2010 Trip 3 - Pacific Swift

Today we had a set of rapids to transit so we slipped away from the
Grace a little early this morning. Desolation had a more forlorn look
this morning; gray skies and cloaks of cloud wrapped around the peaks
and hills, stubbornly clinging against the efforts of the rising sun.
Our journey through the rapids was uneventful apart from the natural
beauty of the narrow channels,  lowly draped trees and eagles perched
for careless salmon decorated the nearby shores. This morning juniors
and intermediates both worked through lessons on navigation safety as we
traveled north. The air is already noticeably cooler and the vegetation
is slowly changing as well, with the last of the southern arbutus
slipping behind us. Our day´s anchorage is the head of Frederick Arm. It
boasts stunning views of glacial peaks and deep valleys. The watches
piled into their dories for a grand expotition to explore the fresh
water basin at the head of the inlet. The first stage was a semi portage
up the warm river which connects the arm to the lake. It was exciting to
plunge upstream hopping in and out of the dories as the depth dictated.
Once clear of the river the 4 mile long lake lay before us. Sheer 1600m
cliffs drop straight into the lake and glaciers are visible down it´s
length.  There was a brisk following breeze as we set off to explore the
lake and fore watch´s use of their sailing rig prompted the other two
watches to fashion jury rigs of oars, towels, shirts and sarongs,
speeding everyone down the lake in a motley armada of patchwork brigs.
Every watch found adventures and had an excellent time bonding. The
journey back was challenging and fun with a stiff row up to windward
followed by drifting down the river till the Swift appeared around the
final bend. This evening we will spend some time developing community
through various activities and talks. Everyone is having a great time
and becoming comfortable in life aboard.