The FHL docks are home to the 42′ research vessel, “Kittiwake,” available for hire with captain. Four smaller motorboats, commonly used for SCUBA diving, are also available (at an hourly rate) as are several rowboats (free of charge). For AAUS divers, FHL offers SCUBA diving facilities that include a compressor (air & nitrox), dive cylinders, and dive storage lockers. See menu items on the right for specifics.
On the Dock
Washington State Department of Labor & Industries requires that all employees be protected from drowning. In work areas where the danger of drowning cannot be mitigated by engineering or other workplace safety measures (e.g., guardrails), the University of Washington is required to provide and ensure personnel wear Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs). The requirements apply to all University personnel, students and volunteers engaged in University research, teaching, or operational activities.
On our docks all University personnel, students and volunteers engaged in University research, teaching, or operational activities must wear PFDs on the floating docks. Please refer to the UW EH&S Boating Safety Page, particularly the Personal Flotation Device Flowchart and Focus Sheet (linked on the left side of that page), for more details and to decide when PFDs are required.
Additionally, Children 12 & under must wear lifejackets and be accompanied by a parent/guardian on the pier, floating docks, and boats at all times.
Nightlights for attracting critters underwater are no longer stored in the Children’s lifejacket shed; they’re in the stockroom, and must either be checked out during business hours.
In The Boats
Adults must wear lifejackets on the boats (both row and motor) at all times, including R/V Kittiwake.
Students, Researchers, and Visitors must contact the Boat Safety Officer (BSO) before using FHL rowboats or powerboats.
All visitors, including those on field trips, must receive an in-person orientation before using the rowboats. If you’re wondering whether this applies to you, the answer is YES! Feel free to contact the BSO prior to your arrival to set up a short orientation on the dock.
All usage of boats at FHL is subject to the UW Boating Safety Manual and the FHL Boating Manual. Please contact the BSO prior to your arrival to learn more.
In The Water
Persons needing to SCUBA dive must contact the Dive Safety Officer (DSO) and are advised to do so well in advance of their arrival at FHL. All diving at UW and FHL is for scientific purposes and conducted according to AAUS standards. SCUBA medical clearance will be required. FHL does not oversee snorkel safety.
TIDES & WEATHER:
SAN JUAN ISLANDS MARINE FORECAST
FRIDAY HARBOR LAND WEATHER REPORT
FHL WEATHER STATION
FRIDAY HARBOR TIDE PREDICTIONS
CURRENT PREDICTIONS
CONTACT:
Marine Operations Supervisor: Eric Loss eloss@uw.edu
Dive Safety Officer: Pema Kitaeff pema@uw.edu
Boat Safety Officer: Kristy Kull kjkull@uw.edu
The DSO/BSO office is in the dive house at the end of the dock
DSO/BSO Office Phone: 206-543-0876 or 360-378-2165 x18