With a prediction for mild conditions, we headed for our next stopover, Washington Island with the dawn. As we headed out it was cloudy, cool and calm, but the wind and waves built throughout the day until we found ourselves pounding into the kind of steep waves that Lake Michigan sailors know so well. We estimated five foot waves to be the norm with some larger waves thrown in occasionally. Enough so that our bimini top (over the cockpit), 11 feet above the water was wet when we got in.
Pearl Lee is a very sturdy and comfortable boat, but the motion became a bit monotonous. Adding
to our boredom was nothing but water and whitecaps as far as we could see. Due to some very shallow water we had to go south of Detroit Island and approach the harbor from between Detroit and Plum Islands. The channel is well marked. Eventually we got into the protected waters of the harbor and arrived at Kap’s Marina. If you go to Kap’s, don’t expect a sleek modern appearance or concierge service. What you’ll get is a family owned marina with friendly helpful staff and crystal clear water. There is an onsite restaurant with a 50’s motif and great food. Be on your best behavior, the Coast Guard station will be your neighbors at Kap’s. Overall the place brought back childhood memories of north-woods fishing resorts. Since it was July third we decided to stay put for Independence Day. Kap’s even had their own fireworks display that evening, so as not to compete with the town’s display on the fourth.
We fully intended to spend the Fourth of July wandering the town, but frankly we were exhausted. So we spent the day puttering around the boat and mostly just relaxing. This was our first “day off” since the journey began in LaSalle. We both agreed, the day off was needed, and some rest, sunshine and warm temps improved our spirits. All in all, a fine place to be on a sunny Fourth of July.
Next up would be a cruise past scenic Door County on our way to Sturgeon Bay.
Continue to Part 12