Happy Birthday MOM
Hope you enjoy your Big 80
Wow
Sorry we can't be there but have a blast anyway,
Love Ruth and Dick
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Best anchorage of the whole trip
We slept in until 7:30 am. Everyone had already left the anchorage we hauled the anchor and took off out on the Atlantic Ocean. The wind was about 15-20 kts on the nose and the waves were rolly and a bit choppy. We made it to Atlantic City about 2:30 pm (bucking the tide).
Cheryl and Dan had made it here just before us and Cheryl invited us to dinner onboard their (home) a Island Packet 32. They told us about the anchorage here at Atlantic city and I think it is the best one we have been at the whole trip. It was wonderful to get together with people and share the experiences we have had. We have pretty much been on our own since we left the gang we crossed the Gulf stream with in Cape Canaveral. I actually feel like I have been in exhile and that when we return just seeing people again that you can talk to and do things with is going to be a huge blessing.
Cheryl and Dan had made it here just before us and Cheryl invited us to dinner onboard their (home) a Island Packet 32. They told us about the anchorage here at Atlantic city and I think it is the best one we have been at the whole trip. It was wonderful to get together with people and share the experiences we have had. We have pretty much been on our own since we left the gang we crossed the Gulf stream with in Cape Canaveral. I actually feel like I have been in exhile and that when we return just seeing people again that you can talk to and do things with is going to be a huge blessing.
Layover Day in Cape May
Wednesday April 29, 2009
We woke up to a cold front and took our time leaving the marina. The winds were about 35 knots in the morning. When I took the key up to the desk and asked what time we had to be out of our slip the Lady at Utch's said no worries today (due to the weather). We were tempted to stay but knew of an anchorage just up the way and decided to save the $66.00. We made it out to the anchorage and Cheryl and Dan were there. She is the one that told us about taking the coast up to Atlantic City as there is a nice anchorage there. We were tossed and churned around all day on the hook and the wind died down a bit in the evening. I spent the day working on my quilt and reading. It was to rough to dinghy anywhere with oars. Around 4:00 am Dick asked me to get up and watch that when the current shifted we did not get tangled up with a Beneteau we were to close to. Around 5:40 am I notice he had a red light on his bow and was moving our way. Thankfully he was leaving the anchorage and so I could go back to bed and sleep.
We woke up to a cold front and took our time leaving the marina. The winds were about 35 knots in the morning. When I took the key up to the desk and asked what time we had to be out of our slip the Lady at Utch's said no worries today (due to the weather). We were tempted to stay but knew of an anchorage just up the way and decided to save the $66.00. We made it out to the anchorage and Cheryl and Dan were there. She is the one that told us about taking the coast up to Atlantic City as there is a nice anchorage there. We were tossed and churned around all day on the hook and the wind died down a bit in the evening. I spent the day working on my quilt and reading. It was to rough to dinghy anywhere with oars. Around 4:00 am Dick asked me to get up and watch that when the current shifted we did not get tangled up with a Beneteau we were to close to. Around 5:40 am I notice he had a red light on his bow and was moving our way. Thankfully he was leaving the anchorage and so I could go back to bed and sleep.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Dear Elyssa
Hi Elyssa,
Nana and Poppa are back in Cape May and everywhere I go I think about when you were here last fall. Miss you.
Love Nana and Poppa
Nana and Poppa are back in Cape May and everywhere I go I think about when you were here last fall. Miss you.
Love Nana and Poppa
Moving to Chesapeake City
Sunday April 26, 2009
This passage was a steamer. On land temperatures were in the 90's but out on the bay it was cooler but not enough wind to sail. We steamed along under power drinking in the beauty. Summer had arrived on a week-end before our eyes there were thousands of boaters out enjoying the day. We stopped for fuel at Shaeffer's across from the basin where we anchor in Chesapeake City. The depth sounder was clicking off 4's so I don't recommend coming in here at low tide. The basin is deeper once you get by the Inn/Marina. There were thousands of power boats in town and the shops were a bee hive of activity. We had our first ice cream cone in a long time. After we ding hied back from town we saw a boat in the anchorage that we had see going under the bridge at Annapolis. We ding hied over to say hi and they invited us aboard. The boats name is Curieuse and Dan and Cheryl have been living aboard for two years. They go back to Long Island for summer and go down two the Bahama or Keyes in the winter. As we were heading over to their boat the prop on our out board fell off. :) No worries this is the first place we actually used it so for now we will be using the oars.
There is a free dock at Chesapeake City which you can use for 24 hours so in the morning we will move over there. Dick wants to leave here and do the C & D Canal at night so we will leave just before high tide which is midnight. We would rather get to Cape May in day light as we have already done the Canal part at night on our way up. After all the travel and touring I was exhausted. I hit the cushions and was out like a light.
Monday April 27, 2009
Chesapeake City – I love it here!
We got to sleep in today. Dan woke us up at 8:30 am to tell us they went aground going to the dock. We decided to wait until higher tide. We moved over around 10:00 am and Dick did some engine maintenance stuff. Cheryl and Dan came by and invited us to go up town with them and grab some lunch. It is so hot. The temperature is in the 90's. We spent the afternoon drinking Iced Green Tea on Cheryl and Dan's Island Packard. A young couple came in to the dock that Cheryl and Dan had meet. They have both had one year of college. The guy turns 21 this week. They are doing the dream, and heading back to Maine to finish their post secondary education. Dick and I finished up the chili I had made and tried to catch some zzz's before we head out at midnight for Cape May. We want to go with the current. We have done the canal at night so no worries but we would rather get to Cape May in daylight. When we set the alarm for midnight it was not hard to get up and get moving as I do this all the time.
Tuesday April 28, 2009
Mission accomplished . We made it to Utch's dock (Cape May, N.J.) for the night about 9:30 am. Dick had a snooze and I ran to the showers. Did some wifi and got caught up with some errands. In the afternoon we went down to the Historical part of the City. We really enjoyed the day to relax and walk around. Picked up some groceries and retired to the Cable TV. There is a cold front coming in tomorrow so we are going to anchor here for the night tomorrow .
This passage was a steamer. On land temperatures were in the 90's but out on the bay it was cooler but not enough wind to sail. We steamed along under power drinking in the beauty. Summer had arrived on a week-end before our eyes there were thousands of boaters out enjoying the day. We stopped for fuel at Shaeffer's across from the basin where we anchor in Chesapeake City. The depth sounder was clicking off 4's so I don't recommend coming in here at low tide. The basin is deeper once you get by the Inn/Marina. There were thousands of power boats in town and the shops were a bee hive of activity. We had our first ice cream cone in a long time. After we ding hied back from town we saw a boat in the anchorage that we had see going under the bridge at Annapolis. We ding hied over to say hi and they invited us aboard. The boats name is Curieuse and Dan and Cheryl have been living aboard for two years. They go back to Long Island for summer and go down two the Bahama or Keyes in the winter. As we were heading over to their boat the prop on our out board fell off. :) No worries this is the first place we actually used it so for now we will be using the oars.
