‘The early bird beats the weather’ was the motto of the Mother Goose flotilla as we untied our dock lines from the Port of Sidney and got the fleet under way at 530 am. Our early departure to Port Renfrew allowed us a comfortable weather window before the expected 30 knot winds called for by the Victoria Coast Guard. The cruise around the southern tip of Vancouver was calm and sunny. Just prior to pulling into San Juan Bay, the crew of Hele Mai spotted a group of Orca off their port beam! A great sign of sightings to come!

Once docked within the breakwater of the Pacific Gateway Marina, crews enjoyed the warm afternoon exploring the trails and establishments of Port Renfrew. Jean, Michael and John of Discovery chatted with Bob Fassl, local artist and owner of the Artisans Well art gallery. Johnny of Grand Adventure took an eventful dingy ride over to the mouth of Gorden River. Meanwhile, Robin of Grand Adventure, Meg, Matt, Fiona and Tim of Patos, and Marc and Marnie of Hele Mai explored the tide pools of Botanical Beach. The group combed the beach looking for interesting shells and stones or as Robin calls them, “finds”. After our stroll, the group hopped in a truck, generously lent from the Harbor Master, and we rolled into the local pub to enjoy a boisterous Victoria Day dinner.