Travel directions to Stones Boatyard

Our centrally located boatyard in Nanaimo, on Vancouver Island is just a short trip from Victoria BC , Comox, Courtenay and Campbell River, the Sunshine Coast, Metro Vancouver and the rest of Vancouver Island.

We are readily accessible from Vancouver and Seattle by ferry or a short flight by seaplane as well as regular aircraft.  And of course we’re at the head of the Gulf Islands enabling easy access to some of the most spectacular cruising in the world.

If you’re not coming by boat you have several options:

• A scheduled flight (20 minutes) from the Vancouver International Airport to Nanaimo Airport.
• Several float plane services from either the Vancouver Airport or downtown Vancouver to the Nanaimo Harbour and Departure Bay dock. Visit Westcoastair.com or Harbourair.com and from Vancouver Airport to Nanaimo only: Seairseaplanes.com
• A  seaplane service between Seattle-Lake Union and Lake Washington terminals (Washington State) and Nanaimo. Kenmoreair.com
• The M/V Coho is a passenger and vehicle ferry from Port Angeles, Washington to Victoria – it is then a very picturesque hour and a half drive from Victoria to Nanaimo. Cohoferry.com
• Regular (18 per day) ferry departures (car and passenger) from both Tsawwassen (nearest to the airport and the US border) to Duke Point, Nanaimo or from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver to Departure Bay, Nanaimo. BCferries.com

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Tide Knowledge for Boaters

Tides are the result of the interaction of gravitation pull between the earth, the moon and the sun. If you’ve done any boating in this part of the world you will know that knowing what is going on with the tides is critical to planning a successful trip. Tides are one of the essential areas of knowledge for boaters. Know your tides or risk getting your boat stuck in the mud or damaged by rocks.

Tide times and heights can vary throughout the month so you can be easily caught out if you haven’t checked them. A passage may have plenty of water one day and then on the next at the same time may be quite different.  Tides can be accurately predicted up to a year in advance and tide tables are widely available both online and in print.

Do you know your vessel’s draft? It’s a good idea to make a permanent note of the draft somewhere near the helm so there is no confusion for whoever is driving the boat.

What you need to know about tides from Nanaimo:

• Check a tide table before going out on the water.
• Learn how the tide affects your boating environment, especially channels and water levels. Be aware of your surroundings and the tide’s direction.
• Learn how to read which way the tidal current is moving in the water.

Just a tide table on its own isn’t enough information. You will still need the relevant chart and don’t be shy about asking for local knowledge.  A good example of where tide information alone isn’t sufficient is for example if the tide moves through a small channel where the surge of water will cause much rougher conditions. For some channels in British Columbia, tidal changes make the water so fast-moving you will need to plan your passage completely around the direction of the tidal flow. The opposite of too much water is too little, and so if the tide is going out of course you will want to be aware of when your boat could be grounded but also if there are any large rocks or other large sunken objects which need to be avoided.

The scenery from Nanaimo is spectacular and as part of owning a boat, you will want to spend time ashore exploring.  Before you jump into your tender to go ashore check the tides. The coast can appear to be a vast natural playground but the tide can come in quickly and then not only does your walking back to your dinghy become wading through water, but more worryingly you could find that the surge of water through narrow channels makes getting your dinghy back to the boat a real problem. Our coastline of steep cliffs may also mean going inland is not an option.

If you’re already out on the water it is easy enough to work out what is happening with the tides especially if you are close to the coast.  If you look at the water and the shore the tidal current is visible as the water flowing in towards or ebbing away from the land. It looks like the ocean is chasing itself onto or away from the shore.

