A Year to Remember
Almost year ago today, I had just come back from the Inside Passage. I learned a lot about myself and life. Staring at the strange scenes of masked humans in front of my house today, I can’t help but feel lucky to have been…
Second Growth Wilderness on the Columbia
From the August 2020 issue of 48° North Shantyboat legend, Harlan Hubbard, once wrote of yearning to settle down in "some backcountry beyond the road's end, long ago abandoned or passed over by the expanding world, a…
Solstice 2020 on the Columbia River
Inspired by the memory of ideal conditions, I summoned the members of the Portland Sail & Oar League for a summer solstice messabout on the Columbia River. “I’m itching to get out on the river and enjoy the longest day…
Photo Essay: On the Water Under Covid
Editor's Note: The article below characterizes one boater's choices and observations. It references the reality that some individuals are not complying with social distancing guidelines as closely as others. Both 48° North…
Secret Behind Portland’s Marine Graffiti
Graffiti found at Portland's loading docks is more than it appears The Lower Willamette River is known for its Superfund site and industrial loading docks. There is no natural shoreline, just huge vertical piers. It’s an…
Close to the Water: Where the Action Is
Large crossings in a small boat create a deeper appreciation for the simple beauty of shallow water and vibrant shorelines One of the reasons I love small boats is because they are so well suited for cruising in shallow…
Sailing with My Clan
From the April 2020 issue. I’m hardly the first to row or sail the Inside Passage in a small craft. Yet, during the first 100 miles of my journey south from Port McNeil, Row Bird was the sole open boat on the water. Pulling…
Rowing the Rapids of the Inside Passage
Heading south from the Broughtons on a small boat, the big rapids of the Inside Passage are calling If you haven't already read the first in Bruce's series on his Inside Passage small boat adventure, check it out here. Every…
Go North to Go South
48° North columnist Bruce Bateau has been sharing the story of his small boat voyage south from Port McNeil, BC to Anacortes. This story appeared in the February issue of the magazine, and you can see his next web exclusive…
Saving Lakebay Marina for Everyone
Murkiness surrounding the fate of South Puget Sound's Lakebay Marina is beginning to look a bit more clear The first time I tied up at the Lakebay Marina, a shaggy-looking guy tried to sell me a used motorboat. Then I nearly…