While Skipper Kevin took the dinghy to town, I enjoyed a day alone on Opus storing piles of provisions which were brought aboard the previous night while tied at the city dock. I also took advantage of a sunny day and soaked up some rays.
There’s Opus at her first anchorage of this trip: in the bay off White Rock, BC
A gorgeous rainbow seemed a good omen.
On Monday we discovered high winds were predicted for our departure day from White Rock, which was to be Wednesday, May 18th. We had little choice but to depart a day early and make way to safe anchorage on Tuesday. Destination: Montegue on Gabriola Island in Vancouver’s Gulf Islands. Although we would have fair weather and plenty of time for the crossing, it was a stressful rush to get to the city dock, do a few quick runs and back to get the boat off the dock. White Rock’s ‘city dock’ is the longest dock in Canada. Yet, it still isn’t deep enough at low tide for Opus’ 9′ draft. We shoved off with about a foot to spare before being stuck in the mud till the tide would rise hours later.
Once underway it was an enjoyable passage. The wind was perfect for sailing, but we were both beat from the prep that’s been taking it’s toll. We motored.
Montegue Harbor and Marina on Tuesday afternoon. A beautiful day. The marina and at least 2 dozen mooring balls are filling up quickly in anticipation of the big blow predicted for Wednesday.
The wind kicked in late Tuesday night and kept on throughout the day Wednesday. Kevin is on the dock; Opus is heeling while tied down. Winds on the other side of the island in the Strait of Georgia gusted up to 70 kt.
The forestay holds the foresail which is in a ‘sleeve’ when not in use. (See it on the bow of the photo above). When anchored or at dock and the wind is blowing, the forestay gives a lot of shake which sends shivers throughout the boat. This morning before I was fully awake and aware I thought we were having an earthquake.
So, the voyage has begun!
What an exciting beginning for your adventure! The rainbow is a good omen – better days ahead.
Safe, exciting, rewarding travels ahead, my friend!