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First Time Itinerary out of Nanaimo?
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May 29, 2007
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Hi Bob/ Waggoner People,
Using the W Guide I am planning our first cruise in Canada, bareboat chartering a 40-foot sailboat out of Nanaimo.
Question: where do we go for a 7 day cruise?
It’s a family cruise but the kids are 18 and 21 so we can do some longer passages if required. From reading around I am inclined to head north for the more dramatic (and less European) scenery. We're also pretty keen on marine life spotting along the way. We don’t mind a full day's sailing if needed but also would like time to explore ashore from time to time and some short sail days to make it relaxing rather than full on. Any suggested itineraries or 'don't miss' stopovers?
Thanks for your help.
Keith Greenfield
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Response
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Hi, Keith,
It would be hard for you to make a bad decision for your cruise. You could go south into the Gulf Islands, or across the strait and up Jervis Inlet to Princess Louisa Inlet, or across the Strait of Georgia and north to Desolation Sound. Princess Louisa Inlet and Desolation Sound would require a couple days of travel time in each direction, so perhaps your best choice would be the Gulf Islands.
The Gulf Islands have more boat traffic and don’t have the feeling of being in the wilderness, but every day would count. If the wind is satisfactory, you could sail around the top of Gabriola Island and down into the Flattop Islands, and have your first night in Silva Bay, either swinging on the hook are tied at a marina. Next morning you could catch Gabriola Pass at slack and have your pick of interesting anchorages or marinas in the Gulf Islands. The islands are beautiful and the waterways have enough rocks, reefs and current to let you know they aren’t to be treated lightly. Wallace Island is neat, the town of Ladysmith is fun, Cabbage Island is “out there,” and Butchart Gardens is something you won’t forget. If you haven’t seen the Gulf Islands yet, you should.
However, if it’s bragging rights you want, then you have to trek across the Strait of Georgia to Jervis Inlet and Princess Louisa Inlet, or across the strait and up to Desolation Sound. The scenery at both destinations is stunning, and you’ll know you’re in the wilderness. Just be ready to spend four or five days of your charter in transit.
Bob Hale
Editor/Publisher
Waggoner Cruising Guide
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