2011 Trip 5 - Pacific Grace

Finally some wind. We weighed anchor today near 0800hrs and headed offshore in hopes of finding the forecasted NW that was supposed to be coming our way. We did enjoy a beautiful morning with the sun rising over Vancouver Island, the Otters visiting and the odd whale´s tail waving. Our treasured wind did not arrive until 1400hrs which is when we set all the fore and aft sails we have, complete with both topsails. It felt great to turn off the engines and glide silently along in the low Pacific swell. We sailed south past Estevan Point and shaped a course towards Hot Springs Cove. Everyone was excited to stop for a hot bath so as soon as dinner dishes were done of we went. Our walk along the boardwalk this evening was absolutely stunning. Every so often you would catch a glimpse of the sun setting as you looked west through the old growth forest, itself all set aglow with the evening light. Its almost 2130hrs and everyone is still enjoying the springs. Tomorrow is a sleep in day so breakfast will be a little later after which we will go sailing and enjoy the smoked salmon which is wafting down through the hatch as I write. We have a great group on board, all keen to be a part of everything that comes their way. They are also a very supportive group, encouraging each other through the many tasks that make up our day. They are a pleasure to be out here with.