Pierless Blog - 2026-06-02 Kisameet Bay to Oliver Cove

June 2nd - Tuesday- 7:40 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.    33 Nm Traveled

We had a beautiful morning as we hauled anchor and left Kisameet Bay.  The anchorage was not what we hoped, so moving on felt good.  Having watched the weather reports/forecasts for our crossing to Haida Gwaii, the next few days looked good, with high winds coming in later in the week.  Moving north quickly and getting in position for a crossing would be critical or we would have to wait for another good weather window...

Leaving Kisameet Bay

Our plan for the day was to head to Bella Bella for fuel and provisions, then continue on to Oliver Cove near Price Island.  The engine was on and anchor up by 7:40 a.m.  The morning was clear and sunny, no wind and quite warm.  Water was glassy smooth and we enjoyed the sun on our backs.
Calm waters leaving Kisameet Bay
 
Warm morning leaving Kisameet Bay

The passage to Bella Bella (also known as Waglisla) was warm and calm.  We had a helpful current through Lama Passage.  We arrived at Bella Bella near noon.  The fuel dock closes from noon to one, so we had some down-time at the dock.  We arrived at the same time the tour boat Swell arrived.  Swell is an old wooden tug built a hundred years ago.  It has been modified for touring with passengers.  They accommodate 12 passengers, cruising from Victoria north on an 8 day trip.  They were disembarking their passengers in Bella Bella while we were there.


Kisameet to Bella Bella


Approaching Bella Bella


Swell at Bella Bella


Pierless at Bella Bella fuel dock

A sign on the fuel dock informed us that outsiders need permission to visit Bella Bella. Since it was lunch hour we we weren't able to get permission quickly so I waited at the fuel dock, Dave went to the nearby store for provisions. He also deposited our trash.


Canoe and buildings at Bella Bella


Bella Bella Harbor

When the attendant returned, we took on fuel and water.  We may have stayed longer, but there was another boat waiting for fuel and no room for two boats, so we left the pier and continued on our way to Oliver Cove.


Bella Bella to Oliver Cove

Leaving Bella Bella at 1:30 p.m., we enjoyed sailing and motor-sailing.  We passed the South Island lighthouse around 6:00 p.m. and turned north toward Oliver Cove, arriving at 7:30.  The anchorage is well protected and picturesque.  It also provide good wildlife viewing along the shoreline.


South Island Lighthouse

It had been a long day, so we had dinner, relaxed and turned in for the night.


Oliver Cove



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