Cruising on the MV Lillian Belle: November 21st New Westminster, BC

Happy Travelers!

Ron Francis Marina

New Westminster, BC

November 21^st

I got to snooze a bit longer this morning since we did not shove off from Steveston until 9 a.m. The tide was going to be in our favor all the way so chances were that we could even reach a mighty 8.5 kt! It was another bright beautiful sunny morning but a crisp 33 degrees. Frost was covering the boat next to us and our frozen hose nozzle was a struggle to disconnect.

Along the way we found ourselves navigating beside and behind a tug towing two empty containers. He slowed down tremendously when he got to the river's south arm turn where we needed to go and was blocking our entrance. We patiently waited way out of his way…rule of bigger applied and we yield. While idling and waiting for the tug to coast past the opening we needed, we heard “Lillian Belle, Lillian Belle, this is Victoria Traffic” on our radio. David responded and was instructed to go to channel 74.

We were then contacted by a similar tug and tow which happened to be behind us wondering what we were planning to do. David explained our strategy and destination and said, “We’ll be out of your way shortly.” The tug operator politely responded, “Thank you, sir.” I don’t ever recall being hailed on the radio before but David remembers one other time.

Our docking wasn’t first rate but we did well considering the challenge. David wasn’t able to get the stern close enough to the dock for me to step off so I had to climb under the railings mid-ship and step off. I tied the mid-line and as David was maneuvering the boat, the line snapped. We then quickly got a bow line tied and then David was able to work the stern in.

We are now back at our home port and basking in our accomplishments. Most of the destinations were brand new to us which is always fun. We docked each time…never used the anchor…which was a more expensive adventure but did give us lots of opportunities to practice our teamwork while getting the Belle settled into various marinas.

We are looking forward to a party here at the marina on Ron and Lynne’s boat, the Linnee, this Saturday night and then plan to head back home on Tuesday in time for Thanksgiving.

We traveled nearly 430 nautical miles and visited 9 towns along the way, five of which were first time experiences. The Lillian Belle proved herself a sturdy and reliable vessel once again. This proud lady makes us look good.

We thank you for following us on our journey. Until next time,

Go Find Yourself an Adventure!