25th: We left Ganges around 10:00 this morning to blue sky & low 60's. Our neighbor across the dock offered to help us get out by holding one of our midship lines & I watched our fenders on the "raft" side. Everything went smoothly as usual as Captain Rod knew exactly how to get us out of there. Our "rafted side" neighbor never did show up so they must moor their boat there.
We arrived at Henry at 12:30. We visited with other boaters, had some lunch & then started getting ready to put the dinghy down before another boat came in next to us (have to drop the dinghy on the starboard side of the boat). Before we got very far, another Grand Banks started coming in next to us. Unfortunately too late to put down the dinghy so we're hoping they'll leave tomorrow so we can go over to Roche tomorrow as we won't be going anywhere now ):
26th: Got up to sunshine so staying 1 more day & then it looks like the weather is changing so we'll head home Tuesday. Unfortunately the people next to us are still here so the dinghy can't come down. No trips to Roche this time. The rain actually came right around dinner time - fortunately Rod had just finished barbequing our burgers. This has been a great boating trip for us with lots of memorable times. Now it's back to Shelter Bay, getting ready for the Sucia end of summer cruise & then finishing up the move from Seattle to La Conner.
Monday, August 26, 2013
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Aug. 24th - Ganges
This morning we went to the Farmers Market around 9:00. We ran into both of the "Broughton" couples we saw at dinner last night. As we were visiting, I saw a guy who looked so familiar. It turned out it was Steve Immerman, both a surgeon & a glass artist whom we know through Pilchuk & Steve Klein. We have one of his glass pieces in La Conner. He was on Saltspring Island visiting another artist for a week. He lives in Eau Claire, Wisconsin so we did not expect to see him here with his family - 3 generations.
We bought some wonderful flavored goat cheese - 3 varieties from Saltspring Island Cheese which is an amazing company. We got lemon, tapenade & truffle...yum! They kept them in a cooler while we went to Mouats, a wonderful boating & hardware store in Ganges. We ran into some SYC boaters there - it's amazing how many boaters you see repeatedly when you're out for a couple of months. When we went back to the market it was packed with shoppers so we were glad we'd gone earlier in the morning. Then a stop at Sara's Buns - a great bakery & breakfast & lunch spot. We had a late breakfast & then wandered back to the boat, stopping on the way to get some squaw candy (hard smoked salmon) at the fish market by the marina.
Our Broughton friends came by this afternoon to invite us to a gallery opening in town so we met them for the 5:00pm reception. It was interesting but not our type of art - we did enjoy talking to the artist. After that we went with our 2 Broughton couples & another Canadian couple that they knew for a little dinner. Then back to the boat to feed the cat.
Tomorrow we head to Henry Island (by Roche). We'll be back to Shelter Bay Monday or Tuesday, depending on the weather. It's been in the high 50's-low 60's today, with sprinkles on & off although the evening was very nice.
We bought some wonderful flavored goat cheese - 3 varieties from Saltspring Island Cheese which is an amazing company. We got lemon, tapenade & truffle...yum! They kept them in a cooler while we went to Mouats, a wonderful boating & hardware store in Ganges. We ran into some SYC boaters there - it's amazing how many boaters you see repeatedly when you're out for a couple of months. When we went back to the market it was packed with shoppers so we were glad we'd gone earlier in the morning. Then a stop at Sara's Buns - a great bakery & breakfast & lunch spot. We had a late breakfast & then wandered back to the boat, stopping on the way to get some squaw candy (hard smoked salmon) at the fish market by the marina.
Our Broughton friends came by this afternoon to invite us to a gallery opening in town so we met them for the 5:00pm reception. It was interesting but not our type of art - we did enjoy talking to the artist. After that we went with our 2 Broughton couples & another Canadian couple that they knew for a little dinner. Then back to the boat to feed the cat.
Tomorrow we head to Henry Island (by Roche). We'll be back to Shelter Bay Monday or Tuesday, depending on the weather. It's been in the high 50's-low 60's today, with sprinkles on & off although the evening was very nice.
Friday, August 23, 2013
Aug. 23rd - Ganges
We left Ovens Island around 11:30 - lazy morning, Rod visiting with cousin Steve before they took off & then another solo boater. It was in the 70's already, with partial clouds & blue sky. Cruising on the flybridge again - awesome...and then, 22 knot winds! Didn't take long for both of us to head down to the salon!!!
We arrived at Ganges Marina about 2:15. They put us on the breakwater as the boat in our assigned spot decided to stay another day & the office person forgot to tell the dock master. The marina was full as tomorrow is the Farmers' Market which is very popular. That is not a good spot to stay at as any current or wind makes the boat move around a lot.
Fortunately after a short while, they came to say we could move, although into a spot that did not have much room for 2 boats if one is our size. Rod went to check it out & came back to say we would move. The slip is VERY narrow but Rod managed to wedge us in with help from 2 dock hands. Fortunately, the boat next to us left fenders out on our side & were not there. It would have been difficult to watch!!! We added a couple more fenders - can't wait to see the reaction from our neighbors when they return although we're not sure they're actually on the boat.
We went to Calvin's for dinner - not too far from the marina. Ran into 2 couples we met in the Broughton's. They're here for the farmers market too so may see them tomorrow again.
