Mike and Beth's Adventures

  After getting battered a bit by the overnight storm in Coupeville. We headed north to La Conner.   Given the forecast wind direction it would offer good protection, water and power.   Additionally, we could top off our fuel tank prior to heading to the more remote islands.   The inside of “F” dock, at La Conner Marina, is a good secure place to dock.   There is a kiosk machine where you pay the overnight fee of ~ $1/ft.   Just beyond the kiosk is the building in which the showers and restrooms are located.   All facilities were clean and well maintained. As you leave the grounds of the marina, you are just a short walk away from the downtown area, a good local market, and an auto parts store.   The market, importantly, had a decent wine selection and well stocked produce department. Downtown is centered on the waterfront.   You can walk almost the entire length of town on the boardwalk, which overlooks the Swinomish Cannel.   As yo...

  Beth returned from her family beach vacation near San Diego and was ready for some PNW cruising.   Our itinerary for this trip was very loose.   It basically started out as, let’s see some Orca’s and try to rendezvous with some friends from home who are travelling on an American Tug.   The day after Beth returned to the boat, we read the Orca Blog and saw they were near Coupeville. Voila!   We had our destination for the first day.   The weather report was for a weak front to move through the area prior to 3pm.   We cast off lines and headed out.   Unfortunately, the Orcas eluded us.   We arrived at Coupeville and anchored until a space became available on the public dock - $1/ft/night.   The weatherman was correct. The wind kicked up about 3pm and then rain started about 5pm.   It cleared for sunset and then about 10pm the winds kicked up to 25-35 knots and stayed there till about 1am, when they abated.   The winds had acc...