Weather: Overcast and cool, low 40s. Wind: Calm. Seas: Flat.
Departed around 0900 and arrived 1200.
Essentially a boring motor on the usual route, across San Juan Channel to Upright Channel to Harney Channel through Thatcher Pass and across Rosario. The motor did give us an opportunity to clean and stow many of the post trip things required, saving time in the marina. The marina was closed for the holiday so did not take on fuel.
Kelly surprised me by not only taking Strider out of Friday Harbor (amas spread!), but also bringing her into our slip in Skyline! Apparently, she just decided to do it!
Showing posts with label San Juans. Show all posts
Showing posts with label San Juans. Show all posts
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Sunday, 29December2013: Cowichan Bay to Friday Harbor
Weather: Overcast and cold. Winds: Calm building to SE 10. Waves: 1-2ft.
Breakfast was a loaf of still warm rustic bread from True Grain. Spread the amas dockside and had an uneventful departure around 1000. Motored out Cowichan Bay and through Satellite Channel. SE winds picked after passing Piers Island. Sailed 7-8kts under full main and genoa. Initial E tack brought us to the north side of Celia Reefs buoy and the south end of Portland Island. Tacked S to vicinity of Coal Island. Tacked E past the north side of Imrie Islands to the SW corner of Moresby Island. Tack S and once clear of Moresby, tacked E making 7.5kts across the Haro directly to Turn Point Light.
The tide and currents had changed at this point and with the SE winds and knowing it would be a motor, we chose the north side of Stewart Island route, avoiding the unfavorable currents on the south route. Once in the lee, fired up the engine and Kelly called out, "What's that noise coming from the engine compartment?" Fan belt was slipping, and squealing. Secured the engine and we drifted for the 10min required to tighten it. Once repaired and fired up, motored along the north shore of Stewart and checked out Prevost Harbor. Midway along Johns Island, SE wind picked up and were once again under full main and genoa making 7.5kts. East tack took us to a point a couple miles NNW of Flattop Island. S tack to vicinity of Green Point, SE corner of Spieden Island. At this point, it was 1400 and I was tired. Fired up the engine and we motored into the wind the rest of the way to Friday Harbor securing the sails enroute.
Winds in Friday Harbor were calm and I decided to leave the amas out and backed into slip G15 - got to practice when able! Several people showed up to assist and took lines. I asked them not to do anything so I could bring Strider in. After, one man stated he had both bow and stern thrusters and could not have done better! Felt good to bring Strider in that way. Neighboring boat started talking to Kelly, "I think you were here the last time we were. Don't you have a couple of dogs?"
Not wanting to cook, had wonderful German comfort food (pork schnitzel, mashed potatoes, mushroom gravy and roasted veggies along with a Fish Tail Mudshark Porter) at the Rumor Mill. Did not stay for the live entertainment though the duo sounded nice in warm up.
Breakfast was a loaf of still warm rustic bread from True Grain. Spread the amas dockside and had an uneventful departure around 1000. Motored out Cowichan Bay and through Satellite Channel. SE winds picked after passing Piers Island. Sailed 7-8kts under full main and genoa. Initial E tack brought us to the north side of Celia Reefs buoy and the south end of Portland Island. Tacked S to vicinity of Coal Island. Tacked E past the north side of Imrie Islands to the SW corner of Moresby Island. Tack S and once clear of Moresby, tacked E making 7.5kts across the Haro directly to Turn Point Light.
The tide and currents had changed at this point and with the SE winds and knowing it would be a motor, we chose the north side of Stewart Island route, avoiding the unfavorable currents on the south route. Once in the lee, fired up the engine and Kelly called out, "What's that noise coming from the engine compartment?" Fan belt was slipping, and squealing. Secured the engine and we drifted for the 10min required to tighten it. Once repaired and fired up, motored along the north shore of Stewart and checked out Prevost Harbor. Midway along Johns Island, SE wind picked up and were once again under full main and genoa making 7.5kts. East tack took us to a point a couple miles NNW of Flattop Island. S tack to vicinity of Green Point, SE corner of Spieden Island. At this point, it was 1400 and I was tired. Fired up the engine and we motored into the wind the rest of the way to Friday Harbor securing the sails enroute.
Winds in Friday Harbor were calm and I decided to leave the amas out and backed into slip G15 - got to practice when able! Several people showed up to assist and took lines. I asked them not to do anything so I could bring Strider in. After, one man stated he had both bow and stern thrusters and could not have done better! Felt good to bring Strider in that way. Neighboring boat started talking to Kelly, "I think you were here the last time we were. Don't you have a couple of dogs?"
Not wanting to cook, had wonderful German comfort food (pork schnitzel, mashed potatoes, mushroom gravy and roasted veggies along with a Fish Tail Mudshark Porter) at the Rumor Mill. Did not stay for the live entertainment though the duo sounded nice in warm up.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Sunday, 20October2013: Friday Harbor to Victoria, BC.
Weather: Overcast and cool. Winds: Light and variable. Seas: Flat.
Hopped southbound into the outgoing tide, motoring to Cattle Pass as the light north-ish winds could not push us fast enough. Raised the main though. Turned west to cross the Haro and picked up some winds, making 6.5kts under the main and screacher. These conditions continued through most of the rest of the trip, slacking off south off Discovery Island but picking back up. Motored on in after rounding the south side of Trial Island.
Pics courtesy of S/V Sarita:
Currents switched as we crossed the Haro and became strong against us at Trial Island. Stayed in the shadow of Trial and hugged the Vancouver Island shore to mitigate the currents. Checked into Canada via CANPASS as we entered Victoria Harbor. Moored at Causeway Floats, backing all the way into the head of the dock.
One of the reasons I wanted to go through Cattle Pass was for the Steller Sea Lions. As previously posted, I'd seen them, but Kelly hadn't. I hoped it was not too early. I understand it is the males who come into our area during the winter and by their size, I'd say so! Looking ahead, I could see them on Whale Rocks and called Kelly up as we passed. Several were in the water around us. Once passed, we motored back for a closer look, shut down the engine and drifted with the current and light wind in the sails. Being within 100yds of the brutes on the island, it was easy to hear them. Several passed close by, within 100ft. Then, one astern got curious and followed us for about 10min, diving down under the boat, resurfacing astern, following along and repeating the process. Water was so clear, we could see him with no trouble. Kelly was totally enthralled! The light winds provided just enough push for steerage and with the silent motion, we could hear him breathing! Very cool experience!
Hopped southbound into the outgoing tide, motoring to Cattle Pass as the light north-ish winds could not push us fast enough. Raised the main though. Turned west to cross the Haro and picked up some winds, making 6.5kts under the main and screacher. These conditions continued through most of the rest of the trip, slacking off south off Discovery Island but picking back up. Motored on in after rounding the south side of Trial Island.
