We departed Port Townsend at 7:15 AM to cross the Straight of Juan de Fuca. We departed early because the wind was slated to build in the afternoon. By departing early, we hoped to make the crossing in relatively calm condition. This approach worked well for us. There was very little wind and we made a quick crossing of the straight. We arrived at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club by 12:30 PM. We tied up at the Customs Dock at the yacht club.
We immediately went ashore and called the Canadian Border Service from their dedicated land line on the yacht club grounds. We talked with the Canadian Border Service agent by phone. After providing our vessel information, our passports, and answering questions about whether we were carrying drugs, guns, liquor, large sums of money, or prohibited food items, we were granted access to Canada.
At the yacht club, we saw racers preparing for the 2023 Swiftsure yacht race. The race was named for the Swiftsure light ship that was stationed at Swiftsure bank at the entrance of the Straight of Juan de Fuca. The lightship served as the turning point for the original Swiftsure Lightship Cup Race. The lightship was retired in 1961. Now, sailors round a Royal Canadian Naval Vessel temporarily on station at the lightship's old location.
We anchored in Cadboro Bay. We then launched the dinghy and the Yamaha 9.9 horse power outboard motor and made our way to shore. The outboard started on the first pull. I was happy the outboard started so easily. I had the outboard serviced at an outboard shop in Costa Mesa but had not tried it since the service was completed.
We shopped at Pepper's market to pick up fruits and vegetables. They have a wonderful selection of fruits and vegetables, so we stocked up there.
From here, we will be working our way north to Haida Gwaii.
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