Swift Current and Estelle, Victoria Inner Harbour
May 15-17
Strait Marine, Steveston
On Monday afternoon we arrived back in Steveston at Strait Marine, where Estelle has been waiting for us. The remaining day was spent restoring order to Estelle after we had packed everything away for the installation of our new cockpit enclosure. On Tuesday, Frank Mastars came down to review the new features. An excellent job, and perfect for north-west cruising. The afternoon was spent on small maintenance jobs and preparation for a haulout next day. Wednesday we hauled out for a quick rinse of the hull, change of prop zinc and to free a frozen seacock (not a job to be done in the water). All jobs complete, we were back in the water for our final night at Strait Marine.
May 18
Royal Vancouver Yacht Club, Scott Point Outstation
We were off the Strait Marine dock by 0830 hrs. A bit early for us, but Strait Marine is a busy spot and the quicker we were out of the way the better. We also took maximum advantage of the outgoing current in the Fraser River, and were bearing off for Active Pass in no time. In the 15 knot SE breeze we enjoyed a beautiful close reach for the short 13 mile trip across the Strait of Georgia. Unlike our previous passage, we were able to time it so that we missed the ferry traffic and enjoyed a nice 4 knot boost from the current.
Through the pass, we bore off and motored up Long Harbour on Saltspring Island to the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club's very comfortable Scott Point outstation. Here we were met by Howard and Lynn Bradbrooke on Swift Current. As members, they extended a very warm welcome. Rafted up to Swift Current, we toured the very comfortable facilities and settled in for the night.
May 19
Royal Victoria Yacht Club
Next morning, after a walk around Scott Point, we cast off with Swift Current... cruise underway!! In a light wind day, we motored down through Captain Passage, Swanson Channel winding between the Gulf Islands and dodging ferries. Out into Sidney Channel we passed Sidney Island with its beautiful (and busy) Sidney Spit anchorage. Out into Haro Strait, through Baynes Channel and we were motoring into Cadboro Bay, home of the Royal Victoria Yacht Club. With our membership in the Vancouver Rowing Club and Swift Current's Royal Van membership, we both enjoyed reciprocal privileges, including two free nights. That evening, we walked up the dock to welcome our two grandsons, Henry and Johann, and mother Sarah.
Henry & Johann with Mommy, Royal Vic YC
For their first visit, they just came aboard, enjoyed a snack and headed for the club playground.
May 20
Royal Victoria Yacht Club
A full day of light duties, walking, eating, enjoying warm sunshine. In the evening we welcomed Henry, Johann and Sarah to the club dining room. Another great evening. And we discussed the next day's planned excursion with the boys, a trip from Royal Vic around to Victoria's inner harbour. All set for an exciting day!
May 21-22
Victoria Inner Harbour
At 0830 hrs we met our eager crew on the dock. Settling in, we prepared to get underway. Clearly Henry had not planned on quite this much excitement, as, casting off, he burst into tears. But minutes later, with snacks coming out, all was again well. And as we rounded Shoal Point and the harbour came into view, he was quickly pointing out the landmarks of the city. Tied up at Wharf Street Marina, we set out to find a restaurant for lunch. Met by Daddy (Hagen) we settled in for lunch at Milestones Grill. Too much excitement for Johann, he put his head down on the table and slept.
In the afternoon we bid our guests good-by and wandered the waterfront. That evening was fish & chips from Victoria's famous Red Fish Blue Fish. The 1/2 hour line-up and wait were well worth it!
Next day was more touring. Even though we often visit Victoria to see Sarah and family, we somehow never find the time to just wander the downtown. So we spent an enjoyable day relaxing and playing tourist.