Pics courtesy of S/V Sarita:
Strider looking good at the marina exit.
Kelly happy at the helm!
Heading out!
Currents switched as we crossed the Haro and became strong against us at Trial Island. Stayed in the shadow of Trial and hugged the Vancouver Island shore to mitigate the currents. Checked into Canada via CANPASS as we entered Victoria Harbor. Moored at Causeway Floats, backing all the way into the head of the dock.
One of the reasons I wanted to go through Cattle Pass was for the Steller Sea Lions. As previously posted, I'd seen them, but Kelly hadn't. I hoped it was not too early. I understand it is the males who come into our area during the winter and by their size, I'd say so! Looking ahead, I could see them on Whale Rocks and called Kelly up as we passed. Several were in the water around us. Once passed, we motored back for a closer look, shut down the engine and drifted with the current and light wind in the sails. Being within 100yds of the brutes on the island, it was easy to hear them. Several passed close by, within 100ft. Then, one astern got curious and followed us for about 10min, diving down under the boat, resurfacing astern, following along and repeating the process. Water was so clear, we could see him with no trouble. Kelly was totally enthralled! The light winds provided just enough push for steerage and with the silent motion, we could hear him breathing! Very cool experience!
Saturday, 19October2013: Skyline to Friday Harbor
Weather: Sunny and mild: Fog. Winds: Light and variable. Seas: Flat.
Going to Victoria, BC on this trip. Delayed departure due to fog.
Usual route to Friday Harbor; Thatcher Pass to Upright Channel across San Juan Channel into FH. Mostly motor though did pick up a little wind in Upright Channel. Did not raise the main, only used the genoa.
Had a polite conversation with Washington State Ferry Elwha regarding rules of the road, which I feel Elwha failed to observe during a right to left crossing (Strider on the right), trying to get out of their presumed way in the center of the channel. Instead, Elwha hardened their turn to hug the shoreline, forcing a path between Strider and the shore. Crew aboard cited a notice to mariners regarding a security zone for passenger vessels. The crux I got from the conversation is Elwha does not feel any responsibility for maintaining their own security zone and can therefore, violate the rules of the road.
Visited Saritas while there and enjoyed cottage pie for dinner1 Much to their delight, delivered some pears and kiwi from the garden!
Going to Victoria, BC on this trip. Delayed departure due to fog.
Usual route to Friday Harbor; Thatcher Pass to Upright Channel across San Juan Channel into FH. Mostly motor though did pick up a little wind in Upright Channel. Did not raise the main, only used the genoa.
Had a polite conversation with Washington State Ferry Elwha regarding rules of the road, which I feel Elwha failed to observe during a right to left crossing (Strider on the right), trying to get out of their presumed way in the center of the channel. Instead, Elwha hardened their turn to hug the shoreline, forcing a path between Strider and the shore. Crew aboard cited a notice to mariners regarding a security zone for passenger vessels. The crux I got from the conversation is Elwha does not feel any responsibility for maintaining their own security zone and can therefore, violate the rules of the road.
Visited Saritas while there and enjoyed cottage pie for dinner1 Much to their delight, delivered some pears and kiwi from the garden!
Saturday, 21September2013: Friday Harbor to Skyline
Weather: Sunny and mild. Winds: Light and variable, 15kts at East Sound. Seas: Calm
Intended to leave on Friday, but was having too good a time and stayed one more day. Departed around 1100. Saritas came by to see us off. Mostly a motor. Sailed at 5kts in light winds under main and screacher across San Juan Channel. Motored. Picked a bit of wind on the south side of Shaw Island and managed to sail a bit more. Motored. At the west end of East Sound, winds picked up and we made 8-10kts all the way to Peavine Pass. Slowed to 5kts against the current in Peavine. Mid-pass, motored as the winds became obstructed by Obstruction Island. Mostly motored the rest of the way home, picking up a bit of wind every now and then.
Intended to leave on Friday, but was having too good a time and stayed one more day. Departed around 1100. Saritas came by to see us off. Mostly a motor. Sailed at 5kts in light winds under main and screacher across San Juan Channel. Motored. Picked a bit of wind on the south side of Shaw Island and managed to sail a bit more. Motored. At the west end of East Sound, winds picked up and we made 8-10kts all the way to Peavine Pass. Slowed to 5kts against the current in Peavine. Mid-pass, motored as the winds became obstructed by Obstruction Island. Mostly motored the rest of the way home, picking up a bit of wind every now and then.
Thursday, 19September2013: Skyline to Friday Harbor
Weather: Sunny and mild. Winds: SW 10. Seas: <1ft.
Sailed when we could and motored when we had to. Crossed Rosario under main and genoa at 6kts. Motored through Thatcher Pass to Upright Channel. Beat at 7.5kts in Upright Channel and 5kts across San Juan Channel and into Friday Harbor.
A pleasant day sailing! Came to Friday Harbor to visit our newly former dock neighbors Richard, Jude and Katya aboard Sarita. They had moved the previous day to Friday Harbor to enroll Katya in school.
Enjoyed the two days here, dinners aboard Sarita, Katya playing with the dogs, strolling around Friday Harbor, buying cheese at the new San Juan Island Cheese Shop, getting abandoned by Kelly and Jude while on the walk about....
Sailed when we could and motored when we had to. Crossed Rosario under main and genoa at 6kts. Motored through Thatcher Pass to Upright Channel. Beat at 7.5kts in Upright Channel and 5kts across San Juan Channel and into Friday Harbor.
A pleasant day sailing! Came to Friday Harbor to visit our newly former dock neighbors Richard, Jude and Katya aboard Sarita. They had moved the previous day to Friday Harbor to enroll Katya in school.
Enjoyed the two days here, dinners aboard Sarita, Katya playing with the dogs, strolling around Friday Harbor, buying cheese at the new San Juan Island Cheese Shop, getting abandoned by Kelly and Jude while on the walk about....
Friday, November 29, 2013
Wednesday, 11September2013: Butchart Cove to Skyline
Weather: Sunny and warm. Winds: Variable. Seas: Calm.
Effortless departure at 0800. Motored north out the Saanich and west out Satellite Channel. Trying to maximize the current push, headed SE along the north shore of Sidney Spit/Sidney Island allowing us to check out the anchorage.
Crossed the Haro and had to yield to a large, northbound commercial vessel in vicinity of Stewart Island. Said vessel had the right of way, but man, I don't understand why they want to come so close to the shore.
Taking advantage of the east bound current, motored along the south shore of Steward Island and through the channel north of the Cactus Islands. Angled SE across San Juan Channel into North Pass, then Pole Pass, Harney Channel and out Thatcher Pass. Arrived our marina around 1400. Filled fuel and pumped the holding tank.
Lesson Learned: RPM vs Speed vs Fuel Consumption.
