By Worth Avenue Yachts / Vessel Feature Photography by Alec Burke of Seattle Yacht Media\
Breathtaking landscapes, remote islands, unparalleled wildlife: prepare to immerse yourself in the idyllic scenery of British Columbia. Boasting 27,200 kilometers of coastline, Canada’s westernmost province is well-loved by boaters as it is perfectly suited for exploration by yacht.
And what a yacht this is! Newly available for charter in the Northwest via Worth Avenue Yachts, the stunning SUMMERTIME II provides the perfect home base for exploring the untouched reaches of this natural paradise. Whether it’s your maiden voyage north or a much-anticipated return after the easing of travel restrictions, aboard SUMMERTIME II, you can take a break from the demands of the helm and allow the friendly crew to take care of the details, even as you control your own destiny. Traverse Desolation Sound, cruise the Sunshine Coast, or island hop around the Gulf Islands—whichever inspirational itinerary floats your boat, beautiful B.C. beckons. Simply chart your course, sit back, and enjoy.
DESOLATION SOUND
With long stretches of stunning shoreline, a maze of gorgeous islands, astonishing bays, and peaceful secluded coves, Desolation Sound is considered by many to be one of the top cruising grounds in the world.
[Bon Voyage]
April Point Resort: Meet SUMMERTIME II at April Point Resort, a tucked away retreat located on the pristine shores of Quadra Island. The three-hour-long cruise towards your first stop in Blind Channel will allow you time to settle into life onboard and get acquainted with the attentive crew while exploring the onboard amenities. Weave through the seemingly endless waterways to Blind Bay and enjoy the picturesque coastal landscapes and views of quiet beachfronts.
[Port of Calls]
Blind Channel: Home to the Blind Channel Resort on West Thurlow Island, this impeccable destination can only be accessed by boat or float plane. The convenient stop located between Johnstone Strait and Cordero Channel offers a wealth of opportunities: wine tasting, delicious food, creative artwork, and outstanding hospitality to create an exceptional experience. Return to SUMMERTIME II in time to savor the brilliant hues of the setting sun in the distance. There’s no better way to end an evening than on the deck next to the fire pit.
Dent Island: Discover the pure joy of life onboard with a splendid morning cruise as you indulge in a decadent breakfast complete with a fresh mimosa. Next, explore the amenities of Dent Island Lodge. Fishing outings, jet boat tours, helicopter excursions, and wildlife observations are just some of the activities offered by the quaint seaside resort. Savor the grand sweeping views of the Kelly green mountains beyond the aquamarine waters. For dinner, treat yourself to unparalleled water views at the resort’s flagship Yaculta Dining Room, all while savoring farm to table cuisine starring the likes of local Dungeness crab, halibut, and wild salmon.
Teakerne Arm: Next, maneuver through Teakerne Arm, a deep inlet extending from Lewis Channel into West Redonda Island. Choose to spend your evening anchored just inside the entrance of Talbot Cove or venture further inward towards the picturesque waterfall flowing from Cassel Lake at the head of the North Arm. Cascading down nearly two and a half stories, this is a stunner of a waterfall. The deep cobalt waters present an ideal location for you to explore and take advantage of the onboard amenities, including kayaks and paddleboards. Or, head ashore to hike the short but vigorous route to Cassel Lake, another popular swimming location.
Roscoe Bay: Roscoe Bay on West Redonda Island sits where the Waddington and Homfray channels meet. This popular anchorage provides the ultimate in serenity and relaxation. The bay is divided into an inner cove and an outer cove, separated by a drying shoal easily crossed by shallow draft boats at half-tide. Most yachts enter the bay on a rising tide. As you pass yachts of all shapes and sizes anchored in the inner cove you’ll be greeted by friendly smiles and waves as you cruise by. Take the tender to shore and enjoy a leisurely hike to the knob. Here you’ll see the awe-inspiring landscape from above. Spend more time on land by taking an old logging road to Black Lake. During the summer months, the water is warm and will implore you to dive in.
Tenedos Bay: Located to the East of Mink Island, Tenedos Bay, more commonly known as Deep Bay, offers incredible scenery. This island is joined with the mainland by a drying shoal. Just a short dinghy ride away is the mouth of a stream that runs from Unwin Lake. Hike along the stream to this popular swimming stop. Several of the stream’s pools, screened by vegetation, create a peaceful environment to soak in the beauty.
