30 Day's of Cruising the Far North
June 29th - July 28th 2013
Red arrows indicate the trip north, green was the return trip south.
Part One, Roche Harbor 4th of July Adventure
This is a series of stories that took place throughout the month of July. We traveled from our homeport of Stimson’s in Seattle to the Octopus Islands. Part one covers the trip from Seattle to Roche Harbor.
This is a series of stories that took place throughout the month of July. We traveled from our homeport of Stimson’s in Seattle to the Octopus Islands. Part one covers the trip from Seattle to Roche Harbor.
Saturday, June 29th, North to Mystery Bay
The water tanks filled. Fuel tanks topped off. Groceries brought aboard. Oil and filters changed. With the preparations done, finally it’s time to cast off and head north.
Our journey takes us on a series of short hops through the San Juan’s ending up at Roche Harbor for the 4th of July. Then on the 5th, once again we will point our bow north, making our way as far as the Octopus Islands before turning south and heading home again. Four weeks of cruising in the glorious PNW!
9:30am, all is filled and stowed. It is now time to go.
We cast off and head for the lock. As luck would have it, the large lock is open and we are directed right in. Hayden Bay follows suit.
Once clear of the lock, we point our bow north. Our destination today is Mystery Bay, which lies between Indian and Marrowstone Islands.
The Sound is flat calm. A light breeze ruffles the surface. The sun casts its warm glow upon us. Navigating from the fly bridge, we take advantage of this incredible weather.
We cruise at a leisurely pace of 6 knots burning just 1.5 GPH. We share the water with many others today. It seems everyone is headed north.
As we make our way past Foulweather Bluff; the traffic all but disappears. Now it is just Hayden Bay and Destiny plying these waters.
We approach the east side of Marrowstone Island; the wind begins to pick up. Blowing at 10 to 12 knots. Wavelets dance across the surface. We make our way around the north end of the island to the narrow serpentine entrance. Entering on a low tide we use extreme caution and vigilance.
Slowly we make our way through the narrow channel. We see depths of as little as four feet under our keel. At last, we are through the channel and into the open water of Mystery Bay. What an incredible location! Amazingly, there are no more than a dozen boats anchored. All of those are in the area of the Marine Park.
We choose a location on the west side away from all of the others. Hayden Bay heads in and drops her anchor. Once she is secure, Maureen brings Destiny along side.
We relax enjoying the sunshine and warm weather from the fly bridge. Overhead, a pair of Eagles soar. Their nest just off our port bow. The mate flies off returning later with a large branch to add to their nest.
Darkness comes; we sit and stare at the great sea of stars.
The water tanks filled. Fuel tanks topped off. Groceries brought aboard. Oil and filters changed. With the preparations done, finally it’s time to cast off and head north.
Our journey takes us on a series of short hops through the San Juan’s ending up at Roche Harbor for the 4th of July. Then on the 5th, once again we will point our bow north, making our way as far as the Octopus Islands before turning south and heading home again. Four weeks of cruising in the glorious PNW!
9:30am, all is filled and stowed. It is now time to go.
We cast off and head for the lock. As luck would have it, the large lock is open and we are directed right in. Hayden Bay follows suit.
Once clear of the lock, we point our bow north. Our destination today is Mystery Bay, which lies between Indian and Marrowstone Islands.
The Sound is flat calm. A light breeze ruffles the surface. The sun casts its warm glow upon us. Navigating from the fly bridge, we take advantage of this incredible weather.
We cruise at a leisurely pace of 6 knots burning just 1.5 GPH. We share the water with many others today. It seems everyone is headed north.
As we make our way past Foulweather Bluff; the traffic all but disappears. Now it is just Hayden Bay and Destiny plying these waters.
We approach the east side of Marrowstone Island; the wind begins to pick up. Blowing at 10 to 12 knots. Wavelets dance across the surface. We make our way around the north end of the island to the narrow serpentine entrance. Entering on a low tide we use extreme caution and vigilance.
Slowly we make our way through the narrow channel. We see depths of as little as four feet under our keel. At last, we are through the channel and into the open water of Mystery Bay. What an incredible location! Amazingly, there are no more than a dozen boats anchored. All of those are in the area of the Marine Park.
We choose a location on the west side away from all of the others. Hayden Bay heads in and drops her anchor. Once she is secure, Maureen brings Destiny along side.
We relax enjoying the sunshine and warm weather from the fly bridge. Overhead, a pair of Eagles soar. Their nest just off our port bow. The mate flies off returning later with a large branch to add to their nest.
Darkness comes; we sit and stare at the great sea of stars.
Hughes Bay, Lopez Island
Morning breaks with incredible blue skies and sunshine. A young boy water ski’s by taking advantage of the early morning calm. I take advantage of the dew that fell overnight to wipe down Destiny.
With the coffee brewed, it is time to continue our way north. With our lines back aboard; we gently pull away from Hayden Bay. Maureen points Destiny’s bow toward deeper water while I stow the fenders and lines. Jorge brings Hayden Bay’s Rocna aboard.
We make our way out of the channel toward the open water of the Straits of Juan de Fuca.
Our crossing is spectacular. Flat glassy smooth surface. Not a hint of a breeze. We set the autopilot with our destination of Hughes Bay at the south end of Lopez Island. We spot numerous Porpoise as well as Harbor Seals as we make the 27-mile crossing.
Upon our arrival at Hughes Bay, we meet up with Gail and Patrick aboard Last Call. They have made the trip down from Ganges to join us through the 4th.
Hayden Bay makes her way into Hughes Bay and drops her big Rocna. Next, Patrick takes Last Call in and rafts alongside. Now it is Maureen’s turn. Gently we come alongside and secure our lines. Once again eagles soar overhead. The beauty of this bay is incredible!
Our afternoon is spent relaxing and taking in the surrounding scenery. As darkness falls, the bay becomes alive with swells from the straits. The three boats rock and tug at their lines. We sit and keep watch on the lines and fenders until we are sure all is good.
Maureen, Jorge, and I sit on the fly bridge until after 1:00 am staring at the amazing night sky. Satellites and shooting stars pass overhead. The complete darkness of the area makes for amazing stargazing. At last we all head off to bed.
Tomorrow we will make our way to Blind Bay on Shaw Island.
Morning breaks with incredible blue skies and sunshine. A young boy water ski’s by taking advantage of the early morning calm. I take advantage of the dew that fell overnight to wipe down Destiny.
With the coffee brewed, it is time to continue our way north. With our lines back aboard; we gently pull away from Hayden Bay. Maureen points Destiny’s bow toward deeper water while I stow the fenders and lines. Jorge brings Hayden Bay’s Rocna aboard.
We make our way out of the channel toward the open water of the Straits of Juan de Fuca.
Our crossing is spectacular. Flat glassy smooth surface. Not a hint of a breeze. We set the autopilot with our destination of Hughes Bay at the south end of Lopez Island. We spot numerous Porpoise as well as Harbor Seals as we make the 27-mile crossing.
Upon our arrival at Hughes Bay, we meet up with Gail and Patrick aboard Last Call. They have made the trip down from Ganges to join us through the 4th.
Hayden Bay makes her way into Hughes Bay and drops her big Rocna. Next, Patrick takes Last Call in and rafts alongside. Now it is Maureen’s turn. Gently we come alongside and secure our lines. Once again eagles soar overhead. The beauty of this bay is incredible!
Our afternoon is spent relaxing and taking in the surrounding scenery. As darkness falls, the bay becomes alive with swells from the straits. The three boats rock and tug at their lines. We sit and keep watch on the lines and fenders until we are sure all is good.
Maureen, Jorge, and I sit on the fly bridge until after 1:00 am staring at the amazing night sky. Satellites and shooting stars pass overhead. The complete darkness of the area makes for amazing stargazing. At last we all head off to bed.
Tomorrow we will make our way to Blind Bay on Shaw Island.
Blind Bay, Shaw Island
We rise with the sun for an early morning departure. I have prepared two pots of coffee. One for the crew of Hayden Bay, the other for Maureen and I. With the coffee handed off, it is time to depart.
As Maureen works on her computer, I bring Destiny’s lines aboard. With lines aboard, I take Destiny out of Hughes Bay. Last Call leaving Hayden Bay behind, follows us out. Jorge raise’s and stow’s Hayden Bay’s Rocna.
Entering the straits of Juan de Fuca, we are met with three to four foot rollers. I bring Destiny in very close to Castle Island keeping the rollers on our forward quarter reducing the roll as much as possible. Tucked in behind Castle Island, I make the turn to the northeast. The rollers are now astern, allowing us a gentle ride.
We make our way into Rosario Strait and on to Lopez Pass. The morning air is bright and crisp. The water flat calm. Mount Baker, still covered in it winter snows, sparkles in the distance. What a world we live in.
We enter Lopez Pass making our way into Lopez Sound. This is an incredibly beautiful body of water. Definitely one we will return to in the future.
We make our way into Thatcher’s Pass spying friends, Herb and Willie as well as Bruce and Vicki in their Ranger Tug’s. They too, plan to spend the holiday cruising the islands. We call out on the radio wishing them a pleasant journey and continue onto Blind Bay.
The sun reaches higher in the sky, boat traffic picks up. Summer is a busy time here in the San Juan’s. We make our way through the islands. I make notes on my chart of other locations that look interesting. We shall visit these in the future. At last we reach our destination for the evening.
Upon our arrival at Blind Bay, we each head off in a different direction to scout out the best location to drop the hook. We find it in the southwest corner of the bay.
Hayden Bay drops her Rocna. Destiny and Last Call take their places alongside. After lunch we will take the dinghies and head across the Harney Channel to the little town of Orcas for one of the best ice cream cones in the islands.
We enjoy our Ice Cream and make our way back to our little flotilla. Happy hour begins and another incredible day on the water comes to an end.
Tomorrow, we will head off to Prevost Harbor on Stuart Island.
We rise with the sun for an early morning departure. I have prepared two pots of coffee. One for the crew of Hayden Bay, the other for Maureen and I. With the coffee handed off, it is time to depart.
