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Vanislander / Landmarks / Ports and Harbours
Nanaimo Harbour

Nanaimo Harbour

Nanaimo Harbour, a vibrant waterfront gem in the heart of Nanaimo, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island’s east coast. Known as the “Harbour City,” Nanaimo Harbour blends stunning natural beauty, rich maritime history, and a lively cultural scene, making it a must-visit for tourists exploring Vancouver Island beaches, tide pools, and coastal adventures. Whether you’re strolling the scenic Harbourfront Walkway, savoring a Nanaimo Bar, or embarking on a boat tour to Saysutshun (Newcastle Island), this bustling port is your launchpad to unforgettable experiences.

Coal Harbour

Coal Harbour

Coal Harbour is an entrance to the old-growth forests of Vancouver Island North's wilderness areas. It has access to scenic coastal waters and is a gateway to ocean adventures and a historical village. Coal Harbour is a perfect launch point for fishing charters, kayakers, and boaters. Dolphins, whales and sea otters have included the wildlife in the beautiful area.

Port Renfrew

Port Renfrew

Port Renfrew has been touted as "The Tall Tree Capital of Canada." It is also best known for its trails like Juan de Fuca Marine Trail and the historic West Coast Trail. Enjoy tens of kilometres of shorelines with amazing beaches. Fishing here is considered an opportunity for anglers. Port Renfrew is heaven for other water activities like whale watching, surfing, and kayaking.

Port Alice

Port Alice

Port Alice is "The Gateway to the Wild West Coast." The natural environment, such as lakes, rivers, mountains, and wood with excellent views of Neroutsos Inlet, is what this village is famous for. It is also counted as the sea otter capital of Canada. Port Alice is home to other animals such as sea lions, bears, and birds. A pleasant entertainment in Port Alice is fishing.

Port McNeill

Port McNeill

Port McNeill is a small town but a large community in North Vancouver Island with the rich natural land and sea resources. It is the gateway to the protected spaces, islands, and waterways of the Broughton Archipelago and Queen Charlotte Strait. Being close to the shoreline gives you chances to watch wildlife like dolphins, whales, seals, grizzly bears, black bears, elks, cougars, and deer.

Port Hardy

Port Hardy

Port Hardy is a district municipality on Vancouver Island. Every day in summer, the peak season in Port Hardy, ferries depart to popular tourist destinations in BC. Excellent wilderness activities, such as paddling, caving, scuba diving, whale watching, surfing, camping, and fishing, are popular. Lush green parks in Port Hardy are great for a family trip and having a picnic.

Port Alberni

Port Alberni

Port Alberni is a deep-sea port and a city on Vancouver Island. Port Alberni is known as the salmon capital of the world, heaven for anglers. The city with a moderate climate is famous for its breathtaking scenery. The area is surrounded by mountains, freshwater lakes and streams that will carve into your memory. There are several chances for outdoor and indoor activities.

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Vancouver Island Ports and Harbours

A port is a maritime facility that may comprise one or more harbours where ships may dock. A port is usually placed on a sea coast or estuary. It has access to the sea via river or canal. The importance of ports and harbours is because of their roles in transportation. Several ports and harbours exist in the Vancouver Island waterway region. The waterway region includes the Strait of Georgia, Discovery Passage, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Johnstone Strait, Queen Charlotte Sound, and the Haro Strait.
Nanaimo Harbour, Campbell River Harbour, Comox Harbour, Port of Cowichan Bay, Ladysmith Harbour, and Port Hardy are famous Vancouver Island ports and harbours. Nanaimo, the second-largest city on Vancouver Island, is a historical port city known as "The Harbour City" among the islanders. The Port of Nanaimo has local seaplane operators. There are various fishing ports on Vancouver Island. Among them is Port Alberni, which is known as the salmon capital of the world.

Most Crucial Vancouver Island Ports and Harbours

Port Hardy and Port McNeill are the most popular ports on Vancouver Island; both are worthy destinations for day-tripping foot passengers. Each one has its own specific beauty; Port McNeill is a great launching point best-known for sports fishing enthusiasts who want to test their skills in the maze of waterways between Vancouver Island and the mainland. Another one, Port Hardy, which is built along the shores of a natural deep-water harbour, offers breathtaking splendour when the snow-capped peaks of the BC Coastal Mountain Range loom; it is also a gateway that overlooks Queen Charlotte Strait and across to the mainland.

Fish Species in Vancouver Island Ports and Harbours

The waters around Vancouver Island are rich and filled with trophy-sized salmon and halibut and snapper, cod, and more. The gentle currents and rich biodiversity make the island and water around it ideal for all types of saltwater fishing. There are plenty of bodies of water to choose from, and Vancouver Island ports and harbours are among them, offering excellent opportunities for fishing.

Vancouver Island Ports and Harbours Common Questions and Answers