Victoria to Point Roberts by boat

Pilotage Plan: Victoria, BC to Point Roberts, WA

Departure: Victoria, BC, CanadaCoordinates: Longitude -123.3718, Latitude 48.4245

Your adventure begins in the quaint and picturesque harbor of Victoria, a city famed for its charming waterfront, vibrant gardens, and rich maritime history. Before setting sail, make sure to check the latest weather forecasts and marine traffic advisories.

Stops and Shelters Along the Way:

1. Sidney Spit National Park Reserve: A mere 30 minutes from Victoria, this stunning archipelago offers sheltered bays like Becher Bay and Salt Spring Island, offering safe refuge if adverse weather approaches. Don’t forget your camera for the beautiful sandy beaches and walking trails in this serene environment.

2. Benoit Point: Following your course northward along the Saanich Peninsula, Benoit Point is a great stop to stretch your legs and enjoy nature. The area is rich in marine life and offers great opportunities for birdwatching.

3. Ganges on Salt Spring Island: This vibrant town and its marina provide excellent facilities and can be an ideal stop for fuel or provisioning. The local shops and art galleries are a perfect way to enjoy the local culture.

4. Ladysmith: Located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, this harbor town is another great sheltering point if the weather worsens. The town offers quaint streets and a lovely waterfront to explore.

5. Southeast Pender Island: Providing a rich marine environment, this area has several sheltered bays ideal for anchoring if you need to pause your journey.

Route: Navigational Aids & Considerations

Once you depart Victoria, chart a course through the Gulf Islands. Keep your map handy, and consider using a navigation app such as Savvy Navvy to help monitor your position and course:

• Start by heading through the Haro Strait, observing the busy shipping lanes. The strait is generally well-marked with navigational buoys: pay special attention to the “B” markings which indicate the start of the busy shipping route.

• Make a note of the TSS (Traffic Separation Scheme) in place when nearing Tsawwassen, ensuring you stay in the channel as directed and heed the regulations for vessel traffic in this area.

• As you near Point Roberts, keep an eye on the lighthouses, especially the Point Roberts Light, which provides guidance to vessels as they approach the entrance.

Local Restrictions & Regulations

While journeying through U.S. waters, ensure you have checked in per customs regulations before disembarking in Point Roberts. Don’t forget to comply with any fishing regulations if you plan to partake in recreational fishing, as regulations may vary between Canada and the U.S.

Be mindful of any seasonal closures and no-wake zones, particularly around busy marinas and near wildlife sanctuaries to preserve local ecosystems.

Conclusion: Who is this Trip For?

This route from Victoria to Point Roberts is ideal for recreational boaters who enjoy serene coastal cruising while remaining mindful of safety. It is well-suited for families and nature enthusiasts, providing opportunities to explore beautiful islands, relax in protected waters, and discover popular local attractions. The gentle currents and clear navigation aids make this route welcoming for less experienced boaters while offering engaging adventures for seasoned skippers.

Ensure that as you prepare for the trip, you not only enjoy the beautiful landscape but also prioritize safety, keeping your vessel and your crew secure while enjoying the mesmerizing beauty of the Pacific Northwest waters. Happy sailing!