A Ferry Ride

 

There is no bridge between Vancouver Island and the rest of Canada. Instead, we rely on BC Ferries. A fleet of variously sized boats, ply the coastal waters, connecting islands big and small. 

There are those who long for a land link and find the 90-minute crossing tiresome. Not me.

I enjoy traveling on the ferry. There is nothing I have to do: it's a time to read a book, eat a relaxing meal, sip tea, or admire the passing scenery. 

Hundreds of islands and islets of all sizes dot the Salish Sea. Collectively known as the Gulf Islands, some are inhabited and others are parks. Here a bit of lingering snow lies on the shaded slope.

Standing on the back of the ferry the sharp wind whipped my hair (and the flag) and chilled me to the bone. I didn't stay on deck long, but wanted to enjoy the crisp (very) air and gorgeous sunshine for a few minutes. 

Tomorrow, February 15, marks 60 years since we adopted our beautiful red and white maple leaf flag. Prior to 1965 Canada flew the Union Jack, the national flag of the UK. I love my country and think our flag a beautiful sight. 

We wind our way through the islands, passing Portland Island where we take our own boat and go hiking. Salt Spring and Prevost Island lie to port and Pender to starboard. We round the corner into Active Pass, so named for the USCS Active, which was, in 1855, the first steamer to navigate the passage separating Galiano and Mayne Islands. 

Houses of all sizes dot the shoreline, all having one thing in common - a deck or patio overlooking the water. Who wouldn't want to have views like this? Today, on our return home on the ferry, a large flock of Common Terns floated on the water, lifting off in a cloud of white when the ship's horn blew a long blast to warn of its entrance into Active Pass. 

We visited my parents who live on the mainland, about 1 1/2 hours from the ferry. After leaving the ferry terminal on Vancouver Island, our drive home is only about 20 minutes. 

(edited to add: We spent two nights at my parents' place. Although we have done the round trip in a day, it's a long one.)

It was a slow afternoon. Unpacking, a bit of grocery shopping, some desultory cleaning, and reading that led to heavy eyes and a short nap. While I was out I dropped off some simple Valentines for our grandchildren. For the two of us we will likely do something tomorrow to celebrate Valentine's Day.