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Superyacht Charter British Columbia

Private Yachting Cruises in British Columbia

British Columbia - grandiose yet friendly, majestic yet hospitable. From sophisticated Vancouver City to small seaside towns; from the towering forest covered mountains to the depth of the fjords, British Columbia is one to tick off the bucket list. Experience the breathtaking beauty all around you with the Pacific on one side and the Rocky mountains on the other onboard your crewed superyacht. Rent a crewed motor or sailing boat with YPI to have the best cruising possible in British Columbia. This is an example of an eight day yacht charter itinerary for British Columbia. Yacht charter itineraries are created individually for every client based around personal preferences and how you want to spend your time onboard your superyacht in North America.

Vancouver City

Discover vancouver.

Arrive in Vancouver and join your crewed superyacht in the port. Enjoy a welcome cocktail on board before heading out to explore this vibrant city. Go to Granville Market for some shopping; visit trendy Gastown, a national heritage site on the origins of the city. If you prefer to look forward rather than back, then the TELUS Science World should be of interest. Walk the famous seawall in Stanley Park or go for the adrenaline rush of nearby Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Climb the 32 floors to the Vancouver Lookout for spectacular views over the city. Keep exploring for dinner: Condé Nast has called this one of the best food cities in the world – everything from bao buns at a food truck to fine dining at The Hawksworth. Enjoy.

Deep Fjords and Ocean Sounds

The motor or sailing boat will set sail whilst you enjoy breakfast for the short cruise to Howe’s sound. Enjoy the stunning scenery as you sip your coffee – a taste of much more to come. This fjord is horseshoe shaped and begs to be explored. Take the kayaks for a workout; do some waterskiing or try your hand at some fishing – your chef will happily prepare your catch for lunch. Go to Bowen Island and hike up Mount Gardner or the take a gentle trek to Dormans point for perfect shots of Howe’s Sound. Browse shops and galleries in Snug Cove. Visit the town of Gibson at the mouth of the fjord or go to Keats Island for a gentle hike. Relax in the hot tub on board over cocktails and enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by your chef as the yacht gently swings at anchor off Gambier Island.

Secret Cove

Cyclists heaven.

Cruise up the Straits of Georgia from Howe Sound to Secret Cove. Start your day off with some pilates or yoga on deck your superyacht, surrounded by peace and nature. Take kayaks and explore the nooks and crannies of the Smugglers Cove Marine Provincial Park. Paddleboard across to South Thormanby Island. Then, head ashore to explore pretty beaches and hike up forested slopes. Wait for low tide in sheltered Buccaneers Bay to walk across the white sands to North Thormanby Island. Snorkel in the clear waters. Cyclists may prefer to take the Suncoaster trail – a 20 mile stretch along the coast or one of four other purpose-built cycle routes. Have a relaxing massage in the ocean breeze at the Rockwater Resort. Enjoy cocktail hour and another wonderful dinner on board with your friends.

Pender Harbour

Whale spotting.

Watch out for whale spouts as you cruise up the Georgia Straits. There are an estimated 85 orcas living in this stretch of water. Keep your eyes peeled and your cameras ready. Arrive at Pender Harbour in the centre of myriad coves, islets and hidden inlets as well as several lakes to explore. Hit the water in the kayaks or the paddleboards to take a tour of the area. Take a picnic to Garden Bay Lake for an afternoon’s fishing and walking. Art afficionados should not miss seeing the contemporary paintings of local artist Motoko, inspired by the grandeur and beauty of this area. Choose a piece to remind you of your motor or sailboat charter here. Golfers can play a quick 9 holes at Pender Harbour Golf Club, a beautiful forest course. Enjoy a wonderful evening at the Lagoon Restaurant at Painted Boat beginning with cocktails on the large deck followed by dinner surrounded by gorgeous views of Maroon Lake.

