A long, narrow, completely landlocked inlet on the northwest end of Cortes Island, Von Donop Inlet (Hathayim Marine Provincial Park) is one of Desolation Sound's most protected all-weather anchorages.
Cutting nearly two miles into the northwest end of Cortes Island, Von Donop Inlet is a hook-shaped, hill-rimmed fjord that ranks among the best all-weather holes in the Desolation Sound area. The surrounding old-growth forest, a saltwater lagoon, and quiet coves give the inlet a remote, wilderness feel even when a dozen boats are tucked in for the night.
Most cruisers carry on to the head (south end) of the inlet, the most enclosed and popular spot, where mud holding is excellent and protection is complete in any wind. From there a trail crosses the island to Squirrel Cove, with its general store and public dock a short dinghy ride and walk away.
Hathayim Marine Provincial Park surrounds the inlet, protecting forest, estuary, and shoreline. Wilderness camping, kayaking, swimming in warm summer water, and trails to a small lagoon make it a destination as much as an overnight stop.
Approach notes, hazards to watch for, and what's available once you're tied up.
Von Donop is entered from northern Sutil Channel via a long, narrow, shallow entrance channel. The principal hazard is a rock that sits roughly mid-channel, covering close to two-thirds of the channel width, charted with about 0.6 m (under 2 ft) over it at zero tide; sailboats hit it most seasons. The deeper water lies to the west of this rock, but do not hug the western shore too closely at the northern entrance, where a shoal juts out. Avoid the eastern shore entirely.
There is appreciable current through the entrance pinch on a flooding or ebbing tide. Enter slowly on a rising tide, favoring the west of the mid-channel rock, then proceed up the inlet, which deepens out and is clear. Shoaling occurs toward the head, so set the hook before the flats. Charts: CHS 3538.
Wind protection summary and tide planning at a glance. Full per-direction and 7-day detail with Plus.
Live readings from the nearest OpenWeather station and WorldTides; refreshed every few minutes.
Source: OpenWeather One Call API + WorldTides.
A curated photo + map walkthrough showing approach, mooring options, and points of interest.
A guided walkthrough of Von Donop Inlet with approach photos, depth notes, and points of interest — written by members who have been here recently.
Real first-hand reports and questions answered by members who have actually been here.
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Cruising-distance picks near this anchorage.
