Calm Bay Anchorage, Gulf Islands

Large and relatively open, Calm Bay is nestled between Penelakut (formerly Kuper) and Thetis islands. It’s one of those anchorages where boaters seek shelter when cruising the Gulf Islands. The bay makes an excellent staging anchorage for transiting Dodd Narrows, only 11-miles north, or for an overnight visit.

With room for dozens of boats, Clam Bay also provides boaters a location to wait for a weather window before exiting the Gulf Islands through Porlier Pass, 2.5-miles northeast, and crossing the Strait of Georgia.

Thetis and Kuper islands were named after the frigate HMS Thetis, which was stationed in the area during the colonial days, and her commander, Captain Augustus Kuper. In 2010 Kuper Island, home to the Penelakut Band, was renamed in honour of the Penelakut First Nation people.

The entrance to Calm Bay is partly blocked by Centre Reef. Rocket Shoal lies in the middle of the bay. The safest approach to the main anchorage area is south of Centre Reef, between Buoy U42 and Penelakut Spit, which extends from Penelakut Island.

The preferred anchorage is situated in 15 to 35 feet of water, just south of the channel that separates Penelakut and Thetis islands. It provides excellent hold over sticky sand and shell bottoms. Although anchoring throughout the bay is possible in depths up to 45 feet. It is advisable to exercise caution when anchoring off the eastern shore of Kuper Island due to reports of submerged machinery, including a steam boiler, at a depth of 25 feet Datum. Mariners need to be aware of a charted submerged cable north of Rocket Shoal that runs from Thetis Island to the north end of Norway Island. It is also possible to set the hook in the small bay on the north shore, between Leech Island and Thetis Island.

With the anchor secure, you can now explore the area with a little adventure. Grab a couple of boat bags, hop in the dinghy and make your way west through the drying canal between Thetis and Peneaux islands, connecting Calm Bay and Telegraph Harbour, to the dinghy dock at Telegraph Harbour Marina. Day markers mark the east entrance of the canal. “The Cut,” as it is locally known, makes for great exploration, as long as it’s done near high tide. Depths are uneven and the passage snakes, making it a challenge to stay in the centre. The channel dries approximately two feet above datum.

It’s a short walk to the one-room Howling Wolf Farm Market, a small, unstaffed store that runs on the honor system and has refrigerators and freezers filled with local eggs, meats, and dairy products. The shelves and tables contain baked goods, vegetables, preserves, and gift items. The farm is known for its award-winning two-pound berry and fruit pies. As the sign on the wall says, “It’s what’s inside that counts.” Fill your bags, enter your purchases into a spiral notebook, and place your payment in a lock box by the door.

For those seeking some exercise, the quiet, safe rural roads of Thetis Island are lovely for strolling.

On your way back to the boat, stop at Telegraph Harbor’s Ice cream parlor for a double scoop cone. Enjoy your treat while sitting on the covered porch overlooking the grounds and marina.

To the south, additional provisions and spirits are available at the Thetis Island Resort & Marina convenience store stocked with the basics. There is also a Restaurant and Pub.