Royal Territory

Leave Pender Harbour for the next stage in your journey – today heading to the fabulous Princess Louisa Inlet. First enter through Jervis Inlet, a beautiful fjord with cliffs rising almost vertically out of the water slicing through the Coastal Mountain range. Record every moment of the majestic scenes surrounding you as the inlet becomes Princess Royal Reach, taking time to spot the petroglyphs on the cliff walls. Princess Royal then becomes Queens Reach before turning into the Princess Louisa Inlet. Soak up the beauty of the lush green rainforest rising up all around your superyacht. Film the famous Chatterbox Falls tumbling down at the end of the inlet - feel the spray from the falls. Dine on board this evening and sit around the firepit and exchange stories. Sample a Maple Syrup Whisky liqueur as an after dinner tipple.

Desolation Sound

Anything but desolate.

Wake up to more stunning scenery after an overnight sail to Desolation Sound. Desolation Sound is made up of hundreds of bays and coves to explore. Start at Mansons Landing on Cortes Island; swim from the beach or visit the Cortes Island Museum and Archives Society to learn the history of the Sound and personal stories of local tribes, pioneers, loggers and immigrants. Head further north through more gorgeous fjords to West Redonda Island. Take a selfie shot against the ubiquitous log boom at Teakerne Arm; hike up beside Cassell Falls to the warm lake of the same name for a picnic lunch. The superyacht will reposition to anchor in Tenebos Bay, a perfect spot to use as ‘base camp’. Take the trail leading over to Unwins Lake for a freshwater swim. Slide the kayaks into the water to explore surrounding islands such as Mink or Otter Island. Fish for your supper: your chef can turn your catch into the freshest sushi or carpaccio you have ever tasted – a fitting final feast. Sit in the hot tub and gaze at the night sky.

Campbell River

Salmon capital of the world.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast and snap your final shots as your superyacht takes you to Campbell River for the penultimate day. Visit a salmon hatchery at Quinsam River to learn about the life cycle of the fish and conservation measures. Head out of town to the Elk Falls Park. Get up close and personal – and rather damp - from a viewing platform right beside the roaring falls before walking across the swinging suspension bridge for great views into the canyon. Continue following the trail and feel dwarfed by sky high trees throughout the forest, enveloping you in nature. Back in town visit the Maritime Heritage Centre or go to the local art gallery to see work from artists all over Canada. Walk or cycle along the Rotary Sea Walk following the beachfront and winding through spectacular viewpoints along the route. Finish your trip on a high with dinner at Legends Dining Room with wonderful ocean views at the impressive Painter’s Lodge.

Farewell – For Now

After breakfast, have a last run ashore for any more souvenirs and gifts before you disembark your motor or sailboat and take a floatplane for the trip back to Vancouver for your onward journey. Soak up the scenery and imprint it on your memory until the next time.

BRITISH COLUMBIA YACHT CHARTER

Hop aboard your British Columbia yacht charter and take the expedition of a lifetime to gorgeous remote landscapes. From the finest fishing to panoramic mountain views, British Columbia is a paradise for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

From the comfort of the sundeck, let your mind drift away as you cruise the clear waters, or get your blood pumping with this area’s world-class kayaking. Go salmon fishing at Hakai Pass. Hike the winding trails through lush forests and stop to delight in the endless opportunities for viewing plunging waterfalls, unique rock formations, and the region’s iconic wildlife. The choice is yours.

Five-star service and complete luxury await you aboard your British Columbia yacht charter. Here, you and your group will create memories that last a lifetime.

