We were keen to jump across to Port NcNeill and get some supplies and have a dinner out. Up anchor at 7:30 for the run across the Strait - and before afternoon winds build.
We left in light rain and dead calm, with patchy fog. Mid-strait we were passed by 3 Orcas, so we shut off the engines, drifted, and enjoyed the show. An eerie scene with the grey everywhere, dead calm, and the whales surfacing and blowing, the sounds carryng across the still water.
A blanket of fog descended and it was back to radar and AIS to get across. A cruise ship passed by in the fog - a strange experience to know something so big and fast is so near yet it cannot be seen. There was enough separation between us that I didn't raise them them on the radio. With hindsight I should have, as I am interested whether they could see us on their radar.
The fog lifted by Malcolm Island. We anchored off Port NcNeill - with a great set - in 30' of water at 10:40 am. Being able to leave the boat with no concerns on the anchor, we headed into town and explored the little museum. It was worth the time - an interesting bit of history. We then headed to the pub for a good dinner, cold drinks, and WiFi access.
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