Sea Bathing in a Windstorm

Gliding to Lummi Island on glassy water is sublime, especially if you happen to be parked at the front of the ferry with an unobstructed view. Not so much during a winter storm...

The Whatcom Chief in 60 mph wind on February 5, 2016. Photo credit Edmond Lowe

The Whatcom Chief in 60 mph wind on February 5, 2016. Photo credit Edmond Lowe

It takes a serious combination of wind, tide, and current to halt ferry service. The open deck and pounding sea spray makes the ride an exhilaratingif not corrosiveexperience for vehicle passengers. Even if the trusty Whatcom Chief is up to the task, the spelling of "Hale Passage" is open to interpretation at these times. 

Nancy Simmerman provides video commentary as the Chief rolls to the island in December 2006.