Day 9: Why Alert Bay?

After a rather coolish night, we woke to clear, sunny skies.  Check out is at 11:00 am so we took our time over coffee to enjoy the view.  One last look at the bird show:  nuthatches, flickers, eagles, turkey vultures and more.

We set off north on the Island highway and made a pit-stop for groceries in Campbell River.  Someday I really need to actually stop there because it has many hidden gems worthy of further exploration.

The second part of our journey was smooth highway lined with lush trees winding through ever steeper mountains.  Traffic was very light which made for a pleasant journey.

We arrived in Port McNeill with an hour to spare before our ferry was due to leave.  I had wondered if we needed reservations . . . . no, we pretty much had the place to ourselves until about 15 minutes before departure.

The weather was sunny and warm which made our short crossing remind me yet again of our Alaska cruise.  Almost exactly one year ago, on a Sunday, just like today we sailed south just on the other side of Cormorant Island (where the Village of Alert Bay is located).

The signs pointing us to the campground were excellent and we were set up in a jiffy.  The boys played baseball and soccer while I got the BBQ going for dinner.

We took advantage of the sunny evening by taking a walk back down to the waterfront.

So, why Alert Bay?!

In the summer of 2007 and 2008 (I think!?) Micha was stationed in the Village of Alert Bay with the RCMP.  I drove down once each summer so that the boys could visit. Since we were coming to the island anyway, I thought it would be nice to go back there for a visit.

During those two visits, I took a spectacular whale watching tour on a sailboat.  Tomorrow, all three of us are booked to go on the same tour - I can't wait!

Last coffee morning here. 

We fit!