Written by Gina Woods
Nanaimo is considered by many as the Gateway to a Sailor’s Paradise. Being centrally located between the sheltered archipelago of the Southern Gulf Islands and the northern more rugged islands dotting Vancouver Island’s eastern coastline, Nanaimo is a must-visit destination on any boater’s itinerary.
With a variety of anchorages to choose from, the Nanaimo area has the perfect place for you to either drop the hook or tie up for an overnight stay.
Here are the top six anchorages around Nanaimo!
1. Departure Bay
Drop anchor in Nanaimo’s prettiest anchorage just off the famous Departure Bay Beach. Here you will find views of the desirable Departure Bay neighbourhood, Jesse Island (private land), The Brandon Islands and Saysutshun Island while sheltered from the Strait of Georgia. This is a great anchorage to bring out your kayak or SUP to explore the shorelines of the small islands within the bay or to go ashore at Departure Bay Beach for a swim.
Need to Know: Protected from the North West with good holding, exposed to ferry wake, public washrooms available at Kinsmen Park, Drip Coffee Social available onshore.
2. Saysutshun
Saysutshun Island is only accessible via boat, so you won’t find any cars or roads here. What you will find is a rich history, beautiful walking trails and multiple beaches to explore. Choose between tying up to a mooring buoy in protected Mark Bay or tie up to the docks at the entrance to Saysuthshun Marine Provincial Park. Either way, make sure you go ashore to walk the network of trails and explore the history of the Snuneymuxw village sites.
Need to Know: An all-weather anchorage, nightly moorage fees apply, public washrooms and showers are available onshore. A seasonal concession sells coffee, ice cream, snacks and fish and chips beside the Pavilion Hall.
3. Downtown Harbour
Stay in the heart of the city at the Port of Nanaimo’s Inner Boat Basin. Boats under 50 feet can tie to the secured harbour docks and access the best that downtown Nanaimo has to offer. Walk from your boat along the Harbourfront Walkway and enjoy local cafes, shops and restaurants.
Need to Know: All-weather protection within the basin, 30 amp power available, public showers available along the Harbourfront Walkway, fresh water and fuel available at the Port of Nanaimo Petro-Canada fuel barge and a holding tank pump-out available at the Port of Nanaimo Eco-Barge
4. Silva Bay, Gabriola Island
Gabriola Island’s most well-loved and best-serviced bay has two marinas to choose from for your island getaway. Page’s Resort and Marina and Silva Bay Resort and Marina are both full-service marinas that will give you access to local art galleries and the seasonal Gabriola Farmers Market.
Need to Know: All weather protection, washrooms, showers, and laundry available at both marinas
5. Taylor Bay, Gabriola Island
This west-facing bay is just off of Gabriola Sands Provincial Park. The two sand beaches of the park form an isthmus that divide Taylor Bay from Pilot Bay (below). Taylor Bay is the perfect place to drop the anchor for perfect sunset views and easy access to the sandstone tide pools along the shore leading to the famous Malaspina Galleries.
Need to Know: Protected from the SE but open to winds from the NW. Pit toilets available on shore within the park.
6. Pilot Bay, Gabriola Island
Just across the isthmus from Taylor Bay is Pilot Bay. This bay faces east and is the perfect place to watch the sunrise over the North Shore mountains on the mainland. Pilot Bay also has a warm, shallow sandy beach that at low tide has all the feels of a tropical destination. Grab your SUP and paddle to shore for a swim!
Need to Know: Protected from winds, but exposed to swell that can wrap around the north point from the strait. Pit Toilets available onshore within the park.
Nanaimo and its surrounding areas are a sailor’s delight! Whether you are looking for breathtaking landscapes, marine adventures or that perfect mix of nature and urban amenities, Nanaimo has it all waiting to be explored by boat.
