The best laid plans of mice and men…… On the way to Baddeck, the auto helm (auto pilot) got busted. Auto is a fabulous instrument that enables the cap’n and crew enjoy some time together. Not necessary of course but sure handy, especially when sailing alone. Voila – Super Dave back in the picture. With new auto helm in hand. Late getting here so another night in Baddeck is in the cards.

Enjoyed a few swallies last night at the Baddeck Yacht Club with some locals and some visiting boaters. There is no doubt that a brotherhood/sisterhood exists in the boating community. We’ve been heartily welcomed in every port. In West Jaddore, Jon V took our garbage, in Liscombe, the lodge staff laundered our sleeping bags (which were wet and dank) at no charge, at St. Peter’s the gate keeper gave us tips for our journey through the Bras d’Or Lake, at Baddeck we were welcomed by a bagpiper! You get the picture.

The Austrian couple just arrived, and another couple from England on their way to Greenland is here as well. They are being joined shortly by friends from Maryland – we’ve been invited out to their mooring to join them all for a visit tonight and in the morning, seems there will quite a floatilla heading towards the Cabot Strait.

Monday calls for 35 knots of wind from the south east – won’t be nice on the Cabot Strait so current plan is to cross over Tuesday when the winds are 10-15 knots West – Southwest which will be quite pleasant sailing.

Will be 4 days late 10 days in…….3 in the bank so 1 day behind. How do you like that math?