Swimming Holes Accessible by Boat on Vancouver Island

If you are looking for boat-accessible swimming holes, Vancouver Island is the place to be. Filled with numerous rivers, lakes and beaches that are accessible only by boat, there are many places to anchor your boat to go for a safe and exhilarating swim.

Here’s a list of some of the best swimming spots around Vancouver Island that are safe and fun for the whole family and reachable in a day from Van Isle Marina.

Snake Island

This Nanaimo swimming spot located near Departure Bay is a favourite among locals and visitors who reach it by boat, kayak or canoe. The small, uninhabited island is renowned for its diving experiences, bird watching opportunities and the chance to get up-close and personal with some harbour seals. If you do choose to wade or paddle in the Snake Island waters, be on high alert for ferries and other boaters in this busy waterway.

Rugged Point Marine Park

Turn your swimming hole adventure into a camping trip at Rugged Point Marine Park. This park is located on the west coast of northern Vancouver Island at the southwest end of Kyuquot Channel. The park is packed with camping amenities and opportunities to enjoy other activities such as canoeing, fishing, and windsurfing. Take some time to explore the hiking trails too. Anchor your yacht in Rugged Cove or Dixie Cove both popular spots among local boaters thanks to their safe anchoring areas.

Broken Group Islands

Take a longer-haul boat trip to the Broken Group Islands on the west coast of Vancouver Island. In order to fully explore this cluster of stunning islands, drop your anchor and get into your kayaks. Swimming and snorkelling are a must when visiting the Broken Group Islands as you might even be able to see some fish.

Grant Bay

Skip the hike to Grant Bay and sail through it instead via the northwest coast of Vancouver Island. You’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, secluded white sandy beach to relax and swim at. This remote recreation area has day-use facilities and rustic campsites, or take the chance to try out some boat camping. 

Vargas Island Provincial Park

This boat-side swimming hole comes with the addition of great wildlife viewing and camping amenities at Vargas Island Provincial Park in Clayoquot Sound. Access the island by boat immediately northwest of Tofino and west of Meares Island on the west coast of Vancouver Island.

You’ll see sheltered channels and bays, an intertidal lagoon and ancient sand berms. If you’re lucky you might see grey whales frolicking nearby.

Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park

This provincial park and popular Vancouver Island swimming hole close to Cortes Island on the east coast is known as a boater’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy the calm waters and vistas while taking in a long stretch of shoreline. Moor in one of three anchorage points: Prideaux Haven, Tenedos Bay or Grace Harbour.

Freshwater lake swimming is available at Unwin Lake, a short 10-minute walk from Tenedos Bay. Desolation Sound is a popular spot, so expect to see other boaters, but rest assured there is plenty of room for everyone.

Lasqueti Island

Off the east coast of Vancouver Island is a scenic swimming hole in Lasqueti Island. This off-grid island has a population of 500 people and no public campgrounds, but the waters are ideal for cold water scuba diving. If you’re boating in the area and have your scuba license, take the plunge and discover some deep-sea magic.

Hot Springs Cove in Maquinna Provincial Park

Treat yourself to a geothermal swimming experience that’s just northwest of Tofino in Clayoquot Sound. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Hot Springs Cove is surrounded by the stunning scenery of Maquinna Provincial Park. You’ll have to anchor your boat and go for a 2km hike along sturdy boardwalks and wooden stairs through the rainforest to access the hot springs, but the journey is well worth it and the long soak in the naturally heated water is a great reward.

Rathtrevor Beach

Along the east coast lies one of the best swimming spots of Vancouver Island, Rathtrevor Beach. This 2km long sandy beach is a well-loved landmark and offers safe swimming for younger children thanks to shallow warm water and low tide.  A provincial campsite, plenty of picnic tables and educational activities for the whole family make this a great spot to explore. Since it sits along the Strait of Georgia, Rathtrevor Beach is an ideal place to drop anchor and enjoy a swim.

Kye Bay

Kye Bay, in Comox, offers a lot of adventure possibilities for boating families. During the summer months, the ocean water temperature is moderate and great for swimming. Shallow tidal pools filled with marine life and a superior texture of sand ideal for building sandcastles makes this a perfect place to drop anchor.  You can bring the whole family to this lovely bay, including your dog.

