Learn more about our news and special events, both here at the marina or out and about on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.
If you’re ready to welcome a boat into the family, a small motor-yacht may be the perfect candidate for a range of different lifestyles. Of course a smaller yacht will be generally more cost-effective than a large one, but they’re also easier to handle, moor, and clean.
If you’ve recently become a member of the boating community, you’re probably interested in familiarizing yourself with the general anatomy of a boat. Even some long-time boat owners could use a brushing up of their terminology and knowledge.
Extra preparation and precaution needs to be accounted for, because everything becomes a bit more dangerous in the cold. In this article, we’re sharing some of our best tips for cool weather cruising.
The Pursuit Offshore 355 packs yacht-level luxury into a 35-foot boat, a clear indication of masterful design, intelligent space utilization, and comfort.
In this article, we’ll break down the complete winterization process for boat owners – everything from why it’s mandatory to procedures, products, tools and maintenance services you’ll need.
At Van Isle Marina, we’ve got all the facilities you’ll need to show your boat some love and get it ready for another winter season.
Dear Valued Marina Customers,
We are excited to announce several significant projects designed to enhance the quality and functionality of the marina. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to providing you with the best possible marina experience.
Starting in early September, we will commence a comprehensive refurbishment of the docks. This project will begin with A Dock, followed by B Dock, C Dock, and conclude with the wood-decked section of D Dock. Each dock will undergo a construction period of 3-4 weeks.
We will install new encapsulated Styrofoam floatation on the main docks, expanding on last year’s upgrades to the finger piers. These improvements will enhance stability and protect the environment. Additionally, the main docks will receive state-of-the-art fiberglass decking panels, selected for their durability, enhanced grip, and ability to allow sunlight to penetrate, benefiting marine life beneath the docks.
We will also upgrade all seven shore gangway ramps, replacing the perforated aluminum with the new fiberglass decking panels for a smoother surface and improved traction.
New pedestals will be installed on all docks, featuring dock lights, electrical outlets and water taps. These pedestals will be equipped with powder-coated aluminum enclosures for durability, LED lighting directed downward to minimize glare and enhance nighttime visibility, and a central digital metering system. The enclosed, angled design will shield electrical receptacles from weather and damage, providing a secure connection and ensuring long term reliability. The water taps will also be upgraded to easy-to-use stainless steel gate valves, mounted on the side of every new pedestal for improved access and functionality.
In addition to the dock upgrades, we are undertaking major improvements to the boat ramp and shoreline. We will overlay five new concrete precast panels to the boat ramp reducing the slope and ensuring a smooth, seamless transition for the self-propelled SeaLift. This enhancement will significantly improve our capacity to safely haul out larger power boats, up to 70 feet. Steel guide rails will be added to both sides of the ramp, and one cast-in-place panel will complete the transition between the existing ramp and the new panels.
Additionally, we will reinforce the shoreline along F Dock with riprap boulders to reduce erosion along the driveway. This work will take place during the fall, in conjunction with favorable tides to minimize siltation.
This significant investment in the marina infrastructure demonstrates our commitment to offering a first-class boating environment. We are confident that the new floatation systems, decking, electrical pedestals, and improvements to the boat ramp and shoreline will not only enhance safety and functionality but also contribute to a more enjoyable and sustainable marina experience.
While we are excited about the benefits these upgrades will provide, we acknowledge that there will be some temporary inconveniences. During the construction on your section of the dock, water services will be temporarily unavailable. However, other areas of the marina will remain accessible for filling water tanks or washing boats. Please note that the boat ramp will be closed during December and January for the ramp repairs.
Every effort will be made to minimize disruptions, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work diligently to complete these upgrades.
We look forward to sharing the enhanced facilities with you.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to our marina office.
Warm regards,
Greg Dickinson, BCom
President
VAN ISLE MARINA
In this article, we break down the difference between whales, porpoises and dolphins, and examine the different types of whales commonly found around Vancouver Island and the PNW.
Before you head out onto the water, it’s important to complete a short boat launch checklist prior to every launch. This ensures you have everything you need and your boat is ready for a day at sea. This pre-departure check is similar to what you’d do when checking over your car or truck before a short trip. This whole checklist should take no longer than 20 minutes if everything is ready to go from your last launch. 
If you’re trailering your boat back to the water, it’s a good idea to give the trailer itself a quick check
Before heading out, make sure all your important documents are on board
Up-to-date safety equipment is so important for fun and safety on the water. Safety inspections are always available with the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron (CPS-ECP)
Navigation equipment should be checked and properly calibrated before every single trip, even just a short trip
All mooring and anchoring equipment should be clean and easy to reach
The heart of your boat, you won’t get very far without the engine! If you notice any strange noises or smoke, contact a boat mechanic for assistance
Topped-up fluids will keep your steering system and engine working hard. Always check and top up your boat’s fluids
As boaters, we rely heavily on electrical equipment for a safe and comfortable experience. Take a few minutes to check each of the electrical components.
Always check to make sure the bilge is in good shape and the drain plug is secure.
Check all interior and exterior lights to make sure you’ll never be left in the dark
If you see any marks or chips, this could affect your propeller’s performance. If in doubt, talk to a pro about repair or replacement
The cabin is your home away from home, particularly on multi-day trips. Take a few minutes to check the lighting, appliances and water, to ensure a relaxing trip
At Van Isle Marina, we offer moorage with annual, monthly and guest options. Conveniently located in sunny Sidney, BC, moorage with us is just moments from countless destinations. With amenities like a storage locker, car parking, and a full-service marine fueling station and dock store, you’ll find everything you could need to outfit your boat and get ready for your trip. Come and see us, or request services/moorage information today.
If you’re planning a boat excursion to Vancouver Island in search of excellent hiking, beaches, and outdoor adventure, you’ve come to the right place. There is excellent hiking in every direction on southern Vancouver Island, it just depends on what you’re looking for and which part of the island you’d like to explore.