In the last episode, we left Moore Bay and stopped at Sullivan Bay Marina before heading north toward Nimmo Bay. We checked out some anchorages along the way and found this beautiful, calm spot right by Blair Islet, tucked between the island and the mainland near Burly Bay. It was a picturesque anchorage with sheer rock cliffs and a big mountain backdrop. When we arrived, we spotted an osprey, and then a seal popped up eating an octopus! Anne had hoped to see one, but not be eaten. We enjoyed the peaceful evenings with just birds and reflections on the water.
We stayed about five days, exploring at low tide with the dinghy through the narrow passage. We saw sea stars, anemones, jellies, sea cucumbers, barnacles, clams, and lots of little fish while the current flowed through. The weather was mixed with rain and fog, but we had a couple of gorgeous sunny days that made it all worthwhile, just like those Oregon coast RV trips. No luck in the crab trap, though, so we had a big pot of chilli instead.
After 17 days out, we pulled anchor early on a drizzly morning, timed the currents perfectly through the narrows, crossed Queen Charlotte Strait around the west side of Malcolm Island, and arrived back at Port McNeill for resupply. We got a great slip in Dock E at the harbour authority marina. It was right across from the fuel dock at North Island Marina, so I enjoyed morning coffee and evening happy hours watching the boats come and go.
The harbour is also home to many eagles, herons, shore birds and the odd cute sea otter. Stay tuned for more of our adventures as we head back out for another extended stretch exploring and anchoring in the Brougtons and beyond!
*Check out the 2026 Boating Season Playlist*
