Mike and Beth's Adventures

Nanaimo is a major city and a transition point in the Pacific Northwest.  It is located at the top of the Gulf Islands.  Boating north, until this point,  has been an enchanting trip through protected waters that surround and course through closely packed islands.  The interplay of clouds, sea, winds, currents, forests of lush green and wildlife make for a tranquil journey.   As the tide recedes tide pools can be accessed along the shoreline North of Nanaimo, harsher conditions will be encountered.  Stretches of open water will be traversed.  Wind and current have longer fetches to work their magic.  Additionally, the winds and currents are likely to create a beam sea if you are crossing the Strait.  The Pacific winds are channeled through low terrain to blow forcefully as you pass Qualicum Beach.  Whiskey Gulf area, a torpedo test range, located in the Strait of Georgia, must be avoided if it is active. Ports, which offer comfortin...

Ladysmith is a cute hillside town located between Sidney and Nanaimo.  It is a good provisioning location with a butcher shop, a couple of excellent bakeries, and a grocery store.  There is also a delightful selection of eateries in town.  The town is well kept with nice plantings, and signage pointing out events or artifacts from the town's past.  It was fun to stroll and learn the history of the area.  This sailing ship's anchor was recovered from the harbor The core business district is clustered around just a couple of streets.  The compactness is convenient for cruisers as we are usually traveling by foot.  You can find everything you would need in a two-block area.   The former E&N train station in Ladysmith Passenger service ended in 2011 We berthed at the marina operated by the Ladysmith Maritime Society.  They also operate a Maritime Museum and wooden boat center located at the marina.  For a small fee you can tour the ...