2100 RPM 5kts 1/3 gal/hr
3000 RPM 6.5kts 1/2 gal/hr
Effortless departure at 0800. Motored north out the Saanich and west out Satellite Channel. Trying to maximize the current push, headed SE along the north shore of Sidney Spit/Sidney Island allowing us to check out the anchorage.
Crossed the Haro and had to yield to a large, northbound commercial vessel in vicinity of Stewart Island. Said vessel had the right of way, but man, I don't understand why they want to come so close to the shore.
Taking advantage of the east bound current, motored along the south shore of Steward Island and through the channel north of the Cactus Islands. Angled SE across San Juan Channel into North Pass, then Pole Pass, Harney Channel and out Thatcher Pass. Arrived our marina around 1400. Filled fuel and pumped the holding tank.
Lesson Learned: RPM vs Speed vs Fuel Consumption.
2100 RPM 5kts 1/3 gal/hr
3000 RPM 6.5kts 1/2 gal/hr
Monday, 9September2013: Skyline to Canoe Cove, BC
Weather: Sunny and warm. Winds: Light and variable. Seas: Calm.
Heading to a new place! Butchart Gardens, a famous garden north of Victoria, has a back door for boats. I've avoided going to the Gardens as the entry fee is expensive and the Gardens are crowded during the day with bus loads of people daily. The only way I could see going there is by spending the night somewhere nearby and thus be able to enjoy the place at our own pace vice a bus tour's pace. More on this in a separate entry....
Got a late start due to fog, around 1200. Motored the usual east-west route through Thatcher Pass, Harney Channel, Post Pass, Speiden Channel, across the Haro, then to the north side of Forest Island (what is the large dock on the north side for?) along the south shore of Coal Island then wove our way through the small islands into Canoe Cove.
Just off Frost Island, west of Thatcher Pass, we encountered Richard, Jude and Katya of S/V Sarita. Having departed in April, they were completing a trip to Alaska and had just cleared customs/immigration in Friday Harbor. We knew they were in the area and half expected to encounter them somewhere along the route. Mid-channel we stopped all engines and drifted together for a bit, welcoming them back, exchanging news and knowing how they love them, tossing them asian pears grown in our orchard.
We separated too soon, but we had a long way to go yet. I'd hoped to get all the way to Butchart Cove (locally known name for a small inlet off of Tod Inlet). Cleared entry into Canada via CANPASS off of Roche Harbor (by the way, cell coverage in San Juan Channel sucks) and named Canoe Cove as our port of entry, estimated TOA of 1900. Since Butchart Cove is a couple hours beyond Canoe Cove, we decided to stay there for the night.
Weaving through the small islands off of Canoe Cove was interesting, like exploring an unknown swamp with tight canals and shallow water. Around this island and between the next two and suddenly Canoe Cove was in front of us. Their customs dock is on the fuel dock which is way inside the marina, down the narrow fairway between C & D docks. As has been the norm, customs and immigration officials did not show and we made our way back down the fairway to our assigned slip on E dock.
Canoe Cove is a working marina, none of the flash of other marinas. Still, transient moorage was expensive. Location, location, location. Though we did not try any, they were closed upon arrival, the two restaurants have a good reputation. A quiet and restful night!
Heading to a new place! Butchart Gardens, a famous garden north of Victoria, has a back door for boats. I've avoided going to the Gardens as the entry fee is expensive and the Gardens are crowded during the day with bus loads of people daily. The only way I could see going there is by spending the night somewhere nearby and thus be able to enjoy the place at our own pace vice a bus tour's pace. More on this in a separate entry....
Got a late start due to fog, around 1200. Motored the usual east-west route through Thatcher Pass, Harney Channel, Post Pass, Speiden Channel, across the Haro, then to the north side of Forest Island (what is the large dock on the north side for?) along the south shore of Coal Island then wove our way through the small islands into Canoe Cove.
Just off Frost Island, west of Thatcher Pass, we encountered Richard, Jude and Katya of S/V Sarita. Having departed in April, they were completing a trip to Alaska and had just cleared customs/immigration in Friday Harbor. We knew they were in the area and half expected to encounter them somewhere along the route. Mid-channel we stopped all engines and drifted together for a bit, welcoming them back, exchanging news and knowing how they love them, tossing them asian pears grown in our orchard.
We separated too soon, but we had a long way to go yet. I'd hoped to get all the way to Butchart Cove (locally known name for a small inlet off of Tod Inlet). Cleared entry into Canada via CANPASS off of Roche Harbor (by the way, cell coverage in San Juan Channel sucks) and named Canoe Cove as our port of entry, estimated TOA of 1900. Since Butchart Cove is a couple hours beyond Canoe Cove, we decided to stay there for the night.
Weaving through the small islands off of Canoe Cove was interesting, like exploring an unknown swamp with tight canals and shallow water. Around this island and between the next two and suddenly Canoe Cove was in front of us. Their customs dock is on the fuel dock which is way inside the marina, down the narrow fairway between C & D docks. As has been the norm, customs and immigration officials did not show and we made our way back down the fairway to our assigned slip on E dock.
Canoe Cove is a working marina, none of the flash of other marinas. Still, transient moorage was expensive. Location, location, location. Though we did not try any, they were closed upon arrival, the two restaurants have a good reputation. A quiet and restful night!
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Thursday, 15August2013: Bedwell Harbour to Skyline
Weather: Overcast and cool. Winds: S 5-10. Seas: <1ft.
Motored out of Bedwell, raised the main and set the genoa to work S winds. Sailed at 6kts across Boundary Pass, along the north side of John Island towards Presidents Pass and Orcas Island. At Orcas, tacked south into Spring Passage between Jones and Orcas Islands.
Winds died at North Passage and we motored through Pole Pass into Harney Channel. Continued towards Thatcher Pass, picking up momentary winds at Upright Channel. At Thatcher Pass, we were met with a wall of fog. With no radar, we were not going to charge in so I killed the engine and we drifted for a moment, studying the situation.
I tried to get the attention of an eastbound trawler, intending to ask if he would slow down and allow us to follow him through. There was no response, just a gentleman aboard who stepped out and shut the door between us. So, I got the radio out and on 16 called, "Any vessel, any vessel in vicinity of Thatcher Pass, sailing vessel Strider." Got and immediate response from M/V Maria Teresa (thank you!), a resident on our dock in Skyline. Switching to 72, we discussed the situation. They were westbound from Skyline and let us know visibility in Rosario was 1/4 to 1/2 mile and should have no problem crossing. We let them know it was clear on our side of the pass. At this point, about a dozen boats started coming out of the fog, including Maria Teresa.
