First Time to Anchor -- 7/13/2014

We leave Saltspring Island at 11A in rippled water, turning south to exit the harbour.  We slow for SV Warwhoop to cross our bow, then turn to port to round the south end of the island, traversing between Prevost Island and into Trimcomali Channel.  I enjoy watching her sail...and heel.

Our destination today is Clam Bay on the southeast side of Thetis Island and we cruise in flat calm waters at 6 knots with only gentle wakes from the many motor vessels, sailing vessels, and kayaks.    Now and then we see navigation hazards, like logs, tree limbs, sticks and occasionally Styrofoam, but today we are surprised at the raft floating nearby.

At the north end of Saltspring Island is Southey Point -- yes, at the north -- 

Our path takes us between Mowgli Island and Norway Island for the entrance to Clam Bay, and skipper steers clear of Centre Reef and Rocket Shoal.  There is a First Nation Community on Kuper Island, whose northeast shore, together with the southeast of Thetis, form Clam Bay.  With just a few boats here, we have our choice of where to put the hook down.  Herb chooses a spot to the north to be protected from the predicted northerly winds.

Did I say we have never anchored in this R-31?  

Never had the opportunity until now.  Herb performs the necessary steps to set us, and I wait for what he directs me to do.  And I wait.  And I wait.  Finally, I say "What is wrong? What is going on?"   Sitting at the helm, he smiles and says, "We are hooked."  

Nice mud and sand.  I hope the next one is this easy!

This is our front yard -- two boats rafted, looking out at Trincomali Channel.

This is our backyard -- the markers show the channel of The Cut across a drying shoal that leads to Telegraph Harbour on the west side of Thetis and Kuper.   Although there is water at the red and green markers, the bar (below the mountain) is dry at the time of this photo.  It is recommended for only small boats to transit and only at near high water.  Willie's Tug is happy where she is for the night.

As the tide comes in, there is a constant stream of small boats and dinghys speeding past us, going through The Cut.  Red and green markers not shown would be on the left and the red-right-returning mark the channel farther in.

First time using the dinghy this year, and Dr. Jake remembers that it is HIS boat and readily jumps in to go ashore.  

With a pleasant temperature and gentle breeze, dinner is in the cockpit.

At the end of the day we are treated to a glorious sunset with the pink, yellow, and orange colours dancing on the blue water.

There is peace in the cove tonight, and I had forgotten how restful anchoring out is.

Willie of Willie's Tug,

   and of Walldog, Willie and Jake

   Sunday, July 13, 2014