**Gulf Islands Trip Report **Day 4**

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Day 4 weather started off a bit wet. Just one of those gloomy rainy days where it is nice to just hang out and drink something warm. Our first destination was Conover Cove on Wallace Island. This tiny little cove would require us to tie a stern line to the shore to prevent the boat from swinging into other anchored boats. It was pretty and all, but not so alluring that I just had to paddle here. I suggested that we motor right on by and continue on to Ganges. We had been told by some folks at West Marine that Ganges was a great place to go. “An artsy little town.” Although we were warned that there were hippies there. Like hippies are some sort of dangerous creature. (Maybe they are with the deadly Patchouli smell, I hate that smell!!!!!) We had a nice lunch and walked around the town and although it was nice enough I definitely didn’t understand what the fuss was about. Nothing special here as far as I could see. Just another town.

M was able to find a knitting shop and we were greeted by a friendly humming bird just outside. Again she loves the creatures.

We got our fix of espresso and returned for an evening paddle in Ganges Harbour. Our destination was the First Sister Island that was supposed to have the remains of an old castle built by an eccentric Scottsman that used to live there. As we paddled out of the marina we took a closer look at a yacht that we had seen first at Friday Harbor. The Paraffin was a beast of a pleasure craft. Following it everywhere it went was another power boat that acted as a tender. I would be happy with it’s little tender. On both sides were two more power boats sitting on the deck. This yacht is hugemongous! 197 feet long with every amenity imaginable. Check out this link for more to find out how those without money concerns live.

Next we came across Powder Island. Just barely big enough for a small home this private island is for sale $645,000 and it can be yours. If you feel yourself with that kind of money floating around with no idea what to spend it on check it out at Salt Spring Island Real Estate.

Powder Island

We paddled past Goat Island and the Dead Mans Islands until we got to the First Sister Island. We circled the island looking for the castle, but didn’t find much. So we continued on to the Third Sister Island. This shouldn’t be missed. The white shell beach is amazing. There are no homes on this island and there is a trail that goes from one end to the other with some really great views.

Scottish Castle on First Sister Island maybe?

Shell beach on Third Sister Island

The paddle back to the marina was very casual. A little bit of incoming tide to help us along. One caution though if you ever paddle Ganges Harbour. Watch out for float planes. I was amazed at the number of float planes coming and going as we paddled along. We were sure to stay close to shore as we didn’t want to become a part of their landing or take off. I would hate to be like these guys…

Stay tuned. Day 5 and six were the highlight of the whole trip as we explored the waters closer to home.