We arrived at Ganges Marina about 2:15. They put us on the breakwater as the boat in our assigned spot decided to stay another day & the office person forgot to tell the dock master. The marina was full as tomorrow is the Farmers' Market which is very popular. That is not a good spot to stay at as any current or wind makes the boat move around a lot.
Fortunately after a short while, they came to say we could move, although into a spot that did not have much room for 2 boats if one is our size. Rod went to check it out & came back to say we would move. The slip is VERY narrow but Rod managed to wedge us in with help from 2 dock hands. Fortunately, the boat next to us left fenders out on our side & were not there. It would have been difficult to watch!!! We added a couple more fenders - can't wait to see the reaction from our neighbors when they return although we're not sure they're actually on the boat.
We went to Calvin's for dinner - not too far from the marina. Ran into 2 couples we met in the Broughton's. They're here for the farmers market too so may see them tomorrow again.
Ganges Marina
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| We are NOT rafted. There just isn't very much room in the slip. |
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| Lady Lynn moored in a slip at the Ganges Marina |
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| View toward the breakwater at Ganges Marina |
Aug. 21st/22nd - Pender Harbor/Ovens Island (SYC outstations)
21st: Left this morning about 6:30am, headed to Pender Harbor. Another beautiful day - very little wind so a very smooth crossing of Malaspina Strait & up on the flybridge driving by 9:30. Arrived at noon. It got up to 84' today - quite warm but lovely!!! By evening it was close to 90' in the boat so we put the air conditioning on for the first time to see if it worked & it did! Used to cool down the salon a little & then off it went.
22nd: We left Pender at 7:00am with 3 boats ahead of us from SYC. The winds are forecasted to pick up tomorrow & change directions so today is definitely a better choice. Sunny again but still in the low 60's when we left. Was smooth in the Georgia Straits to start & then we got into the trough & it got a little bumpier, but not bad - wind from .6-11 knots. It was up in the high 80's again today. Ovens Island (in the Dunsmuir Islands in Sibell Bay, Ladysmith Harbor) is a great spot-no electricity or water but some great walking paths & picnic tables. There were only 5 boats here tonight but we still had a small happy hour with appetizers.
One of them was another cousin of mine (this is my summer for cousin reunions!) - first cousin, his dad was my mother's brother. I grew up with Steve when we lived in Tacoma, although he was 10+ years older than me. Rod actually was one of his sponsors when he joined SYC. His generator stopped working so after happy hour the guys moved his boat back by us in case he needed to use our newly installed "buddy hookup" to our generator (which we did use, by the way, when we were rafted so people could alternate using their generators). However, after much time, supervision from Rod & others, an impellor was replaced & the generator was working again. Dinner turned into cereal for Rod & leftover corned beef for me...way too late to cook!
22nd: We left Pender at 7:00am with 3 boats ahead of us from SYC. The winds are forecasted to pick up tomorrow & change directions so today is definitely a better choice. Sunny again but still in the low 60's when we left. Was smooth in the Georgia Straits to start & then we got into the trough & it got a little bumpier, but not bad - wind from .6-11 knots. It was up in the high 80's again today. Ovens Island (in the Dunsmuir Islands in Sibell Bay, Ladysmith Harbor) is a great spot-no electricity or water but some great walking paths & picnic tables. There were only 5 boats here tonight but we still had a small happy hour with appetizers.
One of them was another cousin of mine (this is my summer for cousin reunions!) - first cousin, his dad was my mother's brother. I grew up with Steve when we lived in Tacoma, although he was 10+ years older than me. Rod actually was one of his sponsors when he joined SYC. His generator stopped working so after happy hour the guys moved his boat back by us in case he needed to use our newly installed "buddy hookup" to our generator (which we did use, by the way, when we were rafted so people could alternate using their generators). However, after much time, supervision from Rod & others, an impellor was replaced & the generator was working again. Dinner turned into cereal for Rod & leftover corned beef for me...way too late to cook!
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Aya and Lynn kayaking in Desolation Sound Marine Park
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| Aya poses while Lynn watches |
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| Lynn in her kayak |
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| Entrance to Desolation Sound Marine Park |
Aug. 19-20th: Back to Cortes
19th - Had a leisurely morning after being up late 2 nights in a row. Left Prideaux Haven around 1:30, mid 70's & sun, some clouds but high cumulus. Got to the outstation around 3:00. Definitely fewer boats here now as the summer is winding down. Aya & I walked up to the top of the hill to see the amazing view & then they started getting ready to be picked up by Kenmore Air who came at 5:45. Shortly after they were gone, one of the boaters who had just come in across the dock from us brought out some appetizers & 8 of us stood around visiting for awhile. Then back to the boat for dinner.
20th - Woke up to blue sky & sun (not sure why our guests had to leave for this to happen)! It was cool (in the high 50's) but beautiful. Today was laundry day & clean up before we start heading south. Got up to mid 70's today. Only 5 boats at the outstation by the end of the day. I think 4 planes came in today dropping off & taking people away.
Once it cooled off & the sun started to set, a couple a dock away came out with 2 cats on leashes & walked them along the dock. I talked to them & got the scoop on the leashes & the walking. They were both rescue cats, one is young & the other is almost 16 years old. The halters are designed for cats & the woman told me how she trained them (took about 2-1/2 weeks). They're indoor cats & this is how they get their exercise - quite a sight!