YACHTS FOR CHARTER IN THIS AREA

• Explore Desolation Sound
• Go whale watching at Tidal Rapids
• Hike the West Coast Trail
• View grizzlies and black bears at Great Bear Rainforest
• Heli-hike British Columbia’s Mountains
• Fly to Burgess Shale
• Delight in Vancouver’s vibrant nightlife
• Visit the historic Haida Gwaii to watch artisans at work
• Watch the sunset on the Sunshine Coast
• Go sport fishing at Rivers Inlet

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GOLDEN HORIZON

162m | Brodogradevna Industrija Split | 2021

NO MATTER WHAT

26.82m | Sanlorenzo | 2022

30m | Ocean Alexander | 2016

31.4m | Broward | 1998

Summertime II

35.36m | Hatteras | 1997

Safari Quest

36.6m | Shear Yachts | 1992

39.62m | Westport | 2011

39.62m | Westport Yachts | 2007

39.62m | Westport | 2002

45.72m | Cheoy Lee | 2010

49.1m | Trinity Yachts | 2009

52.4m | Mie Zosen | 1980

QUINTA ESSENTIA

55m | Admiral | 2016

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Yacht Charter British Columbia - Yacht Rentals British Columbia

Top-rated yacht charters in british columbia - preselected yacht rentals:.

Sailing yacht Dufour 365 Grand Large for charter in Sidney

• Dufour 365 Grand Large [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]
• Yacht Insurance
• Final cleaning
• Damage waiver

Motorboat CHB 35 Trawler for charter in Powell River

• CHB 35 Trawler [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Motorboat Lowe 14 available for charter in Vancouver

• Lowe 14 [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Yacht Bavaria 50 Cruiser for rent in Sidney

• Bavaria 50 Cruiser [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Sailing yacht West Coast 57 for rent in Port Sidney Marina

• West Coast 57 [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Sailing yacht Dufour 385 Grand Large available for charter in Sidney

• Dufour 385 Grand Large [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Yacht Sun Odyssey 419 available for charter in Port Sidney Marina

• Sun Odyssey 419 [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Sailing boat Catalina 445 for hire in Port Sidney Marina

• Catalina 445 [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Motorboat Ocean Alexander 80 for rent in Ladner

• Ocean Alexander 80 [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]
• Barbeque Grill

Motor yacht Campion Toba available for charter in Granville Island Boatyard

• Campion Toba [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Motorboat Malibu Tyee Cuddy Cabin for rent in Vancouver

• Malibu Tyee Cuddy Cabin [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Motorboat Four Winns 200 SS for charter in Vancouver

• Four Winns 200 SS [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Yacht Grand Banks 36 Classic for rent in Sidney

• Grand Banks 36 Classic [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Motorboat Bayliner 185 Bowrider for charter in Port Moody

• Bayliner 185 Bowrider [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Motorboat Hourston Glasscraft 17 available for charter in Vancouver

• Hourston Glasscraft 17 [Yacht Price incl. Taxes]

Yacht Charters in British Columbia, Canada

Details for boat hire in british columbia.

With a fantastic sailing infrastructure in the south, scenic views and it's two largest cities located on the water, British Columbia is a water-based vacationers dream. In all six regions of British Columbia you can experience a boating vacation. Book online with Yachtico.com and you can hire a sailing boat or catamaran at a great price.

The city of Vancouver and Vancouver Island are the two major sailing hubs of British Columbia. Vancouver Island is home to stunning scenic views and waterlife, with a coastline many adore sailing. The city of Sidney located on this Island (not to be mistaken for the Australian city of Sydney) is one of the large marine and boating areas of British Columbia. Sidney is also the access point to the popular eco-tourist attraction of the Gulf Islands National park - where bird or whale watching, kayaking and scuba diving are all available activities.

Campbell River is also another popular destination in British Columbia. From here you can charter up the north west coast of Canada to discover the intricate beauty of the National Parks heading towards the Alaskan wildnerness. The sailing infrastructure to the north is less stable, as there are less marinas or mooring points in the reserves. Be sure to read or contact the local British Columbia water authorities before sailing here to ensure that the regions allow private boat access.

Check out the increasing selection of boats available with Yachtico.com and book online today.

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Comox base!

Sail from the our base in Comox - the closest charter base to Desolation Sound!

Reserve your vacation NOW!

View the program on our Ownership Programs page . Discuss the programs in a personal interview.

We can also assist you in the purchase of a Pre-owned yachts.

Our sailing school offers training for  both Sail and Power yachts.

