Photo: Old Presque Isle Light

The weather gods favored us with outstanding wind/waves. We motor sailed to Thunder Bay Light then headsails were unrolled as we went northwest to Presque Isle. We were able to sail to within 6 miles of our destination before the winds got really fluky - alternating between 4 and 17 kts. 'Island Sol' got even more 'weird' winds as they changed direction 90 degrees multiple times and built to 25 kts. In the end we all got in safe and with plenty of time to relax.

Presque Isle is a favorite destination of ours with clear water (15+ ft visibility) and scenic splendor. In past years we have been 'waylaid' here for several days as we've waited out the weather. We did the same this trip taking an extra day just to chill out after three long days of travel. This will work in our favor as the weather is expected to remain Northwest until Wednesday. The marina is awesome with a great crew, clean facilities, and nature trails all around.

We spent Tuesday relaxing, taking in the scenery (Vixen went wading in the lake), and doing minor maintenance/housekeeping. So far no major problems with the boat, although the anchor washdown pump isn't building pressure - no blockage in the lines so it has the be the pump diaphragm - frustrating since I installed it this spring for the express purpose of using it in the North Channel - oh well back to buckets for washing down the anchor! On the last part of the trip, the radar stopped working..hmm...no data from the radardome...the old standby worked - shutting it down and turning it back on. Shame it doesn't have a 'CTL ALT DEL' button! Typical boat issues.

The weather has been spectacular with temps in the mid 70's and very dry - certainly beats 90's and high humidity back home. Tomorrow it's off to Cheboygan, but in the meantime, it's drinks++ on 'Island Sol'