On our trip to Oregon we had talked about taking the boat off the dock more often during the winter. True, you have to keep a close eye on the weather, but we knew there would be lots off opportunities to go out. In fact, it looked like a nice weekend was coming up so we made plans to take the boat to Ganges on Sunday, just a few days away. My quartermaster assured me we had enough food to survive till then.
Ganges is a town located on Salt Spring Island, the largest and most visited island of the British Columbia Gulf Island group. With a population of about 6000, they support a large, well stocked grocery store. Come Sunday, that would be our destination. We also planned to have lunch at one of the many restaurants within walking distance of the docks. Our simple shopping trip was shaping up to be a great day out.
By Saturday afternoon the weather was cool and calm. After a quick consultation we decided it would be a perfect time to go off somewhere and anchor. With well practiced ease and a giant smile on her face, Sarah untied the dock lines.The engine was put-putting as we maneuvered our way out to spend a lovely night in the bay.
The next morning the world was dripping cold with heavy fog threatening to obscure all but the nearest islands. We were in no rush and Ganges was just an hour and a half away, so we relaxed and waited, enjoying a lazy morning coffee and delicious breakfast. About noon the fog began to lift so we pulled anchor and headed off to Ganges for a day of fun.
Later that afternoon, with happy tummies and a boat full of food we left the government dock and headed back to Otter Bay. Due to the time change we were a bit surprised how low the sun was. On the way down Captain Passage the clouds cleared a bit, treating us to a beautiful evening cruise home.