May 30, 2013 Daniel's Arrival and Passage Around Cape Caution - 52 Nautical Mles

We are anxious to start our passage North. With Daniel's arrival we will untie our lines and set out for our adventure to Alaska.



Everyone we encounter is exceptionally kind. Steve the owner of the

Port McNeill Fuel Dock and Marina found out that Daniel was arriving at the Port Hardy Airport and loaned us his van (at no charge may I add).  It saved Daniel a $50 cab ride to Port McNeill.

We arrived in Port Hardy early and walked around town.

Daniel arrived aboard a Pacific Coastal prop plane.

After returning to Port McNeill our first stop was at the nearby  Coffee House for Daniel to complete some last minute business.

Louie was in a very good mood forgetting how to use  his chopsticks at the local Sushi  Place  where we had  dinner.

He was so happy to see Daniel he poured his beer into his Saki  cup.

The feast arrived and I think we ordered everything on the menu!

So much so we made the "Wall of Sushi Fame" We were immortalized  with a  photograph!

When we returned to the Marina a Mega Yacht had pulled in.

We thought the name was an invitation.  But we were wrong ! It's  dinghy's name is "Chaser".

In the morning we made preparations for our passage across  Queen Charlotte Strait.  Lou pumped out the rain water from the inflatable and we were on our way by 8 AM.

The weather was great and Daniel planned to make around Cape Caution.

The wind was calm and the ocean was flat.

I served a mid morning snack.

Louie enjoyed the sweet oranges

The clouds formed dramatic shapes as we entered the strait which is open to the ocean.

We must be vigilant at all times and watch for wood in the water.  Logs break loose from log booms being towed by tug boats.

CAPE CAUTION IS IN VIEW! The weather is so favorable that we will round the cape and find an anchorage in Smith Sound. 

As we approach Millbrooke Anchorage I see a mountain with a "Crown"like cloud adorning it's summit.

With his expertise we make into the protected "Hidey Hole"and will be safely anchored for the night!

Daniel navigates the treacherous entrance and at one point the depth sounder registers 2 ft. !

I begin to prepare dinner.  Fresh Spot Prawn Stir Fry.

Ginger and Soy Vey Stir Fry Sauce

Quinoa with Shallots and Almonds

Lots of Garlic and Celery

I think they liked it!