20th - Woke up to blue sky & sun (not sure why our guests had to leave for this to happen)! It was cool (in the high 50's) but beautiful. Today was laundry day & clean up before we start heading south. Got up to mid 70's today. Only 5 boats at the outstation by the end of the day. I think 4 planes came in today dropping off & taking people away.
Once it cooled off & the sun started to set, a couple a dock away came out with 2 cats on leashes & walked them along the dock. I talked to them & got the scoop on the leashes & the walking. They were both rescue cats, one is young & the other is almost 16 years old. The halters are designed for cats & the woman told me how she trained them (took about 2-1/2 weeks). They're indoor cats & this is how they get their exercise - quite a sight!
Monday, August 19, 2013
Aug. 18th - Prideaux Haven
This morning Aya & I went for a kayak ride - her first. We went to visit Robin (ballet friend) & set up a time for our cocktail happy hour with her - 5:30, her boat. She's providing oysters & clams; we'll take brie cheese, crackers & a pitcher of margaritas. Rod & Drew came by in the dinghy & we eventually joined them over at our friends, Jon & Lois's raft, to visit for awhile.
Then back to the Lady Lynn for lunch & showers. Note to self: do not do 4 showers in a short period of time & be the last person in...very cold shower, no hot water left as we're at anchor, generator not on. Then we started another round of Mexican Train with some cocktailing to get us into the mood -to be finished after dinner.
On our way to Robin's we stopped at "the raft" to say goodbye to everyone. Robin's oysters & clams were amazing & she also had a wonderful lemon soft cheese from Saltspring Island. Great visit-got back about 7:30 so Rod did a little prep for dinner, went for a dinghy ride.
Then back to the Lady Lynn for skewers of prawns (caught by friend Harv in the raft) with sausage & smoked salmon from Jon. A wonderful menu of shell fish!!! Then...our game. Up until almost 1:00am this time.
Then back to the Lady Lynn for lunch & showers. Note to self: do not do 4 showers in a short period of time & be the last person in...very cold shower, no hot water left as we're at anchor, generator not on. Then we started another round of Mexican Train with some cocktailing to get us into the mood -to be finished after dinner.
On our way to Robin's we stopped at "the raft" to say goodbye to everyone. Robin's oysters & clams were amazing & she also had a wonderful lemon soft cheese from Saltspring Island. Great visit-got back about 7:30 so Rod did a little prep for dinner, went for a dinghy ride.
Then back to the Lady Lynn for skewers of prawns (caught by friend Harv in the raft) with sausage & smoked salmon from Jon. A wonderful menu of shell fish!!! Then...our game. Up until almost 1:00am this time.
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Aug. 17th - Prideaux Haven
After coffee this morning at Cortes, Aya & I went for a walk & I showed her around the yacht club outstation. We spent some time walking along the beach & eventually went back to get some oysters for dinner. A friend from the ballet board, Diane Kuenster, was on one of our boats & we went over to say hello to her as well. Around 11:30 we headed for Prideaux Haven & ended up anchoring there rather than by Scobel Island where our "raft friends" are.
Lunch came next & then dinghy & kayaks went down. Aya, Rod & I went for a dinghy ride while Drew was on a business call. We showed her around the area & then went over to see our raft buddies - now 4 boats, had been up to 8 while we were gone. Jon & Lois have friends on their boat too & the ladies were on their way out on their kayaks so we just visited on the water. Will go back tomorrow. As we were coming back, we ran into Drew in 1 of our kayaks - note: he hadn't kayaked in a Hobie before, only been in a regular kayak once about 30 years ago. He found a paddle in the lazarette but didn't know about the rest of the apparatus. No seat, no pedals, no rudder down...pretty funny but he was doing great!
Back to the boat (now the cocktail hour), margaritas were made & we sat up on the "Lido Deck." Sun & blue sky, with some clouds still but in the mid 70's. Eventually we had half of our oysters for dinner with salad, also on the Lido Deck. The small ones Aya & I ate raw & Rod barbequed the larger ones...yum!!! The last of our blue berry pie from Barbara (the baker on Cortes) for dessert.
Eventually, after the sun went down, we moved into the salon & commenced a game of Mexican Train. We even goaded Rod (totally not a game player!) to play with us. We finally went to bed at midnight after playing a full game (from a double 12 dice to a double zero, for those who play the game).
Got an email from another ballet board friend, Robin Gainey, who also is up here on her boat (53' Fleming that she single hands most of the summer up here). We're going to get together with her today too.
Lunch came next & then dinghy & kayaks went down. Aya, Rod & I went for a dinghy ride while Drew was on a business call. We showed her around the area & then went over to see our raft buddies - now 4 boats, had been up to 8 while we were gone. Jon & Lois have friends on their boat too & the ladies were on their way out on their kayaks so we just visited on the water. Will go back tomorrow. As we were coming back, we ran into Drew in 1 of our kayaks - note: he hadn't kayaked in a Hobie before, only been in a regular kayak once about 30 years ago. He found a paddle in the lazarette but didn't know about the rest of the apparatus. No seat, no pedals, no rudder down...pretty funny but he was doing great!