As Maureen works on her computer, I bring Destiny’s lines aboard. With lines aboard, I take Destiny out of Hughes Bay. Last Call leaving Hayden Bay behind, follows us out. Jorge raise’s and stow’s Hayden Bay’s Rocna.
Entering the straits of Juan de Fuca, we are met with three to four foot rollers. I bring Destiny in very close to Castle Island keeping the rollers on our forward quarter reducing the roll as much as possible. Tucked in behind Castle Island, I make the turn to the northeast. The rollers are now astern, allowing us a gentle ride.
We make our way into Rosario Strait and on to Lopez Pass. The morning air is bright and crisp. The water flat calm. Mount Baker, still covered in it winter snows, sparkles in the distance. What a world we live in.
We enter Lopez Pass making our way into Lopez Sound. This is an incredibly beautiful body of water. Definitely one we will return to in the future.
We make our way into Thatcher’s Pass spying friends, Herb and Willie as well as Bruce and Vicki in their Ranger Tug’s. They too, plan to spend the holiday cruising the islands. We call out on the radio wishing them a pleasant journey and continue onto Blind Bay.
The sun reaches higher in the sky, boat traffic picks up. Summer is a busy time here in the San Juan’s. We make our way through the islands. I make notes on my chart of other locations that look interesting. We shall visit these in the future. At last we reach our destination for the evening.
Upon our arrival at Blind Bay, we each head off in a different direction to scout out the best location to drop the hook. We find it in the southwest corner of the bay.
Hayden Bay drops her Rocna. Destiny and Last Call take their places alongside. After lunch we will take the dinghies and head across the Harney Channel to the little town of Orcas for one of the best ice cream cones in the islands.
We enjoy our Ice Cream and make our way back to our little flotilla. Happy hour begins and another incredible day on the water comes to an end.
Tomorrow, we will head off to Prevost Harbor on Stuart Island.
Prevost Harbor, Stuart Island
Our last visit to Stuart Island took us to Reid Harbor. This visit, we will try Prevost. The cruise from Blind Bay takes us west through Harney Channel out into San Juan Channel. From there, we turn northwest and make our way to Stuart Island.
Once again, we pass Jones Island and once again say, “We need to come back here”. Jones Island always seems to be one of those places we see as we are headed in one direction or the other. Someday…
We arrive at Stuart Island at noon. Surprisingly, the anchorage is pretty much empty. Marcus chose’s to drop Hayden Bays Rocna in the small cove on the northeast side of the entrance, just in front of the YMCA camp. With everything secure, Marcus, Jorge, and I take Hayden Bay’s tender to the park dock. We decide a hike to Turn Point Light is in order. The two and a half mile hike is quite easy as it is on a gravel road. The views from the lighthouse are incredible. You look north across Boundary Pass into the Southern Gulf Islands. Looking to the west you have a magnificent view of the mountains on Vancouver Island.
Upon our return to our flotilla, we find that Maureen and Gail have started to assemble the fixings for a great happy hour. We all move to the fly bridge of Destiny taking in the amazing views that surround us. What an incredible way to end a perfect day.
Our last visit to Stuart Island took us to Reid Harbor. This visit, we will try Prevost. The cruise from Blind Bay takes us west through Harney Channel out into San Juan Channel. From there, we turn northwest and make our way to Stuart Island.
Once again, we pass Jones Island and once again say, “We need to come back here”. Jones Island always seems to be one of those places we see as we are headed in one direction or the other. Someday…
We arrive at Stuart Island at noon. Surprisingly, the anchorage is pretty much empty. Marcus chose’s to drop Hayden Bays Rocna in the small cove on the northeast side of the entrance, just in front of the YMCA camp. With everything secure, Marcus, Jorge, and I take Hayden Bay’s tender to the park dock. We decide a hike to Turn Point Light is in order. The two and a half mile hike is quite easy as it is on a gravel road. The views from the lighthouse are incredible. You look north across Boundary Pass into the Southern Gulf Islands. Looking to the west you have a magnificent view of the mountains on Vancouver Island.
Upon our return to our flotilla, we find that Maureen and Gail have started to assemble the fixings for a great happy hour. We all move to the fly bridge of Destiny taking in the amazing views that surround us. What an incredible way to end a perfect day.
Time to move onto Roche Harbor!
With the 4th of July celebration being just two days away, we make the decision that it is time to move on to Roche Harbor and secure ourselves a prime anchorage location.
We depart Prevost Harbor at 7am. The waters of Boundary Pass are flat calm. The sun still low in the eastern sky, sparkles like diamonds off the tiny ripples on the surface.
We make our way around Turn Point into Haro Strait. As we make the turn, we hug the shoreline. Even before rounding the point, we had become aware of a large container ship heading for Boundary Pass. We make a starboard-to-starboard pass giving the great ship plenty of room.
We arrive at Roche at 9:30. The anchorage has begun to fill. The marina is already completely filled. We choose a location on the north side affording us a great view of all of the activities in the harbor. Boats of all sizes and shapes come and go. Their passengers dressed from the skimpiest of outfits to those decked out for the country club.
Once all is secure, we head into the marina to do breakfast at the Lime Kiln Café. The dinghy dock is overflowing with tenders of all sizes. Patrick wedges Last Call’s tender in between two others. I climb to the dock with the bowline in hand, pulling the dinghy ever closer. Once secure, Gail and Pat make their way to the dock.
After breakfast, we make a quick visit to the grocery store as well as taking a brief stroll through the gardens. Then it is back to our flotilla.
We spend two days in Roche Harbor hiking and wandering through town. While many people find great enjoyment in visiting Roche, it is not quite my type of boating destination. Crowds of people, dinghy’s racing through the anchorage. We look forward to making our way north to the quiet anchorages and small towns.
The sun begins to set; we take our place on Hayden Bay’s sundeck to enjoy the fireworks. As the rockets explode overhead, we toast this great nation we live in. There is no other like it.
Tomorrow we will rise early to continue our journey north.
What a great life we live!
With the 4th of July celebration being just two days away, we make the decision that it is time to move on to Roche Harbor and secure ourselves a prime anchorage location.
We depart Prevost Harbor at 7am. The waters of Boundary Pass are flat calm. The sun still low in the eastern sky, sparkles like diamonds off the tiny ripples on the surface.
We make our way around Turn Point into Haro Strait. As we make the turn, we hug the shoreline. Even before rounding the point, we had become aware of a large container ship heading for Boundary Pass. We make a starboard-to-starboard pass giving the great ship plenty of room.
We arrive at Roche at 9:30. The anchorage has begun to fill. The marina is already completely filled. We choose a location on the north side affording us a great view of all of the activities in the harbor. Boats of all sizes and shapes come and go. Their passengers dressed from the skimpiest of outfits to those decked out for the country club.
Once all is secure, we head into the marina to do breakfast at the Lime Kiln Café. The dinghy dock is overflowing with tenders of all sizes. Patrick wedges Last Call’s tender in between two others. I climb to the dock with the bowline in hand, pulling the dinghy ever closer. Once secure, Gail and Pat make their way to the dock.
After breakfast, we make a quick visit to the grocery store as well as taking a brief stroll through the gardens. Then it is back to our flotilla.
We spend two days in Roche Harbor hiking and wandering through town. While many people find great enjoyment in visiting Roche, it is not quite my type of boating destination. Crowds of people, dinghy’s racing through the anchorage. We look forward to making our way north to the quiet anchorages and small towns.
The sun begins to set; we take our place on Hayden Bay’s sundeck to enjoy the fireworks. As the rockets explode overhead, we toast this great nation we live in. There is no other like it.
Tomorrow we will rise early to continue our journey north.
What a great life we live!
Part Two: On to the Octopus Islands
At Last, North we go!
The sun has yet to make its appearance. I am up and making coffee. Two pots, one for the crew of Hayden Bay, the other for Destiny. Six o’clock comes, it is now time to start making our way north. I cast off first, Last Call follows suit. Jorge is ready to pull in an anchor loaded with kelp but is relieved when it is simply filled with soft mud. A quick rinse and he has it stowed.
We depart Roche Harbor making our way into Haro Strait. The strait is alive with shipping traffic. At one point we have one north bound and three south bound ships to contend with.
As we make Turn Point, Last Call points her bow toward Bedwell Harbor. Pat and Gail are headed back home to Ganges planning to clear back into Canada at Poets. We bid them fair winds and followings seas.
We are now a fleet of two making our way north. The wind continues to build in strength. By the time we reach Herring Bay, they are gusting to close to 25 knots. It is not long and we are taking spray over the bow. The bow rises and falls five to six feet as each wave passes beneath. The sun shines brightly overhead. The sky an incredible deep cobalt blue.
We near Dodd Narrow’s, I pull back on the throttle slowing our progress. We plan to transit between 15:30 and 16:00. We arrive an hour and a half early. We will stand off until it is safe to transit. Todays flood is over seven knots. Nothing to fool with.
As we stand off, other vessels arrive. They too choose to wait for slack. Occasionally what we figure must be a local, will go through. Along with the pleasure boats, a tug with a log tow stands off. I contact the tug on Channel 11 to find out what his intentions are. He plans to wait until 16:00 to transit.
At 15:00, sailboats start to make their way north through the narrows. We determine that if they can make it, we too can. We hail Hayden Bay and let them know we “are going in”. I take the helm, Maureen prepares the camera to document Destiny’s first trip through. Ever so slowly, we make our way towards the southern entrance. We see a very large standing wave at the far north end. In the wave are numerous very large logs swirling about. There is no turning back now.
I push the throttle completely forward thankful for all 380 HP the Cummins is delivering at this point. I aim to the starboard side of the channel hoping to miss the logs. As it is, the current has a different thought for these menaces and moves them further to our port.
We burst through the standing wave with spray reaching the fly bridge. We give a whoop and holler as we clear the confines of the narrows. Now it is Hayden Bays turn. We fill Marcus in as to what to expect. Using the VHF, we walk him through, updating him as to the location of the logs. With Hayden Bay turning full power, she too punches through the wave. We give each other a thumb’s up and point our bows towards Nanaimo. Our intended destination for this evening.
