Peter Guitzmyer wrote:

How good/bad is sailing from Vancouver to Alaska via the inside
passage?

Years ago I lived in Bella Bella or Waglisla as known by those who live
there (about half way between Vancouver and Prince Rupert)so I can give
you an indication as to what to expect. I don't want to discourage you
from making the trip because it's incredible. But there are things you
really need to know about. You haven't stated as to your experience so
please forgive me for writing in the most general terms.

For starters I hope you have a lot of experience with tides,
charts and navigation. I strongly recommend the most detailed charts you
can find. There are rocks that play havoc with the hulls of the
inexperienced. There are coves everywhere that you can anchor in but
your charts will let you know which ones will keep you upright. The
scenery is unbelievable, be sure to have a camera and camcorder because
there are things you'll see that you'll want to keep for all times. It's
that amazing. Whales including Orcas', seals, eagles, porpoise and
otters are some of the wildlife you'll see in abundance. Ferries and
coastal freighters make the trip all the time so the passage is good.
But one rock will seriously dampen your spirits. And trust me there are
lots of them. The tides will dictate the number of hazards you'll face
if you stray from the channel. While living in Waglisla I made several
trips between Vancouver and Prince Rupert. Never had a problem except
catching a really bad storm crossing the Queen Charlotte Sound once. Not
an experience I ever want to revisit. Weather reports are one of your
must have tools. Constantly monitor those reports. GPS and a backup is
critical, detailed charts and safety equipment are an absolute must.
Radar and a depth sounder again a must. Remember freighters and ferries
run up and down the coast and the very real possibility of being run
over by one of them exists if they can't pick you up on their radar at
night. Not wise to run the Inside at night anyway. If your an
experienced sailor it will be an incredible experience. If you haven't
had a lot of experience with tides and navigation it would be wise to
rethink making the trip until you've had a chance to acquire it. If your
in the Vancouver / Seattle areas it might be a thought to visit the
local marinas and seek out people who have made the trip up the coast.
Trust me anyone who has made the trip would love to have the chance to
tell you all about their run up the coast. Their experiences and advice
would be well worth taking into account. Something else you may want to
consider is having someone who has made the trip look at your boat and
advise on any needed changes or additions you may want to consider. As
with any coastline there are a lot of hazards but with the right
equipment, experience and planning it will be memorable.
Good Luck and Good Sailing.