First Lake, Nanaimo

If you can tow your boat, consider taking the logging roads just south of Nanaimo to First Lake, a shallow freshwater lake with a publicly accessible boat launch. The lake, part of a chain of three lakes that link to the Nanaimo River, is the site of an old timber mill and there are a few private campsites dotted along the eastern shore.

While in the area, don’t miss the must-do local summer experience. Follow the stream of cars to one of the many Nanaimo River swimming holes which are beautifully clear and fresh on a hot summer’s day.

Make Your Next Boating Adventure Happen with a New Yacht from Van Isle Marina

Boat ownership can unlock many opportunities to explore and create new memories with family and friends.

Tap into your inner adventurer and find the ideal boat to take you on your next Vancouver Island swimming adventure at Van Isle Marina. Based in Sidney, BC we are ideally placed for a tour of the top Vancouver Island swimming holes. 

Our Yacht sales team will be glad to help you find the best boat for your needs and provide some tips for local boating trips too. Contact us today for more information about yachts currently for sale.

Where and How to Camp by Boat

Camping by boat might not be what comes to mind when you think about heading into the great outdoors. Usually, it involves planning when and where you want to go before packing everything into your car, not your boat. But, for boat owners, camping can take on a whole new dimension. There are two ways to go camping by boat:

• By Yacht. With a yacht, your opportunities for camping by boat are virtually endless. After all, you can cook and sleep in your boat and take a dinghy or kayak out for exploring. 
• By Canoe. Launching from a boat ramp and paddling your canoe through one of our many lakes and rivers can certainly be a way that you can go camping by boat. Everything you take must be able to fit into your canoe, however, so pack smart! 

Check the Weather Before Going Boat Camping

Inland boat campers may get a little soggy in poor weather, but those going camping by boat can face much more extreme weather. Check the forecast for the places you intend to visit, but make sure you check the marine weather too. This type of forecast gives you valuable information concerning wind speed, wave height, precipitation, storm watches, air temperatures, and more. Learning how to understand a marine weather forecast will help you plan a safe trip. 

Staying Safe

 

Camping by boat doesn’t just involve loading up and leaving. There are three critical things to consider when you are getting ready to go out on a boat:

• Is your craft safe to use?
• What do you do in case of an emergency?
• Can you navigate safely?

Take the time to ensure that your boat is safe and that you and your guests understand how to enjoy camping by boat safely. Transport Canada requires – by law – that the following items be present:

• One correctly fitted Personal Flotation Device/ Lifejacket for every passenger
• One buoyant heaving line at least 15m in length
• A manual propelling device or anchor with at least 15m of rope
• A selection of visual signalling devices
• A sound signalling device
• A fire extinguisher
• A bailing device or hand pump

If you are canoe camping, safety measures are a little more straightforward. Make sure you have the above items and that everybody knows what to do in an emergency. If you have a yacht, you will also need to think about a few extra things:

• Are your fuel and oil levels good?
• Are all the onboard batteries charged?
• Are all the lights working?
• Is the radio working?
• Do your guests know what to do if you are incapacitated?

Ready, Set, Let’s Go Boat Camping!

As with any trip, camping by boat requires a few last-minute preparations so that everything is well-planned and organized. The most basic preparations involve making sure you have enough clothing, bedding, food, water and first aid to cover the entire trip. In addition, you will need to make sure all your essential documents – such as licences and ID – are easily accessible. Finally, you will also need to consider the weather forecast for the entire span of your intended trip to determine potential safety issues.

If you are heading out on a yacht, there are a few things to prepare before you leave:

• Put your essential papers in a safe, accessible place
• Check your onboard machinery
• Check that your safety devices are not expired 
• Have all the maps and charts you will need for the trip 
• Calibrate your compass
• Check your anchor and ropes
• Check your engine
• Check for damage, including the electrical and sanitation systems
• Make sure someone you trust knows where you are going and when you expect to be back

The Top 3 Spots to Boat Camp Around Vancouver Island

Buttle Lake, Strathcona Park

Awe-inspiring Strathcona Park is almost at the center of Vancouver Island. It extends from midway between Parksville and Courtenay to just northwest of Campbell River. It is the oldest provincial park in British Columbia, having been incorporated in 1911. While you get to the Buttle Lake, Karst Creek and Ralph River campgrounds and boat ramps by vehicle, there are also campsites on the lake that are boat access only. Over 23 kilometres in length, Buttle Lake features these popular camping spots:

• Rainbow Island
• Mt Titus Marine Campsite
• Wolf River
• Phillips Creek

All campsites have pit toilets and several pads for tents. Along with fantastic boating opportunities for kayaks, canoes, and motorboats, Strathcona Park boasts some of the most scenic hiking trails on all of Vancouver Island. You can also enjoy rock climbing, fishing, swimming, waterskiing and abundant wildlife watching.

