The wind blew like stink the whole time we were in Nanaimo. But, since we were tied up to a dock, it was not a problem. We’re having a killer heatwave, sending temperatures into the 90’s. I’d complain, but it was 112 at home in Redding, so I guess things could be worse.
We picked up fresh produce, washed the boat down, filled the water tanks, and enjoyed some delicious pizza at Fresh Slice Pizza. The pizza was so good we had it two days in a row. Our spot on the dock was just below where the street musicians perform, so we had free live concerts. Luckily, most of the performers were excellent.
After constantly checking for weather updates, we finally decided to take a chance on a very narrow weather window. They predict the wind will drop to 5 to 15 knots out of the Northwest, late Saturday morning, and then rebuild to 10 to 20 in the afternoon. If we didn’t take this window, we’d probably be stuck here several days waiting for another window. So, we decided to take a chance. Al decided to take the “Crossing the Monster” course for crossing Georgia Strait, which hugs the shoreline, threading through the various islands and islets, which offer some protection from the ugly seas.
The wind was blowing 16 knots, gusting to 25 knots when we left Nanaimo, but by the time we reached Ballenas Island, the wind had dropped to 10 to 15 knots, and continued dropping the whole way across Georgia Strait. We’d lucked out.
We headed up the east side of Texada Island, averaging about 6 to 7 knots, with smooth seas and light winds. It was a beautiful sunny day. Traveling conditions were great, making it tempting to keep on going clear to Squirrel Cove, on Cortes Island. However, Squirrel Cove was over 50 miles away, and we’ve decided that this year we aren’t going to do any marathon passages. So, we set our course for Ballet Bay, on the mainland, instead.
Surprisingly, Ballet Bay has become popular. We couldn’t believe it. We hadn’t been to Ballet Bay in about 20 years. Back then, there was an oyster farm in the bay, where we bought fresh oysters for practically nothing. The oyster farm is gone, and Ballet Bay has become a very popular anchorage, judging by all the little sailboats anchored everywhere. Sad.
The heatwave continues. It was 92oF today!
Summer Cruise Aboard "Jubilacion" 2017 