There is a free dock at Chesapeake City which you can use for 24 hours so in the morning we will move over there. Dick wants to leave here and do the C & D Canal at night so we will leave just before high tide which is midnight. We would rather get to Cape May in day light as we have already done the Canal part at night on our way up. After all the travel and touring I was exhausted. I hit the cushions and was out like a light.
Monday April 27, 2009
Chesapeake City – I love it here!
We got to sleep in today. Dan woke us up at 8:30 am to tell us they went aground going to the dock. We decided to wait until higher tide. We moved over around 10:00 am and Dick did some engine maintenance stuff. Cheryl and Dan came by and invited us to go up town with them and grab some lunch. It is so hot. The temperature is in the 90's. We spent the afternoon drinking Iced Green Tea on Cheryl and Dan's Island Packard. A young couple came in to the dock that Cheryl and Dan had meet. They have both had one year of college. The guy turns 21 this week. They are doing the dream, and heading back to Maine to finish their post secondary education. Dick and I finished up the chili I had made and tried to catch some zzz's before we head out at midnight for Cape May. We want to go with the current. We have done the canal at night so no worries but we would rather get to Cape May in daylight. When we set the alarm for midnight it was not hard to get up and get moving as I do this all the time.
Tuesday April 28, 2009
Mission accomplished . We made it to Utch's dock (Cape May, N.J.) for the night about 9:30 am. Dick had a snooze and I ran to the showers. Did some wifi and got caught up with some errands. In the afternoon we went down to the Historical part of the City. We really enjoyed the day to relax and walk around. Picked up some groceries and retired to the Cable TV. There is a cold front coming in tomorrow so we are going to anchor here for the night tomorrow .
Saturday, April 25, 2009
The Nood Regatta is in Annapolis
Saturday April 25, 2009
We headed out early as our early morning sleep was disturbed with about a thousand sport fisherman leaving Solomon's to fish. We made it to Annapolis in the early afternoon and had to sail through about 5 different race courses. When we got in and anchored in Back Creek we realized that the Noods Regatta was on. The place was a behive of activity. We made it down to Fawcett's to buy some sailing things. Forturnately we had some time to check out the stores before they closed. We picked up some take out chicken and came back to eat on the boat in the warm and soothing sun. It feels like summer and everywhere the trees are full of blossoms and buds. The fragrances are intoxicating.
Our next plan is to head up to Chesapeake City and then head down the Delaware. Monday and Tuesday the weather is suppose to be milder but by wednesday there may be some cold fronts move in. We will continue to play it by grace.
We headed out early as our early morning sleep was disturbed with about a thousand sport fisherman leaving Solomon's to fish. We made it to Annapolis in the early afternoon and had to sail through about 5 different race courses. When we got in and anchored in Back Creek we realized that the Noods Regatta was on. The place was a behive of activity. We made it down to Fawcett's to buy some sailing things. Forturnately we had some time to check out the stores before they closed. We picked up some take out chicken and came back to eat on the boat in the warm and soothing sun. It feels like summer and everywhere the trees are full of blossoms and buds. The fragrances are intoxicating.
Our next plan is to head up to Chesapeake City and then head down the Delaware. Monday and Tuesday the weather is suppose to be milder but by wednesday there may be some cold fronts move in. We will continue to play it by grace.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Two days for the price of One
Today was over the top. We left Hampton and headed out on a following sea and enough wind to sail at 6 knots. We shook the cobwebs out of the Main sail and hoisted it up for the first time since we left Marsh Harbour in the Abacos. Dick asked me if I remembered the last time we used it on this trip and I said, " Lake Erie?" What a joy to shut off the engine and move forward with the tide, wind and waves all in unison. The experience is exhilarating and even thought it lasted a couple of hours in a day of about 14 I will always be grateful for this blessing. We had made it to Deltaville area by early afternoon so decided to keep going on to Solomons. We had been there before and were confident that we would be able to find our way in in the dark.
We managed alright but Solomon's has about three creeks that come together and we ended up on Back Creek which is not what we intended. :0)
Oh well we are just dropping anchor and heading out in the morning.
We parked off a marina and tried to avoid the mooring balls. Dick did an oil change and we turned in about 11:00 pm. Wonderful day.
We managed alright but Solomon's has about three creeks that come together and we ended up on Back Creek which is not what we intended. :0)
Oh well we are just dropping anchor and heading out in the morning.
We parked off a marina and tried to avoid the mooring balls. Dick did an oil change and we turned in about 11:00 pm. Wonderful day.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Back to the Chesapeake
We left the Free Dock about an hour after we expected as the bolt broke again and was waiting for the early morning engine inspection. Dick had bought a steel bolt instead of stainless steel so he could not drill it. Anyway we left with it ................ the way it is.
There are about 6 bridges, a lock and some railway bridges to go through so by the time we got through all those it was 12:00 pm. We needed to stop for diesel, pump out and fresh water. We stopped at the Bluewater Marina and then when we tried to anchor we realized they had moved the ICW markers and there is no 6 foot water available now. We came to the Hampton Pier docks and decided to stay for the night. That left the afternoon to sight see. When we got out of the dockmasters office the Thunderbirds flew over. They are practising for the air show on the week-end April 24-26, 2009. When we went for a tour we found a Thunderbird parked by the Virginia Air and Space Centre. The washrooms are in the Jacques Cousteau Society building.
With the US Boat Tow membership it is $1.25 per foot and included free wifi. :) We have a warm forecast and we are happy to be heading out on the Chesapeake tomorrow.
There are about 6 bridges, a lock and some railway bridges to go through so by the time we got through all those it was 12:00 pm. We needed to stop for diesel, pump out and fresh water. We stopped at the Bluewater Marina and then when we tried to anchor we realized they had moved the ICW markers and there is no 6 foot water available now. We came to the Hampton Pier docks and decided to stay for the night. That left the afternoon to sight see. When we got out of the dockmasters office the Thunderbirds flew over. They are practising for the air show on the week-end April 24-26, 2009. When we went for a tour we found a Thunderbird parked by the Virginia Air and Space Centre. The washrooms are in the Jacques Cousteau Society building.
