Canada British Columbia Itinerary

CHARTER CANADA

BRITISH COLUMBIA GUIDE

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Pristine cruising waters offer an escape from it all without going far

With its rugged natural beauty, fascinating local culture, and endless attractions to explore, it’s no wonder outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Canada’s westernmost province. Its location on the Pacific presents a magical cruising opportunity filled with stunning coastal landscapes, snow-covered mountains, and narrow fjords and inlets.

Just off the coast of the capital city of Vancouver, you’ll find a captivating expanse of islands and waterways perfectly suited for exploration by private yacht. One spot not to be missed is Desolation Sound at the far end of the Sunshine Coast, considered by boating aficionados to be one of the top cruising grounds in the world. The glistening waters here are calm and sheltered and offer numerous protected anchorages, views of extraordinary coastlines, and access to quaint villages to experience the local culture. The unmatched wilderness feel of this region will transport you to another world, without traveling very far at all.

British Columbia offers a uniquely-blended experience including natural parks, towering mountains, plunging waterfalls, and protected bays, alongside welcoming communities, artistic culture, and charming local flair. Whether you decide to hike, bike, fish (imagine the delight of halibut fresh out of the water prepared by your chef!), kayak, paddle, or cruise, the choice is yours on how to further explore this spectacular region.

Large charter yachts typically depart from either Victoria on Vancouver Island or from the city of Vancouver on the mainland, due to the vast distance between the two destinations. However, we’ve created an experience that includes both stunning ports, as well as the muchdesired destination of Desolation Sound, with the help of the local float planes that are conveniently available for transport. The itinerary below offers an amazing exploration of this spectacular region.

ADVENTURE TO BRITISH COLUMBIA

VICTORIA

Just a short hop from Vancouver after clearing customs brings you to the English-influenced town of Victoria, ranked as one of the world’s most beautiful small cities. Meet your yacht and crew in the picturesque Inner Harbour, and after settling on board, head into town for a stroll along the waterfront cafés and shops, possibly stopping for traditional high tea at the legendary Empress Hotel. Lively art displays and musical performances line the streets encircling the harbor, offering entertainment at every turn.

Taking a leisurely car ride to the beautiful Butchart Gardens is a fabulous way to experience the picturesque landscape, while your yacht cruises around to meet you. Known as Sidney-by-the-Sea, this small coastal sanctuary offers countless indoor and outdoor activities to suit any desire. From shopping at the Night Market or perusing Sidney’s own “Booktown” (home to no less than a dozen unique bookstores within a four-block radius) to kayaking, diving, or whale watching, there truly is something for everyone. An equally scenic option is to cruise around to the Pacific coast, taking in the rugged coastline and unparalleled beauty that only yacht travel can offer. Stopover at Sooke, Alberni Inlet with its fjord-like structures, and Tofino before continuing onward.

The cosmopolitan city of Vancouver is a phenomenon within itself. A bustling west coast seaport, it’s one of the few cities in the world where you can go from the beauty of the beach to the magnificence of the mountains in a mere 20 minutes – although it’s far more relaxing to take your time. The city is rich with culture, including endless options for fine dining and a thriving art, theatre, and music scene. However without question, the highlight of this destination is Desolation Sound, a must-see marine park you won’t want to miss.

DESOLATION SOUND

With long stretches of stunning shoreline, a maze of gorgeous islands, stunning bays and inlets, and peaceful secluded coves, Desolation Sound is considered by many boaters to be one of the top cruising grounds in the world. The warm waters of the Salish Sea are calm and sheltered with your choice of protected anchorages, and offer an idyllic setting for swimming, scuba diving, and kayaking. Start at Cortes Island, where Mansons Landing and Squirrel Cove offer beautiful anchorages. Venture ashore to the Cortes Island Museum and Archives Society for a historical overview of the Sound. Head northeast through towering fjords to Teakerne Arm on West Redonda Island, where you’ll be greeted by a cascading waterfall spilling into the saltwater lake. In Prideaux Haven, one of the most scenic anchorages in Desolation Sound, adventure-seekers can traverse the towering fjords or simply enjoy the awe-inspiring backdrop of rugged coastal mountains.

NANAIMO

Sit back and enjoy awe-inspiring views as your captain navigates a labyrinth of beautiful islands on the way to Nanaimo. With one of the longest shorelines in Canada and a forested mountain backdrop just outside downtown, this beautiful city projects out into the strait like a headland, affording waterfront on three sides and spectacular ocean views at every turn. Anchor at your choice of lovely spots, and head ashore to find natural wonders, musical festivals, and culinary delights.

