GUIDE 2016
MARINAS & DESTINATIONS IN ATLANTIC CANADA
4566 Prospect Road (Bayside) | Halifax, Nova Scotia B3Z 1L8 | 902-852-4199 www.ironwind.ca
N E W A D V EN T U R E S AWA I T.
Nova Scotia’s culture is shaped by our coastline. Over 7000 kilometres of harbours, coves, and inlets to explore, with breathtaking landscapes, spectacular golfing, rich culinary destinations, and world-renowned hospitality. Let our ports be your gateway to destinations across Nova Scotia, Atlantic Canada and to Northern expeditions. Free Daytime Berthing Program | my-waterfront.ca marina@wdcl.ca | 902-229-2628 | VHF 68 | novascotia.com/boating
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Call or visit our website for details and our service areas
GUIDE 2016 Publisher Patty Baxter
Published in partnership with
Senior Editor Trevor J. Adams Editor Suzanne Rent Design Production Manager Production Coordinator Research Assistant
Beth Muzzerall Jeffrey Webb Paula Bugden Crystal Slaunwhite
Printing Advocate Printing & Publishing
www.boatinginatlanticcanada.com No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without the prior written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur.
For advertising, contact: tel. (902) 420-9943 publishers@metroguide.ca Contributors Jocelyn Bethune Rob Dunbar Ted Laurentius Pat Nelder
6 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016
Gerry Peer Paul Spike Sara Spike
2882 Gottingen Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3K 3E2 Tel. (902) 420-9943 | Fax (902) 429-9058 Email: publishers@metroguide.ca www.metroguidepublishing.ca
INSIDE NAVIGATOR CONTENTS New Brunswick-St. John RiverBay of Fundy
Newfoundland and Labrador
Featured Marinas
12
Sail through history and scenery on the St. John River
16
24
Two hurricane holes on The Gentle Island
28
66
New Brunswick, St. John River, Bay of Fundy 34 Coastal Nova Scotia 34, 35 Northumberland Strait 34, 35 Cape Breton 35 36 Newfoundland and Labrador
Cape Breton Featured marinas
64
Maps
Northumberland Strait Featured marinas
Featured marinas Sailing for seasons in Newfoundland and Labrador
42
Adventures by sea: Seven spectacular boating trips along Cape Breton’s captivating coasts 44
Coastal Nova Scotia
50
Wild, seabound coast: Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore
54
Destination, Mahone Bay: Turn right out of Halifax Harbour for a cruise of Nova Scotia’s scenic South Shore
58
Cover: The Royal Kennebeccasis Yacht Club is just one of the many places to dock during a cruise on New Brunswick’s St. John River. Learn about the river and other highlights in the region starting on page 12. Cover inset photos: Saint John Marina/North Market Wharf Photos: Mike Gridley/Power Boat Television
life’s better with a boat!
Boating is about building relationships with family and friends, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
DiscoverBoating.ca offers free resources you can use to enjoy and share your boating life. DiscoverBoatingCanada
Find your favourite destinations at BoatingInAtlanticCanada.com
@DB_Canada
The-Great-Blue-North
Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 7
8 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016
WELCOME Welcome to our 2016 editon of the Atlantic Boating Guide, a comprehensive directory of marinas and yacht clubs in Atlantic Canada. This guide is jointly produced by the Atlantic Marine Trades Association (AMTA), Metro Guide Publishing and Advocate Printing. We hope it will be of use to you as you make your boating plans this season around New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador. Our region is a study in contrast, from the tranquil St. John River in New Brunswick to the incredible and rugged scenery and coastline of Newfoundland. Inside, you will find regional profiles written by sailors and boaters, the people
who know these areas best. In each profile, they share details of their own trips, favourite places to visit and what boaters should watch for when in these coastal regions. We have a bounty of sea life, great weather (sometimes) and a marine industry to look after boaters’ needs. Make sure to contact the marinas and yacht clubs of your choice to reserve a spot or to find out if they have the facilities you need. Welcome to our waters! Jason Craig President, AMTA info@boatinginatlanticcanada.com
IMPORTANT CRUISING INFORMATION AND LINKS Bringing your boat to cruise in Canada Recreational boaters must present themselves to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) each time they arrive in Canada. When entering Canada by water, you must contact the CBSA by calling the reporting centre at 1-888-226-7277 after arriving at a designated marine site. If towing your vessel into Canada by trailer, you will report to the CBSA at a land Port of Entry. CANPASS and NEXUS programs streamline the border clearance process for pre-approved, low-risk travellers into Canada and the United States. You are permitted to leave your vessel in Canada if you plan to make a series of visits to Canada throughout the boating season. You must advise the border services officer of your plans at the time of your initial arrival in Canada and provide the officer the anticipated date that the boat will leave Canada. Boats must be removed/leave Canada at the end of the originally declared date, or within 12 months from the date of importation, whichever is earlier. To find out more information, please visit The Canadian Border Services Website at www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca Charts and Publications All vessels in Canadian waters must carry and use nautical charts and related publications pursuant to the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, Charts and Nautical Publications Regulations, that are issued by, or on the authority of, the Canadian Hydrographic Service. The Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) has information about available charts, digital charts, sailing directions, tides and water levels with links to Chart Dealers at www.charts.gc.ca Notices to mariners provides you with the necessary information to update all of your charts and nautical
publications. It will advise you of our new initiatives, services and also of some important announcements concerning the maritime community and can be viewed at www.notmar.gc.ca Tides Information about Tides can be viewed at www.tides.gc.ca Boating Safety Transport Canada Marine Safety’s Office of Boating Safety encourages boaters to explore Canada’s waterways responsibly. All recreational boaters are expected to know the rules that govern their safe enjoyment of Canada’s waters, including mandatory safety equipment, the safe operation of vessels and the protection of the environment. To operate a motorized boat in Canada, you need proof of competency to show that you have basic boating safety knowledge. The most common form of proof of competency is a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. You can get one by taking a boating safety course and/or passing a boating safety test from a Transport Canada accredited course provider. In addition, all recreational boats with a motor of 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) or more must have a pleasure craft licence. Pleasure craft licences are free and are valid for 10 years. For more information on recreational boating regulations, visit www.tc.gc.ca/boatingsafety. A copy of the latest Canadian Safe Boating Guide is available for download at http://www.tc.gc.ca/media/documents/ marinesafety/TP-511e.pdf Weather Links www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca www.theweathernetwork.com
Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 9
Honda ATVs & Power Equipment
@HondaATVPECA
Models and colours may not be exactly as shown. Errors and omissions expected. See your Honda Power Equipment and Marine dealer or honda.ca for full details. Never operate your Honda outboard under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Always wear a personal floatation device while boating and read your owner’s manual before operating your Honda outboard.
Discover the Honda difference
Dreaming of longer days out cruising the waters? They’re closer than you think. As industry leaders in advanced 4-stroke technology since 1964, Honda outboard motors are engineered with the reliability and performance you can trust. Designed to be quiet, fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible, you’re left free to experience more time on the water with the confidence to realize the difference only Honda can deliver.
honda.ca
REGION NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER Map #
Dockage
Max Length
Draft
Power
Bathurst Marina Bathurst | www.bathurstmarina.com | 506-547-1166
18
Y
50'
7'
30 amp
Brundage Point River Centre Westfield www.town.grandbay-westfield.nb.ca | 506-738-6406
5
Y
35'
5'
N
Centennial Park Sailboat Marina Mactaquac mactaquacpark@gnb.ca | 506-363-4747
10
Y
64'
30'
at building, not on docks
Chipman Marine Wharf Chipman | www.chipmannb.org | 506-339-6601
14
Y
40'
10'
30 amp
Dalhousie Regional Marina Dalhousie | 506-684-5298
17
Y
40'
6'
20-30 amp
Evandale Resort Evandale | www.evandaleresort.com | 506-468-2222
6
Y
U
U
U
Fredericton Yacht Club Fredericton | www.fyc.ca | 506-472-2448
12
Y
40'
6'
15 amp
Fredricton Yacht Club (Douglas Harbour) Douglas Harbour | www.fyc.ca | 506-472-2448
13
Y
40’
6’
30 amp
Gagetown Marina Gagetown | www.gagetownmarina.ca | 877-488-1992
7
Y
75'
10'
30-50 amp
Mactaquac Marina Keswick Ridge mactaquacpark@gnb.ca | 506-461-2349
11
Y
48'
16'
30 amp
Oromocto Boat Club Oromocto | www.oromoctoboatclub.ca | 506-357-7374
8
Y
90'
12'
30 amp
Regent Street Wharf Fredericton www.capitalcityboatclub.com | 506-455-1445
9
Y
60'
16'
15, 30 amp
Rothesay Yacht Club Rothesay www.rothesayyachtclub.com | 506-847-7245
15
Y
36'
4'
30 amp
MARINA
Y
12 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER
Marina Listings
LEGEND: Y=Yes N=No W=Washrooms S=Showers L=Laundry U=Unknown
Launch Ramp
Fuel
Water & Ice
Pump Out
Facilities
Storage
Lat
Long
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S
Y
47.37'18"N
65.39'06"W
Y
Y
N
Water
N
W
N
45.21'39"N
66.14'18"W
Y
Y
available at Mactaquac Marina
Water
available at Mactaquac Marina
W
Y
45.56'57"N
66.52'54"W
N
Y
N
Water
Y
W
N
46.10'25"N
65.53'13"W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S
N
48.6'59"N
66.38'45"W
Y
U
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
N
U
U
Y
Y
N
Water
Y
W/S
N
45.91'N
66.09'W
Y
Y
N
Water
N
W
Y
54.57'N
66.36'W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
45.47'10"N
66.08'39"W
N
Y
Gas
Water/Ice
Y
W
Y
45.56'57"N
66.52'54"W
N
Y
Gas, high test only
Water/Ice
Y
W/L/S
N
45.51'2"N
66.28'9"W
Y
N
N
Water/Ice
Y
W/S
N
45.58'N
66.38'W
Y
Y
N
Water/Ice
Y
W
Y
45.23'37"N
65.59'56W
Moorings
N
N
NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 13
REGION NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER Map #
Dockage
Max Length
Draft
Power
Royal Kennebaccasis Yacht Club Saint John | www.rkyc.nb.ca | 506-632-0186
