Only a few more days till Christmas.

This morning, Dec 22 there were Christmas stockings hanging in the salon, although it’s only a few days till Christmas. Although we watched ELF on the computer last night, it does not seem real as we are sitting around in our bathing suits, snorkeling and going to the beach. Dec 23, Frosty the Snowman was the movie of choice and a few presents were wrapped, ginger bread cookies were made, and candy canes were revealed from their hiding places. With or without decorated trees, lots of presents, snow and all the commercial hype, it will be Christmas in 2 days! Christmas Eve Solange and Salt and Light arrived at White Cay. Denny and crew had landed a good sized blackfin tuna, and since we have the biggest bbq dinner was on High Five. We made the mistake of leaving the boats rafted together after dinner and at 3am, when the tide turned and a squall came through, the anchorage got too rolly for a raft. Fortunately the moon was full, so light was not a problem, and after a few tense moments the boats were apart and a bit more sleep was to be had before Santa arrived. Christmas day, Santa and his elves had found us and found a way to park the sleigh to deliver some boogie boards for the boys and some other presents. Dvd movies were a big gift on all the boats and before lunch 10 kids were hanging out on our boat watching the new Pirates of the Carribean movie. The adults took this opportunity for some exploring in the dinghys and some snorkeling. Hoffman’s Cay is home to a “Blue Hole.” A short walk from the beach, in the middle of the island the trail comes out onto a bluff overlooking the pool. Less than 100 yards across with 20’ vertical walls the water is over 600ft deep and a brilliant shade of blue. After an hour or so of swimming and jumping off the cliffs into the water it was back to the boats. All the boats brought their food to the beach in the anchorage for Christmas dinner. Ham, pork loin, tandori chicken, rice, bread, and of course the traditional Christmas s’mores, were enjoyed around a campfire. Losloper was the first to head the 7 miles south to Cabbage Cay, followed by Salt and Light, and High Five, and the day after by Solange. Dinner was at “Flo’s Conch Bar” a small family run restaurant. Alone at the top of the dock, surrounded with a midden of conch shells the family serves up a feast of conch fritters, cracked conch, lobster, fish, conch salad, and hamburgers. The beaches were popular spots the next day, the kids were practicing with their Christmas skim boards, everyone enjoyed snorkeling in the shallow water. Bands of coral contained dozens of brightly coloured fish, and the nearby grasses gave up 8 conch Some of which we butchered into our own conch salad. We were given some lobster from another cruiser, bbq’d up some steaks, and had a great dinner, for in the morning it was off to Nassau to pick up Granny……..but that will be another blog entry.

Only a few more days till Christmas.

This morning, Dec 22 there were Christmas stockings hanging in the salon, although it’s only a few days till Christmas. Although we watched ELF on the computer last night, it does not seem real as we are sitting around in our bathing suits, snorkeling and going to the beach. Dec 23, Frosty the Snowman was the movie of choice and a few presents were wrapped, ginger bread cookies were made, and candy canes were revealed from their hiding places. With or without decorated trees, lots of presents, snow and all the commercial hype, it will be Christmas in 2 days! Christmas Eve Solange and Salt and Light arrived at White Cay. Denny and crew had landed a good sized blackfin tuna, and since we have the biggest bbq dinner was on High Five. We made the mistake of leaving the boats rafted together after dinner and at 3am, when the tide turned and a squall came through, the anchorage got too rolly for a raft. Fortunately the moon was full, so light was not a problem, and after a few tense moments the boats were apart and a bit more sleep was to be had before Santa arrived. Christmas day, Santa and his elves had found us and found a way to park the sleigh to deliver some boogie boards for the boys and some other presents. Dvd movies were a big gift on all the boats and before lunch 10 kids were hanging out on our boat watching the new Pirates of the Carribean movie. The adults took this opportunity for some exploring in the dinghys and some snorkeling. Hoffman’s Cay is home to a “Blue Hole.” A short walk from the beach, in the middle of the island the trail comes out onto a bluff overlooking the pool. Less than 100 yards across with 20’ vertical walls the water is over 600ft deep and a brilliant shade of blue. After an hour or so of swimming and jumping off the cliffs into the water it was back to the boats. All the boats brought their food to the beach in the anchorage for Christmas dinner. Ham, pork loin, tandori chicken, rice, bread, and of course the traditional Christmas s’mores, were enjoyed around a campfire. Losloper was the first to head the 7 miles south to Cabbage Cay, followed by Salt and Light, and High Five, and the day after by Solange. Dinner was at “Flo’s Conch Bar” a small family run restaurant. Alone at the top of the dock, surrounded with a midden of conch shells the family serves up a feast of conch fritters, cracked conch, lobster, fish, conch salad, and hamburgers. The beaches were popular spots the next day, the kids were practicing with their Christmas skim boards, everyone enjoyed snorkeling in the shallow water. Bands of coral contained dozens of brightly coloured fish, and the nearby grasses gave up 8 conch Some of which we butchered into our own conch salad. We were given some lobster from another cruiser, bbq’d up some steaks, and had a great dinner, for in the morning it was off to Nassau to pick up Granny……..but that will be another blog entry.

The Bahamas

We left West end and sailed southeast to Port Lucaya, arriving in early afternoon. The wind had clocked around to the north so the swells were blocked by Great Bahama Island and we were able to broad reach in 18 – 20 knots of breeze and virtually flat seas. Passing the industrial harbour of Freeport, we made the narrow, but well marked entrance into Port Lucaya, and the Grand Bahama Yacht Club. The harbour itself is about the same size as False Creek, but is connected to the east with a series of canals that were excavated for various housing developments. The marina’s water taxi took us over to the Port Lucaya Market Place, and Count Base square. Here we found a collection of nice restaurants, and a bunch of tourist stores. After dinner, in a very nice Greek taverna, we ran into a family we had met in West End, and enjoyed a drink aboard Equinox, their new Kady Krogen trawler. The boys were entranced with Ally (their 15yr old daughter) and her 48” plasma screen TV, while Janine and Gary admired the other features of this fine yacht. In 2 or 3 years when their daughter goes off to university they plan to do a long slow circumnavigation. Leaving to catch the last water taxi, it was back to the TVless High Five for the night. The next day we caught a bus into Freeport for some shopping at Kelly’s, and the Ace hardware. The fish that we had hooked on the crossing from Florida had taken our best blue and white “Cedar Plug” so some new fishing lures were in order, and as we were unable to find Janine’s mask and snorkel, Santa showed up and we found her a new one. At 0230, yes 0230 the next morning the alarm went off and High Five left Port Lucaya headed for the Berry Islands. A little after 0300 we were motor sailing towards Great Stirrup Cay 56 mile to the SE. Little Stirrup and Great Stirrup Cay, are used by the cruise ship lines as their “beach resorts” so as we passed we could see the cruise ship anchored, some development on the beaches, and parasailers flying around. Continuing south down New Providence Channel we joined Losloper, an Albertan boat whom we had met in West End, at anchor in behind Market Fish Key. Here is where we saw the crystal clear waters of the Bahamas for the first time. Although we have read countless descriptions of the clarity of the water, none can adequately prepare you. Pulling in the fishing lines as we prepared to enter the anchorage the bottom suddenly came into view some 75ft below. Navigating to the anchorage we must have checked the chart and the depthsounder a hundred times as we could not believe the water was deep enough. After anchoring in 12 ft, we donned our masks and snorkels and jumped in. You could easily see a hundred yards and felt like you were flying instead of swimming. After swimming around and around the boat, and checking the anchor, we took the dinghy ashore, ran on the beach and talked to the crew of Losloper. As the anchorage was a bit rolly, the next morning we headed further south to White Cay, at the south end of Hoffman’s Cay. As we were leaving Gary started to put out the fishing lines and in a few minutes one of our hand lines had hooked a 2 ft Barracuda! Teeth and attitude, along with the possibility that Barracudas carry Ciguatera poison, it was released. Moments later another strike, and an identical fish was pulled up to the boat, and spat the hook at the transom saving us from another battle with the teeth. Within 5 minutes we had another strike this time on the rod, providing us with a 2-3 lb Spanish mackerel, which Janine had for dinner the next night. After sailing for a few hours, and no more fish, we entered the cut between Devil’s Cay and White Cay. Again careful attention to the depth sounder, as our eyes cannot, or will not believe what they are seeing. 25 ft of water looks like 4’ or 5’. White Cay sports a fine sand beach, which we quickly covered in footprints. The area around the anchorage includes at least 10 similar beaches contained on half a dozen cays. Friday night we talked to Salt and Light on the Satellite phone. Early Friday morning Salt and Light, Solange had left Florida and were now anchored north of Bimini! Also San-I-Ti, Meander, and Sucia II had left an hour behind them and were all at the docks in Bimini. It was such good news to hear that everyone had made it across safely. Hopefully we will see them all in a few days.

