Troop Narrows to Shearwater

Not every cruising day is defined by a challenging passage or a spectacular destination. Some days simply serve as a bridge between adventures, and today was one of them.

The run from Troop Narrows to Shearwater was about as straightforward as they come. Despite its name, Troop Narrows presents few challenges. It is well charted, with ample depth and currents that rarely dictate when you can safely transit. Before long, we were approaching familiar docks at Shearwater.

Our first stop wasn't our slip, but the fuel dock. We topped off with 100 gallons of diesel—not because we needed it immediately, but because it gives us greater flexibility as we begin the journey south toward our next planned fuel stop in Port McNeill. One of the lessons we've learned over the years is that having options is almost always worth more than squeezing every last mile from a tank of fuel.

Shearwater also marks a return to the practical side of cruising. The next couple of days will be filled with laundry, routine maintenance, planning the next leg of the trip, and checking off the collection of small boat projects that seem to accumulate after weeks of exploring remote anchorages.

Of course, not every stop in civilization has to be about chores.

During Karen's trip back to the States earlier this summer, I discovered the Lodge's new restaurant and enjoyed it enough to return twice. Karen missed those meals, so she made it clear that our first evening back in Shearwater would include dinner there. It proved to be an excellent choice. Our dock neighbors aboard Leigh Ann joined us, and all of us came away impressed by both the food and the relaxed atmosphere.

As we were leaving, Karen noticed a small sign in the lobby pointing upstairs to a lounge. Curious, we returned the following evening when it opened. What we found felt like one of those discoveries that somehow escapes most visitors. Comfortable couches overlook the harbor through large windows, while the adjoining bar offers a handful of tables, a pool table, and, best of all, the ability to order anything from the restaurant menu.

It's the kind of place that invites you to linger long after your meal is over.

Like many of our favorite discoveries on this cruise, it wasn't something we'd planned to find. Sometimes all it takes is following a small sign, opening an unfamiliar door, and being willing to see what's on the other side. We have a feeling the Shearwater Lounge will become a regular stop whenever our travels bring us back this way.