Richmond to Point Roberts by boat

Pilotage Plan from Richmond, BC, CA to Point Roberts, WA, US

OverviewThis journey from Richmond, British Columbia, to Point Roberts, Washington, is a delightful maritime experience that offers the opportunity to engage with some scenic landscapes and local attractions while keeping safety as the top priority. The route is approximately 18 nautical miles and is ideal for intermediate boaters who are comfortable with navigation and local conditions, as well as the unique waters of the Pacific Northwest.

Route Breakdown

1. Departure from Richmond, BC - Starting Point: Richmond, BC (Coordinate: -123.139754, 49.190763). - Get underway from one of the marinas located along the Fraser River. Steveston Harbor is a great option, equipped with facilities and proximity to the river mouth. As you begin your cruise, ensure you keep a close eye on the tidal changes along the Fraser River, especially the outgoing tides which can create hidden currents.

2. Navigating the Fraser River - As you exit the river, you'll enter the Strait of Georgia. Be mindful of commercial traffic, especially tugboats and barges, that may be operating in the river. Use local marine charts for guidance and adhere to VHF radio protocols for communication. If weather worsens, you can consider stopping at either Steveston or the nearby Sea Island as good shelters.

3. Transiting to Boundary Bay - After navigating past the river mouth into the Strait, you'll make your way towards Boundary Bay. The northern edge of Boundary Bay offers some fascinating features, including mudflats and a number of wildlife preserves, most notably The Reifel Bird Sanctuary, which could serve as an interesting stop (though be prepared for an anchor drop and timing considerations for return tides).

4. Approaching Point Roberts - Continuing south across Boundary Bay, you’ll be keeping a watchful eye on navigation aids like buoys marking the United States/Canada border. Point Roberts is situated at the southern tip of the boundary. Be cautious of local rules since this area is sensitive regarding border regulations and patrols.

Safety and Navigation Considerations

• Hazard Awareness: Keep an eye out for strong currents, particularly in shallow areas and the channel exits where tidal flows can be unpredictable.
• Weather Monitoring: The weather can change quickly; ensure to check forecasts before you depart and be prepared for sudden shifts. If rough conditions arise, you have the option to duck back into Boundary Bay or return to Steveston until you can safely continue.
• Equipment Checks: Make sure to carry a reliable VHF radio for marine communication, appropriate charts, and navigational tools, including GPS for accurate positioning.

Points of Interest and Suggested Stops

• Steveston Village: This historic fishing village offers charming waterfront perspectives, lively markets, and a chance to enjoy some fresh local seafood.
• Reifel Bird Sanctuary: Worth a brief detour for nature enthusiasts, the sanctuary is a refuge for migrating birds and offers scenic trails for nature walks.
• Marinas at Point Roberts: Once you arrive at Point Roberts, the area is equipped with marinas where you can find fuel, supplies, and even opportunities for sightseeing on land.

Recommended Boating AppsFor a seamless navigation experience, consider installing these boating apps:

• Savvy Navvy: This app provides intuitive, user-friendly navigation features tailored specifically for sailors.
• Navionics: Great for marine charts and community updates.
• WeatherBug: Keep an eye on local weather conditions with updated alerts.

In summary, this route from Richmond to Point Roberts provides a blend of charming waterways, local wildlife, and interesting stops without compromising on safety. With good preparation and by adhering to proper navigational practices, you'll encounter a rewarding experience on this journey. Enjoy the adventure!