June 12

Now is the winter of our discontent made glorious summer by getting back on schedule and seeing the sun.

Gary woke me at 8 am. The Parks Canada people had begun their day and we were about to go through the lock.  They were exceptional and got us through the lock quickly and past a revolving bridge.

Entering St. Peter's Lock.

 We motored on up the canal and stopped at the St. Peter’s Marina. It is in a beautiful spot. We tied up and replenished our fuel. Then I went up the road to get groceries (and found a Horton’s). We both got showers and were fit to face the day. The day rewarded us with sun, beautiful surroundings and a light breeze. After completing our run up the channel to the lower (and smaller) of the Bras d’Or Lakes we shut down the engine, set sail and had a leisurely sail up to the Barra Stait. Here we stopped at the Barra Strait Marina in Grand Narrows.

Barra Strait Marina, Day's end!

 It is a little down at the heel and looks as though it is being newly started after being abandoned. Having said that, the location is prime, the staff is very friendly and helpful. The docks need work but the washrooms, showers and laundry are clean and good. We settled in and made dinner. Tomorrow looks to be leisurely so as soon as I post this it’s off to bed to make up for a lot of lost sleep. I’ll sleep well knowing we’re back on schedule and (barring unforeseen eventualities) we’ll be in North Sydney by the evening of the 14^th.

Gary

With but a little time spent in the Bras d’Or Lakes, it is clear to me that a couple of weeks would be great to cruise the different parts.  As it is we will just be able to sail through and take in some of the sights.  Tomorrow we will have some time to just putter around before heading into Baddeck for the night.