tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57881616922842582492024-03-18T21:32:42.772-07:00Third Sailing Adventure SouthGraeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-47171754045161976152013-06-24T16:19:00.004-07:002013-06-24T18:10:19.626-07:00Epilogue<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> <span style="color: red;"> Epilogue</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Springtime is always a
busy time of year, even when one is not away for 225 days or 7 mons. + 2 days! Immediate tasks included unpacking the car,
unpacking clothes, unpacking the bins & 4 loads of laundry, reinstating my
car insurance, purchasing some groceries & some annuals for starters. When weather permitted the grass weeding was
started, old scraggly shrubs cut down & stumps removed, shrub &
perennials moved around, grass seed spread, planters filled with fresh soil
& colourful annuals, the vegetable garden was rotatilled & prepared for
planting & the large grass compost heap of grass & leaves was
rotatilled. On the many inclimate
weather days of cool temps & rain even as we got closer to summer, the
kitchen cupboards were washed & restocked, the floors were washed, the
carpets vacuumed, the furniture dusted, closets & dresser drawers rearranged,
windows & screens washed & the ongoing & monumental task of filing
paper & invoices, gathering years & years of old utility bills, taxes,
papers etc. for shredding, cleaning out & up & organizing the basement. Then of course of great importance to me is
fitness; fitting in my powerwalks, increasing distance & frequency of bike
rides, joining a gym & attending a few sessions with a personal trainer
& fitness classes, all in an attempt to shed some added adipose tissue,
tighten lose & weak muscles & improve physical endurance, strength
& aerobic stamina. I guess you might
say we are back into the rat race of modern North American life. Though, on my walks & bike rides I do
block out the sounds of city life & enjoy the sounds of birds, the smells
of Spring, the greenness & peacefulness surrounding me & I think of
those tranquil, peaceful, relaxed, simple, basic, uncomplicated, most spectacular,
breathtaking views & times in the Bahamas!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">My Home Ottawa!</span><br />
<br /><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNaSpknaLLmIzbRZLvFaLo7s5wSt8OyilUesOMIL5gmSuS5jlIBtD6QNl1yE15GqMm2NR26f9O7p_PXjFVpzgfJBomQ9dahJ3L-CR5-bcfx02C1HpkLkqwbgHoibUnzPXgIvNrbNzx2dYi/s1600/July+1,+Parliament+Hill.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNaSpknaLLmIzbRZLvFaLo7s5wSt8OyilUesOMIL5gmSuS5jlIBtD6QNl1yE15GqMm2NR26f9O7p_PXjFVpzgfJBomQ9dahJ3L-CR5-bcfx02C1HpkLkqwbgHoibUnzPXgIvNrbNzx2dYi/s320/July+1,+Parliament+Hill.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih9M-E1SvvQZapnLKNmyzpWMnMswIXoT2UkoD1XDMHqPbsvS4xYJY6W-CR3TazRIHLd6eBOVuigSIxZqP9SmhF6KfenT4YMI4QvPQpAFdlGlzx5CXI9fyjXUg-FUfGdD3ouMLqFZozgfpD/s1600/2012+066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih9M-E1SvvQZapnLKNmyzpWMnMswIXoT2UkoD1XDMHqPbsvS4xYJY6W-CR3TazRIHLd6eBOVuigSIxZqP9SmhF6KfenT4YMI4QvPQpAFdlGlzx5CXI9fyjXUg-FUfGdD3ouMLqFZozgfpD/s1600/2012+066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih9M-E1SvvQZapnLKNmyzpWMnMswIXoT2UkoD1XDMHqPbsvS4xYJY6W-CR3TazRIHLd6eBOVuigSIxZqP9SmhF6KfenT4YMI4QvPQpAFdlGlzx5CXI9fyjXUg-FUfGdD3ouMLqFZozgfpD/s320/2012+066.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiep7VZpvTgPrUWpri4P5U1uWbt1sQRfcK7c05LkxFhD2FZlWI1LixQOwoPhGaq70XiEz63yqisyIFGdNTCAnSAVtliHXGCKE_YLrVfYWvVkgP3IWNHMgx9A_GUkufg7fkVNMtXqvOZ8fZ3/s1600/2011+057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiep7VZpvTgPrUWpri4P5U1uWbt1sQRfcK7c05LkxFhD2FZlWI1LixQOwoPhGaq70XiEz63yqisyIFGdNTCAnSAVtliHXGCKE_YLrVfYWvVkgP3IWNHMgx9A_GUkufg7fkVNMtXqvOZ8fZ3/s320/2011+057.