Chapter 11 - Gulf Island North & Adjacent Vancouver Island East Coast

Pirate’s Cove Marine Park, on De Courcy Island, is a popular stop for boaters in the North Gulf Islands and it is common to find a colorful array of boats stern-tied to Park mooring rings. Gabriola Island, another North Gulf Island, also offers moorage possibilities with public floats in Degnen Bay and marinas in Silva Bay. Pages Resort Marina is a favorite and their onsite scooter and mountain bike rentals make for some fun times exploring the Island. Known as “Isle of the Arts” Gabriola Island boasts one of the highest concentration of artists in Canada. Art galleries and private studios are found all around the island. Some artists leave their work out at “self serve” kiosks. To purchase a piece, just leave a check or money and take your masterpiece home with you. West of Gabriola Island on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo offers moorage for vessels of all sizes. Nanaimo is the second largest city on Vancouver Island and has an outstanding collection of parks, businesses, lodging, boutiques and galleries, theatre attractions, and historic sites. It you have a sweet tooth; the city’s name may remind you of The Nanaimo Bar. For a fun activity, start at the Nanaimo Museum and take a self-guided walking tour of local cafes tasting various versions of this legendary confection. North of the city in Nanaimo Harbour, Newcastle Island Provincial Marine Park has mooring buoys, as well as a dock in Mark Bay.