Announcements

David Mitchell

As summer draws to a close and we settle into the quieter rhythm of the shoulder season, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the many milestones Bluewater Cruising Association members have achieved in their cruising journeys. Preparing for offshore adventures takes dedication, and one of the most inspiring motivators is celebrating those who have […]

Editor’s note: many Currents readers, including myself, have enjoyed spending time in Prideaux Haven and so may be interested in this news item shared by BC Parks Foundation.  News Release: September 18, 2025 Vancouver, BC – Boaters, kayakers and other donors have [until September 29] to raise funds to purchase 100 acres of waterfront in Desolation […]

Marilyn Sanford

As the Bluewater Cruising Association launches its 2026 Fleets, it’s a great time to welcome both returning and new members of the Vancouver Fleet. Our mission remains as it has for decades: to build knowledge, share experiences, and foster community among sailors who plan to cruise locally and offshore. But this year, there are a […]

Nancy Carlman

After strong contrary winds prevented the originally planned ceremony to release Stephen’s ashes at sea last August 12—Stephen Carlman’s 82nd birthday—his ashes were finally committed to the ocean on Thursday, August 21, in a voyage of remembrance and ritual. Chris Boulsbee, his wife Marilyn, and I motored Kingfisher, their Fisher 30-foot pilothouse sailboat, from Gabriola […]

Marilyn Sanford

Every September, BCA members across Vancouver Island, Calgary, and the Lower Mainland come together to form their respective Chapter Fleets—communities of sailors preparing to head offshore in the coming year or soon thereafter, sail around Vancouver Island or head up the coast, exploring and venturing into new territories. Fleets meet monthly (sometimes more often), with […]

Don’t miss this free Wednesday night seminar series focused on cruising in Coastal BC, hosted by Voyage Makers Coastal Adventures Ltd. Enjoy lively evening discussions now through September about skill-building, seamanship and exploring the region. Learn from expert anglers, safety gear experts and take home tips about where to find the freshest local cuisine and […]

There is no preparation for going offshore quite like being offshore! Each year VICE (Vancouver Island Cruising Experience) provides an opportunity for a group of BCA members to undertake a short offshore voyage in their own boat that gives a sense of what sailing offshore is all about. Read on to learn about this year’s […]

K. Barrie Letts

The Vancouver Island Chapter hosted the first BCA rendezvous of 2025 at Telegraph Harbour Marina, Thetis Island May 17-19.  In attendance were 66 members, associates and guests, 52 of whom participated in the optional Sunday Dinner. Friday The weather Friday evening forced the early arrivals dock party onto various boats. Knot 2 Krazy had a peak […]

The WOW! Women on Water 2025 meeting was held on April 12, at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney. This venue was wonderful for the event – only 10 minutes from the Swartz Bay Ferry. We started early so we could take advantage of the free parking. Later in the day, there was entertainment provided […]

Barb Peck

It has been a long-standing practice that Currents rewards its authors. Any Bluewater Cruising member who writes articles for Currents can receive credits toward their annual membership fee. I am pleased to announce that the incentives for writing have been increased in several ways. Key Changes Members can now accumulate up to $90 of credit toward […]

Stephen Carlman, former Vice Commodore for the Vancouver Chapter, died suddenly on February 19, 2025, of cardiac arrest caused by a severe gastrointestinal bleed. He joined BCA first in 1979 after attending a rendezvous at Newcastle Island in his Contessa 32’ Akvavit. All the attendees gathered on the Tremblays’ boat just before they left to […]

Do You Have Expired Marine Flares? Flares manufactured in 2021 or earlier expire this year (2025), as Transport Canada approves them for four years. They should be replaced every third or fourth boating season.  To dispose of expired flares, do not light them, throw them overboard, or add them to household garbage. Transport Canada no longer […]