That was a spectacular trip. I was foolishly optimistic to think I could motor straight into that breeze. It was probably blowing 20 to 25 knots, with a decent swell as soon as I got clear of the bay. I tried beating into for a while, hoping to work my way up to the marks, which are the recommended way through the reefs. But with the wind and sea as they were, clawing all the way up there just didn’t seem practical. I had already come in through the reefs a few days earlier, and felt I had a reasonably good line through them, despite the Salish Sea Guide making it quite clear that one should not do such things without local knowledge. But given the conditions, it seemed like the best course available. So through the reefs I went. Everything was fine, though it certainly had my attention. Once clear, I had a very exciting downwind run towards Klaskish Basin. I was under Genoa alone, maybe about 100%, with large following seas rolling up behind me. Jura would lift and accelerate down the faces, surfing along at 8.5 to 9 knots. It was exhilarating. Coming into Klaskish Basin was spectacular. Layered mountains, forested slopes on either side, and then this tiny narrow entrance between tall cliffs. Like entering a lake hidden inside the coast. It is really beautiful in here. I’m glad I didn’t skip it. Getting out may be another matter. I think I’ll need to wait for a day without too much wind, otherwise it may be hard work getting back out against the waves. Once clear of the entrance, I should be on a close reach—perhaps even a beam reach—down towards the end of Brooks Peninsula.

It’s quite breezy out here, already into white caps. Expecting a tossed-up sea state. I’ll power into the wind to get clear of the reefs, and then should be able to pop a little of the Genoa and head towards Klaskish on a broad reach.