2011 Trip 3 - Pacific Swift

We awoke this morning to a very different climate. Droplets of the early morning rain clung then fell from the rigging above. Heavy cloud surrounded us and the hills were draped with tendrils of fog, clinging to the tops of ragged cedars. Eagles cried and dove in the cool air hoping to draw their prey from the water below. Port watch weighed anchor at 0700 prior to morning clean-up and we headed out towards Johnstone Strait. Leaving the inlets and channels that have been our remote home for the last several days we entered the wider strait bordered by tall mountains on the Vancouver Island side. At this time we encountered a dozen pacific white sided dolphins traveling in unison, their breath glistening above them in the rays of the emerging sun. The dolphins swam with us for about 15 minutes, craftily charging the Swift before disappearing below the keel to emerge where least expected. It was an exciting experience as dolphins are a rare sight in these waters. The breeze filled in before noon and we set full sail under a clear sky, though the air remained crisp. Pants, toques and jackets emerged ruffled from their duffel homes. The sail was great as almost all maneuvers possible were executed as we beat up the strait before bearing away into Havannah Channel, gybing our way through rocks and obstacles. The air warmed as we moved further inland and sailed into Boughey Bay. We anchored under sail, an impressive feat by everybody as all sails were set and handled dexterously to bring the ship calmly to rest in the centre of the bay. It is very pretty with not a glimpse of humanity present. No boats, logging, crab traps or houses. There are two river valleys illuminated by deciduous trees framing the head of the bay and the air is fragrant and warm. After anchoring near 1600 the juniors sat their exams while intermediates helped to tension the rig. Dinner was enjoyed on deck and plans are afoot for a refreshing swim after dishes. Everyone is very well, many people are emerging from their shells and thoroughly enjoying life aboard with new friends.
N.B. correction to August 2 log- the poem was written by Brooks, not Dax,as previously noted