Log of the Cruise of the S/V Sirius through the Southern

         Queen Charlotte Islands (Gwaii Haanas)

 Original poles still standing at SGang Gway

Experienced by Durkee and Mary J. Richards

Durkee and Mary J. Richards recently traveled from their home in Sequim, Wa. to the Queen Charlotte Islands aboard their 32 foot sailboat Sirius. Their many experiences left them wanting to share their trip with those they left behind, and wanting to help further prepare those who may want to travel their route. While they felt well prepared, they also felt they might have been better equipped by hearing someone else’s experiences.

 So this website is available to anyone wanting an armchair adventure, but even more it is designed to help those who may have plans to head to this wild and historical area.

 This web-site is broken into two sections. First, the daily log from Sequim Bay, through the “inside passage” past Vancouver Island, further north in preparation for crossing to the Islands, the crossing and the visit to the islands, and returning to Sequim Bay via outside Vancouver Island.

 Second, an overview section containing preparations needed, what to find in the Islands, impressions of the Haida people, how to communicate in the area, finding help in emergencies, books to read, and other information helpful in making the most of a visit to the area.

 While this document cannot claim to be a complete guide to the Queen Charlottes, we hope it will be a useful supplement to other forms of preparation.

Sirius, a J-32 designed for comfortable cruising, lying at anchor.

   Section 1, the log of the trip:

    Showing the entire trip
    Sequim Bay to Alert Bay
    Alert Bay to Skidegate
    Gwaii Haanas (The Queen Charlottes)
    Return to "Civilization"

     Section 2, general impressions and information:

    Gwaii Haanas, The Haida People
    Haida Gwaii, Our Cruising Impressions
    Where Are The Poles?
    The Watchmen Program
    Staying in Touch With Home
    Reservations and Fees
    Why We Went
    Preparations
    Klaskish Basin and Katabatic winds
    Written Resources

     Mary Jeanne and Durkee are more than pleased to discuss their trip further and answer any question you may have. Feel free to contact them at dbrmj@earthlink.net.