Vlad Vasnetsov from Pixabay
Cowichan Bay at low tide. No matter when you visit, it’s always an ideal place to stop.
Words by Steve Fennell
Unlike the popular destination islands of Salt Spring or Galiano on the BC Coast, Cowichan Bay is part of the mainland of Vancouver Island, located between Victoria and Nanaimo, which allows the chance to explore the area whether you visit by boat or if you have a boat in tow.
Geographically situated in one of the few maritime Mediterranean climatic zones, this coastal region has one of the warmest annual temperatures in Canada and when combined with its rich, fertile land, the area is an agricultural haven. From prosperous farms and wineries to even distilleries and craft brewers, you won’t be disappointed with its local flavours.
A Davey
Popular for a range boats, Genoa Bay is one of the other scenic spots in the area.
But the area’s warm climate also draws countless recreational boaters. A big draw on the water here is Fisherman’s Wharf, a federal dock that provides excellent shelter with its floating breakwater and there are two separate float systems with plenty of transient moorage – 243 m (800 ft) of it to be exact. Some of its amenities on-site include restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities, plus WiFi, gated security, as well as picnic and grill areas. Pumpouts are also available to empty waste tanks after those long journeys. In the event there’ no space to moor a boat during peak season, there are other options in the immediate area.
For instance, there’s Maple Bay Marina, which is about a 20-minute drive by car or a scenic cruise by boat, heading north from Fisherman’s Wharf through Sansum Narrows. Tucked away in Bird’s Eye Cove, this sheltered, full-service facility has a travel lift if you have a boat in tow and many amenities for transient boaters. A public boat launch is also located close to the Government Dock at the north end of the bay.
Judy Gallagher
Bight skies and sunshine – the area is known for its warm climate.
But if you arrive from the water, keep in mind that the marina’s shuttle service to the community of Duncan for essentials is temporarily unavailable due to COVID-19. According to Maple Bay, this may change as pandemic restrictions lift so it’s best call ahead for updates.
If you need some wheels to explore the area, there are car rentals agencies in Duncan. Budget Rent a Car commonly picks up transient boaters at the marina to get the vehicle. But be sure to reserve ahead of time and to determine if the service is available. However, some amenities and activities to in and around the marina include dining at The Shipyard Restaurant & Pub, visiting the Mariners Market & Espresso Bar, and going hiking or mountain biking on the trails of Mt. Tzouhalem.
If you have transportation to get around on land, a great destination to visit is Gordan Bay Provincial Park on Lake Cowichan. One of the highlights is its day-use area featuring a beach, excellent swimming, a picnic area, flush toilets, as well as a playground. There’s also a launch ramp. At 30 km long, Lake Cowichan is one of the largest lakes on Vancouver Island where you can go wakeboarding, paddle boarding, and take in some paddle-time with your kayak. Or, you can simply find an area to drop anchor, raise the Bimini top and relax the day away. Fishing is also popular for rainbow and Dolly Varden trout. To stay longer, camping is available and while it’s recommended to book a site in advance, sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Tim-Toomey unsplash
Considered “Canada’s Provence” you can dine to your heart’s content throughout the area.
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Hermes Rivera unsplash
Considered “Canada’s Provence” you can dine to your heart’s content throughout the area.
Back to Cowichan Bay
One of the great things about mooring at Fisherman’s Wharf (or one of the nearby marinas) is it’s close to the community’s waterfront village on Cowichan Bay Rd. It’s just a short walk from the slips to a variety of local shops, excellent dining opportunities, relaxing pubs, accommodations, and more, allowing the chance to experience the area’s relaxing atmosphere.
With many more attractions and destinations to discover, it’s best to visit www.cowichanbay.com before your departure to not only realize all of your options that are available but to ensure a perfect getaway in Cowichan Bay and throughout scenic Vancouver Island.