Winter Cove Gulf Islands Anchorage

Winter Cove Gulf Islands. Winter Cove, between Samuel Island and Saturna Island, has an attractive park (part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve) on the Saturna Island side, and shallow anchorage.   We think the best anchorages are behind Winter Point, north of the cable line, or just off the National Park Reserve lands.   The charts show shallow water in the middle of the cove, but you can patrol around carefully with the depth sounder and find anchoring sites away from the preferred spots.  The mooring buoys in the southwest corner of the cove are private.  A public dinghy dock is on the eastern shore.  It has been reported that a sunken boat lies in the middle of Winter Cove.

Minx Reef partially blocks the Plumper Sound approach to Winter Cove.  Entering, we have found the best way to avoid the reef is to point the bow at the northern shore of Irish Bay, and run well past Winter Point before turning south into the cove.

The annual Canada Day (July 1) Saturna Island Lamb Barbecue at Winter Cove is a big event.  The cove is packed with boats; islanders shuttle visitors ashore and back.

The annual Saturna Lions Club Dog & Dogs Show is in early September.  Prizes for best dog and owner look-alike, best puppy, best tail-wagger and more.  Bribes encouraged.   Bring your dog!

For more information visit our partner site Waggoner Cruising Guide.   For all your yacht provisioning call our concierge desk at 778-432-0477.   If you’re looking for a superyacht marina we accept 65′ to 220′ vessels.  Phone or book online to reserve your slip or book the ultimate yacht Rendezvous.