As we approach Nanaimo, I contact the Port Authority on the VHF establishing our slip assignments for the night. Maureen takes Destiny in while I prepare the lines and fenders. She will have to navigate a long narrow fairway and then parallel dock on the pier. A female dockhand awaits our arrival to assist with securing our lines. When she sees Maureen at the helm she gives a holler out that she “loves to see the boss at the helm”!
Maureen makes a flawless landing ever so gently bringing Destiny alongside.
Marcus choses to back down the fairway to make for an easier exit when it comes time to depart. He too has no issues with making it to the dock for a flawless landing.
This evening we will dine at Penny’s Palapa. This is a great little floating Mexican Restaurant. Coincidently it is right next to where we have secured Destiny.
Prior to registering for the evening, we check the morning forecast. It is expected to be blowing at 25 knots plus in the morning; we make the decision that we will spend two nights at Nanaimo. All the better as we need to provision and would also like to get a couple of loads of laundry done.
The sun has yet to make its appearance. I am up and making coffee. Two pots, one for the crew of Hayden Bay, the other for Destiny. Six o’clock comes, it is now time to start making our way north. I cast off first, Last Call follows suit. Jorge is ready to pull in an anchor loaded with kelp but is relieved when it is simply filled with soft mud. A quick rinse and he has it stowed.
We depart Roche Harbor making our way into Haro Strait. The strait is alive with shipping traffic. At one point we have one north bound and three south bound ships to contend with.
As we make Turn Point, Last Call points her bow toward Bedwell Harbor. Pat and Gail are headed back home to Ganges planning to clear back into Canada at Poets. We bid them fair winds and followings seas.
We are now a fleet of two making our way north. The wind continues to build in strength. By the time we reach Herring Bay, they are gusting to close to 25 knots. It is not long and we are taking spray over the bow. The bow rises and falls five to six feet as each wave passes beneath. The sun shines brightly overhead. The sky an incredible deep cobalt blue.
We near Dodd Narrow’s, I pull back on the throttle slowing our progress. We plan to transit between 15:30 and 16:00. We arrive an hour and a half early. We will stand off until it is safe to transit. Todays flood is over seven knots. Nothing to fool with.
As we stand off, other vessels arrive. They too choose to wait for slack. Occasionally what we figure must be a local, will go through. Along with the pleasure boats, a tug with a log tow stands off. I contact the tug on Channel 11 to find out what his intentions are. He plans to wait until 16:00 to transit.
At 15:00, sailboats start to make their way north through the narrows. We determine that if they can make it, we too can. We hail Hayden Bay and let them know we “are going in”. I take the helm, Maureen prepares the camera to document Destiny’s first trip through. Ever so slowly, we make our way towards the southern entrance. We see a very large standing wave at the far north end. In the wave are numerous very large logs swirling about. There is no turning back now.
I push the throttle completely forward thankful for all 380 HP the Cummins is delivering at this point. I aim to the starboard side of the channel hoping to miss the logs. As it is, the current has a different thought for these menaces and moves them further to our port.
We burst through the standing wave with spray reaching the fly bridge. We give a whoop and holler as we clear the confines of the narrows. Now it is Hayden Bays turn. We fill Marcus in as to what to expect. Using the VHF, we walk him through, updating him as to the location of the logs. With Hayden Bay turning full power, she too punches through the wave. We give each other a thumb’s up and point our bows towards Nanaimo. Our intended destination for this evening.
As we approach Nanaimo, I contact the Port Authority on the VHF establishing our slip assignments for the night. Maureen takes Destiny in while I prepare the lines and fenders. She will have to navigate a long narrow fairway and then parallel dock on the pier. A female dockhand awaits our arrival to assist with securing our lines. When she sees Maureen at the helm she gives a holler out that she “loves to see the boss at the helm”!
Maureen makes a flawless landing ever so gently bringing Destiny alongside.
Marcus choses to back down the fairway to make for an easier exit when it comes time to depart. He too has no issues with making it to the dock for a flawless landing.
This evening we will dine at Penny’s Palapa. This is a great little floating Mexican Restaurant. Coincidently it is right next to where we have secured Destiny.
Prior to registering for the evening, we check the morning forecast. It is expected to be blowing at 25 knots plus in the morning; we make the decision that we will spend two nights at Nanaimo. All the better as we need to provision and would also like to get a couple of loads of laundry done.
Next Stop, Drew Harbor!
We make our way out of Nanaimo at 5:45. The sun glows bright orange on the eastern shore of the Straits of Georgia. While the winds are still gusting, they are beginning to clock around to the west. This will give us a smoother ride, as we will have the waves on the bow.
As we make the turn and begin taking on the worse of it, Marcus calls out that their tender has snapped the lifting block on its stern davit. The tender swings precariously from its bow davit slamming into Hayden Bay’s stern. They are now in danger of it breaking the stern thruster loose, which could potentially cause catastrophic flooding of Hayden Bay. Jorge is forced to go to the cockpit to deal with a pitching rolling tender while Marcus points Hayden Bay’s bow toward the northern entrance to Nanaimo. They must get out of these massive 6 to 8 foot waves as quickly as possible.
At last, Marcus is able to make it to the safety of Departure Bay. They will raise their tender to the roof for the remainder of the ride. The failure of the block on the davit has set us back two hours. As it is a 12-hour cruise to Drew Harbor, we start looking at our options. We change our plan and now we will make for Tribune Bay on Hornby Island.
We depart Nanaimo for the second time today. As we round the point and head north we begin to pick up 8 to 10 foot seas. Fortunately most are spaced far enough apart that we only bury the bow three times. We had planned for a rough trip so all was secure prior to leaving port. All drawers and cabinets locked. Anything that could fall or become a projectile is taken down and secured. PFD’s are worn.
We battle these seas for five hours. At last, things begin to smooth out. We now run in four-foot seas. I take the helm while Maureen prepares lunch. The wind continues to diminish. It is not long and the water is like a mirror. Once again, I am amazed by the force that nature has and how she can change your environment is such a way in such as short period of time.
It is now 16:00, we approach Tribune Bay. A dozen other vessels swing on their hooks. We chose a nice little spot on the east side.
With the anchor down, we move to Destiny’s fly bridge enjoying the sunshine, warm breezes, and each other’s company.
We make our way out of Nanaimo at 5:45. The sun glows bright orange on the eastern shore of the Straits of Georgia. While the winds are still gusting, they are beginning to clock around to the west. This will give us a smoother ride, as we will have the waves on the bow.
As we make the turn and begin taking on the worse of it, Marcus calls out that their tender has snapped the lifting block on its stern davit. The tender swings precariously from its bow davit slamming into Hayden Bay’s stern. They are now in danger of it breaking the stern thruster loose, which could potentially cause catastrophic flooding of Hayden Bay. Jorge is forced to go to the cockpit to deal with a pitching rolling tender while Marcus points Hayden Bay’s bow toward the northern entrance to Nanaimo. They must get out of these massive 6 to 8 foot waves as quickly as possible.
At last, Marcus is able to make it to the safety of Departure Bay. They will raise their tender to the roof for the remainder of the ride. The failure of the block on the davit has set us back two hours. As it is a 12-hour cruise to Drew Harbor, we start looking at our options. We change our plan and now we will make for Tribune Bay on Hornby Island.
We depart Nanaimo for the second time today. As we round the point and head north we begin to pick up 8 to 10 foot seas. Fortunately most are spaced far enough apart that we only bury the bow three times. We had planned for a rough trip so all was secure prior to leaving port. All drawers and cabinets locked. Anything that could fall or become a projectile is taken down and secured. PFD’s are worn.
We battle these seas for five hours. At last, things begin to smooth out. We now run in four-foot seas. I take the helm while Maureen prepares lunch. The wind continues to diminish. It is not long and the water is like a mirror. Once again, I am amazed by the force that nature has and how she can change your environment is such a way in such as short period of time.
It is now 16:00, we approach Tribune Bay. A dozen other vessels swing on their hooks. We chose a nice little spot on the east side.
With the anchor down, we move to Destiny’s fly bridge enjoying the sunshine, warm breezes, and each other’s company.
Gorge Harbor, Cortes Island
With a run of 65 miles to Surge Narrows, we make the decision to head to Gorge Harbor for the night. Destiny’s lines are brought back aboard. At the helm, Maureen guides her out of Tribune Bay. We round the southern point and make our way north. We are greeted with three to four foot rollers. Nothing we cannot handle after yesterdays adventure. We run up the west side of the Straits. Very few others chose to do so. We have the strait to ourselves!
The further north we go, the smoother the water becomes until it is flat calm. The sunshine has raised the temperature to a beautiful 78 degrees. Deep blue skies with just streaks of wispy clouds make for an incredible day of navigating from the fly-bridge.
The entrance to Gorge is really quite impressive. You enter through the sheer rock walls just 600 feet apart. We enter on a flood current. Our speed accelerates from 3.5 knots to just over 7! And all the while we are still just idling!
Once inside, you enter a very large bay with numerous islands and rocky outcroppings. Homes are scattered along the shoreline. Oystermen scurry about in their small runabouts.
The water is very deep here in Gorge. Locating a place to set down the Rocna takes a bit of time. At last we find the perfect location. We are tucked down in the northeast corner of the harbor. This location will afford us sunshine until late in the day.
With a run of 65 miles to Surge Narrows, we make the decision to head to Gorge Harbor for the night. Destiny’s lines are brought back aboard. At the helm, Maureen guides her out of Tribune Bay. We round the southern point and make our way north. We are greeted with three to four foot rollers. Nothing we cannot handle after yesterdays adventure. We run up the west side of the Straits. Very few others chose to do so. We have the strait to ourselves!
The further north we go, the smoother the water becomes until it is flat calm. The sunshine has raised the temperature to a beautiful 78 degrees. Deep blue skies with just streaks of wispy clouds make for an incredible day of navigating from the fly-bridge.
The entrance to Gorge is really quite impressive. You enter through the sheer rock walls just 600 feet apart. We enter on a flood current. Our speed accelerates from 3.5 knots to just over 7! And all the while we are still just idling!
