Pacific Swift Trip 3 2008

Trip 3 aboard the Pacific Swift is off to a great start!We´ve just
anchored at the sandy paradise of Savary Island after a 26 hour run. 21
of which were spent under sail. We welcomed aboard a great group
trainees with an excellent blend of returnees and new sailors. The group
dynamic on board is already excellent, with everyone working and playing
well together. We set sail shortly after leaving Victoria Harbour and in
company with the Grace sailed towards the Strait of Georgia, it was an
excellent sail and every sail was set at least once and we reached a top
speed of 9.2 knots heading down Boundary Pass. Light airs soon followed
around 2000 and we motored through Active Pass as mugup games, singing
and safety talks happened below decks. Once clear of Active Pass, we
picked up the breeze once more and set our courses and square topsail to
sail through the night. The forecast called for rain but all we saw  was
a few sparse showers, nothing to dampen the excitement of sailing
through the night under the occasional glimpse of stars and fireworks
off Vancouver. Dawn arrived with a freshening breeze and all hands were
roused to set the main and maintopsail before breakfast. The additional
canvas and picking wind sent us scooting up Malaspina Strait at 7-8
knots. By mid-afternoon the breeze was waning and we drifted till we
were just shy of Savary. We had a quick 45 minute motor before dropping
anchor at the doorway to Desolation Sound. All the sail handling has
been excellent with many trainees having the opportunity to lay aloft
and work the topsails. As the Intermediates finish off a splicing lesson
with the bosun the rest are preparing to get a taste of the warm waters
of Desolation, with a swim stop before dinner. The evening will be
filled with games, singing, secret friends and an anchor watch talk.