A Quiet Moment at Lacey Falls: Catherine and Douglas Ellis Aboard Their Kadey Krogen 44

Catherine and Douglas Ellis paused to take in a peaceful, memorable moment aboard their Kadey Krogen 44 at Lacey Falls in British Columbia. The falls were particularly striking after heavy rains had swept through the area the day before, swelling the streams and lending extra volume and drama to the cascading water. Photographs like this capture more than a scene; they preserve a feeling of calm, connection with nature, and the simple pleasure of being on the water.

Scenic Cruising in British Columbia

British Columbia’s coastal inlets and river mouths are known for sudden shifts in mood and scenery. Rain can transform a quiet brook into a roaring fall overnight, and the increased flow brings out the full character of places like Lacey Falls. For boaters, those moments present an opportunity to linger in an otherwise busy itinerary—to anchor or drift safely nearby and enjoy the sound and sight of falling water from the deck.

Onboard Life and Appreciation

Being aboard a well-traveled vessel offers a unique vantage point. From the cockpit or pilothouse, the Ellis family could watch the water tumble over rock ledges and observe how light and weather change the landscape. Those on-deck moments are part of why many cruisers choose life afloat: the ability to stop where the scenery compels you to, even if just for a short while.

Photography and Memory

Photos taken in settings like Lacey Falls do more than document a location; they record an experience. Light reflecting off wet rock, spray catching the sun, and the faces of people relaxed in the presence of nature all contribute to an image that feels lived-in. Good travel photographs often come from unplanned pauses—when boaters decide to sit still and truly take in where they are.

Why Rainy Days Can Be Best for Nature

Heavy rain can deter some visitors, but for those who continue on, it reveals different aspects of the environment. Waterfalls become more dynamic, river currents intensify, and surrounding vegetation often looks richer and more saturated. For the Ellis family, the recent rainfall emphasized the power and beauty of Lacey Falls, making their stop even more memorable.

Respect for the Environment

Stopping to enjoy a natural feature from a boat also comes with responsibilities. Respecting local regulations, keeping a safe distance from fragile shorelines, and minimizing disturbance to wildlife are all part of responsible cruising. Small choices—like anchoring in an approved area, reducing engine noise while at rest, and keeping the deck clean—help preserve the places that make these journeys special.

Shared Moments That Last

Beyond the technicalities of seamanship or navigation, the heart of cruising is in these quiet shared moments. Whether two people are enjoying a short respite or a family is marking another day of travel, scenes like the one at Lacey Falls are reminders of why many choose a life that follows the water. The photograph of Catherine and Douglas Ellis aboard their Kadey Krogen 44 is a simple, elegant example of how a boat can be both transport and vantage point—a way to access experiences that remain with you long after the anchors come up.

This article was originally published in the June 2022 issue.