Once inside, you enter a very large bay with numerous islands and rocky outcroppings. Homes are scattered along the shoreline. Oystermen scurry about in their small runabouts.
The water is very deep here in Gorge. Locating a place to set down the Rocna takes a bit of time. At last we find the perfect location. We are tucked down in the northeast corner of the harbor. This location will afford us sunshine until late in the day.
Von Dolop Inlet
We spy the entrance to Von Donop from a quarter mile out. There is a certain calm and serenity now. We have just one other boat in sight, a single sailboat also preparing to enter.
At the mouth of the inlet sits a very large Eagle as if he is the sentry of the inlet. We take this as a good sign.
Following the lone sailboat, we make our way up the long narrow entrance of Von Donop Inlet. Sailboats now outnumber the powerboats. Trawlers out number the big gas guzzling go fast boats. The further north you go, the more expensive fuel becomes, the fewer fuel guzzling boats you see… It seems everyone now wants to slow down, enjoy the scenery and save fuel.
With the hook down and all secured, we drop the kayaks in. We make our way to shore for an afternoon hike. We head out across the island toward Squirrel Cove. After going 5 km, we decide to turn back. We arrive back at the inlet to find our kayaks now afloat. And to think, we had carried them 150 feet up the beach securing them to a tree.
Upon our return, Maureen and Marcus prepare a nice dinner while Jorge and I store all of the kayaks. The evening is spent in Destiny’s wheelhouse taking in the views with good friends.
5:00 am; I sit in the cockpit enjoying the serenity of the location. A lone kayaker paddles ever so quietly across the surface. The sun just begins to makes its appearance highlighting the tips of the tallest trees. A lone wolf calls out somewhere on the island. While we may have another dozen vessels anchored with us in the bay, at this moment, it is all mine. For everyone else remains nestled in their warm and secure bunks.
We spy the entrance to Von Donop from a quarter mile out. There is a certain calm and serenity now. We have just one other boat in sight, a single sailboat also preparing to enter.
At the mouth of the inlet sits a very large Eagle as if he is the sentry of the inlet. We take this as a good sign.
Following the lone sailboat, we make our way up the long narrow entrance of Von Donop Inlet. Sailboats now outnumber the powerboats. Trawlers out number the big gas guzzling go fast boats. The further north you go, the more expensive fuel becomes, the fewer fuel guzzling boats you see… It seems everyone now wants to slow down, enjoy the scenery and save fuel.
With the hook down and all secured, we drop the kayaks in. We make our way to shore for an afternoon hike. We head out across the island toward Squirrel Cove. After going 5 km, we decide to turn back. We arrive back at the inlet to find our kayaks now afloat. And to think, we had carried them 150 feet up the beach securing them to a tree.
Upon our return, Maureen and Marcus prepare a nice dinner while Jorge and I store all of the kayaks. The evening is spent in Destiny’s wheelhouse taking in the views with good friends.
5:00 am; I sit in the cockpit enjoying the serenity of the location. A lone kayaker paddles ever so quietly across the surface. The sun just begins to makes its appearance highlighting the tips of the tallest trees. A lone wolf calls out somewhere on the island. While we may have another dozen vessels anchored with us in the bay, at this moment, it is all mine. For everyone else remains nestled in their warm and secure bunks.
Octopus Island
We plan our departure from Von Donop to coincide with the slack at Beazley Pass and Surge Narrows. We give ourselves a 15-minute cushion to insure we arrive early. As fate has it, we have a push current shaving time off of the trip. We keep the RPM’s down trying to manage an average speed of 5.5 knots.
As we make our way, we are in the company of four sailboats that seem to also be heading to Beazley.
We arrive at the narrows 30 minutes early. We hold station keeping an eye on the sailboats. As soon as the first one makes his way in, the others follow. Once again we decide that if they can go through, we can too.
We give the security call on channel 16 letting others on the north side know we are coming through. I point our bow at the opening and bring up the RPM’s. With a push current, we want to make sure we have steerage.
Beazley Pass is very intimidating in appearance. It appears very narrow when in fact it is not. When approaching from the south, there is a rock on the north side that you have to be careful to keep on your starboard side.
Destiny clears the pass and three southbound vessels now take their turn to transit. Once they clear, Marcus brings Hayden Bay through. We are now 30 minutes from the northern most position of this years cruise.
Two of the sailboats make their way toward Octopus Island. I follow in their wakes, as the entrance looks very dicey. Rocks are strewn about. Channels are very narrow. I keep our speed at idle. The bottom continues to rise up until we have just ten feet of water below our keel. Then it simply falls away and we are in waters that are over 100 feet deep again.
We work our way to the north checking out all of the little nooks and crannies. We settle on one that looks very tight. Marcus sends Jorge in on Hayden Bays tender to check it out. He gives us the go ahead that all is good.
Maureen guides Destiny in through the miniscule opening while I keep a close lookout from the bow for rocks. Once through, I prepare the fenders and lines. We will drop our anchor and then secure a stern line. Once all is secure, Marcus will bring Hayden Bay in and repeat the process. We will raft our tiny two ships together for a glorious two days in the Octopus Islands before starting our trek south.
With all secure, we drop the kayaks into the water and set off to explore. We spend three hour paddling in and out of the little channels and bays. The beauty of this area is bar none the most incredible we have seen. It seems, whichever direction you look, a snow-covered mountain rise’s from the sea. An eagle soars overhead. Deer walk along the shoreline not caring that we are right there.
We spend a leisurely second day at Octopus relaxing and working on small boat projects. The weather is incredible. Deep blue sky. Temperatures in the seventy’s. A light breeze just rustles the treetops.
Late afternoon arrives and we head out in the kayaks. We once again paddle between islands and into little bays. We marvel at the solitude that this area offers. I am told that these islands can get very crowded in peak season yet, today there are no more than a dozen other vessels anchored throughout the entire area.
Once we return to our little ships, I prepare her for tomorrow’s journey. The kayaks are lifted out, cleaned, and secured to their racks. As I am doing so, a sailboat enters our little lagoon. I recognize it as belonging to Al and Lou, our old dock neighbors at Shilshole! What a small world. We are three hundred miles north of Seattle, in the middle of some of the remotest waters there are and, a boat comes in that we know!
I call out and give a wave. Once they have secured their vessel. Al paddles over in their tender. He tells us of the great summer they have had so far. They have been out since early June traveling as far north as the Broughton’s. Now, they are making their way south to Seattle again.
We plan our departure from Von Donop to coincide with the slack at Beazley Pass and Surge Narrows. We give ourselves a 15-minute cushion to insure we arrive early. As fate has it, we have a push current shaving time off of the trip. We keep the RPM’s down trying to manage an average speed of 5.5 knots.
As we make our way, we are in the company of four sailboats that seem to also be heading to Beazley.
We arrive at the narrows 30 minutes early. We hold station keeping an eye on the sailboats. As soon as the first one makes his way in, the others follow. Once again we decide that if they can go through, we can too.
We give the security call on channel 16 letting others on the north side know we are coming through. I point our bow at the opening and bring up the RPM’s. With a push current, we want to make sure we have steerage.
Beazley Pass is very intimidating in appearance. It appears very narrow when in fact it is not. When approaching from the south, there is a rock on the north side that you have to be careful to keep on your starboard side.
Destiny clears the pass and three southbound vessels now take their turn to transit. Once they clear, Marcus brings Hayden Bay through. We are now 30 minutes from the northern most position of this years cruise.
Two of the sailboats make their way toward Octopus Island. I follow in their wakes, as the entrance looks very dicey. Rocks are strewn about. Channels are very narrow. I keep our speed at idle. The bottom continues to rise up until we have just ten feet of water below our keel. Then it simply falls away and we are in waters that are over 100 feet deep again.
We work our way to the north checking out all of the little nooks and crannies. We settle on one that looks very tight. Marcus sends Jorge in on Hayden Bays tender to check it out. He gives us the go ahead that all is good.
Maureen guides Destiny in through the miniscule opening while I keep a close lookout from the bow for rocks. Once through, I prepare the fenders and lines. We will drop our anchor and then secure a stern line. Once all is secure, Marcus will bring Hayden Bay in and repeat the process. We will raft our tiny two ships together for a glorious two days in the Octopus Islands before starting our trek south.
With all secure, we drop the kayaks into the water and set off to explore. We spend three hour paddling in and out of the little channels and bays. The beauty of this area is bar none the most incredible we have seen. It seems, whichever direction you look, a snow-covered mountain rise’s from the sea. An eagle soars overhead. Deer walk along the shoreline not caring that we are right there.
We spend a leisurely second day at Octopus relaxing and working on small boat projects. The weather is incredible. Deep blue sky. Temperatures in the seventy’s. A light breeze just rustles the treetops.
Late afternoon arrives and we head out in the kayaks. We once again paddle between islands and into little bays. We marvel at the solitude that this area offers. I am told that these islands can get very crowded in peak season yet, today there are no more than a dozen other vessels anchored throughout the entire area.
Once we return to our little ships, I prepare her for tomorrow’s journey. The kayaks are lifted out, cleaned, and secured to their racks. As I am doing so, a sailboat enters our little lagoon. I recognize it as belonging to Al and Lou, our old dock neighbors at Shilshole! What a small world. We are three hundred miles north of Seattle, in the middle of some of the remotest waters there are and, a boat comes in that we know!
I call out and give a wave. Once they have secured their vessel. Al paddles over in their tender. He tells us of the great summer they have had so far. They have been out since early June traveling as far north as the Broughton’s. Now, they are making their way south to Seattle again.
Walsh Cove Marine Park
We depart Octopus at 6:30 making our way out the narrow channel. We will transit through “Hole in the Wall” pass this morning. We must arrive before slack to insure a safe passage. The currents flow through here at over ten knots on a flood. We check the current status on our Garmin Plotter. It tells us they are still flowing at over four knots. We will wait until the drop to three and then go through. It does not take long. Within fifteen minutes we are heading in. We see our speed go from 4.5 knots to close to 8. Other than the push though, the passage is very simple.
