ok. makes sense.
This paper :
ftp://ftp.wmo.int/Documents/PublicW...-TR-34-9th-waves-workshop/Papers/Stronach.pdf
says : The highest and steepest waves in the Strait of Georgia occur where strong currents oppose waves generated by gale force winds over long fetches. One such rip occurs seaward of Steveston Jetty and North Arm Jetty of the Fraser River during west to northwest gales. Extremely dangerous rips are created during the summer freshet or near low tide when currents of the river can reach 2.5 m/s in the main channel. Near the river mouth, shoaling further amplifies wave heights, creating rougher conditions than in adjacent waters. Numerous boats have capsized and occupants drowned when attempting to enter the river during a northwest wind (Thompson, 1981).
From the sat model it would seem (in order or best to worst exits)
1. next to river road / YVR / swishwash island
2. westham island / river road north from the the ferry terminal
3. steveston harbor next to shady island (pretty bad)
4. wreck beach/ ubc up north from YVR (looks terrible)
and it would seem the best would be to go would be to avoid the plume completely and do the run to nanaimo direct and go down. going from white rock does cut across the same strength of the plume as does the ferry route.
also alternative boat - 20 footer @ 700lbs :
http://www.oldwharf.com/ow_simmons.html - only problem is its made of wood which may rot etc.
ok maybe not - guy wanted $30k for the hull and knew less than me about its specs lol.