Dawn Departure from Egmont (click to enlarge)
I’m not really a morning person, so it was tempting to turn over and go back to sleep when the alarm sounded at 0530.
But I knew that if we missed the narrow window at Malibu Rapids we’d be in trouble, for there are no decent anchorages anywhere near that part of the long, deep fjord that leads to Princess Louisa Inlet, our destination that day.
Malibu is the narrow, constricted passage into Princess Louisa, and it’s only safe to transit at slack tide – which occurs just briefly, twice a day (and not always at a convenient time). We’d calculated that high-water slack that day would be at 1330, and that we might need six hours or more to get there. That meant we needed to be away from the Egmont dock by 0715 at latest, and we still had some chores before we could leave. So reluctantly, I dragged myself up to greet the day.
Fortunately, the beauty of that dawn made the effort well worthwhile. And in case you’re wondering: yes, we made it to Malibu on time.
On soon: my new photography show, “Coastal Journeys, 2000-2016”.
Through photographs and words, I’m sharing my passion for the BC coast in this solo show, which opens on Gabriola Island on August 16 (with reception Aug. 18). The images range from southern Vancouver Island all the way up to the North Coast, and most of the older ones have never been printed before. I’m excited about the show and hope you can make it! Details here.
I envy you cruising in one our favourite areas. I don’t miss the classic wood boat but seeing your beautiful photograph puts a yearning in my heart. Thanks for the photo Laurie!
You’re most welcome, Kenneth, and thanks for taking the time to write. Actually, some of your past photos of Sechelt Inlet were part of our inspiration to visit that part of the world this summer. We didn’t make it into Sechelt Inlet this time (aside from walking to Skookumchuck at an extreme flood tide – wow!)….but hope to possibly get there next year.
You’re welcome Laurie. Yes, the Skookumchuck rapids are an impressive sight to see. I think you would enjoy Sechelt Inlet and in particular Narrows Inlet and Tzoonie Narrows Marine Park.
Looking forward to it in the future. Thanks!
Laurie, this is just stunning and so compelling. So calm, serene and reflective. I could look at it for a long time! Your story brought me back to our own voyages this winter and the need to time travels to get through passages at the right tide. They do sometimes require getting up early. And like you, I struggle to get up early but then am so glad I did. Some of my favourite shots have been taken at that time.