With the US Boat Tow membership it is $1.25 per foot and included free wifi. :) We have a warm forecast and we are happy to be heading out on the Chesapeake tomorrow.
Moving North
Monday April 20, 2009
Layover day in Belhaven
In the morning we headed into town to do our Laundry. The laundromat is still there. We had a visit with the lady that owns it. She tells me they have this one, a car wash and two other Laundromats in Washington (county). She eyed us up as boaters and when I said how did you know shes said “you have those silly bags, your talk sounds different and you talk to everyone and people round here do not do that.” The Cafe is gone and the Hairdressing Salon is under new management. I asked her if the woman that ran the Cafe had another location and she said no. Our kindly informant is an older lady and had not been well lately but she was home sick and got so depressed her doctor told her to go back to work. She loves to sit in the laundromat and talk about the Lord. I might still be there talking to her but my husband showed up and the weather is picking up and we need to get back to the boat before the waves get any higher. We were anchored for that day and you would swear we were out for a sail in rough seas the whole day. At times all you could do on board was lay down and read. The day was long and frustrating but it was better than being outside in the thunderstorms and high winds. We need to get water and diesel but the River Forest Marina has not up to speed yet. The part to fix the pump on the diesel did not come today and they did not repair the broken pipe from the pump out. Dick ran into the dock master at the Ace Hardware where he picked up a small radio for us. Our on board one quit working after all the torrential rain we had in Savannah and I was missing having the news and tunes.
Tuesday April 21, 2009
Onto Buck Island, North River, North Carolina
We had decided to make up some time as we had a gorgeous day to move, we were up early and avoided waiting for the local marina to open to get some fuel. We had traveled to the Alligator River Marina and it was still early and we had a following sea and so we decided to get across the Ablemarle Sound. The marina is just after the Alligator River Bridge and if you go keep the green on the port when you head in. The marina is clean and pristine and first class service from a “Country Singer” type guy. The southern accent only adds to his charm. The docks if you decided to stay are only $1.00 per foot. If it had not been such a great day to travel we would have stayed.
It made about 71 statutory miles then we land our craft north of Buck Island for the night. We had picked up about a million flies, all different species. The insects can sure ruin a seasonal day in the 70's.
I could not wait to tie up and get the kettle on for a cup of tea. When I went to get some water for the kettle we had no water. All (40 gallons) had vanished. This is not the first time this has happened to us. We carry bottled water but it always seems to happen when you are stuck out in the boonies. We had dinner and retired early for the trip tomorrow.
Wednesday April 23, 2009
Free Dock between Bridge and Lock, Norfolk, Virginia
Wooho we made it to Virginia. We had two thunderstorms to go through and the wind was on the increase when we came through the Great Bridge Bridge south Norfolk so we decided to stay at the free dock. It offers some stores and fast food joints. There is no wifi but the Veteran's Association gave us water to fill our empty gerri cans. Dick picked up some groceries and managed to make it back to the boat before the heavens opened for the tenth time today and we had another down pour. Things cleared up later and we put the dinghy up on the deck and took off to buy some dinner. We made it over to the mall area and all the stores were closing. I managed to slip into the Hancock Fabric Store and pick up a quilter's pencil to mark dark fabric. Just a little something I thought I would have to wait until I got back to Canada to get when I have a car.
Layover day in Belhaven
In the morning we headed into town to do our Laundry. The laundromat is still there. We had a visit with the lady that owns it. She tells me they have this one, a car wash and two other Laundromats in Washington (county). She eyed us up as boaters and when I said how did you know shes said “you have those silly bags, your talk sounds different and you talk to everyone and people round here do not do that.” The Cafe is gone and the Hairdressing Salon is under new management. I asked her if the woman that ran the Cafe had another location and she said no. Our kindly informant is an older lady and had not been well lately but she was home sick and got so depressed her doctor told her to go back to work. She loves to sit in the laundromat and talk about the Lord. I might still be there talking to her but my husband showed up and the weather is picking up and we need to get back to the boat before the waves get any higher. We were anchored for that day and you would swear we were out for a sail in rough seas the whole day. At times all you could do on board was lay down and read. The day was long and frustrating but it was better than being outside in the thunderstorms and high winds. We need to get water and diesel but the River Forest Marina has not up to speed yet. The part to fix the pump on the diesel did not come today and they did not repair the broken pipe from the pump out. Dick ran into the dock master at the Ace Hardware where he picked up a small radio for us. Our on board one quit working after all the torrential rain we had in Savannah and I was missing having the news and tunes.
Tuesday April 21, 2009
Onto Buck Island, North River, North Carolina
We had decided to make up some time as we had a gorgeous day to move, we were up early and avoided waiting for the local marina to open to get some fuel. We had traveled to the Alligator River Marina and it was still early and we had a following sea and so we decided to get across the Ablemarle Sound. The marina is just after the Alligator River Bridge and if you go keep the green on the port when you head in. The marina is clean and pristine and first class service from a “Country Singer” type guy. The southern accent only adds to his charm. The docks if you decided to stay are only $1.00 per foot. If it had not been such a great day to travel we would have stayed.
It made about 71 statutory miles then we land our craft north of Buck Island for the night. We had picked up about a million flies, all different species. The insects can sure ruin a seasonal day in the 70's.
I could not wait to tie up and get the kettle on for a cup of tea. When I went to get some water for the kettle we had no water. All (40 gallons) had vanished. This is not the first time this has happened to us. We carry bottled water but it always seems to happen when you are stuck out in the boonies. We had dinner and retired early for the trip tomorrow.
Wednesday April 23, 2009
Free Dock between Bridge and Lock, Norfolk, Virginia
Wooho we made it to Virginia. We had two thunderstorms to go through and the wind was on the increase when we came through the Great Bridge Bridge south Norfolk so we decided to stay at the free dock. It offers some stores and fast food joints. There is no wifi but the Veteran's Association gave us water to fill our empty gerri cans. Dick picked up some groceries and managed to make it back to the boat before the heavens opened for the tenth time today and we had another down pour. Things cleared up later and we put the dinghy up on the deck and took off to buy some dinner. We made it over to the mall area and all the stores were closing. I managed to slip into the Hancock Fabric Store and pick up a quilter's pencil to mark dark fabric. Just a little something I thought I would have to wait until I got back to Canada to get when I have a car.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Oriental Sailing Capital of North Carolina
Saturday April 18, 2009
We rose early and headed out to the make it to Oriental. This is a beautiful spring day and it it amazing how much better you feel when the sun is shining. It was a week-end and there were lots of families out with their boats. I secretly knew after having a whole winter of 'summer' that that feeling would be one we would have to wait for when next season arrives. When we arrived in Morehead City in the turning basin their were tons of sport fishermen I was thankful the Coast Guard were their and yelling at them not to anchor in the channel. They could keep moving and fish but not anchor their boat. I don't think this is always the case so we were glad they were there keeping the channel free for all the Canadian sailboats going home. We got into Oriental in time to head into town and pick up some groceries. There were not many boats in the anchorage so we stayed downtown. The grocery store is closer to Whittaker Creek Marina so if you are coming this way and you need groceries I recommend you stay on that side.