The Bahamas

We left West end and sailed southeast to Port Lucaya, arriving in early afternoon. The wind had clocked around to the north so the swells were blocked by Great Bahama Island and we were able to broad reach in 18 – 20 knots of breeze and virtually flat seas. Passing the industrial harbour of Freeport, we made the narrow, but well marked entrance into Port Lucaya, and the Grand Bahama Yacht Club. The harbour itself is about the same size as False Creek, but is connected to the east with a series of canals that were excavated for various housing developments. The marina’s water taxi took us over to the Port Lucaya Market Place, and Count Base square. Here we found a collection of nice restaurants, and a bunch of tourist stores. After dinner, in a very nice Greek taverna, we ran into a family we had met in West End, and enjoyed a drink aboard Equinox, their new Kady Krogen trawler. The boys were entranced with Ally (their 15yr old daughter) and her 48” plasma screen TV, while Janine and Gary admired the other features of this fine yacht. In 2 or 3 years when their daughter goes off to university they plan to do a long slow circumnavigation. Leaving to catch the last water taxi, it was back to the TVless High Five for the night. The next day we caught a bus into Freeport for some shopping at Kelly’s, and the Ace hardware. The fish that we had hooked on the crossing from Florida had taken our best blue and white “Cedar Plug” so some new fishing lures were in order, and as we were unable to find Janine’s mask and snorkel, Santa showed up and we found her a new one. At 0230, yes 0230 the next morning the alarm went off and High Five left Port Lucaya headed for the Berry Islands. A little after 0300 we were motor sailing towards Great Stirrup Cay 56 mile to the SE. Little Stirrup and Great Stirrup Cay, are used by the cruise ship lines as their “beach resorts” so as we passed we could see the cruise ship anchored, some development on the beaches, and parasailers flying around. Continuing south down New Providence Channel we joined Losloper, an Albertan boat whom we had met in West End, at anchor in behind Market Fish Key. Here is where we saw the crystal clear waters of the Bahamas for the first time. Although we have read countless descriptions of the clarity of the water, none can adequately prepare you. Pulling in the fishing lines as we prepared to enter the anchorage the bottom suddenly came into view some 75ft below. Navigating to the anchorage we must have checked the chart and the depthsounder a hundred times as we could not believe the water was deep enough. After anchoring in 12 ft, we donned our masks and snorkels and jumped in. You could easily see a hundred yards and felt like you were flying instead of swimming. After swimming around and around the boat, and checking the anchor, we took the dinghy ashore, ran on the beach and talked to the crew of Losloper. As the anchorage was a bit rolly, the next morning we headed further south to White Cay, at the south end of Hoffman’s Cay. As we were leaving Gary started to put out the fishing lines and in a few minutes one of our hand lines had hooked a 2 ft Barracuda! Teeth and attitude, along with the possibility that Barracudas carry Ciguatera poison, it was released. Moments later another strike, and an identical fish was pulled up to the boat, and spat the hook at the transom saving us from another battle with the teeth. Within 5 minutes we had another strike this time on the rod, providing us with a 2-3 lb Spanish mackerel, which Janine had for dinner the next night. After sailing for a few hours, and no more fish, we entered the cut between Devil’s Cay and White Cay. Again careful attention to the depth sounder, as our eyes cannot, or will not believe what they are seeing. 25 ft of water looks like 4’ or 5’. White Cay sports a fine sand beach, which we quickly covered in footprints. The area around the anchorage includes at least 10 similar beaches contained on half a dozen cays. Friday night we talked to Salt and Light on the Satellite phone. Early Friday morning Salt and Light, Solange had left Florida and were now anchored north of Bimini! Also San-I-Ti, Meander, and Sucia II had left an hour behind them and were all at the docks in Bimini. It was such good news to hear that everyone had made it across safely. Hopefully we will see them all in a few days.

Bahamas at last

Dec. 13-14th Thursday at lunchtime we left Lake Worth and headed south on the ICW for what would be our last day in the ditch. As we got close to Fort Lauderdale, the dinner boats appeared. Large, and covered in Xmas lights, they made for some challenging navigation. There are at least a dozen lift bridges, all with different schedules, some on the half hour, some on the quarter hour, and 1 every 20 minutes. All the operators were nice except for one who was asleep and did not answer the radio or open when he should, and another who started to close the bridge as we approached. If Janine had not stopped the boat we would have been severely damaged. Around 11:30 pm and tied to a dock littered with 100’ – 200’ mega yachts, and before sun up (0530am) we were on our way again. We passed one more bridge and transited Port Everglades harbour in the dark, dodging cruise ships (they are really easy to see), and headed out. At 645am, after passing one more inbound cruise ship we were on the open ocean and motor sailing close hauled into 15 knots ESE of breeze and disorganized 4’ swells, with the sun just starting to rise. Our plan was to head south for a couple of hours and then east to Bimini, but by the time we were 2 or 3 mile offshore the Gulf Stream had us in its grasp. Our boat speed was still 7 knots but our speed over the ground was only 3 - 4 knots. This would mean our trip to Bimini would take 14plus hours. Plan B…..At about 0830 we tacked onto starboard and close reached NE toward West End. West End was further away but this put the effects of the Gulf Stream behind us and our speed over ground jumped to 10 – 12 knots. The GPS calculated our arrival in less than 8 hours……..As they say ‘it’s important to have a Plan B’…….. The ride was still bumpy but after a while the seas became more organized, and the ride more comfortable. We had put some fishing lines out earlier in the day as the Gulf Stream is supposed to be where all the fish are, but were still surprised when we got a strike. The fish stripped off 100 meters of line and as the chaos subsided and we slowed the boat, there was no line left on the reel, the leader broke, and the fish was gone. The brief view that we got of a dorsal fin, makes us think it was a billfish of some kind. Arriving at Old Bahama Bay Marina in East End, we tied up. We had made it to the Bahamas!! While Gary cleared customs everyone else gave the boat a quick clean before we treated ourselves to a dinner out. Everyone was ravenous as eating had not been a popular sport during the day. Our first night in the Bahamas was a very quiet one with everyone in bed before 9pm!