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Monu-Hulls Jeanneau 440 Jeanneau 439 Beneteau 43 Beneteau 41 Beneteau 40 Jeanneau419 Jeanneau 379 Jeanneau 349 Power Yachts Meridian 411 Catamarans Leopard 45 Leopard 48 Leopard 50

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We offer GROUPE BENETEAU yachts for ownership in our charter fleet.

The range of yachts include "Beneteau" & "Jeanneau" models.

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Yacht charters vancouver island, boat charters vancouver island, " offering for sale into fleet " 2023.

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4 Staterooms

Fridge/Freezer

Electric Windlass

Dinghy & Outboard

FM Stereo, BT

Leopard 50 - 4 Cabin /Heads version

" not in charter " 2023, ownership program.

Cruising Chute

GPS with wifi

Genoa Furler

CD/FM Stereo & TV

Leopard 44            NOT IN CHARTER

"carib" 2012, for sale now    see listing.

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3 Staterooms

Fridge/Freezer & Ice

GPS, Radar & AIS WIFI

Bimini & Enclosure

Furnace with zone control

Leopard 45 - 4 Cabin /Heads version

"kats away" 2019.

4.1 Staterooms

Fully enclosed

Jeanneau 440  - 3 Cabin 2 Heads

" arletta " 2022.

Slab reef & Stackpack Main

Jeanneau 439  - 3 Cabin, 2 Head

"clara eve" 2016, beneteau 43, "up next" 2010.

Classic Main

Bow Thruster

TV & DVD

Beneteau 41

"chloe marina" 2014.

CD/FM Stereo & TV - Fusion system

Jeanneau 419  3 Cabin, 2 Head

" on hold ".

Full Batten Main

Full Batten

Bimini & Dodger

CD/AM/FM Stereo

Beneteau 40 - 3 Cabin 2 Heads

Rio dorado 2008.

Electric Winch

Autopilot & Radar

Jeanneau 379 2 Cabin

"mybo iii" 2015.

2 Staterooms

Fusion Sound Stereo

Jeanneau 349 3 Cabin

"isla" 2018.

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Fusion Stereo

Inverter - electronics only

Meridian 411  2 Cabin, 2 Head plus Salon coach

 "melissa ruth" 2006.

Ice maker plus wine cooler

GPS, Radar, AIS

Davit & Centre console Dinghy

Bow & Stern Thruster

Stern enclosure

Diesel Furnace

Satellite TV

Affordable Ownership

We have room in our fleet for the follow vessels

Leopard 43PC

3 cabin powerboat.

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For private or charter owners

Jeanneau yachts, yacht ownership, aventura powercat.

call us +1 250 656 7070

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7  Crewed Luxury Yachts for Charter in British Columbia

British Columbia Yacht Charters

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Liquidity 10

37m Platinum Marine Services Ltd.

from $77,821 p/w eek

35m Vosper Thornycroft

35m   1978/2007

from $89,500 p/w eek

Sensation 8

34m Westport Yachts

from $49,000 p/w eek

29m Ortona Navi

29m   1989/2004

27m Ocean Alexander

from $84,000 p/w eek

Serendipity 6

26m Nordhavn

26m   2008/2012

from $55,000 p/w eek

26m Ocean Alexander

26m   2012/2022

from $52,500 p/w eek

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Private charters from Salt Spring and Galiano Island sailing yacht charter

The art of calm

Your sailboat is the best way to experience the rich diversity of sea life around Salt Spring Island. We`ve been up close with seals and eagles and have had an orca swim beneath our boat in Montague Harbour. sailing yacht charter

Pristine Places

We sail you to the south coast's most treasured and serene boat-only paradises. Walker's Hook on Salt Spring Island, Wallace Island , and the Ballingall Islets are a few examples.

We'll pick your group up from the Fernwood dock on Salt Spring Island or Retreat Cove on Galiano Island. Click here for directions and info about Fernwood, and here for Retreat Cove.