We fired up the engine and to avoid traffic, we crossed to the south side of the pass while in the clear and hugged the north side of Decatur Island. True to Maria Teresa's word, once through the fog wall at the west end of the pass, visibility improved to 1/2 mile. Once well out in Rosario, south winds pushed us to 6kts and the engine was killed. Nice sail across! Approaching Burrows Pass, winds slacked and died, the engine was fired up, sails secured and we motored into our slip.
Motored out of Bedwell, raised the main and set the genoa to work S winds. Sailed at 6kts across Boundary Pass, along the north side of John Island towards Presidents Pass and Orcas Island. At Orcas, tacked south into Spring Passage between Jones and Orcas Islands.
Winds died at North Passage and we motored through Pole Pass into Harney Channel. Continued towards Thatcher Pass, picking up momentary winds at Upright Channel. At Thatcher Pass, we were met with a wall of fog. With no radar, we were not going to charge in so I killed the engine and we drifted for a moment, studying the situation.
I tried to get the attention of an eastbound trawler, intending to ask if he would slow down and allow us to follow him through. There was no response, just a gentleman aboard who stepped out and shut the door between us. So, I got the radio out and on 16 called, "Any vessel, any vessel in vicinity of Thatcher Pass, sailing vessel Strider." Got and immediate response from M/V Maria Teresa (thank you!), a resident on our dock in Skyline. Switching to 72, we discussed the situation. They were westbound from Skyline and let us know visibility in Rosario was 1/4 to 1/2 mile and should have no problem crossing. We let them know it was clear on our side of the pass. At this point, about a dozen boats started coming out of the fog, including Maria Teresa.
We fired up the engine and to avoid traffic, we crossed to the south side of the pass while in the clear and hugged the north side of Decatur Island. True to Maria Teresa's word, once through the fog wall at the west end of the pass, visibility improved to 1/2 mile. Once well out in Rosario, south winds pushed us to 6kts and the engine was killed. Nice sail across! Approaching Burrows Pass, winds slacked and died, the engine was fired up, sails secured and we motored into our slip.
Friday, November 8, 2013
Tuesday, 13August2013: Hunter Bay to Bedwell Harbour, Poet's Cove
Weather: Sunny and warm. Winds: Light and variable. Seas: Flat.
After a day with the ladies in Hunter Bay, made our way to Poet's Cove. Woke, cast off from Captain's Mast before anyone was up. Motored Strider to the public dock, tied off and walked the dogs.
Got a phone call from MM, apparently there was some confusion when Strider wasn't there. RT figured we were getting a head start since we motor more slowly than C-Mast. MM wasn't satisfied with that and called. Walking back to the dock, MM was there with the dinghy and dog for their morning walk.
Since we do motor more slowly (5kts vs 6.5kts), we took off! C-Mast followed about 45min behind. Taking route and sail cues from us, they followed and we led them a merry chase. Main up, motored out of the Bay, north through Lopez Sound, counter-clockwise around Frost Island. Rounding Upright Head, picked up some wind from Upright Channel. Kept switching between the genoa and the screacher as the wind strength changed. Once past Upright Channel, back to motoring...the rest of the way.
Went the Harney Channel route north of Shaw Island. Then the north side of Bell Island and through Pole Pass, a narrow, but deep pass between Orcas and Crane Island. Reputed to have strong currents, caution is demanded. RT had never been on this route so it was good for him! Then, north side of Reef Island through North Pass and into San Juan Channel. Cleared Canadian Customs here using our CanPass!
At this point, the currents were against us. C-Mast continued north out of San Juan Channel while we broke west into Spieden Channel. Clinging to the south shore of Spieden Island, we managed a bit of a back eddy. Went between Sentinel and Spieden Islands. Rounding Spieden Bluff, headed north through John's Pass between Stewart and Johns Island. Current through Johns Pass was 3kts against us, but it only lasted 15min. Once into Boundary Pass, clung to the north shore of Stewart Island avoiding the NE bound current and picking up another back eddy.
At this point, C-Mast was directly parallel to us, but because they were further north, were actually ahead of us. At Satellite Island, turned north towards Bedwell Harbor arriving about 15min behind C-Mast. They went to the Customs Dock, we went to our slip!
More crab had been caught prior to departing Hunter Bay. This night, cooked the crab in fresh water, I needed the stock for what became known as "Clearing Customs Stew." While the crab was not a tasty as cooking in sea water, the stock was great!
After a day with the ladies in Hunter Bay, made our way to Poet's Cove. Woke, cast off from Captain's Mast before anyone was up. Motored Strider to the public dock, tied off and walked the dogs.
Got a phone call from MM, apparently there was some confusion when Strider wasn't there. RT figured we were getting a head start since we motor more slowly than C-Mast. MM wasn't satisfied with that and called. Walking back to the dock, MM was there with the dinghy and dog for their morning walk.
Since we do motor more slowly (5kts vs 6.5kts), we took off! C-Mast followed about 45min behind. Taking route and sail cues from us, they followed and we led them a merry chase. Main up, motored out of the Bay, north through Lopez Sound, counter-clockwise around Frost Island. Rounding Upright Head, picked up some wind from Upright Channel. Kept switching between the genoa and the screacher as the wind strength changed. Once past Upright Channel, back to motoring...the rest of the way.
Went the Harney Channel route north of Shaw Island. Then the north side of Bell Island and through Pole Pass, a narrow, but deep pass between Orcas and Crane Island. Reputed to have strong currents, caution is demanded. RT had never been on this route so it was good for him! Then, north side of Reef Island through North Pass and into San Juan Channel. Cleared Canadian Customs here using our CanPass!
At this point, the currents were against us. C-Mast continued north out of San Juan Channel while we broke west into Spieden Channel. Clinging to the south shore of Spieden Island, we managed a bit of a back eddy. Went between Sentinel and Spieden Islands. Rounding Spieden Bluff, headed north through John's Pass between Stewart and Johns Island. Current through Johns Pass was 3kts against us, but it only lasted 15min. Once into Boundary Pass, clung to the north shore of Stewart Island avoiding the NE bound current and picking up another back eddy.
At this point, C-Mast was directly parallel to us, but because they were further north, were actually ahead of us. At Satellite Island, turned north towards Bedwell Harbor arriving about 15min behind C-Mast. They went to the Customs Dock, we went to our slip!
More crab had been caught prior to departing Hunter Bay. This night, cooked the crab in fresh water, I needed the stock for what became known as "Clearing Customs Stew." While the crab was not a tasty as cooking in sea water, the stock was great!
Saturday, 10August2013: Hunter Bay to Skyline and Back
Weather: Sunny and warm. Winds: Light and variable. Seas: Flat.
Took Strider on a simple motor/sail to Skyline and back for hotel servicing and grocery pick up. Had a great, no engine departure from the anchorage in Hunter Bay. Winds were light and from the head of the bay. Directly aft, about 300ft, lay an anchored power boat.