Broken Group Islands

Located between Ucluelet and Bamfield on Vancouver Island’s west coast, you will find Barkley Sound, home to the lush forests of the Broken Group Islands. While visitors are encouraged to explore and go camping by boat to their heart’s content, onshore camping can only be done at these designated areas:

• Hand Island
• Turret Island
• Gibraltar Island
• Willis Island
• Dodd Island
• Clarke Island
• Gilbert Island

Access to the Broken Group Islands is boat-only, but there is plenty to see and do onshore and offshore. You can explore tidal pools or take a leisurely paddle through the emerald-green waters that surround the islands. Be on the lookout for eagles, bears, whales, sea otters, and so much more!

Each designated camping area features solar composting toilets, but visitors must bring in their own water and take out any refuse and protect the local ecosystem. 

Rugged Point Marine Provincial Park

 

Located ¾ up the west coast of Vancouver Island, this boat-access-only park sports one of the most stunningly beautiful stretches of coastline on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Its protected beaches are quiet and serene, contrasting sharply with the wind-swept waves of the Pacific.

Rugged Point Marine Provincial Park is a haven for explorers and boat enthusiasts, but not many know that you can camp onshore there. The designated camping area is small, featuring only four tent platforms, but you are allowed to pitch your tent on the beaches if you wish.

Alternatively, you can spend your nights offshore and stretch your legs in the day-use area. There you will find a sheltered picnic area, a pit toilet and a food cache.

Rugged Point Marine Provincial is popular for canoeing and kayaking, but you can also fish, windsurf and see wildlife.

 

Do we have you thinking about going camping by boat? Our experienced crew will help set you on the right path. Contact Van Isle Marina today!

The Essential Safety Equipment you need for any Boating Trip

Boat distress flares are one of those things that no one really thinks about until they need it.

Being out on the water can be a wonderful way to spend a day, a week, or even a month. There is nothing quite like enjoying the sunshine while gliding through the water on your yacht, or perhaps dropping a line or a crab trap off the side of your fishing boat. 

But if you found yourself in an emergency situation, would you know how to attract attention using a visual distress signal such as a flare?

Chances are, you’ve got a pretty good idea about what you need to take with you on a boating trip in terms of food, drinks, clothing, equipment and so on, but do you also have the basic safety equipment that all boats are required to carry?

In this blog, we will discuss the types of boat distress flares available, how you should store them and what the rules are about using them, but first let’s look at the basic safety equipment you need to have on board.

Your Boating Safety Equipment Checklist

 

No matter the size of your boat, you should carry a boating emergency kit  on board in case of an emergency, which should include:

• A propelling device, in case of engine failure
• An anchor, with 15-meter rope, in case of engine failure
• A heaving line, for water rescues
• A fire extinguisher
• A bailer or hand pump, in case of flooding on board
• An emergency kit, including First Aid, boat documentation, communication tools, navigation tools, extra batteries, water, snacks, weather items, a knife, and a change of clothes.
• A selection of visual signalling devices, such as flares and waterproof flashlights
• A sound signalling device, such as horns or whistles.

Some of the above are simply a good idea to have on board your boat, but some – like distress flares – are required by law. Most importantly, carrying these items aboard can save you in the event of an emergency.

What are the Requirements for Boat Distress Flares in Canadian Waters?

 

Different countries have different rules about the use of distress flares on boats, but Canadian laws regarding distress flare requirements are as follows:

• While on an ocean or a body of water where it is possible to travel over 1 nautical mile from the shore, you are required to have flares on board.
• While on a body of water where it is not possible to travel over 1 nautical mile from shore, you are not required to have flares on board.
• Boats under 6 meters must have 3 distress signals (in addition to smoke signals).
• Boats between 6 and 9 meters require 6 distress signals (in addition to smoke signals).
• Boats between 9 and 12 meters require 12 distress signal flares (half of which should not be smoke signals).
• Boats over 12 meters require 12 distress signals (half of which should not be smoke signals).
• Distress signals must only be used in the event of an emergency. Any non-emergency use is illegal.

