May 04, 2006
Jan's Journal- Day 6 Port Townsend
Victoria had been beautiful and very European, reminded me of my heritage, still being a UK citizen. The option of stay later in the town was appealing so we stopped and ate at a Tapas bar downtown before making our way back to the Endeavour. Several other guests had stopped and eaten good old fish and chips and had a pint of English Beer. One night out was good; we had a chance to really feel and see the life of Victoria, walking back to the vessel was so pretty with the evening lights twinkling over the Capital building .
We woke early next day to some bumpy weather, the Straits of Juan de Fuca are renown for being a little wild and they lived up to their reputation! Still a few were in the lounge for coffee and a spot of breakfast although the cups and plates not quite so full in-case of spills. By 9:00am the weather had turned brighter as we entered into the Harbor at Port Townsend. Waiting at the dock were several tour guides dressed in Victorian garb and looking very fancy with feathered hats, with information packets in hand. We had an open day, we could take the tour or stay on board or wander at our pace, we chose to take the tour.
Port Townsendis full of beautiful old brick buildings, the Port was at one time the Capital of the Seattle area. Boats were sail driven and wanted to unload or load as soon as possible, vessels did not get as far as Seattle or Tacoma. As we strolled down the streets each building had its own history and story, adding to the intrigue of the town. As steam became the industrial fuel the port grew adding rail and increasing the size of the town. However this new mode of transportation also allowed travel to Seattle and further down into the Puget Sound taking some of the industry with it. As time passed the town lost prosperity and became more of an artist community, today this is still true. Many famous writers and painter live in the local 
neighborhood along with screen actors and playwrights. To day the town’s main employer is the paper mill at the end of the inlet and summer tourism. The Museum was well worth the visit, the historical society providing many old photographs and artifacts. They are very proud of their heritage, even our guide had moved from San Francisco just to be closer to a historical community. The town had a super selection of boutique and antique shops all welcoming the Endeavour guests.
The sun shone very brightly as we walked back to the ship, we ate lunch and wandered back to the town. The day was low key and leisurely and was delightful as we strolled through the elegant Victorian homes.
It was Captains Dinner on the last night; we had a champagne toast and wine with dinner. Captain Mike gave a wonderful parting message then introduced the full crew. What a team they were, nothing too much trouble, every effort 
made to give the best experience. It was our last evening to share stories, laughter and highlights. This was an eye-opening trip for me, the first on a small-ship and the first with Cruise West. I understand now what up close, casual and personal means and how that adds so much to the enjoyment of the trip. I made new friends, shared all kinds of moments with like-minded people, and took advantage of new adventure opportunities. We had an evening of photography put together by Meriwether and Copper; there were lots of smiles and loud laughter looking at the special moments of the trip. And the two Exploration leaders were fabulous!!! Meriwether and Copper are a mine of information every moment of every day, they had stories, lectures and humorous tales to tell. No matter if it was bears, flowers, marine life or trees they had something interesting to share. Thanks for reading my stories, I hope it has given some insight to the daily fun and adventures onboard. The British Columbia Coastal Wilderness is just one of many itineraries Cruise West has created, I heard about many more from guests who have fallen in love with the casual style of cruising. I would love to hear from others guests that have been on this trip or any other trip.
Cheers for now.
Jan Sheeley
Director Marketing and Communication
Cruise West
Posted by Jan on May 4, 2006 1:28 PM
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