Pender Island is definitely worth a visit if you are on a Vancouver yacht charter, not just for the rich history of the Islands, but for the great sailing and beautiful scenery surrounding you and the many activities to do onshore. It is known for being one of the most friendly of the Gulf Islands, so you will be guaranteed a warm welcome.
About Pender Island
Pender Island consists of two islands; North and South Pender, but this was only from the early 1900’s when two islands were created when a canal was dredged to allow access between Bedwell Harbour and Port Browning. In 1955 the islands were drawn together again with the construction of a bridge to give access between North and South island.
The Islands have a population of more than 2,500 people, the locals are often referred to as ‘Penders’. There are many services on offer, such as, a bank, grocery stores, pub and a bakery as well as a thriving farmers’ market on Saturdays through the Summer.
There is an award winning winery on the island, as well as a plethora of cafes and bistros to enjoy.
History of Pender Island
The islands were named after Daniel Pender, who was master of the Plumper in 1857. There was a surprising amount of industry on the islands, considering their size, such as a brick making business, a herring saltery, a fertilizer plant as well as many logging activities.
What to do
There are lots of parks on the islands, so definitely worth coming off your Vancouver yacht charter and having an explore on land as the public land is varied and plentiful. Lots of the parks are preserved through the provincial government and Federal initiatives.
So it is definitely worth including a stop at Pender Island on your itinerary for your Vancouver yacht charter this summer.