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO2kLl1TXZh3l8IVn4EhXFpM69fDcox6C0Ze3bdB89jXJP3Ky4sxs1A4gsGnSWwzl89CpCNXtWRbxUM7NjT6Ys3PpAm3-vHNbMQYfWmB7CVE62tVbUas7s6FxO_kXSskS8AhOsBFnocP8F/s1600/11-07-23+%C3%A0+10-32-41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO2kLl1TXZh3l8IVn4EhXFpM69fDcox6C0Ze3bdB89jXJP3Ky4sxs1A4gsGnSWwzl89CpCNXtWRbxUM7NjT6Ys3PpAm3-vHNbMQYfWmB7CVE62tVbUas7s6FxO_kXSskS8AhOsBFnocP8F/s320/11-07-23+%C3%A0+10-32-41.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoG0_ArGUIXWKWhoWkHZ4gLctxfjIL8966xrWhurCpO5AKh8Izg29qaMINNUVO2_CtYw9uKhaUoyLmEuk2kj6kU4o_WyvWox3CqwAeJxppKZiJSnwYz32-H25cAdEia-omj-6Zy7fF8bXY/s1600/2012+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoG0_ArGUIXWKWhoWkHZ4gLctxfjIL8966xrWhurCpO5AKh8Izg29qaMINNUVO2_CtYw9uKhaUoyLmEuk2kj6kU4o_WyvWox3CqwAeJxppKZiJSnwYz32-H25cAdEia-omj-6Zy7fF8bXY/s320/2012+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9RFPeDDwhCrOsiDLo0ZIn2hpkwYtljR2NGnj5w17dq3BKLwAb1u1Zq9JHWwA8khMUU6w9CA9oIRf2XGXfPQACseHiDmFlaLPD_DYw7joIFH9uoKH5mFYmDmc8L8mB3cBsJCFFddxd_J27/s1600/2012+089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9RFPeDDwhCrOsiDLo0ZIn2hpkwYtljR2NGnj5w17dq3BKLwAb1u1Zq9JHWwA8khMUU6w9CA9oIRf2XGXfPQACseHiDmFlaLPD_DYw7joIFH9uoKH5mFYmDmc8L8mB3cBsJCFFddxd_J27/s320/2012+089.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDp8htHjx5faSqAFChkXVPwB1ISMLhHhAmWQt8_3AT_ZpGEgWqA94kNAflAnKJYrezhI8yftw_LmbN4fb4uuFdTleKldWqO0PMD0twEeaQVhUXnFpcfkgq8DjALtN02gtrLyQD_BMKZ4n/s1600/003+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDp8htHjx5faSqAFChkXVPwB1ISMLhHhAmWQt8_3AT_ZpGEgWqA94kNAflAnKJYrezhI8yftw_LmbN4fb4uuFdTleKldWqO0PMD0twEeaQVhUXnFpcfkgq8DjALtN02gtrLyQD_BMKZ4n/s320/003+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-81559234685452246512013-06-24T16:18:00.002-07:002013-06-24T17:12:03.915-07:00Week 33: May 15, 2013 (Day 225)<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 33:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. May 15, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 225:</span>
<span style="color: #0070c0;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Deltaville to Ottawa!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sun & blue sky to increasing cloud closer
to Ottawa, cool & increasing wind <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A 0300 hrs. rise for me at
least & a nice shower to wash away the morning cobwebs. I had to wake Graeme near 0400 hrs. The water tanks were completely drained, the
blinds & curtains tightly closed & the fridge & freezer lid &
toilet seat over left up. We drove away
at 0450 hrs & drove the 13 hour drive back to Ottawa, switching up every
2-1/2- 3 hrs. No problems at the border
& arrived at Mom’s at 1840 hrs. to a good supper with my aunt & uncle
from PEI. It felt good to be home!</span><br />
<br /><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPX-PmFhPZPHw9WUntuWQ9puMIP8mMSYogCswkTNyp_sVqA4DaLfWD6glgCpiiQvBLzSuLPCDCuouj4cuh2P2dd833bXAYcl6y8Ye_gF4Z_5TjJUbK1iZDILE4aHSGzFVHpbe9lpzG9Df/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPX-PmFhPZPHw9WUntuWQ9puMIP8mMSYogCswkTNyp_sVqA4DaLfWD6glgCpiiQvBLzSuLPCDCuouj4cuh2P2dd833bXAYcl6y8Ye_gF4Z_5TjJUbK1iZDILE4aHSGzFVHpbe9lpzG9Df/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Home Sweet Home!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<br /><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-65401403582752329442013-05-09T15:45:00.001-07:002013-06-24T16:46:02.943-07:00Week 32: May 8- 14, 2014 (Day 218-224):<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 32:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. May 8, 2013— <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 218:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Goat Island (Mile 43) to Waterside Marina,
