Day 12: Walsh Cove to Von Donop Marine Park
Our journey today took us from the serene anchorage at Walsh Cove to the lush surroundings of Von Donop Marine Park. The skies were gray and overcast, lending a moody atmosphere to the day, but the weather didn’t dampen our spirits. Instead, it added a layer of mystique to the already breathtaking landscape as we cruised through 26.4 miles of this stunning region, bringing our total trip distance to 323 miles.
Here is our route that we have covered in Desolation Sound so far.
As we left Walsh Cove behind, the waters seemed calm and quiet, almost as if the day was holding its breath. But soon enough, the silence was broken a variety of humpback whales making their way through the water. I think there were 6 to be seen today. Seeing these magnificent creatures up close is always a humbling experience, their massive tails slicing through the water with such grace and power. We watched in quiet reverence as they surfaced and dove, the mist from their blowholes hanging in the cool air.
But the surprises didn’t end there. Shortly after, we encountered a large flock of Pacific white-sided dolphins. These playful creatures danced through the waves, their sleek bodies darting in and out of the water with incredible speed. It was as if they were putting on a show just for us, a joyful contrast to the brooding skies above.
The rest of the journey was smooth sailing, with the muted light casting a soft glow over the rugged coastline and dense forests that define this area. As we approached Von Donop Marine Park, the landscape opened up to reveal a quiet, protected inlet surrounded by towering trees. The park’s sheltered bay promises a peaceful night even if the wind picks up a bit.