Northeast 10-20 kts. Partly cloudy. Solo.

Arrived at the  boat to see Pacific Grace at anchor in Cadboro Bay.  She got under way while I was readying Trouper II for my first sail since November 21. The marine forecast called for Northeasterlies 10-20 Knots, diminishing by early afternoon so I rigged for full sail.

This proved too much to comfortably single hand. Also, I hadn't counted on the sea conditions given the wind and the strong Ebb tide. The ebb through Banes Channel and around the South end of Discovery Island, meets on the flats near Trial Island. All of a sudden I was reaching through 15 foot breaking waves. It was a hell of a ride. A little too intense for this arm-chair Captain.

To add to the excitement, at one point I tacked in front of Pacific Grace. Although I quickly resorted to my original heading, I'm sure there was some excited discussion on the Grace's bridge. When finally clear of her, I dropped the jenny and while I was still maintaining a respectable 3-4 knots, I flashed up the mighty Yanmar to get me through the tidal slop and closer to Great Chain Island.

The wind had not diminished all that much, contrary to the forecast but I enjoyed sailing by main alone. I buzzed Willows Beach before dropping sails and retrieving the crab trap. I brought home 2 nice sized dungeness crabs to share with Unc. who came for dinner.

Takeaway lesson of the day; "Avoid the flats near Trial Island when the wind and tide team up to pummel the unsuspecting mariner." Also, better to err on the side of too little sail than to be overpowered when single handing.

Pacific Grace off port stern.

Pacific Grace off port beam.

Beating East toward Chatham Island with Mt. Baker in the distance. Note jenny on the deck.

This bountiful harvest yields two keepers.