We left Grace Harbour early in the AM and cruised north through the Lewis Channel. We were on our way through the Yuculta and Dent Rapids and we wanted plenty of time to make it for slack tide. There are three rapids converging into a circular bowl and currents can be up to 10 knts plus. We arrived at Stuart Island where the Yuculta Rapids start and as we were early, we kicked our boat into neutral, waiting for slack to begin.
As we were having lunch, approx 20 other boats arrived early as well. When we started to proceed through the rapids on slack, it became a big convey of boats, one following the next. Once we were on the other side , we cruised north to the top of Sonora Island. We were in luck to see 2 Orca's ( mother and calf ) swimming by. We stayed about a 1/4 mile away, so we did not get good pictures. We watched them for about 1/2 hour and then proceeded on up the Cordero Channel. Our destination was Shoal Bay where we have stayed several times.
Shoal Bay 50 27.751 N, 125 21.995 W
Shoal Bay is found on the top end of East Thurlow Island. When you anchor in the bay, you have a panoramic view through Phillips Arm and the mountains behind. It is one of the most beautiful landscapes anywhere on the planet.
There was no room on the government dock, so we anchored in the bay. The wind came up and was howling all night. It was moving our boat around, even with 160 feet of anchor chain out. Our anchor popped free a couple of times and so we had to reset it. Not much sleep that night.
Cordero Lodge 50 26.717 N, 125 26.906 W
The next morning we pulled anchor and moved over to Cordero Lodge. Its a quaint resort with nice docks. The couple that own the resort ( Reinhardt and Doris Kuppers ) have been here for 31 years. There is no dock power and limited water. The restaurant is only open for supper, but the food is German cuisine and incredible. The cell coverage is sketchy, however my wireless was working, so I could call out on Skype.
We tied up at the dock and looked to do minor maintenance for the day. Today is sunny and light winds. This is a must stop for anyone coming through this area. Oh yeah - The view is fantastic.
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