Interesting (geeky) Tide Facts

• Currents created by incoming and outgoing tides can be dangerous for swimmers.
• The Astronomer Seleucus of Seleucia was the first scientist to identify that tides were caused by the moon in 150 BC.
• The moon is the most relevant factor in the creation of tides (the sun’s gravitational force on the earth is less than half of the moon).
• The most dramatic tides happen at the times of the new moon and the full moon.
• In most geographical areas, because of the movement of the moon and sun, tide changes happen twice per day so the time between high and low tides is around 6 hours.
• The wavelength of a tidal wave is around 12,430 miles.
• The tidal cycle 24 hours and 50 minutes.
• Some of the highest tides in the world are in Nova Scotia, in the Bay of Fundy, with a difference of about 53 feet between high and low tide.
• Spring and neap tides – the moon exerts the largest influence on tides but when the sun and moon are aligned (during a full or new moon) the sun enhances the moon’s gravitational pull creating higher tides than usual. These are called spring tides and they have the greatest depth range between high and low water. Neap tides have less variation so there is less change in water height.

As always at Nanaimo Boatyard and Chandlery we are always happy to share our knowledge about everything to do with boating and enjoying the local area. Please do talk to us.

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Yacht Care & Management

We offer all our customers a range of boat care programs to suit their needs including guardianage, boat care  and winter dry boat storage, as well as yacht management.

BOAT CARE AND GUARDIANAGE

Our boat guardianage service ensures a boat owner is able to return to his boat to find it just as he left it or often in better order. We are able to look after almost any type of craft. During the off season we offer ashore storage and provide the necessary boat care and maintenance.

• Safety and security of your boat
• Peace of mind, knowing someone is caring for your boa
• Local knowledge
• Support of the most experienced boat service team in Nanaimo.

Our guardianage services:

• Inspection of mooring and stern lines
• Checking of shore power and battery charging
• Regular checks for leaks and airing (especially after bad weather)
• Periodically checking the bilges and engine, and carrying out snow removal if necessary
• Checking/securing of all covers and tarps
• Regular running of engines and other machinery
• Stowing and securing all deck equipment, sails
• Cleaning of decks and interiors
• Charging of batteries
• Cleaning/washing of deck prior the arrival of owner/guests

YACHT MANAGEMENT

Our yacht management programme, through our sister company Nanaimo Yacht Charters & Sailing School, can dramatically reduce the cost of owning or buying a new yacht. You can take advantage of our charter management program which offers 80% of the charter revenue on all new, current year, boats joining our yacht partnership program. This allows us to maximize your enjoyment of owning a boat, whilst reducing the costs of yacht ownership.

For more information click through to Nanaimo Yacht Charters Yacht Management information on their website

We are a service orientated business with a long history of customer satisfaction, located in BC on Vancouver Island, one of the fastest growing cruising areas of Canada – a sure combination for success.

Contact us now to discover more and obtain more information.

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Outboard Engine Care

The weather is just right, it’s the start of the season, everyone is keen to get out on the water and then once you’ve loaded up your tender you find out the outboard won’t start. Time to get out the oars and rowlocks or do you give up and go home?  Outboard Engine Care is just another area where a bit of planning makes all the difference.

Outboard Engine Care are fairly simple and even if you’re not a mechanic some day to day maintenance can go a long way to keeping your outboard engine in a reliable condition. 

At the end of each trip or vacation:

1. Flush (clean) out the engine:
   • Outboard Engines with a flushing port:
     • Remove the cap from the flushing port and attach your garden hose (if the boat is in the water tilt the engine up so the saltwater drains out.
     • Turn on the water and let it run for at least 5 minutes. Do not start the engine.
     • Remove the hose and put the cap on.
   • Outboard Engines without a flushing port:
     • Attach a pair of earmuffs to the hose and slide over the water outflow.
     • Turn on the water, start the engine and let the engine run for 5 minutes. Make sure water is coming out of the outflow tube.
     • Turn the engine off, turn off the water and remove the earmuffs from the hose.
2. Whilst flushing the engine have a look at the water pump. You want to see it has a strong flow of water. If there is a weak flow of water then check to see if there is anything stuck in the outflow tube.  Turn the engine off and then use a loop of wire to go round the outflow tube to clear anything. If you start the engine again and find the water flow is still weak then you may need a new water pump. Whilst the engine is running also check the heat of the water; the water should be warm but not hot. If the water is hot then the engine needs to be looked at by an experienced mechanic.
3. Burn off all the dirty fuel in the carburettor. Disconnect the fuel line and then allow the engine to run for a few minutes.
4. Check for leaks. Once you have flushed the engine and run the engine out of fuel disconnect the battery, take the engine cowling off and check for fuel or water leaks. If there are any leaks it probably time to call in a mechanic.
5. Protect the engine. Whilst you have the cowling off wipe the engine with water and then spray with an anti-corrosive (e.g. WD40).
6. Cover up. Once work is completed put the cowling back on and keep a canvas or plastic cover on the engine.

