For the past four years, our family (yes, even with kids in school every day) has lived year-round on our boat—on a mooring. Not at a dock. Not at a marina. On a floating home, tied to a buoy, completely off-grid.
Living this way in Canada isn’t exactly mainstream, and it definitely isn’t easy. But for us, it’s been worth it. Here's what it’s really like—the good, the bad, and the cold winter days.
The Pros of Living on a Mooring
It’s Cheaper Than a Dock
Marina moorage rates can be steep, especially if you live aboard full-time. By owning our mooring, we save thousands each year. No monthly dock fees. No electrical hookups. And yes, no property taxes.
Privacy & Peace
No one walks past your windows. No random knock on the hull. You’re surrounded by open water and space. It’s quiet, it’s peaceful, and no one shows up unless invited.
You Trust Your Tackle
When you own the mooring, you know what’s under you. We installed and maintain our own gear, so we know it’ll hold—even in a blow.
360-Degree Ocean Views
You're literally living on the water, not just beside it. Sunrise, sunset, seals, sea birds—it’s hard to beat the ever-changing view.
The Cons of Living on a Mooring (Especially in Winter)
You Have to Be Fully Off-Grid
There’s no plug-in. No dock water. No easy access to anything. You’ll need to handle your power, water, and heat yourself.
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Solar power is great—until winter hits in Canada. Then you’ll
be running the generator regularly, burning through diesel just to keep the batteries charged. - Water needs to be hauled or made with a watermaker.
- Heating? We use diesel and wood, and it's a constant balance in the colder months.
Dinghy Life Isn’t Glamorous
Everything goes in the dinghy—groceries, school backpacks, garbage, you name it. And when the wind is howling or it’s pouring sideways, those trips to shore suck.
Sometimes the bay freezes, and we get stuck onboard for days until the ice clears. Not exactly the school run you imagine.
Shore Access Costs Money
We pay a local marina for dinghy dock space and car parking, and it’s not cheap. You can use a municipal dock, but they don’t let you leave garbage or offer facilities.
You Handle Your Own Waste
There’s no marina bathroom out here—you use the facilities on your boat. That means black water tanks, and those need to be pumped out regularly at a marina. How often depends on the size of your tanks and how many people are onboard.
Judgment From Shore
Some land dwellers see liveaboards as “freeloaders” or people "living for free"—but it’s far from free. Between the fuel, pump-outs, repairs, and shore costs, this lifestyle isn’t cheap. And it’s definitely not easy.
Is It Worth It? Absolutely—If You’re Built for It
Living on a mooring year-round in Canada is a hard life. You have to be tough, resourceful, and ready for whatever nature throws at you. But if you have the right boat, the right attitude, and a love for freedom, it’s one of the most rewarding ways to live.
When we’re ready for a change of scene, we just drop the mooring lines and go. No rent to cancel, no landlord to deal with. Just open water ahead.
It’s not for everyone. But for us, it’s home.
If you're sailing around Cortes Island in the northern Gulf Islands, Mansons Landing is a great stop with a mix of natural beauty, history, and a few handy supplies—if you don’t mind a bit of a walk. We visited in January, and while things were pretty quiet, it turned out to be a great day of exploring.
A Little Bit of History
Mansons Landing is more than just a peaceful anchorage—it’s also one of the oldest settlements on Cortes Island. The original post office opened back in 1893, with Michael Manson (a Shetland Islander and local trader) as postmaster. The name “Mansons Landing” officially stuck around 1950, and the area has served as a steamboat landing, trading post, and hub of island life over the years.
Today, it’s home to Mansons Landing Provincial Park, a protected area with access to Hague Lake, Manson Bay, and a scenic lagoon that's perfect for exploring by dinghy or foot.
Getting Ashore – Dinghy Dock & Trails
There’s a dinghy dock right by the beach, and in January, we had no trouble tying up. From there, we hiked the School-to-Sea Trail through the forest to the co-op grocery store. It’s about a 20 to 30-minute walk uphill, but the trail is gorgeous—peaceful, forested, and easy to follow.
At the top, we grabbed some milk at the co-op (yep, double the price of Victoria) and found out the coffee shop had just closed at 3 PM—so plan accordingly if you're craving a hot drink!
Instead of taking the trail back, we walked the road down, which gave us a nice loop and some different views of the island.
Hiking, Beaches, and Wildlife
Mansons Landing Provincial Park has several easy-grade trails that are perfect for beach walks and exploring the tidal flats. From the parking area near the beach and docks, you can head south through the forest to link up with Beasley Road, or walk the other direction around the lagoon to reach the Hague Lake day use area.
