Crazy, Lazy Days of Summer

Refuge Cove with the General Store and a Cafe

From Mansons Landing on Cortes Island, we made our way to one of the busiest marinas in Desolation Sound, Refuge Cove on West Redonda Island.  Boats come from nearby anchorages to get a bite to eat at the café, fill up with gas or diesel, and shop in the historic Refuge Cove General Store.  The marina’s 4-hour courtesy tie-up policy means that boats are constantly coming and going throughout the day; it’s good business for the store and fuel dock.  All sorts of watercraft show up here, from classic wooden boats to modern fiberglass boats of all makes and sizes. 

A separate float for additional moorage

With so many boats, one might be concerned about finding space at the docks but it’s only a short wait before space opens up. In addition to the docks near the store, a 70-foot detached float is also available for short-term 4-hour stays and for overnight stays; moorage payments are made at the store. 

Views from the Cafe are great, including the people watching

While Refuge Cove is a bustle of activity, it’s also a place to just relax and people watch.  The café above the marina has a great view of the harbour and the food is great. 

A band entertains marina guests 

Live music takes place in the evenings as scheduled throughout the summer months.  When we were at Refuge Cove, the marina was entertained by a group of 9 musicians and vocalists who sounded great and caught everyone’s attention, turning the evening into a fun affair. 

People come from all around to shop at the General Store

The focal point of Refuge Cove is the historic general store. 

The Refuge General Store has been in business for nearly a century with numerous owners through the years.  During a deep recession that followed World War I, business owner Donley had gone bankrupt, then Jack Tindall stepped in.  Jack arrived with a lease for the store, the store keys, and eleven dollars in his pocket.  He built up the business into a thriving store. 

The Whimsical Telephone Booth

His dance hall behind the store attracted people from as far away as Owen Bay in Okisollo Channel.  Tindall sold the store around 1945 to Norman and Doris Hope.  In 1972, a co-op, consisting of 18 share holders living within the property, purchased the 186 acres which includes the store and other buildings. 

The Cafe and Gift Shop

The commercial area is leased to businesses whose owners are all members of the co-op.  Despite the short summer season, the marina and businesses appear to be doing well.