Port McNeill, Vancouver Island

We were gently rocked to sleep last night by the few swells that made it into the bay.   The anchor took a while to bring up this morning as the chain had wrapped around the bridle and didn't want to come loose.  Around 09:45 we headed out to Queen Charlotte Strait to light fog and lighter breeze.  As we came into the opening, we were amazed as at least eight bald eagles were taking turns feeding on tiny fish that were boiling to the surface.  The eagles would swoop down and take  a few fish at a time in their talons.  A group of diver ducks where all around probably driving the fish into a concentrated area.  When the eagles were finished a flock of sea gulls started feeding using their beaks until the school had dissipated.  The strait has just enough wind to set the sails and proceed at a respectable 4.0 knots.  Brad put his fishing line out and we trolled along.  No luck today, but we did see salmon being cleaned at the docks in Port McNeill.  Upon reaching the Vancouver side, we put the sails away and proceeded to Sointula on Malcom Island.  The marina didn't look very promising and they didn't have fuel, so we left and made way for Port McNeill across Cormorant Channel.  Arriving at the marina we had a bit of a wait getting into the fuel docks.  Once in we took about 28 gallons at a price of $5.07 per gallon.  The staff here is very friendly and helpful.  We decide to stay the night.  Moorage is $1.10 per foot plus $7.00 for 30 amp electrical.  Brad washed the salt from the boat and filled the water tank, then we walked into town.  At an auto parts store we were able to purchase 10 more 10 micron fuel filters.  That should hold us for awhile as we head out into the ocean and stir up the fuel tank.   We're polishing the fuel now using the 2 micron filter as we set at the dock.  In town we also ate dinner at the pub which was a treat for both of us.  This is the first time eating out since Seattle and I'm not sure that counts as it was at the grocery store deli.  After dinner we walked to the IGA and got loonies (Canadian dollar coins) to do the wash tomorrow.  Todays stats:  Outside temp mid 60's, sea temp?, engine hours 3.8, sailed 1-2 hours,  nautical miles 24.1, total trip miles 452.6, GPS coordinates 50.35.501N /127.05.463W.

Sea Gull grabbing breakfast

Staying in Port McNeill at the marina for a second night.  Lots to do in town.  After cleaning the interior of the boat and applying rain ex to the cockpit windows, I started the laundry while Brad hits a few stores looking for fishing gear and boat parts.  After lunch we went back to town to grocery shop.  The Magna Cart is really coming in handy.  We talked to a fisherman on the docks who is catching Chinook at 150 ft. on sardines.  Boats left and new boats took their place.  We met a couple from Elliot Bay Marina who have been up north since May and are working their way down slowly.  Dinner out again at Gus' Pub.  I'm really starting to like Port McNeill

Port McNeil's Fuel Dock & Marina