Hague Lake has a white sand beach, an outhouse, and picnic tables—a nice little spot for a break, especially in warmer months when swimming is an option.
Dinghy Ride to the Whale Carving
After our hike and grocery run, we hopped back in the dinghy and headed out for some exploring. We cruised into Mansons Lagoon, which was calm and fun to poke around in. Afterward, we went searching for the famous 9-foot whale carving, hidden in a rock along the beach away from the dock and lagoon.
We found it after a 10-minute dinghy ride—totally worth the effort. It’s one of those cool, quiet surprises you can only find when you’re slowing down and looking for it.
Anchorage & Liveaboards
We saw quite a few liveaboards on moorings around Mansons Landing. It’s a calm, protected spot and easy to see why some people choose to call it home. While anchoring info wasn’t needed for us this time, it's generally well-known as a safe anchorage in good weather, and the area is popular with cruisers during the warmer months.
Final Thoughts
Mansons Landing may be quiet in the winter, but it’s still a beautiful and worthwhile stop. Whether you’re looking to hike, resupply, or just enjoy some calm waters, there’s something special about this corner of Cortes Island. Just be sure to check the seasonal hours if you’re aiming for snacks, coffee, or company!
If you're cruising the Broughton Archipelago, Lacey Falls is one of those places people always talk about. We made the trip there on January 6, 2025, and while it wasn’t quite what we expected, it was still worth the visit.
Leaving Turnbull Cove in the Fog
We started the day in Turnbull Cove. It's a great anchorage with a mud bottom, so holding is solid. It’s also a good spot to leave the boat and explore by dinghy. When we left that morning, the whole area was socked in with fog, which made things interesting.
Quick Drive-By of Sullivan Bay
On the way to Lacey Falls, we pulled into Sullivan Bay. Unfortunately the marina was closed for the season. Remember, we were here in January.
Even though we didn’t stop at Sullivan Bay this time, it’s worth mentioning that it has an interesting history. It started as a fishing outpost and is now a popular marina spot during the summer. The nickname “Little America” fits—it has all the things boaters need, and lots of American boaters spend time there.
Arriving at Lacey Falls
Our plan was to dip the bow of our 78' boat into the waterfall. But since it was January, the water flow was too low. We could see rocks at the base, so getting too close wasn’t safe either so we backed off and just admired the view. The waterfall was still beautiful, though, with different colours of algae growing on the rocks.
Tip: You’ll probably get a better experience if you visit during the spring or after a good rain.
Backtracking to Viner Sound
After Lacey Falls, we headed to Viner Sound. It’s calm, protected, and when we arrived, we were greeted by seven trumpeter swans. Apparently, they winter there. It was a cool way to end the day.
Final Thoughts
Even though we couldn’t dip our bow into Lacey Falls, the trip was still awesome. Between the foggy departure from Turnbull Cove, checking out Sullivan Bay, and the swan-filled sunset at Viner Sound, it was a solid day of cruising. If you're heading through the Broughtons, Lacey Falls is worth a visit—but maybe wait for spring melt.
👉 Check out our other blogs on Turnbull Cove and Viner Sound if you're planning to stop there too!
Thinking of starting your own sailing or travel YouTube channel? You're not alone. With more people choosing to document their lives on the water or on the road, YouTube has become a popular platform for sharing adventures, building communities, and—yes—making some money along the way.
But is it all sunsets and subscribers? Let’s break down the pros and cons of starting your own YouTube channel based on real experience.
The Pros of Starting a Sailing or Travel YouTube Channel
1. It’s Fun to Document Your Adventures
One of the best things about starting a YouTube channel is being able to relive your travels. From epic sailing passages to remote beach hikes, documenting your journey turns those memories into stories you can revisit—and share—with the world.
2. You Can Make Money
Yes, it’s possible to earn an income from your YouTube channel. Once you’re monetized, ad revenue, affiliate marketing, sponsorships, and Patreon can help fund your lifestyle. While it’s not fast money, it’s real money—with real potential.
3. Family & Friends Can Follow Along
Want to keep your loved ones in the loop without typing out endless updates? A YouTube channel gives them a front-row seat to your journey, from boat projects to wildlife encounters.
4. You Can Build a Brand
Starting a YouTube channel is a powerful way to build a personal brand. Whether you're all about boat maintenance, ocean conservation, or family travel, your content can attract an audience that aligns with your values and passions.
