Tuesday, September 20, 2016
North Channel - Benjamin Islands
The Benjamin Islands are the best-known anchorage spot in the North Channel, for good reasons. There are two islands, North Benjamin and South Benjamin. They are beautiful, solid red and black granite, have hiking opportunities, and have numerous coves for anchoring. The most used, and largest harbor is the area between the two islands. The image above is a view of a small part of that harbor, taken standing on the north end of South Benjamin, facing west, with Last Dance tucked into a small cove.
The smooth granite makes for good hiking and exercise. One area, on a section of pink granite, is called the ski slope due to its steep incline and snow-smooth surface.
A few days were spent in the harbor at the south end of South Benjamin. Depending on wind direction, there are always multiple coves offering protection. The Benjamins are surrounded by many small islands, creating narrow cuts and small coves. It is great kayaking country, or for taking a dinghy on longer explorations. In this image, Bonnie is headed for a walk ashore by kayak.