Now that's cruising

Anacortes, the gateway to the San Juans, was very good to us. We caught this beautiful sunset on what we thought would be our last night...


Before we get to that story, meet our favorite Anacortians, Larry and Marla. As our luck would have it, our boat was birthed 3 slips down from theirs for a month. They're the cream of the cruising community, generously bestowing books, a land side dinner, island tips, rides, mailing address and home for our car while we're out cruising.


Back to the departure plans...Larry snapped this photo as we left our slip and headed one boat over to fuel up before heading out for a few weeks. Everything was perfect, the weather, the crew, the boat...or so we thought!


After a few clunks and diagnostics from the engine room, it seems our luck had run out. However, of all the places to run out, we did get lucky. Turns out the transmission cable broke. In other words we lost our ability to shift into forward and reverse from the cockpit. Ironically, this is the third time (on two boats) this has happened. Generally speaking it isn't a common occurrence.


This repair would have cost us over $800 and several days had it not been for my captain/yogi Nick. I wish I'd captured his twisted body upside down in what looked like the dolphin pose. I have no idea how he does it, but times like these remind me why I'm so comfortable with him at the helm.

Finally, some downwind sailing to the outer islands of Sucia - can you believe how cute this dog is?? Wow, look out for the tanker.

Sucia is our favorite so far. The island is shaped like a hand with lots of anchoring and mooring options in between the fingers. The best part is there is nothing but trails and campsites on the island!!


When Nick saw this photo he said, "wow, we sure are white". We are, but the sunscreen kicks it up a notch!

The island is alive with birds and sweet smells for everyone.

Looks like Nick is about to be swallowed up by a big clam!

After 5 nights we were thrilled to pull into Roche Harbor, the Monaco of the NW. Especially since the last night was quite uncomfortable with gusty winds and swells. We'll only stay a night this time before heading out to Stuart Island later today. Can you believe we have another sunny day on tap?


Let's go!