Our recent 9-night cruise with the Bellingham Yacht Club through the Broughtons was nothing short of spectacular. This journey through some of British Columbia’s most stunning and remote waters offered a perfect blend of camaraderie, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a look at our route and the highlights from each stop along the way.

Blind Channel

Our adventure began at Blind Channel, a serene and welcoming marina that serves as a gateway to the Broughtons. The currents along Johnstone Strait provided a dynamic start to our journey, with our speed fluctuating between 6 to 12 mph, even without adjusting the engine. Arriving at Blind Channel, we were greeted with the promise of schnitzel for dinner—a meal that’s well worth the trip. This night set the tone for the rest of our adventure, combining delicious food with great company.

Lagoon Cove

From Blind Channel, we headed to Lagoon Cove, a marina known for its rustic charm and friendly atmosphere. Traveling with a flotilla of five boats, we spotted a humpback whale and several Pacific white-sided dolphins along the way, making the journey just as exciting as the destination. Upon arrival, we enjoyed a potluck appetizer gathering, where the flavors were as diverse as the stories shared. The next morning, we pulled up our crab and shrimp traps, hoping for a good haul to kick off another day of exploration.

Echo Bay

Next, we spent two nights at Echo Bay Marina, a hidden gem on the north side of Gilford Island. Echo Bay’s vibrant community feel was enhanced by a surf-and-turf potluck dinner, where the entire yacht club group came together to share meals. The evening was made even more special by live music on the docks, performed by two boaters who met and decided to jam together. The mix of great food, music, and the camaraderie of fellow boaters made these two nights truly unforgettable.

Claydon Bay (Grappler Sound)

Our journey continued to Claydon Bay in Grappler Sound, where we swapped out some failing lights on our Bayliner 4788 and did some fishing—though we didn’t catch any keepers this time. Despite the rainy weather, the anchorage provided a peaceful retreat, and the beauty of the surrounding area made riding out the storm a worthwhile experience.

Turnbull Cove

Next, we made our way to Turnbull Cove, covering a short distance that allowed us to enjoy a leisurely morning. Marcia took the helm for most of the trip while I was on a conference call, showcasing her impressive boating skills. Once settled, we found ourselves in the company of four other yacht club boats and another Bayliner 4788—a common sight at almost every anchorage during our journey.

Sutherland Bay

Our journey took us through Drury Inlet and Sturt Narrows to Sutherland Bay, where the towering trees grew right down to the high tide line, creating a dramatic landscape. The lack of beaches at high tide gave the area an untouched, wild feel. As we arrived, we were lucky enough to spot two bears on the beach, a reminder of the remote and natural beauty of the Broughtons.

Sullivan Bay Marina

Sullivan Bay Marina was our next destination, and it was a welcome sight after the wet and chilly ride from Sutherland Bay. The marina offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, store, fuel dock, and even a seaplane airport. After docking, we indulged in a hot shower and shave, a small luxury that felt particularly satisfying after a day on the water. The marina’s location also provided excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, with bears seen just across the water from the docks.

Waddington Bay

Our final stop with the yacht club was Waddington Bay, a tranquil anchorage surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Broughton Islands. The day started foggy, but we navigated with confidence using charts, radar, AIS, and autopilot, eventually breaking through to clearer skies. Along the way, we marveled at the sight of three humpback whales and enjoyed the serene landscapes, from sea level up to the snow-capped mountains.

Reflections on the Journey

Spending 9 nights with the Bellingham Yacht Club on this cruise through the Broughtons was an experience I’ll treasure. Each stop along the route offered something unique, from the warm community atmosphere at Echo Bay to the wild, natural beauty of Sutherland Bay. The camaraderie of the yacht club members, the shared meals, and the breathtaking scenery made this journey one for the books. As we sailed through these waters, it was clear that the Broughtons are a special place—one that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Whether it was the thrill of spotting whales and bears, the joy of sharing a meal with fellow boaters, or simply the peace of being surrounded by such raw beauty, this cruise was a reminder of why we love boating in the Pacific Northwest. Until the next adventure, the memories of this trip will continue to bring a smile to my face.

Heading to Port McNeill: A Day for Fuel, Water, and Reprovisioning

As our incredible 9-night adventure with the Bellingham Yacht Club comes to a close, today marks the day we head to Port McNeill. This bustling port town is a crucial stop for any boater exploring the Broughtons, offering the chance to refuel, restock, and refresh before continuing on our journey.

Our plan for the day includes topping off our fuel tanks, refilling our water supply, and reprovisioning with fresh groceries and other essentials. After several days in remote anchorages, the convenience of Port McNeill’s services is a welcome change. We’ll also take the opportunity to dump our garbage, lightening the load and ensuring we leave no trace in these pristine waters.

Port McNeill is more than just a practical stop; it’s a chance to stretch our legs, explore the town, and enjoy a bit of land-based comfort after our time at sea. Whether it’s picking up a few local treats, chatting with fellow boaters at the dock, or simply enjoying a walk through town, this stop is an important part of the cruising experience.

After today’s visit, we’ll be ready to continue our journey for another 2 weeks, with our tanks full, our supplies replenished, and our spirits high from the memories we’ve made over the past nine nights. The Broughtons have left a lasting impression, and we’re excited to see where the next leg of our adventure will take us.