Cowichan Bay Fishermen's Wharf Association
Fisherman’s Wharf offers moorage and anchoring just off its shore is another option.
Words by Steve Fennell
We like to emphasize how easy it is to access the many scenic areas of Canada’s BC Coast, providing opportunities to enjoy new experiences every season. While you can plan to navigate a multi-week trip, which is strongly encouraged, it’s not entirely necessary. You can be amidst some of the most beautiful scenery in the country after a quick shot on the throttle or an easy drive with your boat in tow.
Perhaps that’s one of the reasons why Cowichan Bay and the Town of Lake Cowichan draw so many boaters every year. On Vancouver Island, along the shores between Victoria and Nanaimo, this area is easy to access under power or if you prefer to load up your truck and tow your boat here. Marinas, anchorages, great cruising, fishing and watersports are available to enjoy, pretty much anytime, all season.
The Town of Cowichan Lake
There’s something special about inland lakes on Vancouver Island. It could be the crystal clear water that blends harmoniously with the forested landscape, the backdrop of rolling mountains or just the peaceful sound of the water lapping against your hull. Its tranquillity is second-to-none and is the perfect setting to enjoy a summer getaway.
Cowichan Bay Fishermen's Wharf Association
Marine wildlife is commonly seen - always be sure to keep your distance.
At 30 km (19 mi) in length, Lake Cowichan is one of the largest freshwater lakes on the island. This makes it perfect for anglers as the lake has a strong fishery that supports cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout. While local anglers claim spring and winter are the best times to hit underwater structures, it can be exciting all year with the right presentations and by learning all about the habits of the species.
Getting on the water is convenient thanks to the number of boat launches. A good option - and one the whole family will like - is Gordon Bay Provincial Park that’s close to Honeymoon Bay. There’s a boat ramp to plan a day on the water and for those who want to stay on the shore, the day-use area has a beach with excellent swimming, a picnic area, flush toilets, and a playground. The lake is also ideal for paddle boarding, canoeing and kayaking.
If you plan to stay for a few days, camping is available at the park (reservations are accepted and are recommended) as well as at other locations around the lake.
Added convenience in the area is provided by Cowichan Lake Marina, which has a fuel station, ski and board shop, and a Grab-and-Go food store. If you prefer to fuel up on your way to the lake (depending on the type of fuel your boat engine requires) gas/diesel is available in the Town of Lake Cowichan. Other essential services in Lake Cowichan include dining options, accommodations, and grocery stores.
Tourism Cowichan Jordan Dyck
Some of the shopping opportunities in nearby Duncan.
Cowichan Bay
What’s unique about this region of the island is its located in one of the few maritime Mediterranean climatic zones, which means you’ll experience some of the warmest weather in Canada. With its fertile land, the area is rich in agriculture, which quickly becomes evident with the number of local farms and wineries. Distilleries and craft brewers are also popular here.
A perfect place to take a break after an extended cruise, Cowichan Bay is home to Fisherman’s Wharf, a federal dock that provides excellent shelter. It has a floating breakwater and the two separate float systems offer 243 m (800 ft) of transient moorage space. Once you’re tied up, you can connect with the WiFi, utilize the shower and laundry facilities, or even plan your dinner at the available picnic/grill areas. Pumpouts are also available.
Being in such a prime location, the wharf gets busy during peak season. An alternate marina is Maple Bay Marina, approximately 20 minutes by car or a scenic run on the water northbound from Fisherman’s Wharf through Sansum Narrows. The full-service marina is nestled in Bird’s Eye Cove and where you can fuel up and pump out waste tanks.
Cowichan Bay Fishermen's Wharf Association
Transient boater-friendly, it’s common to see boats come and go throughout the season.
Keep in mind, the fuel dock gets busy during peak season and it’s recommended to contact the marina on VHF channel 66A after arriving in the bay to request fuel service, just to ensure organized queuing. As a special incentive, you’ll receive a $0.2/litre discount when staying overnight.
For 2022, expect to see a new E Dock, which offers long-term, open moorage, 15 m (50 ft) finger slips on the marina’s south side and linear ties on the north side. Although they are for monthly and annual moorage, there are designated transient slips to accommodate vessels up to 34 m (110 ft) with 30- and 50-amp power. The end tie of G dock was also recently extended to accommodate vessels up to 34 m (110 ft) with one 30-amp power service.
If you’re staying for a few days in the area and require ground transportation, Budget Rent a Car in Duncan offers a free shuttle service to and from the marina (and elsewhere in Cowichan Bay). You can also enjoy the immediate by visiting the onsite Shipyard Restaurant & Pub or taking a hike on the trails at nearby Mt. Tzouhalem. Fisherman’s Wharf, too, is close to restaurants as well as local shops, pubs and accommodations in the community’s waterfront village on Cowichan Bay Rd.
We also suggest visiting www.tourismcowichan.com for all the details to ensure a great visit and take advantage of everything the Cowichan Bay area has to offer.