Our cruise to Walsh Cove takes us through incredible waterways. Mountains soar high above. We make notes on the charts to the numerous little bays and coves that could provide an anchorage in the future. Upon our arrival at Walsh, we are greeted with the view of a 31m Exploration style yacht, the M/V Atlas.
Locating a spot in which to drop the hook and stern tie is not easy here. The water is over seventy feet deep to within 20 feet of the shoreline. At last a location is found. Hayden Bay drops her hook and then runs a stern line. Maureen positions Destiny and I drop our hook. We back down to Hayden Bay as I deploy anchor chain. Slowly we bring the two little ships together.
It is now time to go exploring. We drop the kayaks in the water and head out. The scenery is incredible. Eagles soar overhead; mountains rise out of the sea. After paddling about for a couple of hours we head back. Once the kayaks are stored, we head to the fly bridge to enjoy a bottle of wine.
The crew of Atlas treat us to one of the most incredible sights we have ever seen. They have been out fishing all day. Now they clean the incredibly large salmon they have caught on the swim platform. One of the crewmembers gives out a loud whistle and holds a salmon carcass over his head. He then throws it high in the air and to our amazement, a very large Eagle swoops down from above and grabs it! Never have we seen such a thing. What a great way to end another spectacular day!
We depart Octopus at 6:30 making our way out the narrow channel. We will transit through “Hole in the Wall” pass this morning. We must arrive before slack to insure a safe passage. The currents flow through here at over ten knots on a flood. We check the current status on our Garmin Plotter. It tells us they are still flowing at over four knots. We will wait until the drop to three and then go through. It does not take long. Within fifteen minutes we are heading in. We see our speed go from 4.5 knots to close to 8. Other than the push though, the passage is very simple.
Our cruise to Walsh Cove takes us through incredible waterways. Mountains soar high above. We make notes on the charts to the numerous little bays and coves that could provide an anchorage in the future. Upon our arrival at Walsh, we are greeted with the view of a 31m Exploration style yacht, the M/V Atlas.
Locating a spot in which to drop the hook and stern tie is not easy here. The water is over seventy feet deep to within 20 feet of the shoreline. At last a location is found. Hayden Bay drops her hook and then runs a stern line. Maureen positions Destiny and I drop our hook. We back down to Hayden Bay as I deploy anchor chain. Slowly we bring the two little ships together.
It is now time to go exploring. We drop the kayaks in the water and head out. The scenery is incredible. Eagles soar overhead; mountains rise out of the sea. After paddling about for a couple of hours we head back. Once the kayaks are stored, we head to the fly bridge to enjoy a bottle of wine.
The crew of Atlas treat us to one of the most incredible sights we have ever seen. They have been out fishing all day. Now they clean the incredibly large salmon they have caught on the swim platform. One of the crewmembers gives out a loud whistle and holds a salmon carcass over his head. He then throws it high in the air and to our amazement, a very large Eagle swoops down from above and grabs it! Never have we seen such a thing. What a great way to end another spectacular day!
Squirrel Cove
We make a mid morning departure from Walsh Cove. Our destination today is Squirrel Cove on Cortes Island. This positions us for an easy departure in the morning to Cortes Bay. Maureen will board a seaplane there and head south first to Seattle and then onto Denver. We make the best of the day, as it is our last together on this voyage.
We enter Squirrel Cove selecting a location in the southeast corner in which to spend the night. Hayden Bay drops her hook. Maureen brings Destiny in alongside. With lines secure, we all pile into Hayden Bay’s tender and head over to the Squirrel Cove Store and Restaurant.
We dine on great fresh seafood accompanied by a beautiful bottle of wine. Not only is the food incredible, the service is over the top and the view. Well let’s just say there is not a restaurant anywhere else that I have been that has a view such as this.
We make a mid morning departure from Walsh Cove. Our destination today is Squirrel Cove on Cortes Island. This positions us for an easy departure in the morning to Cortes Bay. Maureen will board a seaplane there and head south first to Seattle and then onto Denver. We make the best of the day, as it is our last together on this voyage.
We enter Squirrel Cove selecting a location in the southeast corner in which to spend the night. Hayden Bay drops her hook. Maureen brings Destiny in alongside. With lines secure, we all pile into Hayden Bay’s tender and head over to the Squirrel Cove Store and Restaurant.
We dine on great fresh seafood accompanied by a beautiful bottle of wine. Not only is the food incredible, the service is over the top and the view. Well let’s just say there is not a restaurant anywhere else that I have been that has a view such as this.
Grace Harbour
With morning comes the final day for Maureen on this trip. At 10:30, we cast our line from Hayden Bay and make our way to Cortes Harbor. Hopefully there will be a location on the government dock to secure Destiny while we wait for Maureen’s flight to come in.
We arrive and discover there is not space. We weigh our options. Do we drop the hook and dinghy in? Or, do we just secure to the end of the float where the seaplane will tie up. Once we see it coming through the pass, Maureen can step onto the dock and I can head out with Destiny. We decide this is the best plan however, as we head to the dock, her plane comes through the harbor entrance. Time for a new plan.
We wait until the plane is secure and then call out to the pilot to confirm he is there to pick up Maureen. He confirms he is. Now we must figure out how to get Maureen to the dock. There is about 18 feet of space between his wingtip and another boat on the dock. With a 14-foot beam, there is not much room for error.
We decide to go stern in, Maureen will step off of the swim platform and I will take Destiny out. We tell the pilot of our intentions. He is not thrilled as he is concerned for the safety of his plane. We assure him all will be well. Maureen backs to the dock as I call out directions. I toss the pilot our port line. He quickly secures it. I then step to the dock and secure the starboard line. Maureen steps onto the dock.
The pilot looks at Maureen and I and says he has never seen such teamwork. The wind begins to push Destiny toward the planes wing. It is time for me to go. I give Maureen a quick kiss and tell her that I love her. The pilot casts off the port line, Maureen the starboard and I pull away from the dock.
I stand off at the harbor entrance capturing pictures of Maureen’s plane taxing out and taking off. As it lifts off, a tear runs down my cheek. While we say goodbye each week as our jobs takes us off to different locations of this great country of ours, this time it is different. We have just spent an incredible two weeks together in some of the world’s most beautiful locations. Now she heads south by plane while I will bring Destiny home. Slowly I turn Destiny’s bow south to rendezvous with Jorge and Marcus at Grace Harbour. Together, we will continue our trip south.
With morning comes the final day for Maureen on this trip. At 10:30, we cast our line from Hayden Bay and make our way to Cortes Harbor. Hopefully there will be a location on the government dock to secure Destiny while we wait for Maureen’s flight to come in.
We arrive and discover there is not space. We weigh our options. Do we drop the hook and dinghy in? Or, do we just secure to the end of the float where the seaplane will tie up. Once we see it coming through the pass, Maureen can step onto the dock and I can head out with Destiny. We decide this is the best plan however, as we head to the dock, her plane comes through the harbor entrance. Time for a new plan.
We wait until the plane is secure and then call out to the pilot to confirm he is there to pick up Maureen. He confirms he is. Now we must figure out how to get Maureen to the dock. There is about 18 feet of space between his wingtip and another boat on the dock. With a 14-foot beam, there is not much room for error.
We decide to go stern in, Maureen will step off of the swim platform and I will take Destiny out. We tell the pilot of our intentions. He is not thrilled as he is concerned for the safety of his plane. We assure him all will be well. Maureen backs to the dock as I call out directions. I toss the pilot our port line. He quickly secures it. I then step to the dock and secure the starboard line. Maureen steps onto the dock.
The pilot looks at Maureen and I and says he has never seen such teamwork. The wind begins to push Destiny toward the planes wing. It is time for me to go. I give Maureen a quick kiss and tell her that I love her. The pilot casts off the port line, Maureen the starboard and I pull away from the dock.
I stand off at the harbor entrance capturing pictures of Maureen’s plane taxing out and taking off. As it lifts off, a tear runs down my cheek. While we say goodbye each week as our jobs takes us off to different locations of this great country of ours, this time it is different. We have just spent an incredible two weeks together in some of the world’s most beautiful locations. Now she heads south by plane while I will bring Destiny home. Slowly I turn Destiny’s bow south to rendezvous with Jorge and Marcus at Grace Harbour. Together, we will continue our trip south.
Southern Bound
Grace Harbor
Having just watched Maureen fly off on Kenmore Air out of Cortes Bay, I turn Destiny’s bow to the east and make my way to the Malaspina Inlet. I will reconnect with Jorge and Marcus in Cabin Cove. While I took Maureen to Cortes Harbor to catch her flight back to Seattle, Jorge and Marcus went ahead and made their way to Cabin Cove.
The skies were appropriately gray and overcast when Maureen stepped onto the dock. Now however, they have turned cobalt blue. A light breeze ruffles the water. The sun shines brightly overhead.
The run up Malaspina Inlet is amazing. The beauty of this location incredible. Islands as well as nooks and crannies abound. All offering great little hideaways in which only one or two boats can drop a hook.
I turn into Grace Harbor, immediately spying Hayden Bay tucked away in Cabin Cove. Hailing Jorge on the VHF, I let him know I have arrived. With their anchor set and a stern tie run, I simply need to back-down and secure.
With all secure, we grab a quick bite to eat, and then head out on our Kayaks. We will explore the other coves of the inlet. We paddle into the back cove of Grace. It is full of vessels. We are glad that we have selected the location we had.
After a few hours of Kayaking, we return to our vessels and find that we have been joined by one other sailboat. It appears to be a father and his teenage son out on an adventure of their own. Our little paradise is now full!
Having just watched Maureen fly off on Kenmore Air out of Cortes Bay, I turn Destiny’s bow to the east and make my way to the Malaspina Inlet. I will reconnect with Jorge and Marcus in Cabin Cove. While I took Maureen to Cortes Harbor to catch her flight back to Seattle, Jorge and Marcus went ahead and made their way to Cabin Cove.
The skies were appropriately gray and overcast when Maureen stepped onto the dock. Now however, they have turned cobalt blue. A light breeze ruffles the water. The sun shines brightly overhead.
The run up Malaspina Inlet is amazing. The beauty of this location incredible. Islands as well as nooks and crannies abound. All offering great little hideaways in which only one or two boats can drop a hook.