Norfolk (Mile 0)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0600 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1530 hrs. <i>Distance: </i> 43 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> undeterminable in protected Dismal Swamp
Canal, S in Norfolk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mix of sun & cloud, then dark clouds
& rain late afternoon, cool in am but pleasant in pm<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqWdTVSbzrLo27PJB95OclgqUy4foZV_ScGg1Yzd4R_1QXVY0E-8P7okUjohDUZEZihLXARYmSwjUhT_Rr7D7L34GRdUTWCPwD5c17IQ23Kf5QeqplKqpCOUjsabh8fKIkT5OrhDWttZz/s1600/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqWdTVSbzrLo27PJB95OclgqUy4foZV_ScGg1Yzd4R_1QXVY0E-8P7okUjohDUZEZihLXARYmSwjUhT_Rr7D7L34GRdUTWCPwD5c17IQ23Kf5QeqplKqpCOUjsabh8fKIkT5OrhDWttZz/s320/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Goat Island at Dawn</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc_5GpnJjvk_ypE4JMnps1L1lobVXGWn5HL2o9TnceAWrPL_Ia7WeJNVcVDXceNgEku0UahbvFLJFoQiNX9z1hIwiArMdTgeYIPTwgI2qHm0I1cGdtEXYmW2bElJFbPYFFRISYN_lbUFzg/s1600/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc_5GpnJjvk_ypE4JMnps1L1lobVXGWn5HL2o9TnceAWrPL_Ia7WeJNVcVDXceNgEku0UahbvFLJFoQiNX9z1hIwiArMdTgeYIPTwgI2qHm0I1cGdtEXYmW2bElJFbPYFFRISYN_lbUFzg/s320/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Along the Pasquotank River After Sunrise</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17qOzj9TRD9LsIH1rf0NH_yDzB0bRt04BnW77cXqnOS7ROTzWKeiRrn7OYDRYPuSLzKbGk2OlO2GqgodGvuYGhjujHYESy7UrQpW89vifG5MO8hSlz2cgyLgU4jqJZVoXAje9soXhuOWt/s1600/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17qOzj9TRD9LsIH1rf0NH_yDzB0bRt04BnW77cXqnOS7ROTzWKeiRrn7OYDRYPuSLzKbGk2OlO2GqgodGvuYGhjujHYESy7UrQpW89vifG5MO8hSlz2cgyLgU4jqJZVoXAje9soXhuOWt/s320/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Dismal Swamp Canal in the Spring</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">No surprises during the
night; the clear skies & stars remained with us. It was so picturesque with glass like clam
water & a beautiful colour to the morning sky. We carried a speed of 6K motoring along our
10.5 mi. route to South Mills Lock for
the 1<sup>st</sup> opening of the day at 0830 hrs.; we were 55 mins. early.
Five northbound boats locked in at 0830 hrs. & locked out at 0905
hrs. We had 3-1/2 hrs. to travel the
21.1 mi. distance past the NC Welcome Center to the Deep Creek Bridge (bascule)
at 1330 hrs. We slowed our boat speed a
few times, taking in the pristine, scenic environment surrounding us; we saw 1
eagle, 5 brown turtles sunning on a log, ducks & birds of course &
gently hit a couple of logs on the canal floor.
With 1 mile before the bridge & an hour remaining, the bridge
tender/lock master hailed us & said he was opening the bridge for 3
southbound sailing boats he had locked through early & would allow any
northbound boats to take advantage of the bridge opening if we desired, but we
would have to wait for the regular schedule time of 1330 hrs. for the lock opening
& could tie up at Elizabeth’s Dock, a 200 ft. wooden dock on the west bank
with 8 ft. water depths just before the lock.
And so we did, then locked in at 1338 hrs. & locked out at 1405
hrs. The lockmaster coached us with the
info that with <30 min. remaining we would have to maintain a minimum of 6K
to make the Gilmerton Bridge (new lift) opening at 1430 hrs. (opens every hour
on the ½ hour). Well, we barely made it
at 7K & the bridge tender was generous with his opening length of time,
even the 2 slower sailboats behind us made it.