Back to the boat (now the cocktail hour), margaritas were made & we sat up on the "Lido Deck." Sun & blue sky, with some clouds still but in the mid 70's. Eventually we had half of our oysters for dinner with salad, also on the Lido Deck. The small ones Aya & I ate raw & Rod barbequed the larger ones...yum!!! The last of our blue berry pie from Barbara (the baker on Cortes) for dessert.
Eventually, after the sun went down, we moved into the salon & commenced a game of Mexican Train. We even goaded Rod (totally not a game player!) to play with us. We finally went to bed at midnight after playing a full game (from a double 12 dice to a double zero, for those who play the game).
Got an email from another ballet board friend, Robin Gainey, who also is up here on her boat (53' Fleming that she single hands most of the summer up here). We're going to get together with her today too.
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Cortes Bay and Prideaux Haven Desolation Sound
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| Lady Lynn and Dale Henley's "Steadfast" |
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| Dale Henley at Cortes SYC Outstation |
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| Nancy Henley tries a Hobie |
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| Oyster's for dinner |
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| Aya & Lynn after gathering oysters |
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| Prideaux Haven in Desolation Sound |
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| Lynn at Prideaux Haven |
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| Aya at Prideaux Haven |
Aug. 16th - Cortes
It poured almost none stop today & there was quite a bit of wind, so the outstation is full to the point of rafting boats. Everyone is trying to come in for shelter & the dock. Poor Aya & Drew are flying in this - they're really going to be wondering why they came & why we do this ):
We put the kayaks up, filled the boat with water & Rod did several maintenance things as it was not conducive to being outside! I finished cleaning the boat, getting our guest's stateroom ready for them & getting things marinated for dinner tonight. Mr. Cat's things moved back to our room yesterday & he's still readjusting.
Aya & Drew landed about 4:45 - good flight, apparently it was sunny in Seattle when they left. Still was cloudy & muggy here as the rain had just stopped a little before they arrived. We had a great evening visiting. Ate some of Jon's smoked salmon for appetizers & then had a great bottle of red wine (which they brought) with dinner. Rod scored cigars from Dale for he & Drew to smoke. I told them to go to Dale's boat (: They didn't get used as it was too late after dinner...but maybe in the morning before we go???? Otherwise it will be the Lido deck for the boys!
A lot of boats came in yesterday due to weather, boats got readjusted to make room & in the end everyone got in except one large boat that had to anchor out. There are maybe 2 feet between boats now. Will be interesting to see how everyone gets out tomorrow. Some boaters are planning to leave quite early in the am as they have long trips & straits ahead of them.
We put the kayaks up, filled the boat with water & Rod did several maintenance things as it was not conducive to being outside! I finished cleaning the boat, getting our guest's stateroom ready for them & getting things marinated for dinner tonight. Mr. Cat's things moved back to our room yesterday & he's still readjusting.
Aya & Drew landed about 4:45 - good flight, apparently it was sunny in Seattle when they left. Still was cloudy & muggy here as the rain had just stopped a little before they arrived. We had a great evening visiting. Ate some of Jon's smoked salmon for appetizers & then had a great bottle of red wine (which they brought) with dinner. Rod scored cigars from Dale for he & Drew to smoke. I told them to go to Dale's boat (: They didn't get used as it was too late after dinner...but maybe in the morning before we go???? Otherwise it will be the Lido deck for the boys!
A lot of boats came in yesterday due to weather, boats got readjusted to make room & in the end everyone got in except one large boat that had to anchor out. There are maybe 2 feet between boats now. Will be interesting to see how everyone gets out tomorrow. Some boaters are planning to leave quite early in the am as they have long trips & straits ahead of them.
Drew and Aya arrive at Cortes
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| Kenmore seaplane arrives at Cortes Bay |
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| Seaplane approaches Seattle Yacht Club Dock at Cortes Bay |
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| Aya and Drew arrive for their adventure on Lady Lynn |
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Aug. 14-15th: Cortes
14th: Woke up this morning & got the kayaks down so Rod could wash them. Just as he finished, it started to pour & rained most of the day so no kayaking. I did go for a walk with Nancy (our Shelter Bay neighbor) & her 2 dogs late in the day - a standard poodle & a doberman. We saw a mother & baby deer along the way! By the time the dogs picked up the scent, they were long gone.
15th: It poured most of last night. Woke up to mixed clouds & blue sky, 70' at 9:00am, so still warm. Went for a kayak ride with Nancy - I think I have a Hobie convert! In the afternoon we went for a walk up to the top of the outstation's property - a gorgeous view from the top, but very steep going up. The dogs & a friend of Nancy's went too. The doberman, Freida, literally pulled me up the climb. She goes fast & it did make it easier but...out of breath! I took Cricket, the poodle, down & she was more gentle. Constantly stopping to make sure I was there & I think ok. Got up to 76' today so hoping for the best for the next few days as our friends fly in tomorrow aftenoon.
15th: It poured most of last night. Woke up to mixed clouds & blue sky, 70' at 9:00am, so still warm. Went for a kayak ride with Nancy - I think I have a Hobie convert! In the afternoon we went for a walk up to the top of the outstation's property - a gorgeous view from the top, but very steep going up. The dogs & a friend of Nancy's went too. The doberman, Freida, literally pulled me up the climb. She goes fast & it did make it easier but...out of breath! I took Cricket, the poodle, down & she was more gentle. Constantly stopping to make sure I was there & I think ok. Got up to 76' today so hoping for the best for the next few days as our friends fly in tomorrow aftenoon.
