Yin and Yang

We're in Bedwell Harbor this evening.  We cleared customs on our way in, one of the reasons I stop here every year. It's quiet, well protected and clearing customs is easy. The network of trails around the island is also a nice feature.

We could clear in Nanaimo. In fact we did during COVID when Bedwell was closed. But Nanaimo is SO chaotic: boats, ferries, and float planes; military vessels, dinghies and kayaks; they're constantly flying everywhere. You have to be constantly on guard, watching everything that moves. The threats come from everywhere. I find it to be such a stressful environment. it's always a relief to get out of Nanaimo.  We'll be there in two days when Tina departs, but for now we have Bedwell Harbor. 

Two highlights of the day include the hiking we did as soon as we got here. The island is hilly, so hiking across it is a grunt. It's not likely to be done without sweating. Therein lies the second highlight of the day: showers on the back deck. Quijote is a center cockpit boat. That leaves room on the back for a shower. It's fed by a water pressure system that includes a water heater. It can warmed by the engine during the day, offering hot showers at night.

I've had this anchorage to myself every year since 2016. This is the first time time I'm sharing it with other boats. Times, they are a changin'.