Bahamas at last

Dec. 13-14th Thursday at lunchtime we left Lake Worth and headed south on the ICW for what would be our last day in the ditch. As we got close to Fort Lauderdale, the dinner boats appeared. Large, and covered in Xmas lights, they made for some challenging navigation. There are at least a dozen lift bridges, all with different schedules, some on the half hour, some on the quarter hour, and 1 every 20 minutes. All the operators were nice except for one who was asleep and did not answer the radio or open when he should, and another who started to close the bridge as we approached. If Janine had not stopped the boat we would have been severely damaged. Around 11:30 pm and tied to a dock littered with 100’ – 200’ mega yachts, and before sun up (0530am) we were on our way again. We passed one more bridge and transited Port Everglades harbour in the dark, dodging cruise ships (they are really easy to see), and headed out. At 645am, after passing one more inbound cruise ship we were on the open ocean and motor sailing close hauled into 15 knots ESE of breeze and disorganized 4’ swells, with the sun just starting to rise. Our plan was to head south for a couple of hours and then east to Bimini, but by the time we were 2 or 3 mile offshore the Gulf Stream had us in its grasp. Our boat speed was still 7 knots but our speed over the ground was only 3 - 4 knots. This would mean our trip to Bimini would take 14plus hours. Plan B…..At about 0830 we tacked onto starboard and close reached NE toward West End. West End was further away but this put the effects of the Gulf Stream behind us and our speed over ground jumped to 10 – 12 knots. The GPS calculated our arrival in less than 8 hours……..As they say ‘it’s important to have a Plan B’…….. The ride was still bumpy but after a while the seas became more organized, and the ride more comfortable. We had put some fishing lines out earlier in the day as the Gulf Stream is supposed to be where all the fish are, but were still surprised when we got a strike. The fish stripped off 100 meters of line and as the chaos subsided and we slowed the boat, there was no line left on the reel, the leader broke, and the fish was gone. The brief view that we got of a dorsal fin, makes us think it was a billfish of some kind. Arriving at Old Bahama Bay Marina in East End, we tied up. We had made it to the Bahamas!! While Gary cleared customs everyone else gave the boat a quick clean before we treated ourselves to a dinner out. Everyone was ravenous as eating had not been a popular sport during the day. Our first night in the Bahamas was a very quiet one with everyone in bed before 9pm!

Tia the Wonder Dog

December 5, 2007 This was the date of Tia’s last day with us. When we left Vancouver, her prognosis was not good, but the boating life agreed with her. After a breakfast of steak and rice, we went to Cocoa beach. Here after a hot dog for a snack Tia spent several hours playing on the beach with her family. Ice Cream for everyone. Tia had her own cone and got to finish the last of a few others. Later, we all made the trip to the vet, and stayed with her to the end. It was peacefull and painless, she was surrounded by those who loved her. She will be missed.

Tia the Wonder Dog

December 5, 2007 This was the date of Tia’s last day with us. When we left Vancouver, her prognosis was not good, but the boating life agreed with her. After a breakfast of steak and rice, we went to Cocoa beach. Here after a hot dog for a snack Tia spent several hours playing on the beach with her family. Ice Cream for everyone. Tia had her own cone and got to finish the last of a few others. Later, we all made the trip to the vet, and stayed with her to the end. It was peacefull and painless, she was surrounded by those who loved her. She will be missed.

Cape Canaveral and Disney World

Disney Land and the Space center With the stove installed it was time to go to the Kennedy Space center. An all day affair, we saw; the Saturn V complex, Went for a ride in the “Shuttle simulator”, and saw the shuttle sitting on the launch pad awaiting next week’s launch. The tourbuses ran every 15 minites around the base and each showed a short movie about the space programme. Everyone was impressed. After a day of rest it was off to the Happiest Place On Earth. Disney World was a splendor of commercial delight. Home of the $6.00 hot dog, we raced around and around riding the rides and taking in the sights. Dancing with the Stars was filming their season opener so the place was busy. Space Mountian was a particular thrill, Gary remembers riding it with his mother 32 years ago in 1975! It was very difficult to convince the boy’s that Grandma had ridden a roller coaster. The Marina in Titusville has a few Manatee swiming around. They are large slow moving creatures, who don't seem to mind us humans at all.

Cape Canaveral and Disney World

Disney Land and the Space center With the stove installed it was time to go to the Kennedy Space center. An all day affair, we saw; the Saturn V complex, Went for a ride in the “Shuttle simulator”, and saw the shuttle sitting on the launch pad awaiting next week’s launch. The tourbuses ran every 15 minites around the base and each showed a short movie about the space programme. Everyone was impressed. After a day of rest it was off to the Happiest Place On Earth. Disney World was a splendor of commercial delight. Home of the $6.00 hot dog, we raced around and around riding the rides and taking in the sights. Dancing with the Stars was filming their season opener so the place was busy. Space Mountian was a particular thrill, Gary remembers riding it with his mother 32 years ago in 1975! It was very difficult to convince the boy’s that Grandma had ridden a roller coaster. The Marina in Titusville has a few Manatee swiming around. They are large slow moving creatures, who don't seem to mind us humans at all.

Florida at last

At first light Solange and us left Cumberland Island and returned to the ocean for a day sail to St Augustine Florida. This was to be our first port in Florida, our 20th and last US state. Arriving in early afternoon, we anchored and went ashore to explore. St Augustine claims to be the oldest European settlement in the United States, settled by the Spanish in 1565. Although a bit touristy for my liking, with horse drawn carriages, and tourist trains, the central square and architecture of the town are undeniably beautiful. We arrived the day after the Christmas lights were lit in the main square. (It’s hard to think about Xmas when you are looking at palm trees) The highlight of the boy’s visit was the Alligator farm. This park contains all 23 species of Crocodilian species. The highlight was the main pool which held 40 American Alligators ranging from 8 – 15 feet long. The trainer walked around inside the pen, and threw food at several of the animals. Suprisingly, most of them were quite well behaved. He was able to call them by name, and they responded. “Hey Skipper turn around” and the 1000 lb lizard did!! and was rewarded with a large dead rodent. The park also contained Scarlet Macaws, some small monkeys, Storks as big as Janine, vultures, and a 10’ANACONDA. On the day we were going to leave, we got a call from Salt and Light, and San-I-Ti. They had got up early in St.Marys, and were on their way to St. Augustine. Our departure was delayed for one more day so we could have a Pizza party with all 9 kids. Early the next morning we were off down the ditch to Daytona Beach, and Titusville

Florida at last

At first light Solange and us left Cumberland Island and returned to the ocean for a day sail to St Augustine Florida. This was to be our first port in Florida, our 20th and last US state. Arriving in early afternoon, we anchored and went ashore to explore. St Augustine claims to be the oldest European settlement in the United States, settled by the Spanish in 1565. Although a bit touristy for my liking, with horse drawn carriages, and tourist trains, the central square and architecture of the town are undeniably beautiful. We arrived the day after the Christmas lights were lit in the main square. (It’s hard to think about Xmas when you are looking at palm trees) The highlight of the boy’s visit was the Alligator farm. This park contains all 23 species of Crocodilian species. The highlight was the main pool which held 40 American Alligators ranging from 8 – 15 feet long. The trainer walked around inside the pen, and threw food at several of the animals. Suprisingly, most of them were quite well behaved. He was able to call them by name, and they responded. “Hey Skipper turn around” and the 1000 lb lizard did!! and was rewarded with a large dead rodent. The park also contained Scarlet Macaws, some small monkeys, Storks as big as Janine, vultures, and a 10’ANACONDA. On the day we were going to leave, we got a call from Salt and Light, and San-I-Ti. They had got up early in St.Marys, and were on their way to St. Augustine. Our departure was delayed for one more day so we could have a Pizza party with all 9 kids. Early the next morning we were off down the ditch to Daytona Beach, and Titusville

South to cumberland Island (link)

Leaving Beaufort South Carolina, (bew – frt) , not to be confused with Beaufort (bow – fort) North Carolina after lunch, when Denny installed his new starter. High Five, Solange, and Salt and Light headed out for what would be a 19hr passage to Cumberland Island, on the southern edge of Georgia. The sail was largely uneventfull, motor sailing for ¾ of the way, cold, even by Vancouver standards, the seas were calm and the wind light. A lot of traffic and a half dozen anchored freighters kept it all interesting. Sun up saw us at Cumberland Island on the border of Georgia and Florida. This sandy barrier island offered great protection and good anchorage..A national park, Cumberland Island is home to, acres of wild sand dunes, miles and miles of “long beach” type beach. After some rest we all went to the beach, where we found ray eggs, horseshoe crabs, shells of every description, a turtle shell 2 feet long, and saw pelicans fishing, and dolphins. A very cool place. The second morning 3 wild horses came to the beach in the anchorage to forage for food. Gary and Richard got some instruction on the “cast net” shrimp fishery, Throwing a 12’ diameter net for an afternoon resulted in 2 (this is not a typo) very small shrimp, and a very sore back. Fortunately a couple of locals took pity on us and gave us a handful from the 15 or 20 gallons of shrimp in their boat. Meanwhile the rest of the gang explored the island. They found the ruins of on of the original homestead and saw a real live armidillo.