After casting off Captain's Mast, Strider drifted aft, helm was set to starboard and 6ft of the screacher was deployed to port. The combo pivoted Strider to port and downwind. As we gybed, the screacher was furled and then completely unfurled, now to starboard. Speed picked up quickly and we were making a silent, 4kts as we passed within 20ft of the power boat, port to port. We waved at the gaping faces of the family staring at us from inside. Don't know if we startled them, scared them or just amazed them. No one came out to yell at us so I'll assume the later.
Wind died as we exited the bay and a boring motor ensued. At Skyline, hotel services and groceries were completed and another boring motor back to Hunter Bay.
Took Strider on a simple motor/sail to Skyline and back for hotel servicing and grocery pick up. Had a great, no engine departure from the anchorage in Hunter Bay. Winds were light and from the head of the bay. Directly aft, about 300ft, lay an anchored power boat.
After casting off Captain's Mast, Strider drifted aft, helm was set to starboard and 6ft of the screacher was deployed to port. The combo pivoted Strider to port and downwind. As we gybed, the screacher was furled and then completely unfurled, now to starboard. Speed picked up quickly and we were making a silent, 4kts as we passed within 20ft of the power boat, port to port. We waved at the gaping faces of the family staring at us from inside. Don't know if we startled them, scared them or just amazed them. No one came out to yell at us so I'll assume the later.
Wind died as we exited the bay and a boring motor ensued. At Skyline, hotel services and groceries were completed and another boring motor back to Hunter Bay.
7-12August, 2013: The Boy's Vacation - Hunter Bay,
Weather: Sunny and warm. Winds: Not important. Seas: Calm.
I've often thought of Strider, or any boat, as a cottage that moves. Like a cottage, one can play on the water. Unlike a cottage, if one gets tired of the view or the neighbors, one can move! With cottage in mind, we played and relaxed and fished and crabbed and clammed and finished a bottle or two.
Wednesday: Arrived and had a pleasant evening to include limpet pasta dish...fruiti di mare? Not really, not enough sea variety. Perhaps fruito di mare would be more appropriate.
Thursday: Woke and deployed two crab traps with turkey legs as bait. One where everyone else had placed theirs and the other in a previously successful spot. After relaxing a bit, took the dinghy to the south shore of Mud Bay and clammed. Found a sweet spot and dug a couple dozen, including a few large ones. Kept them in the bucket with corn meal.
Returning to Strider, relaxed. Towards evening, checked the crab traps and had our Dungeness limit! Crab for dinner that night, reserving the two Red Rock for later. Left the traps overnight.
Friday: Crabs once again in the traps! Cleaned the 4 big clams and had clam fritters for lunch. More crabs in the afternoon! Stocking up for later. Made spaghetti al vongole for dinner, using the remaining small clams.
Saturday: After checking the traps in the morning (a couple), made a crab frittata with hollandais sauce for breakfast using the reds. Since the ladies were to arrive on Sunday, decided to take Strider into Skyline for hotel servicing. Upon return, had crab for dinner!
Sunday: Took Captain's Mast to Skyline, hotel servicing and picking up the ladies. Deployed both crab traps in Burrows Bay on the way in. Departing, picked up the traps, one was at the limit! Crab for dinner and all, but for a bit of red, was consumed! Apparently the ladies were ravenous....
Fishing: Tried. This is why it is called fishing and not catching....
I've often thought of Strider, or any boat, as a cottage that moves. Like a cottage, one can play on the water. Unlike a cottage, if one gets tired of the view or the neighbors, one can move! With cottage in mind, we played and relaxed and fished and crabbed and clammed and finished a bottle or two.
Wednesday: Arrived and had a pleasant evening to include limpet pasta dish...fruiti di mare? Not really, not enough sea variety. Perhaps fruito di mare would be more appropriate.
Thursday: Woke and deployed two crab traps with turkey legs as bait. One where everyone else had placed theirs and the other in a previously successful spot. After relaxing a bit, took the dinghy to the south shore of Mud Bay and clammed. Found a sweet spot and dug a couple dozen, including a few large ones. Kept them in the bucket with corn meal.
Returning to Strider, relaxed. Towards evening, checked the crab traps and had our Dungeness limit! Crab for dinner that night, reserving the two Red Rock for later. Left the traps overnight.
Friday: Crabs once again in the traps! Cleaned the 4 big clams and had clam fritters for lunch. More crabs in the afternoon! Stocking up for later. Made spaghetti al vongole for dinner, using the remaining small clams.
Saturday: After checking the traps in the morning (a couple), made a crab frittata with hollandais sauce for breakfast using the reds. Since the ladies were to arrive on Sunday, decided to take Strider into Skyline for hotel servicing. Upon return, had crab for dinner!
Sunday: Took Captain's Mast to Skyline, hotel servicing and picking up the ladies. Deployed both crab traps in Burrows Bay on the way in. Departing, picked up the traps, one was at the limit! Crab for dinner and all, but for a bit of red, was consumed! Apparently the ladies were ravenous....
Fishing: Tried. This is why it is called fishing and not catching....
Wednesday, 7August, 2013: Watmough to Hunter Bay
Weather: Foggy outside in the morning, sunny and warm inside! Winds: Nil. Seas: Flat.
I had a couple reasons to go to Watmough. First was RT had never been there and it is a pleasant place to be. With the park at the head of the bay, it is an easy place to walk a dog or take a hike. Another is there is a large, sandy beach at the head, an opportunity for clamming!
We went ashore, RT to walk his dog, me with a shovel. No clams. Nice sandy beach, but only 3-6 inches deep! No clams. Did find limpets though and we collected a couple dozen and kept them in a bucket with seawater and corn meal.
Watmough had run its course though. Though we had planned to stay one more night, the fog cleared outside and we decide to dash around the corner to Hunter Bay. We wanted to be in Hunter Bay by Thursday, a legal crabbing day.
Anchored in the SW corner and once again, needed two approached to moor on Captain's Mast. Damn!
Spent a few minutes cleaning the limpets and dropping them into white wine. Then made some pasta while sauteing some shallots and garlic, dropped the limpets in at the last minute and yum!
A quiet night on the hook. Did learn about the zephyrs in Hunter Bay. Previous stays did not include these. But, during the night the winds picked up and whipped down the mountain at the head of the bay, seemingly to crash right down upon us. Got up and looked around, but we were holding steady!
I had a couple reasons to go to Watmough. First was RT had never been there and it is a pleasant place to be. With the park at the head of the bay, it is an easy place to walk a dog or take a hike. Another is there is a large, sandy beach at the head, an opportunity for clamming!
We went ashore, RT to walk his dog, me with a shovel. No clams. Nice sandy beach, but only 3-6 inches deep! No clams. Did find limpets though and we collected a couple dozen and kept them in a bucket with seawater and corn meal.
