The next morning, we motored out of Cecil Cove on our way to Hotspring Island. We made our way back out into the Hecate Strait, where we encountered some moderate swells and plenty of sunshine. We considered stopping at the Windy Bay Haida Watchmen site, but with the NE swells, there was no good place to anchor. Instead, we continued on to Hotspring Island.
Once we got to Hotspring Island, we called the Haida Watchmen to ask if we could come ashore, as they limit the number of people ashore at one time. Unfortunately, there were 2 other parties already in line waiting, so we had a bit of a wait. However, it was a pretty gorgeous sunny day out, so none of us were too concerned about the delay.
Working on my Junior Navigator merit badge
Eventually, it was our turn, so made our way to shore. The path to the hotsprings was marked with clam shells. Pretty neat.
The Watchmen showed us around the area. There were three different pools to choose from, so we of course had to try all three. First pool was inland and ridiculously hot. Second pool was down by the beach with ample opportunity to "soak until you're about to pass out then run into the freezing cold water and nearly give yourself a heart attack" (I did not partake).
Pool #2
The third pool was my favorite, perched right along a rock cliff overlooking the beach. Temperature was juuuuuust right.
Living the hard life
The third pool was my favorite, perched right along a rock cliff overlooking the beach. Temperature was juuuuuust right.
Beach below pool #3 looking west towards Lyell Island
The Duen dropped off a group while we were soaking
After we had thoroughly soaked ourselves, we made our way back to the Talofa. Following some semi-frantic arm waving in order to get the Captains attention from shore and a quick dinghy ride, we were aboard.
Looking back towards the springs heading west
With the light fading, we decided to motor up Marshall Inlet to find an anchorage for the night. Bit over an hour later, we were firmly anchored and ready for bed. Hot tubbing wears a guy out ya know...
Anchoring by moonlight? No problem