Other areas to maintain:

It’s always a good to look over your outboard for anything that looks unusual and may require attention.  Typical areas where outboards need maintenance are:

1. The fuel line. Any cracks or worn areas?
2. The fuel primer bulb. Any cracks, soft and pliable to use?
3. Fuel tanks. Any damage or corrosion?
4. Tank vent. Vent is clear and not damaged?

At Nanaimo Boatyard we provide routine servicing, repairs and installations. We work with all types of recreational engines using original manufacturer parts.  Contact us via our website, or pop in and see us.

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Guide to Boating During the Covid-19 Crisis

Boating safety is always—always—a critical consideration whenever you push off the dock, but with all the recent issues regarding COVID-19, many people are wondering if boating is considered a safe social distancing practice. For safety please see on below for Guide to Boating During the Covid-19 Crisis.

MAINTAIN THE All IMPORTANT SOCIAL DISTANCE

Stay at least two metres from others. (No joining up boats together, no dock parties.)

KEEP YOUR BOAT IN GREAT CONDITION

Before leaving the dock it’s even more important than in normal times to ensure your boat is in good order. If you need emergency services save it for an emergency that could not be avoided.

Before you leave the dock ensure you have everything you need for your journey to reduce the number of times you need to stop for supplies. As with all shopping for supplies it is best to pay online or over the phone.

RESPECT LOCAL PEOPLE

Double check the local  covid safety rules before you moor up or go ashore. Of course, ideally you simply stay on your boat.  It’s all about the continual challenge of financially supporting the local community whilst keeping everyone covid safe.

DON’T CROSS THE BORDER!

The Canada-US border is currently closed to non-essential traffic.

Come and talk to us or check our servicing, repairs and installations.

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Boat Maintenance Tips 2

I’m writing this in the summer so all these maintenance tips are selected for fair weather conditions.

Varnishing

Longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures mean more time in the day to varnish and for it to dry before the temperature drops.

Running Rigging Checks

Running rigging refers to all the equipment (ropes etc.) involved in raising, lowering and controlling the sails. By the middle of the summer, you’ll know what is working and what needs some attention. Check through your rigging for any failing splices, sheaves are running smoothly and any other adjustments that could be made to reduce friction and make sailing easier.

Deck Gear

This is a pleasant afternoon job. Check all your sheaves are running smoothly, your winches are serviced and the windlass is working as it should. If you’ve ever been on a boat when deck gear fails you will understand how important a little regular maintenance is.

Each piece of equipment will have its own servicing list.

Standing Rigging

Standing rigging refers to the fixed lines, wires and rods which support masts and bowsprits. In extremely bad maintenance situations, the mast could come down! What is more likely though is the boat’s performance will be affected by the rigging requiring adjustments. A correctly rigged boat will be easier to steer and faster too.

Safety Equipment

If you ever need the safety equipment, you are going to be extremely glad it is all in good working order. Of course, it is especially important if you are planning to do longer passages away from the shore. The usual maintenance needs are replacing lifebuoy lights, lifejackets with faulty inflation cylinders and old, unreliable fire extinguishers.

Come and talk to us or find out more about Boat Maintenance Tips

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Boat Maintenance Tips

Some of the common questions we receive at Nanaimo Boatyard. More maintenance tips to follow! Read and learn.

How do I clean black streaks on my hull?