Thank you! And the Deep Creek
lockmaster hailed us to say he knew we could do it & how pleased he was for
us all! We followed a tug & barge
along the shipping channel past the naval boats & cranes at a reduced speed
to our turn off at Waterside Marina. We
did it again—making an arrival at the same time as the Loppers Convention; the
marina was jammed with trawlers till Friday, so we were tied up at the one &
only possible spot left, on the bulkhead right at the entrance of the
marina. Once electricity & water
source were hooked up, we got to scrubbing the cockpit from the dodger to the
transom with pinesol, scrub brushes of every size & rags & all the fresh water we wanted X 2-1/2
hrs. when the rain settled in for a
while. That area looked better & the
stench was somewhat better; we will tackle the transom in the morning. Supper at Hooters as it was close by, it was
rain & most importantly was NHL playoffs are under way so an opportunity to
watch. We went from totally perfect
peacefulness last night to the noisy industrial sounds of Norfolk tonight; what
a difference 24 hrs. can make. A cloudy
evening & night with periodic showers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. May 9, 2013— <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 219:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Norfolk (Mile 0)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> W 5-8K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> glorious, beautiful warm sun & few clouds
later in the day only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR5mSkRBDksHOpBhi8y574pg4jZdMpzXzQtMuOb_qrVYJMZfY9BwPSN6KgmxKmTFVnON4UJU8QI5eVvP7Yz_lsbJtN0ary94UP-CkTfyc7bQ082h5RUhZFKNOlq9dFFFCJTWz3emZlni7-/s1600/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR5mSkRBDksHOpBhi8y574pg4jZdMpzXzQtMuOb_qrVYJMZfY9BwPSN6KgmxKmTFVnON4UJU8QI5eVvP7Yz_lsbJtN0ary94UP-CkTfyc7bQ082h5RUhZFKNOlq9dFFFCJTWz3emZlni7-/s320/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+020.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">One of Norfolk's RR Bridges</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_VqSTZI8CpP6ehCuFVz9DAQHueGJ5uMimmb6p1G2_s2E7_hGd_og03xb6HNkFNDGpoF69JleC4GPvqEn3LomvtHZplM6riIgEr5JT7uu3tRROq2BLGlRnTqLz0alHurZl5cg2og4bst2/s1600/N.C.+to+Norfolk%252C+VA+023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_VqSTZI8CpP6ehCuFVz9DAQHueGJ5uMimmb6p1G2_s2E7_hGd_og03xb6HNkFNDGpoF69JleC4GPvqEn3LomvtHZplM6riIgEr5JT7uu3tRROq2BLGlRnTqLz0alHurZl5cg2og4bst2/s320/N.C.+to+Norfolk%252C+VA+023.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Waterside Park</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This was one of those perfect
weather days that is the reason why you do this kind of adventure & say, “wow,
I could do this for the rest of my life”.
I still want to be home more though after all this time. Winds were west & light, not the
predicted SW & light; hope this holds true for our passage tomorrow. Graeme started cleaning the transom before
0700 hrs. while I prepared breakfast, a relaxed one this fine morning. Once the transom was done I spent time doing
the tedious job of cleaning the stern enclosure windows from all the hardened
slim from the flies; 2/3 done in the am & the last 1/3 was done in the
later afternoon. Oh, then lovely long
showers, followed by a pleasant walk up Granby St. X 1-2 mi. to Virginia Beach
Blvd., past Harrison Opera House that was under construction in the Fall, then
back via Monticello through Norfolk Scope (semi pro hockey arena) &
Chrysler Hall to MacArthur Center (shopping mall). Downtown Norfolk looked inviting, beautiful,
clean, green, alive with roses in bloom, irises finishing there blooming,
magnolias in bud waiting to burst, Fall construction completed & a general revitalization
of this entire area! Time for lunch, without
question at Granby St. Pizza for ½ stromboli each + 1 as a takeout. Peter (owner) recognized us immediately &
told us of his wooden kayak building night course & proudly showed
pictures. We returned to the boat &
cleaned the last window panel, but the worse in my estimation & put all the
cleaning supplies away, anticipating an early morning departure. I hope all this cockpit & transom
cleaning will aid in the cleaning required back in Deltaville to but ‘Sweet Chariot
Too’ in good & proper shape for summer storage. Sens were playing Montreal tonight; they lead
the series 3:1 & Graeme insisted in watching our team, so I guess leftovers
wait another night & I get another free meal. The evening weather in this seaport was magnificent </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">& the night was just
as great, calm & stars in the night sky.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZWNexQ7MUiUawfHFOxekNC4UBzoX72s1d2GK76tl61bX9CRUzo6GujOOdy_LKvjpY0uf19MCpkrUfelvq_sYZ9l5dh1kSJRxspuuEomz6S_GKDzHSknxbBr2hMG_PQNtB9W3-TCq2MWl/s1600/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZWNexQ7MUiUawfHFOxekNC4UBzoX72s1d2GK76tl61bX9CRUzo6GujOOdy_LKvjpY0uf19MCpkrUfelvq_sYZ9l5dh1kSJRxspuuEomz6S_GKDzHSknxbBr2hMG_PQNtB9W3-TCq2MWl/s320/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+026.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Norfolk Scope</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">P.S.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We did not jinks the Sens; they won 6:1 &