16
Y
150'
6'
15 amp
Saint John Marina Ltd Saint John | www.saintjohnmarina.ca | 506-738-8484
3
Y
80'
6'
30 amp
Saint John Power Boat Club Saint John | 506-642-5233
4
Y
60'
6'
15 amp
St. Andrew’s Market Wharf St Andrew’s | www.townofstandrews.ca 506-529-5170 | cel 506-467-6682
2
Y
180'
13'
Y
Valley Yacht Club at the Woodstock Marina Woodstock | 506-328-3402
1
Y
30’
14’
15-30 amp
MARINA
limited
14 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER
Marina Listings
LEGEND: Y=Yes N=No W=Washrooms S=Showers L=Laundry U=Unknown
Launch Ramp
Fuel
Water & Ice
Pump Out
Facilities
Storage
Lat
Long
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S
Y
45.18'21"N
66.22'17"W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
45.19'N
65.53'W
N
N
N
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
N
45.16'N
66.05'W
Y
Y
Y
Y
Moorings
N
Water
available locally
ice available locally
Y
W/S
N
45.04'11"N
67.03'W
Gas (Hi test)
Water/Ice
Y
W
N
U
U
NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 15
Sail through history and scenery on the St. John River BY GERRY PEER
The St. John River is one of the best freshwater cruising areas on the North American Eastern Seaboard. If one adds up all the lakes and tributaries to the main river itself, you will find more than 300 nautical miles of navigable water. Compared to the Bay of Fundy, into which the river empties, with its sevenmetre plus tides at Saint John Harbour and 14 C water temperature, the tide at Grand Bay at the river’s lower end is less than a metre, reducing to 15 centimetres up river at Gagetown. The water temperature in mid summer ranges from 22 C to 25 C. The difference in tide levels is caused by the Reversing Falls at Saint John Harbour. It acts as a floodgate allowing passage of vessels through the Falls’ gorge at slack tide. After passing through the narrow gorge area, the river opens up to Grand Bay and the junction of the Kennebecasis River, which is navigable to the town of Hampton. The lower sections of both rivers are wide with little obstructions. A beat to windward under sail in the prevailing southwest wind with ample room to tack can provide a glorious day’s sail. There are a number of premier yacht clubs in this area,
including the Royal Kennebecasis, Rothesay, Renforth, and Martinon plus the Saint John Marina. As you leave Grand Bay, at the foot of Long Reach as well as at the top of Kennebecasis Bay, are the first of the river cable ferries. As they are vessels with restricted movement, they have the right of way and should be contacted, if in doubt of their movement on VHF 16. At the head of Long Reach one can find Whelpley Cove, a favourite Friday night anchorage of the local boaters, out of the current, sheltered by the high hills and near by Caton’s Island. After leaving Welpley Cove one next comes to the entrance to Belleisle Bay. With its high hills on both sides, it has an allweather anchorage in Jenkins Cove. There is also an anchorage in Kingston Creek with a high rock face and a trail to the top for the adventurous types to look down at your boat from on high. The river at this point changes to a pastoral landscape with numerous channels through grassy interval islands that flood every spring and are populated with cows and horses. It’s not uncommon to come across an outboard-powered barge loaded with hay or livestock going to or
16 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER
PHOTO: POWERBOAT TV
from an island. A couple of miles up river there is another cable ferry, as well as and Evandale Resort and Marina, a refurbished riverboat inn used by many visiting cruising clubs for crew changes. When continuing on up river the next point of interest is Wickham Wharf, one of the many former riverboat wharfs maintained by the St. John River Society. To stop at this wharf and a walk up the wharf road to Ducey’s store is to go back in time. On a tree not far from the wharf, an enterprising soul placed markers indicating the height of the river with dates of various spring floods. Not far up river from Wickham are the two entrances to Washademoak Lake Colwell’s and Washademoak Creeks forming Musquash Island. This area has many excellent anchorages in the surrounding creeks, all with good depths. Foshay Creek, Killaboy, (supposedly named after a young man who in pursuit of a young girl was to mow the island of hay in a day. Unfortunately he died in the attempt) and Mushquash Island Creek. There, spend an interesting quiet morning watching a group of young colts race up and down the meadow not more than 25
Enjoying a treat at Ducey’s store
PHOTO: GERRY PEER
Foshey’s Creek
PHOTO: GERRY PEER
REGIONAL PROFILE
metres away. At Colwell’s wharf, another of the St. John River Society’s, a short walk up the wharf road and to the right on the main road, 12 hydro poles, will take you to Elkie’s, a German butcher that sells various meats and sausages. It’s well worth the walk. A sail up the lake will take you to Mott’s Landing Winery for local wines and an excellent anchorage in Big Cove. The next place of interest on the river is Grand Lake. After passing the Gagetown ferry, if you turn to starboard instead of going up Gagetown Creek you come to the hidden entrance to the Jemseg River, the passage to Grand Lake, the largest lake in New Brunswick. It’s a premier freshwater sailing area, with steady winds and room for lots of lake sailing. A unique feature of Grand Lake is Grand Point Bar. It runs more than half a mile out into the lake and drops off to 16 metres at its end. When conditions are right, you will find local boaters with their boats anchored on the bar and adults and children playing in the knee-deep water. There are excellent anchorages such as those at Flowers Cove at the head of the lake, and Douglas Harbour where the Fredericton Yacht Club has taken over the old riverboat wharf, which has rental moorings and an outport station. At the head of the lake is the Salmon River navigable to Chipman, a sawmill town and the longest riverboat run in the system from Saint John.
NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 17
Carrying on back to the river, at the Gagetown ferry is Gagetown, the largest community between Saint John and Fredericton/Oromocto up Gagetown Creek. There is much to do and see with museums, restaurants and a full-service marina. A quiet anchorage can be found out of the current up Mount Creek on the other side of Gagetown Creek. A dinghy ride up Mount Creek will take you to the ruins of Mount House, an early 1700s dwelling unique in its European style of construction. After leaving Gagetown and going on up the creek you come to Grimross Canal. This was dug in the heydays of the riverboats to open the head of Gagetown Creek up to the main river. After passing the new Trans Canada Highway bridge, you come to a popular stop for boaters from the Oromocto and Fredericton area between Ox and Gilbert Islands. The beach at the upper end of Ox is well worth a visit. This anchorage is close to Casey’s Restaurant, another favourite with boaters on Sheffield Channel.
Continuing on up river you next come to Oromocto and Fredericton the capital of New Brunswick and the head of navigation on the St. John River These communities have all one would expect of major towns Sailing on the St. John River in midweek you might pass one or two boats and in many of the anchorages you are all by yourself. Navigational hazards are few. If your keel finds the mud bottom, it does more damage to your ego than the boat. By paddle, power or sail come, enjoy and spend time on this beautiful historic river. Gerry Peer and his wife Pat have cruised the North American seaboard to the Caribbean. Gerry is a member of the Cruising Club of America, the Marrtinon Yacht Club and an honorary life member of the Royal Kennebecasis Yacht Club. He began sailing on the St. John River in his own boat in 1949, and still sails the river and in the Bay of Fundy. AB
18 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER
Boaters and wildlife: SAFELY SHARING OUR WATERS By Alexandra Vance, Canadian Wildlife Federation Boaters are ocean ambassadors, representing a portion of the world’s population who have the special opportunity to experience and explore our oceans and waterways. It is our shared responsibility to protect these waters and the wildlife that rely on them, and to report any wildlife we see that may be in distress. Wildlife Issues Accidents with wildlife do happen. Although disturbances are often unintentional, we may negatively affect animals simply by disrupting them from their normal behavior (e.g., mating, nursing, feeding, and migrating). More harmful incidents (e.g. ship strikes, entanglement in gear) can lead to an emergency in which the animal(s) is in lifethreatening distress, human safety may be at risk, and/or the animal(s) may have died. Many wildlife disturbances and emergencies are preventable simply by paying attention to our actions and obeying marine animal regulations – see CWF Boating Best Practices for more information. cwf-fcf.org Emergency Response Boaters are often the first to see a wildlife emergency at sea, and it is critically important to know what to do in this situation. 1. Do not touch the animal(s) – alive or dead: This is a significant health and safety risk for both you and the animal 2. Document the emergency: o Take photos, if possible o Record the coordinates of your exact location, as well as the date and time o Contact your regional response experts immediately for further advice
The Canada Marine Animal Response Alliance (CMARA) represents Canada’s regional response networks of highly trained specialists with experience and expertise dealing with marine wildlife emergencies. There are two response networks in Atlantic Canada. Together they receive almost 600 incident reports each year and about 200 of these require on-the-ground action. Contact your network: • In New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island: o Maritime Marine Animal Response Network (MMARN) by calling 1-888-567-6277 or by email at marineanimalresponse@gmail.com • In Newfoundland and Labrador: o Whale Release and Strandings Group (WRSG) by calling 1-888-895-3003 or by email at whales@nl.rogers.com In the event of an emergency, contact your regional response network and be prepared to describe the incident as accurately as possible. How YOU Can Help Many of our interactions with marine wildlife are not an emergency, so take the time to enjoy and appreciate these privileges. Become a citizen scientist by identifying the wildlife you see – use the iNaturalist App and join the CWF Wild about Sports program. Get to know the marine animals and other wildlife in your area, volunteer with a network, or support marine and other wildlife conservation with a donation to CWF today! AB PHOTO © MARINE ANIMAL RESPONSE SOCIETY Two pilot whales were refloated during a mass stranding event in shallow waters near Summerside, PEI, in October 2015.
NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 19
Have Boat! Have Summer! Hundreds of Exhibits and Boats as far as the Eye Can See Come see what’s new, on the water Exhibition Park, Halifax • Nova Scotia
www.HalifaxBoatShow.com
COASTAL ATTRACTIONS & BOATING EVENTS Moncton Boat Show April 1-3, 2016 www.monctonboatshow.ca
Canada’s Irish Festival on the Miramichi Canadian Irish folk, and rock and roll festival July 14-17, 2016 1-800-459-3131 or www.miramichi.org
Festival Acadien de Caraquet New Brunswick’s largest annual celebration of Acadian culture August 2016 506-727-2787 www.festivalacadien.ca
Irving Eco-Centre, Bouctouche, N.B. Preserved sand dunes for exploration on New Brunswick’s east coast www.irvingecocentre.com
New Brunswick Sports Fishing Association (NBSFA) Information and tournament schedule for 2016 www.nbsportfishing.net
Northumberland Strait Sailing Association (NStYA) Schedule of yacht races and events in 2016 on the Northumberland Strait www.nstya.com
New Brunswick Sailing Association (NBSA) Yacht and dinghy races and events in New Brunswick 2016, www.nbsailing.nb.ca
New Brunswick Festivals and Events www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca
New Brunswick Museum www.nbm-mnb.ca
BOAT & MOTOR DEALERS, CHANDLERY & SERVICE Phil’s Auto & Recreation, Lincoln, NB 506-446-6135
SeaPro Services, Saint John, NB 506-633-0070
MARINE SERVICES SeaPro Services, Saint John, NB 506-633-0070
DOCK BUILDERS East Coast EZ Dock, Willow Grove, NB 506-642-3625
INSURANCE Fairway Insurance Services, NS 888-245-4741
MacDonald Chisolm Trask Insurance, NS 800-474-9111
Skippers’ Plan 800-661-7211
BOATER EDUCATION BoatSmart! 877-792-3926
NEW BRUNSWICK: BAY OF FUNDY & ST. JOHN RIVER | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 21
REGION NORTHUMBERLAND STRAIT & P.E.I. Map #
Dockage
Max Length
Draft
Power
Bowdridge Landing Murray Harbour, P.E.I. | welcomepei.com | 902-962-2427
34
Y
50'
7'
15 amp
Ballantyne’s Cove Antigonish, N.S. | 902-863-8162
44
Y
50’
6’
20-30 amp
Brudenell Marina (Montague) Brudenell, P.E.I. www.montaguemarina.ca | 902-838-4778
33
Y
60'
5-10'
15-30 amp
Caraquet Marina Bas Caraquet, N.B. www.marinadebascaraquet.ca | 506-727-5039
19
Y
40’
9’
15-30 amp
Cardigan Marina Cardigan Bay, P.E.I. www.villageofcardigan.ca | 902-583-2445
32
Y
50'
8'
15-30 amp
Charlottetown Yacht Club Charlottetown, P.E.I. | www.cyc.pe.ca | 902-892-9065
36
Y
200'
20'
30-50 amp
Cocagne Cape Marina Grande Digue, N.B. www.cocagnecapemarina.com | 506-312-1941
23
Y
42’
6’
15 amp
Cocagne Marina Cocagne, N.B. | www.cocagnemarina.com | 506-852-1048
24
Y
40’
10’
30 amp
Crabbie J’s Marina New Glasgow New Glasgow, N.S. | www.facebook.com/CrabbieJsMarinaAndFreshFishMarket | 902-755-3018
43
Y
50’
9’
15-30 amp
Cribbon’s Point Antigonish, N.S. | 902-863-3907
45
Y
45’
5’
30 amp
Hector Quay Marina Pictou, N.S. www.townofpictou.ca/marina.html | 902-485-6960
42
Y
50’
14’
15 amp
Miramichi Boating and Yacht Club Miramichi, N.B. | www.miramichi.org | 506-773-9949
20
Y
35’
4’
15 amp
Montague Marina Montague, P.E.I. | www.montaguemarina.ca | 902-838-4778
30
Y
100'
12'
30-50 amp
Northport Pier Northport, P.E.I. | www.northportpier.ca | 902-853-2575
28
Y
150'
9'
15 amp
MARINA
P.E.I.
N.S.
N.B.
24 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NORTHUMBERLAND STRAIT & P.E.I.
Marina Listings
LEGEND: Y=Yes N=No W=Washrooms S=Showers L=Laundry U=Unknown
Launch Ramp
Fuel
Water & Ice
Pump Out
Facilities
Storage
Lat
Long
Y
Y
N
Water/Ice
N
W/S
N
46.00"N
62.31”N
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
N
Y
W/S/L
Y
45.51’58”N
61.55’11”W
Y
N
N
Water
N
W/S
N
46.11'N
62.37'W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water
N
W/S/L
Y
47.48’28”N
65.51’20”W
N
Y
Gas
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
N
46.15'N
62.41'W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
Y
46.15'N
63.8'23"W
Y-2
Y
N
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
members only
46.35’N
64.57’W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S
N
46.20’11”N
64.37’38”W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S
N
45.35’28”N
62.38’40”W
N
Y
N
Water
Y
S/L
Y
45.45’34”N
61.53’W
N
Y
N
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
45.40’N
62.42’W
N
Y
Gas
Water/Ice
Y
W/S
Y
47.1’22”N
65.29’58”W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
N
46.10'N
62.39'W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
N
46.47'8"N
64.04'4"W
Moorings
boats
near
N
N
storage available down the road 100ft
NORTHUMBERLAND STRAIT & P.E.I. | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 25
REGION NORTHUMBERLAND STRAIT & P.E.I. Map #
Dockage
Max Length
Pictou Marina Pictou, N.S. | www.pictoumarina.com | 902-485-9155
41
Y
60’
Pointe de Chene Yacht Club Pointe de Chene, N.B. | www.pcyc-nb.ca | 506-532-6800
27
Y
Quartermaster Marine Charlottetown, P.E.I. www.quartermastermarine.com | 902-566-4454
35
Richibucto Marina Richibucto, N.B. | www.richibucto.org | 506-523-2690
MARINA
Draft
Power
6’
15-30 amp
50’
7’
30 amp
Y
56'
15'
30-50 amp
22
Y
45’
5’
30 amp
Sawmill Point Boat Basin Bouctouche, N.B. www.bouctouchemarina.com | 506-743-1100
25
Y
50'
7.5'
30 amp
Shediac Bay Marina Shediac, N.B. | www.sbyc.ca | 506-532-7007
26
Y
54'
7'
15-30 amp
Souris Marina Souris, P.E.I. | www.sourismarina.com | 902-687-2233
31
Y
60'
18'
15-30 amp
Stanley Bridge Marina Stanley Bridge, P.E.I. www.boatingpei.com | 902-866-2352
29
Y
40'
6'
30 amp
Station Wharf Marina Inc. Miramichi, N.B. www.stationwharfmarina.com | 506-624-7300
21
Y
50'
8'
15-30 amp
Summerside Yacht Club Marina Summerside, P.E.I. | www.silverfox-pei.com | 902-436-2153
38
Y
90'
10'
30-50 amp
Sunrise Shore Marina Tatmagouche, N.S. www.sunrisemarinacottages.ca | 902-456-6433
40
Y
38’
6’
15 amp
37
Y
40'
5'
15 amp
39
Y
36'
6'
30 amp
Victoria Harbour Victoria, P.E.I. | www.victoriabythesea.ca
West Point Marina West Point, P.E.I. www.westpointharmony.ca | 902-859-2810 P.E.I.
N.S.
N.B.
26 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NORTHUMBERLAND STRAIT & P.E.I.
low tide
Marina Listings
LEGEND: Y=Yes N=No W=Washrooms S=Showers L=Laundry U=Unknown
Launch Ramp
Fuel
Water & Ice
Pump Out
Facilities
Storage
Lat
Long
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water
N
W/S
Y
45.40’56”N
62.41’29”W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
N
46.59’13”N
64.39’31”W
N
Y
N
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
46.15'N
63.08'W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S
N
46.41’N
64.52’W
N
Y
Gas
Water/Ice
Y
W/S
N
46.28'5"N
64.42'W
N
Y
N
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
N
46.13'40"N
64.32'50"W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
N
46.21'N
62.15'W
N
Y
Gas
Water/Ice
N
W
N
46.28'N
63.27'W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W
N
47.01'56"N
65.28'7"W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
46.23'N
63.47'W
N
Y
Gas
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
Y
45.43’N
63.15’W
N
Y
Water
N
W
N
46.13'N
63.29'W
Y
Y
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
N
46.37'N
64.23'W
Moorings
can be arranged
N
can be taken for gas (can get diesal from fishermen key)
Diesel
NORTHUMBERLAND STRAIT & P.E.I. | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 27
REGIONAL PROFILE Prince Edward Island, though low on the horizon, is high on the to-do list for a sailor. When crossing from Ballantyne’s Cove, N.S. to Murray Harbour, PEI, the Cape George lighthouse high atop Cape George has been a beacon to mariners since 1861 and is a great aid to navigation. It’s best to head out to the Cape George bell buoy and line up the stern with the Cape George lighthouse and the bow with the Cape Bear lighthouse, also in PEI. The Cape
Bear lighthouse was the first land station to receive the SOS call from the Titanic. On a clear day the Cape Bear lighthouse comes into view at 14 miles and to the right of the lighthouse is a distinctive red bank called Murray Head. Like the rest of the province, coastal erosion is an ongoing concern and has necessitated the move of the lighthouse on two occasions, first in 1946, then again in 2014, so it doesn’t fall over the bank. Once around Murray Head, the entrance to Murray Harbour, presents itself. Unless you have local knowledge, entering Murray Harbour is best done during a flooding
Two hurricane holes on The Gentle Island BY ROB DUNBAR
Wood Islands
28 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NORTHUMBERLAND STRAIT & P.E.I.