When you have the required equipment on your vessel, you can relax a little more, knowing that you’ve covered all your bases and planned for an emergency. 

What are the Different Types of Distress Flares?

 

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to the devices that could very well save your life one day. There are four main types of distress signals: rocket parachute flares (Type A), multi-star flares (Type B), handheld flares (Type C) and smoke signals (Type D). 

Boat Distress Signals Type A: Rocket Parachute Flares

As the name indicates, Type A distress signals have a rocket capable of launching the flare 300 meters into the air. Once the flare hits its maximum height, a parachute billows out and the flare burns red for 40 seconds while descending. This type of distress signal is viewable up to 20 nautical miles away. 

Boat Distress Signals Type B: Multi-Star Flares

Type B distress signals shoot off two or more red stars (like fireworks) at intervals of up to 15 seconds, with the stars burning for around 4 seconds. With a maximum height of 100 meters, Type B distress signals can be seen up to 12 nautical miles away.

Boat Distress Signals Type C: Handheld Flares

These handheld distress signals are easier to see from the air than from the surface of the water, assisting rescuers who are within a few nautical miles. These flares are shaped like a long tube and are designed to burn bright red while the operator waves them slowly back and forth.  

Boat Distress Signals Type D: Smoke Signals

Type D distress signals can be handheld or able to float on the water. The buoyant type will produce orange smoke for a minimum of 3 minutes on calm water, while the handheld variety produces smoke for a minimum of 1 minute. The important thing to remember about Type D distress signals is that they are only usable in clear daylight, since smoke signals rely on high-visibility weather conditions.

There are a few other distress signal types, including LED flares, but these are not approved by Transport Canada. Distress signals onboard Canadian vessels need to be picked from the four approved types listed above. 

Each type of distress signal has its own unique features, but one feature that they all share is that they are valid for 4 years after their manufacture date. Expired distress signals need to be disposed of promptly, according to the disposal instructions on the device itself.

How Should You Store Your Distress Flares Onboard?

The single most important thing about distress signal storage is that they need to be kept away from heat sources and flammable liquids or gases. Your distress signals should be kept upright in a waterproof container somewhere cool, dry, and easy to access. After all, an emergency device is useless if you can’t get to it quickly and easily.

It’s a good idea to paint the storage container with a bright colour and label it “Distress Signals” so that other people on the craft can easily identify the container.

Stay Safe and Enjoy the Trip!

Now that your boat is fully stocked with all the necessary safety equipment, be sure to go over their location and usage instructions with any passengers before setting off. 

At Van Isle Marina, our knowledgeable staff can help you with sourcing any safety equipment you require while you are moored with us. We offer long and short-term moorage options and a wide range of amenities for overnight guests including showers and a business centre. Contact us today to find out more or book a slip.

The Best Boat Accessible Beaches to Explore on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands

For those who are lucky to live or vacation here, we know that Vancouver Island beaches rank easily among the best in the world. 

At over 450km from the northern tip to the south, and surrounded by well over 220 smaller islands, Vancouver Island has a bit of everything for those seeking a quality beach-going experience. 

To help you plan your next big boating and beach trip, we’ve made a list of some of the best boat-accessible beaches on Vancouver Island and the surrounding Gulf Islands. Whatever your preferred beach activities, there is something for everyone.

Explore the Tropical White Sands at Grant Bay

 

On the northwest coast of Vancouver Island lies a white sand beach that could easily rival the best that Jamaica has to offer. 

Grant Bay is a haven for people who don’t mind going the extra mile to find a quiet, secluded bit of paradise fit for explorers, swimmers, sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts alike. The expansive beach is nestled among rocky shores, making for a setting that is as stunning to look at as the waters are inviting.

Although this beautiful beach can be accessed via logging roads and an easy 5 to 10-minute hike, getting there by water is much nicer.  

To get to Grant Bay by yacht, you can follow the west coast north from Tofino and moor at Winter Harbour. From there, a pleasant day trip by canoe or kayak will take you directly to the beach. For a more adventurous trip, launch at Port Hardy and sail west around Cape Scott on the northern tip of Vancouver Island.