South to cumberland Island (link)

Leaving Beaufort South Carolina, (bew – frt) , not to be confused with Beaufort (bow – fort) North Carolina after lunch, when Denny installed his new starter. High Five, Solange, and Salt and Light headed out for what would be a 19hr passage to Cumberland Island, on the southern edge of Georgia. The sail was largely uneventfull, motor sailing for ¾ of the way, cold, even by Vancouver standards, the seas were calm and the wind light. A lot of traffic and a half dozen anchored freighters kept it all interesting. Sun up saw us at Cumberland Island on the border of Georgia and Florida. This sandy barrier island offered great protection and good anchorage..A national park, Cumberland Island is home to, acres of wild sand dunes, miles and miles of “long beach” type beach. After some rest we all went to the beach, where we found ray eggs, horseshoe crabs, shells of every description, a turtle shell 2 feet long, and saw pelicans fishing, and dolphins. A very cool place. The second morning 3 wild horses came to the beach in the anchorage to forage for food. Gary and Richard got some instruction on the “cast net” shrimp fishery, Throwing a 12’ diameter net for an afternoon resulted in 2 (this is not a typo) very small shrimp, and a very sore back. Fortunately a couple of locals took pity on us and gave us a handful from the 15 or 20 gallons of shrimp in their boat. Meanwhile the rest of the gang explored the island. They found the ruins of on of the original homestead and saw a real live armidillo.

Charleston to Beaufort SC

Beaufort South Carolina, (bew – frt) , not to be confused with Beaufort (bow – fort) North Carolina, was 2 easy days travel down to ICW south of Charleston, The first day we left early for the 9am bridge, unfortunately Solange, a boat with a nice family from Alberta could not lift their anchor to join us. It seems, after $500 bucks to a local diver, that their anchor chain had wrapped around a 3 by 20 ft concrete block. When they tried to raise it, it did not budge. While they stayed to retrieve their anchor Salt and Light ( a family from Seattle) and High Five (us) continued down the canal. In the early afternoon we stopped as the tide was very low and the next section was somewhat shallow. In the morning we discovered that Solange had caught up all but 20 miles. They had got an early start and by the time they were a mile away we were ready to go……… Well unfortunately S&L’s starter motor chose this particular time to refuse to function. After an hour of mucking about we got her going and were able to continue to Beaufort. The confusion continued…..As we needed a new alternator, and a spare starter was on the list of things we should have I placed an order with the Yanmar dealer in Beaufort, for both boats. If we paid $40 then the parts would be here in the morning. A couple of phone calls in the morning, and my mistake was realized. The parts were shipped and ended up in Beaufort (bow – fort) NC not to be confused with Beaufort, (bew – frt) SC. Another couple of bucks and the Parts were overnighted from Beaufort to Beaufort and after a quick installation we were on our way.

Charleston to Beaufort SC

Beaufort South Carolina, (bew – frt) , not to be confused with Beaufort (bow – fort) North Carolina, was 2 easy days travel down to ICW south of Charleston, The first day we left early for the 9am bridge, unfortunately Solange, a boat with a nice family from Alberta could not lift their anchor to join us. It seems, after $500 bucks to a local diver, that their anchor chain had wrapped around a 3 by 20 ft concrete block. When they tried to raise it, it did not budge. While they stayed to retrieve their anchor Salt and Light ( a family from Seattle) and High Five (us) continued down the canal. In the early afternoon we stopped as the tide was very low and the next section was somewhat shallow. In the morning we discovered that Solange had caught up all but 20 miles. They had got an early start and by the time they were a mile away we were ready to go……… Well unfortunately S&L’s starter motor chose this particular time to refuse to function. After an hour of mucking about we got her going and were able to continue to Beaufort. The confusion continued…..As we needed a new alternator, and a spare starter was on the list of things we should have I placed an order with the Yanmar dealer in Beaufort, for both boats. If we paid $40 then the parts would be here in the morning. A couple of phone calls in the morning, and my mistake was realized. The parts were shipped and ended up in Beaufort (bow – fort) NC not to be confused with Beaufort, (bew – frt) SC. Another couple of bucks and the Parts were overnighted from Beaufort to Beaufort and after a quick installation we were on our way.

Driving down the ditch

After an early morning departure from Beaufort, we joined the parade down the ICW. There are a few opening bridge in the first 80 miles. Some open every hour (except morning and afternoon rush hour) some every half hour, and some on demand. The bridges regroup all the boats. Everyone is very courteous, even waiting a few extra minutes for the slow boats (us) to catch up. The power boats, some 75 – 100ft come up on you really fast. Usually a brief radio conversation takes place and we slow down, they slow down, pass us, we turn inside their wake and then they speed up and go. That way they don’t throw a big wake at us and knock our boat around. We continue to see dolphins periodically, and more and more pelicans. These are very interesting birds to watch. Each of the next 3 mornings after Beaufort, Janine and I wake, take the dog for a quick walk and are underway by 0630 am. It gets dark between 5:30 and 6 at night so we need to be at a dock or anchored by then. One of the nights we found a restaurant right on the canal that offers free moorage to customers. This is a perfect excuse to get a free dock or a free dinner out, however you want to justify it. As I write, it is Thursday and we are anchored up a side creek, just off the ICW about 60 miles north of Charleston SC. It is very quiet and although cold, lows to mid 30s Fahrenheit, it is clear and dark. The stars are out by the millions. We hope to make Charleston tomorrow. Some of the families we left in Beaufort were planning to sail “Outside” direct from Beaufort to Charleston. They were leaving Wednesday aft/night and should be in Charleston on Fri. The forecasted weather has been 10 – 20 knots of breeze from the north so the sail should have been very nice. Charleston should be fun, Janine and I were there a few years BK (before kids) but it was ridiculously hot and humid so we did not see much. We need to do some shopping, a Costco run and start loading up on all the things we need before we cross to the Bahamas.

Driving down the ditch

After an early morning departure from Beaufort, we joined the parade down the ICW. There are a few opening bridge in the first 80 miles. Some open every hour (except morning and afternoon rush hour) some every half hour, and some on demand. The bridges regroup all the boats. Everyone is very courteous, even waiting a few extra minutes for the slow boats (us) to catch up. The power boats, some 75 – 100ft come up on you really fast. Usually a brief radio conversation takes place and we slow down, they slow down, pass us, we turn inside their wake and then they speed up and go. That way they don’t throw a big wake at us and knock our boat around. We continue to see dolphins periodically, and more and more pelicans. These are very interesting birds to watch. Each of the next 3 mornings after Beaufort, Janine and I wake, take the dog for a quick walk and are underway by 0630 am. It gets dark between 5:30 and 6 at night so we need to be at a dock or anchored by then. One of the nights we found a restaurant right on the canal that offers free moorage to customers. This is a perfect excuse to get a free dock or a free dinner out, however you want to justify it. As I write, it is Thursday and we are anchored up a side creek, just off the ICW about 60 miles north of Charleston SC. It is very quiet and although cold, lows to mid 30s Fahrenheit, it is clear and dark. The stars are out by the millions. We hope to make Charleston tomorrow. Some of the families we left in Beaufort were planning to sail “Outside” direct from Beaufort to Charleston. They were leaving Wednesday aft/night and should be in Charleston on Fri. The forecasted weather has been 10 – 20 knots of breeze from the north so the sail should have been very nice. Charleston should be fun, Janine and I were there a few years BK (before kids) but it was ridiculously hot and humid so we did not see much. We need to do some shopping, a Costco run and start loading up on all the things we need before we cross to the Bahamas.

