Chapter 17 - Johnstone Strait, Queen Charlotte Strait, & Adjacent Islands

Each year more and more boaters are lured northwestward, beyond Desolation Sound and Discovery Passage, to these waters of adventure and exploration. Here it is still possible to experience being the solitary boat anchored in a beautiful and secluded bay, and yet there are also a number of marinas that, despite their out-of-the-way locale, add more conveniences and services each year. In lower Johnstone Strait, inlets, bays and channels, including Blind Channel  offer peaceful anchorages and the chance to swim, fish, hike and paddle surround the Thurlow Islands. Port Harvey, on East Cracroft Island, is home to the Port Harvey Yacht Club (To join, buy a burgee and you are in the drawing to be the new commodore next year!) It's a fun place and the cini-buns are delicious!    Broughton Archipelago Marine Park, BC’s largest marine park is also a paddlers dream, drawing sea kayakers from around the world. To restock your cubbords and fuel up, visit Echo Bay where the K'waxwalawadi Echo Bay Marina and Lodge has you covered. On the Vancouver Island side of the Broughtons, Telegraph Cove Marina puts out the welcome mat for both boaters and RV’ers. This sheltered niche is a great spot for viewing passing killer whale pods. Nearby Alert Bay, on Coromont Island, is steeped in First Nations history, culture and art - and the The U’mista Cultural Centre showcases all three. Looking out over Broughton Strait, the town of Port McNeill is a convenient supply center and a great stop for adventure.  Caving, river rafting, heli-fishing and more - let the staff at North Island Marina help arrange your dream adventure tour.  Port Hardy, the largest community on the north end of Vancouver Island, has downtown moorage at The Quarterdeck Inn and Marina Resort, as well as the public wharf. Hiking is a popular pastime here and there is a trail to fit every skill level from easy waterfront strolls to challenging multi-day treks.  Had enough of the "Big City"?  Head east across Queen Charlotte Strait toward the mainland.  Midway up Drury Inlet, Jennis Bay Marina is nestled in a secluded bay with its own private lagoon.  A piece of paradise!

Pin   icon for recommended marina or service.