Sunshine Coast

Along the Sunshine Coast lies a virtually unlimited cruising area and a multitude of fascinating destinations. Distances are longer and sailing is more dependent on weather variations. Also there are fewer marina amenities and more wilderness anchorages.

Day 1
Sidney to Silva Bay
You will depart from Sidney and enjoy an approximate 6 hour cruise to Gabriola Island where you can anchorage at the very popular Silva Bay. Just north of the island you'll find anchorages at Newcastle Island and everything you might need in the nearby City of Nanaimo.

Day 2
Silva Bay to Granville Island
Head across the Georgia Strait to Granville Island. Thought of as Vancouver's "Town Square, you will be inspired and enjoy this unique atmosphere in an exciting cultural experience of fine resturants, festivals, galleries and unique shops.

Day 3
Granville Island to Secret Cove
A tiny entrance to the area disguises a series of small bays and coves offering perfectly protected anchorage in a number of inlets; however, most boaters prefer the inside of Turnagain Island. Secret Cove is a popular summer resort retreat, with the remote feeling of an island and all the convenience of a mainland coastal community.

Day 4
Secret Cove to Lund
Prepare for a great adventure through Desolation sound by heading over to Lund and exploring what this enterprising community has to offer. Stay for dinner in the historic Lund Hotel or just sample one of the many pastries offered at Nancy’s Bakery. For more information visit Lund Harbour Authority Wharf: (604) 483-4711 VHF Channel 66A

Day 5
Lund to Prideaux Haven
Hoist anchor and set sail to the pride of Desolation Sound, Prideaux Haven. This area is known as one of the most scenically outstanding anchorages anywhere. This well protected Harbour has enough arms and interconnecting coves and passageways to safely accommodate hundreds of boats. Entrance to Prideaux Haven is from Homfray Channel to the east of Eveleigh Island. Caution should be exercised when entering the area and the reef in the center of the channel should be kept to the port. From July to August, Prideaux Haven has the reputation of being one for the most crowded anchorages on the BC coast. The warm waters of this area make it a perfect spot for swimming and water skiing.

Day 6
Prideaux Haven to Oyster Cove 
Enjoy a leisurely cruise to Pendrell Sound where you can experience some of the warmest waters north of Panama. Scenic anchorages await at Oyster Cove and the head of the inlet. Pendrell Sound is renowned for its Oysters and Hieroglyphics.

Day 7
Oyster Cove to Refuge Cove
A reprovisioning opportunity awaits you at Refuge Cove, a unique coastal co-op with a small store, liquor outlet and some mouth-watering homemade cinnamon buns. Stay here for the night or carry on to the anchorage in Roscoe Bay (check the tides as it shallows out in the entrance). The warm waters of Black Lake await you only a 5 minute walk from the anchorage.

Day 8
Rest Day or Bad Weather Day
Sailing is dependent upon the elements, particularly the wind, and, while being essential, the wind can often bring challenges. It is a good idea to allocate a day during your cruise for bad weather or just to stay moored at a favourite spot.

Day 9
Refuge Cove to Teakerne Arm
Teakerne Arm is a beautiful 128-hectare area off Lewis Channel on the west side of West Redonda Island in Desolation Sound, BC.  The park features forested uplands and the amazing 30-metre high Cassel Falls.  Follow the hiking trails to Cassel Lake, perfect for a picnic and a swim in one of the best swimming spots in Desolation Sound, BC.  Most charter boats anchor in the bay immediately to the west of the falls, with plenty of anchor rode out in the deep bay and a stern line fastened ashore. Teakerne Arm Provincial Marine Park has a dinghy landing dock and is a perfect area to include in your sailboat charter vacation.

Day 10
Teakerne Arm to Von Dunop Inlet
Enjoy an easy day en-route to Von Dunop Inlet Marine Park. n the Discovery Islands, with its long, narrow sheltered inlet, is a popular anchorage for charter yachts.  Located on the northwestern tip of Cortes Island, the inlet can be entered from northern Sutil Channel. Once secured you can explore the lagoon with your dinghy or follow the trail to Squirrel Cove.

Day 11
Von Dunop Inlet to Lasqueti Island
Head through the "Bull Passage" to the largely undeveloped, Lasqueti Island which lies southwest of Texada Island, a short distance across the Strait. Aboriginal artifacts have been found on the island, and middens (ancient mounds of discarded shellfish shells) can still be found near many of the island's beaches.

Day 12
Lasqueti Island to Poets Cove
Easing back into civilization to Poets Cove in Bedwell Harbour on South Pender Island where you will enjoy unparalleled peace, tranquillity and elegance in the midst of incredible natural beauty.

Day 13
Poets Cove to Sidney
Sail through Saanich Inlet past some of the most beautiful homes on the West Coast. Skirt around Coals Island and back into our base where you can explore Sidney and spend your final night aboard your yacht in preparation for departure the next morning.