NORTH SAANICH

• Latitude: 48.6782
• Longitude: -123.417
• West Coast Canada
• Marina in Canada

Location: North Saanich BC Canada

Marine Port: North Saanich, Canada

General Description:

North Saanich is a district municipality located at the northern tip of the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is part of the Greater Victoria area and is known for its rural and coastal appeal. The port and marina areas in North Saanich are primarily used for recreational boating, fishing, and some commercial activities. The area is popular for its scenic beauty and proximity to the Gulf and San Juan Islands.

Specifications & Facilities:

• Location:

  • Latitude: Approximately 48.65° N
  • Longitude: Approximately 123.42° W

• Type: Recreational and Light Commercial Port

• Main Marinas:

  • Van Isle Marina: One of the main marinas in the area, offering a range of services including moorage, fuel docks, yacht sales, and repair facilities.
  • Port Sidney Marina: Located nearby in Sidney, this marina provides extensive moorage and amenities for boaters.

• Moorage:

  • Types of Moorage: Short-term, long-term, and transient moorage.
  • Accommodation: Vessels of varying sizes, from small boats to larger yachts.

• Amenities:

  • Power and water hookups.
  • Fuel docks (gasoline and diesel).
  • Pump-out facilities for sewage.
  • Shower and restroom facilities.
  • Wi-Fi access.
  • Laundry services.
  • Chandlery and marine supply stores.

• Services:

  • Boat repair and maintenance services.
  • Marine engineering and electronic services.
  • Yacht brokerage and sales.
  • Winter storage and haul-out services.

• Customs and Immigration:

  • Port Sidney Marina and some North Saanich marinas function as Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) entry points for pleasure craft arriving from international waters.

• Climate:

  • Temperate maritime climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.
  • Average summer temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C.
  • Average winter temperatures hover around 5°C to 10°C.

• Accessibility:

  • The port is accessible by road via the Patricia Bay Highway (Highway 17).
  • Proximity to Victoria International Airport (YYJ), located within North Saanich.
  • Regular ferry services from the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal to Vancouver and other Gulf Islands.

• Nearby Attractions:

  • Butchart Gardens.
  • Gulf Islands National Park Reserve.
  • Sidney by the Sea – a charming nearby town with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Operational Considerations:

• Navigation:

  • Waters around North Saanich can have strong currents and tides, requiring careful navigation.
  • Most areas are well-charted and equipped with navigational aids.

• Seasonality:

  • Peak boating season typically runs from late spring through early fall.
  • Off-season services may be reduced, and some facilities may have limited hours.

• Environmental Regulations:

  • Marinas and port areas adhere to Canadian environmental standards and best practices regarding waste management, pollution control, and habitat protection.

North Saanich's port and marinas offer a blend of convenience, high-quality facilities, and beautiful surroundings, making them a preferred destination for recreational mariners and commercial operators looking for reliable services in a picturesque setting.