Gorge Harbour: Continue your journey to Gorge Harbour Marina Resort, just a short hour-long cruise away on Cortes Island. The calm waters of this local favorite boasts sublime scenery, making it a wonderful place to enjoy your last moments aboard SUMMERTIME II—don’t forget to end the day with an elegant dinner together served al fresco on the aft deck, followed by a celebratory last-night champagne toast.
[Disembark]
Taku Resort & Marina: Back due west off Quadra Island, on the calm waters of Drew Harbour, take one last kayak excursion around the bay before disembarking at the laidback, yet luxurious Taku Resort and Marina
SUNSHINE COAST
The glistening waters along the Sunshine Coast are calm and sheltered and offer numerous protected anchorages, views of extraordinary coastlines, and access to quaint villages to experience the local culture.
[Bon Voyage]
Vancouver: Gaze over the urban sprawl of Vancouver, looking at the ocean of opportunity that awaits. Take in your magical surroundings one last time as you walk down the dock to board your ultimate vacation destination for the next week. SUMMERTIME II and her fabulous crew await your arrival.
[Ports of Call]
Bowen Island: Located in the center of Howe Sound, Bowen Island, is a haven for rest and relaxation. A short cruise from Vancouver, the island escape offers outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, beachcombing, golf, scuba diving, and much more. Start your morning with a brisk walk around Crippen Park, or for a unique wellness experience, go to Nectar Yoga for rejuvenation in an unspoiled natural setting. Visit some of the local art galleries and grab award winning chocolate at Cocoa West Chocolatier before departing for your next destination, Secret Cove.
Secret Cove: The sheltered harbor of Secret Cove is located north of Sechelt near the entrance of Smuggler Cove Marine Park. This popular summer destination provides a remote atmosphere while maintaining the amenities and conveniences of a much larger community. The mild climate makes this an ideal location to spend the day fishing. With year-round fishing for Chinook salmon and seasonal fishing for coho and sockeye salmon, you’re sure to get a few bites. Keep your eyes out for whales passing by, you may see orcas breach in the water beside you.
Pender Harbour: The next stop along your epic journey is Pender Harbour, a favorite among local yachters. The calm azure blue waters invite you to paddleboard or kayak around the tranquil protected bay. For a more adventurous afternoon, try cold-water scuba diving. The tide, well below the surface, rushes through the narrow inlets and makes for a truly unique underwater experience. After enjoying all the ocean has to offer, head to shore where you can explore the quaint resort or walk along the forested trails. End your day by enjoying cocktail hour on the top deck where you can look across the staggering landscapes.
Princess Louisa Inlet: The 4-mile-long Princess Louisa Inlet is considered to be the “holy grail” of yacht cruising by aficionados around the world. Accessed by the Malibu Rapids, the inlet is surrounded by 3,000-foot-tall mountains that plunge vertically over 600-feet below the depths of the water. You’ll feel as though you’re entering a cathedral as the Captain and crew slowly navigate through the waters. Once you clear the Malibu Rapids and continue cruising, you’ll be treated to stunning landscapes featuring dramatic waterfalls streaming down the breathtaking mountainsides. When SUMMERTIME II is secured behind MacDonald Island, you’ll have the opportunity to take the tender ashore for an up-close view of Chatterbox Falls. No matter how many times this exquisite destination is visited, it always astonishes all who experience the sheer cliffs and natural beauty. A location this stunning deserves a longer stay, so plan to spend a couple of nights anchored in this serene inlet.
[Disembark]
Garden Bay: After enjoying the majestic scenery of Princess Louisa Inlet, return through the Jervis Inlet to Garden Bay. This small village of 330 people was originally occupied by the Coast Salish First Nations and enjoys a rich history in a truly tranquil setting. Take the tender across the bay to the Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina in Madeira Park where you can spend the afternoon getting pampered. Their wide range of treatments are inspired by the ocean’s bounty and will leave you feeling refreshed. Take advantage of the jacuzzi, pool, glacier shower, and sauna; all before catching a seaplane flight back to Vancouver.
GULF ISLANDS
The unmatched wilderness feel of the Canadian Gulf Islands will transport you to another world, without traveling very far at all.
[Bon Voyage]
Victoria: Begin your adventure in British Columbia’s stunning capital city. The iconic architecture of the Fairmont Empress in the background of the glimmering Victoria harbor will welcome you to a destination like no other. Watch the seaplanes take off as you walk towards the Parliament house as you enjoy the lively city. A short distance away is Brentwood, a small village home to the Brentwood Bay Resort. As you get comfortable onboard SUMMERTIME II, take advantage of the mild climate often found throughout the Canadian Gulf Islands by lounging on the bow sun pads while getting underway.