5. You’ll Connect with Like-Minded People
One of the most rewarding aspects of YouTube is the community. You'll meet other travelers, sailors, and creators—both online and in person. Sometimes, the comments section becomes its own little support group.
The Cons of Starting a YouTube Channel
1. You’ll Be Judged (Sometimes Harshly)
Putting your life online means opening yourself up to criticism. Some of it will be helpful. Some of it won’t. And if you’re a female creator, sadly, you might get judged even more harshly.
2. It’s a Ton of Work
Filming, editing, writing titles, making thumbnails, managing social media, and learning YouTube’s ever-changing algorithm—it’s not just pressing record. You’ll need to learn a bunch of new skills and spend a lot of time behind a screen.
3. Growth Is Slow (At First)
Most channels don’t blow up overnight. It might take months or even years before you reach monetization or see significant traffic. You’ll need patience, consistency, and a thick skin to keep going. MrBeast suggests that aspiring YouTubers should aim to create and upload at least 100 videos before expecting to see substantial growth or success.
4. It Becomes a Business
Once you start making money, things change. Your adventures become content, and that means scheduling shoots, tracking expenses, and yes—filing taxes. If you're doing this seriously, you'll need to treat it like a business.
5. You’re on a Content Schedule
To keep your audience (and income) growing, you’ll need to post consistently. That means editing videos while anchored in a windy bay, or uploading from a marina when you’d rather be hiking. The flexibility of travel life? It tightens up when the upload deadline looms.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Starting a sailing or travel YouTube channel can be an amazing experience, full of creativity, connection, and opportunities. But it’s also a lot of work, and success takes time, effort, and a willingness to grow thick skin.
If you're passionate about sharing your story and ready to commit to the learning curve, then go for it! Just know that the camera captures the adventure—but also the hustle behind it.
What We Wish We Knew at the BEGINNING:
If we were starting over, the very first thing we’d do is read The YouTube Formula by Derral Eves.
Derral is a powerhouse in the YouTube world—mentor to creators like MrBeast, Jenny Hoyos, and top sailing and travel channels like Adventure Crews and Tread the Globe.
After reading the book, we’d go all in on his Channel Jumpstart mentorship program. It’s intense, but it’s packed with insider knowledge that works.
If you decide to join, tell them Janis Carmena from Onboard Tangaroa sent you—I do get a small reward for referrals, but I only recommend things I truly believe in. And believe me, this program helped us monetize our second channel in just 3 days. It’s a game-changer.
Gorge Harbour on Cortes Island is a stunning and historically rich anchorage along BC’s Inside Passage. Known for its narrow entrance, ancient petroglyphs, and active aquaculture, this well-protected harbour offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and practical convenience for cruisers. We arrived on December 28, 2024, and while the season meant many places were closed, it was still an incredible stop.
Navigating the Entrance to Gorge Harbour
The entrance to Gorge Harbour is narrow but deep, making it a straightforward passage for most boats. We took our 78-foot yacht through without issue, but caution is always key—especially when dealing with currents and the occasional traffic from local boats.
Check out the video we made about Gorge Harbour, Cortes Island. It shows the yacht club, the petroglyphs and the aquaculture farms. It will also show the entrance.
Spotting the First Nations Petroglyphs
As soon as you enter the harbour, look to the left. The ancient petroglyphs are painted in dark red, about 100 feet above the water on the cliff walls. They sit just above a natural ledge, where someone could have once stood to create these remarkable works of art. Finding them takes a keen eye, but it’s a powerful reminder of the deep First Nations history in this area.
Aquaculture in Gorge Harbour
The harbour is home to extensive shellfish farming, with oyster and mussel beds lining the shoreline. The aquaculture industry is a big part of the local economy, so if you’re a fan of fresh seafood, this is a great place to stock up—just check what’s in season!
The Yacht Club & Shoreside Amenities
Gorge Harbour is home to a yacht club, which, during the summer, offers a lively atmosphere with amenities for boaters. While most things were closed during our visit, we still checked out the beautiful grounds, dinghy dock, and a few interesting features:
🚤 Dinghy Dock: Easy access to shore.
🍔 Food Truck & Yurts: Looked like great summer options for those staying longer.
🐶 Dog Rules: If you’re cruising with a dog, note that leashes are required around the yacht club and marina area.
The store was open, which was handy for grabbing last-minute supplies.
Anchoring in Gorge Harbour
We dropped anchor in mud on the southeast corner of the harbour, well away from the moored boats and aquaculture farms. Holding was excellent, and the harbour provided great protection from winter weather.
