Frequently Asked Questions

  • We explore the heart of the Salish Sea, operating throughout the surrounding Pacific Northwest waterways and coastal landscapes. Locations are confirmed individually for each experience—whether land-based or water-based—to best fit your vision. For water-based sessions and trips, we most likely will dock to and from at the Cornet Bay Boat Launch on Whidbey Island, Washington.

  • The moody, fragmented marine layer light is part of what makes the Salish Sea so uniquely beautiful, and we can shoot in most gentle weather conditions. However, your safety is always the top priority. If severe weather or unsafe sea conditions arise, we will work together to reschedule or adjust your session. We have a handful of land-based locations that offer a safer, weather-sheltered experience if needed!

  • We strive to include at least one wildlife viewing with each tour—whether that is spotting local sea birds, sea lions, whales, or land animals along the shoreline. While nature is wild and we can never guarantee specific sightings, our deepest desire is to connect you directly to the rich flora and fauna of the Salish Sea.

  • Your safety is our absolute top priority. Our vessel is fully equipped with all required safety equipment, including Coast Guard-approved life jackets (PFDs) for all passengers, a marine radio, first-aid supplies, and emergency signaling gear, strictly meeting all United States Coast Guard (USCG) regulations. While we do not require adult passengers (ages 18 and older) to wear their life jackets at all times, we do strictly require anyone under 18 to wear a life jacket whenever the vessel is running on the water. We will also go over a thorough safety briefing together before our departure so everyone feels comfortable and prepared.

  • Our family vessel, Hewes Your Daddy, is a 21-foot hardtop Hewescraft designed for intimate, personalized experiences. Sessions are best suited for individuals, couples, or small groups of 4 to 5 people or less.

    Specifically, our elopement packages include spots for 4 people total—the bride, groom, and 2 witnesses. If you are planning a gathering with a larger guest count, we have trusted fellow boaters in our local community with other vessels who are willing to take out additional members at an additional cost.

    Please note that our vessel's total capacity is 9 people, and that maximum includes the captain and deckhand.

  • Not at all! As a licensed USCG Captain, I handle all the navigation, boat handling, and safety protocols. All you need to do is step aboard, relax, and enjoy the experience.

  • Our vessel does not have a toilet on board, but we make sure you have convenient options! There is a clean, well-maintained bathroom right at the dock that we encourage everyone to use before we depart. Additionally, we have designated bathroom locations mapped out on various islands along our routes should we need to make a shore stop—and there's always a bucket on board just in case!

  • Layering is key in the Pacific Northwest, as marine weather can shift quickly. I recommend bringing warm, windproof layers, and comfortable flat shoes. If you are planning an elopement, feel free to wear or bring along your special elopement attire—whether it's a gown, suit, or adventure wear. Our boat, Hewes Your Daddy, features a hard top that protects us from wind and rain, so you can easily stay comfortable while traveling to your destination and touch up or change your layers as needed!