[Ports of Call]
Brentwood Bay: Located on the Saanich Peninsula just north of Victoria, this small village is bustling with beautiful scenery and attractions. Home to the Butchart Gardens, located a short car ride away, this can’t-miss stop along your journey offers magnificent colors and aromas along with a tranquil environment to indulge in afternoon tea. Walk down the docks of the Brentwood Bay Resort and experience the pure joy of yachting; meeting fellow boaters along your stroll. Enjoy an enticing dinner featuring local favors prepared by the onboard chef and then finish the evening cuddled up next to the firepit onboard.
Maple Bay: Walk along the smooth pebbled beaches surrounding the narrow inlet of Maple Bay. During your two-hour cruise to this epic destination, you’ll pass between Salt Spring Island and Vancouver Island through the Sansum Narrows. The sweeping landscapes of evergreen trees and coastal cabins will evoke a sense of love for your surroundings. Consider spending your afternoon underwater as the protected inlet is ideal for diving. (Jacques Cousteau once admired the area as one of his favorite diving spots in the world.) For a different activity, head to land where you can choose from four different golf courses a short drive away.
Ladysmith: Continue your exploration of the Gulf Islands in the town of Ladysmith. Nestled along the eastern shores of Vancouver Island, you’ll be able to anchor on the 49th parallel where the U.S. and Canadian borders meet. The charming town offers all the attractions you can think of; hiking, shopping, kayaking, whale watching, fishing, and crabbing are just some of your options. Stroll down the docks, admiring the unique shoreline, and historic buildings. Some of the buildings may look familiar as multiple movies have shot scenes throughout the town.
Nanaimo: The energetic urban sprawl of Nanaimo welcomes a change of scenery from the more rural destinations of your adventure thus far. Watch for ferries that frequent the waters, carrying passengers to the remote islands you passed along your way. Explore the waterways by paddling around Saysutshun or hopping in the tender for a fishing excursion. Walk along the shore at Neck Park, where you may have a chance at meeting the friendly octopus that lives near the deep waters next to the tide pools. A short walk from the colorful waterfront is the Old City Quarter. The eclectic neighborhood with a quintessential downtown feel offers local restaurants, boutiques, and much more. While you’re visiting don’t forget to try a Nanaimo bar, a delicious wafer topped with nuts, custard, and chocolate ganache.
Ganges: Your next destination is a favorite among local yachters as the cerulean waters are often dotted with white yachts in the summer months. Ganges is the largest town on Salt Spring Island and known for having a vibrant arts scene. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, walk to Centennial Park where you can discover local vendors at the market showcasing produce, baked goods, fresh flowers, art, and much more. Back onboard SUMMERTIME II, lounge on the top deck, a great place for wildlife viewing—some of which may include tufted puffins, Tundra swans, sea otters, whales, bald eagles, and sea lions.
Poets Cove: Enjoy the tranquility of Poets Cove after a short cruise past Prevost Island and through Captain Passage. The archipelago located on South Pender Island is home to Poets Cove Resort & Spa. The seaside retreat offers spa packages that are sure to leave your feeling relaxed and reinvigorated. Visit one of the bars at the resort for cocktail hour heading back onboard for an extravagant last dinner, complete with champagne toast.
[Disembark]
Victoria: Take one last paddle around the calm cove before departing for Victoria. Your last morning will be spent cruising through the Haro Strait passing islands both big and small, each boasting unique and inviting backdrops. Appreciate the pure unfiltered scenery during your last moments onboard SUMMERTIME II.
>> For more information on booking a charter, contact Lori Eastes at 206.209.1920, or visit: worthavenueyachts.com/charter-yacht/summertime_ii-11130/.
SWEET SUMMERTIME II
The exquisitely appointed SUMMERTIME II offers luxurious accommodations for eight guests in four en suite staterooms. The timeless interior décor features fresh colors and warm woodwork throughout; enjoy relaxing in the generous salon, an ideal location to gather before sitting for dinner. The sky lounge boasts a beautiful location for entertaining and enjoying cocktail hour complete with a wet bar, panoramic windows, and television. All accommodations feature ample lighting, privacy, and a welcoming ambiance. The full-beam primary cabin includes a king-sized bed and his and hers facilities with a jacuzzi tub. Two of the guest cabins offer queen-sized beds while the final guest cabin offers side-by-side single beds. Exterior amenities include various shaded deck spaces with reclining chaise loungers, al fresco dining options, and a barbeque for fresh grilled meal selections. Completing the exterior features is a massive swim platform perfect for launching paddleboards, kayaks, or dipping your toes in the water.