thus won the series 4 games to 1!!! On to the round 2 of the playoffs! </span></span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZxLyPFNcwijWeg8zI8E-z82tpHVhcgTwCEAYRnIOUq0v6FO37eId40uZZfW9-aM_FOQ7txNcKmQYWrtnSpUWE-F9enyuEEgw-tJecR0Kj444aakSiapSSPYUOMoxQRbd3GTq4DoC0EBu/s1600/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZxLyPFNcwijWeg8zI8E-z82tpHVhcgTwCEAYRnIOUq0v6FO37eId40uZZfW9-aM_FOQ7txNcKmQYWrtnSpUWE-F9enyuEEgw-tJecR0Kj444aakSiapSSPYUOMoxQRbd3GTq4DoC0EBu/s320/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+025.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="color: red;">Utilities Payment Depositor</span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="color: red;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. May 9, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
219:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Norfolk (Mile 0)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> W5-8K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> glorious, beautiful warm sun & few clouds
later in the day only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xt2sur7nLEmN40SSqYOg4W4VBOwm3pIJITXJCk9sicp-FmTCib9-AEPfyGI2mC6Igdq7JFlQ15K53r6W7-9aEgH0-qmjOPgK2n6b8uxrpd1fmt05VnaOSi54nFbaj_q9nwguniHrzDAG/s1600/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xt2sur7nLEmN40SSqYOg4W4VBOwm3pIJITXJCk9sicp-FmTCib9-AEPfyGI2mC6Igdq7JFlQ15K53r6W7-9aEgH0-qmjOPgK2n6b8uxrpd1fmt05VnaOSi54nFbaj_q9nwguniHrzDAG/s320/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+021.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Mr. & Mrs. Tourist at Waterside Boardwalk<br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_s3SwsCRhlJzU8_7j3art94Iz1pOVyiGppRqlzAgB677DbNJoKGhCjMDJGTxhxPQPNy8dfoUDMQZttBmE5Ccdw32dDOtzP743xQLBmLSrpLNK7u3vgytV-1Z2GhsKzHwkO0a26PBi6DJE/s1600/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_s3SwsCRhlJzU8_7j3art94Iz1pOVyiGppRqlzAgB677DbNJoKGhCjMDJGTxhxPQPNy8dfoUDMQZttBmE5Ccdw32dDOtzP743xQLBmLSrpLNK7u3vgytV-1Z2GhsKzHwkO0a26PBi6DJE/s320/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+029.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">LRT in Norfolk</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This was one of those
perfect weather days that is the reason why you do this kind of adventure &
say, “wow, I could do this for the rest of my life”. I still want to be home more though after all
this time. Winds were west & light,
not the predicted SW & light; hope this holds true for our passage
tomorrow. Graeme started cleaning the
transom before 0700 hrs. while I prepared breakfast, a relaxed one this fine
morning. Once the transom was done I
spent time doing the tedious job of cleaning the stern enclosure windows from
all the hardened slim from the flies; 2/3 done in the am & the last 1/3 was
done in the later afternoon. Oh, then
lovely long showers, followed by a pleasant walk up Granby St. X 1-2 mi. to
Virginia Beach Blvd., past Harrison Opera House that was under construction in
the Fall, then back via Monticello through Norfolk Scope (semi pro hockey
arena) & Chrysler Hall to MacArthur Center (shopping mall). Downtown Norfolk looked inviting, beautiful,
clean, green, alive with roses in bloom, irises finishing their blooming,
magnolias in bud waiting to burst, Fall construction completed & a general revitalization
of this entire area! Time for lunch,
without question at Granby St. Pizza for ½ stromboli each + 1 as a
takeout. Peter (owner) recognized us
immediately & told us of his wooden kayak building night course &
proudly showed pictures. We returned to
the boat & cleaned the last window panel, but the worse in my estimation
& put all the cleaning supplies away, anticipating an early morning
departure. I hope all this cockpit &
transom cleaning will aid in the cleaning required back in Deltaville to but
‘Sweet Chariot Too’ in good & proper shape for summer storage. Sens were playing Montreal tonight; they lead
the series 3:1 & Graeme insisted in watching our team, so I guess leftovers
wait another night & I get another free meal! The evening weather in this
seaport was magnificent & the night was just as great, calm & stars in
the night sky. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">P.S. We did not jinks the Sens; they won 6:1 &
thus won the series 4 games to 1!!! On to the round 2 of the playoffs!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. May 10, 2014—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 220:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Norfolk (Mile 0) to Deltaville—Norton’s