Popular Miracle Beach Has Room for Everyone

 

Miracle Beach, located halfway between Courtenay and Campbell River on the east coast of Vancouver Island, is a popular vacation spot for both locals and visitors. Like many of the beaches on Vancouver Island, Miracle Beach can be accessed by road, by canoe or kayak, or you can sail up the east coast and anchor your larger boat offshore.

While the pebble beach itself is a popular spot, there is so much available space that you won’t be clamoring for room no matter what you choose to do. 

Whether you choose to go swimming or stand-up paddling, you’ll find the water is nice and calm in the summer months.

Relax at UNESCO Hot Springs Cove

While it’s not technically a beach, Hot Springs Cove offers an inviting and memorable experience that puts it easily shoulder-to-shoulder with the best of the Vancouver Island beaches on this list. 

Located in picturesque Maquinna Provincial Park, northwest of Tofino on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Hot Springs Cove is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It features natural geothermal springs, where you can soak in luxuriously warm waters against a backdrop of stunning scenery.

The best way to access Hot Springs Cove by yacht is to launch from Tofino. Once you get there, simply put down the anchor and enjoy a beautiful boardwalk path to the springs.

Bird and Sea Life Watching in Abundance at Sandy Island Marine Park

 

Before it became a park in 1966, Sandy Island Marine Park was used by the Canadian military for exercises. These days, Sandy Island Marine Park is a small but beautiful island park that is located 6 miles off the northern tip of Denman Island. It is accessible by boat during high tide, but avid sea floor explorers can walk to it along an exposed sandbar during low tide. 

Sandy Island offers ideal conditions for coastal birdwatching and an abundance of other activities, like swimming, fishing, canoeing, hiking trails and hunting for waterfowl (in season and with licenses and tags). 

While making your way to the island by yacht, you may be lucky to see loons, seals and even dolphins! 

As one of British Columbia’s many beautiful provincial parks, Sandy Island Marine Park is equipped with all the basic amenities. The star attraction, however, is a lovely sand beach for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking. 

Dionisio Point Provincial Park is Only Accessible by Boat

 

Located on the northern tip of Galiano Island, Dionisio Point Provincial Park offers rocky shores, beautiful sand beaches and stunning views. This secluded beach is only accessible by boat meaning there is always plenty of space for sunbathers, frisbee throwers and picnickers. 

Both Galiano Island and Dionisio Point are named for the Spanish explorer Captain Dionisio Alcala Galiano, who, in 1792, discovered the Gulf Islands. The park began its existence as a summer camping area for commercial fishermen coming from Vancouver Island and has since become one of the area’s hidden gems. 

As a Provincial Park, Dionisio Point is equipped with pit toilets and picnic tables, making your visit there that much more comfortable.

Wildlife is abundant, both on and offshore. While visiting, you might see black tailed deer, bald eagles, raccoons, loons, grebes, mergansers and much more. On your way to Dionisio Point, you may even come across orcas, dolphins or seals.

To access Dionisio Point Provincial Park, sail up the east coast or launch anywhere between Nanaimo or Duncan for a shorter trip. Mooring is by offshore anchor.

Surprising and Sandy Savary Island

Savary Island, situated in the middle of the Strait of Georgia, is essentially one big exposed sandbar. The island is surrounded with warm sandy beaches. The shallows and gradual slope of the sandbar around the island mean the beautiful turquoise water warms up nicely. 

Launch from Courtenay or Campbell River for an interesting sail through the Gulf Islands to this unusual sandy spot.

Enjoy Beachcombing at Blackberry Point

Blackberry Point, on Valdes Island, is widely considered to be one of the brightest gems in the Gulf Islands. With 300+ feet of shell and pebble beach, there is plenty of space for sunbathing and games. 

Explorers will have fun searching the beaches for interesting rocks and shells. If you’re arriving in a larger yacht, you’ll need to anchor offshore and paddle in. The easiest and most direct point of launch is from Blue Heron Park in Nanaimo, since it is almost directly across the water. 

Explore Vancouver Island Beaches in a New Yacht from Van Isle Marina

Any of the Vancouver Island beaches listed here will make a memorable day trip for you and your loved ones. We at Van Isle Marina suggest picking your favourite and planning to spend at least a day to thoroughly soak up the beauty and get the best experience possible.

If you’re looking for a new, or new to you, yacht for exploring Vancouver Island’s many beaches, check out our new and used boat listings. Contact our yacht sales team today, who will be pleased to get you set up for future beach adventures.