In a bid to encourage superyachts to its shores, Washington State has introduced new "tourism-oriented" legislation that now permits foreign-flagged yachts and non-resident owned American-flagged vessels to undertake yacht charters around the Pacific Northwest, including the breathtaking destinations of the San Juan Islands and Desolation Sound.
Previously, superyachts of any size were prohibited to offer charters around these waters, so the new permit system that allows yachts of up to 200ft (61m) to charter heralds a welcome step-change for the superyacht industry.
This news has also been welcomed by the industry professionals who say the legislation will boost the region's economy by facilitating superyacht charters who wish to visit its shores this summer.
This new law will make it even easier for yachts to visit
The bill, which was signed into law last week, applies to both US and foreign-flagged yachts that hold a valid cruising licence, and will take effect from July 25 2021.
The Pacific Northwest offers some of the finest cruising grounds around, where tranquility abounds around its beautiful verdurous islands, secluded coves and serene fjords, rich with an abundance of wildlife, both above and below the water.
Guests can marvel at huge shoals of salmon as they make their journey towards their breeding grounds, or delight in the spectacle of orca whales breaching across the bow, whilst the nation's emblematic bald-headed eagles soar overhead.
From majestic snow-capped mountains to spectacular cascading waterfalls, the Pacific Northwest is arguably one of the most beautiful yacht charter destinations on the planet.
To find out more about yacht charters in the US Pacific Northwest, please take a look at our comprehensive guide.
If you’d like to learn more about chartering in the US, or making a booking, please contact your yacht charter broker.
Featured yachts available for charter in Northwest America
72m
Damen Yachting
2017 / 2020
50m
Westport Yachts
2008 / 2020
44m
Freeport Shipbuilding
1981 / 2008
43m
Royal Denship
2009 / 2019
41m
Horizon
2010 / 2023
40m
Westport Yachts
2002 / 2014
39m
Northcoast Yachts
2002
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