Panoramic view of Maple Bay and Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands are BC’s version of Washington’s San Juan Islands.  The San Juan Islands are the peaks of a sunken mountain range.  The Gulf Islands, for the most part, is a different geology, made of sandstone that has been folded and uplifted until it sticks out of the sea.  Together, the San Juan Islands and the Gulf Islands create a superb cruising area.

Like the San Juan Islands, the Gulf Islands are in the lee of mountains.  They receive a lot of summertime sun and little summertime rainfall.  Water is in short supply.  Boat washing is something that just isn’t done, at least on the islands themselves.

The Gulf Islands are blessed with dozens of anchorages, from one-boat notches to open bays that hold many boats.  Marine parks provide anchorage, mooring and docking possibilities, and facilities ashore.  Private marinas run the spectrum from rustic to deluxe, many with excellent dining on-site or nearby.

The largest town in the Gulf Islands proper is the Ganges on Saltspring Island.  If your definition of the islands expands to include Southern and eastern Vancouver island, then Victoria, Sidney, Ladysmith and Nanaimo are larger than the Ganges.

Visit Victoria International Marina to experience luxury at its best.  They will take care of all your needs from yacht repairs, provisioning and local excursions around Vancouver Island.

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.