PHOTO: JOHN SYLVESTER
or slack tide as the powerful river current can be challenging. Given the river current and shifting channel, it is best to navigate during daylight hours. The shifting navigable channel is very well marked with a series of day marks. Once getting passed the currents and submerged mud banks, the placid waters of Murray Harbour are only the beginning of a wonderful stay in this picturesque village. The South River Murray Harbour Marina (N 46 0’ 11” W 62 31’ 38”) is located at the very head of Murray River as the nearby bridge impedes further boat travel. Nestled conveniently close to all amenities
this well-groomed island paradise has to offer, the lay of the land makes the marina an ideal place to ride out any storm. And, of course, the local population is typical of the Island’s great hospitality. To celebrate a landfall in Murray Harbour, I recommend a celebratory meal at Brehaut’s Restaurant, which has been owned and operated by the same family since 1976. Murray Harbour is also the final resting place of the Nellie J. Banks, the rum-running schooner. After the RCMP seized the vessel, she was sold to Capt. John Maguire of Guysborough, N.S. who renamed her after his daughter, Leona G. Maguire. Having been tied up for six years, the locals complained the ship was an eyesore and was burned without the Maguire’s knowledge. Capt. Maguire was employed as captain of the Borden – Cape Tormentine car ferry, MV Abegweit, and could not get to Murray Harbour to rescue his ship from the flames. If Maguire had the time and money he could have repaired the ship since he was a master shipbuilder. While sailing my CL 16 Celtic Kiss along PEI’s southern coast my next port of call was the Wood Islands Ferry Terminal. The unbroken red banks offer no shelter along the route from Murray Harbour. This coast is very picturesque starting with the bulging red bank Murray Head and the Cape Bear Lighthouse. The high-banked coastline shows erosion marks throughout. In many places green grass that once sat atop the bank earlier in the year have slid onto the red banks showing how this coast is quickly eroding. PHOTO: BRIAN SIMPSON
Murray Harbour
NORTHUMBERLAND STRAIT & P.E.I. | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 29
Murray Harbour
Cape Bear Lighthouse PHOTO: EMILY O’BRIEN
When approaching the Wood Islands Ferry Terminal (N 45 57’ 57.9” W 62 45’ 3.7”) be wary of the car ferries Confederation and Holiday Island. The Wood Islands lighthouse was first lit in 1876 and is the second oldest lighthouse on Prince Edward Island. The lighthouse itself is operational and is also a museum with 11 theme rooms that is open to the public from mid-July to mid-September. Like the Cape Bear Lighthouse, the Wood Islands lighthouse was moved back 75 feet from the edge of the red cliff in 2009 before it fell into the Northumberland
PHOTO: SHIRLEY GALLANT
Strait. Erosion is a huge problem on the island and the rate can vary depending on the severity of storms. The lighthouse is the focal point of the day use provincial park that offers ample space for seaside walks and magnificent sunrises and sunsets. The construction of wharves for the ferry service has provided an excellent hurricane hole that offers protection from any wind. Food services and gift shops are at the terminal, however, if you want an excellent lobster supper, Crabby’s Seafood is located on the wharf and is supplied daily by the local fishing fleet. AB
Seaming With Tradition Since 1910
902-634-9338 office@stevenssailloft.ca www.stevenssailloft.ca 30 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NORTHUMBERLAND STRAIT & P.E.I.
COASTAL ATTRACTIONS & BOATING EVENTS Charlottetown Race Week Charlottetown, PEI July 14-16, 2016 Hosted annually by the Charlottetown Yacht Club www.cyc.pe.ca
North Lake Harbour The Canada Tunacup Challenge September 2016 www.tunacupchallenge.com
Northumberland Strait Sailing Association
The PEI Sailing Association Yacht and Dinghy races and events in Prince Edward Island schedule 2016 www.peisailing.com
Anne of Green Gables Lucy Maud Montgomery’s story comes alive in Cavendish, PEI. Theatre production in Charlottetown. 1-800-463-4PEI www.gov.pe.ca/greengables
PEI Festivals and Events www.tourismpei.ca
Schedule of yacht races and events in 2016 www.nstya.com
BOAT & MOTOR DEALERS, CHANDLERY & SERVICE Adventure Motors, New Glasgow 902-928-1015
Antigonish Rent-all, Antigonish, NS 902-863-6633
INSURANCE Fairway Insurance Services, NS 888-245-4741
Pictou Marina, Pictou, NS
MacDonald Chisolm Trask Insurance, NS
902-485-9155
800-474-9111
Quartermaster Marine, Charlottetown, PEI
Skippers’ Plan
902-566-4450
800-661-7211
BOATER EDUCATION BoatSmart! 877-792-3926
NORTHUMBERLAND STRAIT & P.E.I. | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 33
Quebec 17 19
MARITIME MARINAS
18
No
rt
hu
N
m
20 21
W
E
New Brunswick
24
25
26
Maine
11
10
9
12
14
13
27
7
8
6 15
5 4 2
16
y —iver d n R Fu hn o 73
3
62 61
Ba yo St. f J
1
1 Valley Yacht Club at the Woodstock Marina 2 St Andrew’s Market Wharf 3 Saint John Marina Ltd 4 Saint John Power Boat Club 5 Brundage Point River Centre 6 Evandale Resort 7 Gagetown Marina 8 Oromocto Boat Club 9 Regent Street Wharf 10 Centennial Park Sailboat Marina 11 Mactaquac Marina 12 Fredericton Yacht Club 13 Fredricton Yacht Club (Douglas Harbour) 14 Chipman Marine Wharf 15 Rothesay Yacht Club 16 Royal Kennebaccasis Yacht Club 17 Dalhousie Regional Marina 18 Bathurst Marina MARINA DETAILS: PAGE 12–15
63 63 64 65 70
Nova Scotia 46 Venus Cove Marina 47 Guysborough Marina 48 Cape Canso Marina 49 Liscombe Lodge Marina 50 Petpeswick Yacht Club 51 Shearwater Yacht Club 52 Alderney Marina Ltd 53 Dartmouth Yacht Club 54 Bedford Basin Yacht Club 55 Waterfront Development
39
22
S
New Brunswick
28
23
56 Armdale Yacht Club 57 Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron 58 Shining Waters 59 St Margaret Sailing Club 60 Marine Services East 61 Chester Yacht Club 62 South Shore Marine 63 Gold River Marina 64 Atlantica Marina Oak Island
34 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016
72
71
68
69 69
Northumberland Strait & P.E.I.
mb
31 Souris Marina 32 Cardigan Marina 33 Brudenell Marina 34 Bowdridge Landing 35 Quartermaster Marine 36 Charlottetown Yacht Club 37 Victoria Harbour 38 Summerside Yacht Club Marina 39 West Point Marina
19 Caraquet Marina 20 Miramichi Boating and Yacht Club 21 Station Wharf Marina Inc. 22 Richibucto Marina 23 Cocagne Cape Marina 24 Cocagne Marina 25 Sawmill Point Boat Basin 26 Shediac Bay Marina 27 Pointe de Chene Yacht Club 28 Northport Pier 29 Stanley Bridge Marina 30 Montague Marina
nd St
rait — P. E.I.
29 38
Cap e
30
32
76
33
37
40
41
42
43
Nova Scotia 49
56 56
54 54
53 50
57 51 58
ia t o 55 Sc 66 a ov 67 N ts al a 59
Co
60
85
46 47
52
65 Mahone Bay Civic Marina 66 Lunenburg Yacht Club 67 Lunenburg Zwicker Docks 68 Bridgewater Marina 69 LaHave River Yacht Club 70 Brooklyn Marina 71 Shelburne Harbour Yacht Club 72 Killam Bros., Marinas 73 Digby Marina MARINA DETAILS: PAGES 50–53
83
84
74
45
78 82
75
44
34
35
36
81
77
31
P.E.I.
80
79
ton Bre
e rla
40 Sunrise Shore Marina 41 Pictou Marina 42 Hector Quay Marina 43 Crabbie J’s Marina New Glasgow 44 Ballantyne’s Cove 45 Cribbon’s Point MARINA DETAILS: PAGES 24–27
48
Denotes Pump-out Station
86
*Marina locations are approximate Cape Breton 74 Strait of Canso Yacht Club 75 Whycocomagh Waterfront Centre Association 76 Cape Breton Boat Yard 77 Baddeck Marine 78 Bras d’Or Yacht Club 79 Ross Ferry Marine Park 80 Northern Yacht Club 81 Dobson Yacht Club 82 Barra Strait Marina 83 Ben Eoin 84 St. Peter’s Marina 85 Lennox Passage Yacht Club 86 Isle Madame Boat Club MARINA DETAILS: PAGES 42–43
Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 35
Labrador
Newfoundland
Nova Scotia
Newfoundland 89
87
88 91
92
90 93 94
Newfoundland & Labrador 87 Bay of Islands Yacht Club 88 Lewisporte Marina Complex 89 Fogo Island Marine Information Center 90 Clarenville Rotary Marina 91 Bonavista Harbour Authority 92 Dock Marina, Trinity 93 Admiral’s Marina 94 Veterans Quay Marina 95 Holyrood Marina/TerraNova YC 96 Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club MARINA DETAILS: PAGE 64–65
36 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016
96 95
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REGION CAPE BRETON Map #
Dockage
Max Length
Draft
Power
Baddeck Marine Baddeck | www.baddeckmarine.com | 902-295-2434
77
Y
50'
7'
30-50 amp
Barra Strait Marina Grand Narrows www.grandnarrowswaterfront.com | 902-622-1313
82
Y
100'
8-12'
15 amp
Ben Eoin Ben Eoin | www.beneoinmarina.com | 902-828-1099
83
Y
80'
10'
15-30-60 amp
Bras d’Or Yacht Club Baddeck | www.bradoryachtclub.ca | 902-295-2107
78
Y
35'
6'
30 amp
Cape Breton Boat Yard Baddeck | 902-295-2664
76
Y
60'
8'
30 amp
Dobson Yacht Club Westmount www.dobsonyachtclub.org | 902-562-0062
81
Y
65'
9'
30-50 amp
Isle Madame Boat Club Arichat | www.islemadameboatclub.ca 902-226-0773 or 902-300-1364
86
Y
45'
9'
30 amp
Lennox Passage Yacht Club D’Escousse | www.lpyc.ca | 902-631-0069
85
Y
60'
10-12'
30 amp
Northern Yacht Club North Sydney www.northernyachtclub.ca | 902-794-9121
80
Y
60'
15'
30 amp
Ross Ferry Marina Ross Ferry www.rossferrymarinepark.weebly.com | 902-674-0148
79
day time only
40'
16'
N
Strait of Canso Yacht Club Port Hawkesbury www.straitofcansoyc.ca | 902-625-1918
74
Y
40'
6'
30 amp
St. Peter’s Marina St Peters | www.st-peters-marina.com | 902-535-2729
84
Y
150'
13'
30-50 amp
Whycocomagh Waterfront Centre Association Whycocomagh | www.hogoma.ca | 902-623-0919
75
Y
40'
8'
N
MARINA
42 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | CAPE BRETON
limited
Marina Listings
LEGEND: Y=Yes N=No W=Washrooms S=Showers L=Laundry U=Unknown
Launch Ramp
Fuel
Water & Ice
Pump Out
Facilities
Storage
Lat
Long
Y
N
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
46.6'N
60.44'52"W
Y
Y
N
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
N
45.57'38"
60.47'67"
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
45.58.907N
60.25.884W
