Wednesday, July 29, dawned bright and sunny. The forecast was once
again unsettled with strong winds and racing storms. We decided to
leave early and try to get to a place called CPR Slips on St. Ignace Island,
about 15 miles distant.
We did the first four miles under power through the Loon Harbour
archepelago. This is a beautiful area with many islands and anchorages.
A lot of boats congregate here in the summer but there seems to be
enough area for people to spread out.
Once we left the islands we raised the main and jib. We sailed east
under very light winds in beautiful sunshine. It was fun to be drifting
along while being passed by three recreational trawlers and two 30+ foot
sailboats (also under power).
After awhile the wind started to pick up and we could see clouds building
to the northwest. At one point, as we approached the Nipigon Strait and
Lamb Island, I was sure that we were going to be hit by a squall so I
donned my foul weather gear, dropped the sails, started the motor and
began to head for shelter. The winds and waves did build up quite a bit
but we only got a spit of rain. Within 45 minutes the sun was out again.
By this time we were within the inside passage on the south side of St.
Ignace Island. We once again raised the sails and drifted downwind. As
we approached Agate Island, which marked the turn to CPR Slips,
another squall approached. We dropped all sails again. This storm also
missed us.
As we were near our destination we did our final approach under
power. The approach to CPR slips is foul with shoals. On Superior,
under the right light conditions, this is not a problem as they can be seen
due to the clarity of the water. The final or close approach is very
interesting as you round a long gravel spit while standing about 10 feet
off shore. Once around the spit is it was a surprise to see a crowded
area with about six docks. We ended up rafting beside a 30 foot trawler
and had 12 other boats in the anchorage that night.
We met up with the service manager for the Toyota dealership in Thunder
Bay who has the 36 foot motor trawler "Sandbar". We know each other
fairly well as I have an '85 4Runner. After docking, we were welcomed
aboard just as another squall hit (this time full force with heavy rain). It
was unlimited beer for me and unlimited chocolate milk for the kids. It is
surprising how a couple of beers can make you feel after a day of sailing!
CPR Slips is a beautiful place to visit, with gravel beaches, good docks, a
sauna and lots of friendly boaters. We had a good time.
Tomorrow we sail to Woodbine Harbour.
Cheers!
Ray
P-19 #953 "Water Wings"
Thunder Bay, Lake Superior