Elegant vs Casual



Big Bay Scenery

 

This morning we departed Denham Bay and transited Dent Rapids at slack.  The weather was clear for picture taking so we made a couple of stops in Big Bay just south of Dent Rapids.  Stops included the public Stuart Island Community Dock, and the high-end Dent Island Lodge.  While the Community Dock is attractive and homey, Dent Island Lodge is elegant and intimate.  Both places are enjoyable and we found happy boaters at both locations.  

Stuart Island Community Docks

The Community Dock has a lovely outdoor covered seating area and a small store with snack items and gifts.  The large lawn overlooking the docks and views of Big Bay is like being at home on your front porch.  Boaters often overnight here to time their transit through Dent Rapids and Yuculta Rapids while enjoying the company of other boaters.  

Stuart Island Community Dock Store and Patio

Docking can sometimes be a challenge at the Stuart Island Community Dock when the current is running.  As we approached the docks, it was clear we were being swept sideways away from our finger pier.  Other boaters on the docks came over to help with our lines and commented that they too had been swept sideways.  A good reminder that if you are entering or leaving Big Bay docks in anything other than slack water, be cautions off the end of piers and inside slips and fairways.  After a quick bite to eat, we headed out with the dinghy to visit Dent Island Lodge for picture taking.  This meant negotiating strong tidal currents with upwells and whirlpools through Barber Passage before reaching Dent Island.  

Taking the Dinghy through Barber Passage Rapids

It was an e-ticket ride in the dinghy, zipping through the boiling rapids just like the jet boat tour operators.  

Dent Island Lodge

Docks at Dent Island Lodge

We arrived at Dent Island Lodge and were warmly greeted at the dock, where they were expecting our arrival.  We noted that the yacht, Sans Souci, belonging to Ken Williams, was at the docks.  He and his wife invented/created the early version of electronic gaming, and more recently authored “The Great Siberian Sushi Run” in which they share their experience of crossing the Gulf of Alaska, cruising the Aleutian Chain, and down to Japan.  Yes, Dent Island Lodge is a luxury resort with moorage and dinner prices to match, but you will find all size boats here who want to treat themselves to a special experience or celebrate on a special occasion.  

Dent Island guest viewing Canoe Rapids

Located on a tiny treed island, Dent Island Lodge has everything you would expect in a high-end retreat - guided jet boat excursions, an exercise room, hot tub, and dining areas both indoor and outdoor serving quality meals.  

Lovely outdoor bar at Dent Island Lodge

The beautiful outdoor bar with dinner service overlooks Canoe Pass, where tidal currents churn along the west side of the island past rocks and trees.  The cedar, lodge-style buildings in addition to bridges and pathways, create a cozy retreat feel.  We enjoyed our visit to this special place, took photos, and met some interesting folks as we departed by dinghy back to the mother-ship.  One of the many pleasures of boating is the variety of public docks, marinas and resorts, each offering their own unique setting and character; we recommend taking several seasons to experience them all.