Navigating the Names and Boundaries of the Waters Between Mainland BC and Vancouver Island

The body of water between Mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island is known by several different names, depending on the context and the perspective from which it is viewed. Historically, it has been referred to using terms such as Strait of Georgia, Gulf of Georgia, and Hecate Strait, among others. However, in recent years, a new name has gained popularity: the Salish Sea.

The Strait of Georgia or the Salish Sea?

Strait of Georgia:
Officially, the body of water is known as the Strait of Georgia. This name is frequently used by maritime professionals, official maps, and nautical charts issued by the Canadian Hydrographic Service. It is a straightforward and widely recognized term for the body of water that separates Vancouver Island from the mainland.

Salish Sea:
The term Salish Sea encompasses a larger geographical area and is a more comprehensive name that includes Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, and the waters off Vancouver Island. It was coined in the late 20th century to acknowledge the cultural and ecological importance of the region. While this name is gaining popularity in tourism and environmental circles, it is less commonly used by local residents and boaters.

The Historical Context of Names

Historically, the water body was also known as the Gulf of Georgia. However, this term was deemed inappropriate by cartographers due to the fact that the body of water has an opening at both ends, which is characteristic of a strait rather than a gulf. The name Hecate Strait, located further north, also appears in the historical records. Hecate Strait is a different body of water located between mainland British Columbia and the Queen Charlottes Islands.

Local Perspectives on Navigational Names

For local coastal boaters, the water body is often simply referred to as The Gulf. For instance, a passage through the Strait of Georgia might be described as, "We crossed the Gulf this morning to Nanaimo. It was snotty as hell," as noted in a nautical logbook. The term The Gulf also applies to other gulf features in the region.

The Strait of Georgia and Its Subdivisions

The Strait of Georgia is further subdivided into various segments that have their own names.

North of Campbell River:
The central part of the Strait of Georgia is sometimes referred to as Discovery Passage, which narrows as it passes through Seymour Narrows. Seymour Narrows is the site of the infamous Ripple Rock, an underwater obstacle that was dynamited in 1958 to improve marine traffic flow.

Further North:
North of Campbell River, the Strait of Georgia diminishes and becomes Discovery Passage, named after Captain George Vancouver's exploration of the area.

And Beyond:
Northward, the body of water takes on a narrower form and is referred to as Hecate Strait, which is a distinct body of water located between the Queen Charlottes Islands and the mainland. This area is not part of the Strait of Georgia.

It is clear that the naming of these bodies of water can be complex and varied, depending on geographical location and the context in which the name is used.

Key Takeaways:

Strait of Georgia: Official name recognized by maritime professionals and nautical charts. Salish Sea: Comprehensive name for the larger geographical area including Puget Sound, San Juan Islands, and Vancouver Island. Hecate Strait: A different body of water located further north, off the Queen Charlottes Islands.

Exploring the waterways of the Georgia Strait and the Salish Sea requires an understanding of the local nomenclature to ensure safe navigation and accurate communication.

Conclusion

The body of water between Mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island is a vital and complex part of the Canadian coast. The names and definitions of these waters reflect the rich history, cultural significance, and ecological importance of the region. Whether referred to as the Strait of Georgia, the Salish Sea, or simply The Gulf, these bodies of water play a crucial role in the maritime activities and the stewardship of the environment in the Pacific Northwest.