Journey from Okeover Arm to Gorge Harbour: A Day of Scenic Beauty, Whales, and Unexpected Discoveries

Day 34: Okeover Arm to Gorge Harbour – 36.8 Miles

Our journey today took us from the tranquil waters of Okeover Arm to the sheltered haven of Gorge Harbour. Covering 36.8 miles, it was a day filled with breathtaking scenery, thrilling wildlife encounters, and a delightful end with a homemade dinner.

As we set off from Okeover Arm, the morning greeted us with calm waters and the sun slowly breaking through the mist that often blankets these waters. The route was straightforward, and the scenery was nothing short of spectacular—rugged coastlines, forested islands, and the occasional splash of a distant whale or a playful pod of dolphins.

A Majestic Encounter with Humpback Whales

One of the most unforgettable moments of the day was when we spotted five humpback whales. As we continued our journey, we noticed their spouts in the distance, and soon enough, they were close enough to give us a show. A few of them breached, their massive bodies rising out of the water before crashing back down with a thunderous splash. It was a sight that left us in awe, a reminder of the incredible wildlife that calls these waters home.

Attempt at Manson Landing

Our first stop was Manson Landing, a spot we had hoped would offer a place to dock and perhaps explore. However, upon arrival, we quickly realized that the dock was more suited to smaller boats, with limited space that couldn’t accommodate our vessel. The anchorage was also less than inviting, with several boats that looked like they had been there far too long—possibly derelict. It wasn’t the picturesque stop we had imagined, so we decided to continue our journey toward Gorge Harbour.

A Brief Fishing Excursion

With some time on our hands, we decided to drop a line and try our luck with fishing. The waters here are rich with marine life, and it didn’t take long before we had a bite. Unfortunately, the king salmon we hooked was just shy of the size needed to keep, so back it went into the ocean. The thrill of the catch was still a highlight, even if it didn’t end with a fresh fish dinner.

Dinner at Gorge Harbour

As the day drew to a close, we arrived at Gorge Harbour, a favorite spot for many boaters in the area. It’s a serene anchorage, surrounded by natural beauty, and provided the perfect setting for our evening. For dinner, we enjoyed the clams we had harvested earlier in the trip, paired with Marcia’s freshly baked bread. There’s something truly special about ending a day on the water with a meal crafted from the sea’s bounty, especially when it’s accompanied by the warm aroma of bread fresh out of the oven.

As we settled in for the night, the gentle rocking of the boat and the quiet of the harbor reminded us why we love this journey so much. Every day brings something new—whether it’s a breathtaking view, an unexpected discovery, or a simple, satisfying meal shared on deck. Gorge Harbour was the perfect end to another wonderful day on the water.

Here is a video I shot at Gorge Harbor last year right before crashing my drone.