Blog post #6
James Island is a dog bone Island, with two summits connected by a low narrow isthmus. The shape forms east and west coves which are almost ideal anchorages. The east cove is open to Rosario Strait so it is subject to more wind and wave action. The west cove is a little larger with room for six or more thirty foot boats at the dock and quite a bit of anchor room a dinghy ride away. On shore are a number of campsites with tables and fire pits, and of course the popular composting toilet. Trails circle the island and lead to the summit which is somewhat rounded and knobby, opening the question of exactly where the highest point is. All of James Island is a State Park, camping or using the dock overnight requires paying a self service fee as do the anchor buoys. Anchoring in the cove is free and many choose to do so. Campers on shore or at the dock can expect local residents paying them a visit, and not just after dark. Raccoons are seen ransacking kayaks pulled high up on the beach while their oblivious owners are only a short distance away. Boats at the dock and anchored out are open game for Otters that will climb lines and chains, leaving behind distinctive footprints on deck, evidence of their transgressions on private property. Yes, that thump you heard during the night was real, you’ve been boarded, and not by pirates.
While Mike and Tom’s family take care of exploring and preparing for a campfire dinner on shore the two men busy themselves dropping Tom’s mast. Taking down a mast on a stable trailer in the parking lot is one thing, but a rocking unstable boat is precarious at best. In Toms hurry he almost loses the mast over the side, Mikes quick action securing a temporary stay does the trick. With the mast lowered they screw the radio antenna to its base and retrieve the wayward halyard. Tom sees the wisdom of having a spare halyard.
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