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Dinghy Dock Floating Marine Pub

(Not Yet Rated)
Dinghy Dock Floating Marine Pub 0:0

Address

# 8 Pirates Lane, Protection Island
Nanaimo , BC V9R 6R1
(250) 753-2373

Review

This prominent and well-known pub floats leisurely in Nanaimo’s harbour. It's a popular favourite among locals, tourists, and visiting yachtsmen.
Photo Credit: Cheryl Oakes
This prominent and well-known pub, with its distinct pale blue roof, floats leisurely in Nanaimo’s harbour. Boats can easily tie up alongside the pub with a connecting walking pier to the shoreline of small, populated Protection Island. A visible landmark in the harbour, this popular pub and restaurant is a favourite among locals, tourists, and visiting yachtsmen.

Open May through to mid October, this energetic, nautically themed pub is packed during the busy summer months. Its popularity is due to the incredibly friendly atmosphere, good service and good food. Seafood and salads are a specialty along with regular pub fare, all moderately priced. A wide selection of beers and ales are available.

The only access to the pub is by boat. The Protection Connection ferry, moored in the downtown Nanaimo boat basin, ferries you across (a 10-minute ride) to the pub and Protection Island. The ferry runs daily, on the hour with the last ferry heading back to Nanaimo at 11 pm. With ample tie-up space, many arrive in their own motor- or paddle-powered boats. For visiting yachtsmen who have dropped anchor in the harbour, many arrive in their dinghies, hence the name of the pub. Shower facilities are available at the Dinghy Dock for boaters.

The pub offers one of the most spectacular views of Nanaimo’s harbour and waterfront as well as views of its neighbouring island, Newcastle, a stone’s throw away. This is definitely not the spot for quiet and solitude as it does get crowded and boisterous, but if looking for a fun time, this is a great destination.
Written By: Cheryl Oakes
On: 7/17/2001

Directions

Protection Connection Ferry- downtown Nanaimo harbour boat basin diagonally across from the Harbour Park Mall on Front Street. Call the ferry at (250) 753-8244.

Features

Over 19 | Beer and Wine | Breakfast | Dinner | Espresso | Full Bar | Lunch | Outdoor seating | Take-Out | Takes Reservations

Map

User Reviews

Crystal Ruel
20rating
(1)
(1)
4/21/2005
First To Review
The pub is open throughout the winter. I just spoke to the owner (April 21st) and she would like you to change the information. Thanks so much!
(0)
(0)
Trish & Bri Oertli
10rating
(1)
(0)
6/4/2007
We have lived aboard our boat by the DDP...we love ther service, food, atmosphere and wednesday night open ike in the winter.
(0)
(0)
Klayton
10rating
(1)
(0)
1/24/2006
We decided to see what the dock had to offer in the winter. We found out on their website www.dinghydockpub.com that they are now open year round. After a chilly ride over, we were greeted with open arms. Several marine sized pints later, we were the only ones on the ferry back. Peaceful and memorable.
(0)
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Ted Simonite
10rating
(1)
(0)
9/11/2005
Surprise, SURPRISE, even amazement ... a unique & impressively maintained restaurant, nautically presented (check out that shining plank and rope flooring) ... "alive" entertainment ... excellent service, food & drinks ...
Why even the restrooms were a treat (see it to understand and agree)... Still reeling from the spectacular sunset over twinkling shoreline lights ... then finished with a romantic boatride back to reality. We want a regular "fix" of this floating-delight. (and, "NO!", we were not drinking heavily)
(0)
(0)
Samantha
10rating
(1)
(0)
7/31/2005

I have gone their several times, & I have enjoyed the atmoshere, the service, & the tasteful, delicious apetizers & dinners ! A great little getaway from the town, & welcomed to the Islands famous pub !
(0)
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