Beaufort North Carolina

Beaufort Our fridge died. Our last morning in New Bern NC, Janine went to the fridge to get milk and as she opened the lid she was met with a wave of warm, scented air. Well…. 4 days at Oriental’s “Sailcraft Service” boat yard, and a couple of “boat bucks” we are the proud new owners of a new fridge compressor and evaporator. We have yet to make ice cubes, but have frozen some chicken, and cooled a few beers. Leaving Oriental was bittersweet, we had been in the area for 2 weeks. Jimmy, the owner of the Inland Waterway Provisioning Company, had decorated a flat deck trailer for Halloween, and taken about 30 or so kids out trick or treating. The kids loved it! The night before several of us left, a bunch of boaters gathered for a drink. In all there were 16 boat kids between 3 and 15 yrs old. It was cold, everyone was wearing jackets and fleece, and sox!!! Rebecca was even wearing a fleece scarf. I hope we will stay in contact with everyone, and see all the kids further down the road. The next morning, on the way to Oriental NC, Adams Creek contained a small pod of dolphins. The kids were up on the bow watching, but none of the dolphins wanted to play. Later in the day, in Russel Slough close to Beaufort, we saw a bunch more dolphins, and in the anchorage at Beaufort, we saw Andy from San-I-Ti rowing his dinghy with dolphins all around him. He was very excited, and so were we when the dolphins came very close to our boat. Shackleford Bank, also known as Carrot Island, is home to a herd of wild horses, we were moored right beside it and were able to see a few of them grazing on the sea grass. Beaufort is one of the towns that I would like to spend more time at. The local who rented us the mooring said “Where else can you have a cold beer with a pretty girl and look out and see dolphins, wild horses and a beautiful sunset all in the same line of sight……. It just doesn’t get any better than that.” All too soon it was time to go.

Beaufort North Carolina

Beaufort Our fridge died. Our last morning in New Bern NC, Janine went to the fridge to get milk and as she opened the lid she was met with a wave of warm, scented air. Well…. 4 days at Oriental’s “Sailcraft Service” boat yard, and a couple of “boat bucks” we are the proud new owners of a new fridge compressor and evaporator. We have yet to make ice cubes, but have frozen some chicken, and cooled a few beers. Leaving Oriental was bittersweet, we had been in the area for 2 weeks. Jimmy, the owner of the Inland Waterway Provisioning Company, had decorated a flat deck trailer for Halloween, and taken about 30 or so kids out trick or treating. The kids loved it! The night before several of us left, a bunch of boaters gathered for a drink. In all there were 16 boat kids between 3 and 15 yrs old. It was cold, everyone was wearing jackets and fleece, and sox!!! Rebecca was even wearing a fleece scarf. I hope we will stay in contact with everyone, and see all the kids further down the road. The next morning, on the way to Oriental NC, Adams Creek contained a small pod of dolphins. The kids were up on the bow watching, but none of the dolphins wanted to play. Later in the day, in Russel Slough close to Beaufort, we saw a bunch more dolphins, and in the anchorage at Beaufort, we saw Andy from San-I-Ti rowing his dinghy with dolphins all around him. He was very excited, and so were we when the dolphins came very close to our boat. Shackleford Bank, also known as Carrot Island, is home to a herd of wild horses, we were moored right beside it and were able to see a few of them grazing on the sea grass. Beaufort is one of the towns that I would like to spend more time at. The local who rented us the mooring said “Where else can you have a cold beer with a pretty girl and look out and see dolphins, wild horses and a beautiful sunset all in the same line of sight……. It just doesn’t get any better than that.” All too soon it was time to go.

I want to catch a fish!!!!!!!

Hi it's Richard! It is getting colder here and i am they only heater besides dad and mum really wants to go south.so we are. Bye Richard

I want to catch a fish!!!!!!!

Hi it's Richard! It is getting colder here and i am they only heater besides dad and mum really wants to go south.so we are. Bye Richard

Neuse River and the Cruiser's Rally (Click here)

Southbound Cruisers Rally Several people had told us about a “Southbound Cruisers Rally” in New Bern NC, about 20 miles to the West of Oriental. After deciding to stay for Halloween, this became an ideal side trip. http://www.ncgam.com/ While there we met a bunch of people who are going south, some who wish they were going south, and many who had made the trip before. The information was great, we learned a lot. The presenters included Cartographers, Meteorologists, Oceanographers, Doctors, Veterinarians, and people who had made the trip many times. It was a very busy couple of days, and a very worthwhile experience. Sunday we had a boisterous sail back to Oriental and are now anchored securely in the harbour. We are around the corner to the left of this webcam http://www.towndock.net/harborcam.shtml (Click on next title) It has cooled off considerably, but I know there is no sympathy to be had! Sunday morning when Janine opened the fridge she was greeted with warm scented air. It seems that our engine driven fridge has taken a holiday. Gary recharged the refrigerant and checked for leaks, but it is still not working properly. We are seeing a mechanic this week. Tropical depression Noel is off the north coast of Cuba this morning (Tues) and is expected to travel northward, well offshore over the next few days. It poses no threat, but everyone is watching it carefully. http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/#NOEL We are eager to continue south, and are spending our time readying the boat and crew. The boys continue to do well at boat school, even though motivation is often difficult. Tia is still defying the odds and is as perky as ever. Hope everyone is well High Five V

Neuse River and the Cruiser's Rally (Click here)

Southbound Cruisers Rally Several people had told us about a “Southbound Cruisers Rally” in New Bern NC, about 20 miles to the West of Oriental. After deciding to stay for Halloween, this became an ideal side trip. http://www.ncgam.com/ While there we met a bunch of people who are going south, some who wish they were going south, and many who had made the trip before. The information was great, we learned a lot. The presenters included Cartographers, Meteorologists, Oceanographers, Doctors, Veterinarians, and people who had made the trip many times. It was a very busy couple of days, and a very worthwhile experience. Sunday we had a boisterous sail back to Oriental and are now anchored securely in the harbour. We are around the corner to the left of this webcam http://www.towndock.net/harborcam.shtml (Click on next title) It has cooled off considerably, but I know there is no sympathy to be had! Sunday morning when Janine opened the fridge she was greeted with warm scented air. It seems that our engine driven fridge has taken a holiday. Gary recharged the refrigerant and checked for leaks, but it is still not working properly. We are seeing a mechanic this week. Tropical depression Noel is off the north coast of Cuba this morning (Tues) and is expected to travel northward, well offshore over the next few days. It poses no threat, but everyone is watching it carefully. http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/#NOEL We are eager to continue south, and are spending our time readying the boat and crew. The boys continue to do well at boat school, even though motivation is often difficult. Tia is still defying the odds and is as perky as ever. Hope everyone is well High Five V

