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Jennifer Donogh

Travel Log
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March 31, 2022

Casting off for the San Juan Islands as New Boat Owners

San Juan Islands

In this video our family of four heads off for the first time on our new to us 41 ft ketch in the American Pacific Northwest. Find out where we cast off to!

The kids started school, doing conferences over Zoom. We were ready to get off the dock as a family for Labor Day weekend, after being approved for insurance. Our plan was to leave for anchorage on Friday night, but ended up pushing it to the next morning.

Trip #1 Clark Island

Saturday morning we stopped for a diesel top off for the first time. We thought it was pretty expensive. We’re now in late March of 2022 and prices back in September are looking pretty good!

Shane grew up on a boat doing offshore cruising and has spent the last decade paddleboarding the Puget Sound as much as he could, even doing a 100 mile paddle from Olympia to Port Townsend. He loves teaching the boys about the way the water moves and have to navigate through it.

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A post shared by Shane Donogh (@wilder85)

For my part, I’ve been on a journey of figuring out what to feed my crew. It really has nothing to do with moving on to the boat. Our galley is small, but it has everything I need, for the most part. For the first year of Covid I was going overboard on ensuring our immune systems were in tip top shape. Then, the second year while we were moving my efforts became about convenience and keeping morale up. Is anyone else experiencing this? Going to the grocery store used to be an exciting challenge for me to see where I could best reduce my waste and find the most affordable and fun ways to buy good food. I have not felt that way in a long time.

After a quick cruise thanks to Shane’s timing with the current we reach Clark Island where we grab a mooring ball for the night. Clark Island is a marine state park off the coast of Orcas Island. With a beautiful sandy beach on the westside. While the morning balls were full on that end, we still loved the pebble beach we were off of. Washington State Parks acquired it in 1964, offering those who can reach it by boat opportunities to camp and fish.

On another note, mooring balls and docks available through the state have a maximum of three night stay that you can pay for by day or through an annual permit. Mooring balls are also only available to boats that are 45 feet or smaller. To anchor is free and is limited to thirty consecutive days on state land.

It’s a small island with beautiful views, good cell service, nice beaches, and a short walking trail. The good cell service is key. You can see the cell tower on Orcas Island across the way.

The kids got new rain gear to make going out on the dinghy in the rain easier. I went back to get matching rain gear later on. The kids were thrilled – they’re not, that is a lie. It rained while we were out making for a cozy interior. Shane took advantage of the rain by doing some cleaning

New rain gear from LFS in Bellingham.

I got this light for Wyatt. It has a speaker and a light in it. It’s not my favorite, but it’s worked out for us so far. Shane brought back some boat memories of his childhood with some Lionel Richie.

We left Clark Island early to head back to the marina. Shane’s niece was getting married and we were excited to be able to celebrate with the family.

Bellingham Bay was experiencing a red tide in September.

In other news – Wyatt lost a tooth onboard!

The week in between boat adventures was jam packed. We commuted back to the kids’ school program in Carnation for the first time from Bellingham. When we got back to the boat we explored the area more, this time checking out a few shops – where we bought these – and eating out at Fairhaven. The cafe we went to was right next to a square where they usually hold outdoor movies. A dance group was using it instead doing some sort of social event. We loved watching them.

I’ve purchased new pots and pans since then.

Trip #2 Lummi Island

We’re off again, this time we’re going to two nearby islands and doing some sailing. We were able to motorsail for a bit on our way to Lummi Island, but ultimately lacked the wind we needed. Lummi Island is just across the bay from Bellingham, so it was a quick motor over. Aren’t the colors beautiful over here. It’s gray, rainy and cold for a later summer cruise, but beautiful. This was our first experience anchoring as a couple on our own boat. Thankfully it worked out on our first try.

At night we saw bats and phosphorescence in the water. I promise it was there. It was a soft whitish glow that brightened when Shane stirred up the water. The kids watched Ferris Bueller for the first time, at anchor using our 5G hotspot.

Shane paddled around Eliza Island and a few named rocks near our anchorage in the morning. My hair was annoying me since moving onboard and in a moment of weakness I saw someone in Bellingham who chopped it all off and I immediately regretted it. It has since grown out, what can you do? Kelly was a happy kid being able to still watch his Seahawks play while out.

Vendovi Island

We head off to Vendovi Island, the reason behind the trip. This was our last chance to visit. The San Juan Preservation Trust owns Vendovi Island, who closes the island at the end of September until April 1st. The Trust explains that the importance for the conservation comes from the fact that only two of the 217 acres of the island has been developed, making it the wildest private islands in the San Juan archipelago.

We were the only ones there when we arrived. The caretaker came to greet us and take a line. We hiked the two miles of trail on the island and spent plenty of time at the incredible beaches observing tide pools.

The dock at Vendovi Island is a first come, first serve and limited to three hour visits.

The island was named after Chief Ro Vendovi of the Fiji Islands. He was held responsible for the murder of about ten members of an American whaling ship. He was made prisoner by Captain Charles Wilkes during The Exploring Expedition of 1838-42. Wilkes’ crew ended up liking their prisoner and named the island after him.

This island also saw a variety of inhabitants such as retreat members of the “Peaceful Paradise of the Pacific,” followers of Father Divine, an African American spiritual leader. The most recent owners were the Fluke Family. John Fluke Sr. was the inventor or the multi-meter and is buried on the island. Their three bedroom home is also still on the island.

Looking over at Guemes Island from Vendovi.

