Pacific Swift 2009 - Trip 3

Another warm morning under the rising sun brought early thoughts of
finding ways to cool down. Sun tarps have been a regular fixture when we
are not sailing, trying to create a little shade for our lobstered
hides. A further expedition was called, some say it was to discover the
West Pole, others to explore Estero Basin at the head of the Arm. The
dories, with ever increasing efficiency, headed for the basin
(essentially a fresh water lake, with a splash of salt water added at
high water). There is a narrow section of diminutive rapids where we
were forced to disembark the dories to clear some shallow overfalls. We
were shocked to discover that the clear chilly looking outflow was
actually bathtub warm! With increased enthusiasm we forged ahead finally
hoisting the dories into the tepid lake. It was a lovely row a mile or
so deep into the lake as a sense of grandeur pressed down from a
remarkably sheer rock face that presided over one side of the lake. We
found a rocky point where the boats could land.A joyful time was passed
swimming in the soothing water and exploring the shoreline. A hearty row
brought us back to the rapids and each watch devised ingenuities to
travel their dory safely and joyously downstream. A sticky afternoon was
spent with some languid sailing as we approached our final set of rapids
and reviewed for the forthcoming junior and intermediate tests. Our
anchorage has achieved a long sought after goal...solitude. We abandoned
one pretty anchorage in favour of a new one, where no yachts, houses or
artificial intrusion are visible. We are hanging on a small estuary,
clinging to the edge of the depths of Loughborough Inlet. It´s
magnificent with views up and down the inlet of the peaks and valleys we
have come to love over the last several days. We inaugerated our freedom
with a refreshing dip and unveiling  the epic rope swing.  It is a
wonderful feeling to be "alone" with a contained community in the heart
of this wild coast.