Turnbull Island Marked Our First Anchorage – North Channel 2019

When we got to Turnbull Island, we were ready to relax –

We left DeTour the morning after we launched the boat without a planned anchorage or any real route in mind for the next three weeks. Sometimes it is just nice to wing it. Jim decided the Turnbull Islands would be our first anchorage in the North Channel. We would revisit our favorite spots all the way to Portage Covered Cove, but we also like to scout out anchorages we’ve only heard about from other cruisers exploring Canada’s pristine cruising grounds.

Good weather and calm water greeted us as we made our way east toward the North Channel’s northeast shore. We still needed to check in with customs and decided Blind River was a good place to take care of that important task. Arriving at about 3:00 pm, we made a quick check-in, I never even got off the boat. Jim and I were ready to anchor somewhere and relax for the rest of the day, so off we went to Turnbull Island, located not very far from Blind River.

Often, at the start of a new cruise, we find the first night on the boat is a time to let down a little from all the activities of planning, packing, cleaning, provisioning, towing, and launching the boat. We also need to make sure all systems are good to go. All the flurry of preparation, in the weeks and days leading up to taking off on the water, can take a toll on us “seasoned” cruisers.

Checking in at Blind River.

Turnbull Island is U-shaped providing protection from all sides.