Port Browning, N. Pender Island to Butchart Cove

We departed Port Browning after a short hike into the village to fuel up on lattes and fresh fruit. This was a nice stop. The stopover had great showers, good laundry facilities and nice people and a wonderful bakery in the village. The wifi signal was strong for the dock….unfortunately we were too tired to watch a movie on streaming netflix.

The plan was to head south round the Penders and end up in Saanich Inlet. We had read that Butchart Gardens offered free moorage with visitation to the property. Butchart has always been a favorite of ours, and the spring plantings are something we have an interest in.  The concern was there are only 4 free mooring balls….and we are on the leading edge of a big celebratory weekend for Canadians (Victoria Day).

The winds and current were with us today. We set sail around Moresby Island with 10+ kts. Beam reach gave us 5+ kts SOG and perfect balance. At one point Paul left the helm and was fussing around on deck….when he returned Talos IV was still on course. I had been watching for deadheads and traffic assuming she was on “auto”. What a treat!!!  We are so pleased with her balance and ease.

Upon approach to the mooring site we passed a beautiful old sailing ship. Lots of canvas and wind…she was beautiful.

The real treat was pulling into the small (SMALL) little inlet at Butchart Gardens. We had planned for a full house and already decided on an alternate anchoring site just in case. To our surprise the balls were wide open! We grabbed a ball, lit the bar-b-que and opened the wine. I think this has been the best day so far. 

Tomorrow we (Paul) will row 20 yards over to the dinghy dock at Butchart Gardens. We expect to hang out for a few hours taking in the beauty of the gardens and then head out of Saanich northbound to Cowichan Bay and Genoa Bay, where we hope to drop anchor for the night.

Paul on his way to check out sailors entrance to Butchart Gardens