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Aug. 13th - Cortes SYC Outstation
We left Campbell River at 9:30. There was a high overcast & it was 59'. Smooth sailing once again! We got to Cortez a little after 11:00 & several boats were leaving so there were lots of docking options. Once we got tied up, I put shorts on for the first time since we headed to the Broughtons - it got up to the high 70's today.
In the afternoon, our new neighbors in Shelter Bay, Dale & Nancy, docked right next to us. We cocktailed with them across the dock - each on our own boat. If the water & weather cooperate, Nancy & I are going to kayak tomorrow - she wants to try out our Hobies as she has a regular kayak. We want to clean ours up tomorrow so they're ready for Aya & Drew, so we'll take them down.
In the afternoon, our new neighbors in Shelter Bay, Dale & Nancy, docked right next to us. We cocktailed with them across the dock - each on our own boat. If the water & weather cooperate, Nancy & I are going to kayak tomorrow - she wants to try out our Hobies as she has a regular kayak. We want to clean ours up tomorrow so they're ready for Aya & Drew, so we'll take them down.
Monday, August 12, 2013
Aug. 12th - Campbell River
Mr. Kitty was in big trouble this morning. He woke us up at 2:00am-I tried just petting him from bed as he always starts on my side. This usually means he's out of food so then I got up & his bowl was full...bad! He just wanted some company & then he started playing with one of his toys - which, by the way, he rarely touches at home. He likes to bat & push them around on the boat - maybe because they're on a wood floor, makes more noise! I even found one in his crate/"condo" (where he sleeps in our room). Who said you can't train a cat?---they were right!!!
We left Rebecca Spit at 10:00-it was 66' out already but started to drizzle as we left & quickly turned into a downpour which lasted the whole way to Campbell River-got there at 12:30. Coming into Campbell River, there was 4 knots of current pushing water through a narrow channel which caused lots of waves-again a bumpy ride or a short period of time. It was still pouring so no grocery shopping for awhile.
We're spending the night here & reprovisioning. They have a big grocery store close to the marina. Our friends, Aya & Drew, are flying into Cortez Friday afternoon for a long weekend so we'll replenish our dairy & fresh produce & add whatever else looks interesting.
The rain finally stopped & we headed to the grocery store. As we were shopping, we heard a voice saying "Rod, is that you?" It was Lewis, who used be our neighbor in my Madison Park condo by the tennis courts. Lewis is up here on his sailboat - his wife Shannon had just flown home with their 2 daughters & his in-laws had just flown in & were with him. They were clients of mine at Peoples/U.S. Bank. Once again-small world. They are staying at the same marina we are-Discovery Harbor Marina-so we're going to try to have drinks in Desolation where they are headed too.
We left Rebecca Spit at 10:00-it was 66' out already but started to drizzle as we left & quickly turned into a downpour which lasted the whole way to Campbell River-got there at 12:30. Coming into Campbell River, there was 4 knots of current pushing water through a narrow channel which caused lots of waves-again a bumpy ride or a short period of time. It was still pouring so no grocery shopping for awhile.
We're spending the night here & reprovisioning. They have a big grocery store close to the marina. Our friends, Aya & Drew, are flying into Cortez Friday afternoon for a long weekend so we'll replenish our dairy & fresh produce & add whatever else looks interesting.
The rain finally stopped & we headed to the grocery store. As we were shopping, we heard a voice saying "Rod, is that you?" It was Lewis, who used be our neighbor in my Madison Park condo by the tennis courts. Lewis is up here on his sailboat - his wife Shannon had just flown home with their 2 daughters & his in-laws had just flown in & were with him. They were clients of mine at Peoples/U.S. Bank. Once again-small world. They are staying at the same marina we are-Discovery Harbor Marina-so we're going to try to have drinks in Desolation where they are headed too.
Sunday, August 11, 2013
Aug. 11th - Rebecca Spit
This morning we woke up to fog once again, but it was burning off by 9:00 & blue sky by 10:00 at Blind Channel - in the 60's when we left at 11:30. We're heading to Rebecca Spit which is close to Campbell River where we're headed tomorrow. We'll anchor out.
We went through 2 sets of rapids again - Arran & Yuculta - they are back to back. There are only 2 times a day you can go through easily - our choices were to leave at 6am or noon. As we were approaching Arran, I counted at least 18 boats going our direction & boats come the other direction as well. As we turned the corner to head into the rapids, we saw a large barge with a tug pushing it heading into the mix with a large truck on it. Wind got up to 22 knots. The boats all lined up to go through single file so boats going the other direction would have plenty of room.
Around 3:30 it started raining - haven't seen that in a long time! We got to Rebecca Spit around 5:00. We experienced the bumpiest ride we've had on our trip when we crossed over to Rebecca Spit. I guess we were somewhat close to the Georgia Straits & they were predicted to be bad today per our friend Jon when Rod skyped with him on the way here. Reminded me of how spoiled we've been on this trip - flat water all the way until this little stretch.