Here we’re looking over at Guemes Island

How incredible are the colors on the island – the madrona trees are especially bright.

The madrona trees on Vendovi Islands are beautiful.

We sailed on our way back to the marina, using the mizzen for the first time.

In my next video, we experience a preview of what our winter will be like onboard and take a quick trip to gorgeous Cypress Island.

Shane skippering us under sail!
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Our Family Visits Cypress Island in the San Juan Islands
Hi, I’m Jennifer Donogh,

Hi, I’m Jennifer Donogh,

the Cruise Director for our 41' ketch sailboat. We're traveling a lot, so creating healthy routines is a priority for me. Plus, planning fun excursions, meals, and onboard activities for our family of 4.

Current Location

Current Location
San Juan Islands

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Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
jenniferdonogh
jenniferdonogh
•
Follow
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people. If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
5 days ago
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1/1
@jenniferdonogh

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  • Family Winter Update

    January 9, 2023
  • Reality Check: Fall Edition

    October 23, 2022
  • Hippity Hops Through the San Juans

    August 5, 2022

Follow Along @JenniferDonogh

Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. 

Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people.

If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
jenniferdonogh
jenniferdonogh
•
Follow
Another adventure on the island! It's so beautiful here. Winter is the time to be here — ferries, hotels, and rental cars are more affordable. Plus, there’s a quarter of the people. If you can be patient with ferry cancellations/changes, odd restaurant hours, some windy bits, a little rain here and there (this is the sunshine belt though), the odd snow storm — then winter is 👌 😋
5 days ago
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1/6
V A L E N T I N E ‘ S  D A Y

Coco Mar is all setup for Valentine’s Day! Last year Wyatt and I did a doodle challenge for February that Kelly and Shane are joining us in this year. We’re also going to watch some rom coms! 

#valentinesday #boatlife #liveaboard
jenniferdonogh
jenniferdonogh
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V A L E N T I N E ‘ S D A Y Coco Mar is all setup for Valentine’s Day! Last year Wyatt and I did a doodle challenge for February that Kelly and Shane are joining us in this year. We’re also going to watch some rom coms! #valentinesday #boatlife #liveaboard
5 days ago
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2/6
You know it gets windy there with the gnarled trees and grass like that 😋

The boys and I tried to hike around here last June when we anchored in Griffin Bay. I had to call Shane to pick us up early in the dinghy because my eyes were too swollen and itchy to keep going. Oh well! We had a mostly dry hike this time and the views were beautiful. Especially on the west side overlooking Victoria.
jenniferdonogh
jenniferdonogh
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You know it gets windy there with the gnarled trees and grass like that 😋 The boys and I tried to hike around here last June when we anchored in Griffin Bay. I had to call Shane to pick us up early in the dinghy because my eyes were too swollen and itchy to keep going. Oh well! We had a mostly dry hike this time and the views were beautiful. Especially on the west side overlooking Victoria.
3 weeks ago
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3/6
2023 New Year’s Resolution - to unlock nuisance level.

A quick walk while Shane and the boys watched the Seahawks game on the first day of the year at American Camp. A National Park on San Juan Island with a fun story. 

The song I wanted to use wasn’t working, so I did this one on a whim. Funny, it’s what I was thinking about while on my walk. In 2022 I stayed “in” to “get things done” a lot. That was something I had moved away from in the years prior. It’s a little harder when you’re in a small space! It’s a learning curve.

David Bowie 🤯
jenniferdonogh
jenniferdonogh
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2023 New Year’s Resolution - to unlock nuisance level. A quick walk while Shane and the boys watched the Seahawks game on the first day of the year at American Camp. A National Park on San Juan Island with a fun story. The song I wanted to use wasn’t working, so I did this one on a whim. Funny, it’s what I was thinking about while on my walk. In 2022 I stayed “in” to “get things done” a lot. That was something I had moved away from in the years prior. It’s a little harder when you’re in a small space! It’s a learning curve. David Bowie 🤯
4 weeks ago
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4/6
Cozy cozy onboard Coco Mar for Christmas 🎄⛵️
jenniferdonogh
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Cozy cozy onboard Coco Mar for Christmas 🎄⛵️
2 months ago
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5/6
Four course meal while on a mooring buoy after a day of sailing ✔️ back in February I had planned a fun night of Beauty and the Beast for Valentine’s Day. As it turns out the wind was good that day — so we sailed all day long. For fun, we stopped on the mooring buoy off Fort Worden on our way back. So, our fun night still went on thanks to our sailboat being our home 🤣

I put the video of our sail up on YouTube with the last amount of editing I’m comfortable doing. It was my favorite day of sailing. Port Townsend wind was unforgiving, but when it was good, it was the best!! 

#familyfun #movienight #beautyandthebeast
jenniferdonogh
jenniferdonogh
•
Follow
Four course meal while on a mooring buoy after a day of sailing ✔️ back in February I had planned a fun night of Beauty and the Beast for Valentine’s Day. As it turns out the wind was good that day — so we sailed all day long. For fun, we stopped on the mooring buoy off Fort Worden on our way back. So, our fun night still went on thanks to our sailboat being our home 🤣 I put the video of our sail up on YouTube with the last amount of editing I’m comfortable doing. It was my favorite day of sailing. Port Townsend wind was unforgiving, but when it was good, it was the best!! #familyfun #movienight #beautyandthebeast
2 months ago
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6/6

Jennifer Donogh 2022 Video Editing .