British Columbia is more relaxed than the Mediterranean and Caribbean, even during August’s peak. Cruising and chartering in British Columbia offers a hands-on experience with nature. Escape your chaotic schedule, and awaken your inner explorer. It has a host of small islands and ports off the beaten track to explore. Don’t be surprised if yours is the only yacht on the horizon. Our media partner, Yachting Pages, spoke to Capt. Mike Johnson and the charter team at Exclusive Charter Service to find out more about visiting this region.
Sailing regulations
British Columbia has strict guidelines set out by the Canadian Coast Guard. Foreign private yachts require the use of a Canadian pilot if over 500 gross tons. This was changed from 350 gross tons in January 2010. British Columbia has different regulations for charter yachts. If there’s an advertised itinerary, and paying passengers are aboard, you must obtain a pilot if over 350 gross tons. Furthermore, charter yachts beginning and ending their voyage in Canada must be Canadian registered. For this reason, the majority of British Columbia charters begin and end in Alaska, due to lower tax rates. With high tax rates up to 50%, purely British Columbian charters are rare in comparison to other regions. In the Caribbean, for example, charges can be as low as 4%.
Superyacht berthing
Despite the vast size of the region, few docks in British Columbia can handle larger superyachts. Therefore, it’s imperative to book your mooring in advance. One of the superyacht marinas is Coal Harbour Marina in Vancouver, with slips for yachts to 328 feet (100 meters) and first-rate facilities for visiting yachts and crew. Other superyacht marinas include Vancouver’s Mosquito Creek Marina (max. 158 feet, or 48 meters) and Sidney’s Van Isle Marina (max. 197 feet, or 60 meters).
Most of the marinas throughout British Columbia are capable of accommodating the “average” sized megayachts of 98 to 131 feet (30 to 40 meters). Some smaller ports rely on outside overnight anchorages, requiring a short tender ride into the port itself. However, there are many beautiful coves and islands where a superyacht can anchor overnight.
Sailing conditions
British Colombia presents no real cruising difficulties, as long as captains and crew are familiar with the tides, water depths, and dockages.
Being a large province, British Columbia has a number of climatic zones. Along the coast, temperatures range from 72 to 83°F (22 to 28°C). Inland, especially south, temperatures often exceed 86°F (30°C). Fog can be common in early morning, which could make navigation temporarily difficult. Tides run from two feet at low tide to 15 feet at high tide.
British Columbia highlights
The Sunshine Coast. This is an apt nickname for the southern mainland coast of British Columbia. It starts just northwest of Vancouver. Some people extend the definition to include the Powell River area. Regardless, there’s wonderful nature to see.
You can spot seals and Orca whales while cruising the Strait of Georgia. Then there’s the beautiful “bucket list” destination of Desolation Sound. It’s home to a number of serene coves and offers activities for the whole family. Fish for salmon and red snapper, or go crabbing and gather oysters in the shallows. Anchor your yacht and take a swim in the warm water before watching the sun set over the snow-covered mountain peaks.
Experience the mysterious Chatterbox Falls, where wisps of fog often shroud the sheer granite walls of this secluded, fjord-like area. Enjoy scuba diving while eagles soar the sky and bears forage the shorelines. Relax at the local floating restaurant, or spend the day at one of four nearby golf courses.
Vancouver. Named one of 2014’s top 10 islands by Travel + Leisure magazine, Vancouver (pictured above) is roughly the size of The Netherlands and home to one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems. They vary from rainforests and rivers to meadows and beaches. Vancouver Island is prized as one of the world’s finest locations for fishing, whale watching, and bird watching.
Vancouver’s mountains are renowned for their epic snowfalls. Take a private aerial tour over the magnificent glaciers beyond Vancouver and marvel at the pristine beauty. Alternately, dine at any of the restaurants, enjoying exquisite West Coast seafood, and enjoy the exciting Vancouver skyline.
Much of the island is protected parkland, and there are a host of activities to undertake. Adrenaline junkies will feel at home white-water rafting through the limestone canyons and surfing holes of Nimpkish River. More subdued guests can experience the heritage of Aboriginal culture, browse the works of local artisans, or enjoy a relaxed afternoon at one of the award-winning vineyards.
Northern British Columbia. With a wilderness larger than the size of California or Japan, Northern British Columbia is home to roaring rivers, green valleys, and rugged mountains. Admire the pristine surroundings, and enjoy the light summer evenings from your chair on deck.
Far from the madding crowd, adventurous guests can take a helicopter ride to one of the country’s peaceful slopes such as Hudson Bat Mountain. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling.
Leave a Reply