We went through 2 sets of rapids again - Arran & Yuculta - they are back to back. There are only 2 times a day you can go through easily - our choices were to leave at 6am or noon. As we were approaching Arran, I counted at least 18 boats going our direction & boats come the other direction as well. As we turned the corner to head into the rapids, we saw a large barge with a tug pushing it heading into the mix with a large truck on it. Wind got up to 22 knots. The boats all lined up to go through single file so boats going the other direction would have plenty of room.
Around 3:30 it started raining - haven't seen that in a long time! We got to Rebecca Spit around 5:00. We experienced the bumpiest ride we've had on our trip when we crossed over to Rebecca Spit. I guess we were somewhat close to the Georgia Straits & they were predicted to be bad today per our friend Jon when Rod skyped with him on the way here. Reminded me of how spoiled we've been on this trip - flat water all the way until this little stretch.
Johnstone Strait to Blind Channel
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| Leaving Port Harvey was a little foggy |
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| The fog lifted and the scenery was beautiful |
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| Log tow on our way to Blind Channel |
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| Mast on the Sea Quell |
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| The 109' sailboat "Sea Quell" was our dock buddy at Blind Channel |
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| Lady Lynn look mighty small next to Sea Quell |
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| Sea Quell as it left for her adventure in Alaska |
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Aug. 10th - Blind Channel
We left Port Harvey at 8am after Capt. Rod paid our bill & picked up our 2 cinnamon rolls which were ready at 7:30. You order them at dinner. Clearly, there is no will power on this boat...serious diets will be in order when we get home!!! However, you could say that we are conducting a survey to determine whose rolls are the best (-: Each marina has their own version.
3 boats left around 6:30am to head out to Johnstone Strait & another left when we did. Predictions were for light wind in the am but we couldn't get a good read on the fog until we were out there ourselves. The web cams that the owner uses weren't giving helpful info today.
Once we got out to Johnstone, the fog was thick on the water. We had radar & the fog horn on, wind was 1-3 knots, water flat. About an hour out, the fog started to lift a little & radar was turned off about 1-1/2 hrs. out & we were through the strait in a little over 2 hours. Blue sky by 11:00 & docked at Blind Channel at 1:15.
A large 109' sailboat came in next to us - the Sea Quell (you can find it online for pictures & info). We visited with a fellow from Orcas Island who is on board as a "tour guide" for their trip to Glacier Bay in Alaska. Apparently the American owner is on board. We've seen at least 5 crew. The boat usually travels between the Mediterranean & Carribean.
We enjoyed the Blind Channel restaurant again tonight. We ended up eating with 2 other couples that were at Port Harvey with us. Our reservations were for 7pm & we didn't get back to the boat until after 10:00.
3 boats left around 6:30am to head out to Johnstone Strait & another left when we did. Predictions were for light wind in the am but we couldn't get a good read on the fog until we were out there ourselves. The web cams that the owner uses weren't giving helpful info today.
Once we got out to Johnstone, the fog was thick on the water. We had radar & the fog horn on, wind was 1-3 knots, water flat. About an hour out, the fog started to lift a little & radar was turned off about 1-1/2 hrs. out & we were through the strait in a little over 2 hours. Blue sky by 11:00 & docked at Blind Channel at 1:15.
A large 109' sailboat came in next to us - the Sea Quell (you can find it online for pictures & info). We visited with a fellow from Orcas Island who is on board as a "tour guide" for their trip to Glacier Bay in Alaska. Apparently the American owner is on board. We've seen at least 5 crew. The boat usually travels between the Mediterranean & Carribean.
We enjoyed the Blind Channel restaurant again tonight. We ended up eating with 2 other couples that were at Port Harvey with us. Our reservations were for 7pm & we didn't get back to the boat until after 10:00.
Friday, August 9, 2013
Aug. 9th - Port Harvey Marina
We left Kwatsi about 9:30 to time the rapids in Chatham Channel heading south. We are spending the night at Port Harvey Marina on East Cracroft Island. This will be our first time there - even Rod hasn't stopped before. The fog cleared around noon today. The store & the Red Shoe cafe are on a barge tied to shore. (If you bring a red shoe to the cafe, you get free dessert. One woman who came in on a sailboat said she bought a child's shoe at a thrift store in Nanaimo where they live).
After we docked, the owner brought us a menu to choose our dinner so they know what to cook: choices were hamburgers, fish & chips, salmon burger, pizza (which we're told is very good) & ribs. You write down what you want, the time for your "reservation"& your boat name. Rod & I both ordered fish & chips. As Wagoner's Guide says, "Nothing is fancy. Rustic but solid & attentatively run."
It was very windy when we came in & that continued the rest of the day. We're right by Johnstone Strait & there are gale warnings today. Our plan is to leave early tomorrow, around 8:00am, & head across & it sounds like we'll have company. There are 8 boats docked here - all came in when we did or after.
We went to dinner at the Red Shoe Cafe - very quaint, in the upstairs of the store building. There were all kinds of red shoes on the wall - will have to bring something next year to add to the decor! There were 18 people that came for dinner - probably all the boats here tonight. Dinners chosen were ribs, pizza & fish & chips. Desserts were either pineapple cheese cake or chocolate carmel croissant with vanilla ice cream & chocolate sauce - we had the later...decadent!!!
We visited for quite awhile with George Cambridge, the owner - his wife is Gail. They did all of the cooking & serving at the restaurant. We ordered 2 cinnamon rolls to be picked up at 7:30 tomorrow.
