BOATING ON VANCOUVER ISLAND
On Vancouver Island, exceptional boating is rarely more than a few minutes away. Take a pleasure craft or sailboat to explore the hidden harbours of Port Hardy in the north, the quiet coves of Victoria in the south, the Broken Group Islands near Bamfield on the west, or the Salish Sea on the east. With 3,340 km (2,137 miles) of coastline, there’s a nautical experience for everyone.
Freshwater and saltwater options are everywhere: explore the inner harbour of Victoria in a water taxi, pilot a cabin cruiser through the Salish Sea, white water raft down the Nimpkish River, or choose your own adventure with convenient spaces to launch or moor wherever works best for you. With over 9,000 lakes and 3,340 km of coastline, finding a space to spend an afternoon canoeing, kayaking, boating, or sailing is much easier than choosing one. No matter what draws you to the water, you’ll find it here.
The mineral springs of Hot Springs Cove in Maquinna Provincial Park are accessible by water taxi, helicopter, or floatplane, but boating is arguably the most memorable. Launch from Tofino or Ucluelet and enjoy the 90-minute cruise, watching for whales, seals, otters, eagles, or bears before soaking in the geothermally heated waters hidden in this island oasis.
FRESHWATER BOATING
Explore the freshwater playgrounds of Sprout Lake or Lake Cowichan. Rent a lakefront property and take advantage of private multi-mooring found along many of the Island’s most popular lakes, including the ones just listed above.
EXPLORE THE SHORELINE
Charter a cruise or set sail in your own boat from Comox, Buckley Bay, or Campbell River to explore the fjords, vistas, and wildlife of Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park. On a summer Saturday night, launch from Brentwood Bay for Tod Inlet. Drop anchor, get comfortable and watch the spectacular fireworks at Butchart Gardens. Moorage is available on Salt Spring Island, Pender Island, and Galiano Island, as well as in private marinas in the Cowichan region, providing easy access to services, dining, shopping, and nightlife in these welcoming communities.