Watmough had run its course though. Though we had planned to stay one more night, the fog cleared outside and we decide to dash around the corner to Hunter Bay. We wanted to be in Hunter Bay by Thursday, a legal crabbing day.
Anchored in the SW corner and once again, needed two approached to moor on Captain's Mast. Damn!
Spent a few minutes cleaning the limpets and dropping them into white wine. Then made some pasta while sauteing some shallots and garlic, dropped the limpets in at the last minute and yum!
A quiet night on the hook. Did learn about the zephyrs in Hunter Bay. Previous stays did not include these. But, during the night the winds picked up and whipped down the mountain at the head of the bay, seemingly to crash right down upon us. Got up and looked around, but we were holding steady!
Tuesday, 6August, 2013: Solo - Skyline to Watmough Bay
Weather: Sunny and warm. Winds: N5-10 to zero. Seas: <1ft.
Most of the day was foggy in and around the Salish Sea. RT got a week and a half to come north from Gig Harbor and made the trip in total fog, running on radar, finally breaking out on approach to Watmough.
I waited in Skyline for the fog to clear. Around 1530, it cleared enough to depart. Kelly was aboard long enough to assist with the ama extension and I dropped her off at the fuel dock. With a 3kt current, I deployed the new screacher and was making 9kts out Burrows Pass! Once out into Rosario Strait, initially made 7kts towards Watmough in steadily decreasing winds. Slowly motored the last mile in while observing RT's entry and anchoring.
I've made comment about how skills deteriorate without use. Mooring to Captain's Mast is no exception. Required two approaches to accomplish. First approach was gooned when I left the engine in reverse after stopping forward momentum. Second approach was perfect!
This was a solo vacation for RT and me - no itinerary, just relax and play. Beers were deployed and RT and I enjoyed the warmth of the sun reflecting off the cliffs around Watmough.
Most of the day was foggy in and around the Salish Sea. RT got a week and a half to come north from Gig Harbor and made the trip in total fog, running on radar, finally breaking out on approach to Watmough.
I waited in Skyline for the fog to clear. Around 1530, it cleared enough to depart. Kelly was aboard long enough to assist with the ama extension and I dropped her off at the fuel dock. With a 3kt current, I deployed the new screacher and was making 9kts out Burrows Pass! Once out into Rosario Strait, initially made 7kts towards Watmough in steadily decreasing winds. Slowly motored the last mile in while observing RT's entry and anchoring.
I've made comment about how skills deteriorate without use. Mooring to Captain's Mast is no exception. Required two approaches to accomplish. First approach was gooned when I left the engine in reverse after stopping forward momentum. Second approach was perfect!
This was a solo vacation for RT and me - no itinerary, just relax and play. Beers were deployed and RT and I enjoyed the warmth of the sun reflecting off the cliffs around Watmough.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Sunday, 30June, 2013: Fox Cove to Skyline
Weather: Sunny and warm. Winds: W to SW 0-5. Seas: <1ft
Woke to calm winds and seas. Took Bug (our 1990ish Gig Harbor Boatworks dinghy) and my fly rod on a tour of the Fox Cove environs. Did not catch anything, but it was nice wetting the line!
Interesting day sailing. Started out motoring. About halfway to the eastern point of Orcas Island, a west wind started to pick up. I decided to air out the asymmetric spinnaker. Have I mentioned the spinnaker is huge? With a 26ft foot, I finally figured out I had not been able to fully expose the sail in a downwind as there is only 12.5 feet between the bowsprit and the outside edge of the ama.
So, I modified the barber hauler. This line runs from the cockpit, out to the ama and then forward, up to the bow of the ama and acts as a whisker or spinnaker pole would. The mod is simply a longer line not ending at the ama bow, but crossing over to the bowsprit. At the bowsprit, I can attach the spinnaker tack to the line and then pull it out over the water, towards the upwind ama, thus flattening and thereby enabling more of the spinnaker to see the wind.
It worked great! In 3kts apparent wind, we made 3kts. In 5, 5kts. Ultimately, we hit 8kts rounding the eastern point of Orcas. More data is required, but if we continue to hit a knot per knot of apparent wind, this is an improvement over last seasons run up to Princess Louisa Inlet where we were doing 8-9kts in 12kts apparent.
Once again, San Juan winds proved to be sporty. As we rounded the point, BAM, the wind smacked us in the face and the spinnaker collapsed. So, stowed the spinnaker, raised the main and set the genoa for a beat up Rosario only to motor then motor sail etc. Approaching the south end of Cypress Island, the winds became a steady SW 5 and we had a nice 5kt beat home. Nice to be sailing!
We continued to be plagued by the battery alarm. Ammeter showed 45amps into the LiFEPO4, descending as the batteries charged, with the engine start battery switched off. Voltmeter showed 14volts. Normally shows 14.2volts with the engine start battery connected. When the LiFEPO4 batteries were fully charged, the alternator voltage dropped to 13.8 (as it should) and the amperage dropped to 2.5 (as it should). The alternator appears to function properly.
Suspect a cell in the engine start battery might have failed. Since the alternator is a stupid alternator, I have kept an engine start battery aboard to control the alternator. Will need to experiment with this configuration.... Else, I wonder if the battery alarm has started to fail.
Woke to calm winds and seas. Took Bug (our 1990ish Gig Harbor Boatworks dinghy) and my fly rod on a tour of the Fox Cove environs. Did not catch anything, but it was nice wetting the line!
Interesting day sailing. Started out motoring. About halfway to the eastern point of Orcas Island, a west wind started to pick up. I decided to air out the asymmetric spinnaker. Have I mentioned the spinnaker is huge? With a 26ft foot, I finally figured out I had not been able to fully expose the sail in a downwind as there is only 12.5 feet between the bowsprit and the outside edge of the ama.
So, I modified the barber hauler. This line runs from the cockpit, out to the ama and then forward, up to the bow of the ama and acts as a whisker or spinnaker pole would. The mod is simply a longer line not ending at the ama bow, but crossing over to the bowsprit. At the bowsprit, I can attach the spinnaker tack to the line and then pull it out over the water, towards the upwind ama, thus flattening and thereby enabling more of the spinnaker to see the wind.
It worked great! In 3kts apparent wind, we made 3kts. In 5, 5kts. Ultimately, we hit 8kts rounding the eastern point of Orcas. More data is required, but if we continue to hit a knot per knot of apparent wind, this is an improvement over last seasons run up to Princess Louisa Inlet where we were doing 8-9kts in 12kts apparent.
Once again, San Juan winds proved to be sporty. As we rounded the point, BAM, the wind smacked us in the face and the spinnaker collapsed. So, stowed the spinnaker, raised the main and set the genoa for a beat up Rosario only to motor then motor sail etc. Approaching the south end of Cypress Island, the winds became a steady SW 5 and we had a nice 5kt beat home. Nice to be sailing!
