Weather: Sunny and warm. Winds: Light and variable. Seas: <1ft.
Sailed when we could, motored when we had to. Did the northern route to Roche, Thatcher Pass, Lopez Sound, Harney Channel, through the Wasp Islands and across San Juan Channel to Spieden Channel and into Roche. Anchored in 25ft between the marina and Mosquito Pass, allegedly the "only secure anchorage around," as one local put it. Had problems getting the anchor set, backing down too fast. With the advice of the 'local', we slowed down and set.
Very strange current/wind interaction in this spot as the current was going one way yet the boat were all pointed in the other direction.
Day 1 of the grand adventure! After all the preparation and shakedown, we are off to the Great White North. Our dogs were dropped off at Aunt Nina's yesterday. RT is bringing Captain's Mast north solo...well, except for his dog, as Merry Margret has to work for a couple weeks more and Emma has swim practice. This grand adventure idea started last September when RT realized he could finally head north as now he could go in company.
Originally, we were to rendezvous in Roche on the 17th, but RT was delayed a day. Kelly and I were ready so we headed out for an evening alone, senza dogs, senza all and had a nice evening together. Nice dinner, a walk, ice cream and the sunset ceremony were enjoyed.
I think this was the 5th night in total Kelly had spent at anchor and she is becoming more comfortable. A functioning head has made a huge difference and having a dinghy has helped!
Speaking of dinghy, we found a 1985-1995 model fiberglass 9.5ft Gig Harbor Boatworks displacement hull, sailing dinghy. After cleaning it up and getting a couple 7' oars, we are really happy with it. It rows easily and has the sailing rig. Two drawbacks, it is tippy and low freeboard. It is not for moving two people in choppy water. It does however, move two people and two dogs quite well and being fiberglass, is less likely to puncture on the PNW rocks/barnacles!
Lesson Learned: Slowly backdown to set the anchor! With all the currents and winds, setting the anchor is hugely important in the PNW. Previous experience on the Great Lakes and inland lakes with little to no current, an anchor set had not been a priority. Instead, the anchor was just dropped with a pile of chain on top. Learning, learning....
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