Y
Y
N
Water/Ice
N
W/S
Y
46.6'W
60.47'55"W
Y
N
N
Water
Y
W/S/L
Y
46.5'46"N
60.45'12"W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
46.08'14"N
60.12'16'W
N
Y
arrangements can be made for fuel
Water
N
W/S
members only
45.30'N
61'2"W
N
Y
N
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
N
45.35'41"N
60.57'42"W
Moorings
N
Y
N
N
Y
30 ton lift
arrangements can be made for fuel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
46.11'20"N
60.15'56"W
N
Y
N
Water
Y
W/S
N
46.07'N
60.35'W
Y,2
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
Y
45.36'51"N
51.21'53"W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
45.39'40"N
60.52'32"W
Y
Y
N
Water
Y
W/S/L
N
U
U
more next year
CAPE BRETON | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 43
REGIONAL PROFILE
Adventures by sea
SEVEN SPECTACULAR BOATING TRIPS ALONG CAPE BRETON’S CAPTIVATING COASTS WRITTEN BY JOCELYN BETHUNE The Mi’kmaq: On the Water Before there were towns, before there were settlements, before anyone arrived here, the Mi’kmaq were here. For millennia, they lived along these shores, travelling these very waterways for their food, their shelter and their lives. The Mi’kmaq are an Algonquin people, sharing many of the same words, same hunting styles and traditions. But it is the influence of the waterways—the Bras d’Or, our rivers and the Cabot and Northumberland Straits —and the Mi’kmaq modes of travel that distinguish them from other Aboriginals. The Mi’kmaq built small canoes for rivers and streams, larger canoes with sails for the Bras d’Or and 28-foot seagoing canoes for the straits. Of the five native communities on Cape Breton Island, four are found on the shore of the Bras d’Or. Here are some highlights: • Anchor near Eskasoni and you will see evidence of traditions with teepees along the shore. Take part in an Eskasoni Cultural Journey and you can learn their ancient customs. • At the Wagmatcook Cultural Centre, discover the ancient petroglyph. • Dock at the Whycocomagh Waterfront Centre and take a hike up Salt Mountain to see the
lake like the early First Nations did. • Visit Potletek in August and you will witness centuries-old celebrations on Chapel Island. • In Sydney Harbour, dock at Dobson Yacht Club and find your way to Membertou Heritage Park to discover the history of this urban First Nation community. Baddeck: A Glimpse into the Mind of a Genius Imagine it’s 1919 and you are out for a sail in Baddeck Bay. Near Beinn Bhreagh – home of telephone inventor Alexander Graham Bell, you spy a 60-foot-long rocket–shaped boat at the wharf. It is obvious the two massive V-12 aircraft engines attached to it make it go really, really fast. But before you can consider its possibilities, you observe the white-bearded 72-year-old Bell, alone in a rowboat, not far from shore. Oddly, it appears as though he is climbing a ladder that extends unseen below the rowboat. Now fast-forward to the present. Visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site and you can see the original hydrofoil (and a full-scale replica with those engines attached!). The original shattered world speed records, travelling 113 kilometers per hour on Baddeck Bay in 1919. Ask your guide about Bell’s ‘submarine box,’ an
44 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | CAPE BRETON
Sail into historic Louisbourg Harbour ALL PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED FROM CRUISE CAPE BRETON ASSOCIATION
enclosed and watertight box he constructed below a rowboat. It was outfitted with windows and an electric light so Bell could examine how far light travelled underwater. Researchers just recently rediscovered Bell’s writings about it. Take a white-glove tour in Bell’s workshop and get a glimpse inside the mind of a genius. Barra Strait: A man, a plan, a railway span, and a silver cup for hockey fans. When it was constructed in the late 19th century, the Barra Strait railway bridge was an engineering marvel because of the length of the span (almost a mile), the depth of the strait (almost 90 feet) and the challenging undercurrents (caused by the meeting of the north & south basins of the Bras d’Or Lake). When it officially opened in 1890 the Governor General of Canada arrived from Ottawa to drive the first rail car across it. Turns out Lord Stanley was a big hockey fan, too. Not long after his appearance on the Barra Strait Bridge, Lord Stanley donated a silver punch bowl to be awarded to Canada’s top-ranked amateur hockey team each season. Before you sail past the railway bridge (perhaps singing Stompin’ Tom’s “Hockey Song”), dock at the Barra Strait Marina for a delicious homemade meal at the Wheelhouse Café; then visit the Highland
Village Museum. Ask to see one of the few remaining dories hand built by renowned boat builders, the Kennedy Brothers of Alba, who may have witnessed Lord Stanley’s railcar trip across the Barra Strait Bridge. Ben Eoin: The sound of music After a great day on the waters of the Bras d’Or, it is time to stretch your legs and hit a few around The Lakes Golf Course. Dock at the Ben Eoin Yacht Club & Marina for convenient access to the golf course and fine dining at The Birches Inn. Not far down the road is the birthplace and former home of Canadian music legend, the late Rita MacNeil. The renovated schoolhouse where she once lived is now a tea room where fans can
Lighthouse at Kidston Island, Baddeck
CAPE BRETON | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 45
Acadian rug hooking in Cheticamp
visit and enjoy her memory and a wee spot of tea. Also from nearby Big Pond is the Grammywinning singer-songwriter Gordie Sampson and in the earliest days of settlement, ancestors of Johnny Cash settled this coast. If you listen closely, some say these hills are alive with the sound of their music. Louisbourg: dozens of adventures in one The sense of past is palpable here especially sailing into Louisbourg Harbour. Ahead is the massive reconstructed fortress, considered the jewel in the French crown in the 18th century. Below the waves, lie wrecks and hopes dashed. The modern day Fortress Louisbourg National Historic Site (run by Parks Canada) is about as close as you can get to stepping back in time without an actual time machine. In one day you can eat authentic 18th-century food, march with costumed animators and fire a cannon ball at imaginary invaders. Ask about their camping program to spend the night inside the fortress walls and stargaze like its 1744. Mira River: Pirates of the Mira Legend has it that two centuries ago, this 55-kilometre river was a pirate hideout. Ships laden with riches, sailing to and from Louisbourg, the French North American capital in the mid-18th century right, had to pass the mouth of the Mira River. Many believe that nefarious types used the Mira to launch an attack. A hidden cove, just inside the mouth of the river was said to be the perfect place to strip and plunder ships. There are claims that locals found evidence of dozens of sunken boats on bottom of this cove years later. Then, there was
the rock found nearby, engraved with the words: ‘Caption Kidd, deprived of mercy…’ Cheticamp: Oh-la-la One of the largest French Acadian communities on Cape Breton Island, this is the place to anchor and soak up French Acadian culture. There are plenty of restaurants and pubs with local Acadian favourites on the menu and Acadian lives in the folksongs. Most people who live here were influenced by the landscape; the sea and its moods with the rugged Highland Mountains as a backdrop. One of the best places to view this dramatic scenery is the Skyline Trail, one of 26 spectacular trails in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The Skyline, a 7.5- kilometer, 405-meter high headland trail at the top of French Mountain offers a bird’seye view of the ocean that is transformative, meditative and absolutely breathtaking. Bonus Tall Tale for a Campfire Adventure: Sea Serpents: For a few years in the early 20th century, we had our own Loch Ness monster. At least there were reported sightings of long snake-like creatures tormenting sailors and fishermen. Some describe it as 200-feet long, with its head rising 50 feet out of the water. In Sydney Harbour, two fishermen claim it chased them in their dory. They rowed frantically to a nearby schooner. Once safe, they tell the media this is the first time they have seen such a sea inhabitant in waters around Cape Breton and “it was not altogether a very attractive one.” So after a long glorious day on the water and the campfire on the beach has begun, remember this story. AB
46 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | CAPE BRETON
COASTAL ATTRACTIONS & BOATING EVENTS Race the Cape
Fortress Louisbourg
July 18-24, 2016 www.racethecape.ca
Louisbourg, N.S.
Baddeck Race Week August 1-6, 2016 www.brasdoryachtclub.ca More 2016 boating events visit www.boatingcapebreton.com
Celtic Colours The largest celebration of Celtic heritage in North America. Music and more takes place at venues across the island. October 2016 www.celtic-colours.com
This recreation of the 18th century French fortress is a National Historic Park. www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ns/louisbourg/ index.aspx
Marconi Museum A National Historic Museum dedicated to Guglielmo Marconi, the first man to transmit wireless Morse Code. 902-295-2069 or www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ns/marconi/ index.aspx
Cape Breton Festivals and Events www.cbisland.com
Alexander Graham Bell Museum Baddeck, N.S. This museum offers insight into the scientific mind of the great inventor of the telephone. 902-295-2069 or www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/ns/ grahambell/index.aspx
BOAT & MOTOR DEALERS, CHANDLERY & SERVICE Island Resources, Baddeck Marine, Baddeck, NS
MacDonald Chisolm Trask Insurance, NS
902-295-2434
800-474-9111
Mackleys Equipment, Sydney, NS
Skippers’ Plan
902-295-2434
800-661-7211
INSURANCE
BOATER EDUCATION
Fairway Insurance Services, NS
BoatSmart!
