Day 72 Englishtown to North Sydney, Nova Scotia, then an overnight ferry to Argentia, Newfoundland

 24.7 miles, 1,640 ft ascent

This morning we slept in until 08:00 and then had a short ride with significant climbing to the  port to catch our ferry bound for Newfoundland.  Since Cape Breton is not flat anywhere, we rode up to excellent vantage points to look downward in order to photograph the coast below.

 

This red squirrel attempted to get into Eric's pack during breakfast this morning.  Cyclists were 10 feet away eating at a picnic table, but the little guy remained undeterred.  We were amused at his brazen attitude.

 

 

 

One of his family members or colleagues managed to chew its way into a bike pack of mine under cover of night.  First the bandit raccoons, now the thieving squirrels! 

 

 

 

We did not ride the Cabot Trail today, but the scenery remained grandiose and no one was disappointed in the vistas.

 

 

 

This view is from St. Anne's Overlook on Highway 105.   From lake level we climbed to get a high perspective for this photo.

 

 

 

There are many charming little harbors like this one filled with boats for both fishing and recreation along the coast .

 

 

 

 

Tidal currents interacting with a bridge pylon created this pattern of foam in the water.

 

 

 

 

Cyclists and our bikes were loaded on the Cycle Canada van for the 426 km ferry ride from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland.  Simon (Ace) and Roger are shown here on top of the van loading bicycles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The ferry's name is My Atlantic Vision.  Stats:  203 m long, 25 m wide, 11 levels, 150 cabins, 200 reclining seats, 700 person capacity, 600 lifeboat capacity (Hmmmm, why not 700?)  The route is 322 miles, and will require 16.5 hours to complete at an average speed of 20 mph.

 

 

 

Our cabin for 4 with 2 bunks and a washroom with shower.  Nicer than a tent and no bandit raccoons, thieving squirrels, or voracious mosquitos!

 Buffet dinner on Tour du Canada.  I will choose Atlantic cod.

After sailing for about 16 hours tonight, we will all be excited to arrive tomorrow morning in Newfoundland.  During the two days of riding there, we still hope to find the ever elusive bull moose.  (The only moose we have seen have been cows, despite many warning signs alerting us to the presence of bull moose in various locations.)  In addition, we look forward to taking part in the screech-in ceremony by which we become honorary Newfoundlanders.  

 

The day after the tour ends, I aspire to riding to Cape Spear, south of St. John's, and the easternmost point in North America.   You are invited to join me on my odyssey!