One of the best anchorages anywhere, at least in the opinion of the Last Dance crew, is Thomas Bay. It is one of the last anchorages in Georgian Bay traveling west toward the beginning of the North Channel at Killarney. Thoughts of not posting about this anchorage were considered to keep this anchorage from becoming popular, and thus, crowded. But, there is too much beauty here to share.
A closer view of the chart illustrates why most cruisers do not attempt to enter Thomas Bay - the many, many rocks between deep water and this tiny bay. There are no makers or buoys in the area and no depths charted in the bay. It is totally incumbent on the mariner to find, or maybe better stated to not find, the rocks. Many who cruise Georgian Bay and North Channel find a rock or two, which keeps the boatyards in Little Current busy in the summers.
The mainland side of the bay has pink granite rock ledges creating a gorgeous view and great protection from winds and fetch while at anchor.
Although the rock surrounding the bay is quite steep and a challenging climb, there are spots along the edges at slight angles providing for easy dinghy landing. This view shows the low island across the end of the bay creating 360 degrees of protection.
The view from the boat is simply stunning.
The view can be entertaining at times, also. This otter knocked against the hull of Last Dance early one morning. Then after some fishing, went ashore to preen. He seemed to be performing for the crew in the water and on the rocks.
One afternoon, a juvenile black bear wandered along the shore in his search for blueberries.
The loons, most often seen alone, fished by Last Dance. These uniquely marked birds have multiple calls, different when in the water and on land, that could be described as eerie and beautiful at the same time.
The land around Thomas Bay is part of a large Provincial Park, allowing cruisers access to the land surrounding the bay. It provides good hiking, although this area does not have developed trials. Hiking where there are no trails is more challenging in both climbing and orienteering. Beautiful and amazing views continue to change as one ascends and winds around the hills.
