Boat Camping Haida Gwaii: A Small-Vessel Guide to the Queen Charlotte Islands

Neil Frazer’s guide for boaters visiting the Queen Charlotte Islands
begins with a warning: the waters of Haida Gwaii can be unpredictable
and mariners are often far from help. An experienced boater himself,
Frazer draws on his own travels in the area, as well as the advice and
input from other kayakers and small-motorboat users, to offer a wealth
of information intended to keep area boaters safe, well-informed, and
entertained.

After an introduction that includes getting to the Queen Charlottes, a
general description of what to expect in different areas, and an
explanation of how best to use the book, the bulk of the guide is
organized by cruising area. Each of eight chapters focuses on a
particular area (e.g., Skidegate Channel or the Kunghit Island area) and
includes sketches (with references to Canadian Hydrographic Charts),
photographs, and a detailed text. The illustrations have been created
with kayakers and small-boat operators in mind and clearly indicate the
location of camping spots, beaches, submerged rocks, amenities, and
points of interest.

The text is well organized and includes not only practical information
about approaches and landings, but also historical information,
anecdotes from those who have traveled these waters, and suggestions for
nearby places to visit and explore.

Black-and-white photographs throughout further enhance this attractive
and useful volume. Several appendixes include information about bear
safety, tides and currents, Canada Customs, useful addresses, and a
comprehensive annotated bibliography for those looking for additional
information. A detailed index makes it easy to find hundreds of specific
subjects covered in this well-planned guide to some of the most
spectacular waters in the world. Don’t head for Haida Gwaii without
it!