On our way to the grocery store (about a one mile walk) we stopped at the Sailor's Consignment store.
Captain managed to find himself a new folding prop for a bargain basement price. Oriental was hopping this day they had had a Tour of Homes and a Boat show and Farmers Market. We stopped by the docks downtown and ran into a couple and their son who we meet in the Chesapeake with an Alberg 30. (Peter and Heather this is for you). They were tanned and had spent the winter in Charleston. They were having their boat taken out at a yard in Oriental where they can update their through hull fittings. They are going to be able to live aboard while the repairs are being done. At first we could not place the guy but when his wife came back we remembered where we had meet them. Dick whipped up some yummy hamburgers on the barbecue. The villagers were having a barbecue (donation only) for the Sailing School but the wind had picked up and we did not want to dinghy ashore after carrying all the groceries and a new prop back to the boat.
Belhaven - Sunday April 19, 2009
North Carolina as I remember is so beautiful. The forests so tall and majestic. We are truly coming north and to see the evergreens again is such a thrill, I cannot describe. We had a following sea all day and could sail with the Genoa. So happy to see a smile on Skippers face for a change. The Neuse River,
Pamlico Sound and the Pungo River is wide like a lake and it was nice to be out in the open again as we headed up the ICW. The weather was warm and overcast by the end of the day. We stopped at the River Forest Marina but their diesel pump is out of order and there is a leak in the hoses under the pump out so they told us we would have to wait until tomorrow. We bought showers $5.00 each off them and headed over to the anchorage. We are the only boat here. It is so quiet. We have many fond memories of our time here in the fall. Thunderstorms are predicted for tomorrow so we have opted to stay until Tuesday. Tomorrow we will check out the Laundromat, the Cafe and the Hair Salon.
We rose early and headed out to the make it to Oriental. This is a beautiful spring day and it it amazing how much better you feel when the sun is shining. It was a week-end and there were lots of families out with their boats. I secretly knew after having a whole winter of 'summer' that that feeling would be one we would have to wait for when next season arrives. When we arrived in Morehead City in the turning basin their were tons of sport fishermen I was thankful the Coast Guard were their and yelling at them not to anchor in the channel. They could keep moving and fish but not anchor their boat. I don't think this is always the case so we were glad they were there keeping the channel free for all the Canadian sailboats going home. We got into Oriental in time to head into town and pick up some groceries. There were not many boats in the anchorage so we stayed downtown. The grocery store is closer to Whittaker Creek Marina so if you are coming this way and you need groceries I recommend you stay on that side.
On our way to the grocery store (about a one mile walk) we stopped at the Sailor's Consignment store.
Captain managed to find himself a new folding prop for a bargain basement price. Oriental was hopping this day they had had a Tour of Homes and a Boat show and Farmers Market. We stopped by the docks downtown and ran into a couple and their son who we meet in the Chesapeake with an Alberg 30. (Peter and Heather this is for you). They were tanned and had spent the winter in Charleston. They were having their boat taken out at a yard in Oriental where they can update their through hull fittings. They are going to be able to live aboard while the repairs are being done. At first we could not place the guy but when his wife came back we remembered where we had meet them. Dick whipped up some yummy hamburgers on the barbecue. The villagers were having a barbecue (donation only) for the Sailing School but the wind had picked up and we did not want to dinghy ashore after carrying all the groceries and a new prop back to the boat.
Belhaven - Sunday April 19, 2009
North Carolina as I remember is so beautiful. The forests so tall and majestic. We are truly coming north and to see the evergreens again is such a thrill, I cannot describe. We had a following sea all day and could sail with the Genoa. So happy to see a smile on Skippers face for a change. The Neuse River,
Pamlico Sound and the Pungo River is wide like a lake and it was nice to be out in the open again as we headed up the ICW. The weather was warm and overcast by the end of the day. We stopped at the River Forest Marina but their diesel pump is out of order and there is a leak in the hoses under the pump out so they told us we would have to wait until tomorrow. We bought showers $5.00 each off them and headed over to the anchorage. We are the only boat here. It is so quiet. We have many fond memories of our time here in the fall. Thunderstorms are predicted for tomorrow so we have opted to stay until Tuesday. Tomorrow we will check out the Laundromat, the Cafe and the Hair Salon.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Long long day to Swansboro
We left the anchorage about 9:00 am and had to time our 1hour only opening bridges but that was impossible. The last bridge was like a comedy of errors. We were coming up to Onslow Beach Bridge and there were large NO ANCHORING SIGNS all over the shore as it was Camp Le Jeune property and Dick stopped steering for a minute to discover our alternator bolt was broken again. The lady from the bridge came on the radio and said "Sailboat northbound, we are going to remain closed as there is a medical emergency on the beach. We cannot open until the medical vehicles come across, go to the emergency and then come back."
So this is my question of the day.
You cannot go forward, you cannot go sideways, and you really don't want to back up. The last anchorage is 4 miles back. A guy in a Beneteau 40 came by and Dick told him our situation and he said, its better than being at work, and the guys said he was at work. He was delivering the boat to New Jersey from Miami. We waited an hour and just kept the engine idling and carried on another 10 miles to Swansboro. Dick put it back together again and added a washer.
Tomorrow we are on to Oriental and we will have to go through Morehead City on a week-end.
So this is my question of the day.
You cannot go forward, you cannot go sideways, and you really don't want to back up. The last anchorage is 4 miles back. A guy in a Beneteau 40 came by and Dick told him our situation and he said, its better than being at work, and the guys said he was at work. He was delivering the boat to New Jersey from Miami. We waited an hour and just kept the engine idling and carried on another 10 miles to Swansboro. Dick put it back together again and added a washer.
Tomorrow we are on to Oriental and we will have to go through Morehead City on a week-end.
On to Wrightville Beach
Thursday April 16, 2009
We travelled to Wrightsville Beach today. Not a long trip but with head wind gusting to 30 knots at times it was long enough. We got in and anchored in a vacant anchorage except for about 2 other boats. When we were here in the fall there were 100's for boats in the two anchorage spots. We went into town and looked around. We did not see anyone older than 25 so that is where all the young people go I guess. We had a good laugh checking out the Wings store which was closed when we were here in the fall. We stopped at the Pizza place and I guess Dick's complaining about not getting a pop with the two slice pizza deal paid off because they were willing to let him do it this year.