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Bareboat chartering in British Columbia

A lot of people dream of owning their own cruising boat and sailing off on endless adventures. And the charm and beauty of the B.C. Coast, with its protected waterways and pristine harbours, only intensifies their dream.

Yet most cruising boats, including my own, are used only a small percentage of the time. Their owners’ involvement with jobs, family, and community activities seem to take priority over cruising hither and yon.

The Downside of Ownership

If you’re considering turning your dream into reality, be aware that owning a cruising boat requires commitment: financial, time, and emotional. In terms of expenses, buying your boat is only the beginning; then comes the cost of maintenance, moorage, insurance, operation, charts, and miscellaneous gizmos that all add up to big bucks.

Time-wise, once you own a cruising boat, be prepared to make regular visits to the marina, especially after storms, to ensure she is safe and sound. Routine and unexpected maintenance as well as regular cleaning also require considerable time commitments.

The emotional impact is most evident when things go wrong, which happens, according to Murphy, when you least expect it. On the positive side, if you can afford it and have the time, there is a certain amount of pride in boat ownership. Keeping your lady shipshape can be emotionally satisfying, even if you don’t use her as much as you originally intended.

The Charter Alternative

One less-expensive alternative to ownership is bareboat chartering, which allows you access to well-maintained yachts in various locations for periods of time compatible with your own schedule. Many seasoned boaters consider the experience of chartering more important than ownership.

Back in the early days of chartering, “bare boat” meant “no extras.” Such is not the case today as many charter boats come equipped with all the amenities of home, including microwaves, TV’s, air conditioning and ice makers, as well as all the latest gear such as furling mainsails, power winches, sonar and chart plotters. Typically, the more you pay, the more features your boat will have. Many charter companies have a two-tier system with newer boats in tier one and older boats in tier two, at lower rates.

One additional benefit of bareboat chartering is it affords the opportunity to test-drive various models, which will help you determine the type of boat you may want to buy when you’re ready to make the commitments associated with boat ownership.

Who Can Charter?

In terms of qualifications to bareboat, you will need basic training in seamanship and navigation as well as experience on a vessel of similar type and size. If the company has doubts about your ability, you may be required to take a captain along for the first day or two of your charter. Instead of being responsible for a yacht, however, you may wish to hire a captain, cook or both, allowing you to just kick back and relax on your “crewed” yacht charter. If you’re feeling a little under-qualified to charter on your own, boating courses and hands-on experience are available through individuals or “full service” charter companies.

You may be wondering if there is a difference between chartering and renting. “Not so much,” I would say. When chartering a boat, you are in effect “renting” it for a period of time as specified in the contract with the charter company. However, we usually think of renting smaller boats such as runabouts for a day and chartering larger boats such as yachts for a week or more. Most charter companies require that their yachts be chartered for a week or longer; however, you can in fact rent a yacht for a day, further blurring the distinction between renting and chartering. Perhaps, it really doesn’t matter whether you call it a rental or a charter; the important thing is to have a memorable experience on the water.

We’re fortunate here on the Coast to have a number of bareboat charter companies strategically located, allowing ready access to popular cruising grounds such as the Gulf or San Juan Islands, Sunshine Coast, Desolation Sound, and beyond. Most of these companies are members of the BC Bareboat Charter Operators Association ( www.bcmta.com/bcbca ), which requires high operational and ethical standards. By chartering through an Association member, you are assured the company has a valid business license, advertises truthfully, and will provide a prompt refund of your security deposit at the termination of your cruise according to your contract.

B.C. BAREBOAT CHARTER COMPANIES

BLUE PACIFIC YACHT CHARTERS Granville Island, Vancouver www.bluepacificcharters.com 604-682-2161 / 1-800-237-2392

This full-service company has been helping people create wonderful boating memories for more than 20 years. Blue Pacific staff take pride in providing friendly, personalized service to their bareboat customers, including choosing the right yacht and designing the perfect itinerary. They offer a Yacht Share program for bareboaters wishing to charter for longer periods of time – up to 64 days a year – at reduced rates. The company’s 35 vessels include both sail and power, 27 to 60′, for a wide range of budgets and boaters. Additions to their fleet this year include a new J-32 sailboat as well as several powerboats: a Mainship 40, a Silverton 45 and a Marquis 59.

