To take advantage of the tides, we got up early and set off at 6:30 am. Our first plan was to travel 24 nm (1nautical mile=1.8 km) to Eliza Cove as the next possible anchorages were too far. Also, planning this section of the trip involved going around Cape Caution, which can be quite dicey when the winds pick up and the water become choppy with 2-4 metres swells. We were making such good time with the ebbing tide and forecast of winds up to 20 knots, that we changed our plans to head across to the top end of Vancouver Island. We were able to sail for a bit out in the open water that stretches to Asia. Motor sailing made us go faster. The swells were around 2 metres. Close attention on the wheel and maintaining course lookout was important. What made our final approaches towards Bull Harbour challenging was dodging many gillnetters as they were setting their nets during12 hour opening.
Nothing but ocean for as far as your eyes
We had speeds up to 6 knots and we traveled 51 nm in 11 hours. This was a very long day of travelling but a beautiful one with the blue skies. We wore our survival suits and gloves as the ocean breeze was quite chilly.
As we approached Bull Harbour, our poor pets had such a tough day, that they took over our cockpit cushions, so there was no place for us to sit.
Mae is teaching Sugar to “stay.” After a few minutes of placing Sugar in the same spot, she stayed for a few seconds for a photo with Rose at Bull Harbour.
With the salmon and halibut heads, Mae made a tasty fish stock used for the most delicious seafood chowder with salmon and halibut chunks.
From one fillet of the 13 lb coho that Mae caught on August 14, we had BQ half of it. Then one quarter went into the stew and the final quarter was enjoyed by a couple of American sailors. Then Mae had to rescue Marty from eating the rest of the stew by giving the stew to another set of American sailors. Both boats were thrilled!
We had a nice walk to check out the old Coast Guard base at Bull Harbour as well as their rocky beach.
