Yachting (Motor & Sail)
In 1890, the 180 foot SS Cap dropped anchor at the wooden dock located about 49° 31' N and 123° 55' W. It was a ship of the "Union Steamship Company" and at that time took day trippers on weekends to Halfmoon Bay and Buccaneer Bay. The proud ships of this fleet served as a lifeline for the coastal area which was nearly inaccessible from the interior. The 'then' rather mundane glamour of pleasures far away from city life has now been replaced by an idyllic maritime lifestyle.
Today, not many of the buildings of The Union Steamship Empire remain, a few tumbled down cabins on Bowen Island, these are the only reminders visible to draw your attention and the rest must be seen in past photos and in your imagination. The natural beauty of the coastal vacation land is still there and will make you drop anchor wherever these silent witnesses of the past exist. It still seems to be a secret that the well-protected waters of British Columbia rank among the three top maritime holiday environments in the world. The mild climate which is dry in summer and wet but not frozen in winter, makes for an all-year-climate - no matter if you are traveling in a power boat, a fishing boat or in a sailing yacht. We work according to the FTC maxim that your every wish will be fulfilled: navigation, wind conditions, tide and currents. Last not but least the inhabitants of the salty depths are waiting for you to try your skills - or those of the skippers who accompany you if you wish.
The forest seems to rise right out of the sea in the distance but as you draw nearer you see the glittering, rocky beach in between the sea and the giant trees interspersed with picturesque arbutus. As you look over the side of the boat, it is at times difficult to decide who is watching whom with big eyes in the crystal-clear water. Seals , porpoises and whales , if you're lucky will drop by for a curious look in amongst the ever present dish-sized aubergine-colored starfishes and multitudes of other fish so you will not be without companions from the deep. Every single bay, sandy beach and marine park is a small world of its own and no hotel bed can beat the experience of dropping anchor and staying onboard. Likewise, could you be watching bears catching salmon in autumn? Talking about fishing - let an expert show you how to save the evening with a table stocked by the catch of the deep. Plenty of fish and shrimps! But forgotten to stock up on wine? The next marina is not far away and will have a good selection. Of fish too, in case yours has jumped beyond the pan.
Enough of strolling from bay to the bay, its time to go sailing! Cross Georgia Strait and sail around Vancouver Island`s northern or southern tip. Now the wide Pacific is facing you - with a lot of sun or spray by the litre. If you're seeking fair competition , you can participate in a well-known international regatta in June which lasts twelve days and takes you 580 sm around the island. Traveling on a motor or sailing yacht, participating in a regatta or practicing various maneuvers, whichever you choose, your goal is to enjoy yourself and we will help you reach it! Everything is based on our 3-S-motto: service, sports and safety. Our local partners have been selected accordingly.
Now you've got sea legs - what about some shore leave to have a workout? The call of the often snowcapped mountains you can almost touch is irresistible. Swap your marine bunk for a luxurious hotel bed for a couple of days. Take a guided (ski) hike through the flora and fauna or indulge in some luxurious massage - exercise will make you agile again at the halyards. Use your imagination and enjoy putting together your own holiday. We will supply the jigsaw pieces and perhaps a surprise as well!
