On to the SOO

On Aug.3, we headed for Sault Ste Marie, MI, or as locals say the SOO.  Our friends from Austin, Tim and Francie, flew in and joined us for a week as we traveled to Mackinaw City, Michigan.  We cleared customs at George Kemp Marina, Sault Ste Marie, MI.

Large ships here

Also, U. S. Coast Guard

Ready to go!

On our way to first anchorage - smooth water and beautiful homes on the North Channel of Lake Huron.  

Catching a few rays!

First night we anchored at appropriately named Picture Island, Ontario.

The next night we anchored at Milford Haven, Ontario.  

Deck hands Tim and King bringing in the anchor.

Overnight stop at DeTour Village Marina, quiet and small community with friendly locals.  Dinner at a nearby restaurant.  

Sign on side of building "snow-mobile parking".

DeTour Village to Machinaw City on a beautiful smooth water day.

A few miles south of DeTour Village is the DeTour Reef Lighthouse.  The lighthouse offers a unique opportunity to experience life as a lighthouse keeper on a 1931 offshore historic lighthouse.  There is a volunteer lighthouse keeper program, where the keepers will be in residence at the lighthouse Friday through late Sunday, performing cleaning, light maintenance and tours.  About 20 Great Lakes freighters plus many more pleasure craft pass close by the lighthouse every day.  

We like this water - en route to Machinaw City.  See the bridge through the haze, a picture perfect day.