2010 Trip 1 - Pacific Swift

We awoke to a brilliant clear sky after spending a peaceful still
night under the canopy of stars, untouched by the normal light
interference of cities and homes. After dishes wrapped up the watches
climbed into the now familiar dories for a row into the inner basin past
the rocky shores of Grace Harbour.  After a good row, where various
trainees tried their hand at coxswaining the dories to the beach, we set
off to find the lake promised on the charts. We enjoyed a light hike
through the lush temperate rainforest, where ferns tugged at our ankles,
cedars watched silently and the sun dappled through leaves overhead. The
lake was still and pristine with only a lone beaver departing his dam to
disturb the scene. That soon came to end as trainees and crew dove into
the warm waters to once again enjoy the abundant fresh water of
Desolation Sound. Back aboard the Swift an excellent effort was made to
weigh the dories and anchor and set off for new adventures. The midday
sun was accompanied by calm winds so we set off to search for wind in
the Strait of Georgia and perhaps sail south towards Hornby Island. Wind
was soon found and full sail was set to take advantage of the long run
down, with the promise of more wind in the forecast. Trainees are
increasingly taking initiative to work the ship in ways large and small,
many took part in handling the topsails aloft as the wind fell light and
we are now forced to motorsail south with the hope that the breeze will
return. The sea is as glassy as the morning´s lake, however the horizon
is now rimmed with the frosty peaks of both Vancouver Island and the
mainland.  The activities of life aboard carry on with lessons, ropework
for secret friends, games and the routine of watch to pass the time. We
are making good time however towards Hornby and we will likely be
anchored this evening. That will allow us to take full advantage of the
morning low water to play a game on Tribune Bay´s flat sands.