Dinghy Exploration & Finding the Petroglyphs
After settling in, we took the dinghy back to the entrance of the harbour to get a closer look at the petroglyphs. Finding them took some effort, but they were worth the search. If you visit, take your time and look for reddish markings on the cliff face—they blend in more than you’d expect!
A Great Place for Boat Work
We used Gorge Harbour as a home base while we installed new alternators on our generator. It’s a great place for boat projects, as long as you bring all the parts you need—supplies can be limited, especially in the off-season.
Final Thoughts: A Perfect Stop in the Inside Passage
Whether you’re visiting for the history, the scenery, or the convenience, Gorge Harbour is well worth the stop. The secure anchorage, nearby amenities, and fascinating petroglyphs make it a unique and memorable part of any Inside Passage journey.
Would we return?
Absolutely!
Next time, hopefully in warmer weather so we can enjoy even more of what this beautiful harbour has to offer.
Photo by Judith Williams
Cruising through British Columbia’s Inside Passage or exploring the rugged coastline is an unforgettable experience—but where do you park the boat when the day is done? Whether you’re pulling into a fancy marina, tying up to a mooring buoy, or dropping the hook, each option has its own costs, quirks, and considerations.
Let’s break down the real costs of docking, mooring, and anchoring in BC, so you can plan your stops without blowing your cruising budget.
Docking at Marinas: Pay Up for Convenience
Marinas are like hotels for boats—you get amenities like power, water, showers, and sometimes even laundry. But just like hotels, they come at a price.
In BC marinas, expect to pay anywhere from $1.50 to $4.00 per foot per night for transient moorage. Want a slip for the long haul? Monthly and annual moorage rates vary wildly, but here are some examples:
🛥️ Van Isle Marina (Victoria): $2.75–$4.00 per foot per night, plus utility fees.
⚓ Coal Harbour Marina (Vancouver): Annual slips require a $10,000 refundable deposit (ouch) and a $500 admin fee.
🌊 Thunderbird Marina: Slips start at $3,220 per year for a 20-footer and climb from there.
🚤 Burrard Civic Marina (Vancouver): $14.38–$16.76 per foot per month, depending on boat size.
⛵ Westbay Marine Village: $14.25–$16.50 per foot per month.
Bottom line: If you want shore power and a hot shower, you’ll pay for the privilege. The average is $50/day for shore power and $2 for showers.
Mooring Buoys: The Middle Ground
If you don’t need a full marina but still want to stay put without dropping an anchor, a mooring buoy is a solid choice.
Option 1: Install Your Own Mooring Buoy
Want to set up your own permanent parking spot? You can install a private mooring buoy—as long as you follow federal regulations. However this is a political issue right not in British Columbia and it's like the Wild Wild West. The Bays are filling with moorings due to the housing crisis and sooner or later - it's going to come to a head.
No specific permit is required if you meet the standards, but the installation cost can run from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on:
🔩 Anchor type
🌊 Water depth
⚓ Professional installation fees
Option 2: Rent a Mooring Buoy
Not into DIY? You can rent a buoy instead. Some marine parks in BC offer mooring balls for a small fee, and private owners may rent them out as well. Around southern Vancouver Island, they rent from $150 - $250 per month.
Bottom line: Mooring buoys save you cash compared to marinas, but you’ll still have some costs to consider.
Anchoring: The Free-99 Option (Mostly)
Want to keep your cruising budget as low as possible? Anchoring is free—except when it’s not.
Where You Can Anchor for Free
Legally speaking, you can anchor almost anywhere in BC as long as you:
✅ Don’t block navigation routes
✅ Don’t drop anchor in a sensitive marine area
✅ Make sure your anchor actually holds (because dragging into a docked superyacht would be awkward)
Where You Can’t Anchor for Free
While common law technically allows temporary anchoring, some areas have restrictions. For example:
- Marine parks often have designated mooring buoys (that you have to pay for) and limits on how long you can anchor for. Usually 14 days.
- Certain harbors limit anchoring time (like Deep Cove).
Bottom line: If you love free living, anchoring is the way to go—but make sure you’re allowed to stay before you settle in.
Final Thoughts: What’s Your Best Option?
Need power, showers, and convenience? → Go for a marina (but be ready to fork over some cash).
Want a secure spot without the high fees? → Try a mooring buoy (either rented or DIY).
Love the freedom of the open water? → Drop the hook and anchor for free (just check the local rules first).
No matter how you secure your boat in BC, there’s always a way to make it work within your budget. So whether you’re splurging on a marina spa day or enjoying a free night at anchor, happy cruising!