We travelled to Wrightsville Beach today. Not a long trip but with head wind gusting to 30 knots at times it was long enough. We got in and anchored in a vacant anchorage except for about 2 other boats. When we were here in the fall there were 100's for boats in the two anchorage spots. We went into town and looked around. We did not see anyone older than 25 so that is where all the young people go I guess. We had a good laugh checking out the Wings store which was closed when we were here in the fall. We stopped at the Pizza place and I guess Dick's complaining about not getting a pop with the two slice pizza deal paid off because they were willing to let him do it this year.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Southport we missed our window of opportunity
Leaving Southport was scheduled for this morning about 9:00 am and we needed to be on a rising tide to make it up the Fear River to our destination at Wrightsville Beach. As sometimes happens when we start the engine water does not come out the exhaust so Dick had asked me to check it as I was walking down the dock. There was none coming out so he went below to check the exhaust and in a minute water came running out. I leaned into the companionway and Dick was holding a broken bolt that had snapped off in the alternator. Bye the time we had the repair done we were past the window to make it up the Fear River so we just stayed here for the day.
I took one of the quilt tops I had made and laid it up on the dinghy and then pinned it together to quilt. The nearest stores are two miles away and thankfully one of the boaters offered to pick up a new bolt at the hardware where he was going.
I took one of the quilt tops I had made and laid it up on the dinghy and then pinned it together to quilt. The nearest stores are two miles away and thankfully one of the boaters offered to pick up a new bolt at the hardware where he was going.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Layover day in Southport
After we got up and I went up to have a shower I stopped to thank the couple who had hailed us on the radio. We meet another couple from a boat called Edelweiss who had just returned to their home Port after being in the Exumas for the winter. They were so happy to be back and it was very touching to us. We headed out to check out the local stores and the thunderstorm struck so we tore back to the boat. This was a day on board and a good time to catch up on about three lost nights of sleep.
On to Southport North Carolina
Monday April 13, 2009
Josh , Grandpa Buist and Elyssa arrived in the morning to take us out for Pancakes. They had filled the car and dropped the woman off at the restaurant and came back to the Marina to get us. Elyssa went to Nana with no trouble. She is back to her adorable self. It was so wonderful to have them all share Easter with us and we really appreciate Karin's mom and dad coming and sharing all the good times with us. It was a long trip for all of them and Dick and I are forever thankful to them for making the effort.
Dick and I headed out on the ICW again. We are suppose to leave by 11:00 am to be with high tide to have the current with us but we were a bit behind on that. We ended up doing alot of the trip at low tide but we had made it through. The only place we went aground was right in the middle of the inlet at Sharlotte's Inlet. We recommend that you do not do this at low tide. We hopped to make it to St. James Plantation Marina but when we called to make a reservation no one was there to answer the call. I started hailing them on our VHF and a woman overheard me and recommended Southport Harbour Marina and she said the guy was going to stay late for them to get there. We gave them a call and they were kind enough to wait another half an our for us to come. We really appreciate things like this that happen along the way, The weather was gearing up for a not to sleep to soundly night so we were glad to be tied to a dock. We had surprisingly little sleep and the weather for tomorrow is to be thunderstorms and high winds so Dick decided to stay over another day.
Josh , Grandpa Buist and Elyssa arrived in the morning to take us out for Pancakes. They had filled the car and dropped the woman off at the restaurant and came back to the Marina to get us. Elyssa went to Nana with no trouble. She is back to her adorable self. It was so wonderful to have them all share Easter with us and we really appreciate Karin's mom and dad coming and sharing all the good times with us. It was a long trip for all of them and Dick and I are forever thankful to them for making the effort.
Dick and I headed out on the ICW again. We are suppose to leave by 11:00 am to be with high tide to have the current with us but we were a bit behind on that. We ended up doing alot of the trip at low tide but we had made it through. The only place we went aground was right in the middle of the inlet at Sharlotte's Inlet. We recommend that you do not do this at low tide. We hopped to make it to St. James Plantation Marina but when we called to make a reservation no one was there to answer the call. I started hailing them on our VHF and a woman overheard me and recommended Southport Harbour Marina and she said the guy was going to stay late for them to get there. We gave them a call and they were kind enough to wait another half an our for us to come. We really appreciate things like this that happen along the way, The weather was gearing up for a not to sleep to soundly night so we were glad to be tied to a dock. We had surprisingly little sleep and the weather for tomorrow is to be thunderstorms and high winds so Dick decided to stay over another day.
Easter Week-end in Myrtle Beach
Saturday April 11, 2009
We woke up Saturday morning and Ellie and Peter had arranged to play golf so we hung out at the marina and played with Elyssa. Dick did a little engine maintenance and discovered that he exhaust had a couple of hoses clamps that were leaking and he did a rebuild job on the oil leak. It remains to be seen if this will fix things but we do not want to spoil our wonderful week-end with family dealing with annoying issues like engines. Josh and Karin and Elyssa went out for lunch and Nana laid down for a nap. Ellie and Peter picked us up after their golf game and we went for a drive along the waterfront in Myrtle Beach to see all the sights. There is miles and miles of putt put golf and restaurants and adult nightlife clubs. We had a beautiful dinner at the condo and enjoyed an evening of visiting. Elyssa is still under the weather but there are glimpses of our dear little one that shine through even though she is feeling so ill.
Sunday April 12, 2009
Elyssa arrived with her shades on all dressed up for church. She was with Daddy and Grandpa Buist and is smiling and being her charming self. What a difference a day makes when you are fighting an infection.
We all headed out to a Presbyterian Church that friends of Peter and Ellie's had gone to last year when they were here and when we got there the people were just leaving. They had gone down to the Beach that day to do a Sunlight Service. Having missed the church boat we headed out to a Garden to enjoy creation. Ellie and Peter had decided to take us to a garden for the day. They punched in a search on their GPS and Brookgreen Garden National Historic Landmark came up. What a fantastic day. Brookgreen is 550 acres of Garden and sculptures from North Americas greatest sculptures. We spent the whole day. Your ticket includes 7 days and it would take that to see the whole place. They had a zoo at one end so we took the trolley to check out the animals for Elyssa. We came back to the condo and had a dinner of ham and scalloped potatoes. Elyssa loves to pray before every meal and she puts her hands together and bows her head. We had seen a sculpture in the Garden by Marshall Fredrick with Psalm 139: 9, 10 engraved on it
9 If I take the wings of the morning or dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
10 Even there shall Your hand lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.
So Ellie looked it up and read it to us. We had a sings song of Easter hymns. Karin's dad is a beautiful organist but he decided to lead the sing song via the Internet. I told him he wins the b logger commenter award and that qualified him to have his picture put on.
