Pierless Blog - 2026-05-23 - Nanaimo to Ford Cove - Hornby Island

 May 23rd:  Departure Time 8:00 a.m.  -  Saturday

After an engine check and minor adjustments, we untied from the mooring ball and headed over to the short-term tie at the port dock.  We needed some groceries and fuel, so paid for 3 hours at the pier.

We left the dock at 10:30 to continue north.  The channel north from downtown takes you along the waterfront between Nanaimo and Newcastle Island.  It is narrow with lots to look at as you cruise by.  We passed one interesting wooden boat on our way.  We saw a family of 7 with a dog in a very small dinghy depart from this boat...

 Boat at Nanaimo

Heading north we pass Pipers Lagoon.  There is a small cluster of islands here with many small homes/shacks built years ago.  Descendants of the original occupants have been allowed to continue living there.  

From Nanaimo to Ford Cove there is very little to see or do as you continue north in Georgia Strait.  We used the time to eat, nap and work on plans and projects.  One project was to fill the gap in the stern arch between solar panels to keep rain water from pouring down on our heads when at the helm.  We used plexiglass, screws and butyl tape to construct a catch for the rain and funnel it to the stern of the boat.  It seems to be working well and does not block the view up at the mast.

 Making Rain Barrier

On the way to Ford, we saw a pod of Orcas.  They were a bit far to see them well.  A whale watching boat clued us in to their presence.

 Orcas in Georgia Strait

We arrived at Ford Cove at 8:00 p.m. and were warmly greeted by locals who mistook us for two other sailors who they were expecting.  We all had a chuckle over this.  

The marina is small, but in nice condition.  We stayed on the floating breakwater for free.  It was large and stable and provided good protection from the winds.  It also allowed us to get a quick start in the morning (no anchor or mooring balls to deal with).  There is a small community and a nice looking restaurant to visit.

  Pierless in Ford Cove

Our plan Sunday is to head to Seymour Narrows north of Campbell River.  This is a notorious rapid that must be crossed at slack tide.  Our research on distance, wind and currents suggested we were in position for perfect timing through the pass if we leave early in the morning.