I turn into Grace Harbor, immediately spying Hayden Bay tucked away in Cabin Cove. Hailing Jorge on the VHF, I let him know I have arrived. With their anchor set and a stern tie run, I simply need to back-down and secure.
With all secure, we grab a quick bite to eat, and then head out on our Kayaks. We will explore the other coves of the inlet. We paddle into the back cove of Grace. It is full of vessels. We are glad that we have selected the location we had.
After a few hours of Kayaking, we return to our vessels and find that we have been joined by one other sailboat. It appears to be a father and his teenage son out on an adventure of their own. Our little paradise is now full!
Copeland Islands
I awaken the next morning to something that I have never heard before. Complete and utter silence. Not a single sound could be heard. Not a ripple of water on the hull. Not an airplane or boat could be heard. Not a single person speaking. The birds were even silent. Nowhere before, have I heard such silence. Only in such a place could such an event take place.
We depart Grace Harbor under blue skies and sunshine. We make our way out into the Straits of Georgia and south to the Copeland Islands. Our plan is, I will check out the west side of the islands while Jorge and Marcus check out the east. I locate an ideal anchorage that will not allow more than a handful of boats. I hail Hayden Bay on the VHF and tell them of my findings. They make their way to my little hideaway. Once they have their anchor set and stern line ashore, I back Destiny down and secure alongside.
Our little hideaway is an incredible bay away from the wakes and noise of the Thulin Passage. We are able to just sit back and take in the sheer beauty of the location. We spend two days just relaxing and kayaking this great location.
Our second evening in the Copeland’s treats us to the most incredible sight of the entire trip.
The sun begins to set. Quickly it becomes one of the absolutely most incredible sunsets we have ever seen in our lives. The sky is alive in brilliant shades of gold’s and yellows. Then slowly, ever so slowly, it becomes the most amazing shades of lavenders and pinks ever seen. It is absolutely amazing! We simply sit in the wheelhouse and stare.
I awaken the next morning to something that I have never heard before. Complete and utter silence. Not a single sound could be heard. Not a ripple of water on the hull. Not an airplane or boat could be heard. Not a single person speaking. The birds were even silent. Nowhere before, have I heard such silence. Only in such a place could such an event take place.
We depart Grace Harbor under blue skies and sunshine. We make our way out into the Straits of Georgia and south to the Copeland Islands. Our plan is, I will check out the west side of the islands while Jorge and Marcus check out the east. I locate an ideal anchorage that will not allow more than a handful of boats. I hail Hayden Bay on the VHF and tell them of my findings. They make their way to my little hideaway. Once they have their anchor set and stern line ashore, I back Destiny down and secure alongside.
Our little hideaway is an incredible bay away from the wakes and noise of the Thulin Passage. We are able to just sit back and take in the sheer beauty of the location. We spend two days just relaxing and kayaking this great location.
Our second evening in the Copeland’s treats us to the most incredible sight of the entire trip.
The sun begins to set. Quickly it becomes one of the absolutely most incredible sunsets we have ever seen in our lives. The sky is alive in brilliant shades of gold’s and yellows. Then slowly, ever so slowly, it becomes the most amazing shades of lavenders and pinks ever seen. It is absolutely amazing! We simply sit in the wheelhouse and stare.
Egmont, Backeddy Marina
The trip starts out smooth and then, it seems as if all hell breaks loose. As we round Grief Point, we start picking up wind waves of four to five feet on the forward qtr. We continued to push on. When we close to within a mile of Jervis Inlet, the waves suddenly become very steep and confused. Quickly they build to the 10 to 12 foot range.
Then, when I do not think it can get worse, it does. The autopilot decides it has had enough and decides to take the seas on the beam. At first, I do not realize what is going on. Once I realize what is happening, I quickly put the autopilot into standby mode.
With the autopilot in standby mode, I attempt to round back up into the waves, however I have lost steerage. I fight to regain control but to no avail. I increase the RPM’s forcing more water over the rudder hoping that it will bite. It does not. I continue fighting the helm attempting to make it round up into the giant seas. Destiny rolls forty-five degrees to the starboard and then forty-five degrees to the port. All the while, quickly approaching the lee shore.
Quickly I realize, there is a very good chance Destiny and I are going to end up on the rocks. I will ride her out, not giving up the fight until I feel the first jarring effect of hitting solid rock. Thankfully I always wear my PFD when I am single handling Destiny.
I continue to fight, not wanting to give up. I know I am on my own. There will be no way that Hayden Bay can put themselves between me and the shore if I chose to go in early. That would put two vessels at risk along with three lives. Then I notice the autopilot has turned itself back on thus, not allowing me to take complete control. I quickly shut it down completely.
Suddenly, I am once again in control. I put the helm over hard. She responds and we are now taking the waves on the forward starboard once again. I breath a sigh of relief, we have survived the ordeal in one piece. However we still have another four miles until we reach the shelter of Hardy Island.
Now that I am back in control, I call out to Hayden Bay on the VHF. Jorge quickly inquires as to what happened. I explain the best I can as it is taking all I have to keep Destiny pointed in the right direction. Waves are coming at us from all angles.
I inform Hayden Bay that I am heading for Hardy Island. If the waters calm before I reach the opening, I will make the turn toward Egmont and carry on. If not, I will be dropping the hook in the Hardy.
I close to within a half mile of Hardy Island. The seas calm to a placid three to four foot swells. I point Destiny’s bow east toward Egmont. While we still have a twelve-mile run, at least it will be on settled waters. That is of course, you consider three to four foot seas as settled.
The run up Jervis is incredible. I spy a giant waterfall from four miles out. It appears to plug over a thousand feet into the trees. I marvel at the sight for over an hour as I slowly make my way east.
As I approach Egmont, I call out to the Backeddy Marina for a slip assignment. Once I have my assignment, I make a pass by the marina to check out the currents and winds. If you have never been to this location, I would suggest you read your cruising guides. They all warn of currents of up to five knots flowing through the marina. Once I determine I will be approaching with the current on the bow, I prepare my lines and fenders. With Hayden Bay already secured to the dock, Jorge as well as the dockhand await my arrival. Slowly I approach the end of the dock. The SOG was one knot while the STW is five! I close the dock and toss Jorge the bowline. The dockhand grabs the stern. At last, this day has come to an end with Destiny firmly and securely tied to the dock!
The next order of business is to rinse off all the salt. Once this is done, it will be time for a cocktail (or two…).
My evening is not quite as restful as I would hope for after the day I had just had. I am sleeping ever so soundly in the comfort of our berth when suddenly; I was startled awake by the screen on the overhead hatch slamming open. I lay there in bewilderment for a moment trying to figure out what has happened.
Quickly I jump out of bed and head for the wheelhouse. I look forward at the hatch, it is quickly apparent as to what happened. I have had visitors in the night!
Raccoon tracks cover the foredeck. One had obviously thought about coming inside. However, when he pushed on the screen, it opened with a bang startling him as much as me. Other than their little paw tracks in the dew, there is no further sign of them. Before returning to bed though, I close the hatch.
I awaken a few hours later to an incredible sunrise. Rays of gold and amber streaming through the mountain passes. An eagle soars high overhead. Heavy dew covers the deck. The sun glistens off of the wetness. I get up and put on the kettle to make a pot of coffee. Sitting in the wheelhouse, I take in the beauty that surrounds me.
Our plan for today is to make the hike to the Skookumchuck Rapids. Along the way, we will make a stop at the Greer Rosette Bake Shop to enjoy one of their delicious baked treats. While I have not been there, I have been lured and tempted by all those that have. They talk of the wonderful baked good that can be found there.
We set off late morning after a wonderful breakfast at the West Coast Wilderness Lodge. The views from the deck of the lodge are incredible. Mountains rising out of the sea. Eagles overhead. Hummingbirds darting to and fro.
The hike to the rapids will take you close to an hour through an amazing rainforest. The reward is halfway there; you will come across the bakery. As we make our way, Marcus talks of the incredible Cinnamon Rolls that we will enjoy. At last, we arrive at the bakery. Disappointment immediately sets in. It seems that the owners have bought themselves a new boat. Now they have their priorities in order. They boat four days per week and bake three. We just happened to arrive on a “boating day”. Oh well, there will be a next time.
We continue our trek through the rainforest. At last we arrive. While the full flood has yet to set, the rapids are beginning to build. We take a seat on the bank and watch two Kayaker’s play in the surf. It is amazing watching them paddle up stream against the current. When they tire, they simply let the current carry them back down stream. It finally gets to a point that it is simply too much for them. They must retreat to the safety of the shore.
As we wait, more and more people arrive. The rapids build to an incredible six feet. I take a position low on the bank to capture photos. I am looking up at the water! At last we have reached full flood! The water is rushing through the narrows at over nine knots! To think, a couple of hour’s earlier; boats such as ours passed this very spot.
We start the hike back to the marina stopping at the Egmont Store to enjoy an ice cream. Over ice cream, we decide that we will dine this evening at the West Coast Wilderness Lodge. While we thought breakfast was good, dinner was incredible!
The trip starts out smooth and then, it seems as if all hell breaks loose. As we round Grief Point, we start picking up wind waves of four to five feet on the forward qtr. We continued to push on. When we close to within a mile of Jervis Inlet, the waves suddenly become very steep and confused. Quickly they build to the 10 to 12 foot range.
Then, when I do not think it can get worse, it does. The autopilot decides it has had enough and decides to take the seas on the beam. At first, I do not realize what is going on. Once I realize what is happening, I quickly put the autopilot into standby mode.
With the autopilot in standby mode, I attempt to round back up into the waves, however I have lost steerage. I fight to regain control but to no avail. I increase the RPM’s forcing more water over the rudder hoping that it will bite. It does not. I continue fighting the helm attempting to make it round up into the giant seas. Destiny rolls forty-five degrees to the starboard and then forty-five degrees to the port. All the while, quickly approaching the lee shore.
Quickly I realize, there is a very good chance Destiny and I are going to end up on the rocks. I will ride her out, not giving up the fight until I feel the first jarring effect of hitting solid rock. Thankfully I always wear my PFD when I am single handling Destiny.