888-245-4741
877-792-3926
Sail Nova Scotia 902-425-5450 Ext 312
48 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | CAPE BRETON
With professional and courteous service P.O. Box 420, 23 Water St. Baddeck, NS B0E 1B0 p: 902-295-2434 f: 902-295-2379 www.baddeckmarine.com baddeckmarine@ns.sympatico.ca
Your full Service Marina, Repair and Refit Facility on the Bras d’or Lakes. • Dockage & Moorings • Marine Mechanic Available • Marine Store • Showers & Laundry • Haulout Facilities
• Outside & Indoor Storage • Service Shop • Wireless Internet • Fiberglass & Composite Repairs • Painting & Refinishing
REGION COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE Map #
Dockage
Max Length
Draft
Power
Alderney Marina Ltd Dartmouth | dube2@eastlink.ca | 902-209-1894
52
Y
35'
7'
30 amp
Armdale Yacht Club Halifax | www.armdaleyachtclub.ns.ca | 902-477-4617
56
Y
45'
10'
15, 30 amp
Bedford Basin Yacht Club Bedford | www.bbyc.ca | 902-835-3729
54
Y
40'
8'
30 amp
Bridgewater Marina Bridgewater | www.bridgewatermarina.ca | 902-527-6278
68
Y
40'
12'
30 amp
Brooklyn Marina Brooklyn | www.brooklynmarina.ca | 902-354-4028
70
Y
45'
6'
30 amp
Cape Canso Marina Canso | 902-366-2937
48
Y
50'
8'
30 amp
Chester Yacht Club Chester | www.chesteryachtclub.ca | 902-275-3747
61
N
60'
25'
N
Dartmouth Yacht Club Dartmouth | www.dyc.ns.ca | 902-468-6050
53
Y
44'
9'
15-30 amp
73
Y
60'
9'
30 amp
East River Marine Chester | www.eastrivermarine.ca | 902-229-3511
60
Y
100'
15'
30-50 amp
Gold River Marina Gold River | www.goldrivermarina.com | 902-275-1322
63
Y
46'
10'
30 amp
Guysborough Marina Guysborough www.guysboroughmarina.com | 902-533-2052
47
Y
26'
20'
50 amp
Killam Bros., Marinas Yarmouth | killambrosmarina.com | 902-740-4780
72
Y
200'
14'
30, 50, 80, 100 amp
LaHave River Yacht Club LaHave | www.lryc.ca | 902-688-3177
69
Y
50'
7'
15 amp
Liscombe Lodge Marina Liscombe Mills | www.liscombelodge.ca | 902-779-2307
49
Y
100'
10'
30-50 amp
Lunenburg Yacht Club Princess Inlet | www.lyc.ns.ca | 902-634-3745
66
Y
40'
6'
30 amp
Lunenburg Zwicker Docks Lunenburg | www.boatlocker.ca | 902-640-3202
67
Y
110'
20'
30 amp
MARINA
Digby Marina Digby | www.rwnsyc.ca
50 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE
Marina Listings
LEGEND: Y=Yes N=No W=Washrooms S=Showers L=Laundry U=Unknown
Moorings
Launch Ramp
Fuel
Water & Ice
Pump Out
Facilities
Storage
Lat
Long
Y
Y
N
Water
N
W/S
N
44.39'N
63.34'34"W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
N
Y
W/S
Y
44.38'58"N
63.30'47"W
Y
Y
N
Water/Ice
N
W/S
Y
44.43'35.54"N
63.39'51.27"W
N
N
N
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
U
U
2
Y
N
Water
N
W/S
limited
Y
44.02'N
64.41'54"W
Y
Y
N
Water
N
W/S/L
N
45.20'15"N
60.59'05"W
Y
N
N
N
N
W
N
44.32'12"N
64.31'W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S
Y
44.42'N
63.37'W
Y
Y
High test Gas & Diesel
Water
N
N
Y
44.39'N
65.49'W
Y
N
N
Water
N
W
Y
44.34'N
64.10'19"W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
W/S/L
Y
44.32'49"N
64.18'58"W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water
Y
W/S
Y
45.23'40"N
61.29'58"W
Y
On waterfront
Gas/Diesel
Water
N
W/S/L
N
43.50'N
66.7'W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S
Y
44.18'43"N
64.24'34"W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
N
45.00'52"N
62.06'38"W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S
On Trailer Only
44.24'30"N
64.19'30"W
Y
N
N
Water/Ice
Y
S/W
Y
44.22'N
64.19'W
N
can be done by appointment
COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 51
REGION COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE Map #
Dockage
Max Length
Draft
Power
Mahone Bay Civic Marina Town of Mahone Bay www.mahonebaycivicmarina.ca | 902-624-0348
65
Y
75'
16'
30-50 amp
Oak Island Marina Western Shore www.atlanticaoakisland.com | 800-565-5075
64
Y
40'
12'
30 amp
Petpeswick Yacht Club Musquoduboit Harbour www.petpeswickyachtclub.ca | 902-889-2896
50
Y
40'
4'
20 amp
Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron Halifax www.rnsys.com | 902-477-2595
57
Y
160'
16'
30-200 amp
Shearwater Yacht Club Shearwater www.swyc.ca | 902-469-8590
51
N
40'
10’
only at mast crane dock
Shelburne Harbour Yacht Club Shelburne www.shyc.ca | 902-875-4757
71
Y
55'
11'
15-30 amp town dock 50 amp
Shining Waters Tantallon www.shiningwaters.ca | 902-826-3625
58
Y
40'
10'
30 amp
South Shore Marine Chester www.southshoremarine.ca | 902-275-3711
62
Service Dock
60'
10'
at dock
St. Margaret Sailing Club St Margaret’s Bay www.smsc.ca | 902-823-1089
59
Y
55'
8'
15-30 amp
Venus Cove Marina Mulgrave 902-747-2788
46
Y
U
U
Y
Waterfront Development Halifax/Lunenburg www.my-waterfront.ca/marina | 902-229-2628
55
Y
300'
25'
30, 50, 10O amp
MARINA
low tide
52 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE
Marina Listings
LEGEND: Y=Yes N=No W=Washrooms S=Showers L=Laundry U=Unknown
Moorings
Launch Ramp
Fuel
Water & Ice
Pump Out
Facilities
Storage
Lat
Long
Y
Y
N
Water/Ice
Y
W/S
Y
44.26'88"N
64.22'45"W
Y
N
Gas
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
N
44.31'3"N
64.18'2"W
Y
Y
N
Water/Ice
N
W
Y
44.42'32"N
63.09'45"W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
44.37'16.90"N
63.34'49.8"W
Y
Y
N
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
Y
44.47'43"N
63.31'28"W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
N
43.45'29.36"N
65.19'21.32"W
Y
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
Y
W/S/L
Y
44.39'470"N
63.54'771"W
N
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S
Y
44.33'35"N
64.17'W
Y
Y
N
Water/Ice
N
W/S
N
44.38'1"N
63.55'1"W
Y
Y
N
Water
N
W
N
45.36'W
61.22'N
N
N
can accommodate, trucked in
Water/Ice
N
W
N
44.38'N
63.34'W
Y
travel lift
N
COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 53
REGIONAL PROFILE
Wild, seabound coast:
Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore BY SARA SPIKE AND PAUL SPIKE Jeddore Harbour PHOTOS: SARA SPIKE
The Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia is a sailor’s wilderness of hidden natural gems with a long history bound to the sea. Spanning more than 350 kilometres from Dartmouth to Guysborough, this wild stretch of coastline offers the serenity of pristine natural seascapes and a warm reception from the big-hearted locals. This is not an area for marina hopping; instead, pack what you’ll need and take your time exploring the many inlets and islands along the coast. Bask in the solitude; you might not see another sail for days. Sailing east from Halifax Harbour, the
Fisherman’s Reserve at Three Fathom Harbour is an eclectic collection of outbuildings and a good refuge if needed. Nearby are the famous surfing beaches of Lawrencetown and Martinique. The coast is sparsely populated with small fishing villages and few significant population centres. Your best bets for supplies before Canso are in Jeddore, Sheet Harbour, or Sherbrooke, where there are groceries, liquor stores, restaurants, and gas located not too far from the water. Don’t hesitate to ask the locals for a hand or a lift; most people are more than happy to help out. At Jeddore, two nearby museums tell the history
54 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE
of the area. The Fisherman’s Life Museum illustrates life in the late 1800s and Memory Lane Heritage Village the 1940s. Some of the most rewarding sailing along the Eastern Shore is found among the coastal archipelagos between Clam Harbour and Marie Joseph, a remarkable salt-water wilderness known collectively as the Eastern Shore Islands. Hundreds of pristine wild islands boast a diversity of natural landscapes and ecosystems— rocky outcroppings and green headlands, dense forests, vibrant salt marshes, craggy barrens, white crescent beaches, and seawalls of oceansmoothed stone. Take the inside passage, spend the day cruising, and then choose an anchorage off your very own island. Most are publicly owned so feel free to explore them. This area also includes two major beaches at Clam Harbour and Taylor Head. Both feature long sandy expanses and rewarding coastal hiking trails. Clam Harbour hosts an annual sandcastle contest in August. Near the southern end of the Eastern Shore Islands is Wolfe’s Island, where Big Sandy Cove provides a pleasant anchorage and a squeaky sand beach. Shelter Cove in Pope’s Harbour is another wonderful spot; from the head of the cove, a short walk leads to two back-to-back crescent beaches. Nearby, Murphy’s Camping on the Ocean in Murphy’s Cove provides marina amenities while Coastal Adventures outfitters in Tangier rents equipment for this popular kayaking destination. Further along, Hawbolt’s Cove in Beaver Harbour provides a cozy anchorage behind a natural spit, and Turner’s Island, off beautiful Marie Joseph Harbour, has a quiet anchorage and a small beach. The islands at the northern end of the chain are home to seasonal colonies of seabirds and grey seals. There are countless favourite spots waiting to be discovered here, so be sure to set aside some time to explore this beautiful and tranquil area. Nestled in this unspoiled natural setting is one of Nova Scotia’s most charming resorts, Liscombe Lodge. Anyone who has had the pleasure of boating up the Liscomb River will
tell you about the invariably friendly and helpful Chester Rudolf who manages the marina. Berths and moorings are available with showers, laundry, and other amenities including access to the heated pool and sauna. The restaurants are excellent and famous for their planked Atlantic salmon, cooked over coals in an outdoor oven. Leaving behind the luxuries of Liscombe, sailors return to the tranquil wilderness of the coast. Retrace the past by sailing up the St Mary’s River for a visit to Sherbrooke Village, an extensive living history museum depicting a lumber and shipping town in the late 1800s. Another note for history buffs: several of the lighthouses in Guysborough County have retained their older-style white and red square buildings; watch for them along the coast, including at Port Bickerton, where there is also a museum. Just past it, a wharf and fine anchorage can be found at Neverfail Cove in Fisherman’s Harbour. Country Harbour is a long, wide, almost fjord-like inlet with its steep forested banks and there is good anchorage behind Mount Misery. Cross Tor Bay with its Acadian communities and enter another stretch of remarkable wild islands. Yankee Cove in Whitehead Harbour is a wonderfully sheltered and quiet spot to anchor. The Canso Coastal Barrens Wilderness Area comprises much of the headland. Here the granite bedrock is exposed to the elements, creating dramatic landscapes of white
