Circumnavigating Quadra Island - Day 1

Desolation Sound.

As I mentioned, we have been out for a cruise on the chuck. The first day we left Powell River and headed north up the Strait of Georgia to Desolation Sound. Because it is August, the anchorages there are still very busy. We opted to go to Refuge Cove for fuel and to replenish their supply of Wayne's books. Sales have been exceptionally good!

Heriot Bay fuel dock and Inn.

This trip we saw more boats going south. Back-to-school isn't far away. Once around Cortes Island, we head west to Quadra Island for a stop at Heriot Bay for more fuel (you can never have too much) and to check on their book supply. Just north of Heriot Bay we started looking for an anchorage for the night. We first looked at Moulds Bay. Wayne stayed here on a previous solo trip. There's one boat anchored, so we decide to head farther north.

Head of Village Bay.

At Village Bay, we found a wonderful anchorage with no one else around. Village Bay was the historic site of a First Nations village. You can see why they picked it. The bay is large with sloping beaches just right for landing large cedar canoes. There's a creek coming in at the head of the bay that leads to a lake not far away. There are also high bluffs to use for lookouts.

Village Bay anchorage on a calm day.

The bounty of the sea was right at their doorstep. I can just imagine what it was like. We anchored just to the right of a small island near the shore. We had plenty of swinging room, so we didn't need a stern line. The weather was forecast for light northwest winds, so the opening to the south was not a problem. This would not be a good place during a storm with southeasterlies. But no worries about that tonight. We settle down for a simple dinner and a relaxing night of reading and sleeping.

Cruising around Quadra Island.

If you aren't able to cruise in Coastal BC you can still experience the relaxed pace of life on Quadra Island. BC Ferries links Quadra to Vancouver Island via Campbell River. You can bring your own car or rent one in Campbell River. Some resorts provide transportation from the ferry dock, give them a call to check. If you want to walk on the ferry, check with Quadra Taxi and Tours about availability to get you to your destination. Come discover Quadra Island for yourself. -- Margy