COOPER BOATING Granville Island, Vancouver www.cooperboating.com 604-687-4110 / 1-888-999-6419

Canada’s largest full-service charter company is celebrating 25 years in business this year. Their bases in three separate locations – Vancouver, Powell River, and Sidney – give customers ready access to the most spectacular cruising areas on the coast. Cooper’s Cruising Club allows substantial savings for boaters who want to charter more than three weeks a year. The company’s 85 vessels include both sail and power, 28 to 60′. Additions to their fleet in 2008 include two new sailboats, a Dufour 36 and 38 as well as two powerboats, a new Coastal Craft 42 and a Westcoast 46.

DESOLATION SOUND YACHT CHARTERS Comox, Vancouver Island www.desolationsoundyachtcharters.com 250-339-4914 / 1-800-647-3815

Located in Comox on the doorstep of popular Desolation Sound, this full-service charter company is celebrating 30 years in business this year. Their base is just five minutes from the Comox airport and within walking distance of fine restaurants, grocery stores, and gift shops. The company’s 30 vessels include both sail and power, 25 to 54′. Additions to their fleet this year include two new Beneteaus 32 and 34, a Jeanneau 36 and a Dufour 38.

ISLAND CRUSING YACHT CHARTERS & SAILING SCHOOL Sidney, Vancouver Island www.islandcruising.com 250-656-7070 / 1-800-663-5311

Located in Sidney, close to the Gulf and San Juan Islands, this full-service company also operates a second base in Comox, convenient for its proximity to Desolation Sound. In business for 27 years, Island Cruising is proud to participate in the “Green Fleet Program” whereby only environmentally friendly products are used on their boats. The company’s 40 vessels include both sail and power ranging from 30 to 50′. For 2008, the company has added to their fleet a Mainship 40 powerboat and several sailboats: a Hanse 34, an Island Spirit 40 Catamaran and an Outbound 46 expedition-style boat ideally suited for extended cruising.

NANAIMO YACHT CHARTERS & SAILING SCHOOL Nanaimo, Vancouver Island www.nanaimoyachtcharters.com 250-754-8601 / 1-877-754-8601

With excellent ferry and air travel links to the mainland, Nanaimo Yacht Charters is located at the new Stones Marina building, a good jumping off point for cruising both the northern and southern Gulf Islands. “Sail with us” this full-service company says “we’re already there.” In business for 18 years, they offer 33 yachts both power and sail, from 27 to 50′. Additions to their fleet this year include three new Beneteau sailboats, a 42, 48, and 50 as well as a new 39′ Bayliner powerboat.

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6 Amazing Experiences While Chartering A Boat In Desolation Sound, Canada

• Activities and Interests
• British Columbia
• Cruises and Sailing
• Destinations
• Outdoor Activities
• Types of Travel

Desolation Sound is a Pacific Northwest hidden jewel for boaters. Located 95 miles north of Vancouver, British Columbia — past the Sunshine Coast and at the tip of the Strait of Georgia — the area’s deepwater coves and mountainous fjords are a magical backdrop for sailors and motorboaters as well as kayakers. Minimal tidal exchange in the sound contributes to exceptionally warm ocean waters and the numerous freshwater lakes ashore, some with tropical-like white sand and aqua-blue water, simply add to the attraction.

Some people have chosen to jet off on international vacations again, but our group of seven went searching for a bucket-list trip closer to home. We found it in one magical week aboard a 45-foot Bavaria yacht cruising Desolation Sound. Calling beautiful British Columbia home and with a past history of chartering sailboats, we were able to take advantage of a last-minute cancellation, scoring the premier yacht in the charter fleet for our week in early August. 

