Before leaving for Desolation Sound the galley is stocked with an optimistic combination of ingredients {I’m eternally optimistic that Captain Splendid will keep our larder stocked with plenty of fresh seafood that I can coerce into tasty meals}. Of course, a few back up items are always stowed in the freezer, just in case.
When the pantry starts looking sparse, there are a couple of places boaters can go to stock up. The Squirrel Cove Trading Company is a choice place to find most of what you need. An added inspiration is the deck at The Cove Restaurant, where the friendly staff serves inspired lunches and dinners overlooking the beach.
But we didn’t expect to find any fun fashions there, because there are no “boutiques” per se at Squirrel Cove.
And there were no boxes marked Trina Turk, Ralph Lauren or Anick Batik sliding up or down the ramp
or on this barge of food, off to supply other parts of the island.
But we did find some fashionable frocks. Yes we did. Thankfully, local artisians have taken matters into their own hands and have stocked the Cortez Island gift shop with some stylish items one can curate to spice up ones cruising wardrobe mid way.
This delightful little bag made of butter soft elk hide and decorated with a bear fetish, bear tooth coral and turquoise beads by local artist Doug Weyler.
It’s just big enough to carry my phone, lip gloss and sunglasses to shore on my paddle board.
.jpg)
and this hippie~chic crochet skirt by Susana Vijaya gives just enough coverage and warmth for a trip out to check the prawn traps.
And then theres that hat.
This creative island girl weaves gathered cattails and tule to make these perfect hats, sort a blend between a pith helmet and a sunhat, guaranteed not to cause “hat-head” {my guarantee, or rather, finding, not hers.} This photo is from her card, the company is called Happy Hatter Hats, and her email is edgeswamp@gmail.com.
The Cortes Craft Shop is open from 10-5 everyday of the week during the summer and is staffed by the artists and craftspeople. From September 7~19 it is open from Noon ~ 4.
The bag and the crocheted skirt are beautiful and how nice it is to be supporting local artisans.
Captain Splendid is fortunate to have such a fashionable (and fit!) Galley Wench aboard.
I'm taking notes, as one day our boating friends may agree to get off the Roche Harbor dock and away from the restaurants. Gathering from the sea is how I grew up and My Mister is a master griller. We are proving ourselves worthy by suppling gourmet snacks and strong cocktails… baby steps.
Cheers!
I am seriously dying for the skirt!! SO unique!
Have fun, Emily.
Teresa
xoxo
Dear Emily,
You have to be the most fashionable 1st mate ever. I love your new, hat, skit and bag! Perfect!
Xoxo
Karena
Feature: Designer Barry Dixon