Ship Harbour
COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 55
Jeddore Harbour
windswept stone, craggy barrens, and erratic boulders, not unlike scenes around Peggy’s Cove. Nip in through Andrews’s Passage and tie up at the full-service marina in the fishing town of Canso, home to the annual Stan Rogers Folk Festival in July. Tours are available to the National Historic Site on Grassy Island, depicting life in the early 1700s. Finish your trip along the Eastern Shore in
the best way possible, with a pint of locally brewed ale and a plate of fish and chips in the picturesque town of Guysborough, where a full-service waterfront marina offers berths and moorings, and the Rare Bird Pub and craft brewery overlooks the harbour. The Eastern Shore includes the places that inspired Stan Rogers and the communities where Helen Creighton collected some of her most famous songs, including “Farewell to Nova Scotia.” Whether you cruise its entire length or explore just a few of its islands and inlets, you will experience outstanding natural seascapes and feel the deep history of the people who have lived on and loved this wild seabound coast. Sara Spike is a historian and editor. Paul Spike is her father, a Christmas tree grower and retired DNR forest ranger. They sail an old C&C 24 out of Jeddore Harbour. AB
56 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE
“Better by Design” Who taught you how to drive your boat? If it wasn’t an instructor with CPSECP, you may have something more to learn. Meet Gary Case, CPS-ECP Instructor from Avalon Power and Sail Squadron, NL. Gary has been a sail boater for 25 years; cruising mostly in and out of the bays around Eastern Newfoundland aboard a Grampian 28. He uses this experience to teach 9 of our 16 courses. Our Instructors are boaters, too! Register today at: www.boatingcourses.ca
Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons Escadrilles canadiennes de plaisance www.boatingcourses.ca | 1-888-CPS-BOAT
REGIONAL PROFILE
Gold River Marina in Mahone Bay PHOTO: GOLD RIVER MARINA
58 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE
Destination, Mahone Bay
TURN RIGHT OUT OF HALIFAX HARBOUR FOR A CRUISE OF NOVA SCOTIA’S SCENIC SOUTH SHORE BY PAT NELDER In the second week of July, Halifax Harbour will host the start of the 7th Route Halifax-Saint Pierre offshore yacht race. The racing boats will turn left as they reach the mouth of the harbour and head east for the French islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon. The race takes place every two years attracting yachts from Canada, United States and France, with sailors who enjoy the challenge presented by 350 miles of ocean sailing. Halifax Harbour is a great place for boats. Amongst the large container ship piers, the Navy piers and ships, the offshore rigs and supply ships, Canadian Coast Guard ships, the Irving Shipyard, cruise ships, the historical waterfront with historical ships, under the bridges and
between the ferries are facilities for recreational boats. Yacht Clubs and marinas in Bedford Basin, Dartmouth, Shearwater and Halifax cater to residents and visiting boats, host regattas and provide learn-to-sail programs. Waterfront Development offers free daily public docking during the summer to registered boaters on the waterfront in Halifax, Dartmouth and Bedford and can provide overnight docking. Their docks in Halifax are often filled with visiting international super yachts enjoying all the city has to offer. Leaving the harbour and turning right or going west, Chebucto Head forms the most easterly point on the Chebucto Peninsula. It’s used to define the geographic
Historic Lunenburg is a UNESCO world heritage site and home to the Bluenose II
PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED BY WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT
COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 59
Halifax Harbour is busy with recreational and working boats
PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED BY WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT
south-western limit of Halifax Harbour, however, turning right here is hazardous. You must have up to date navigation equipment and charts and know how to use them. There are numerous coves and fishing harbours on the way to St. Margaret’s Bay, and hazardous shoals at sea are marked and guarded by the beautiful Sambro Island lighthouse. St. Margaret’s Bay opens south directly onto the Atlantic, its eastern shore with Peggy’s Cove and lighthouse is formed by the Chebucto Peninsula and its western shore by the Aspotogan Peninsula. St. Margaret Sailing Club is located in French Village on the eastern side of St. Margaret’s Bay as is Shining Waters a full service marina located closer to the head of the Bay. Each summer the sailing club hosts the Bay Wind Regatta for dinghies and The St. Margaret’s Annual Keelboat Regatta. On the western side is the community of Hubbards It’s home to the Hubbards Community Waterfront Association which has moorings and some marina berths, the dinghy sailing Hubbards Sailing Club and the Shore Club, home of the “Original Nova Scotian Lobster Supper”. On the other side of the Aspotogan Peninsula is the fishing port of Blandford, and the islands of Little Tancook and Big Tancook. This is the entrance to Mahone Bay with its seaside towns of Chester and Mahone Bay and of Oak Island. The tree-covered island is one of about 360 small islands in Mahone Bay and rises to a maximum of 11 metres (36 feet) above sea level. Located 200 metres (660 feet) from shore
and connected to the mainland by a modern causeway, the island is privately owned and is the subject of the History Channel reality TV series “The Curse of Oak Island” and best known as the site of various mysterious theories about possible buried treasure, which has resulted in centuries of digs and exploration. Many great anchorages, mooring fields, marinas, services and events make Mahone Bay a popular summertime destination for local and visiting boats. The Chester Yacht Club hosts Chester Race Week in August each year hosting more than 140 racing boats plus friends and spectators. The Town of Mahone Bay with a large mooring field and the Civic Marina is at the head of the Bay and the western side of Mahone Bay is the home of the Lunenburg Yacht Club in Prince’s Inlet. Second Peninsula is on the western side of the Bay, followed by Heckmans Island, First Peninsula and finally East Point Island A set of rocks known as the Hell’s Rackets set the tone of this part of the coast and exploring areas such as Stonehurst through some of the passes in this area can be amazing. West of East Point Island is the entrance to Lunenburg Bay the next large south facing Bay on the coast with the town of Blue Rocks on the eastern side and Lunenburg at the head of the Bay. The South Shore of Nova Scotia’s coast continues to more great destinations including the LaHave River, Brooklyn on the Mersey River, Port Mouton and Shelburne with beautiful scenery in between. AB
60 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE
Made in Newfoundland. Sold around the world!
powered by:
19’, 22’, 23’ & 26’ models available! Cuddy Cabins • Walk Thru’s • Center Consoles • Pilot House • Walk Around 4019 South River Rd., Antigonish, N.S. | Ph: 902-863-6633 | Fx: 902-863-1918 www.antigonishrentall.ca | www.seabreezeboats.ca | antirentall@eastlink.ca
COASTAL ATTRACTIONS & BOATING EVENTS Mahone Bay/Lunenburg
St. Margaret’s Bay
Chester Race Week August 10-13, 2016 www.chesteryachtclub.ca
SMAKR St. Margaret Sailing Club August 6-7, 2016 www.smsc.ca
Bluenose Championships July 30-31, 2016 www.chesteryachtclub.ca Schooner Race Week August 2016 www.nsschooner.ca Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic www.fisheriesmuseum.novascotia.ca
Halifax and Dartmouth Halifax International Boat Show February 18-21, 2016 Ark Regatta July 9-10, 2016 www.bbyc.ca Route Halifax-Saint Pierre Ocean Race July 10-14, 2016 routehalifaxsaintpierre.com Convoy Cup September 9-11, 2016 www.dyc.ns.ca Prince of Wales Regatta September 17, 2016 www.rnsys.com International Tuna Tournament September 2016 www.bluefintournament.ca
Yarmouth & Area Seafest July 13-25, 2016 Wedgeport Tuna Tournament and Festival www.wedgeporttuna.ca Yarmouth County Museum and Archives A museum noted for its fine paintings of ships. The archives include information on the Atlantic Canadian history of rum running. 902-742-5539 or www.yarmouthcountymuseum.ca
Nova Scotia Festivals and Events www.novascotia.com Sail Nova Scotia Keelboat and dinghy races and events around Nova Scotia for 2016 www.sailnovascotia.ca Small-mouth bass fishing in Nova Scotia For a list of associations, tournaments and schedules for 2016, visit www.rbans.ca Stan Rogers Folk Festival Canso, N.S. An annual tribute to folk-music icon, Stan Rogers July 1-3, 2016 www.stanfest.com
Maritime Museum of the Atlantic Explore the seafaring history of the Maritimes. Include an exhibit on the Titanic. 902-424-7490 www.maritimemuseum.novascotia.ca 62 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE
BOAT & MOTOR DEALERS, CHANDLERY & SERVICE Canmac Watercraft, Elmsdale, NS 902-883-7108
Iron Wind Marine, Bayside, NS 902-852-4199
Leonard C. Comeau Honda, Saulnierville, NS
SAILMAKERS Michele Stevens Sailloft, Second Penisula, NS 902-634-9338
North Sails Atlantic, Lunenburg, NS 902-634-3343
902-769-2425
Mahone Marine, Mahone Bay, NS
Chandlery
902-624-1800
The Binnacle, Halifax, NS
NewStar Marine & Scooter, Eastern Shore, NS
902-423-6464
902-488-3600
DSS Marine, Dartmouth, NS
New Wave Power Products, Waverley, NS
902-835-4848
902-860-2220
North Sails Atlantic Yacht Shop, Halifax, NS
Schooner Cove Marine, Boutiliers Point, NS
800-227-6263
902-826-2278
Seamasters Services Ltd, Dartmouth, NS 902-468-2029
Shining Waters Marine, Tanatallon, NS 902-826-3625
Sunset Marine, Porters Lake, NS
BOAT MANUFACTURERS Nova Scotia Boatbuilders Association, Halifax, NS 902-423-2378
Rosborough Boats, Halifax, NS
902-827-3353
902-450-3362
White Water Marine, Sackville, NS
INSURANCE
902-865-3788
YACHT BROKERS Ocean Yacht Sales, Halifax, NS 902-455-5565
Sunnybrook Yachts, Chester, NS
Fairway Insurance Services, NS 888-245-4741
MacDonald Chisolm Trask Insurance, NS 800-474-9111
Skippers Plan
902 275-2424
800-661-7211
DOCK BUILDERS
BOATER EDUCATION
Bear River Plastic Welding Inc, Bear River, NS
BoatSmart!
