For those who love being on the water and exploring local history, there’s an opportunity this summer to combine both in a captivating and educational evening aboard the History Sunset Cruises, hosted by the Whatcom Museum in partnership with San Juan Cruises.
These unique cruises provide guests with more than just scenic views of Bellingham Bay. They offer an immersive journey through time, featuring stories of the people, industries, and cultures that shaped the city and the surrounding region.
A Unique Historical Cruise on Bellingham Bay
While other bay cruises operate in the area, this one stands out for its historical focus. According to Bridget Girnus, the Whatcom Museum’s manager of public programs, it’s the only cruise of its kind in the region that is dedicated entirely to local history and storytelling.
“Our cruise is unique because it combines local history narration with a scenic ride around the bay,” said Girnus. “This year, new presenters will share history through narration, trivia, and storytelling. This fulfills our mission of fostering curiosity and joy about our region and beyond, while offering folks the ability to tailor their experience to their interests.”
Community Partnership Brings Stories to the Sea
The cruise program is the result of a growing partnership between the Whatcom Museum and San Juan Cruises. The collaboration allows the museum to share its extensive historical knowledge and cultural resources while benefiting from the comfort, safety, and hospitality that San Juan Cruises is known for.
Guests can expect a smooth, relaxing cruise enhanced by professional narration, quality amenities, and a spectacular setting as the sun sets over Bellingham Bay.
Meet the New Voice: Kolby LaBree of Bellinghistory Tours
One of the fresh voices joining the tour series this season is Kolby LaBree, co-owner and operator of Bellinghistory Tours with the Good Time Girls. LaBree is widely known in Bellingham for leading engaging walking tours that dive into lesser-known aspects of the city’s past, blending humor, historical accuracy, and a bit of theatrical flair.
“The museum reached out to me, and I was immediately worried something had happened to Brian Griffin, who has been doing the cruises for a while now and is amazing,” LaBree said. “He’s in his 90s and going strong! I was assured Brian is A-OK, but wanted a break this summer, and he certainly deserves one. Big shoes to fill.”
Viewing Bellingham’s History From the Water
LaBree is excited to offer guests a new lens through which to view the city, quite literally from the water.
“It gives a whole other perspective on the town when viewed from the bay,” LaBree said. “Since that’s how people were primarily arriving and traveling in this area historically, I love getting to see that viewpoint. I don’t get many chances to go out on the water, so I’m really looking forward to this.”
While much of the cruise content will align with the museum’s core historical themes, LaBree also plans to incorporate rare and quirky tales from their own collection to keep things engaging for returning visitors.
Cruise Amenities: Food, Drinks, and Archival Photography
The cruises include light refreshments, a selection of beverages for purchase, and comfortable indoor and outdoor seating. In addition to live narration, guests can view a curated video presentation featuring historical photographs from the Whatcom Museum archives, providing visual context to the stories being told.
Cruise Dates and Themes for Summer 2025
LaBree will narrate five tours this summer: July 8, July 29, August 5, August 19, and August 26. Each evening promises a mix of narrative history, maritime ambiance, and community connection.
Other themed cruises will round out the series. On July 15, guests can take part in the History Sunset Trivia Cruise, hosted by Randall Ragsdale of World’s Best Trivia. This lighthearted event invites passengers to test their knowledge of local lore while enjoying drinks and breathtaking views.
For families, the History Sunset Family Cruise on July 22 offers a more interactive storytelling format. Storytellers Julie Trimingham, Tammy Cooper-Woodrich, and Angela Letoi will share tales rooted in Coast Salish tradition and place, stories that speak to all generations and center Indigenous voices and connections to the land and sea.
Season Runs Through August 26
The whole season of History Sunset Cruises runs from July 8 through August 26, giving both locals and visitors ample opportunities to board a boat, explore the bay, and learn more about Bellingham’s evolving past.
Each cruise lasts approximately two hours, offering a rich mix of history, nature, and community reflection.
A Chance to Connect Past and Present
“These cruises offer so many fun and engaging ways to learn about history,” Girnus said. “Our region’s past directly affects our present and future. I hope folks walk away with new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the rich history, culture, and nature of Bellingham that continues to shape us.”
Learn More or Reserve Your Spot
Tickets for the History Sunset Cruises can be reserved online. For full details, including pricing and boarding information, visit here.
