Surprised (the Good Way) by Port of Kingston

While we have always considered Kingston a way-point in transit to the San Juans, our stay this time has changed our impression. After our water pump sprung a leak we found ourselves stranded in Kingston until we could get help. We ended up spending an extra night. Meanwhile, much to our pleasure and surprise we discovered great advantages to the Port of Kingston.

First, we were delighted to find that the POK offers an electric car (a golf cart with a modest body) to guests. We were able to use it to run around and find parts and a mechanic. Second, we discovered Henry’s—it has to be one of the last remaining small town hardware stores in Washington state. We found everything we needed, including metric sized screws that even the big name stores don’t carry. Even better, one of the hands at the store (Scott) is a diesel mechanic and he offered to come to our boat after work to help us fix our problem. Finally, while waiting, we had the opportunity to taste some of the local fare and found it great, especially Luna Bella Ristorante. Hearty recommendations to Kingston.

—Jon M. Duncan, University Place, WA