Southern Route in 10 Days

The following is a suggested 10-day itinerary, heading south out of Comox. There are some navigational challenges, including strong tidal actions in narrow channels, two crossings of the Salish Sea and a general increase in marine traffic. A Strong defensive navigational attitude is required. Note on Madeira Park, several resorts in the harbour, all can take the vessel’s length, draft might limit some. Or they can anchor out and explore via dinghy the entire harbour. Note on Powell River should arrive early with notification to harbour master, limited dock space, alternative is the resort south of town that has its own marina, but the restaurant is terrible, cab ride into town optional.

Day 1

Leave Comox and travel either down the inside of Denman Island or transit the bar and take Lambert channel to arrive at Fords Cove. Reservations are required for the limited guest dock space. New restaurant at Ford’s cove and the opportunity to dinghy to Tribune Bay for sun and sand

Day 2

Leave Ford’s cove and transit the Salish Sea to arrive at False Bay on Lasqueti Island. Very sheltered and good anchorage. Dinghy over to the pub or general store at the government wharf.

Day 3

Leave False Bay and continue south to Nanaimo harbour. Take a mooring ball and relax on Newcastle Island and take in the Dinghy Dock pub for dinner and drinks.

Day 4

Leave Nanaimo and transit Dodd Narrows at slack tide, continue south to arrive at Telegraph harbour. There are several other anchoring possibilities in this area that are safe and secure.

Day 5

Leave Telegraph harbour and continue via Sansum Narrows to arrive Genoa Bay. Reservations are required. Alternate is to dock at or anchor off Cowichan Bay.

Day 6

Leave Genoa Bay, Arrive Ganges, try to schedule your trip to be in Ganges for Saturday morning market day, an event not to be missed. anchor or dock option.

Day 7

Leave Ganges and transit through either Active Pass or Porlier Pass (strong tidal currents and frequent Ferry traffic) and continue across the Salish Sea to arrive in Gibsons on the mainland coast.

Day 8

Leave Gibsons, arrive at Van Anda yacht club public dock. Take a walk around an incredibly quiet and peaceful village, great coffee and breakfast café located here.

Day 9

Leave Van Anda and arrive Henry Bay on Denman Island, overnight anchorage.

Day 10

It’s a short motor over to Comox Harbour to refuel your yacht. Call DSYC base and advise them of your time of arrival at the fuel dock and a skipper will meet you and take you back to your slip. You must be off the vessel by 0900hrs. Make sure all your personal gear is accounted for.

We hope you had a great time and look forward to your next adventure with Desolation Sound Yacht Charters.