We woke up Saturday morning and Ellie and Peter had arranged to play golf so we hung out at the marina and played with Elyssa. Dick did a little engine maintenance and discovered that he exhaust had a couple of hoses clamps that were leaking and he did a rebuild job on the oil leak. It remains to be seen if this will fix things but we do not want to spoil our wonderful week-end with family dealing with annoying issues like engines. Josh and Karin and Elyssa went out for lunch and Nana laid down for a nap. Ellie and Peter picked us up after their golf game and we went for a drive along the waterfront in Myrtle Beach to see all the sights. There is miles and miles of putt put golf and restaurants and adult nightlife clubs. We had a beautiful dinner at the condo and enjoyed an evening of visiting. Elyssa is still under the weather but there are glimpses of our dear little one that shine through even though she is feeling so ill.
Sunday April 12, 2009
Elyssa arrived with her shades on all dressed up for church. She was with Daddy and Grandpa Buist and is smiling and being her charming self. What a difference a day makes when you are fighting an infection.
We all headed out to a Presbyterian Church that friends of Peter and Ellie's had gone to last year when they were here and when we got there the people were just leaving. They had gone down to the Beach that day to do a Sunlight Service. Having missed the church boat we headed out to a Garden to enjoy creation. Ellie and Peter had decided to take us to a garden for the day. They punched in a search on their GPS and Brookgreen Garden National Historic Landmark came up. What a fantastic day. Brookgreen is 550 acres of Garden and sculptures from North Americas greatest sculptures. We spent the whole day. Your ticket includes 7 days and it would take that to see the whole place. They had a zoo at one end so we took the trolley to check out the animals for Elyssa. We came back to the condo and had a dinner of ham and scalloped potatoes. Elyssa loves to pray before every meal and she puts her hands together and bows her head. We had seen a sculpture in the Garden by Marshall Fredrick with Psalm 139: 9, 10 engraved on it
9 If I take the wings of the morning or dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
10 Even there shall Your hand lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.
So Ellie looked it up and read it to us. We had a sings song of Easter hymns. Karin's dad is a beautiful organist but he decided to lead the sing song via the Internet. I told him he wins the b logger commenter award and that qualified him to have his picture put on.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Time with Family
Friday April 10, 2009
We got up and had some quality family time on board. Elyssa seems to love being on the boat and enjoys the water around the dock the waterfalls and the fountains. Her cold has set her back a bit and she is clinging to Mommy but we are so thankful to be able to see her and spend time with Josh and Karin. Peter and Ellie (Karin's parents) came by to pick us up and go grocery shopping. Having a vehicle to pick up supplies is a huge blessing. We went over to the condo at Ocean Creek after and had a walk on the beach in the afternoon. The temperature is around 76 degrees but the wind is strong. We took Elyssa to play on a playground and gathered at the condo for supper. We all came back to the boat to sleep but there was a thunderstorm in the night and no body slept very well. Poor Karin has missed about three nights of sleep with the baby being sick and she is getting exhausted. Tomorrow night they will try it at the condo.
We got up and had some quality family time on board. Elyssa seems to love being on the boat and enjoys the water around the dock the waterfalls and the fountains. Her cold has set her back a bit and she is clinging to Mommy but we are so thankful to be able to see her and spend time with Josh and Karin. Peter and Ellie (Karin's parents) came by to pick us up and go grocery shopping. Having a vehicle to pick up supplies is a huge blessing. We went over to the condo at Ocean Creek after and had a walk on the beach in the afternoon. The temperature is around 76 degrees but the wind is strong. We took Elyssa to play on a playground and gathered at the condo for supper. We all came back to the boat to sleep but there was a thunderstorm in the night and no body slept very well. Poor Karin has missed about three nights of sleep with the baby being sick and she is getting exhausted. Tomorrow night they will try it at the condo.
Heading to Myrtle Beach and the Grand Visit
Thursday April 9, 2009
Skipper Bob had recommended we head out on the high tide and ride the flow to Barefoot Landing Resort Yacht Club were we decided to stay for Easter week-end. The sun was out and it promises to be a nice day with 20 knot winds from the south. Dick asked me to check the engine part to see if there was oil leaking from it. Unfortunately there was a small leak and so the new part was not completely sealed. Not long after that the temperature gauge on the engine started to overheat so we were back with water issues. We had to keep stopping the engine on the ICW with a two knot current. That meant that we were able to keep going north but it was so frustrating as we wanted to get to Myrtle Beach to meet the family. We arrive at the Marina about an hour and a half later than we planned. We called the kids on the phone and they were about an hour behind on their eta. We arrived at the Barefoot Landing Resort Yacht Club and Bill had told us to take the middle Entrance and when we turned in we went hard aground on a ridge that has been building for about four years. He told us the deep water was to the right. Bye the time we got off the sand bar he told us to go to north entrance and he parked us in the slip beside the Sea Doo business. The owner of the business was not impressed so at the next high tide we were required to get out. The family arrive about 7:30 pm and we went to the Alabama Boys Pavilion to meet them. Elyssa had learned the sign for boat and was making it and smiling from ear to ear when she saw us.
I guess in her mind we are the Boat people. We had a dinner at Wild Wing Cafe and the kids came to sleep on the boat. Elyssa had a cold and was recovering from a fever and went to sleep for her parents and stayed there almost all through the night. I think she prefers staying on the boat as she gets to sleep with mommy and daddy instead of a crib at the condo.
Skipper Bob had recommended we head out on the high tide and ride the flow to Barefoot Landing Resort Yacht Club were we decided to stay for Easter week-end. The sun was out and it promises to be a nice day with 20 knot winds from the south. Dick asked me to check the engine part to see if there was oil leaking from it. Unfortunately there was a small leak and so the new part was not completely sealed. Not long after that the temperature gauge on the engine started to overheat so we were back with water issues. We had to keep stopping the engine on the ICW with a two knot current. That meant that we were able to keep going north but it was so frustrating as we wanted to get to Myrtle Beach to meet the family. We arrive at the Marina about an hour and a half later than we planned. We called the kids on the phone and they were about an hour behind on their eta. We arrived at the Barefoot Landing Resort Yacht Club and Bill had told us to take the middle Entrance and when we turned in we went hard aground on a ridge that has been building for about four years. He told us the deep water was to the right. Bye the time we got off the sand bar he told us to go to north entrance and he parked us in the slip beside the Sea Doo business. The owner of the business was not impressed so at the next high tide we were required to get out. The family arrive about 7:30 pm and we went to the Alabama Boys Pavilion to meet them. Elyssa had learned the sign for boat and was making it and smiling from ear to ear when she saw us.
