Reaching Okeover

Docks at Powell River tucked behind the breakwater along the Strait of Georgia

From Comox we crossed the Strait of Georgia, approximately 20 miles, to the town of Powell River. The seas were relatively calm for a nice crossing. The docks at Powell River’s Westview Harbour remain unchanged, with continued talk about expanding the harbour sometime in the future. We had the pleasure of meeting a couple from Wisconsin moored at the docks on their 27-foot Ranger Tug, which had been transported to the West Coast. As often happens, the subject of flying came up; turns out George is a pilot, who owns home-built experimental aircraft. Of course, you can guess where the conversation went from there.

The beautiful Copeland Islands near Lund BC

From Powell River we continued northwest up the Strait of Georgia, which was flat clam, quite unusual for this body of water.

The Copeland Islands

Reaching the Copeland Islands just north of Lund, we confirmed that stern-tie pins and chains had been installed by BC Parks and the BC Marine Parks Forever Society.

One of several stern-ties found in the Copeland Islands

We saw a few boats anchored in a couple of coves, perhaps unaware of these new stern-ties.

Stern-ties can be difficult to spot as the chains and metal pins blend in with the gray rock outcroppings. Using binoculars helps locate these installations, while scoping out the appropriate depths for your boat.

The yacht, LaPerouse, seen in the distance approaching Okeover docks

After visiting the Copeland Islands, we headed towards Desolation Sound and circled around Sarah Point, heading back south down Okeover Inlet to stay overnight at the Okeover Harbour Authority docks and to enjoy dinner out at the Laughing Oyster. Coincidently, our friend Marc with his beautiful 65-foot yacht, LaPerouse (named after the French explorer of the 1700’s who explored the north Pacific Ocean) also arrived at the docks. Being French himself, Marc feels an emotional connection with this French explorer. We had a great time together sharing photos, stories, and slide presentations. With our upcoming canal trip to France, Marc was pleased to share his knowledge and tips about the Canal du Midi and shared his "MS powerpoint” slide presentation of the French canals.

Got d' Fever and LaPerouse at the Okeover Harbour Authority Docks

We, along with Marc and his two friends, hiked up the road to the Laughing Oyster restaurant, which overlooks the harbour and inlet. The views are fabulous and the food is excellent; it’s not surprising that reservations are a must at this popular restaurant.

The Laughing Oyster Restaurant

The Laughing Oyster offers buffet dinners on certain nights as scheduled; on other nights, you can choose specialty dishes from their menu. The Seafood Buffet is offered every Wednesday year-round; then in the spring and fall, a buffet is offered on Fridays and Sundays, with Sunday being family night.

As it turned out, we were there on a Sunday; nevertheless, the atmosphere felt special with the beautiful views, live music, and linen set tables. The quality of food is excellent and the buffet price is very reasonable. On menu nights, selections include the Barbecued Wild Salmon Filet, lightly spiced and seared on a red-hot grill; Crisp Oysters, baked in butter with a French tartar sauce remoulade with capers and grainy mustard; and the Rack of Lamb roasted with olive oil and French plum sauce. Starters include the Seafood Bisque, a lobster broth with cream and sherry. We recommend the Lemon Semifredo, a lemon soaked sponge cake layered with icy lemon curd, almonds and cream for dessert.

Views from the Laughing Oyster are fabulous