A cluster of low, forested islets at the entrance to Tribune Channel, the Burdwood Group offers a picturesque, midden-fringed anchorage tucked among the rocks - beautiful in settled weather, but exposed when the wind comes up.
The Burdwood Group is a small constellation of islands and islets lying between Broughton and Gilford Islands, at the meeting point of Fife Sound, Tribune Channel, and Penphrase Passage in the heart of the Broughton Archipelago. The group is protected as the 121-hectare Burdwood Group Conservancy, established in 2009 to safeguard its forested islets, kelp beds, and rich shellfish habitat.
Boats tuck in among the islets to anchor over good mud holding, often setting a stern-tie to the rocks when the pocket fills with vessels swinging on the hook. The white-shell midden beaches are the signature draw here, and the maze of low, pointy islands makes the group a favorite of kayakers exploring the archipelago.
This is a fair-weather gem rather than a storm hole. In calm conditions it can be glassy and idyllic, but the open, rock-strewn layout leaves it exposed when wind and seas build through the surrounding channels.
Approach notes, hazards to watch for, and what's available once you're tied up.
Approach is typically made from Fife Sound or Tribune Channel, threading carefully between the islets and rocks. The waters around the group are studded with rocks and jutting points; some older charts have omitted a small islet east of the midden, so navigate visually and keep a current large-scale chart at hand. Many cruisers prefer to go around the group via Raleigh Passage rather than snake directly through it.
Anchoring room is limited and the anchorage is open to wind and chop from several directions, making it suitable for overnighting in settled weather only. Anchor in roughly 10-26 ft (3-8 m) over mud and be prepared to stern-tie to a rock or tree, both to fit the tight space and to limit swinging room near the surrounding reefs.
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 Burdwood Group 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.