After we docked, the owner brought us a menu to choose our dinner so they know what to cook: choices were hamburgers, fish & chips, salmon burger, pizza (which we're told is very good) & ribs. You write down what you want, the time for your "reservation"& your boat name. Rod & I both ordered fish & chips. As Wagoner's Guide says, "Nothing is fancy. Rustic but solid & attentatively run."
It was very windy when we came in & that continued the rest of the day. We're right by Johnstone Strait & there are gale warnings today. Our plan is to leave early tomorrow, around 8:00am, & head across & it sounds like we'll have company. There are 8 boats docked here - all came in when we did or after.
We went to dinner at the Red Shoe Cafe - very quaint, in the upstairs of the store building. There were all kinds of red shoes on the wall - will have to bring something next year to add to the decor! There were 18 people that came for dinner - probably all the boats here tonight. Dinners chosen were ribs, pizza & fish & chips. Desserts were either pineapple cheese cake or chocolate carmel croissant with vanilla ice cream & chocolate sauce - we had the later...decadent!!!
We visited for quite awhile with George Cambridge, the owner - his wife is Gail. They did all of the cooking & serving at the restaurant. We ordered 2 cinnamon rolls to be picked up at 7:30 tomorrow.
Kwatsi Bay Happy Hour
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| Kwatsi Happy Hour |
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| More Kwatsi Happy Hour |
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| The lovely Lady Lynn |
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| Anca & Max owners of Kwatsi Bay Marina |
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Aug. 8th - Kwatsi Bay Marina
Just as we were leaving our bay around 11:30 we spotted a little black bear on the shore. We got closer so we could watch him looking for food in the rocks - our first bear sighting on this trip!!! Kwatsi was a very short trip away.
We've been coming to Kwatsi for a long time. Anca & Max own the little marina & built it on floats themselves & opened in 1998. Their kids are now gone but were very young when we first came here. Now their daughter, Marieka, just finished her 2nd year of college & works at Port McNeil Marina for the 2nd summer in a row. Their son, Russell, is 17 & just finished his 1st year of culinary school. I remember him talking about his passion last year.
There are 11 boats here tonight - 4 of them are Grand Banks. That's about all they can handle. Happy hour was at 5pm with potluck appies. Lots of dolphins came into the bay before dinner & were jumping around - what great entertainment! The weather was perfect - in the low-mid 70's. We barbequed steaks with hashbrowns again - notice a trend??? We're long on steaks in the freezer. Thought we'd go thru more when the family was here but we didn't eat any of them then.
We've been coming to Kwatsi for a long time. Anca & Max own the little marina & built it on floats themselves & opened in 1998. Their kids are now gone but were very young when we first came here. Now their daughter, Marieka, just finished her 2nd year of college & works at Port McNeil Marina for the 2nd summer in a row. Their son, Russell, is 17 & just finished his 1st year of culinary school. I remember him talking about his passion last year.
There are 11 boats here tonight - 4 of them are Grand Banks. That's about all they can handle. Happy hour was at 5pm with potluck appies. Lots of dolphins came into the bay before dinner & were jumping around - what great entertainment! The weather was perfect - in the low-mid 70's. We barbequed steaks with hashbrowns again - notice a trend??? We're long on steaks in the freezer. Thought we'd go thru more when the family was here but we didn't eat any of them then.
Bear in Wahkana Bay
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| A bear looking for breakfast in Wahkana Bay |
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| Bear headed back to the woods after breakfast |
Sullivan Bay and Wahkana Bay
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| Lady Lynn at Sullivan Bay docks |
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| Sullivan Bay float home with an interesting mode of transportation |
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| Heading up Tribune Channel |
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| Another view of Tribune Channel |
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| More of Tribune Channel and a nice cloud |
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| We are anchored in Wahkana Bay all by ourselves |
Aug. 7th - Wahkana Bay
We left Sullivan around 11:00 - again foggy in the am but burned off before we left. When Rod went to pay our bill there were hot out of the oven turnovers - so he got 1 cherry & 1 apple - yum! It was time to vacuum again - lots of cat hair & cat sand. Figured I would do that while we still had power as we'll be on the generator for the next couple of days.
About our sun/bug screens...they are getting a real work out & we love them!!! There are a lot of bugs - mostly horse flies & other little ones in the Broughtons, mosquitoes & yellow jackets in Desolation. Rod has been bitten several times by the horse flies - they take a big bite out of you & it's very sore for a couple of days.
We went past Lacy Falls - no water coming down. We've been there in years past when the water is rushing down the falls & you can get close enough so the water is splashing on the boat. The manager at Sullivan Bay told us this has been the best summer weather in a long time for the Broughtons - minimal rain.
We anchored in Wahkana Bay around 2:00pm for the night...on our way to Kwatsi Marina tomorrow. We were at the very end of the bay & were the only boat. This was a bay that Rod found on our Active Captain system - other boaters can comment on places to stay in the area you are in.
Dinner tonight was corned beef hash with eggs & english muffins. I bought the hash at Market House Meats in Seattle where I buy corned beef to make & freeze for the boat. The hash comes in packets with onions, potatoes & green pepper. They make it there & it's delicious. The packets are good for 2-3 people & it freezes well.
