Day 41 - 8/5/24
Today was quite simple. Cover nautical miles. Everyone in new roles. At 7:45 1st mate Cory and crew lifted anchor under command of Captain Deb. I've never actually commanded the ship for maneuvers such as setting sails or anchors, not to mention docking (that particular feat will be awhile).
I set our course and lifted sails when we were out of the protected bay. There wasn't much wind so after a few hours we just brought them down and continued with motoring. We crossed the north channel bay and saw bigger water than we have in weeks, but nothing too bad. Galley chef Richard made breakfast. I have really really taken to bloody mix. I honestly love it without the vodka and it has replaced my morning coffee. Never saw that coming, and I do look forward to my cup of Joe when we return to land.
I think the most notable part of the day was going between Manitoulin Island and Cockburn island where inspired went up two knots. Besides the narrow entrance at Little Current this is the next place water can go between the channel and Lake Huron. The island is the largest fresh water island in the world, being nearly 65 long.
Richard couldn't stand not being at the wheel and he relived me for a break around 32nm out of the 44nm. We entered Lake Huron not long after and I had no issue dropping anchor at our destination. We found an actual beach, and a long one at that! The bay being over a mile wide feels huge compared to what we have grown accustomed to, but offered the best protection for the high northerly winds we were expecting. Later another sailboat came in and parked over a mile away.
We sent the kids to shore on their own to play with Kona and they happily agreed. I'm pretty sure Cory and Bert hadn't been on land in nearly three days. Richard and I enjoyed a well earned happy hour and feel asleep for a late nap (oops!). We awoke just in time for my last Taps/Last Post and dinner already made. We all toasted to our time in Canada over homemade chicken piccata. We played music and socialized until after midnight.
Tomorrow we cross back to the USA and have another 32nm slog. The weather has been tame and cool and spirits are high. I'm glad the kids have grown up on the boat, they don't mind the long days at sea.