902-638-8264
877-792-3926
MARINE SERVICES
902-425-5450 Ext 312
Sail Nova Scotia
Conrad Marine Sales & Service, Dartmouth/ Mahone Bay, NS 902-484-3900
C-Tow Marine Assistance, Mahone Bay, NS 1-888-354-5554 Gold River Marina, Gold River, NS 902-275-1322
Rosborough Boats, Halifax, NS 902-450-3362
COASTAL NOVA SCOTIA: EASTERN SHORE & SOUTH SHORE | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 63
REGION NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR Map #
Dockage
Max Length
Draft
Power
Admiral’s Marina Harbour Grace www.hrgrace.ca/admiral.html | 709-596-0605
93
Y
U
10'
Y
Bay of Islands Yacht Club Corner Brook www.bayofislandsyachtclub.com | 709-785-1188
87
by appointment
60’
8’
30 amp
Bonavista Harbour Authority Bonavista jermouland@hotmail.com | 709-468-1209
91
Y
75'
20'
30 amp
Clarenville Rotary Marina Clarenville | www.clarenville.net/marina.html 709-466-7937
90
Y
100'
30-40'
Y
Dock Marina, Trinity Trinity www.atlanticadventures.com | 709-781-2255
92
Y
140'
20'
Y
Fogo Island Marine Information Center Fogo Island Facebook | 709-627-3366
89
Y
75’
lowest tide at frontage
9’
30 amp 120 volt
Holyrood Marina/TerraNova YC Holyrood www.holyroodmarina.ca | 709-229-4348
95
Y
U
U
Y
Lewisporte Marina Complex Lewisporte www.lewisporteyachtclub.com | 709-535-3625
88
Y
60'
8'
30 – 50 amp
Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club Conception Bay www.rnyc.nf.ca | 709-834-5151
96
Y
60'
9'
30 amp
Veterans Quay Marina Bay Roberts bayroberts.com/marina.htm | 709-786-2075
94
Y
50'
8'
15, 20, 30 amp
MARINA
Y
64 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
Marina Listings
LEGEND: Y=Yes N=No W=Washrooms S=Showers L=Laundry U=Unknown
Launch Ramp
Fuel
Water & Ice
Pump Out
Facilities
Storage
Lat
Long
N
Y
N
Water
N
W/S/L
N
U
U
N
Y
arrangements can be made
Water
N
W/S/L
Y
48.57.49N
58.01.11W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water
N
W/S/L
N
48'39N
53.06w
N
Y
N
Water
N
W/S/L
no storage sheds, only boat storage
48'.95N
53'.57.7W
N
N
N
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
N
U
U
N
Not on site but in community
N
Y
N
W/S/L
N
49.36’36.02W
54.11’06.54W
N
N
Gas/Diesel
Water
N
W/S/L
Y
47'.23.21''N
53'.07.53''W
20
Y
Y
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
Y
49'.14.37.83N
55'.03.19.86''W
N
Y
Gas/Diesel
Water/Ice
N
W/S/L
(boat storage)
47.31’19”
52.58’8”
N
Y
N
Water/Ice
N
W/S
N
U
U
Moorings
Y
Y
NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 65
REGIONAL PROFILE
TEXT & PHOTOS BY TED LAURENTIUS Cruising north from our home base at the Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club in Conception Bay it just gets better and better. There are plenty of places within a day’s sail that can keep you entertained all summer, but the further north you go, the better it gets. This applies to scenery and the chances of better weather, too, and begins with Trinity Bay, the next bay north. Within a six-hour sail is a convenient pit stop of Bay de Verde. It is a working harbour and though well protected, it has all the sights and smells of a vibrant fishing community. Once you leave Conception Bay and head through Baccalieu Tickle into Trinity Bay the chances of seeing humpback whales feeding are exceedingly good. This tickle, 1.6 kilometres wide and eight kilometres long, was notorious 25 years ago for presenting an obstacle course as you dodged cod traps and gill nets. When the inshore fishery collapsed in the early ‘90s the need to go through in clear conditions and daylight were greatly reduced. There are plenty of puffins to keep you wondering how it’s possible for these comical little birds to defy all the aeronautical laws of flight. Trinity Bay presents itself as rather open as you enter. But on its western shores are some very protected coves and islands, which were vibrant communities 60 years ago. It’s easy to spend several weeks exploring. An easy target lies 25 miles across the bay and the historic town of Trinity is a must. As you enter, the harbour opens up into several protected arms and Dock Marina will be obvious. Here you can tie to a large wharf or to some newly installed floating docks. There are water and
fuel available as well as a fine restaurant and gift shop. The community has become very popular with tourists because of the rich heritage and theatre productions during the summer. A couple of hours sail further up the bay is where the real treasures lie with the resettled communities. These include Ireland’s Eye, Traytown Harbour, and Pope’s Harbour to name only a few before heading into Random Sound and closer contact with civilization if needed. Petley and Britania are two communities on the east side of Random Island that provide convenient spots. A day’s sail up the west side of the island will put you in the relatively large
66 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
Sailing for seasons in Newfoundland and Labrador
Morning in Bay de Verde
community of Clarenville where most things for a cruiser are available and a friendly marina awaits you. When the urge strikes to keep going north, Bonavista Bay beckons with many more resettled communities and islands where a full summer is nowhere enough time to see it all. As you round Cape Bonavista you are virtually guaranteed humpbacks will greet you. The Town of Bonavista is literally around the corner and again you are treated to a pleasant spot where crew could be picked up and amenities provided. This town, along with Queen Elizabeth II, welcomed the arrival of a
replica of John Cabot’s ship Matthew in 1997 to mark the 500th anniversary of Newfoundland’s discovery. An entire article would be needed to describe all that you can see, but some of the highlights include Smokey Hole, Salvage, Braggs Island, Glovertown, Silver Fox Island, Sydney Cove, and the last port, Greenspond, before the next cape. The Cruising Club of America publication contains all these and many more of my favourites. Cape Freels is the next turning point as you roll around from Bonavista Bay into Notre Dame Bay. Well, now you have arrived into the largest of the four bays north of St. John’s, and here you
NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 67
Fair Island, Bonavista Bay
can truly get lost for several summers. In fact, it even has its own cruising guide published by a local and knowledgeable sailor. Such treats will include more whales and usually magnificent icebergs in the earlier part of the summer. The town of Lewisporte has a marina where many out-of-province sailors winter or get more provisions. Long indrafts and smaller bays within the bay are full of islands and countless anchorages. Most are protected and places like
Exploits Island were the habitat of the Beothic First Nations. The large island of Fogo sits on the eastern art of the bay and has inviting place names such as Seldom Come By, Fogo and Tilting, Joe Batt’s Arm. You will pass Brimstone Head, one of the four corners of the world as described by the Flat Earth Society. Don’t take my word for it, come and see for yourself. It is a bit of a slog to get here, but you will have enough to keep you busy for several seasons. I have been sailing the waters for just about 40 years and I have only scratched the surface. AB
Bragg’s Island Fox at Bragg’s Harbour
68 | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
COASTAL ATTRACTIONS & BOATING EVENTS Fogo Island Punt Race July 16, 2016 www.fogoislandregatta.com
Royal St. John’s Regatta, St. John’s, NL Celebrating its 198th year, this regatta is the oldest organized sporting event in North America. August 3, 2016 www.stjohnsregatta.org
BMW Race Week August 17-20, 2016 www.rnyc.nf.ca
Gros Morne National Park A world heritage site located on the west coast of Newfoundland and the second largest national park in Atlantic Canada. www.grosmorne.com
Signal Hill National Historic Site, St. John’s, NL The site was the reception point of the first transatlantic wireless signal by Guglielmo Marconi. www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/nl/signalhill/index.aspx
Festivals and Events Newfoundland and Labrador www.newfoundlandlabrador.com
ONLINE RESOURCE www.activecaptain.com BOATER EDUCATION BoatSmart! 877-792-3926
ON-LINE CRUISING GUIDE RECREATIONAL FISHING REGULATIONS It’s best to know the law when it comes to fishing in Canada: Managing Canada’s recreational fisheries is a shared responsibility between federal, provincial and territorial governments. Roles vary between different provinces and territories. Generally, the federal government is responsible for all marine species with the exception of anadromous and catadromous species in inland waters in some regions; and provincial and territorial governments are responsible for freshwater species. Unless otherwise noted, the websites on the site below are managed by provincial and territorial governments. Consult anglers’ guides and information on fishing licenses and other regulations.
www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/ peches-fisheries/rec/regs-eng.htm
Dobson Yacht Club maintains a cruising guide for Cape Breton at cruising-cape-breton.info LINKS TO CRUISING GUIDES IN PRINT Puffin Press publishes guides for the Nova Scotia Coast, Newfoundland and Labrador. Updates can be found here: www.puffin-press.com VISIT A MARINE BOOK STORE FOR THESE BOOKS A Cruising Guide to the Canadian Maritimes (Yacht Pilot) A Cruising Guide to the Down East Circle Route (Yacht Pilot) A Cruising Guide to the Bay of Fundy and the St. John River (Nicolas Tracy) Cruising Guide Notre Dame Bay, Newfoundland Harbours and Marinas of Prince Edward Island
NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR | Atlantic Boating Guide 2016 | 69
Bras d’Or Lake
Sydney Harbour
EXPLORE CANADA’S LARGEST IN-LAND SEA THE BRAS D’OR LAKE
WORK, WORK, WORK.
After 23 years of steering Atlantic Canada’s largest marine chandlery, The Binnacle Boys know a thing or two about business. Take for instance, product testing – which involves a summer’s eve, a 36’ sloop and a 43 qt. portable fridge. Then there’s research and development – or as we call it – “Chester Race Week”, where our wives rely on portable GPS to ‘research’ our ‘development’. So thank heaven for binnacle.com – the place where dinghy sailors, pleasure boaters, cruisers and dreamers find what they’re looking for, when we’re out doing business. Or drop by our 8500 sq. ft. Halifax store for an impressive array of electronics, charts, rigging, clothing, safety equipment, shoes, varnish, and more. Either way, you’ll always get free shipping on most items over $99. (That’s our shipping department pictured above – making another speedy delivery to a satisfied customer.)
binnacle.com
15 PURCELL’S COVE ROAD HALIFAX NOVA SCOTIA 1.800.665.6464