I guess in her mind we are the Boat people. We had a dinner at Wild Wing Cafe and the kids came to sleep on the boat. Elyssa had a cold and was recovering from a fever and went to sleep for her parents and stayed there almost all through the night. I think she prefers staying on the boat as she gets to sleep with mommy and daddy instead of a crib at the condo.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Kirk and Tom (Two Southern Gentlemen)
If White Creek had been my wind miracle than Georgetown would have to be my Provision Miracle. These are the two fellows (Kirk and Tom) who were able to Mc Giver parts for the Alternator Bracket from scratch. They don't make Diesel Mechanics like these guys in school. They have the availability of all the equipment and they don't charge an arm and a leg. They did not have to take the front of the engine to fix it and for that we saved alot of money. Anyone behind if you need something done before you go home these are the guys to do it. The proprietor at the Boat Shed Marina has there contact info. Walking back from the restaurant on Monday night we were picked up by another gentleman who recognized us as boaters (carless) and he said they were the best people we could get for the job.
We have spent most of he past few day on board waiting for the wind to die down. Thursday we are heading out to Myrtle Beach. Grandbaby is on the way. If we leave here at high tide tomorrow we can ride the current all the way to Barefoot Landing.
Monday, April 6, 2009
On to Beaufort South Carolina
Friday April 3, 2009
We got up at 6:30 am to get ready to head out. There had been another thunderstorm in the night and we did not get much sleep. Trying to find the right bus stop in Savannah to head back to the marina and standing in the pouring rain for almost an hour had been exhausting. We decided to make a long day and that meant traveling at low and high tide. By the time we had refueled and got on our way it was 8:00 am
While Dick was up in the night he had gone up to the laundromat and meet a fellow from a boat called Toucan. They had decided to travel with us for the day. Dick told them that we had a private dock in Beaufort that we were going to check out and they said they would come along and anchor or go to a marina if it did not work out. When we got to Mynar and Gail's dock they were there and there was a dredger tied up to the dock. Mynar came down and offered to let us stay but there was only room for one of us. The other boat went up the creek and found a private dock that was selling condos and all they had to do was take a tour. The condos cost $799,000.00 so they did a pass and just stayed at the dock for free. When we were heading down the ICW the next day Gary radioed Dick to thank him for the free dock because if we had not told him about it he would have missed it. Mynar and Gail had some guests coming and so they invited us up for happy hour and we joined them for dinner at the new restaurant called Fugi's. It was excellent low priced Japanese food. Mynar said they had been wondering when the gang would be showing up again.
Saturday April 4, 2009
We want to make it to Charleston but don't want to stay at the Mega Dock
The mega dock only had 50 amp service and to find a splitter it would cost about 250.00 so we picked a lovely anchorage at Wappoo Creek. It is apparently very popular but fortunately there were only about three boats when we got there. We anchored next to some beautiful southern mansions. We got ahead of Toucan as they had stopped to walk their dogs. They arrived about a half an hour after we got to the anchorage. This day we had done about 66 miles and we did not even haul the dinghy off the boat to go to shore at the dinghy dock near the Wappoo Bridge. Dick opened the Bridge to check it and we appear to have some extra oil in it. Not sure where it is coming from. Dick spent about an hour cleaning it out. We had a quick bite to eat with provisions from on board and then headed to bed. Every muscle I own is exhausted. I almost need help to get to bed.
Sunday April 5, 2009
666 The Sign of the Engine Beast
Today we did another 66 miles. Add one more 6 and maybe we will understand what is going on. The engine seems to be leaking oil. Dick tried to change the oil filter and see if that was where it was leaking from. We pressed on and actually sailed by the anchorage (White Creek) where we had our Wind Miracle in the fall on the way down. Because of the engine diagnostics we did not get to Georgetown until about 6:30 pm. The weather report later this evening is a gale storm so we decided to take a dock at a Marina. The first marina we called did not have showers available so we declined that and headed to the Boat Shed Marina for the night. They are $1.40 per foot and after 3 days they only charge $25.00 for the dock. We may need to stay to get some work done on the engine.
We got up at 6:30 am to get ready to head out. There had been another thunderstorm in the night and we did not get much sleep. Trying to find the right bus stop in Savannah to head back to the marina and standing in the pouring rain for almost an hour had been exhausting. We decided to make a long day and that meant traveling at low and high tide. By the time we had refueled and got on our way it was 8:00 am
While Dick was up in the night he had gone up to the laundromat and meet a fellow from a boat called Toucan. They had decided to travel with us for the day. Dick told them that we had a private dock in Beaufort that we were going to check out and they said they would come along and anchor or go to a marina if it did not work out. When we got to Mynar and Gail's dock they were there and there was a dredger tied up to the dock. Mynar came down and offered to let us stay but there was only room for one of us. The other boat went up the creek and found a private dock that was selling condos and all they had to do was take a tour. The condos cost $799,000.00 so they did a pass and just stayed at the dock for free. When we were heading down the ICW the next day Gary radioed Dick to thank him for the free dock because if we had not told him about it he would have missed it. Mynar and Gail had some guests coming and so they invited us up for happy hour and we joined them for dinner at the new restaurant called Fugi's. It was excellent low priced Japanese food. Mynar said they had been wondering when the gang would be showing up again.
Saturday April 4, 2009
We want to make it to Charleston but don't want to stay at the Mega Dock
The mega dock only had 50 amp service and to find a splitter it would cost about 250.00 so we picked a lovely anchorage at Wappoo Creek. It is apparently very popular but fortunately there were only about three boats when we got there. We anchored next to some beautiful southern mansions. We got ahead of Toucan as they had stopped to walk their dogs. They arrived about a half an hour after we got to the anchorage. This day we had done about 66 miles and we did not even haul the dinghy off the boat to go to shore at the dinghy dock near the Wappoo Bridge. Dick opened the Bridge to check it and we appear to have some extra oil in it. Not sure where it is coming from. Dick spent about an hour cleaning it out. We had a quick bite to eat with provisions from on board and then headed to bed. Every muscle I own is exhausted. I almost need help to get to bed.
