Mother Goose awoke early and departed Bishops Bay promptly to embark on the 76 miles to McMicking Inlet. The fleet wound south through a labyrinth of waterways cut by glaciers surrounded by magnificent cliffs and old growth forests. Upon entering Whale Channel, Grand Adventure called out “Breaching Humpback!!”. (Whale, I guess we know how that channel got its name.) The flotilla came to a halt to watch the humpback breach repeatedly and wave its substantial pectoral fin in the air. After a while, the humpback dove, and an awestruck fleet continued on their way.

The wind and waves picked up as Mother Goose rounded Campania Island headed for the protection of McMicking Inlet. The landscape changed dramatically from the tall, still forests of the protected channels; here, on the edge of the Pacific, the gnarled trees and smooth rocks speak of a millennia of powerful wind and waves. It is a beautiful, rugged coastline. Within minutes of entering McMicking Inlet the wind and swell died down, and the fleet meandered along the inlet looking for a comfortable spot to anchor for the evening. The inbound rainstorm redoubled our appreciation of having a fit boat and sturdy anchor. All crews passed their evening enjoying the beautiful scenery and protected anchorage while the rainstorm passed through.