Explore Our Seas
Getting to Nanaimo is part of the experience…. from the south through warm water, resplendent islands and intriguing bays and inlets.
Cruising north through the Salish Sea, you’ll pass the Gulf Islands, quiet anchorages, and coastal communities like Cowichan Bay, Chemainus, and Ladysmith. It’s a sheltered, easygoing route, one that tends to stretch a little longer than planned.
On the way north, you might overnight at anchor off Salt Spring Island, Penelakut Island, or Thetis Island, or tie up at one of the marinas in Telegraph Harbour or Gabriola Island. Many boaters build this stretch into a loop, cruising up the east coast of Vancouver Island to Nanaimo, then weaving back through the islands toward Victoria, Vancouver, or even Seattle. Or you can dash across from Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast.
North of Nanaimo the Salish Sea opens, the scale of the horizon increases and the feel of wildness grows.
Getting Here by Water
- Distance: ~30 nautical miles from Vancouver (approx. 110 from Seattle)
- Route: Protected cruising via the Gulf Islands and Stuart Channel
- Fuel & Stops: Marinas and anchorages along the way, including Salt Spring and Thetis Island
What to know:
Wildlife sightings are common. Keep an eye out and give space where needed. Whale sightings are common – know Whalesafe procedures for these waters
Dodd Narrows requires careful timing due to strong tidal currents – See charts for best time to pass – (Slack Tide ) See charts for current times > Dodd Narrows – Pages 68 to 71 for 2026
Waters are generally sheltered and well-travelled
The Final Approach
As you leave Stuart Channel, things start to shift. The horizon opens, the water deepens, and Dodd Narrows keeps you paying attention.
On the other side, you’re in Nanaimo waters.
With Gabriola Island off your starboard side, you’ll find sheltered routes, productive fishing grounds, and plenty of places to drop anchor or explore by kayak.
Worth the Detour: Gabriola Island
If you’ve got the time, take it.
Gabriola is a short hop from Nanaimo and worth exploring, with:
- Quiet coves and sandy beaches
- The striking Malaspina Galleries
- Trails, viewpoints, and coastal parks
- Marinas and anchorages for overnight stays
It’s the kind of place where a quick stop turns into a full day, sometimes more.
You’ve Arrived
Welcome to the Harbour City.
Nanaimo’s enclosed harbour offers easy access, reliable moorage, and room to settle in, whether you’re staying the night or planning a longer stop. The Nanaimo Boat Basin and nearby marinas place you right in the centre of it all.
From your boat, you’re steps from parks, restaurants, shops, and everything you didn’t realize you needed until you docked.
Stay a While (You’ll Want To)
Just across the channel, Saysutshun (Newcastle Island) offers a quieter contrast. Walking trails, beaches, and a deeper connection to the land and its history with the Snuneymuxw First Nation.
Or head the other direction to Dinghy Dock Pub on Protection Island. Sometimes the plan really is just: tie up, grab a drink, and call it a good day.
Make It Your Base
Nanaimo isn’t just a stop; it’s a strong jumping-off point.
From here, you’re within easy reach of the Gulf Islands, Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast, and the routes north toward the Discovery Islands. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or exploring, it’s a place that makes planning simple and staying longer… very tempting.
Come for the Coast. Stay for the Rest.
You can pass through Nanaimo. But most don’t. Learn more about visiting the region here.
