March 26, 2023 – Nice breeze from the South allowed us to sail out of Friday Harbor wing on wing in a current back eddy very close to the forested shoreline to Point Caution. A speedy beam reach took us over to the Wasp Islands through the narrow pass of Nob Island for a moments respite in calm peaceful waters. Continuing along the North side of Yellow Island we sailed downwind again to Jones Island and up towards Flattop National Wildlife Refuge. Currents were carrying us West so we motor sailed to reach the East side of Flattop. More harbor seals than we’ve ever seen there were packed into the cove to the North East. We drifted passed them riding the current in the lee of the island passed the geological fruit cake of the cliffs. The current carried us very quickly to Spieden island where we drifted around Green Point sideways to admire the posturing Steller sea lions. Through Spring Pass to drop back to the Wasp Islands this time taking the pass at Coon Island to head back to Friday Harbor. A magical Spring time sail in the islands.
Bald eagle outside of Friday Harbor
Barbara
Capt Skye
Common Mergansers
Bald eagle
Passenger on the helm sailing wing on wing
Looking up Presidents Channel
South side of Flattop Island
Harbor seals on Flattop Island
Harbor seals on Flattop Island with glacial erratic
Harbor seals on Flattop Island
North side of Flattop Island
Steller sea lions on Green Pt, Spieden Island
Steller sea lions on Green Pt, Spieden Island
Steller sea lions on Green Pt, Spieden Island
Steller sea lions on Green Pt, Spieden Island
Harbor seals hauled out
Harbor seal resting on a rock high and dry
Looking west up Spieden Channel
Bald eagle on Shirt Tail Reef Channel Marker
The head of Turtleback Mountain and Deer Harbor
Route map 3/26/23