The Gulf Islands are a favourite destination for boaters from around the world.

Magnificent scenery, great weather, countless islands, coves and passes make this a year-round boater’s paradise.

The Gulf Islands are Canada’s newest national park, created to protect the islands’ wonderfully diverse ecosystem. As you cruise between the islands, watch for whales breaching, porpoises bow-riding and even black bears foraging for berries and salmon.

Vancouver Island’s Beaufort mountain range creates a rain shadow effect which, combined with temperate year-round weather, create some of the best boating in Canada.

When its time for lunch, pull into a secluded bay on one of the hundreds of islands and islets in the archipelago. Explore the shoreline where old-growth forests meet the sea or pull into one of the many communities dotted among the islands.

Ladysmith Marina is perfectly positioned mid-way between the northern and southern Gulf Islands. And with new boathouses under construction, cruising the islands has never been more attractive.