We continued to be plagued by the battery alarm. Ammeter showed 45amps into the LiFEPO4, descending as the batteries charged, with the engine start battery switched off. Voltmeter showed 14volts. Normally shows 14.2volts with the engine start battery connected. When the LiFEPO4 batteries were fully charged, the alternator voltage dropped to 13.8 (as it should) and the amperage dropped to 2.5 (as it should). The alternator appears to function properly.
Suspect a cell in the engine start battery might have failed. Since the alternator is a stupid alternator, I have kept an engine start battery aboard to control the alternator. Will need to experiment with this configuration.... Else, I wonder if the battery alarm has started to fail.
Saturday, 29June, 2013: Watmough Bay to Fox Cove, Sucia Island
Weather: Warm and sunny! Winds: Light and variable. Seas: Flat.
After a pleasant night in Watmough, we headed north in company with Steve and Janet of Flexible Flyer. While glass like, it was unfortunately a droning motor trip.
While they had been to Echo Bay in Sucia, they had not been to Fox Cove. Being fairly small with cliffs surrounding and only 4 state park mooring buoys, Fox is an intimate anchorage compared to many on Sucia. I understand it can be rough in there with a strong SW wind, but both times we were there, the winds cooperated and the nights were pleasant.
Kelly and I took a mooring buoy and Flex Flyer tied off during the day and then moved off to anchor for the night. Apparently Steve had had a rough night with squeaking fenders. Based on a comment by Steve, I modified our attachment to the buoy, rigging the harness to hold the buoy ridgedly between the ama and vaka. This configuration was stable and kept the buoy off our hulls!
Whilst Steve and Janet paddled there inflatable kayaks around the cove, Kelly and I rowed Bug around, stopping ashore to register the mooring. Very pleasant. Fossil Bay was packed and most of the campsites were in use.
Gorgeous sunset after a shared dinner of italian sausages, mozzarella alla caprese with cookies for desert. Regarding the sunset. Last time we were in Fox Cove, we took one of the south moorings. The sunset was blocked by Little Sucia Island to the west. I sat there while another boat, in the north mooring, sat in their cockpit, drinking their wine, basking in the glow of the setting sun and announcing, "It don't get better than this!" Lesson learned: We took the north mooring and had a great sunset!
On a mechanical note, the battery alarm sounded, nearly continuously. I isolated the engine start battery and the alarm quit. Perhaps the engine start battery is going bad? Alternator showed 14 volt, normal is 14.2, but plenty of amps going into the house batteries.
Replaced the block ball bearings on the starboard side. Like all the others, the old ones were bad. Kelly assisted and between us, we completed 4 in about 1/2 the time it took me to do 2 previously.
After a pleasant night in Watmough, we headed north in company with Steve and Janet of Flexible Flyer. While glass like, it was unfortunately a droning motor trip.
While they had been to Echo Bay in Sucia, they had not been to Fox Cove. Being fairly small with cliffs surrounding and only 4 state park mooring buoys, Fox is an intimate anchorage compared to many on Sucia. I understand it can be rough in there with a strong SW wind, but both times we were there, the winds cooperated and the nights were pleasant.
Kelly and I took a mooring buoy and Flex Flyer tied off during the day and then moved off to anchor for the night. Apparently Steve had had a rough night with squeaking fenders. Based on a comment by Steve, I modified our attachment to the buoy, rigging the harness to hold the buoy ridgedly between the ama and vaka. This configuration was stable and kept the buoy off our hulls!
Whilst Steve and Janet paddled there inflatable kayaks around the cove, Kelly and I rowed Bug around, stopping ashore to register the mooring. Very pleasant. Fossil Bay was packed and most of the campsites were in use.
Gorgeous sunset after a shared dinner of italian sausages, mozzarella alla caprese with cookies for desert. Regarding the sunset. Last time we were in Fox Cove, we took one of the south moorings. The sunset was blocked by Little Sucia Island to the west. I sat there while another boat, in the north mooring, sat in their cockpit, drinking their wine, basking in the glow of the setting sun and announcing, "It don't get better than this!" Lesson learned: We took the north mooring and had a great sunset!
 |
| A Fox Cove Sunset. Canada is under the clouds. |
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| Love the reflection. |
On a mechanical note, the battery alarm sounded, nearly continuously. I isolated the engine start battery and the alarm quit. Perhaps the engine start battery is going bad? Alternator showed 14 volt, normal is 14.2, but plenty of amps going into the house batteries.
Replaced the block ball bearings on the starboard side. Like all the others, the old ones were bad. Kelly assisted and between us, we completed 4 in about 1/2 the time it took me to do 2 previously.
Friday, 28June, 2013: Skyline to Watmough Bay, SE Lopez Island
Weather: Sunny and warm. Winds: Light and variable, somewhat NW. Seas: Flat.
My mentor Steve and his wife Janet aboard Flexible Flyer started their trip to Desolation Sound today. Unfortunately for them the winds did not cooperate and they had a motor from their home port and put into Watmough for the night.
Expecting the above, Kelly and I had dropped the dogs off at the sitter's (affectionately called Aunt Nina's). Steve and Janet have two cats aboard. Last summer we hooked up and the dogs spent most of the day staring into their cabin at the cats. The cats spent the night staring into our ports. No aggression involved, just curiosity on their parts. Since we did not know where we would end up and if public access to land would be available, we left the dogs.
After an hour motor, including an attempt to air out the spinnaker (too little wind and too northwesterly), we met up and rafted off. Watmough is a nice place, surrounded by cliffs on most sides with a large sandy beach at the head. It is open to the east and passing boat wakes do make it into the anchorage. I would go back!
T'was great hooking up with Steve and Janet. I picked their brains over many a subject, including how to go through the Ballard Locks. We grilled chicken, had salad a pasta dish and fresh strawberries for desert!
My mentor Steve and his wife Janet aboard Flexible Flyer started their trip to Desolation Sound today. Unfortunately for them the winds did not cooperate and they had a motor from their home port and put into Watmough for the night.
Expecting the above, Kelly and I had dropped the dogs off at the sitter's (affectionately called Aunt Nina's). Steve and Janet have two cats aboard. Last summer we hooked up and the dogs spent most of the day staring into their cabin at the cats. The cats spent the night staring into our ports. No aggression involved, just curiosity on their parts. Since we did not know where we would end up and if public access to land would be available, we left the dogs.
After an hour motor, including an attempt to air out the spinnaker (too little wind and too northwesterly), we met up and rafted off. Watmough is a nice place, surrounded by cliffs on most sides with a large sandy beach at the head. It is open to the east and passing boat wakes do make it into the anchorage. I would go back!
T'was great hooking up with Steve and Janet. I picked their brains over many a subject, including how to go through the Ballard Locks. We grilled chicken, had salad a pasta dish and fresh strawberries for desert!
