Though not a long trip, well under an hour, it was eventful right to the end. We left the dock at 10:15 AM with the wind at ten knots and building. Last night some fellow boaters threw us an impromptu party so this morning we were both dragging a bit. We took few learning passes at the pump out dock before we got it right and pumped out. Then out of the marina into Fidalgo bay. We ran on the engine to see how it would do on a long run and because of the LARGE tanker waiting to dock at the gas refinery. 40 minutes later we rounded Saddlebag Island on the North side and were pleased to see no one else there.
We didn't go very far into the shallow bay due to a -2 foot tide coming in several hours. The first time dropping the anchor went very well, with 15 under us and 60 feet of chain I backed down to set the anchor, then let out 30 more feet. All this time the wind continued to build with gusts to 18. By 1pm we were seeing 24-28.
I had expected the wind to round a bit west which would of given us better protection, but of course it didn't. A 45ish foot yacht came in before the blow started and stayed for awhile. But after dragging several times they called it quits. Our new 55lb Vulcan anchor never budged, what a relief!
What was Sarah doing the whole time the captain was watching to see if we would be swept away by wind and waves? Well, first she made amazing cheese biscuits and fresh coffee to settle the crew, and during the worst of the blow made beef stew from scratch for dinner.
I know, boat life is tough....
The wind and rain should ease off late tonight. Tomorrow will be much calmer with winds light from the west and mostly sunshine. I cant wait to complain about being too hot.
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