Kitty update: Chardonnay is doing quite well on the boat. He loves sitting by the open doors & occasionally wanders around the deck. His thyroid medicine (newly diagnosed before we left) & insulin shots twice a day seem to be synced up properly. Before we left, the vet taught us (really Rod) how to do a glucose curve by pricking his ear & getting blood samples every 3 hrs starting at 6am to 6pm for a day. We've done it twice so far on this trip - Rod emails the vet who tells us how often to do the curve & if we need to adjust his insulin. We did the last test just after the family left & will do the next one mid-Aug. His last curve was great - right within the desired range. The other thing that we notice, especially on the boat because he has to use steps going up & down to sleep & eat, is how gingerly he is moving. He's got arthritis & in cat years is in his 80's so I guess that's to be expected (:
About our sun/bug screens...they are getting a real work out & we love them!!! There are a lot of bugs - mostly horse flies & other little ones in the Broughtons, mosquitoes & yellow jackets in Desolation. Rod has been bitten several times by the horse flies - they take a big bite out of you & it's very sore for a couple of days.
We went past Lacy Falls - no water coming down. We've been there in years past when the water is rushing down the falls & you can get close enough so the water is splashing on the boat. The manager at Sullivan Bay told us this has been the best summer weather in a long time for the Broughtons - minimal rain.
We anchored in Wahkana Bay around 2:00pm for the night...on our way to Kwatsi Marina tomorrow. We were at the very end of the bay & were the only boat. This was a bay that Rod found on our Active Captain system - other boaters can comment on places to stay in the area you are in.
Dinner tonight was corned beef hash with eggs & english muffins. I bought the hash at Market House Meats in Seattle where I buy corned beef to make & freeze for the boat. The hash comes in packets with onions, potatoes & green pepper. They make it there & it's delicious. The packets are good for 2-3 people & it freezes well.
Kitty update: Chardonnay is doing quite well on the boat. He loves sitting by the open doors & occasionally wanders around the deck. His thyroid medicine (newly diagnosed before we left) & insulin shots twice a day seem to be synced up properly. Before we left, the vet taught us (really Rod) how to do a glucose curve by pricking his ear & getting blood samples every 3 hrs starting at 6am to 6pm for a day. We've done it twice so far on this trip - Rod emails the vet who tells us how often to do the curve & if we need to adjust his insulin. We did the last test just after the family left & will do the next one mid-Aug. His last curve was great - right within the desired range. The other thing that we notice, especially on the boat because he has to use steps going up & down to sleep & eat, is how gingerly he is moving. He's got arthritis & in cat years is in his 80's so I guess that's to be expected (:
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Aug. 6th - Sullivan Bay
This morning was thick with fog (or marine layer) when we got up but it burned off around 10:30 & we headed to Sullivan Bay around 11:00. One wash was done & 2 more left to do at Sullivan. The marina is next to a group of 11 very nice float homes - some of the owners actually bought the marina 7 years ago. You can walk about a mile on the docks & by the homes. There is a little store & liquor outlet here & a fuel dock. We lucked out as today was delivery day for the store around 1:30. They closed the store to unload things & reopened around 2:30. There was a line to get in (I was waiting) & food (especially the fresh food & bread) disappeared quickly. I was glad to be one of the first in as we were out of most veggies & fruit. I saw lots of people filling up on beer, wine & liquor too.
Happy hour was at 5pm with potluck appetizers. Then we cooked ribs with barbeque sauce for dinner & atevon the flybridge - it was a beautiful evening. There is a restaurant here but we feel like we've gotten our fill of "restaurant" food for awhile.
We mostly visited with 2 couples - one we met last year at Shawl Bay. He was the 87 year old (now 88) man who scuba dived to unwind a person's crab bag that was hanging off his boat & got twisted in his propellor. He's Rod's idol - they are out for 5 months in the summer. The other was a couple from Utah, now Carefree Az, who occasionally comes to La Conner on their boat which they keep in Sidney BC. We exchanged boat cards & hope to connect with them in the future. We also ran into the couple we met & had dinner with at Blind Channel who also have a Grand Banks.
Happy hour was at 5pm with potluck appetizers. Then we cooked ribs with barbeque sauce for dinner & atevon the flybridge - it was a beautiful evening. There is a restaurant here but we feel like we've gotten our fill of "restaurant" food for awhile.
We mostly visited with 2 couples - one we met last year at Shawl Bay. He was the 87 year old (now 88) man who scuba dived to unwind a person's crab bag that was hanging off his boat & got twisted in his propellor. He's Rod's idol - they are out for 5 months in the summer. The other was a couple from Utah, now Carefree Az, who occasionally comes to La Conner on their boat which they keep in Sidney BC. We exchanged boat cards & hope to connect with them in the future. We also ran into the couple we met & had dinner with at Blind Channel who also have a Grand Banks.
Claydon Bay and Sullivan Bay
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| At anchor in Claydon Bay |
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| Colorful anchor chain |
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| Small islet near entrance to anchorage in Claydon Bay |
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| Tree down to the water in Claydon Bay |
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| Power and water are important utilities |
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| Fuel dock at Sullivan Bay |
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| Sullivan Bay art |
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| So much traffic the docks need stop signs |
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| Sullivan Bay Managers home |
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| Nice walk ways at Sullivan Bay |
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| Halloween character lounges on a sunny day in Sullivan Bay |
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