Pacific Swift 2009 - Trip 2

Last evening´s highlight was undoubtedly the opportunity for a swim
stop in the tepid waters of Tribune Bay. What started of as a hesitant
trickle of swimmers turned into a veritable flood. Once the first
intrepid souls dove into the clear green waters and proclaimed them fit
for bathing, others rushed to their swimsuits. The sea was without
imperfection and the view south into the Strait of Georgia and her
mountainous shores made the dip that much more delightful.  It was a joy
to see trainees and crew alike crowded into the headrig to jump and dive
into the waters and swarm back aboard like marauding pirates. After a
good night´s sleep the dories where launched and the ambitious row into
the beachhead started. It was a fine time for intermediate trainees to
try their hand at steering a dory and all aquited themselves admirably.  
Tribune Bay has a lovely flat and sandy beach backed by trees and was a
perfect venue for a spirited game of ultimate frisbee. The anchor was
hove up and the course shaped south, after returning to the Swift around
noon. Unfortunately the wind still offers no favours, as she remained
light and variable. The positive side is that the weather has been very
pleasant and a very comfortable temperature out on the water. This
afternoon the juniors reviewed and then tested, covering areas such as
chartwork, collision regulations, sail theory and terminology.  By all
indications they have done very well on the test. Approaching our
picturesque anchorage in  Nuttal Bay, the bosun took charge with his
mate and intermediates to "heave the lead". Using an old fashioned lead
line to sound the bottom and determine bottom type. With a final cry of
"By the deep 18, and sand ho!" The anchor was dropped and we have
settled down to another delicious meal. Tonight will feature some skits
and some further talks or raps to build community.