Ketch us if you Kan
1743UT | 55 20.73’N 131 39.64’W
In-Port
Falken is soon to carry on our preferred route of South, back to (hopefully) warmer climates. Whilst most of the staff hail from typically cooler climates, I think we’re all a bit put out having to wear more than shorts and t-shirt and are liberal with our heater use. That said, there’s no denying Alaska is beautiful- I’m particularly enjoy our resident eagle that hangs out on the pontoon next to us.
We’re all excited to set off and see more of this wild landscape as we head down to Victoria. As things stand, it’s looking like a great forecast of lighter downwind initially to get us in the swing of things, before picking up for some downwind hooning as we sail down the west coast of Vancouver Island. A thermal trough over Vancouver combined with an offshore high pressure creating funneling NW’ly winds means it is due to be pretty fruity on the 9th. We’re forecast 35+ knots and 7-8’ short period swell, but the plan is to sneak into the Juan de Fuca strait just before this and to be honest even if we catch it, it’s no biggie for Falken and we’ll just be scooting along with our snazzy new black sails.
This passage is just under 600 miles, relatively short for Falken, but I’m sure we’ll be kept entertained with dramatic scenery, wildlife and weather!
MaryM
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Shooting Stars & Turtle Logs
Day three out of Ketchikan and FALKEN is running wing on wing down the outside of Vancouver Island. The temptation is to lie back in the cockpit and spend the night watching for shooting stars, but a diligent watch is always the first priority. So we keep a sharp eye out while the shooting stars keep us company through the night. The wildlife keeps coming: humpback and minke whales, five mola molas, dolphins, and a black-footed albatross. We are all feeling lucky for such conditions!
Pot dodging and whale watching
Duncan got us up to eleven knots at one point! The Ferriers also logged our first Orca sighting on their 3am-6am watch! This morning is a gift as the temps are just right and we finally have some blue sky and plenty of sunshine. It was a glorious few hours sailing before it inevitably died as forecast. I live in hope that by sunset tonight we’ll be back sailing as we emerge out of the lee of the island and the wind will be more westerly which lends itself to a better sailing angle.
We are off!
After two days of introductions, safety briefings and boat procedures we have departed Ketchikan. We are currently making a whopping 3.3 knots as there is very little wind in Nichols Passage. Adam fed us well last night with a delicious shrimp curry and Duncan was the winner of a sporty game of the card version Monopoly. With the scenic views and light wind it's quite peaceful out here.