Oriental NC

Norfolk Virginia Norfolk is a very large navel ship yard, sailing into town you pass at least 20 military ships, including at least 4 aircraft carriers. We toured the USS Wisconsin, a Iowa class battleship, 832’ long, it is quite imposing. While at the marina, “Buster” a 37’ Nordic Tug that we had met in August at Waterford NY on the Hudson river, arrived. Ken and Georganne live in Florida and had spent the summer up north. They we going to leave the boat soon and travel home. After a few days in Norfolk, we got up early and headed down the canal towards the first bridge ( a little bit behind Buster). By 8:30 when the bridge opened, there were at least 12 other boats. About 5 miles (and about 3 hours) along there is a small lock, that controls the water level between Chesapeake Bay and the canal. At the end of the lock we had caught up with Buster, they had arrived at their marina where Buster would stay for the winter while they returned to Florida. It was a bit sad to see them sitting on their boat knowing that their trip was over, but it sounded like they had a great summer. After a long day we tied to the side of the canal at Coinjock. While the kids watched a movie Janine and I got to have a dinner for 2 in the local restaurant. The next day, again was a long power down the canal, a short sail across Aberlmarle sound, and a long power up the Alligator river, and through the Alligator/Pungo river cut to Dowry Creek. This day was a little too long as we arrived at the dock an hour after dark, with 15kts of breeze, into a lee shore creek marina with unlit navigation markers that didn’t show up well on the radar. Fortunatly the marina operator was there and helped us through the markers to the dock, where 8 or so people greeted us and helped us dock. Dowry Creek had a pool, and a courtesy car, so after a sleep in, a pump out and a swim, we went into town for ice cream. The next morning we headed down the Pungo river, across the Pamlico river , up Goose creek, and into the Bay River. Several of the guide books said that we may see dolphins in this area, Janine and the kids were hopeful, I was skeptical. Everyone had there eyes peeled, and we were rewarded with a small pod, who played in our bow wave for 2 or 3 minutes. Every one was very excited, especially Janine, hope fully we will see lots more dolphins along the way.. By the end of the day, we made it to Oriental North Carolina. Coming into the harbour we saw a few more dolphins around, but none would come and play. The kids had bee complaining that we had not seen any other “kid” boats for a while so when we saw “Salt&Light” with 3 kids aboard we went straight over to say hi. It turns they are from Seattle, and are doing pretty much the same thing we are. They bought the boat in Charleston and are headed to the islands. After going ashore we met Kristopher, who works at the local marine store, and his wife Rebbecca, who works at M&M diner. They have 5 kids and their boat is currently out of the water being repainted and readied to return to the Bahamas in 4 or 5 weeks. If 5 kids was not enough, they take in a “troubled teen” for the winter to keep things interesting. Oriental is a nice small town. There are 6 or 8 eighty foot shrimp boats in the harbour. We want to be back here for Halloween. PS I think i linked the title to the town webcam

Oriental NC

Norfolk Virginia Norfolk is a very large navel ship yard, sailing into town you pass at least 20 military ships, including at least 4 aircraft carriers. We toured the USS Wisconsin, a Iowa class battleship, 832’ long, it is quite imposing. While at the marina, “Buster” a 37’ Nordic Tug that we had met in August at Waterford NY on the Hudson river, arrived. Ken and Georganne live in Florida and had spent the summer up north. They we going to leave the boat soon and travel home. After a few days in Norfolk, we got up early and headed down the canal towards the first bridge ( a little bit behind Buster). By 8:30 when the bridge opened, there were at least 12 other boats. About 5 miles (and about 3 hours) along there is a small lock, that controls the water level between Chesapeake Bay and the canal. At the end of the lock we had caught up with Buster, they had arrived at their marina where Buster would stay for the winter while they returned to Florida. It was a bit sad to see them sitting on their boat knowing that their trip was over, but it sounded like they had a great summer. After a long day we tied to the side of the canal at Coinjock. While the kids watched a movie Janine and I got to have a dinner for 2 in the local restaurant. The next day, again was a long power down the canal, a short sail across Aberlmarle sound, and a long power up the Alligator river, and through the Alligator/Pungo river cut to Dowry Creek. This day was a little too long as we arrived at the dock an hour after dark, with 15kts of breeze, into a lee shore creek marina with unlit navigation markers that didn’t show up well on the radar. Fortunatly the marina operator was there and helped us through the markers to the dock, where 8 or so people greeted us and helped us dock. Dowry Creek had a pool, and a courtesy car, so after a sleep in, a pump out and a swim, we went into town for ice cream. The next morning we headed down the Pungo river, across the Pamlico river , up Goose creek, and into the Bay River. Several of the guide books said that we may see dolphins in this area, Janine and the kids were hopeful, I was skeptical. Everyone had there eyes peeled, and we were rewarded with a small pod, who played in our bow wave for 2 or 3 minutes. Every one was very excited, especially Janine, hope fully we will see lots more dolphins along the way.. By the end of the day, we made it to Oriental North Carolina. Coming into the harbour we saw a few more dolphins around, but none would come and play. The kids had bee complaining that we had not seen any other “kid” boats for a while so when we saw “Salt&Light” with 3 kids aboard we went straight over to say hi. It turns they are from Seattle, and are doing pretty much the same thing we are. They bought the boat in Charleston and are headed to the islands. After going ashore we met Kristopher, who works at the local marine store, and his wife Rebbecca, who works at M&M diner. They have 5 kids and their boat is currently out of the water being repainted and readied to return to the Bahamas in 4 or 5 weeks. If 5 kids was not enough, they take in a “troubled teen” for the winter to keep things interesting. Oriental is a nice small town. There are 6 or 8 eighty foot shrimp boats in the harbour. We want to be back here for Halloween. PS I think i linked the title to the town webcam

Southern Chesapeake

Now that Grandpa and Grandma have gone home, the weather has turned cool. The trees have started to turn and all the cruisers are hurrying south. It is very pretty, but we are anxious to get going. We stopped at Solomon Island, and in the morning discovered that we had anchored right beside Lenny, a single-hander from Long Island, that we had met a week or so previous. After a trip to the museum, where they had a display of Rays and Skates, a screwpile lighthouse, and a pair of sea otters, Len joined us for dinner. The next day we went across the mouth of the Potomac river to Reedsville, where we spent a few days. We were finally able to pick up our new outboard, a Nissan 9.8hp four stroke, it makes the dinghy move along nicely. Monday(Oct 15) we powered south to Deltaville where we planned to spend a night or two, unfortunately wet met our old friend the mud in the middle of the channel into Jackson creek. After backing off the mud we retreated to the other side of the bay and anchored for the night. Tuesday we traveled down the bay to Norfolk VA. The US Navel yard is here and there are dozens of ships including at least 5 aircraft carriers. We have taken a marina downtown and will grocery shop and clean up tomorrow before entering the Inter coastal waterway. We hope to be in Beaufort NC to celebrate Halloween.

Southern Chesapeake

Now that Grandpa and Grandma have gone home, the weather has turned cool. The trees have started to turn and all the cruisers are hurrying south. It is very pretty, but we are anxious to get going. We stopped at Solomon Island, and in the morning discovered that we had anchored right beside Lenny, a single-hander from Long Island, that we had met a week or so previous. After a trip to the museum, where they had a display of Rays and Skates, a screwpile lighthouse, and a pair of sea otters, Len joined us for dinner. The next day we went across the mouth of the Potomac river to Reedsville, where we spent a few days. We were finally able to pick up our new outboard, a Nissan 9.8hp four stroke, it makes the dinghy move along nicely. Monday(Oct 15) we powered south to Deltaville where we planned to spend a night or two, unfortunately wet met our old friend the mud in the middle of the channel into Jackson creek. After backing off the mud we retreated to the other side of the bay and anchored for the night. Tuesday we traveled down the bay to Norfolk VA. The US Navel yard is here and there are dozens of ships including at least 5 aircraft carriers. We have taken a marina downtown and will grocery shop and clean up tomorrow before entering the Inter coastal waterway. We hope to be in Beaufort NC to celebrate Halloween.

Baltimore

Baltimore’s inner harbour has a few marinas and a sort of Yaletown, Granville Island feel to it, brick sea wall, restaurants etc. We are docked right in the middle of it all. It has been a busy week, Keith and Ladora, Gary’s parents, have been here and the grandchildren have been spoiled. Sleepovers in the hotel, swimming in the pool, and eating whatever they want. Gary and Janine were able to get to the Annapolis sailboat show, and the Latitudes and Attitudes cruisers party. We bought a used hard bottom dinghy, and plan to buy an outboard in Reedsville, from a dealer we met at the show. This should be a lot of fun. Hopefully it will save us money in the long run. It will allow us to anchor out and not have to pay dockage fees as often. We have been on 2 “field trips” to Washington DC. The air and space display has the Wright bros plane, the Spirit of St Louis, Gossamer Condor, and many others. It also had John Glenn’s space capsule, the command module and an unused lunar module from the Apollo spacecraft. We had to go back a second day to digest it all. It was sad to leave Baltimore, and Grandpa and Grandma, not only did they spoil the grandchildren but Gary, Janine and the dog as well.

