We had another great cruise the last summer, (2002). Neis kah had the pleasure of escorting a family of five for a couple of days: two teens, Jenny 16 yrs , James 13 yrs, their Parents and their Aunt. To add a small challenge to the outing, only the teens spoke English.
They arrived at the marina anxious to depart Friday but this was delayed due to severe weather warnings, (even though the skies were clear, almost). Well, our guests accepted our explanation of the delay even though they were obviously disappointed. We tried our best to entertain them by taking them to various sights in the Midland area: Martyr's Shrine, The Wye Marsh then back to the boat for a steak supper. We showed them around beautiful Doral Marina while the teens paddled the dinghy around for a bit. Finally we went inside, watched a movie then off to sleep, anxious for our departure the following morning. We all rose bright and early, had breakfast, showered then loaded everyone so we could leave. Just one more minor problem-the engine wouldn't start! To make a long story short, between Heiko and the Doral marine mechanic, the minor problem was quickly solved and we were off and sailing.
Neis Kah was in for a treat, the aftermath of the storm; wind, wind, wind! Even though
Neis Kah liked stretching her wings in the 30knot winds it was a bit too sudden for our new Korean sailors. All retreated to the warmth and calmness below decks. We were heading to Beausoleil Island, heeling a nice 20 some degrees flying all working sails including a full main. Finally we arrived, "handed the sails" and approached the dock. Our new sailors, James and Jenny were quite instrumental in helping us tie up in an off shore wind. We were impressed with our teens!
As soon as we docked everyone took off to explore the beautiful island and Heiko and I stayed behind to prepare supper, (Barbecued trout with all the trimmings). Jenny asked if it would be okay if they brought out some Korean food as well. Of course! We enjoyed a feast of local trout and delicious Korean fare. We spent the evening enjoying Beausoleil Island, getting to know our guests and leaning about Korean culture. One would think the language difference would create a barrier but just the opposite. We enjoyed their company to the fullest.
Do you know that the teens have been in Canada for only a very short time and already they had a good grasp of the English language. They live with their Aunt in Toronto while their Parents are still residing in Korea. They are both accomplished in school. James who has just graduated from Grade eight has his second black belt in Tae Kwon Do, (Korean martial arts). Heiko and I were involved in Tae Kwon Do quite heavily before we left on the boat and really miss it! A great form of self defense. Actually, James is the one who really wanted this cruise as his Graduation present.
The next day the kids got a lot of practice working the rigging and sailing a schooner. Later when we returned to the marina, we presented them with their sailing certificates for being successful active crew on the schooner. We then exchanged addresses and e-mails and promised to stay in touch. A great experience for Heiko and me. We feel honoured to have gained a niece and a nephew out of this adventure. We also made good friends with their parents and their aunt. We have an invitation to visit them in Toronto for a Korean meal followed by some shopping at the Korean market. We have invited them back to sail with us again for an afternoon with a steak barbeque. We are looking forward to this!
Boots Adventure Tours
Doral Marine Resort
Georgian Bay National Park
Beausoleil Island
Martyr's Shrine
Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
Sainte Marie Among the Hurons
Southern Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce
Georgian Bay Tourism Consortium
And you thought we were done....
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