ADDRESS
Anchor Way
Pender Island, BC
HOURS
Open Year Round
CONTACT
(250) 360-3000
Capital Regional District
AMENITIES
Picnic Facilities, Restrooms
Thieves Bay Marina is located on Swanson Channel in the Southern Gulf Islands. Thieves Bay is in the heart of the southern resident orca range. During summer months, orcas may swim close to the breakwater, making the vista point next to the marina one of the best orca-watching spots in the region. The vista point is also popular for sunset and storm watching.
WHERE THE WHALES ARE
In the spring and summer, look for the distinctive dorsal fins of killer whales (orcas). Both resident and Bigg’s (transient) orcas are common sights in these waters. Resident pods eat fish, and strongly prefer salmon, while Bigg’s killer whales eat marine mammals. The blows of humpback whales can be seen, and often heard, from spring through fall. Playful harbour seals are common around the docks all year.
WHICH ANIMALS YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE
NATURAL HISTORY
The Gulf and San Juan Islands of the Salish Sea are part of a remarkable archipelago of rocky islands, shallow bays, reefs and deep canyons that support the world’s smallest and largest marine creatures. These waters are used by marine animals for feeding, breeding, resting, overwintering and migrating to areas north and south.
TRAVEL TIPS
Due to the narrow access road that is also used by an ambulance, the public must park in the designated parking lot or along the shoulder of the road to the east of the telephone booth. Do not drive down the marina access road unless you are a marina member loading your boat (30 minute limit).