2 August, 2021. Beautiful cruising day on Lake Michigan

 

67 SM; 9.2 miles

0400, all hands on deck.  Coffee in hand, bible study complete, time to check weather.  Great Lakes weather portal has been very useful.  Along with NWS forecast and wind apps we use daily, we reviewed and studied the various forecasts.  Only two problem areas; the start once clear of Grand Traverse bay with left over NW swell from the strong northerly winds yesterday; and our destination as winds shift to the S-SW and freshen to 15.  But in between it looks great.  So we complete our preparations, review the getting underway checklist and cast off the lines at 0645.

Early morning passing the big boys

Grand Traverse bay sunrise

Looking at our route it appears we did a circle around ourselves.  No but it sure appears so as we had to exit the harbor and proceed about three miles into the bay to clear shoals then loop around the point and clear more shoals before heading on course toward the southwest.  Nearly 1.5 hours just aligning to head to where we wanted to go.  We had a few bail out options if winds were not as forecast.  Two anchorages in Lake Michigan that were reportedly excellent except in north and east winds.  Leland, MI has a small harbor of refuge without any accommodation but a small space I would have anchored in an emergency.  None required today.  Considering how nasty the  Great Lakes can be, today was a pleasant day on the water.  Lumpy and bumpy to start, smoothing out for the next five hours, then lumpy and bumpy to finish.  Forecast and reality aligned nicely.

We have been very surprised at the size and quantity of sand dunes/hills here on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan.  Have to do some research and learn how geologically they were formed.  Beautiful though.  Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Dune mountain

Pretty impressive sand dune

We also passed close aboard Point Betsie Light house. Impressive structure and looks very new

Pt. Betsie light house

We reached our destination, passing into the breakwaters guarded by two large towers on north and south walls.  Lighted with fog alarm.  Another mile at idle speed we arrived at a large anchorage  having plenty of room and no one crowding at all.  We dropped the anchor at 1550, setting it firmly with a bit of reverse, then shut down the diesel and all electronics.  (Map).  Blessed day.  Should have a couple of days we can string together before the next weather system blows though and churns Lake Michigan into a washing machine.  Frankfort, MI looks pretty appealing.  Kim’s anchorage video. Cruiser’s review speak highly of the nearby grocery store and a smoke house.  No intention of going ashore tonight.  Tiring day,  We had leftovers for supper and will enjoy the anchorage and watch the sun go down.  Great day.

5372 SM traveled; 1950.1 hours hobbs.