Travelling down Tahsis Inlet at low tide was a treat. Beach black bears galore! We saw about 8 different individuals, foraging amongst the exposed intertidal. Some flipping rocks, munching on the stranded fish and crabs hidden underneath. Others gnawing on the mussels and barnacles that coat the shore. A mama teaching her young cub to forage, and later another mama with her two cubs doing the same. Countless waterways drain into the inlet, developing rich estuaries where the freshwater streams and rivers meet the salt water. Some sea otters here and there, and some bald eagles perched on trees and rocks. Many sport fishing boats were out, as these sheltered waters make for a great salmon fishing spot.

After our 20nm run, we ended up in Yuquot, also known as Friendly Cove, visiting the lighthouse, the old church, and exploring the beach. Picking some blackberries, chatting with locals and visitors, and enjoying the rain. Since the winds are set to pick up, we all snuck around the corner and spent the night rafted up together in Santa Gertrudis Cove. A few of us went swimming – the water was surprisingly warm, 62 degrees F. The rains picked up, and everyone retired to their coziest nooks. We got a lot of rain overnight! Off to Hot Spring Springs Cove for day 12.