I continue to fight, not wanting to give up. I know I am on my own. There will be no way that Hayden Bay can put themselves between me and the shore if I chose to go in early. That would put two vessels at risk along with three lives. Then I notice the autopilot has turned itself back on thus, not allowing me to take complete control. I quickly shut it down completely.
Suddenly, I am once again in control. I put the helm over hard. She responds and we are now taking the waves on the forward starboard once again. I breath a sigh of relief, we have survived the ordeal in one piece. However we still have another four miles until we reach the shelter of Hardy Island.
Now that I am back in control, I call out to Hayden Bay on the VHF. Jorge quickly inquires as to what happened. I explain the best I can as it is taking all I have to keep Destiny pointed in the right direction. Waves are coming at us from all angles.
I inform Hayden Bay that I am heading for Hardy Island. If the waters calm before I reach the opening, I will make the turn toward Egmont and carry on. If not, I will be dropping the hook in the Hardy.
I close to within a half mile of Hardy Island. The seas calm to a placid three to four foot swells. I point Destiny’s bow east toward Egmont. While we still have a twelve-mile run, at least it will be on settled waters. That is of course, you consider three to four foot seas as settled.
The run up Jervis is incredible. I spy a giant waterfall from four miles out. It appears to plug over a thousand feet into the trees. I marvel at the sight for over an hour as I slowly make my way east.
As I approach Egmont, I call out to the Backeddy Marina for a slip assignment. Once I have my assignment, I make a pass by the marina to check out the currents and winds. If you have never been to this location, I would suggest you read your cruising guides. They all warn of currents of up to five knots flowing through the marina. Once I determine I will be approaching with the current on the bow, I prepare my lines and fenders. With Hayden Bay already secured to the dock, Jorge as well as the dockhand await my arrival. Slowly I approach the end of the dock. The SOG was one knot while the STW is five! I close the dock and toss Jorge the bowline. The dockhand grabs the stern. At last, this day has come to an end with Destiny firmly and securely tied to the dock!
The next order of business is to rinse off all the salt. Once this is done, it will be time for a cocktail (or two…).
My evening is not quite as restful as I would hope for after the day I had just had. I am sleeping ever so soundly in the comfort of our berth when suddenly; I was startled awake by the screen on the overhead hatch slamming open. I lay there in bewilderment for a moment trying to figure out what has happened.
Quickly I jump out of bed and head for the wheelhouse. I look forward at the hatch, it is quickly apparent as to what happened. I have had visitors in the night!
Raccoon tracks cover the foredeck. One had obviously thought about coming inside. However, when he pushed on the screen, it opened with a bang startling him as much as me. Other than their little paw tracks in the dew, there is no further sign of them. Before returning to bed though, I close the hatch.
I awaken a few hours later to an incredible sunrise. Rays of gold and amber streaming through the mountain passes. An eagle soars high overhead. Heavy dew covers the deck. The sun glistens off of the wetness. I get up and put on the kettle to make a pot of coffee. Sitting in the wheelhouse, I take in the beauty that surrounds me.
Our plan for today is to make the hike to the Skookumchuck Rapids. Along the way, we will make a stop at the Greer Rosette Bake Shop to enjoy one of their delicious baked treats. While I have not been there, I have been lured and tempted by all those that have. They talk of the wonderful baked good that can be found there.
We set off late morning after a wonderful breakfast at the West Coast Wilderness Lodge. The views from the deck of the lodge are incredible. Mountains rising out of the sea. Eagles overhead. Hummingbirds darting to and fro.
The hike to the rapids will take you close to an hour through an amazing rainforest. The reward is halfway there; you will come across the bakery. As we make our way, Marcus talks of the incredible Cinnamon Rolls that we will enjoy. At last, we arrive at the bakery. Disappointment immediately sets in. It seems that the owners have bought themselves a new boat. Now they have their priorities in order. They boat four days per week and bake three. We just happened to arrive on a “boating day”. Oh well, there will be a next time.
We continue our trek through the rainforest. At last we arrive. While the full flood has yet to set, the rapids are beginning to build. We take a seat on the bank and watch two Kayaker’s play in the surf. It is amazing watching them paddle up stream against the current. When they tire, they simply let the current carry them back down stream. It finally gets to a point that it is simply too much for them. They must retreat to the safety of the shore.
As we wait, more and more people arrive. The rapids build to an incredible six feet. I take a position low on the bank to capture photos. I am looking up at the water! At last we have reached full flood! The water is rushing through the narrows at over nine knots! To think, a couple of hour’s earlier; boats such as ours passed this very spot.
We start the hike back to the marina stopping at the Egmont Store to enjoy an ice cream. Over ice cream, we decide that we will dine this evening at the West Coast Wilderness Lodge. While we thought breakfast was good, dinner was incredible!
Bowen Island
It is 5:30. The sun has yet to make it’s way over the mountain peaks. Rays of gold and yellow streak across the sky overhead. I prepare two pots of coffee. One for the crew of Hayden Bay, the other for myself. With coffee in hand, we shove off for our continued journey south. Today’s destination will bring us even closer to civilization. Mannion Bay on Bowen Island is our intended destination.
Our journey takes us down the Agamemnon Channel and out into the Malaspina Strait. I take advantage to the mirror smooth water and straight as an arrow run to prepare a quick breakfast burrito.
We make the turn into Malaspina Strait and are met with two to three foot swells. Nothing we cannot handle. I set my course for Bowen Island and sit back in the helm seat watching the world simply pass by. The further south we go, the more marine traffic we face. We are headed back into reality!
We arrive at Mannion Bay and are quickly disappointed with what we see. While Dreamspeaker and Wagoner’s talk of the beauty of this location, they both fail to mention that it is filled with derelict live-aboard vessels.
I take Destiny in while Hayden Bay stands off outside. It is a very eerie feeling passing between these vessels. The inhabitants peak out windows and companionways never fully exposing themselves. I would not feel comfortable going ashore and leaving Destiny in this location.
I head back out of the bay and come alongside Hayden Bay. I express my concern for the safety of our vessels and we make the decision to head to Halkett Bay on Gambier Island.
We arrive at Halkett Bay and select a location deep inside. You must be very careful where you set your hook in this bay. There are rocks that will make their appearance on low tide.
We have a wonderful evening enjoying a great sunset. Tomorrow, we will temporarily part ways. I will head off to Vancouver, Hayden Bay will continue exploring Howe Sound as well as Indian Arm.
It is 5:30. The sun has yet to make it’s way over the mountain peaks. Rays of gold and yellow streak across the sky overhead. I prepare two pots of coffee. One for the crew of Hayden Bay, the other for myself. With coffee in hand, we shove off for our continued journey south. Today’s destination will bring us even closer to civilization. Mannion Bay on Bowen Island is our intended destination.
Our journey takes us down the Agamemnon Channel and out into the Malaspina Strait. I take advantage to the mirror smooth water and straight as an arrow run to prepare a quick breakfast burrito.
We make the turn into Malaspina Strait and are met with two to three foot swells. Nothing we cannot handle. I set my course for Bowen Island and sit back in the helm seat watching the world simply pass by. The further south we go, the more marine traffic we face. We are headed back into reality!
We arrive at Mannion Bay and are quickly disappointed with what we see. While Dreamspeaker and Wagoner’s talk of the beauty of this location, they both fail to mention that it is filled with derelict live-aboard vessels.
I take Destiny in while Hayden Bay stands off outside. It is a very eerie feeling passing between these vessels. The inhabitants peak out windows and companionways never fully exposing themselves. I would not feel comfortable going ashore and leaving Destiny in this location.
I head back out of the bay and come alongside Hayden Bay. I express my concern for the safety of our vessels and we make the decision to head to Halkett Bay on Gambier Island.
We arrive at Halkett Bay and select a location deep inside. You must be very careful where you set your hook in this bay. There are rocks that will make their appearance on low tide.
We have a wonderful evening enjoying a great sunset. Tomorrow, we will temporarily part ways. I will head off to Vancouver, Hayden Bay will continue exploring Howe Sound as well as Indian Arm.
False Creek and Vancouver
After Cinnamon Rolls and coffee, I bring Destiny’s lines back aboard leaving Hayden Bay alone. Today I will make my way up False Creek to Quayside Marina in Downtown Vancouver. With it being a Saturday, marine traffic is heavy. Ferries, Tugs, and Pleasure Boats all vie for the same space. Then you add in the Kayaker’s and things really get busy!
The approach to Vancouver from the water is incredible. This is my first visit and I am truly awed by what I see. Vancouver is a much larger city than I expect. Its skyline is incredible. Anchored in front of that skyline are a dozen great ships from all over the world.
I make my way towards the harbor entrance completely overwhelmed by the sights and sounds. After spending three weeks in the far reaches of the north, this is complete sensory overload. Horns are honking. Sirens blare. Boats speed by in all directions. Everywhere you look there are people!
As I make my way up False Creek, I hail Quayside Marina on channel 66a. A polite young man gives me directions to my slip. I make my way down the fairway and spy this same young man waving me into my slip. As I nudge Destiny in, he reaches for her bowline. A gentleman on the adjacent vessel has come out to assist and takes the stern. Once secure, the dockhand gives me all of my information on the marina. He then informs me that there is no need to come to the office, they have my credit card number on file and will simply bill me when they note my departure. While I have scheduled to be here for five nights, he tells me there are no worries if I depart early. They understand that boating plans change. They will only charge me for the nights I am there. While expensive, I would highly recommend this marina not only for their top-notch facility and location but, the incredibly friendly staff as well!
After Cinnamon Rolls and coffee, I bring Destiny’s lines back aboard leaving Hayden Bay alone. Today I will make my way up False Creek to Quayside Marina in Downtown Vancouver. With it being a Saturday, marine traffic is heavy. Ferries, Tugs, and Pleasure Boats all vie for the same space. Then you add in the Kayaker’s and things really get busy!