We chartered out of Comox on Vancouver Island with Desolation Sound Yacht Charters. While boats can be rented in Nanaimo or Vancouver, Comox was the closest departure point.

Savary Island, just short of the entrance to Desolation Sound, looks to have been plucked from the tropics rather than the wilderness of Canada. It is a popular afternoon anchorage for an ocean swim or row to the sandy shore. 

Whether you want to fulfill a high-seas fantasy at the helm of a sailboat or prefer to experience the magic of being at sea with a hired skipper, there are ways to access this ultimate cruising area without owning a boat — and amazing experiences to be had while you’re in the area.

1. The Charter Experience

Will it be a bareboat charter or hired skipper? The answer depends on your experience. Charter companies will require a resume of boating and sailing experience, including coastal navigation and marine radio certification. Be prepared to document proof of competence, complete a navigation quiz, and demonstrate your abilities during an on-the-water boat check-out prior to departure. Having crew with boating experience on board is preferred for yachts greater than 40 feet. You can also hire a certified skipper for the entire charter. Additional fees will apply. Most skippers are fun-loving and amicable with holiday groups. Note that you will need to accommodate for their sleeping arrangements.

2. Places To See

There are numerous must-see destinations in Desolation Sound. This is far from an exhaustive list, but it’s a great place to start.

Teakerne Arm

British explorer Captain George Vancouver first visited Teakerne Arm in 1792 while mapping the area. At the time, he was less than impressed with the remoteness of the area, which now seems laughable as people savor the seclusion and soaring peaks rising from deep fjords, particularly striking within Teakerne Arm. For those who enjoy hiking and swimming, no visit is complete without trekking to and swimming in Cassel Lake above the cliff, and then frolicking in the cascading waterfall below.

Prideaux Haven

Prideaux Haven is undoubtedly one of the most scenic anchorages in Desolation Sound. This well-protected harbor has enough arms and interconnecting coves and passageways to accommodate many boats and still offer space while presenting endless corners for kayaking or exploring by dinghy or SUP.

Manson’s Landing Marine Park And Hague Lake

The 117-acre marine park was established in 1973 to protect the magnificent sand beaches, including 4,000 feet of ocean beach facing Marina Island, 3,400 feet of beach facing the Lagoon, and 1,300 feet of freshwater beach at Hague Lake. Hague Lake’s glistening white sand beach and tropical aqua blue water seem bizarrely transplanted from the tropics.

Roscoe Bay And Black Lake

Roscoe Bay is restricted by tides, but visiting by dinghy or timing it as an overnight stay will give you access to Black Lake, and a short hike to bare rocks ideal for sunbathing or diving into the warm, fresh water.

Refuge Cove

Refuge Cove on Cortes Island is the major supply center for yachts visiting Desolation Sound. Fuel, water, and provisions make it a popular stop. The General Store is also a great place to secure a copy of The Curve of Time by M. Wylie Blanchet – the true story of a young widowed mother cruising coastal British Columbia with her five young children in a 25-foot sailboat during the summer of 1926. Reading the book as you explore the same waters is an immersive experience.

3. Other Desolation Sound Adventures

While good winds are likely to make sailing from Comox to Desolation Sound and back exciting, light winds within the Sound are likely, making fishing, prawning, kayaking, swimming, hiking, stand-up paddleboarding, whale watching, and oyster and mussel harvesting all viable activities. Provided you have secured a fishing license and there are no shellfish warnings, a dinner from the sea to reward your efforts is absolutely possible! So is whale watching. We spotted several orcas rounding Spitsbury Point as we approached Cortes Island.

The setting sun at anchor is a daily reward, but a full moon reflecting over the water at night is a bonus for those who plan their charter with the lunar cycle in mind.

4. Enjoy Your Crew

Half the fun of cruising is the company you share it with! Our crew was game for adventure and took theme nights seriously, allowing for Mexican, Hawaiian, Italian, Western, and Pirate Night to dictate not only food and drinks but also attire. We kicked it off with the pirate theme our first evening in Cortes Bay, complete with sabering several bottles of champagne!

