Today I am taking the dinghy to one of the Gulf Islands’ hidden gems, Saturnina Island, a small, protected island just off the east coast of Gabriola Island in British Columbia.
Although it looks like a quiet, untouched island today, Saturnina has a fascinating history. It is one of the Flat-Top Islands and was named after the Spanish naval vessel Saturnina, commanded by José María Narváez. In the spring of 1791, the Saturnina, travelling alongside the San Carlos, departed Nootka Sound to explore the waterways northeast of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. That expedition helped chart the body of water we now know as the Strait of Georgia, forever changing our understanding of the Pacific Northwest coast.
Saturnina Island is also an inspiring conservation success story. In 2022, the Wilson 5 Foundation, established by Lululemon founder Chip Wilson and his family, donated $4 million to the BC Parks Foundation to help purchase and permanently protect Saturnina Island, along with West Ballenas Island and a 265-acre waterfront property on Lasqueti Island.
These remarkable islands protect fragile Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystems, old-growth forests, rare native plants, and important wildlife habitat. Thanks to this extraordinary gift, these landscapes will remain protected for future generations of boaters, hikers, paddlers, and nature lovers.
Are you interested in donating? And what is the difference between the Marine Parks Forever Society and BC Parks Foundation?
The BC Parks Foundation is the official charitable partner of BC Parks and helps protect parks and natural areas throughout British Columbia, while the Marine Parks Forever Society focuses specifically on preserving and enhancing marine parks and anchorages for recreational boaters. Both organizations rely on public support and make it easy to donate through their websites. If you love exploring BC’s coast, consider supporting one or both to help protect these remarkable places for future generations.
I hope you enjoy coming along as I explore another beautiful corner of the Pacific Northwest by boat.
Article by Melissa Gervais
Photo Credit: Melissa Gervais
Map Credit: Google Maps
Note: You cannot hike on Saturnina Island since it is a protected nature reserve and is closed to public foot traffic to protect its fragile ecosystem. While you cannot set foot on the island, the tombolo (a strip of sand connecting Saturnina to an adjoining islet) is a popular stopping spot for kayakers.
