Following the protocol for leaving anchorages in the North Channel, we followed our GPS “crumbs” out the way we had come in. An especially cryptic caution from Dozier’s Waterway Guide: Great Lakes, page 450 is worth replicating here. “Cautious navigation is mandatory at all times.You dare not assume, simply because what you see looks like an open water stretch, that is is safe to cross. Numerous props, outdrives and keels are destroyed each summer this way. Actively seek local knowledge if unsure about your position or intended destination, because towing services can be few and far between. If you do get lost, stop to determine your location before proceeding. Canadian Chart 2201 provides a comprehensive overview of Georgian Bay.” We depend on paper charts. We also depend of navigational charts running on our iPad and our two Garmin chart plotters to keep us in the proper channels. We bought all the charts and guide books from a couple that had completed The Loop. When we arrived in these big waters of Canada, we bought 10 more of the most up-to-date charts available, $200 US, and we have used them every day! We found the McBean Channel and headed west. Fox Island, the Sagamok Indian Reserve, Oak Bay and Hotham Island passed us on our starboard. A securite announcement of passage was required as we approached The Little Detroit Cut. A large sailboat waited on the west as we cleared from the east. By this time we had moved into The Whaleback Channel. Even though the water is 100+ feet deep in this part of this small-craft channel, rocks are waiting if you should slip out of the channel! We were surprised to find 12 boats settled into Bear Drop Anchorage. Next to every boat were the bobbing heads of swimmers cooling their heels on one of the hottest days of the summer. An added attraction at Bear Drop Anchorage was when colorful kayakers by the throngs slipped past those of us "on the hook". They may have been connected to a nearby YMCA camp.
Created by Darcy O Campbell
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