Coal Harbour, Marple River, Julian Cove

Before our one-hour cruise over to Julian Cove today, we spent part of the morning visiting Coal Harbour by dinghy (about 3 ½ miles) We wanted to visit the “museum” housed in the old RCAF Seaplane Hangar. It is a bit of a hoard of relics, but nevertheless has some fascinating items from the area’s past, including WWII memorabilia, a wall of chain saws, a bear with a flintlock, and a Ford Model A and T. Worth a trip if you’re in the area. Entry is through the AirCab office.

Old RCAF Seaplane hanger. Now aircab.

inside the massive hanger.

jawbone from a 92 foot blue whale that was shot in 1962.

one of the many rooms dedciated to the history of the area.

RCAF and other aviation artifacts.

security officer on guard.

aircab docks

Our early afternoon excursion was a trip back up the Marble River. This time we had another foot under our keel and there were breaks in the clouds which made for even more spectacular scenery than yesterday. It’s a must-do trip and the highlight of Quatsino Sound for us.

The advice on going with at least an eight-foot tide is spot on. Two feet less and we probably would not have made it past some of the shallows. Leaving the boat an hour before high tide at Makwaziniht Island let us reach the end of the navigable water at the big cave and the 90-degree bend in the river. There is a nice rock pile upon which to beach the dinghy and get off on the shore opposite the cave. Also, there is plenty of water in the cave to go all the way in and see the weathered formation up close.

We like to drift in the still water within the cave before riding the river current slowly back out. We saw eagles and seals on our journey.

We truly enjoyed our time in Varney Bay.

Moving to Julian Cove was a strategic repositioning for tomorrow’s cruise to Klaskino Inlet. The currents were favorable in Quatsino Narrows, so off we went.

Julian Cove is a well-protected anchorage in Buchholz Passage with tall mountains at the head. We anchored in 40 feet after first determining where the south seabed quickly rises. Make certain you scout out the shoals before picking where you drop your hook.

View looking out from Julian Cove. THe islet with the solo tree is a memorable feature of Julian Cove.

We were the only boat in Julian Cove and had a quiet night.