Cruising BC: Scenic Anchorages You’ll Want to Return To

British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast and Gulf Islands offer some of the most underrated sailing anchorages on the Pacific Coast. While many cruising guides highlight dramatic destinations like the west coast of Vancouver Island or the glacier-fed inlets of Alaska, savvy boaters know there’s something special about these more sheltered local waters.

Though the cruising season is short, it’s a welcome contrast to the tropics. Flat water, protected coves, and mild temperatures make BC a sailor’s paradise—especially when tropical anchorages are rolling with Pacific swell.

This list of favourite BC anchorages is in no particular order—but all are worthy of a detour.

Gambier Island: Port Graves

Why Go: Calm waters, easy access from Vancouver, and peaceful nature trails.

Calm morning paddles.

Tucked inside Howe Sound, less than 20 nautical miles from Vancouver, Port Graves on Gambier Island is a favorite for weekend cruisers and weekday peace-seekers alike. Although it can get crowded on sunny Saturdays, it’s often blissfully quiet during the week. The island itself is only accessible by boat, lending it an off-grid charm.

There are four primary bays suitable for anchoring, but Port Graves stands out for its generous space and reliable holding in 15–30 feet of depth. The bay is well-sheltered from most wind directions except for occasional inflows. Even then, it’s a solid anchorage—holding firm through gusts up to 20 knots.

A large community dock makes dinghy access easy, and although the island lacks amenities, there are trails accessible via the private summer camp (which graciously allows public hiking access). In summer, the bay warms up just enough for a refreshing swim, and mornings are often perfect for paddleboarding across glassy water.

Marine wildlife is plentiful—expect visits from seals and the occasional whale or orca. The fishing is rumored to be excellent, though catching anything remains hit-or-miss.

Galiano Island: Montague Harbour & North Harbour

Why Go: Scenic sunsets, lots of anchoring options, and a quirky pub bus.

Sunsets

Galiano Island, located on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait of Georgia, is another favorite with BC sailors. It’s accessible by boat or floatplane and makes for a beautiful day sail from either Vancouver or the island.

Montague Harbour is large and offers a mix of anchoring options. Boaters can choose from government mooring buoys, a small dock, or open-water anchoring with good protection from most wind directions. Depths range from 13 to over 30 feet with solid holding.

Those looking for something quieter often drop the hook in North Harbour, a smaller bay that offers limited protection but rewards with stunning sunsets and more privacy. The tradeoff? A little more exposure to weather.

Onshore, Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park has trails and a shell beach popular at sunset. Dinghy docks are available in the main harbour, while North Harbour allows beach landings. Provisions, fuel, and a restaurant are available at the private marina.

But the real highlight? The Hummingbird Pub Bus. This cheerful, well-worn school bus picks up boaters from near the park or marina and shuttles them to a pub famous for its burgers and lively patio. Nearby, a small village offers additional shopping and supplies.

Sunsets here are a community event—whether enjoyed from your cockpit with a sundowner or from the beach alongside fellow cruisers.

Pender Island: Medicine Beach

Why Go: Excellent hiking, laid-back island life, and the best coffee on the coast.

Generally empty, always nice.

Pender Island has long been a staple for BC cruisers thanks to its marina, mooring field, and scenic anchorage at Medicine Beach. The island offers something for every type of boater—from luxurious marina amenities to rustic shoreline trails.

Poets Cove Marina is a full-service spot, complete with pool, hot tub, fuel dock, and shore power. It’s easy to access, though busy in peak season. While the marina café has mixed reviews, the facilities are convenient for those wanting a touch of comfort.

Beaumont Marine Park, just around the corner, provides a few mooring buoys and room for anchoring. Trails weave through the park and connect to other parts of the island. It’s a great base for hiking and exploring.

But the real gem is Medicine Beach. It offers a quieter anchorage with solid holding in 15–30 feet, a scenic shoreline, and access to some of the island’s best coffee. A short dinghy ride and stroll leads to Slow Coast Coffee, which serves dosas and high-quality espresso drinks—well worth the detour.

There’s also a short trail to a freshwater lake perfect for swimming. The overall vibe? Small-town charm with just the right touch of luxury.

Hornby Island: Tribune Bay

Why Go: White sand beaches, warm summer water, and a laid-back vibe.

Not allowed, but the dog loves it.

Tribune Bay, located on Hornby Island, is a dream destination for summer cruising. With expansive white sand beaches and clear turquoise water, it feels more like the Mediterranean than the Pacific Northwest.

Though it’s not the closest spot for many boaters, it’s well worth the journey. The anchorage is large, with depths ranging from 20 to 30 feet. Holding is reliable, though southerly winds can bring some uncomfortable chop.

A key challenge here is finding a dog-friendly landing. Tribune Bay’s main beach is in a provincial park where dogs are not permitted, but a nearby unofficial nudist beach often provides a more relaxed atmosphere—including tolerance for four-legged visitors.

From either landing spot, it’s an easy walk to the village center, which has restaurants, markets, and bakeries. Vorizo Cafe is a local favorite with dog-friendly seating and excellent breakfast burritos.

Tribune Bay is a bustling spot in summer, so expect company. Still, the expansive anchorage and wide beach make it a must-visit during the warmer months.

Mark Bay / Saysutshun Island (Newcastle Island)

Why Go: Urban convenience with island seclusion.

Hard to believe this is minutes from the city.

Anchored just off Nanaimo, Mark Bay offers the best of both worlds: proximity to the city for supplies and seclusion among nature. Saysutshun (formerly Newcastle Island) is a BC Marine Park filled with walking trails, beaches, and mooring buoys.

The anchorage offers good depths (15–30 feet) and a mix of mud and sand bottom. Holding is adequate but be aware of several derelict or sunken vessels in the area. Mooring buoys are available and often a safer option if you’re unsure.

Getting to shore is easy thanks to a dedicated dinghy dock. Once on land, there’s plenty to explore, including trails and interpretive signs detailing the island’s Snuneymuxw heritage.

Though Nanaimo isn’t typically on a cruiser’s “must-see” list, its proximity is a major bonus for provisioning. The town center is a short walk from the marina, with grocery stores, hardware shops, and restaurants. Trivia night at the Dinghy Dock Pub—accessible by dinghy, of course—is a local institution.

This anchorage is a solid choice for remote workers or boaters needing to stay connected while enjoying nature. It’s an excellent jumping-off point for exploring more remote Gulf Islands.

Final Thoughts

British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast and Gulf Islands are full of hidden gems that combine the best of nature, accessibility, and community. While they may lack the drama of Alaska’s fjords or Vancouver Island’s rugged coast, they make up for it with calm anchorages, scenic trails, cozy cafés, and unforgettable sunsets.

Whether you’re new to sailing or a seasoned Pacific Northwest cruiser, these BC destinations offer something for everyone. From tranquil mornings on the paddleboard to burger runs on a school bus, the stories written in these waters will stick with you long after the summer ends.

Let me know if you’d like this formatted for a WordPress blog or if you’d like a printable one-sheet with GPS coordinates and anchorage tips!