Yachts (Mile 152.6)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0558 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1410 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 52.6 SM <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> W to light & variable<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> very sunny, warm & blue skies<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGlNBSQLELITlql30IYLaTQfS8Ak2Ta3kuslMyQeu42FjPvKUbvcdQY5v0VwQYGQV-1fw2hQ_bfhIPdnCLT5UEBdbuX8UwzVWrsApPNnrv7EnRSQ1uYEmvn4OlMZKYas_LmrKgi-hWzJXd/s1600/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGlNBSQLELITlql30IYLaTQfS8Ak2Ta3kuslMyQeu42FjPvKUbvcdQY5v0VwQYGQV-1fw2hQ_bfhIPdnCLT5UEBdbuX8UwzVWrsApPNnrv7EnRSQ1uYEmvn4OlMZKYas_LmrKgi-hWzJXd/s320/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">One of Several Huge Freighter</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SUqMW__c3gPd_A1E3udG_I7yMixtZlL8yG6jQVom96E3v7JF2mveWOHtOzcCUI2WMqMmjPqfXq485oukzirv-hYvOIUDRpQikt8giJ0esVTsx4yLghO-kghuTKLn6MMKnWZW-bKSvn-e/s1600/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SUqMW__c3gPd_A1E3udG_I7yMixtZlL8yG6jQVom96E3v7JF2mveWOHtOzcCUI2WMqMmjPqfXq485oukzirv-hYvOIUDRpQikt8giJ0esVTsx4yLghO-kghuTKLn6MMKnWZW-bKSvn-e/s320/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Thimble Shoal Lighthouse</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The morning alarm came
very early, especially since I didn’t get to bed till midnight. I was surprise I slept so well in
anticipation of one more step closer to home!
It took us 1 hour & 35 min. to reach G1ER marker (Tunnel Bridge)
from the marina, following & passed by the usual huge freighters &
container ships traffic along the Elizabeth River. And at 0815 hrs. we reached Thimble Shoal
Lighthouse. Despite our cleaning efforts,
the cockpit still had a faint offensive odour from those damn May flies. I had hoped that we would see dolphins today,
as we had not seen any for several days, since Beaufort, N.C. And I was not disappointed; my day was made
when we sighted 3-4 frisky ones close by.
A number of trawlers from the Loppers Convention were also on the move
making their way to Dozier’s Regatta Point Marina, several sailboats added to
the lot + 5 large southbound freighters were seen on the horizon. While the winds were blowing from the west at
8K we were able to sail, but then they became light to calm &
variable. The Bay chop was quite calm
with an occasional rolling wave from an unknown source. I actually got my bathing suit on & read
lying on the deck X a couple of hours before my turn at the helm; the last time I’ve done that was in the
Exumas the later part of Feb.! Then Home
Sweet Home, at least for the boat! Seven
months, 32 weeks or 210 days from the date of departure! After fuelling up we moved & tied up to a
long finger slip on the new docks. And
the packing up immediately began; water & fuel jerry cans were removed from
the life lines, 99.9% of my clothes & paraphanalia were packed, all the
charts & guide books except for the Chesapeake + marine catalogues were
packed & moved to the car. Graeme
called Boat US (insurance) to say we were back in the Chesapeake & now qualified
for a refund. A quick shower after supper, then the inventory
was done of the head & port side of the main cabin. It was too late & I was too tired to
continue. We hope the weather holds the
next 2 days so we can get the exterior boat cleaning done, as we are making a
real ambitious effort to depart Mon. to visit friends in Annapolis, then finish
the drive home Tues. I missed the
sunset, but a clear sky & stars tonight with mostly calm SSW winds with
frequent gusts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. May 11, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 221:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Deltaville (Mile 152.6)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> who
cares! N & light<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> heavy clouds, T-storm & rain to start
then a mix of sun & cloud, warm almost humid<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-vikJbNOyDEJwMKH3DkYhR9ZLjZx2uHivbQ7XWXWNIt7KTz6AGmTJmSKifseylZgi86G3guVzebLS6wpSxrWr_l3-ZvNTOVG60W235V0dfb5W7KpR_kSQoLeFayKrBWXfEYRMZkzhOSk/s1600/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-vikJbNOyDEJwMKH3DkYhR9ZLjZx2uHivbQ7XWXWNIt7KTz6AGmTJmSKifseylZgi86G3guVzebLS6wpSxrWr_l3-ZvNTOVG60W235V0dfb5W7KpR_kSQoLeFayKrBWXfEYRMZkzhOSk/s320/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">At Norton's Yacht Sales Yard</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy 50<sup>th</sup>
Birthday Dave!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A warm night & warm
day; naturally, cruising is finished & it is cleaning time! I woke up this morning tired before even
getting out of bed. There was a long
list of work ahead of us. While the
t-storms & rains fell I continued with a thorough inventory of the
starboard side of the main cabin, including washing the storage areas with a
mixture of Clorox, pinesol & water, a time consuming project. The ceilings, walls, shelves & a few
widely used storage compartments below the floor boards were also thoroughly
washed. Graeme worked outdoors cleaning
the stubborn deck stains once the rains stopped, hosed down the carpet runner
& made a few trips into town; The Ships Tailor does not clean canvass. I finally started the laundry at mid
afternoon X 6 hrs., washing our duvet, all the boat curtains & decorative
cushion covers & terry seat covers.
