This morning a handful of us woke early for a hike out to the Turn Point Light Station.  The walk took us along a country road and passed the old one room schoolhouse.  It is fun to envision kids rowing boats over to the island to attend school back in the day.  Smooth barked Madrona trees lined the trail as we passed through thick forests with tall cedars and big leaf maple trees beginning to turn yellow.  Stuart Island has many picturesque farms and great views of the surrounding water.  We even passed some yaks happily grazing in a field.

From the light station on the Northwest tip of the island we had sweeping views of the Haro Straight and Boundary Pass.  The Olympic mountain range was visible to the south.  As we walked back, a light rain began to fall adding to the sense of quiet in the peaceful morning.

We had a short way to travel today over to Ganges Harbour on Saltspring Island.  On the way, we stopped at Bedwell Harbour to clear customs.  By early afternoon, we were all settled on the dock at Saltspring Marina.

We spent the afternoon gathering final provisions and exploring the town of Ganges.  The town has an interesting history and was mainly founded by freed slaves from California as well as Hawaiian sailors.  The town still maintains an eclectic and fun atmosphere.

Each crew explored Ganges in their own way this evening.  Some heading up to the local pub for dinner and to watch the football games.  Others went out to the Hastings House for a more refined meal.  The Hastings House is a fine dining establishment perched on a hill overlooking the bay.  By the evening, the sun was out and sitting on the flybridge with a drink in hand was just perfection! Those who stayed up late enough were treated to a beautiful moonrise and bright green bioluminescent waters.