Egmont and the Skookumchuck Rapids

We departed Pender approx 30 minutes after Thor, having decided to meet up with them at Skookumchuk Rapids. The winds were building as we left the protection of our anchorage. By the time we were out of the harbor we had consistent 13 – 15 knot winds. Turning north we entered Agamemnon Channel. Perfect conditions for sailing! We went wing on wing for approx 14 nm, tacking to a broad reach only 3 times as the channel twisted and turned. Upon arrival at Back Eddy we stopped for fuel behind a shrimp boat. The skipper was very friendly and dispatched a lot of local knowledge which we appreciated. He then allowed me on board to view his catch for the morning. I have not seen so many live prawns before. They were HUGE. I asked him how many would make a good meal and told him I had $15.00 cn .  He hand picked a more than generous quantity and instructed me on the finer points of ripping their spiny heads off. Mastering this skill I departed a very happy galley gourmet.

We met up with crew of Thor, Mark and Lori, on the way to view Skookumchuk Narrows.  Skookum is a Chinook word for "strong" or "powerful" and chuck translates to "water". These rapids are among the largest tidal rapids in the world.  We had a great hike thru the woods and saw amazing displays of whirlpools and spin cycles. We have decided to buddy boat thru the Malibu rapids tomorrow into Princess Louisa Inlet. Meet time is 6 AM for departure.  The timing is to allow us time to travel the 30 miles into the inlet and transit the rapids at slack tide.  If we miss the slack, we will have to wait about 6 hours before the next slack, so we will do all we can to get there in time.  We are really looking forward to the journey, it is supposed to be an amazing place.  There will be no cell phone or internet, so this is the last post for a few days.

Back to the gourmet galley….I cooked up the prawns in a garlic, herb and olive oil sauté. A little basil was added at the end and some cherry tomatoes. All served over whole wheat pasta. It was good. This will be recorded as one of the perfect sailing days.

Sailing wing on wing down the Agemenmon Channel.

Looking north up the channel.

Mark and Lori from the Pacific Seacraft 40, "Thor".

Janet watching the Skookumchuck rapids as they
ebb through the narrow passage.

Skookumchuck Rapids at max ebb.