Nick Harris
Explore the BC Coast and Beyond
Words by Steve Fennell
Cruising the BC Coast and Pacific Northwest is a feeling that can be matched. Hearing the water splashing from an active family of seals, observing a bald eagle gliding just above the water’s surface, and watching wildlife meander along the shore is just one of Mother Nature’s true gifts to recreational boaters. There’s really nothing else quite like it.
This is our 23rd year of publishing SunCruiser West Coast, bringing you some the greatest boating destinations the Canadian BC Coast and Pacific Northwest have to offer. Even though many fabulous boating destinations have changed all for the better in the last two-plus decades, it’s amazing how many areas also remain timeless with all its natural beauty. One aspect that is very certain, however, is each destination always offers a new level of excitement with every visit.
A Davey
Quiet anchorages can be found all throughout the region.
There are many boating hubs along the BC Coast, throughout the inlets and bays, and even down into the U.S. waters of Washington State. In between, however, are wide open spaces with meandering routes where you can leisurely idle at your own pace or enjoy the exhilarating rush of pure power at full throttle. It doesn’t matter how far and how long you travel, either. The fact that you’re at the helm to a new adventure is what counts. The hardest part, actually, is deciding where to go, and the choices are diverse.
If you’re cruising from the mainland of BC, the islands of Galiano, Salt Spring and Pender are all wise choices. Take an adventure to one of the six Provincial Parks on Galiano, then set up camp overlooking the vast seascape; enjoy the accommodations for a weekend getaway in Ganges Harbour on Salt Spring Island; or discover the diversity of Pender. Better yet, make the time to enjoy some classic “island hopping” to get a sense of what these Gulf Islands – and others – are all about. You’ll be glad you did.
Reuben Krabbe
Don’t be surprised to orcas rise from the surface at a moment’s notice.
While it’s always exciting to discover a new destination, some of the true classics – such as the Sunshine Coast – is where time stands still. Just pull back the throttle(s) and just admire it all. Jervis Inlet, Copeland Island Marine Park, and Desolation Sound are a few of the hot spots that will keep you at bay (pun intended) as you relax in a quiet anchorage for a few days or longer.
Biding time at a destination is never hard. If your legs just aren’t up for another day of exploring and hiking, simply enjoy some rest and relaxation aboard your vessel. Or, maybe put your arms to work instead. Paddle boarding or kayaking are popular activities and there’s no doubt you’ll tone your biceps if you drop a line and land some of the monster salmon that lurk below the water’s surface.
Cruising south along the BC coast – or more specifically Hero Strait – leads south of the border into Washington State. Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, and the boating-friendly areas of Port Townsend, Bellingham, Anacortes, to name a few, are all great places to plot a course.
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Dale Simonson
The kayaking is excellent and the great fishing opportunities attract enthusiasts from across the globe.
SG̱ang Gwaay Llanagaay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on the south western edge of Gwaii Haanas, Haida Gwaii
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Dale Simonson
The kayaking is excellent and the great fishing opportunities attract enthusiasts from across the globe.
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Motoring through any area of this region takes some research. While we strongly advise to use current charts for proper navigation, SunCruiser West Coast provides quick reference to the many destinations with illustrated maps, detailed information on moorages, passageways, and the countless of services. Hazards, underwater obstructions even the location of select mooring balls are provided in full detail.
Boating the BC Coast and the Pacific Northwest is a unique, wonderful experience. Whether you regularly cruise the region every weekend or plan a multi-week trip every year, you can always count on two things – pure nature at its finest and never a dull moment.
Steven Fines