Pacific Swift Trip 4 2008

We awoke at 0530 to take advantage of a break in the contrary
weather on the west side of Vancouver Island. The forecast had been for
strong SE and we needed a window to weather Cape Scott. Port watch got
the anchor smartly aweigh as we slipped out of a whisper quiet Southgate
Island Group into Queen Charlotte Strait. Before the anchor was securely
lashed rapid fins were sighted on the port beam. Within seconds we were
surrounded by 20 or so white sided dolphins! They are very beautiful and
playful and a rare sight indeed in these waters. They altered their
course and swam with us for half an hour twisting and turning beneath
our bow and surfacing right beside the ship. As the main group headed
away one dolphin remained and surfaced 3 times under the bow and slapped
his tail consecuatively each time, after which he and the rest
disappeared. One can only imagine it was to say goodbye and bid us safe
passage. As everyone knows dolphins are a good omen and with this
auspicious blessing and joyous start our day and passage began. The seas
and wind remained relatively calm and we were able to round Cape Scott
by lunchtime. .A strikingly beautiful coast, contrasting sandy crescent
beaches with jagged rock cliffs and tenacious trees.Serveral humpbacks
were spotted as well throughout the day.  The passage was nicely
uneventful with noone feeling unduly seasick as we entered the west
coast swell., just a couple of light appetites easily made up for at
mugup!  We´ve rounded into the scenic and calm waters of Quatsino Sound
where we will rest the night surrounded by sea otters and eagles.
Trainees are relaxed and doing well happily studying and playing various
games as they continue build relationships and get to know one another.