Greetings - New to Forum. Hailing From Portland Oregon

[SV Sweet Dreams]

Hello all! I'm new to sailing and am currently planning my first Pacific Coast Sail from Astoria to the Olympic Peninsula. That will be my shakedown cruise prior to sailing from there to Mexico, and then from Mexico to Hawaii.

Looking forward to meeting new people!

[MichGoBlue]

Best of luck! Be mindful of the Columbia Bar!

[SV Sweet Dreams]

Yes, thanks for the warning. I think I'm going to hire a Captain to get me across the Bar.

[JPA Cate]

I know the Columbia R. bar has a frightful reputation, but looking at the chart, there's a deep water channel clear to Portland.

So, here's my question. If one leaves Portland in the last hr. of the flood, could one not just follow the well marked channel clear on out, so long as one's speed would let one arrive at the actual bar area at least 1/2 way through the ebb, on a low wind or offshore wind day? I would think, with binoculars to see the back leads it would not be too difficult.

Comments?

Ann

[OloteleMtn]

It is a long way from Portland to the mouth of the Columbia; probably a day's sail/motor at least. The bar is most dangerous when there is a significant ocean swell against the river current.

[JPA Cate]

So, if it's too far, why could one not anchor behind Sand Is. and wait through the tide cycle?......assuming settled weather, of course.

It is well marked, according to my chart, and a deep water channel.

[roverhi]

As long as there are no large seas/storm there shouldn’t be a problem with the bar on an ebb tide. Take your time and don’t tempt fate if conditions are not good hang out.

[MichGoBlue]

It’s been decades since I crossed the Columbia bar, and those times were on Coast Guard cutters with sufficient power to maintain steerage even in sone nasty conditions. I do recall a Coast Guard buoy tender going out and getting slammed by the ocean swell and being caught going out abeam to the swell because they lost power. Very scary as she nearly went over.

With a sailboat with relatively minimal horsepower you have to be very careful of the tide at the actual time you cross the bar, in addition to the swells right outside. You don’t have a lot of room for error. I don’t know the rules or conditions for anchoring just inside the bar. Seems like there is plenty of room though. Also be mindful of bridges you might have to wait for depending on where you are at.

[Jaeden019]

Welcome S/V Sweet Dreams!

I hope your bar crossing is uneventful and enjoy your sail.

[Capt Phil]

Been across the ‘bar’ several times in pleasure and commercial vessels. It’s never fun and you must be very cognizant of both tides, sea conditions and winds. On the southern heading, I’d stay out at least 40 nm. Also beware of sneaker waves coming from offshore. While they don’t occur often, they are frequent enough to ruin a great day!
As a professional skipper, I would avoid the area if possible but be prepared for things to go caddywampus at any time.
Have a great trip!
Capt Phil ret.
Sure nice to type ret. after my name!