SALT SPRING ISLAND

Surrounded by sheltered waterways of the Salish Sea, this Gulf Island offers countless opportunities to explore the adventurous outdoors on both land and sea. Ganges Harbour, a popular destination for boating enthusiasts from all over the Pacific Northwest, is home to a bustling seaside village, talented artists, and several scenic hiking trails. While on shore, dine at the beautiful Hasting’s House hotel, known for its local organic produce, lamb, and fish, all expertly prepared by Chef Marcel Kauer.

PENDRELL SOUND

Known for its gentle, warm waters that average 74 degrees Fahrenheit year round, Pendrell Sound is an oasis for swimming, lounging on rafts, scuba diving, and fishing, no matter the season. This protected anchorage is home to tranquil, magical surroundings, and offers the chance for wildlife sightings in a natural habitat. Peaceful seclusion at its finest.

Before moving on, take some time to admire the unspoiled wilderness and endless ocean vistas of Powell River. The short flight back to Vancouver will give an aerial view of the Pacific Northwest you’ve come to know and love.

POWELL RIVER

PRIDEAUX HAVEN

This national park is heralded as one of the most scenic anchorages in Desolation Sound, and it’s easy to see why. Its elongated bay is dotted with islands, inlets, and small coves, each one more glorious than the next. Adventure-seekers can traverse the towering fjords or simply enjoy the awe-inspiring backdrop of rugged coastal mountains.

SAVARY ISLAND

With brilliant white sand beaches, glistening swimming waters, and stunning ocean and mountain views, Savary Island offers a tropical getaway to rival any spot in the Caribbean. Sip a cocktail onboard and enjoy a fresh catch prepared by your chef as you absorb the sun and sea air.

LUND

The northernmost town on the Sunshine Coast, the seaside village of Lund is the epitome of small town vibes. It’s also just seven miles from Sarah Point, Canada’s longest hut-to-hut hiking trail, stretching through beautiful landscapes, coastal shorelines, creeks and lakes, old growth forests, and panoramic mountaintops. With several entrances and offshoots along its route, this scenic trail offers easy day hikes for those wanting to spend some time on land and experience the area’s breathtaking backcountry by foot.

BLISS LANDING

Aptly named, Bliss Landing is an idyllic hideaway of calm waters and tranquil shorelines, perfect for kayaking, paddle-boarding, waterskiing, and wakeboarding. The surround of lush greenery adds to the serene feel of this sanctuary.

APRIL POINT

As you cruise towards April Point on Quadra Island, consider stopping off at one of the gorgeous secluded coves along the way. You may spot orcas, dolphins, or sea lions in the waters, or bears on shore. Cape Mudge is world-renowned for salmon fishing, so plan to drop a line while passing through. If you’re lucky, your fresh catch of the day will be that evening’s dinner, expertly prepared on board by your chef. The exclusive April Point Resort & Spa is the perfect haven to indulge in a lavish spa treatment or just set out for a walk to take in the striking scenery.

PRINCESS LOUISA INLET

Continue to Jervis Inlet, the entrance to the magical Princess Louisa Inlet. A must-see destination, this fjord-like gorge is a majestic wonder, where mile-high cliffs rise sheer from the sea with stunning waterfalls cascading down into the placid waters. Glacier-fed Chatterbox Falls is the highlight of this sheltered inlet and is surrounded by a lush west coast rainforest unlike any other on the B.C. coast.

CAMPBELL RIVER

With the waters of Discovery Passage along the shoreline and majestic mountains as a backdrop, Campbell River is a breathtaking destination with a welcoming town. Stroll along Discovery Pier, visit the Maritime Heritage Centre, Campbell River Museum, or peruse the shops offering local art and native crafts. Bid your yacht and crew farewell, and board a float plane back to either Vancouver or Victoria.

COLUMBIA

OVERVIEW

TIME ZONE: Pacific Daylight Time CURRENCY: CANADIAN DOLLAR (CAD)

CLIMATE: In the winter Vancouver’s temperature is mild compared to the rest of Canada. In the summer it is the coolest, but also the sunniest. On the west coast of Vancouver Island, summer is even cooler.

May: 63° / 49° F

June: 67° / 54° F

July: 72° / 57° F

August: 72° / 57° F

September: 66° / 53° F