Baltimore

Baltimore’s inner harbour has a few marinas and a sort of Yaletown, Granville Island feel to it, brick sea wall, restaurants etc. We are docked right in the middle of it all. It has been a busy week, Keith and Ladora, Gary’s parents, have been here and the grandchildren have been spoiled. Sleepovers in the hotel, swimming in the pool, and eating whatever they want. Gary and Janine were able to get to the Annapolis sailboat show, and the Latitudes and Attitudes cruisers party. We bought a used hard bottom dinghy, and plan to buy an outboard in Reedsville, from a dealer we met at the show. This should be a lot of fun. Hopefully it will save us money in the long run. It will allow us to anchor out and not have to pay dockage fees as often. We have been on 2 “field trips” to Washington DC. The air and space display has the Wright bros plane, the Spirit of St Louis, Gossamer Condor, and many others. It also had John Glenn’s space capsule, the command module and an unused lunar module from the Apollo spacecraft. We had to go back a second day to digest it all. It was sad to leave Baltimore, and Grandpa and Grandma, not only did they spoil the grandchildren but Gary, Janine and the dog as well.

Dodging Crabpots in the Chesapeake

From Chesapeake City we caught the tide and with the help of a 10 - 20 knot tail wind we blasted into Chesapeake Bay. The bay is quite shallow and littered with crab pots, so we had to keep to the main channel most of the way, and keep a sharp look out. After a great sail we had a brief stop in Rock Hall Harbour, then after talking to Len on Dreamer, who we had met in Chesapeake City, we motored around the corner into Swan Creek and anchored in 7 ft of water. With an 18-inch tide, we had 6” to spare. We are still not really used to the shallow water but are getting better. There were at least a dozen boats, in the creek with us, and the bottom was soft mud so even if you do touch bottom there is no damage. Rock Hall was having their fall fair; we went into town and were treated to musicians, crafts and food. There is a trolley service in Rock Hall that allows dogs onboard. Tia was very content to ride the air-conditioned trolley around town. The dog treats the driver handed out were an added bonus! The next day Bill, from New York on Second Wind arrived and shortly after Don, Heesook, and Christopher arrived on Patience. Tom on Mover, who we had met in Waterford on the Erie Canal, was already in the anchorage. The fall migration of cruisers has begun, and every anchorage we are meeting more people. George, who we met in Chesapeake City and again in Rock Hall, has been on his boat 11years. He has spent winters in Iceland, 2 years in the Baltic Sea, bought and sold a house in Portugal. He brought his slide show to our boat to show us some of his adventures; we were all most impressed, especially Tavish who decided we should never go home because there is so much in the world to see. On Tuesday Oct 2 we traveled from Swan Creek across the Chesapeake to Baltimore. The school day started with the kids learning to plot our course and calculate our estimated travel time. They successfully had us arriving in Baltimore in time for dinner. We were even ahead of schedule thanks to a favorable current. Janine had the unfortunate task of cleaning the fridge enroute; this task is more difficult for the vertically challenged. The fridge is deeper than her arms will reach so mopping out the bottom involves hanging head first into the fridge balancing on her abdomen. This is not a job to be undertaken if there is any sort of swell, as the abdominal pressure combined with the smells in the fridge are nauseating enough. We arrived in the Baltimore inner harbor at 4pm. It is a vibrant busy waterfront which reminds us all of False Creek. We are secured at the city docks, which will be our home for the next week while we visit with Gary’s parents, Keith and Ladora.

Dodging Crabpots in the Chesapeake

From Chesapeake City we caught the tide and with the help of a 10 - 20 knot tail wind we blasted into Chesapeake Bay. The bay is quite shallow and littered with crab pots, so we had to keep to the main channel most of the way, and keep a sharp look out. After a great sail we had a brief stop in Rock Hall Harbour, then after talking to Len on Dreamer, who we had met in Chesapeake City, we motored around the corner into Swan Creek and anchored in 7 ft of water. With an 18-inch tide, we had 6” to spare. We are still not really used to the shallow water but are getting better. There were at least a dozen boats, in the creek with us, and the bottom was soft mud so even if you do touch bottom there is no damage. Rock Hall was having their fall fair; we went into town and were treated to musicians, crafts and food. There is a trolley service in Rock Hall that allows dogs onboard. Tia was very content to ride the air-conditioned trolley around town. The dog treats the driver handed out were an added bonus! The next day Bill, from New York on Second Wind arrived and shortly after Don, Heesook, and Christopher arrived on Patience. Tom on Mover, who we had met in Waterford on the Erie Canal, was already in the anchorage. The fall migration of cruisers has begun, and every anchorage we are meeting more people. George, who we met in Chesapeake City and again in Rock Hall, has been on his boat 11years. He has spent winters in Iceland, 2 years in the Baltic Sea, bought and sold a house in Portugal. He brought his slide show to our boat to show us some of his adventures; we were all most impressed, especially Tavish who decided we should never go home because there is so much in the world to see. On Tuesday Oct 2 we traveled from Swan Creek across the Chesapeake to Baltimore. The school day started with the kids learning to plot our course and calculate our estimated travel time. They successfully had us arriving in Baltimore in time for dinner. We were even ahead of schedule thanks to a favorable current. Janine had the unfortunate task of cleaning the fridge enroute; this task is more difficult for the vertically challenged. The fridge is deeper than her arms will reach so mopping out the bottom involves hanging head first into the fridge balancing on her abdomen. This is not a job to be undertaken if there is any sort of swell, as the abdominal pressure combined with the smells in the fridge are nauseating enough. We arrived in the Baltimore inner harbor at 4pm. It is a vibrant busy waterfront which reminds us all of False Creek. We are secured at the city docks, which will be our home for the next week while we visit with Gary’s parents, Keith and Ladora.

Chesapeake City and the C & D Canal

After a great night at Riverside Yacht Club Doug left us for the airport, and we turned south for Delaware City, to pick up our parts and into the canal. The C&D Canal joins the top of Delaware bay with Chesapeake Bay. It has a fair amount of commercial traffic. Big car carriers move through the canal, quite slowly with little room to spare. We had 2 1/2 knots of current with us down the Delaware, but after picking up the alternator and turning into the canal the current turned against us. It was a beautiful clear night with a full moon, so it was a pleasant, but slow, motor down the canal, with the BBQ blazing to Chesapeake City. Chesapeake City is another small town with 27 antique/craft/gift stores and nowhere to buy a jug of milk or a block of cheese. Fortunatly we met some people, on a boat from NY, whose daughter lived nearby who gave Janine and the kids a ride, over the bridge to the grocery store. We stayed here a few days and are now going to head into Chesapeake Bay. Wednesday, Gary's parents are flying into Baltimore for a visit. The kids are very excited to see their grandparents, They were in Europe this summer and we haven't seen them since June. We have plans to go to the Anappolis boat show as well as Washington DC. Cheers G

Chesapeake City and the C & D Canal

After a great night at Riverside Yacht Club Doug left us for the airport, and we turned south for Delaware City, to pick up our parts and into the canal. The C&D Canal joins the top of Delaware bay with Chesapeake Bay. It has a fair amount of commercial traffic. Big car carriers move through the canal, quite slowly with little room to spare. We had 2 1/2 knots of current with us down the Delaware, but after picking up the alternator and turning into the canal the current turned against us. It was a beautiful clear night with a full moon, so it was a pleasant, but slow, motor down the canal, with the BBQ blazing to Chesapeake City. Chesapeake City is another small town with 27 antique/craft/gift stores and nowhere to buy a jug of milk or a block of cheese. Fortunatly we met some people, on a boat from NY, whose daughter lived nearby who gave Janine and the kids a ride, over the bridge to the grocery store. We stayed here a few days and are now going to head into Chesapeake Bay. Wednesday, Gary's parents are flying into Baltimore for a visit. The kids are very excited to see their grandparents, They were in Europe this summer and we haven't seen them since June. We have plans to go to the Anappolis boat show as well as Washington DC. Cheers G

