Patriot Dreams: Oops...Thought this one posted, but it didn't. August 17, 2015 - Little Current...just entering North Channel

Without a doubt, this part of the journey has presented a dead tie with our other most beautiful sight along the loop – tie between this Georgian Bay area and the most beautiful beach in the world in the Bahamas: both very different in topography and allure, but equally breathtaking.

Everyone told us how spectacular the Georgian Bay would be, but it’s not something that can be conveyed through conversation, nor pictures. Personal experience truly delivers the awe and wonder of this natural treasure!

On Thursday we tied to the dock in Killarney at Sportsman’s Inn & Marina and hustled down the street to gorge ourselves on fresh fish (whitefish and lake trout) at Killarney’s hot spot restaurant, Herbert’s Fisheries. Yummy! In the evening we enjoyed docktails with Dr’s Orders, CJ, Thistle, 2 if by C, Blue Willow, and Lucky Ducks (formerly Average Looper) before retiring for the night.

Killarney was founded in 1820 but was not accessible by a road until 1962. The population at Killarney has a population of approximately 400 and sits along a channel that separates George Island from the mainland of Ontario. Dockhands at the Sportsman’s Marina were very helpful, and assistance was appreciated to maneuver into the very tight slips.

Friday morning brought bright blue skies, a warm breeze and abundant sunshine for our ride to Baie Fine (pronounced Bay Finn) where we anchored at The Pool, the very tip of Baie Fine, beside a granite wall, tied to Blue Willow. The trip to Baie Finn was again breathtaking – a narrow channel bordered by high cliffs, truly living up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful fiords in North America. Bordering the channel on the north were the Blue Ridge, and Killarney Ridge on the south, both over 400 feet in height. The white granite and green trees blended to create the illusion of snow-covered mountains. The crystal clear blue-green water, surrounded by the white granite and green trees took our breath away. Little did we know that the most awe-inspiring trek was ahead of us – Topaz Lake.

We had heard about beautiful Topaz Lake but hadn’t anticipated what we would see. We took our dinghies to the shore, tied to a dock, and took the 20-minute hike up the mountain, twisting and turning all the way, being careful to avoid making a misstep on the rocky path. The reward was golden when we reached the top and gazed across Topaz Lake – aptly named because of its clear, topaz color. It was our playground of the day, swimming and lounging in the refreshing water – a welcome refreshment to rinse our sweaty bodies after the long climb and hot, humid weather. Nothing we have seen in the U.S. can compare to this - we have now reached the apex of beauty for this trip!!

After leaving the lake and taking our dinghies around the area, we discovered that Thistle had joined us in the anchorage and were preparing for their excursion to Topaz. After enjoying dinner with Blue Willow, the four of us joined Thistle on their beautiful boat for after-dinner cocktails and great company. They have Tower 14-ft. paddleboards, which they kindly offered to us for a test run. Mark & Jim took them up on the offer and have both decided paddleboards like these are next on the list of things to purchase. We envision the fun that we and our families will have in our Northern Michigan water wonderland!

The three of us (Thistle, Blue Willow and Patriot) left this yesterday (Sunday) on our way to the Benjamin Islands, with a short stop in Little Current for provisions. There was a high head advisory - expected to reach 98 degrees so after some deliberation over lunch in Little Current, we decided to spend the night. We enjoyed a light "snack" dinner and cards with Blue Willow and Thistle.

This morning (Monday) we attended the Little Current Cruisers Net broadcast and will depart later this morning and travel to the Benjamin Islands for one night. Even at 7:00am it is proving that it will again be another very HOT, muggy day.