The holidays are around the corner, and while the 12 Days of Christmas may sing about partridges and pear trees, boaters like us would rather unwrap olives, preserves, faux candles, and cozy socks. For those of us who spend time on the water, gifts should be practical, beautiful, and meaningful things that don’t take up much space but bring joy every time they’re used. And what’s better than gifts that are sourced right here in British Columbia? From marina shops to island artisans, here are 12 local spots (some in person, some online) where you’ll find treasures for the boaters in your life.
1. Provisions Marine Store, Crescent Beach
Once a utilitarian shop for fishing tackle and boat parts, Provisions has been lovingly transformed into a stylish boutique at Crescent Beach Marina. You’ll still find the essential boat gear, but now the shelves also sparkle with gourmet preserves, sea-glass-shaped soaps, and gifts that are as elegant as they are useful. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a hostess gift before heading to a dock party.
👉 crescentbeachmarina.com
2. SaltSpring Kitchen Company
A staple in many a galley, SaltSpring Kitchen Co. specializes in small-batch jams, preserves, and hot sauces that are as pretty as they are delicious. From Peach & Sage Jam to Hot Mango Sauce, their jars elevate everything from charcuterie boards to grilled prawns. Tuck one into a gift basket with cheese and crackers, and you’ve got the ultimate nautical nibble.
👉 saltspringkitchen.com
3. The Coast Goods, Vancouver
At The Coast Goods, it’s all about West Coast chic. This Vancouver shop curates a selection of homewares, apparel, and gifts that reflect the region’s natural beauty. Their textiles and décor pieces are boat-friendly yet stylish, making it easy to bring a touch of coastal elegance on board.
👉 thecoastgoods.ca
4. Local Boom, Vancouver
If eco-friendly and Canadian-made matter to you, Local Boom delivers. This socially conscious shop sources 100% Canadian products, from bath and body care to pantry staples and lifestyle items. Every purchase supports small Canadian crafters, making your gift do double duty: delighting the recipient and supporting the community.
👉 localboom.ca
5. Shop Makers, Gastown
Vancouver’s Shop Makers is a collective that showcases the work of local artisans in Gastown. Jewelry, candles, pottery, and prints are all featured here, many of which are one-of-a-kind. For boaters, it’s a treasure trove of small, thoughtful items that add personality without occupying valuable space.
👉 shopmakers.ca
6. The Soap Dispensary, Vancouver
A refill shop with heart, The Soap Dispensary is the place to stock up on eco-friendly cleaning products, bath goods, and zero-waste essentials. Located in Vancouver, on Main Street, their beautifully packaged soaps and refills make practical yet luxurious gifts for boaters who care about keeping their cabins and the ocean clean.
👉 thesoapdispensary.com
7. Salish Sea Market, Bowser
Up the coast on Vancouver Island, Salish Sea Market is a gallery-style shop featuring local artists and craftspeople. From ceramics to paintings to small wooden carvings, every item tells a story of the sea. This is the kind of place where you find a gift that’s not just an object but a keepsake.
👉 salishseamarket.com
8. Unity Clothing & Gift, Sidney
Just a short walk from the Sidney waterfront, Unity Clothing & Gift curates a mix of West Coast–inspired fashion, accessories, and thoughtful home goods. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a cozy scarf, stylish nautical-chic jewelry, or a hostess gift before setting sail to the Gulf Islands.
👉 unityclothing.ca
9. Tofino Soap Company, Tofino
The Tofino Soap Company captures the essence of the wild West Coast in every product they make. Rooted in Tofino, this small-batch, eco-conscious brand blends natural botanicals with pure essential oils to create soaps and lotions that feel as restorative as a walk on Long Beach. Their packaging is minimalist and elegant, making each item as beautiful on your counter as it is kind to your skin. For boaters, their products are a perfect fit, gentle, ocean-friendly, and infused with that unmistakable coastal calm we all crave after a day on the water.
👉 tofinosoapcompany.com
10. Wishbone Specialty Foods, Gifts and Home Decor, Gabriola Island
Tucked inside Gabriola Island’s charming Madrona Marketplace, Wishbone Specialty Foods, Gifts and Home Decor is one of those shops that instantly makes you slow down and browse. The shelves are beautifully curated with artisanal foods, elegant homewares, and thoughtful gifts that reflect the island’s laid-back yet stylish spirit. From gourmet pantry staples to nautical-inspired décor pieces, it’s the kind of place where you’ll find something perfect for a hostess gift or a little treat for your own boat.
👉 wishbonegabriola Facebook Page
11. Harbour Chandler, Nanaimo
In the heart of Nanaimo, Harbour Chandler is a boater’s dream store, equal parts chandlery and outfitter, with everything you need to keep your vessel shipshape. From marine electronics and safety gear to fishing tackle, galley supplies, and even clothing, it’s the kind of place you can wander through for hours, discovering both the essentials and a few unexpected treasures. Their super keen staff know the coastal waters inside and out, making it a trusted stop whether you’re gearing up for a big cruise or just popping in for a part before heading out of the harbour. For boaters cruising Vancouver Island, Harbour Chandler is more than a store; it’s a go-to hub for staying prepared and well-equipped.
👉 harbourchandler.ca
12. Granville Island Public Market, Vancouver
Last but not least, Granville Island Public Market is Vancouver’s most famous artisan hub. From gourmet food vendors to small craft stalls, it’s a feast for the senses. Stock up on charcuterie, fresh bread, and chocolate truffles, then package them together for a gift that tastes like the holidays at sea.
👉 granvilleisland.com
Look for the Island Good Logo
While you’re shopping around the coast, keep an eye out for the Island Good logo. This simple mark tells you the product was made, grown, or crafted locally on Vancouver Island or the Gulf Islands. It’s a quick way to ensure your purchase supports island communities while giving you something truly authentic. From wine to wool to jam, Island Good is your guarantee of shopping close to home.
👉 islandgood.ca
Wrapping It Up
The holidays on the water are about simplicity, coziness, and connection. Boats don’t have room for clutter, which is why consumable luxuries, small artisan treasures, and thoughtful, practical gifts make the most sense. These 12 local shops offer everything from gourmet preserves to eco-friendly soaps; each one is tied to the communities we cruise through. So, this year, support the makers, growers, and dreamers who keep our coast so vibrant. Because the best gifts are not just things, they’re stories, shared experiences, and a little taste of the West Coast.
