Bay of Fundy
By Thom Perkins
My first foray into the big waters beyond the international border of Maine and Canada was 35 years ago. Since then, during a dozen trips into the Bay of Fundy environs, I have explored a number of harbors, coves and tickles along the New Brunswick and Nova Scotia coast. I still consider myself to have only touched the surface of possible destinations. While it takes planning and determination, the Bay of Fundy is an extraordinary cruising ground with friendly locals, breathtaking sights and interesting secure destinations. This information will concentrate on Grand Manan and Passamaquoddy Bay area.
General Information – Tides are large and one plans passages to take maximum advantage of the resulting current. If you are going to wander into those waters, 20 – 30 foot tides are the rule. You will encounter 3 – 9 knot currents depending on time of tide and location plus you will likely have a bit of fog. Make sure you have your radar reflector in the rigging. The navigation requires a bit of attention but if you’re used to Maine it’s not a difficult learning curve. I accept that any voyage of this length will see its share of weather. I have seen fog and rain and I have seen crystal clear blue-sky days. There are storm protected harbors to hide in if the going gets nautical. Make sure you bring warm clothing.Â
Keep an eye on your navigation. You will know when you leave US waters as there are no more lobster pots to worry about.
You’ll need a long anchor rode to accommodate the large tides beyond Cutler. I frequently anchor with our 125’ chain rode. However, I carry a 250’ line for anchoring when needed. An anchorage with a depth of 20’ at low will become 45’to 50’ at high. 5:1 equals a 250’ rode. Since you will find yourself alone in most anchorages, swing room is not an issue. That said, I do try to find shallower depths for anchoring.
Every time I head up into the wonders of the Bay of Fundy, I stop in at Little River – Cutler Harbor as a comfortable last U.S. stop. It’s a fairly easy day trip from either Roque or Cow’s Yard (For recommendations on harbors on the way to Cutler see: https://www.sailingthecoastofmaine.com/p/favorite-harbors.html. Cutler provides a restful night in a good, interesting harbor before heading towards the border. Be aware of the back eddy tide rip south of the entrance of the harbor. Stand off into the bay as you approach the harbor until you are abeam the entrance, otherwise you will be bucking the tide in class 3 whitewater. Anchor in good holding mud or ask at the lobster dock about the guest mooring. You will find the fishermen are very friendly. There is fuel available at the lobster wharf and maybe water but not much else except good lobster. Wifi access can be found at the town library just uphill. There are interesting and scenic walking paths fairly close to the landing beach/launch ramp. Walk the road towards the bay and you will come across the trailhead.
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