A Sojourn In Grand Manan

We arrived at Grand Manan yesterday, tried to dock in Seal Cove without success then landed in North Head for the night. Given the dearth of dock space, we are tied up to a large fishing trawler, the Nor’Easter 07. We are unable to hook up to shore power, but not from lack of trying. The amenities at this marina are not quite those of Killam’s Marina, but the folks are extremely friendly and helpful. We are in a hardcore fishing community with two weeks to go in lobster season, and they are fishing hard.

Both Greg and Jason wanted to take a day to recoup (hard boating at times over the last few days covering 450 km) and I was not averse to a boating break. Some minor repairs were completed, some paperwork done, and reservations made for Rockland, Maine - our next stop. Once completed, we turned to exploring Grand Manan. The tides are very high here, as can be noted by the sliding gangway used to reach the road. We were very lucky to have a work friend of Greg’s who very kindly came to get us and gave us a tour of Grand Manan, fed us supper, and hosted a visit to his spectacular property. The gardens were spectacular, and the view breathtaking - Campobello Island and the cost of Maine. A lovely place to spend the spring, summer and fall but quite desolate in winter! Lots of lighthouses to see - we drove from one end of the island to the other. A bucolic setting - very restful. Last evening was a little chilly, but today is definitely much more scenic over the water as the sun sets.

Tonight - the hockey game - will Edmonton pull another rabbit out of their helmets? We shall see. Whatever the outcome, up early tomorrow and on to our next destination. Stay tuned!!