Tantalized by Turnbull Cove
Stunning views from the rocky point at the entrance to Turnbull Cove.
And it is an excellent anchorage, broad, with good depths and holding in mud, and with lots of room to deploy generous scope as long as not too many other boats are trying to squeeze in. If it is crazy busy, there are also spots in the bay with convenient shore access where you can fasten a stern line.
There is good protection from northwest winds, though the bay is open to the southeast. According to Sailing Directions, “winds in a SE gale circle the cove in full force.” Keep an eye on WX forecasts.
On a recent visit, it had been a while since we had had a proper bath, so the first thing to do was to hike up the steep trail to Huaskin Lake with a towel and bar of soap. The one-kilometre trail takes about 20 minutes each way. From the floating dock you can swim in the cool, dark lake waters.
Cleaning up in the cool, clean freshwater of Huaskin Lake.
The real adventurous (and fit) will tote an inflatable kayak to explore the massive lake. From the floating dock, the lovely view north includes only a small portion of this amazing lake.
Drying off, refreshed, thoughts turn to food. Perhaps one of the most delightful evenings is spent with friends at the rocky point on the northern shore of the narrow entrance into Turnbull Cove. Build a fire to roast hotdogs or whatever you fancy, and take in the glorious views all around.
Roasting limpets over hot coals.
Here on the point is a plaque, placed in memory of a man, woman and child who died “suddenly” in 1991. It reads: Love is immortal, and makes all things immortal”.
Not knowing their story, just that they must have spent time here on the point, in this place that is borderline remote, made us feel special to be there, to share this place with them, as the evening light changes, dramatically tranforming the landscapes as if viewed through a twisting kaleidoscope.
In the right weather, the cove is one of the most beautiful, most relaxed and most enjoyable anchorages in this part of the world.
