3473 - Active Pass, Porlier Pass & Montague Harbour Nautical Chart

The Master of the Passes: 3473 - Active Pass, Porlier Pass & Montague Harbour

Navigate the most technical and scenic passages of the Southern Gulf Islands with the professional authority of the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS). Chart 3473 is the essential large-scale "road map" for mariners, providing the granular detail required for the high-current transits of Active Pass and Porlier Pass, as well as the tranquil approaches to Montague Harbour.

Precision for High-Tidal Environments

The narrow passes between the Gulf Islands are famous for their powerful tidal rips and heavy commercial ferry traffic. CHS Chart 3473 provides the "ground-truth" data required for safe pilotage:

• High-Resolution Large-Scale Detail: Offers the extreme precision needed to navigate Active Pass, the primary artery for BC Ferries between Vancouver and Victoria, where situational awareness is critical.

• Tidal & Current Identification: Provides accurate bathymetry and seafloor characteristics essential for timing the transits of Porlier Pass (Cowichan Gap) and avoiding hazardous eddies.

• Safe Haven Mapping: Includes detailed coverage of Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park, one of the most popular and secure anchorages in the Salish Sea.

• Hazard & Shoal Marking: Explicitly marks the rocky outcrops, submerged reefs, and navigational aids along the coastlines of Galiano Island, Mayne Island, and Valdes Island.

The Professional Standard for Gulf Island Transit

With the convergence of large commercial vessels and recreational boaters in these narrow channels, the reliability of Chart 3473 is paramount. Whether you are a professional captain, a local sailor, or a kayaker exploring the marine parks, this official CHS chart delivers the accuracy and detail needed to navigate these technical waters with total confidence.