Boating in the Southern Gulf Islands

Named one of the world’s best coastal destinations by National Geographic Traveler, the Southern Gulf Islands are a paradise of fascinating shorelines and quiet coves. Whether sailing, motoring, or paddling, there’s endless island-hopping for every type of boat adventurer. Moor at a private marina or municipal dock and get around by bike, bus, or shuttle to see the islands’ best. Use this guide to see for yourself why it’s the most visited region on the BC coast. 

Salt Spring Island

Cruise into Ganges Harbour and dock at the Salt Spring Marina, Ganges Marina, or at one of the Harbour Authority docks. At the center of Salt Spring life, you’ll have easy access to groceries, restaurants, and shops. For more selection, use Country Grocer’s free courtesy shuttle to access the grocery and liquor store. To explore, catch a BC Transit bus from the Visitor Information Centre or rent e-bikes from Outspokin Bike Shop and use your land legs. For easy access to some of the island’s major sights, try the new Salt Spring Hop On Hop Off or schedule a personalized tour with Tour Salt Spring. Additional anchorage can be found in Booth Bay and Burgoyne Bay Park.

Galiano

Stay at Montague Harbour Marina or grab a mooring buoy in Montague Harbour Marine Park. From here, take the infamous “Pub Bus” to the Hummingbird Pub or rent a moped or e-bike from Galiano Boat & Moped Rentals and explore the island. There’s also plenty to explore by foot within the park, including a beautiful white sand beach. If visiting for the nationally-acclaimed Pilgrimme restaurant, make sure you have reservations well in advance.

Pender

Tie up at the municipal dock at Hope Bay and enjoy handcrafted Pender Chocolates as a snack. Spend the night at Port Browning Marina. A short 10-minute walk will take you to Driftwood Centre, where you’ll find most shops and services, including gas and groceries. For more seclusion, head to South Pender Island and dock at Bedwell Harbour at Poets Cove Resort. Additional anchorage is available in Grimmer Bay, Medicine Beach, Shark Cove, and Beaumont Park.

Saturna

Stay at the municipal Lyall Harbour Wharf where overnighters are common year round. Groceries, a pub, and fuel are available within a 20-minute walk. Schedule a trip with the Lions Shuttle to get around the island, but note that 48 hours’ notice is recommended. Alternatively, boat slips and mooring buoys are available for reservation at Sage Hayward Vineyards. Additional anchorage is available at Narvaez Bay, Winter Cove, Tumbo Island and Cabbage Island.

Mayne

Visit Mayne Island via the municipal dock at Miners Bay, with easy foot access to groceries and restaurants. For groups, the Mayne Island Community Bus can operate charter services to get around more of the island. The community dock in Horton Bay provides greater overnight protection. Additional anchorage can be found in Bennett Bay, Campbell Bay and at Dinner Bay.