipped marinas—Bremerton and Port Orchard—the Port of Bremerton is a perfect stop or homeport for recreational boaters exploring Puget Sound. They have it all - secure moorage, free Wi-Fi, clean showers, laundry, dockside pumpout, and nearby fuel.

Bremerton Marina puts you steps from downtown events and attractions, while Port Orchard offers small-town charm with BBQ floats and scenic shoreline. Whether for a night or the season, the Port of Bremerton makes it easy to tie up and enjoy.

Learn more or request moorage availability HERE.

The Port of Edmonds is a top choice for recreational boaters, offering protected moorage, 24-hour fuel, a full-service boatyard, and a clean, secure marina with showers, Wi-Fi, laundry, and more!

Guest moorage is easy to access—reserve ahead or use designated first-come slips. Once docked, you're steps from Edmonds' vibrant waterfront, restaurants, shops, parks, and beach. Whether you’re cruising through or staying for a season, Edmonds is a scenic, boater-friendly stop in the heart of Puget Sound.

Learn more or request moorage availability HERE.


The Port of Kingston is a favorite Puget Sound stop for recreational boaters! With 49 guest slips, 24-hour fuel (gas & diesel), pumpout, Wi-Fi, showers, laundry, and friendly staff, it’s a convenient and comfortable moorage option.

Downtown Kingston’s restaurants, shops, and parks are just steps away, and the Edmonds ferry terminal is nearby for easy connections. Whether you’re cruising north or just out for the weekend, Kingston makes for a scenic, walkable, and well-equipped stopover.


Learn more or request moorage availability HERE.

Located on San Juan Island, Roche Harbor Marina is the quintessential PNW experience!  Offering full-service moorage with stunning views, top-tier amenities, and resort-style comforts – plus a fuel dock, they are a favorite stop when cruising the San Juans.

Guests enjoy waterfront dining, a grocery market, pool, trails, and a charming historic village—all steps from the dock. Dock, dine, and unwind—Roche Harbor is a destination in itself.

Learn more or request moorage availability HERE.


Based in Seattle and Anacortes, S3 Maritime is a trusted source specializing in marine systems, repairs, and upgrades for recreational boaters. From electronics and engines to plumbing, paint, and HVAC—they do it all, with certified techs and mobile service available.


Whether you need a quick fix or a full systems refit – they can service any product, anytime, anywhere. S3 keeps your boat cruising safely and smoothly.

Learn more at s3maritime.com.


SeaSport Boats, handcrafted in Bellingham, WA and part of Northwest Marine Industries (NMI), offer rugged yet refined vessels ideal for both fishing and family outings on Puget Sound. These boats combine seaworthy performance, durable construction, and cozy accommodations—offering a reliable escape vessel for exploring the Islands, trolling the Sound, or enjoying family time afloat – rain or shine. NMI also builds C‑Dory, Osprey, and Skagit Orca.

Comfort, performance, and customization to match your boating lifestyle. Ready for your next adventure? Learn more at seasportboats.com.

Known by many as the “boating bible” - covering south Puget Sound to Glacier Bay and Skagway, Alaska including the marine waters of British Columbia - the Waggoner Cruising Guide is considered a must-have for Northwest boaters. It includes marina details, anchorage info, maps, local tips, and updates on regulations—all in one easy-to-use book. Planning a weekend trip or a full summer cruise? Waggoner helps you boat smarter.

You can purchase on their website, local marine retailers or online marketplaces. Learn more at waggonerguide.com

And sign up for their free newsletter HERE.

RBAW Affiliated Yacht Clubs

RBAW was founded by a coalition of pioneering Yacht Clubs that purchased Sucia Island in the 1950's, donated it to boaters, and recognized the need for a unified voice to protect boating interests in Olympia. RBAW has grown to a statewide organization representing thousands of boaters.

Yacht clubs are a gateway to community, cruising, and a shared love of life on the water. Whether you're a seasoned boater or just getting started, joining means connection, camaraderie, and adventure.

If you’re considering joining a club – why not choose ones that have invested in you, the recreational boater, with their RBAW Membership. 

See below for RBAW Yacht Clubs, and a link to their websites to learn more!

Click HERE to learn more about RBAW Affiliated Yacht Club Memberships.

Safe and fun cruising to all!

#MindTheZone on Lake Union this Summer

Hanging out on Lake Union is what summer is all about in Seattle! If you're on Lake Union this summer, please be aware of the seaplane advisory buoys and move 200ft east or west if they’re flashing yellow. For more information, please check out rbaw.org/mindthezone or reach out to us at mindthezone@rbaw.org and have a safe and fun summer!!

Link to #MindTheZone
PDF of Lake Union Map

Be Whale Wise

Stay a Safe Distance from Whales

Know the new 2025 rules and guidelines to follow in regards to your proximity to the whales while you are cruising. Educate yourself with the links below.

Anchor Out of Eelgrass

What is eelgrass?

Eelgrass is a type of seagrass that forms dense underwater meadows, providing habitat for a variety of marine life like Dungeness crabs, salmon, and herring.

RBAW's Gold Contributing Business Members

RBAW's Silver Members

RBAW's Bronze Members

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