Sunday, 9June, 2013: Fox Cove to Skyline
Weather: Gray to sunny. Winds: Light and variable. Seas: <1ft.
Departed Fox Cove and continued our tour of Sucia. Having seen Fossil Bay during our walk about, we skipped past the entrance and made for Echo Bay via the channel between North and South Finger Islands. Echo Bay is huge compared to the rest of the anchorages around Sucia. Reputed to have good holding, we know we could go there. We exited via the channel on the south side of South Finger Island. There were quite a few boats anchored in this channel.
Mostly a motor home. Did pick up some SW wind in Rosario and beat home at 6kts. Great fun watching a lot of boats motor while we sailed!
Departed Fox Cove and continued our tour of Sucia. Having seen Fossil Bay during our walk about, we skipped past the entrance and made for Echo Bay via the channel between North and South Finger Islands. Echo Bay is huge compared to the rest of the anchorages around Sucia. Reputed to have good holding, we know we could go there. We exited via the channel on the south side of South Finger Island. There were quite a few boats anchored in this channel.
Mostly a motor home. Did pick up some SW wind in Rosario and beat home at 6kts. Great fun watching a lot of boats motor while we sailed!
Saturday, 8June, 2013: Roche Harbor to Fox Cove, Sucia Island
Weather: Grey to sunny. Winds: 0. Seas: Flat.
Woke again to Kelly asking, "Where to today?" Love that gal!
Wanted to explore, go someplace new. Had heard nice things about Sucia, so lets go there. If we don't find something interesting/available there, we can continue home.
It was a motor, out Roche, east out of Spieden, NE in President Channel to Sucia. Had intended to motor around the island, looking into all the bays and coves, just to see what was there. First looked into, but did not enter, Shallow bay and there were a lot of boats there. Continued into the channel between Little Sucia and Sucia to Fox Cove. Only 1 of 4 buoys occupied in this quiet little cove! We took one and did not move on.
First time on a mooring ball for the dogs and they did not know what to make of it. Their barks are probably still echoing off the cliffs there. Our mooring harness had more drag than the boat did and the boat kept bumping up against buoy, setting the dogs off again. So I rigged a drag anchor using a bucket and line. Tossed it off the back and the slight current dragged us away from the buoy.
Whilst the cove was calm, from the mooring buoys inward, the current in the channel ripped. A kayaker came by and told us this was a great place unless there was a SE wind and then it would get bad. Probably why no one was there as we found Fossil Bay crowded when we walked the dogs. Dinghy ashore was easy with a big, wide beach!
Sunset was behind Little Sucia. The boat on the north buoy however, had a full view and kept commenting how beautiful it was as they sipped their wine. North buoy noted.
Next morning, got the fly rod out and toured the cove in the dinghy. No luck, but it was fun! Got back to Strider, retrieved the dogs and walked them along the south side cliffs. Someone had hung from a shore side tree, a wind chime made from driftwood, shells, stones and line found on the beach. I wondered if Katya had been there. Rounding the corner, outside the cove, someone had made a 4ft tall driftwood stick man. Really: Had Katya been there?
Woke again to Kelly asking, "Where to today?" Love that gal!
Wanted to explore, go someplace new. Had heard nice things about Sucia, so lets go there. If we don't find something interesting/available there, we can continue home.
It was a motor, out Roche, east out of Spieden, NE in President Channel to Sucia. Had intended to motor around the island, looking into all the bays and coves, just to see what was there. First looked into, but did not enter, Shallow bay and there were a lot of boats there. Continued into the channel between Little Sucia and Sucia to Fox Cove. Only 1 of 4 buoys occupied in this quiet little cove! We took one and did not move on.
First time on a mooring ball for the dogs and they did not know what to make of it. Their barks are probably still echoing off the cliffs there. Our mooring harness had more drag than the boat did and the boat kept bumping up against buoy, setting the dogs off again. So I rigged a drag anchor using a bucket and line. Tossed it off the back and the slight current dragged us away from the buoy.
Whilst the cove was calm, from the mooring buoys inward, the current in the channel ripped. A kayaker came by and told us this was a great place unless there was a SE wind and then it would get bad. Probably why no one was there as we found Fossil Bay crowded when we walked the dogs. Dinghy ashore was easy with a big, wide beach!
Sunset was behind Little Sucia. The boat on the north buoy however, had a full view and kept commenting how beautiful it was as they sipped their wine. North buoy noted.
Next morning, got the fly rod out and toured the cove in the dinghy. No luck, but it was fun! Got back to Strider, retrieved the dogs and walked them along the south side cliffs. Someone had hung from a shore side tree, a wind chime made from driftwood, shells, stones and line found on the beach. I wondered if Katya had been there. Rounding the corner, outside the cove, someone had made a 4ft tall driftwood stick man. Really: Had Katya been there?
Friday, 7June, 2013: Fisherman Bay to Roche Harbor
Weather: Sunny and warm. Winds: S 20. Seas: 2-3ft.
Woke this morning and Kelly asked, "Where to today?" Small craft advisories and strong S winds and seas dictated a northerly transit: Roche Harbor! Motored out of Fisherman Bay at low tide, following the rules. Apparently there is a rock near the exit on the west side of the channel as we struck something, popping the centerboard. RT said he had come to a standstill one day hitting something there.
Once out, raised the genoa only and made 7.5kts on a nice sled ride. Following seas are great! Winds declined as we entered Spieden Channel and were zero as we motored into Roche.
Once again, on the dock (this place is expensive) but since it was one of the first excursions of the year and we had the dogs, on the dock was ok. Backed into the slip, misjudging the turn a tad early and narrowly missing a stern/dock kiss as the chicklet on the dock nudged Strider out.
While not a favorite place, Roche Harbor is nice. Dog walking is easy with a lot of things to see. Chandlery there is not expensive (Power Stove $20 less than at Fisherman Bay).
Woke this morning and Kelly asked, "Where to today?" Small craft advisories and strong S winds and seas dictated a northerly transit: Roche Harbor! Motored out of Fisherman Bay at low tide, following the rules. Apparently there is a rock near the exit on the west side of the channel as we struck something, popping the centerboard. RT said he had come to a standstill one day hitting something there.
Once out, raised the genoa only and made 7.5kts on a nice sled ride. Following seas are great! Winds declined as we entered Spieden Channel and were zero as we motored into Roche.
Once again, on the dock (this place is expensive) but since it was one of the first excursions of the year and we had the dogs, on the dock was ok. Backed into the slip, misjudging the turn a tad early and narrowly missing a stern/dock kiss as the chicklet on the dock nudged Strider out.
While not a favorite place, Roche Harbor is nice. Dog walking is easy with a lot of things to see. Chandlery there is not expensive (Power Stove $20 less than at Fisherman Bay).
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