Cloud cover at sunset but gave way to clear skies & some stars for
the night. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. May 12, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 222:</span>
<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Deltaville (Mile 152.6)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> rain followed by a mix of sun & clouds
& fresh temps<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQ7HcT-KiQug1EI879DEtMmn98sPXxatGmfOK_X_PR7Li21y3DNr3Q4TGPm6wyecJiT0-n26jHK1s7fDSNeDBGWkqq0LGVANh7z4yhjVCHB79czE0x8UVDzvGSt140wHGyQtyhxpa7FKM/s1600/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQ7HcT-KiQug1EI879DEtMmn98sPXxatGmfOK_X_PR7Li21y3DNr3Q4TGPm6wyecJiT0-n26jHK1s7fDSNeDBGWkqq0LGVANh7z4yhjVCHB79czE0x8UVDzvGSt140wHGyQtyhxpa7FKM/s320/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Norton's Yacht Sales</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy Mother’s Day!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">I attended the 0900 hrs.
Mass at Church of the Visitation, less than 15 min. drive; so very warm &
friendly! That gave Graeme the
opportunity to start the engine oil change.
Larry called to say they would not be driving up to see us as Lynn was
not felling well. Since it was warm
& fairly sunny I worked on polishing the stainless & somewhat
rearranged the things already packed in the car, while Graeme completed the oil
change. He insisted going to West
Marine, a bad move, as I bought a few more new clothing items, some of which
were on sale. Graeme changed the black
spring-loaded mooring lines to the original mooring lines; in retrieving these
lines from the storage area by the transom, he discovered this area was
inundated with the dead carcasses of May flies.
The area was hosed down which immensely helped with the residual stench. Some clouds at sunset but a red hue patch was
visible. The breeze was light &
fresh from the north.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. May 13, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 223:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Deltaville to Annapolis<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Mainly sunny, few clouds but cool with
increased winds by evening<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMq2O9eEwrtbLRPRBv4fL482tlNnn5nqAwvyh0FpPTLeP65s7_Qqjdb_x2ATS6rv8xTeiZxU6WLHNpbcizoUPO-dFVQm1WVsIiPwkEom4qdWlcaJwsn3-nRj972HDUohWZv37ICH6yIv-/s1600/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMq2O9eEwrtbLRPRBv4fL482tlNnn5nqAwvyh0FpPTLeP65s7_Qqjdb_x2ATS6rv8xTeiZxU6WLHNpbcizoUPO-dFVQm1WVsIiPwkEom4qdWlcaJwsn3-nRj972HDUohWZv37ICH6yIv-/s320/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">The Buckleys</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Graeme started the morning
with an early meeting with Ian, the service manager for Norton’s, with a list
of things that need attention, repairs, etc. which I’m sure will add up to an
expensive bill. Remember how I started
this blog way back in October 2012-- a definition of a sailboat is a hole in
the water, surrounded by fiberglass, that you throw money into! He also brought the side & back enclosure
panels to UK Sails for cleaning ($7.00/ lb.); the bimini & dodger will have
to be done at a later time + all will need to be waterproofed with 303. In the meantime I prepared the supper that we
were providing tonight with our friends in Annapolis. After a pleasant 3 hrs. drive we spent an
enjoyable evening catching on each others’ news & even a boat tour of some
of the other creeks we were not familiar with off the South River. A cool windy evening & night, but a
wonderful sleep in a real bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. May 14, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 224:</span></span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Annapolis to Deltaville <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy, cool & few showers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOcHsLLX8estZN_xgv5oWpZS1Ka1oBQIQ4OD6kygeXc-ij1bH4OWpZAs4KDXyZAvEXpJ_w91gcN78wuDlxqNucMX2DBzGVuWr8wSeyTk1NpEF8yj6xDBqBYCvXOo0pp_ME3Vl_xKeUHZr/s1600/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOcHsLLX8estZN_xgv5oWpZS1Ka1oBQIQ4OD6kygeXc-ij1bH4OWpZAs4KDXyZAvEXpJ_w91gcN78wuDlxqNucMX2DBzGVuWr8wSeyTk1NpEF8yj6xDBqBYCvXOo0pp_ME3Vl_xKeUHZr/s320/Norfolk+to+Deltaville+006.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Home Sweet Home!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Charlie cooked us a great
breakfast before we said our goodbyes, wishing all a great summer, then went
our separate ways, arriving back at the boat at noon. Yup, we feel we can finish the major remaining
projects & be off tomorrow & before the upcoming long weekend both in
Canada & the US. Graeme purchased
& delivered his gifts of beer & rum to the service & office
departments respectively. I thoroughly
scrubbed the shower & head, V-berth & aft cabin ceilings, walls,
shelves with Clorox & pinesol + defrosted & emptied the freezer &
fridge & we both finished packing the car—not a hole to spare. Departure is now unavoidable &
inevitable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Although tired we enjoyed
a pizza dinner & thought of our Sens playing their 1<sup>st</sup> game
against Pittsburg Penquins in Round II of the hockey playoffs; Sens lost. The alarm was set for a very early morning
start.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-27673776628517101942013-05-03T11:49:00.002-07:002013-06-09T18:11:24.799-07:00Week 31: May 1-7, 2013 (Day 211-217)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 31:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. May 1, 2013— <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 211:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Mile Hammock (Mile 244.5) to Beaufort, N.C.
