CANADIAN GULF ISLANDS
CANADIAN GULF ISLANDS
Immerse yourself in the idyllic scenery of British Columbia as you voyage to the untouched reaches of this natural paradise. Canada’s westernmost province boasts 27,200 kilometers of coastline, perfectly suited for exploration by private yacht. Enjoy glimpses of wildlife as you explore the peaceful waterways nestled along the shores.
With long stretches of stunning shoreline, a maze of gorgeous islands, stunning bays, inlets, and peaceful secluded coves, Desolation Sound is considered by many boaters to be one of the top cruising grounds in the world. The warm waters of the Salish Sea are calm and sheltered with your choice of protected anchorages, and offer an unspoiled setting for swimming, scuba diving, and kayaking. The glistening waters along the Sunshine Coast are calm and sheltered and offer numerous protected anchorages, views of extraordinary coastlines, and access to quaint villages to experience the local culture. The unmatched wilderness feel of the Canadian Gulf Islands will transport you to another world, without traveling very far at all.
Let your worries melt away as you savor the simplicity of life cruising past the snow-capped mountains. Travel further into the passages where you’ll be greeted by cascading waterfalls spilling into the serene waters. Adventure-seekers can traverse the towering fjords or simply enjoy the awe-inspiring backdrop of rugged coastal mountains. With plenty to explore and a truly unique yachting experience, British Columbia is the perfect area for all who wish to explore!
1. VICTORIA
2. BRENTWOOD BAY
3. MAPLE BAY
4. LADYSMITH
5. NANAIMO
6. GANGES
7. POET’S COVE
8. VICTORIA
VICTORIA
The iconic architecture of the Fairmont Empress in the background of the glimmering Victoria harbour will welcome you to a destination like no other. Watch the seaplanes take off as you walk towards the Parliament house. As you enjoy the lively capital city, get excited to meet your yacht ASCENTE for a yacht vacation of a lifetime. A short distance away is Brentwood, a small village home to the Brentwood Bay Resort. As you get comfortable onboard, take advantage of the mild climate throughout the Canadian Gulf Islands by lounging on the bow sun pads while underway.
BRENTWOOD BAY
Located on the Saanich Peninsula, just north of Victoria this small village is bustling with beautiful scenery and attractions. Home to the Butchart Gardens, a short car ride away, this can’t miss stop along your journey offers magnificent colors and aromas along with a tranquil ¬environment to indulge in afternoon tea. Walk down the docks of the Brentwood Bay Resort, and experience the pure joy of yachting, meeting fellow boaters along your stroll. Enjoy an enticing dinner featuring local favors prepared by the chef. Choose to enjoy in the main dining area or on the aft deck. Finish the evening cuddled up next to the firepit onboard.
MAPLE BAY
Walk along the smooth pebbled beaches surrounding the narrow inlet of Maple Bay. During your two-hour cruise onboard ASCENTE to this epic destination, you’ll pass between Salt Spring Island and Vancouver Island through the Sansum Narrows. The sweeping landscapes of evergreen trees and coastal cabins will evoke a sense of love for your surroundings. Spend your afternoon underwater, the protected inlet is ideal for diving. Jacques Costeau once admired the area as one of his favorite diving spots in the world. For a different activity, head to land where you can choose from four different golf courses a short drive away.
LADYSMITH
Continue your exploration of the Gulf Islands to the town of Ladysmith. Nestled along the eastern shores of Vancouver Island, you’ll be able to anchor on the 49th parallel where the US and Canadian border meet. The charming town with a rich history offers all the attractions you can think of. Hiking, shopping, kayaking, whale watching, fishing, and crabbing are just some of your options. Stroll down the docks, admiring the unique shoreline, and historic buildings. Some of the buildings may look familiar, multiple movies have shot scenes throughout the town. Return to ASCENTE for a scrumptious dinner, waiting for you on the aft deck.
NANAIMO
GANGES
Your next destination is a favorite among local yachters. The cerulean waters are often dotted with white yachts in the summer months. Ganges is the largest town on Salt Spring Island and known for having a vibrant art scene. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, walk to Centennial Park where you can discover local vendors at the market showcasing produce, baked goods, fresh flowers, art, and much more. Back onboard ASCENTE, lounge on the top deck, a great place for wildlife viewing. Whether looking towards land, water, or air you’ll easily spot wildlife of all kinds. Some of which may include tufted puffins, Tundra swans, sea otters, whales, bald eagles, and sea lions.
POET’S COVE
Enjoy the tranquility of Poet’s Cove, after a short cruise past Prevost Island and through Captain Passage. The archipelago located on South Pender Island is home to Poet’s Cove Resort & Spa. The seaside retreat offers spa packages that are sure to leave your feeling relaxed and reinvigorated. Visit one of the bars at the resort for cocktail hour before returning to ASCENTE for an extravagant last dinner, complete with champagne toast. Savor your last moments onboard while watching the sun sink in the distance. This quintessential yachting destination will welcome you back during your next stay.
VICTORIA
Take one last paddle around the calm cove before departing for Victoria. Indulge in breakfast while underway to Victoria. Your last morning will be spent cruising through the Haro Strait passing islands both big and small. Each boasting unique and inviting backdrops. Appreciate the pure unfiltered scenery during your last moments onboard ASCENTE.
TIME ZONE
PACIFIC DAYLIGHT TIME - UTC/GMT -7 HOURS
CURRENCY
CAD - CANADIAN DOLLAR - $ CLIMATE
JUNE
JULY
DISTANCE