Benjamin Islands

Great-Lakes-Sailing.com

Benjamin Islands, ON

Lat: 46° 5.315   Long: 082° 15.206

Quick Reference:

  • Port Type: Anchorage
  • Monitors VHF: n/a
  • Charts: CHS 2207, 2299, 2257
  • Customs: No
  • Coast Guard
  • Transient Docking
  • Anchorage
  • Diesel
  • Gasoline
  • Potable Water
  • Pump Out
  • Washrooms
  • Showers
  • Laundry
  • Repair Services
  • Provisions
  • Pharmacy
  • Hospital/Clinic
  • Banks/ATM
  • Restaurants/Pubs
  • Shopping
  • Internet
  • Amenities
  Important Numbers

Area Coden/a
Emergencyn/a
Police(888) 310-1122
Hospitaln/a
Pharmacyn/a

DISTANCES


Harbor Distance (nm) Harbor Distance (nm)
Spragge, ON 28 W Little Current, ON 17 E
Thessalon, ON 62 W Killarney, ON 37 E
De Tour Village, MI 79 W Tobermory, ON 74 S

DESCRIPTION


The Benjamin Islands are a small group of islands that lie towards the eastern end of the fabulous North Channel. The scenery is spectacular. Sculpted and carved by glaciers, wind and weather, these pink granite islands offer breathtaking views, still quiet nights, star studded skies and the shimmering northern lights. The harbour is formed by the two main islands - North and South Benjamin Islands. It is not isolated though. Most times, you will find a number of boats dotting Benjamin Harbour. But worry not, there is room for all in this picturesqe harbour.

APPROACHES


Benjamin Harbour can be approached from 3 sides. The harbour is lies nestled between the two islands. Channels are not marked and there are no Aids to Navigation. You must pay close attention to your navigation and charting.

From the EAST Benjamin Harbour is open to the east. Approaches are straighforward.

From the NORTHWEST
There is a entrance on the west side, known locally as "the back door". This is a narrow cut between North and South Benjamin Island. This should only be attempted in calm conditions. Although there is good water here, the cut is tight and the rocks close ... and hard. You should have the sun high and behind you and post a bow watch. Pay close attention to your navigation and charts. And, above all, go slowly. Approaching it, be careful to skirt Booth Rocks. The passage is narrow but straight. As you approach the northeast end of the passage, make a sharp (90-100°) turn to starboard and enter the harbour. If weather conditions are not calm or if you feel some uncertainty, use the southern entrance.

From the SOUTH
Hold a course between The Boars and Secretary Island. The water is deep here. Be aware of the rocks southwest of Secretary Island. Once clear of The Boars, a course of approximately 315°T will bring you into the harbour. Pay close attention to your navigation and charts, post a bow watch and, above all, go slowly.

MARINAS, YACHT CLUBS, MOORINGS, ANCHORAGES


Benjamin Harbour is an outstanding anchorage and very popular with sailors cruising the North Channel. It is a good-sized anchorage and offers room for quite a number of boats.

There are also anchor gounds on the south side of South Benjamin Island.

REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE, PROVISIONING, BANKS/ATM's


There are no facilites on the islands.

MEDICAL SERVICES


There are no medical facilities on the islands.

PLACES TO EAT


n/a

THINGS TO DO/SEE/VISIT


The attraction of the Benjamin Islands is simply the sheer natural beauty of the area. Pink granite islands against a cobalt sky, floating on saphire blue waters make an unforgetable sight. The islands can be easily climbed for stunning views. Once could spend several enjoyable hours kayaking or exploring around them by dinghy. And, after a morning's climb, what could be more refreshing than a dip in the cool, clear waters.

Return from Benjamin Islands ON to the North Channel

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