Favorite North Channel Anchorages

[BillG72340]

Looking for favorite spots to anchor in the North Channel. We spent 2 weeks there August of 2012 and visited Covered Portage Cove, Mary Ann Cove and spent 1 rough night between the Benjamin Islands. This trip will be the last 2 weeks of June and we expect to find more sweet spots to tuck into. We are starting up the Michigan coast to Presque Isle then crossing into the North Channel thru Mississaga Straight. We plan to spend more time around South Benjamin then Little Current, Baie Fine and the Pool, Killarny, Tobermory and then south along the Canadian shore. We are better prepared for this trip with 2 long stern lines and an extra anchor. I would like to get back into some of the tighter more sheltered anchorages. I've got a couple cruising guides and Active Captain. Any advise is appreciated.

 

[Bresco]

We are planning a similar stop but only one week. I have the Skipper Bob's books, the Waterway Guide book and researched online. Not a lot about "hidden spots" so to speak but anchorages are noted in the Waterway Guide. If that helps. We will miss you by a couple weeks. Landing in that area probably the second week of July. Have a great trip and safe travels.

We have stayed in Tobermory before in Little Boat Harbour. Cute little village there. Although we waited 3 days to get out due to 12 ft waves, we managed to find a quick reprieve and did the entire day on the Lake to Sarnia. That was a long haul but the weather was unpredicable. While in Tobermory you can visit the Grotto, hike the 3 hour trek on the Bruce Trail to Georgian Bay side, and many diving and glass bottom boat tours to see shipwrecks.

 

[Blueone]

You have to go back and do the Benjamin's right.... This is by far the best anchorage. I will find a picture and show you where.

How far are you going down the canadian coast? The list is endless there

 

[RollerCoastr]

I wouldn't be a good friend if I didn't mention Tim in a North Channel thread...

www.timandgina.net

Sounds like a great trip - enjoy!

 

[Our Diversion]

This will be our first trip to the North Channel from June 26th returning home around July 20th. We're planning on stops in Sarnia, Kincardin, then to Killarney. We're going as far west as Gore Bay then back the Canadian way as we'll be picking up and dropping off family and friends in Little Current and Killarney.

We we joined the Great Lakes Cruising Club. They have very detailed harbor (anchorage) reports online for all the Great Lakes including the North Channel. We also have the Ports book for this area.

We we also looked at Tim and Gina's North Channel trip at www.timandgina.net

 

[BillG72340]

I have the Skipper Bob's books, the Waterway Guide book and researched online. Not a lot about "hidden spots" so to speak but anchorages are noted in the Waterway Guide.

I have not seen that one but I will take a look. Thanks

How far are you going down the canadian coast? The list is endless there

From Tobermory we're thinking Goderich or Bayfield. We will clear customs in Port Huron and plan to head on south to Algonac before the long day back to Sandusky.

I wouldn't be a good friend if I didn't mention Tim in a North Channel thread...

www.timandgina.net

RollerCoastr, yes I've been thru Tim's logs multiple times. They are a great resource!

We we joined the Great Lakes Cruising Club. They have very detailed harbor (anchorage) reports online for all the Great Lakes including the North Channel.

What format are the online charts in? Do they have dated comments about the ports and anchorages? We should cross paths at some point. Give us a shout if you see us. (Black Canvas 400DB "Season Ticket III")

 

[Our Diversion]

What format are the online charts in? Do they have dated comments about the ports and anchorages? We should cross paths at some point. Give us a shout if you see us. (Black Canvas 400DB "Season Ticket III")[/QUOTE]

The GLCC provides harbor reports not charts. For example:

[h=3]From Covered Portage to...[/h][h=3]

Killarney (GB-52), 3 miles SE

Snug Harbour (NC-79), 11 miles SW

[/h][h=3]Covered Portage quick reference...[/h]

Type of harbor	superb anchorage	Provisions	none
Location	L 46° 00' N; λ 081° 32' W	Dockage	no
Charts	CHS 2205, 2245	Anchorage	yes
Light List numbers	976-978	Population	cottagers

The harbor report also includes: Approaches, Anchorage, Exploring. There are also excerpts from the chart as well as suggested places to anchor in the harbor.

We'll be sure to keep an eye out for you. Give us a shout if you see us. (340 Sundancer - white with black canvas "After Party")

Kim & Steve