Riverside Yacht Club

This club is

Riverside Yacht Club

This club is

Cape May and Delaware Bay

After a foggy start we had an afternoon of great sailing into Cape May. Close reaching in 7 - 10 knots of wind, very nice. Cape May provided us with a nice marina and the Lobster House: close to 400 seat seafood restaurant. Anothe great meal. Overnight the wind switched to the north and built to 15 - 20 knots in the morning making for our most exciting sailing yet. Cape May is very shallow and littered with shoals so we sailed out into the ocean for an hour and a half and then gybed for the entrance to the shipping channels. Once again we are so happy with the way the boat handles, always predictable and easy to steer. Once we turned into the channel inside Delaware Bay the wind slowly went further and further forward so soon we were motoring into the wind. The Flood current into the bay never really materialized until quite late in the day, so it was fairly slow going. The alternator chose today to pack it in. We made Delaware City in the dark after almost going the wrong way. It was great to have Doug along, the extra set of experienced hands on board really made things a whole lot easier. Monday, after ordering a new alternator, we continued up the Delaware River to Philadelphia and the Riverside Yacht Club.

Cape May and Delaware Bay

After a foggy start we had an afternoon of great sailing into Cape May. Close reaching in 7 - 10 knots of wind, very nice. Cape May provided us with a nice marina and the Lobster House: close to 400 seat seafood restaurant. Anothe great meal. Overnight the wind switched to the north and built to 15 - 20 knots in the morning making for our most exciting sailing yet. Cape May is very shallow and littered with shoals so we sailed out into the ocean for an hour and a half and then gybed for the entrance to the shipping channels. Once again we are so happy with the way the boat handles, always predictable and easy to steer. Once we turned into the channel inside Delaware Bay the wind slowly went further and further forward so soon we were motoring into the wind. The Flood current into the bay never really materialized until quite late in the day, so it was fairly slow going. The alternator chose today to pack it in. We made Delaware City in the dark after almost going the wrong way. It was great to have Doug along, the extra set of experienced hands on board really made things a whole lot easier. Monday, after ordering a new alternator, we continued up the Delaware River to Philadelphia and the Riverside Yacht Club.

New Jersey

New Jersey The coast is flat and sandy, miles and miles of beach. The sailing has been lousy, very little no wind. The first day we motor sailed to Manasquan harbour, about 50 miles south of the NYC. It is a summer resort town with an amusement park, minigolf, beach bars, and a boardwalk close to a mile long lined with carnival games, ice cream, restaurants and souvenir stands. Friday we left Manasquan early to catch the tide and continue south to Atlantic City. We motorsailed the whole way. The calm is boring nut still preferable to the storms that are possible in this area. The Trump Marina/Hotel/Casino in Atlantic City allowed us a few hours of free dockage, this allowed us to swim in the pool, and have appy hour on the deck. Las Vegas style, over the top, but a fun diversion. After appy hour, we motored into a small lagoon to anchor for the night (the marina was $200/night). From the anchorage we could see the light show on the side of the hotel across the chanel. Saturday morning we awoke early foggy and calm conditions. another pot of coffee and we will see what the weather does.

New Jersey

New Jersey The coast is flat and sandy, miles and miles of beach. The sailing has been lousy, very little no wind. The first day we motor sailed to Manasquan harbour, about 50 miles south of the NYC. It is a summer resort town with an amusement park, minigolf, beach bars, and a boardwalk close to a mile long lined with carnival games, ice cream, restaurants and souvenir stands. Friday we left Manasquan early to catch the tide and continue south to Atlantic City. We motorsailed the whole way. The calm is boring nut still preferable to the storms that are possible in this area. The Trump Marina/Hotel/Casino in Atlantic City allowed us a few hours of free dockage, this allowed us to swim in the pool, and have appy hour on the deck. Las Vegas style, over the top, but a fun diversion. After appy hour, we motored into a small lagoon to anchor for the night (the marina was $200/night). From the anchorage we could see the light show on the side of the hotel across the chanel. Saturday morning we awoke early foggy and calm conditions. another pot of coffee and we will see what the weather does.

THE BIG APPLE

THE BIG APPLE Sorry we have been out of touch the last while NYC has been so busy. We stayed at 79th st boat basin for 4 or 5 days. Talk about Location, 4 blocks to central park, close to downtown. From here we went to the Metropolitan museum of art and the American museum of natural history, Central Park, to the top of the Empire State Building, and to FAO Schwartz (the worlds biggest toy store. Then we moved to City Island at the south end of Long Island Sound. On the way we had a tour around the Statue of Liberty and a scenic boat ride up the East River, City Island is bit out of the way but much more comfortable, and still able to access the city on transit. School, for the kids, has started well, about half and half field trips and study. Janine, Ina, and the kids went to the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. This is a “field trip” so they are going to do their first school projects. They were gathering information as they went, we’ll see how the projects go. Then on Sunday we took Granny downtown and put her on a bus to Newark airport. It was sad to see her go, but we had a great visit and Papa needs her as well, a golf champion cannot live on TV dinners! Wednesday we got up early and went south down the East River and anchored in Liberty State Park behind the Statue of Liberty. Security around the Statue is close to ridiculous. There is a Coast Guard Cutter moored in front and a pair of 25ft rigid hull inflatable patrol boats, complete with twin 250hp engines and machineguns mounted for and aft zipping around. Wednesday night Doug arrived from Vancouver. Early Thursday we left NYC behind and powered out of the bay, past Sandy Hook, and down the New Jersey shore. The 2 Coast guard boats were motoring along side the Staten Island Ferry. One veered off and came towards us for a moment, and then returned to its original path. It is odd to see a boat coming at you at 25 knots with two machine guns mounted on it! It is too bad that we do not have more time to play in NYC the city is much more clean and friendly than anticipated, and so much we did not see. I guess you could spend a year there and not see everything.

THE BIG APPLE

THE BIG APPLE Sorry we have been out of touch the last while NYC has been so busy. We stayed at 79th st boat basin for 4 or 5 days. Talk about Location, 4 blocks to central park, close to downtown. From here we went to the Metropolitan museum of art and the American museum of natural history, Central Park, to the top of the Empire State Building, and to FAO Schwartz (the worlds biggest toy store. Then we moved to City Island at the south end of Long Island Sound. On the way we had a tour around the Statue of Liberty and a scenic boat ride up the East River, City Island is bit out of the way but much more comfortable, and still able to access the city on transit. School, for the kids, has started well, about half and half field trips and study. Janine, Ina, and the kids went to the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. This is a “field trip” so they are going to do their first school projects. They were gathering information as they went, we’ll see how the projects go. Then on Sunday we took Granny downtown and put her on a bus to Newark airport. It was sad to see her go, but we had a great visit and Papa needs her as well, a golf champion cannot live on TV dinners! Wednesday we got up early and went south down the East River and anchored in Liberty State Park behind the Statue of Liberty. Security around the Statue is close to ridiculous. There is a Coast Guard Cutter moored in front and a pair of 25ft rigid hull inflatable patrol boats, complete with twin 250hp engines and machineguns mounted for and aft zipping around. Wednesday night Doug arrived from Vancouver. Early Thursday we left NYC behind and powered out of the bay, past Sandy Hook, and down the New Jersey shore. The 2 Coast guard boats were motoring along side the Staten Island Ferry. One veered off and came towards us for a moment, and then returned to its original path. It is odd to see a boat coming at you at 25 knots with two machine guns mounted on it! It is too bad that we do not have more time to play in NYC the city is much more clean and friendly than anticipated, and so much we did not see. I guess you could spend a year there and not see everything.