They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and we couldn’t agree more. Why tell your friends and family about an unforgettable trip when you can show them?
Set sail from Nanaimo, cruise through dynamic waters on your way past the southwest side of Texada Island, and visit unique coastal communities in Nanoose – Parksville, the Comox Valley and Campbell River on your way to the world-famous Desolation Sound before looping back. Each stop offers unforgettable sights and experiences, iconic destinations that showcase a balance of urban and more adventurous discoveries, the best of Canada’s infinite coast.
This is more than just a route; it’s where lifelong memories and legendary stories begin.
The Route:
Nanaimo >
Comox Valley & Campbell River >
Desolation Sound (with stops) >
Return Voyage
Your First Destination: Nanaimo, BC
Also known as the Harbour City, Nanaimo is a vibrant coastal city with protected moorage, island access, and plenty to explore on land and sea. It’s the perfect launch point for cruising to neighbouring islands, offers incredible waterfront dining, and offers scenic island adventures aplenty. See Nanaimo’s Showcase for more planning details
Places to dock along the way:
- Nanaimo Boat Basin
- Waterfront Marina and Suites
- Stones Marina
- Page’s Resort and Marina on Gabriola Island
- Fairwinds Marina – Nanoose
Top Attractions in Nanaimo, BC:
- The Nanaimo Bastion & Museum
- Harbourfront Walkway
- Saysutshun (Newcastle Island)
- Pipers Lagoon & Neck Point Parks
See Nanaimo’s Showcase for a deeper dive into the region, marine services, activity details, events, and more!
Bonus Destination: Texada Island, BC
Distance from Nanaimo to Texada Island:
Approximately 25 to 30 miles.
Known as “The Rock,” Texada is BC’s largest Gulf Island, rugged, peaceful, and perfect for exploring. Hike Mount Pocahontas, relax on quiet beaches, dive Anderson Bay, or hunt for rare flower rocks. With rich local culture and no large predators, it’s a wild, yet welcoming coastal escape.
Places to consider along the way:
Top Attractions on Texada Island, BC:
- Heischolt Lakes
- Stromberg Falls
- Mount Davies
- Texada Island Museum
Destination #2: Comox Valley, Campbell River or both!
The Comox Valley and Campbell River are Vancouver Island’s top hubs for outdoor adventure. The Comox Valley, comprised of Comox, Courtenay, and Cumberland, offers a distinct mix of charm, culture, and must-see attractions in each community. Just up the coast, Campbell River proudly holds the title of the world’s salmon fishing capital and is a gateway to BC’s coastal wilderness. Book a tour, explore the town, and cast your line; bragging rights are included with the catch.
Comox Valley
Distance from Texada Is. to Comox:
Approximately 10 to 25 nautical miles.
Places to dock along the way, Comox Valley:
Top Attractions in Comox Valley, BC:
- Goose Spit Park
- Comox Air Force Museum
- Cumberland Trail Network
- Mount Washington Alpine Resort
See the Showcase for the Comox Valley for a deeper dive into the region, marine services, activity details, events, and more!
Campbell River
Distance from Texada Is. to Campbell River:
Approximately 70 to 85 nautical miles.
Places to dock along the way or in the area, Campbell River:
- Brown’s Bay Resort
- Gorge Harbour Marina Resort-Cortes Island
- Blind Channel Resort
- Discovery Harbour Marina
- Coast Marina
- Salmon Point Marina
Top Attractions in Campbell River, BC:
- Elk Falls Provincial Park & Suspension Bridge
- Discovery Fishing Pier
- Whale & Wildlife Tours
- Quinsam Salmon Hatchery
See Campbell River’s Showcase for a deeper dive into the region, marine services, activity details, events, and more!
Destination #3: Desolation Sound
Distance from Campbell River / Refuge Cove to Desolation Sound / Sarah Point:
Approximately 18 nautical miles.
Total Length of Desolation Sound to explore: Approximately 50 nautical miles of waterway to see most of the park.
A coastal paradise of calm, warm waters, forested fjords, and hidden coves—Desolation Sound is a dream for boaters, paddlers, and nature lovers. Set against a dramatic backdrop of the Coast Mountains, this stunning stretch of BC coastline offers world-class anchorages, abundant marine life, and countless quiet spots to drop anchor and stay awhile. Whether exploring by kayak, sailing into secluded bays, or simply soaking in the sunset from the deck, Desolation Sound delivers one of the most serene and unforgettable marine escapes in British Columbia.
Places to consider along the way:
Top Attractions in Desolation Sound, BC:
- Prideaux Haven
- Teakerne Arm & Cassel Lake
- Grace Harbour
- Refuge Cove
Return to the Harbour City with stories to tell and snapshots ready to share.
Don’t be surprised if a few extra detours call your name on the way back—we wouldn’t blame you.
The journey home is yours to design. Whether retracing your route or seeking new scenery, our trip planning tools can help you chart a course to the destinations that speak to you. As you exit the awe-inspiring Desolation Sound, you’ll face an enticing decision:
Go West
Head toward the artistic and welcoming communities of the Sunshine Coast. From charming seaside villages to the Union Steamship Marina at the mouth of Howe Sound, this route offers a mix of laid-back exploration and big-city energy. Base yourself here to soak in the tranquillity of glacier-fed waters or take Vancouver’s skyline from the sea.
Go East
Prefer the road (or waterway) more familiar? Revisit your favourite spots, or discover what you missed, along Vancouver Island’s east coast. Enjoy island-hopping to Denman and Hornby, unwind at the luxurious Fairwinds Marina in Nanoose Bay, or deepen your connection with the rich Indigenous heritage of the Snuneymuxw First Nation.
However you travel, we’d love to hear how your journey unfolds. Share your adventure, and you could be featured in one of our upcoming showcase itineraries. Tag us in your posts or submit your route for a chance to be featured!
Submit Your Adventure
