Tribune Channel, a Treasure Trove

Departing Port McNeill, we once again journeyed across Queen Charlotte Strait and wound our way among The Broughton Islands on our way to Kwatsi Bay via Tribune Channel.

Mountains rise steeply along Tribune Channel

Beautiful Lacy Falls on Tribune Channel

Tribune Channel provides some of the most stunning scenery in The Broughtons. Stopping at beautiful Lacy Falls on the north shore is a must. You can nudge the bow of your boat up close for a great view. The water tumbling down the smooth rock slab face, creates a lace-like effect on the water which is mesmerizing.

Entering Watson Cove

Waterfalls in Watson Cove make for a nice anchorage.

Farther northeast is Watson Cove, where several waterfalls tumble through the trees and down the rock cliffs. Anchorage depths in Watson Cove are 50-60 feet; the cove is fairly protected except during westerlies, when the wind blows up Tribune Channel.

One of the treasures of Watson Cove is the 1,000-year-old cedar hidden from view, but a trail shows you the way. We tied the dinghy to a heavy rope, which was attached to a large rusty pin on a flat slab of rock located along the northeast end of the cove. The trail is just inside the tree line. It’s an adventure trekking through the mud and jungle-like vegetation. Although the tree is just a short distance away, you’ll want to wear high boots; we sank into the mud up to our calves.

Continuing east along Tribune Channel, we reached Kwatsi Bay, which is without question the most scenic of the marina destinations among The Broughtons.

Guest Docks at Kwatsi Bay

A true remote, outback destination, the docks at Kwatsi Bay are surrounded by towering mountains and numerous waterfalls. We couldn’t count all the waterfalls, and it was impossible to capture the grandeur by camera. Back in 1998, Max and Anca leased 4-acres of land and opened their docks to visitors, along with a small gift shop.

Happy Hour at Kwatsi Bay

Boaters have been coming here ever since. Their daughter and son are now grown and Max and Anca are empty nesters; they have made the decision to move to Sointula and have put their business up for sale. We hope that someone will be inspired to carry on their legacy. While it remains to be seen what will become of the docks and buildings; anchorage can be taken in the eastern cove of Kwatsi Bay in 50 to 80 feet of water to enjoy the same spectacular views.

Evening Mist at Kwatsi Bay