Victoria

We finally got Viking Star to Victoria! We have been here on two sailboat charters previously, and promised to bring Viking Star here 'someday'. Thank you to Brian and Jean who invited us to share their time-share condo with us for the week.

I had been nervous about getting there -- the last time we crossed Haro Strait it WAS a harrowing experience, for me, anyway. The waves got big (but not as big as we thought they should for a 50 mph gale) and I had stitches from a carpal tunnel surgery, so I could not hold on. I rode it out below on the bunk with my feet on the wall.

THIS TIME, we watched the weather carefully and had a back-up plan of the Friday Harbor to Sidney ferry. But I don't think we could have asked for a better crossing! Smooth water and the tide was with us -- we reached 10.7 knots! (We normally cruise about 6)

At the entrance to Inner Harbor

 The first night we settled in with Jean and Brian, and grilled steaks and watched 'The Force Awakens'.  The next day we visited the Parliament building before Tea at the Empress.

From the first floor, to the landing on the second floor.  

The crest of British Columbia

There was so much beautiful stained glass -- too many pictures to post -- and also this mosaic.

The  members of Parliament were due to seat shortly.

The dome, from the second floor landing. There is a staircase 'in glass' to access the inside of the dome.

The ceremonial entrance, used for visiting Heads of State. Queen Elizabeth II came through here. 

Okay, ONE stained glass photo. This one commemorates Queen Elizabeth II's 60th year of reign, her Diamond Jubilee.

We had a wonderful tour guide. She lead a large group of us, she said the largest she's had so far. We lingered after the rest left and she shared a few more 'hidden' items, including the Queen's corgis in this painting.

Nearby outside, Brian took our photo in front of the crest of Canada.

A marmot on the front lawn of the Empress Hotel.

We strolled the waterfront, and I flirted with an old sailor. 

Wednesday was 'More Friends Day' as I had a hair appointment with Jord'n, and was surprised by Deneen bringing her mother for the appointment after me, along with Ilyssa and Irma.

Thursday we visited Craigdarroch Castle. It looks like it was built on a bare hilltop! There were lots of trees and other houses around it now.

A knitting basket!

A view from one of the tower windows -- downtown Victoria?

As always, the time to leave comes too soon. Here, we round the Trial Islands south of Victoria -- they feature in many a weather report. This day -- an excellent trip!