I have made reservations at the Thunderbird in Port Hardy. Anyone stayed there before? The name doesn't inspire much confidence in a clean room, with a decent location. Sort of reminds me of something downtown that rents by the hour..... Can anyone tell me if I need to cancel or wear raingear to bed after pulling the sheets apart?

I am staying at the quaterdeck. THis is my second trip up last trip was 15 years ago. I cant help you on the motel. I will be their aug. 9 thru the 16th when you going to be their.

August 3rd through 7th. I tried for the quarterdeck, but they were full, they offered a waiting list however. I needed something firm.

I have a friend how goes up to port hardy on buisness (not a fisherman) on occasion and he recomends the quarterdeck or the glen lyon inn. He also said the airport inn (thinks that is the name) is clean and has some kitchenette rooms . It is not real fancy, but nice.

We stayed at the Quarterdeck last spring, Good place and very clean. I know that does not help much, I'd put my name on that list and cancel the t-bird if you get a chance, Unless its a decent place?

elkrun

I've spent quite a bit of time in Hardy over the years, but never stayed in a motel. That bein as it may I have had dealings with these two merchants and think that if you called them and asked their opinion or recommindation you might get a good steer.

P.H. Auto Parts 250 949-6375

Compx Build Supply (Port Hardy) 250 949-6611

I'd take either one of their reccs.

Just a thought.

herm

Several years ago I did an article on Duval Point Lodge at Port Hardy. Nice place just 10 minute boat ride from town. Your own lodge on a cedar float in a protected bay. Eagles in the air and bears on the beach. You bring your own food and do your own cooking. Privacy and close to the best fising around. I know this sounds like an ad, but it really is a great place. So, if you want to spend a few more dollars, check them out. Sorry, don't have the phone number, but it's called Duval Point Lodge.

Thanks for the recommendations for other places to stay, but unfortunately the nice places are all full when I'm going.

Any idea information on the drive up there? distance from victoria, road conditions, driving time? I dont really trust those expedia map things. They say 11 hours from victoria.. does that sound right? It's only around 200 miles, that seems awful slow.

elkrun,

It's 312 miles from Vic. to Port Hardy.

Its a good road all the way. Big time ,north of Nanaimo to Campbell River.

The drive time depends on what your towing, and what your towing with. If your just driving I think you could make it comfortably in 8 hrs.
Last year they were working on the road and it was a real rodeo. To top it off, once I cleared that and got the hammer down a very nice Canadian Constable stopped me and demonstrated just how expensive it is to exceed the speed limit. There is a post office in Hardy to buy a $ order and they write the amount on the ticket so it's not that big of an inconveiniance, and it's only money!

If your going Black Ball Make sure your very early and if your towing and you get the opportunity park on the street on the same side as the ferry. Oh hell you probably know all this anyway, and I'm just ramblin on.

Have a good time and if you need to know anything let me know and I'll try to help.

I'm gonna be up there all of August.

herm

Elkrun...I wouldn't worry about your stay at the Thunderbird. I stayed there a few years back for a night and was pleased with the place. It's definitely not the Edgewater, but it serves its purpose. Like most places in the area, it's an older building, but the sheets are clean and the water is hot. There was even a bald eagle outside our window in one of the trees.

The drive north is a breeze. There are a few decent hills, but it's paved highway all the way to Port Hardy. Port Hardy is about 5.5-6 hours north of Nanaimo providing you stay on the inland highway (w/ 22 ft. boat & trailer). If you decide to take the coastal route it will add an additional hour or so. Fill up your tank (or tanks) before you leave Campbell River as gas stations are scarce, if they are open. Watch out for elk, deer, bear and any other animals along the way, I see them everytime I go. Along with the mountains & lakes it makes for an enjoyable ride. You should enjoy yourself!

Let me know if you have any other questions!

http://www.duvalpointlodge.com/

Here's the link to Duval point lodge. I recommend it. When you wake in the morning your just a couple minutes from the fishing grounds. I am trying to get back up there this summer. I've had nothing but a good time there.. Good luck!!!

Nebb- I've tried Duvall point lodge and they are booked when I can go. Looks like I'm stuck with the Thunderbird. I'll check their cancellation policy and get on the waiting list at one of the nicer ones. If it was just me and the guys the T-Bird would be fine, or the back of my truck even. However, got the wife and kids to think of as well.... anyway, thanks for the info.