An easy day on Indian Arm with family and friends
Short hops, swim stops, washrooms within reach and lifejackets in every size. How to plan a relaxed family boat day from Cates Park.
A family day on the water works best with short hops. Kids get restless after forty minutes of driving, and adults do too. Indian Arm puts four good stops within fifteen minutes of each other.
Mornings are calmer
Summer mornings on Indian Arm usually start flat, and the wind tends to build after lunch. Start early for the smoothest ride. The boat is available from 6:00 am, especially with small children or anyone who gets seasick.
A relaxed route
- Swim at Twin Islands while the water is calm.
- Cross to Belcarra Regional Park for a picnic, a beach walk and the washrooms.
- Finish with ice cream in Deep Cove.
On a full day you can add Port Moody and Rocky Point Park in the afternoon, with more ice cream and sheltered water.
Kids on board
We carry lifejackets in child sizes. Tell us the ages when you book and we’ll have the right ones ready. Children wear them the whole time they’re aboard, swimming or not.
Count everyone, babies included, against the 12-person limit.
Swimming with kids
The water is cold. Short swims, one adult in the water with the kids, one adult watching from the boat. Engine off and key out before anyone goes in.
Bring
- Snacks, lunch and plenty of water
- Hats, sunscreen and a warm layer for each person
- Towels and dry clothes
- A small bag for garbage, because the parks are pack-in, pack-out
Book a morning trip for your family day.