Chapter 19 - Northern British Columbia

Thousands of miles of island studded channels stretch northwest from Cape Caution into Southeast Alaska. Much of the region is remote wilderness and facilities tend to be more primitive and spaced further apart. Boaters lured by natural surroundings and quietude can spend spellbound days surrounded by the beauty of Roscoe Inlet, Kynoch Inlet and Gardener Canal. Rivers Inlet casts another sort of spell - we call it “Oncorhynchus Obsession” and it means to eat, drink, and sleep Salmon! In this land of world record Chinooks it is impossible not to get hooked (so to speak) on trying to reel in the next big one. Dawsons Landing General Store, in Rivers Inlet, is a welcoming sight with moorage, supplies and fuel.  Small settlements like Bella Coola, Shearwater, and Ocean Falls on the BC Ferry Route also offer these important services. Further north, off Douglas Channel, Kitimat Arm leads to the City of Kitimat and the mouth of the Kitimat River (known for world-class fly fishing).  Traveling on to the port city of Prince Rupert, boaters will find several harbours, including Cow Bay where historic buildings, trendy shops and boutiques, restaurants, and local excursion tour companies keep things bustling. Overlooking the Prince Rupert Harbour, the Museum of Northern BC is known for its exceptional collection of artifacts. Should the need arise, repair and maintenance services are available just 10 minutes away by car from downtown moorage. Across Hecate Strait, Haida Gwaii is a chain of islands with numerous narrow and intriguing passages. Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site includes historic village sites, archaeological sites, beautiful beaches, and abundant wildlife. Advance registration is required for anyone visiting between May 1 and September 30. The Gateway Marina to the Park Reserve is Sandspit Harbour and during the summer this busy marina fills up quickly so call ahead. Fuel, provisions, and marine supplies are available locally, as are mechanics and dockside assistance.  

Pin   icon for recommended marina or service.