The Rainbow Promise

After our visit at Boat Harbour, we departed Dodd Narrows for passage at slack water; boats at the Narrows were lined up, slowly making their way through the narrow opening in single file. An uneventful passage and we were through the “gate,” approaching the city of Nanaimo.

Docks at Newcastle Island, Nanaimo in the background

Our first night was spent at Newcastle Island Marine Park, Java’s favorite place to romp and play among the daisies. The island has recently taken on the Native name of Saysutshun.

Our mini-dachshund is approaching 17 years and nearing her end of life; perhaps this will be her last romp on this lovely island, which offers hiking trails, camp sites, and wonderful views. Her spirit is still strong and will carry with us always.

The second night was spent at the Nanaimo Yacht Club docks. As members of a reciprocal yacht club in Anacortes, we made use of the reciprocal program, which provides space for visiting yacht club members. The yacht club docks are farther out of town than those of the city docks, but downtown is easily accessed by bicycle.

Red's Bakery, a new bakery in Nanaimo

We spent the day taking care of errands, including grocery shopping, haircuts, and catching up on other chores. Leonard of course found the bakery in town, Red’s Bakery, which opened in 2017.

Waterfront Park in Nanaimo, Newcastle Island and Protection Island in the distance

With grocery bags tied to our handlebars, we bicycled back to our boat, passing the lovely waterfront parks of Nanaimo.

It was a quiet evening back at the boat, with time to enjoy the picnic table on the dock for happy hour. The sky soon filled with a red glow and a beautiful rainbow appeared over the harbour.

It is said that a rainbow is the promise of another day. Perhaps Java will be around for a while longer.