John Henry’s Resort and Marina

1st October 2025

Situated halfway between Vancouver and Desolation Sound, Pender Harbour has long been a popular stop for those boating in BC and travelling up and down Malaspina Strait. It’s a complex maze of islands, bays, and reefs stretching more than three miles inland. The harbour is home to a handful of seaside communities, where most commuting is done by boat rather than the twisting roads, giving the area its well-earned nickname, “The Venice of the North.”

Enter the harbour between Williams Island and Henry Point at the mouth of Pender Harbour and continue to Hospital Bay. You will see the resort’s brightly coloured buildings to port well before your arrival. The colourful buildings, picnic tables, and lawn chairs create a special charm, and the grounds are neatly manicured.

Moor Your Vessel

John Henry’s Marina & Resort is one of the larger marinas in the harbour. Ideally located to serve boaters cruising in BC north to Princess Louisa Inlet, Desolation Sound, and beyond, the marina can accommodate vessels up to 150 feet. It features 31 slips from 15 to 70 feet and a 400-foot dock for larger boats. Enjoy peace of mind with 24/7 security, attentive service, and a pet-friendly environment. During the busy summer months (May–September), advance moorage reservations are strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.

When just outside Hospital Bay, hail the marina on VHF Channel 66A for your slip assignment. Upon arrival, a friendly dockhand will be waiting to assist with lines. Once secured, they will welcome you and provide a short briefing about the marina and resort.

The marina offers 30- and 50-amp power, washrooms, showers, coin-operated laundry, garbage and recycling facilities, and Wi-Fi. The adjacent fuel dock—the only one in Pender Harbour—can accommodate vessels up to 80 feet (larger vessels should call ahead). It offers three ethanol-free gas pumps and three diesel pumps (two high-flow). Moorage guests receive a $0.03 per litre discount on all fuel purchased. The fuel dock also has limited potable water available.

The only pump-out is located across the harbour at the Government Dock in Madeira Park.

General Store

Originally built in the 1940s and renovated over the years, the on-site general store is stocked with fresh produce, dry and canned goods, dairy, specialty foods, gifts, books, hardware, fishing tackle, boating supplies, and a full liquor store. With twelve flavours of scoop ice cream, it’s a convenient and pleasant stop for those boating in BC.

Grab a Bite

Housed in the same building as the General Store, Osprey Coastal Dining is open Wednesday through Sunday evenings during the season. The menu features West Coast favourites, with outstanding food preparation and presentation, friendly staff, and a casual atmosphere overlooking beautiful Pender Harbour.

The café is fully licensed to serve beer, wine, and cocktails. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating with harbour views. The outdoor deck, cantilevered over the water, features a louvered roof system that provides shade on hot days and protection from rain—an ideal setting after a day of cruising in BC.

Time Your Visit

Several artists make their home in the area, and there are many galleries to visit. Across the harbour, Madeira Park is home to the Pender Harbour Music Society, which performs monthly concerts. The community also hosts annual events such as the Pender Harbour Blues Festival.

Things to Do Near John Henry’s Marina

  • Go fishing or prawning just outside the harbour

  • Kayak or paddleboard the calm waters of Pender Harbour and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery

  • Explore nearby hiking trails and observe local wildlife including seals, eagles, and otters

  • Visit art galleries, historic sites, and local shops just a short distance from the marina