Greg loves rock music, and there is a sound system on board the yacht. So, at 1.30pm, we sail into Valdez harbor to the deafening beat of Megadeth. The Ruffinit glides to its reserved mooring and the engine stops.
We have arrived.
I will sleep on the boat tonight, and intend to leave Valdez tomorrow. A day earlier than my original departure date. I will reach the location for my next hunt after three changes of planes, over 11/2 days: I wouldn't mind having an extra night in Denver. I call Jenn from on board, and ask her about my flights and hotel reservations.
Chapter VII.: Hard times in Alaska
Page 47
R. has left the ship. I was far away at the time, walking on the quay, so I couldn't say goodbye to him. With Randy and Bob I head for a slightly down-market hotel nearby, which has one redeeming feature: for $5.00 anyone can get a hot shower. They even provide shampoo, soap and towels. It is real bliss! After the tiny shower-room on the Ruffinit, it feels wonderful to stand under this jet of water, with it streaming down on to me.
In the afternoon we go and have hamburgers at the Totem Inn. I manage to buy some beer, though only after a little difficulty, as I've left my passport on the ship. The boys take their clothes to be washed at the local laundromat; I have enough clean clothes left for the moment.
In the evening I sadly pack my bags.
The Ruffinit is silent: for it, this year's hunting season is over. Now, our electricity is coming via a thick cable, so there's no need for the generator to rumble away. Tomorrow, many, many miles from here, I shall be sleeping in a proper bed. It is bound to be warm there, and, if it rains, I will be able to watch it from my hotel window. I hope there'll be a jacuzzi there. If there is, I shall sink into it and reminisce nostalgically about the Goat Hunt Spike Camp, the climbs in the rain, that freezing night, and my small cabin on the Ruffinit.
Alaska…
Room 1130
Hilton Garden Inn
Downtown Denver
Colorado
USA