The approach to Vancouver from the water is incredible. This is my first visit and I am truly awed by what I see. Vancouver is a much larger city than I expect. Its skyline is incredible. Anchored in front of that skyline are a dozen great ships from all over the world.
I make my way towards the harbor entrance completely overwhelmed by the sights and sounds. After spending three weeks in the far reaches of the north, this is complete sensory overload. Horns are honking. Sirens blare. Boats speed by in all directions. Everywhere you look there are people!
As I make my way up False Creek, I hail Quayside Marina on channel 66a. A polite young man gives me directions to my slip. I make my way down the fairway and spy this same young man waving me into my slip. As I nudge Destiny in, he reaches for her bowline. A gentleman on the adjacent vessel has come out to assist and takes the stern. Once secure, the dockhand gives me all of my information on the marina. He then informs me that there is no need to come to the office, they have my credit card number on file and will simply bill me when they note my departure. While I have scheduled to be here for five nights, he tells me there are no worries if I depart early. They understand that boating plans change. They will only charge me for the nights I am there. While expensive, I would highly recommend this marina not only for their top-notch facility and location but, the incredibly friendly staff as well!
Home to Seattle
After returning to Vancouver from Chicago, it is time to make my way home to Seattle. The plan is to rejoin Jorge and Marcus at Sucia Island. I make an early departure from Vancouver and head out into the Burrard Inlet. My course will take me west until I reach the Straits of Georgia. Once I reach the Straits, I will set a due south course for Sucia.
As I enter the Straits, the seas once again begin to build. I am taking them straight on the bow which means, a turn to the south will put them on the beam. I chose to continue out into the Straits planning to go two thirds of the way across and then turn to the southeast. This should put the swells on the stern quarter.
The crossing from Vancouver to Porlier Pass is 19 miles. I have now gone 11 of those miles and the seas have built to the five to seven foot range. I decide that I will attempt the run southeast for one mile. If it is too uncomfortable, I will once again turn west and head for Porlier Pass and the smooth waters of the islands.
I make the turn and quickly decide that thirty plus miles of this is not worth it. I turn to the west and set a course for Porlier. As I close the pass, the seas become steeper and more confused. Destiny is handling it all fine; I am just tired of the lumpiness that we have experienced this trip.
I shoot through the pass on a flood tide and am quickly in settled waters. I now sit back and relax as the autopilot guides us to our destination. Once I had made the decision not to run down the straits, my destination also changed. I sent Jorge a text and let him know I was going to put into Friday Harbor.
They too have decided to not venture out onto the Straits and suggest we meet up in Hunters Bay on Lopez Sound. I agree. While I motor along in beautiful sunshine, they cruise from Bellingham towards Anacortes in pea soup fog!
As I make the turn out of Thatcher Pass into Lopez Sound, I can see the wall of fog that hangs over Rosario Straits. I call out to Hayden Bay to check on their position. They are just entering Thatcher Pass. I continue to look at the wall of fog and, out of if emerges Hayden Bay!
I drop my speed to idle to allow Hayden Bay to catch up. Hayden Bay passes by and proceeds into Hunter Bay. She drops her hook and I bring Destiny in alongside. The afternoon is spent relaxing and enjoying the beauty that surrounds us.
I awaken the following morning to yet another incredible sunrise. While I spend the day catching up on work, the crew of Hayden Bay paddles around Hunter Bay on their Kayaks.
Just as darkness falls, I set off for Anacortes to pick Maureen up. She is scheduled to arrive at 22:00. Once she is aboard, we will make our way back across Rosario Strait and in through Lopez Pass where we will once again raft to Hayden Bay.
Approaching a narrow pass such as Lopez in total darkness can be a bit nerve wracking. All we can see is the flashing red navigation light and a black wall of rocks. However, since I have been through here three times in the daylight, I simply need to follow the track on my Garmin back in and through. Once we are aligned with the entrance, we can see all of the anchor lights of the boats in Hunter Bay. Slowly I steer Destiny through. Once through, Maureen takes the helm while I prepare lines and fenders. Jorge and Marcus await our return to assist with re-securing.
The following morning we make the decision to move over to American Camp on South San Juan Island. While the anchorage is beautiful, it is apparent that the people that live in the small community on Fish Creek do not want others to anchor in the marine park. Numerous residents would come out of the marina and intentionally wake the anchored vessels. One in particular, a 38-foot Bayliner named Cascade 2 waked us quite badly on three separate occasions. When we tried to reach them on the VHF, they were just abusive.
5:00 Sunday morning and Destiny departs American Camp under a beautiful orange sky. The sun has yet to show itself for the day. We make our way out of Cattle Pass and into the Straits of Juan de Fuca. In the distance we can see a wall of fog. We prepare for the inevitable setting up our two iPads. One runs the Active Captain Charts while the other runs Ship Finder. The Garmin shows us the radar picture. Just as all is set up and running, the fog lowers its veil and we are enveloped in its gray wetness.
As we approach the shipping lanes, we contact Seattle Traffic informing them of our position. They ask that we contact them once we reach Partridge Point.
We enter Admiralty Inlet, the fog begins to lift. While we have no sunshine, we are now just dealing with high clouds. We make our way south to Shilshole and enter the channel to the Ballard Locks.
Just as on our departure, we time our arrival at the locks perfectly. They are open and awaiting us. Maureen guides Destiny into the large lock. We secure her to the wall and begin our lift into the fresh water of the ship canal. We are home.
At last, we are now secure in our slip at Stimsons. We have been out for 30 days having covered a total of 674 miles. We used a total of 204 gallons of fuel for an average burn of 1.5 GPH. We traveled as far north as the Octopus Islands.
Plans are already in the works for another long trip next July that will take us even further north!
What a great life we live!
After returning to Vancouver from Chicago, it is time to make my way home to Seattle. The plan is to rejoin Jorge and Marcus at Sucia Island. I make an early departure from Vancouver and head out into the Burrard Inlet. My course will take me west until I reach the Straits of Georgia. Once I reach the Straits, I will set a due south course for Sucia.
As I enter the Straits, the seas once again begin to build. I am taking them straight on the bow which means, a turn to the south will put them on the beam. I chose to continue out into the Straits planning to go two thirds of the way across and then turn to the southeast. This should put the swells on the stern quarter.
The crossing from Vancouver to Porlier Pass is 19 miles. I have now gone 11 of those miles and the seas have built to the five to seven foot range. I decide that I will attempt the run southeast for one mile. If it is too uncomfortable, I will once again turn west and head for Porlier Pass and the smooth waters of the islands.
I make the turn and quickly decide that thirty plus miles of this is not worth it. I turn to the west and set a course for Porlier. As I close the pass, the seas become steeper and more confused. Destiny is handling it all fine; I am just tired of the lumpiness that we have experienced this trip.
I shoot through the pass on a flood tide and am quickly in settled waters. I now sit back and relax as the autopilot guides us to our destination. Once I had made the decision not to run down the straits, my destination also changed. I sent Jorge a text and let him know I was going to put into Friday Harbor.
They too have decided to not venture out onto the Straits and suggest we meet up in Hunters Bay on Lopez Sound. I agree. While I motor along in beautiful sunshine, they cruise from Bellingham towards Anacortes in pea soup fog!
As I make the turn out of Thatcher Pass into Lopez Sound, I can see the wall of fog that hangs over Rosario Straits. I call out to Hayden Bay to check on their position. They are just entering Thatcher Pass. I continue to look at the wall of fog and, out of if emerges Hayden Bay!
I drop my speed to idle to allow Hayden Bay to catch up. Hayden Bay passes by and proceeds into Hunter Bay. She drops her hook and I bring Destiny in alongside. The afternoon is spent relaxing and enjoying the beauty that surrounds us.
I awaken the following morning to yet another incredible sunrise. While I spend the day catching up on work, the crew of Hayden Bay paddles around Hunter Bay on their Kayaks.
Just as darkness falls, I set off for Anacortes to pick Maureen up. She is scheduled to arrive at 22:00. Once she is aboard, we will make our way back across Rosario Strait and in through Lopez Pass where we will once again raft to Hayden Bay.
Approaching a narrow pass such as Lopez in total darkness can be a bit nerve wracking. All we can see is the flashing red navigation light and a black wall of rocks. However, since I have been through here three times in the daylight, I simply need to follow the track on my Garmin back in and through. Once we are aligned with the entrance, we can see all of the anchor lights of the boats in Hunter Bay. Slowly I steer Destiny through. Once through, Maureen takes the helm while I prepare lines and fenders. Jorge and Marcus await our return to assist with re-securing.
The following morning we make the decision to move over to American Camp on South San Juan Island. While the anchorage is beautiful, it is apparent that the people that live in the small community on Fish Creek do not want others to anchor in the marine park. Numerous residents would come out of the marina and intentionally wake the anchored vessels. One in particular, a 38-foot Bayliner named Cascade 2 waked us quite badly on three separate occasions. When we tried to reach them on the VHF, they were just abusive.
5:00 Sunday morning and Destiny departs American Camp under a beautiful orange sky. The sun has yet to show itself for the day. We make our way out of Cattle Pass and into the Straits of Juan de Fuca. In the distance we can see a wall of fog. We prepare for the inevitable setting up our two iPads. One runs the Active Captain Charts while the other runs Ship Finder. The Garmin shows us the radar picture. Just as all is set up and running, the fog lowers its veil and we are enveloped in its gray wetness.
As we approach the shipping lanes, we contact Seattle Traffic informing them of our position. They ask that we contact them once we reach Partridge Point.
We enter Admiralty Inlet, the fog begins to lift. While we have no sunshine, we are now just dealing with high clouds. We make our way south to Shilshole and enter the channel to the Ballard Locks.
Just as on our departure, we time our arrival at the locks perfectly. They are open and awaiting us. Maureen guides Destiny into the large lock. We secure her to the wall and begin our lift into the fresh water of the ship canal. We are home.
At last, we are now secure in our slip at Stimsons. We have been out for 30 days having covered a total of 674 miles. We used a total of 204 gallons of fuel for an average burn of 1.5 GPH. We traveled as far north as the Octopus Islands.
Plans are already in the works for another long trip next July that will take us even further north!
What a great life we live!