5. Experiencing The Sound In Season

July and August offer the warmest, most stable weather but can be busy with summer holidays. September, a fringe alternative, offers quieter anchorages and lakes still warmed from the heat of the summer. Wildfires in British Columbia and Washington and the possibility of smoke are a consideration, particularly in August, so you’re best to check local conditions before departing. So far, summer 2023 has been nothing but beautiful blue skies in Desolation Sound!

6. Get Excited About Your Itinerary

There are many ways to enjoy Desolation Sound. This was our route:

• Day 1: Comox to Savary Island, anchor for swim and SUP, destination Cortes Bay
• Day 2: Cortes Bay, past Squirrel Cove to Teakern Arm + waterfall (Cassel Lake)
• Day 3: Teakern Arm to Squirrel Cove via Refuge Cove, destination Prideau Haven
• Day 4: Prideau Haven to Roscoe Bay (Black Lake), destination Tenedos Bay (Unwin Lake)
• Day 5: Tenedos Bay to Manson’s Landing (Hague Lake)
• Day 6: Manson’s Landing to Henry Bay (north end Denman Island), 30 miles return
• Day 7: Henry Bay and return to Comox Harbor, 1 hour in the morning

Pro Tips For Cruising Desolation Sound

Staying safe and comfortable.

All charter boats are equipped with PFDs (personal floatation devices). Being on the water, even in the hot summer, can be cool, as can mornings and evenings. It’s best to pack something warm. Bring rain gear with the hope of never needing it. Charters come with basic linens and towels, but having a few extras for fresh and saltwater swimming is nice.

Planning Guides And Charter Recommendation

The Desolation Sound cruising guide by Peter Vassilopoulos is a great resource for not only planning but also interpreting the history of the area. The Dreamspeaker Cruising Guide to Desolation Sound and the Discovery Islands is another respected resource. The Boaters Blue Pages and Marine Guide by Pacific Yachting are indispensable directories of marine services.

When it comes to picking an outfitter, we highly recommend Desolation Sound Yacht Charters out of Comox. All boats come with charts on board, and most newer yachts have electronic navigation, but if you want to mark up a chart and plot courses, you’re best to bring your own.

Eating And Drinking

When sailing, non-greasy food, made easy to eat on the go, is key. But nothing beats fresh oysters shucked off the back of the boat or a fresh catch of salmon. Even if you’re not an angler, you can buy direct from fishing boats in Comox Harbor prior to departure. Boats typically have portable barbecues, cooktops with smaller ovens, and more limited refrigeration, so consider that when meal planning.

Other Cruising Considerations

Bringing charging blocks for cell phones is a good back-up to the yachts charging system, especially since you will be on anchor without shore power most nights. A fishing license is a must if you plan to harvest from the sea. Learn more on this Fisheries and Oceans of Canada page .

Ginger tea or sea sickness bands are good things to have on hand for crew, and sunglasses, sunhat, and sunscreen are a must for the intense reflection off the water. Non-marking white-sole deck shoes will ensure you leave no trace, and frozen water in jugs to keep food cold turns into extra drinking water after it thaws rather than a sloppy mess from an ice block. Canned drinks are always better than bottles to avoid breakage.

For additional area inspiration, consider:

• 9 Fantastic Things To Do In Beautiful Kelowna, British Columbia
• The 9 Charming Towns In British Columbia I’ve Missed Visiting The Most
• My 7 Favorite Restaurants In Vancouver, British Columbia

Mary, of CarryOnQueen , is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in North Vancouver, Canada. A marketing speaker, author, and consultant by trade, but an adventure traveler and writer by passion, she pursues her love of story and travel tips in publications such as the Globe and Mail, Huffington Post, the Vancouver Sun, and The Province.

She has published numerous lifestyle pieces in national publications including Zoomer Magazine, Cottage Life, Outside Magazine, and Pacific Yachting .