Standing on just about any street on the North Shore, you can see the ocean. No matter what you do or where you’re from, the ocean is a magnet that attracts us all. Looking out from the seawall in Horseshoe Bay at the docks lined with power and sailboats will turn anyone into a dreamer. The North Shore is a popular departure point for those lucky enough to own a boat.Eight marinas and three private yacht clubs are located from Lions Bay to Deep Cove.Nearby islands like Bowen, Keats and Gambier are easily accessed, and have dozens of quiet inlets and bays for picnicking and swimming. Bowen Island is home to Snug Cove, with its own marina and restaurants. Fisherman’s Cove, about three kilometres east on Marine Drive from Horseshoe Bay, seems to be bursting at the seams with hundreds of boats. Access to Howe Sound, the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island is minutes away. Along with docking and storage, most marinas also have yacht dealers, and walking along the docks looking at new and used boats for sale just might lead to that change you’ve been talking about. Taking a boat out from Deep Cove will provide a chance to explore the 22 kilometres of Indian Arm, and across to Belcarra. Seeing Indian Arm from the water will provide some eye-popping scenery, plus some amazing houses perched on mountainsides and accessible only by boat. Not quite living off the grid, but close. Mosquito Creek Marina allows boaters quick access to Burrard Inlet, English Bay and beyond. You may want to get a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. By 2009 this will become mandatory for operators of boats with even small engines. Some marinas also rent small powerboats, and will soon require this card. Many marinas are also used for boat repairs, and will lift boats up to 60 feet in length out of the water and place them in a steel cradle, allowing the owner to do all the necessary maintenance and repairs. A boat out of the water will surprise someone unfamiliar with the sight. On any boat there can be a lot below the waterline. Fin keels, full keels, rudders, propellers, bow thrusters, and trim tabs can’t be seen when the boat is in the water. Most marinas also have mechanics and marine stores on site, so experts and supplies are never too far away. With such easy access to the Strait of Georgia many larger pleasure boats can be out touring for weeks at a time, either going south to the Gulf Islands and San Juan Islands, or north to Desolation Sound and beyond.Looking at boats can be a great way to spend some time. And who knows, maybe the Jimmy Buffett in you will finally take over. Bill Hutchon lives, works and occasionally writes on the North Shore. Copyright North Shore Magazine Issue Dec 07-Jan 08