Prince Edward Island

Pei

June 15, 2016

SAILING THE ISLAND

By Monic Dagenais

Motoring out of the Charlottetown Yacht Club, the engine purring below the cabin and the boat rocking slightly against the waves. The sun begins to set in the distance reflecting gloriously against the blue Atlantic water as you finally get far enough from land to set sail. Helping the skipper of the boat, pulling ropes or just watching as the large white sail unfolds from the boom and a sheet immersing onto the mast; you’re sailing!

The engine turns off and the boat lifts slightly out of the water on a heel. The sound of the small waves hitting the side of the boat replaces any motorized sound. Peaceful. The wind pushing the boat forward, tightening and loosening ropes as requested by the skipper. Sitting on the edge of the boat with your feet dangling over the side, the occasional splash of salty water touching your toes.

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Looking out past the water, red cliffs supporting lighthouses on the edges surround you. From the middle of the harbor looking around the boat, three separate lighthouses are visible with others just around the corner. The warm sun is gleaming down on your face as you sail past the rocky sandstone cliffs. The chef on board then presents you with his latest scrumptious creations made fresh in the boats cabin upon departure. After having a few bites the skipper then points out to the right side of the boat where a seals head has popped up out of the water. His body bobs in the blue as he checks out his new neighbors. Behind him are two herons along the shore also enjoying their dinner while scouting for insects, perhaps even a fish if they’re lucky.

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The sun begins to set and the boat prepares for its return back to the yacht club. As the sail lowers and the motor starts up, it is back to reality after an enchanting afternoon in Charlottetown’s memorable Northumberland Straight.

 

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