Pender Harbour Delights



John Henry's Marina & Resort, Pender Harbour

Colorful Charm and John Henry's

Retracing our steps, we departed Sechelt Inlet via Sechelt Rapids and then south down Agamemnon Channel and entered Pender Harbour on the west side of Sechelt Peninsula.  A collection of multiple bays and coves make up this large Harbour offering several marinas, public wharfs, and various areas for anchoring.  Mark Bunzel, owner and editor of the Waggoner Cruising Guide, arrived at John Henry’s Marina in Pender Harbour; we were looking forward to joining the group at their evening dinner meeting.  We found John Henry’s Marina & Resort to be a delight; the new owners have refurbished the store and added a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating.  Warm colors chosen for the buildings, picnic tables, and lawn chairs create a special charm, and the grounds are nicely kept.  

Boats of the Waggoner Flotilla docked at John Henry's

The store is much improved from what we remembered in years past, modern shelving for food stuffs and displays for gift items make John Henry’s a convenient and pleasant stop.  Joining the flotilla group for dinner at John Henry’s restaurant was a real treat.  The flotilla is made up of both sail and power vessels of various makes and sizes.  Everyone seemed enthusiastic about their adventure and appreciated Mark’s help and expertise.  Mark presented a weather briefing and gave the schedule for departure; they would be departing at 18:00 the following morning for Prideaux Haven, a seven-hour journey.  We would continue our travels to other destinations for photos and research.  

Docks below the Grasshopper Pub

While in Pender Harbour, we learned that The Grasshopper Pub is a local’s favorite and so we motored the dinghy over to their docks to check it out.  The Grasshopper Pub is located inside the Pender Harbour Hotel which also owns a small marina for permanent moorage; however, visitors may moor their dinghy or small craft at the docks while dining at the Pub.  

A steep climb by foot or car to the Grasshopper Pub

The only challenge is hiking the very steep road to the top of the hill where the hotel sits perched high above the Harbour.  We were told it was quite steep and it’s definitely true, my face was nearly plastered against the pavement; the road is at least a 40 percent grade. 

Great Views from the Grasshopper Pub

If you aren’t up for this kind of punishment, you can simply call The Grasshopper Pub (604-883-9013) about 10 minutes prior to your arrival, and they will come pick you up by car at their docks.  It’s worth the trip, the views are fabulous and the food is very satisfying. 

Sunshine Coast Resort

After lunch, we motored next door to visit the Sunshine Coast Resort, tucked in a cove at the northeast corner of Pender Harbour.  The marina offers transient moorage and the lodge is accessed by a set of stairs through decks and gardens.  

Sunshine Coast Resort Marina, a lovely spot

Guests may make use of the hot tub and other facilities.  This resort has a very peaceful appeal and is a good choice if you just want to relax.