A Hard Lesson on the Way to Barkley Sound

Before GPS, weather apps and modern VHF radios, an O’Day 25’s first trip into the open Pacific showed why careful passage planning, self-sufficiency and a healthy respect for the weather matter.

By
Bert Vermeer
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Hanging out the wet gear to dry in the sun. (Photo/ Bert Vermeer)

As a young family we had been sailing Dreamer, our O’Day 25, for five years, exploring the fabulous cruising grounds of the Canadian Gulf Islands from our home port of Tsawwassen, a community just south of Vancouver, British Columbia. We had crossed Georgia Strait (now referred to as the Salish Sea) in gales and calms, under sparkling blue skies and through driving rain, and enjoyed the tranquility of our favorite anchorages.

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Bert Vermeer
Bert Vermeer
As a coastal cruise (and occasional racer & ocean crosser), Bert Vermeer has sailed the coast of British Columbia for over 40 years. With his wife Carey & daughter Nicky (and eventually granddaughter Natasha) in tow, Bert has gained an appreciation for the fabulous cruising grounds of the Canadian west coast. Based on his experience as a hands-on boater, he established a marine based business after completing his police career. Bert stays busy during the winter months dabbling in You Tube sailing videos and writing tales of summer adventures, awaiting blue skies and warm winds.

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