There are specialist black streak remover products, but after a while, they strip off the wax and then the water streaks become even more prominent and difficult to remove. If you have a good layer of wax on your boat then the best thing is to stick with boat soap. The popular choice is to use the black streak remover, but as soon as it becomes harder to clean then apply cleaner wax to the area. This way you won’t need to wax the whole boat so often and you will have an easier job cleaning off the black streaks.

Do I always need to clean the salt off my boat?

Sun on a salty boat can result in salty water spots into the gel coat and your glass or plastic windows. Salt can also start to rust stainless steel.

Before you leave your boat even just a few minutes hosing the windows and hull can make a difference but it’s not really enough. For boat health, you need to wash your boat with boat soap or a recommended boat cleaner. Be thorough and don’t just stop at the gel coat, clean all the deck, glass and stainless steel. If you have time wipe down all the windows until they’re dry.

Can I use a pressure washer on my boat?

It is very tempting to use a pressure washer. It’s a fast way of removing black mould, green mildew and more, but you are also removing any wax that is left on your gel coat and it won’t improve the gel coat’s condition for waxing. Pressure washing can remove fittings, easily ruin teak and on a coloured hull or topside can make the colour uneven. Elbow grease is, unfortunately, the answer with boat soap and soft brushes.

How do I know my boat needs some tender loving care?

The first thing people notice is that the boat has become dull and less shiny. This happens because the gel coat has started to oxidize and there isn’t any wax protecting the gel coat from UV rays. You may also notice black specs. These specs are mould and they won’t come off easily.

Once a boat is heavily oxidised no amount of boat soap is going to bring it back to its former glory. Boat detailing companies use power buffers with a rubbing compound and then polish to seal the gel coat and a good coat of wax to help protect it further.

To keep your boat on track the answer is regular maintenance:

• Wash your boat every month.
• Deep clean the interior at the start and finish of each season.
• Wax the hull every year and wax the topsides twice a year.
• Clean the decks and canvas with mildew spray and then treat the canvas with a product to prevent mildew.
• If you have teak decks wash them as often as the rest of the boat and then use a specific cleaner once a year to remove any grease and dirt.
  
  Come and talk to us or check our servicing, repairs and installations

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Marine Engine Repair and Plumbing Maintenance Nanaimo

We provide routine servicing, repairs and installations.

Typical engine repairs and installations we deliver are:

• Engine repairs, tune-ups, rebuilds and re-powering of inboards & outboards, both diesel and gas engines
• Marine transmission alignments, repairs and rebuilds
• Shaft, strut and propeller repairs & PSS dripless shaft seal installs, anode and cutless bearing changes
• Servicing of coolers and heat exchangers
• Oil sampling and testing
• Exhaust system replacements
• Installation of all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems
• Electronic & electrical installation and upgrades
• Propane stove and system checks
• Bow thruster installation

Other typical types of work are:

• Plumbing
• Fibreglass work to repair, for example hull blisters and gelcoat chips
• Window re-bedding and leak fixing
• Mast/rigging/ furling gear inspections and tuning
• Maintenance of inflatable dinghies and paddleboards

Please contact us to discuss your individual requirements. 

Beneteau Parts: For all Beneteau sail and power boats

Electromaax Marine Charging Solutions:

Espar Marine Heaters:  

Gill boating foul weather gear and clothing:

Interlux Paint:  

Jeanneau Parts: For all Jeanneau sail and power boats

Kohler Marine Generators:

Lagoon Catamaran Parts: For Lagoon Catamarans 380, 380S2, 39, 400, 410, 410S2, 420, 421, 440, 450 and Lagoon Power 43 & 44

Life Cell Marine Safety:

Planar Marine Heaters:

Ports and Passes:

PSS Shaft Seals:

Swing-lift Outboard Motor Hoist:

Webasto Marine heaters:

Yanmar Marine Engines:

ZF Marine transmissions:

Come and talk to us about our storage options or find out more about Marine Engine Repair and Plumbing Maintenance Nanaimo

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