Sunday April 5, 2009
666 The Sign of the Engine Beast
Today we did another 66 miles. Add one more 6 and maybe we will understand what is going on. The engine seems to be leaking oil. Dick tried to change the oil filter and see if that was where it was leaking from. We pressed on and actually sailed by the anchorage (White Creek) where we had our Wind Miracle in the fall on the way down. Because of the engine diagnostics we did not get to Georgetown until about 6:30 pm. The weather report later this evening is a gale storm so we decided to take a dock at a Marina. The first marina we called did not have showers available so we declined that and headed to the Boat Shed Marina for the night. They are $1.40 per foot and after 3 days they only charge $25.00 for the dock. We may need to stay to get some work done on the engine.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Savannah - Sweet City
Thursday April 2, 2009
Downtown Savannah
It had been one of my hopes to get to see Savannah on the trip. We had not planned this little extra excursion but due to weather and timing for the kids arrival in Myrtle Beach we were able to take a layover day and tour the city. One of the only reason we afford ourselves the luxury of staying at a dock anymore is for inclement weather. We were were by this time looking at sleeping through our third all night thunderstorm. When we got up that morning there was a slight rain but the temperature was a balmy 70 + degrees we dress lightly and set off on the city bus to downtown Savannah. The bus driver dropped us off at the first square and we had about 10 minutes to walk through a square take some pictures and head to a few shops. Suddenly the heavens opened and it started to pour. It started then and it kept it up all day and all night. I have never seen so much rain. No let up. We had been told about a Tour Trolley to check out and so we decided if we were going to see the city that would be the best way. We set off to find the place to buy the tickets and we ended up on River Street and then back to another section and somehow we ended up at the Hyatt Regency Hotel foyer and we found a gentleman that was selling tickets in the foyer. He got us all set up and we got to do the tour in a trolley with plastic windows. Not really easy to see all the places we were taken but it sure wet the appetite to see it again.
The End of March
Tuesday March 31, 2009
The Captain had charted about a 71 mile passage for the day. We intend to make it to Kilkenny Creek which has good protection, a marina if need be and a small town. There was some skinny water ahead that we wanted to navigate at high tide so the dock attendant at Jekyll Harbour Marina advised that we not leave until 9:00 am. The wind was ever increasing and choppy waters from the south. We gratefully made it though all the areas of concern without going aground. The water was at low tide by the time we got to Kilkenny Creek but this is a deep area so no concern. A Dolphin came to ride on our stern wave for a while as we were coming up to the creek. That is the closest one has come to us. We could have scratched his back. It was 9:00 pm by the time we had dinner and were fastening things down for the thunderstorms that were eminent. About 5:30 am the worst of the storm hit with high winds, it really howls when you are out there in the middle of nature.
Because of the tide we could not sit into the wind so our poor boat was taking waves on the stern and all the canvas was being battered by the wind. It is so frustrating because there is nothing you can do.
Wednesday April 1, 2009
We are going to Savannah
We woke up to the dreaded “Georgian Curse”. The No See 'ums were out in full force. This is our first time in the clouds. They only bite about one every 10 million and are easily demolished by the smack of a wrist. Screaming, whining and spitting has no effect. Tired from not enough sleep we rose early and decide to travel to Thunderbolt and get a dock for a couple of days and ride out these annoying thunderstorms. Thunderbolt was about 30 miles and this is the prettiest part of the trip on the ICW. It is beautiful and has everything, from forests, marshes and waterfront homes laced along the coast. The waters are deep for the most part and it was a relaxing part of the trip. The city of Savannah is actually about 8 miles up river of the normal route so we decided to stay in Thunderbolt and take the bus north to tour the City. When we got to the dock our friends from the swamp were here as well. The wind had died down and the no see 'ums were everywhere. No sign of a recession here. The neighbouring boats are upward to 80 feet and more. The dock fees have increased about 50 cents a foot and they charge for the hydro. The good thing is they still have 30 amp service and include a newspaper and \krispy kream donuts with it in the morning. The down side is they have fee for service wifi and it is $12.00 per day!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Back to the 10/15 cents a minute Cell phone. It was time to do laundry and get dinner ready. The boat beside us is being fumigated and we were wondering what creatures were living aboard. Apparently the owner is exporting it to Australian and the law is they have to be fumigated or they cannot come into the country. He tells us Australia does not have near the number of surges we have on the continents here. We will be touring Savannah tomorrow.
The Captain had charted about a 71 mile passage for the day. We intend to make it to Kilkenny Creek which has good protection, a marina if need be and a small town. There was some skinny water ahead that we wanted to navigate at high tide so the dock attendant at Jekyll Harbour Marina advised that we not leave until 9:00 am. The wind was ever increasing and choppy waters from the south. We gratefully made it though all the areas of concern without going aground. The water was at low tide by the time we got to Kilkenny Creek but this is a deep area so no concern. A Dolphin came to ride on our stern wave for a while as we were coming up to the creek. That is the closest one has come to us. We could have scratched his back. It was 9:00 pm by the time we had dinner and were fastening things down for the thunderstorms that were eminent. About 5:30 am the worst of the storm hit with high winds, it really howls when you are out there in the middle of nature.
Because of the tide we could not sit into the wind so our poor boat was taking waves on the stern and all the canvas was being battered by the wind. It is so frustrating because there is nothing you can do.
Wednesday April 1, 2009
We are going to Savannah
We woke up to the dreaded “Georgian Curse”. The No See 'ums were out in full force. This is our first time in the clouds. They only bite about one every 10 million and are easily demolished by the smack of a wrist. Screaming, whining and spitting has no effect. Tired from not enough sleep we rose early and decide to travel to Thunderbolt and get a dock for a couple of days and ride out these annoying thunderstorms. Thunderbolt was about 30 miles and this is the prettiest part of the trip on the ICW. It is beautiful and has everything, from forests, marshes and waterfront homes laced along the coast. The waters are deep for the most part and it was a relaxing part of the trip. The city of Savannah is actually about 8 miles up river of the normal route so we decided to stay in Thunderbolt and take the bus north to tour the City. When we got to the dock our friends from the swamp were here as well. The wind had died down and the no see 'ums were everywhere. No sign of a recession here. The neighbouring boats are upward to 80 feet and more. The dock fees have increased about 50 cents a foot and they charge for the hydro. The good thing is they still have 30 amp service and include a newspaper and \krispy kream donuts with it in the morning. The down side is they have fee for service wifi and it is $12.00 per day!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Back to the 10/15 cents a minute Cell phone. It was time to do laundry and get dinner ready. The boat beside us is being fumigated and we were wondering what creatures were living aboard. Apparently the owner is exporting it to Australian and the law is they have to be fumigated or they cannot come into the country. He tells us Australia does not have near the number of surges we have on the continents here. We will be touring Savannah tomorrow.
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