(Mile 202.3)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0600 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1340 hrs.
<i>Distance:</i> 42.2 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE 10-20K, gusty & at times howling<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> clouds, sun & blue sky & white fluffy
clouds X few hrs. then back to dark clouds & drizzle rain at Moorhead City
on<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwG7xuxSZMkEvW_NaJ59RH2XS_PNtBzPlaT12AvOoMMalY4hsOgs8mENnBaWAY1QJmmS7b1KIzeqcW3dHUhut9Mh-EWEXi0oazCjsRuXIRxcI-LXC5DIQhoRlDchF_xwLVRVIPb6SsDeE/s1600/Beaufort,+N.C+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwG7xuxSZMkEvW_NaJ59RH2XS_PNtBzPlaT12AvOoMMalY4hsOgs8mENnBaWAY1QJmmS7b1KIzeqcW3dHUhut9Mh-EWEXi0oazCjsRuXIRxcI-LXC5DIQhoRlDchF_xwLVRVIPb6SsDeE/s320/Beaufort,+N.C+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Fishing Boat at Beaufort Bridge</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The military were already
out at 0530 hrs. in their inflatable setting an underwater course for their
divers, beginning & end marked by illuminated floating balls. Three of us left the anchorage after 1<sup>st</sup>
light; thick, black, stinky mud on the anchor.
We had an on request opening of the Onslow Swing Bridge at 0640 hrs.,
before it started it’s hourly opening from 0700 to 1900 hrs. On a rising/flood tide shortly after 0700
hrs. we still saw decent depths passing by Brown’s Inlet, Bear Creek Inlet & the many tributaries off the Bogue
Inlet, especially after Swansboro; a boat had gone aground at G45B at Bogue
Inlet but with a rising tide & fast flowing current he got himself
off. We entered Bogue Sound at R42 &
R42A & ran the almost straight, boring run to Moorhead City X 20miles. Mid morning the NE winds increased to 18-20K,
we unfurled some jenny & it was useful for a majority of this run that was
totally against current; when the wind gusted up, it shifted more to the north
& the jenny luffed & when the wind lightened, it shifted more to the
east & the jenny was happy. Once in
the turning basin of Morehead City, we left the ICW & followed Morehead City
Channel & departed it at G1BH. We
caught the flooding tide to Beaufort & caught the 1330 hrs. opening of
Beaufort Bridge (bascule) & anchored in Town Creek by entering the very
small & tight anchorage between ICW G15 & Town Creek G1 marker. A couple of docks & mooring balls in the
anchorage now that crowds one’s anchoring possibilities. “Fish Tails” restaurant is now closed, 1 dock
destroyed in Hurricane Irene was still not repaired & the fuel dock looks like
it needs some attention; is Town Creek Marina showing signs of difficulty? On & off drizzle & dark clouds the
rest of the afternoon, evening & night, with winds piping up now &
again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. May 2, 2014— <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
212:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Beaufort (Mile 202.3)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> N to NE calm, increasing to 10-22K especially
with gusts that came in short bursts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> grey, damp & dreary, cloud with drizzly
rain, improved in late afternoon to sun & blue sky<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuX0L0Tj5ozYbJaO6ebpEUWW-lx7xXx0j3rg-tnYHs9_MQO9e6nkOx_UMNIY7BRFofXnH7wsZvek8GvaLkLzxgrmbOGIdrv2hZecdGe0qspsOns6jrgsuiJMi3eNG5pMH0xBYRYkrwCqrV/s1600/Beaufort,+N.C+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuX0L0Tj5ozYbJaO6ebpEUWW-lx7xXx0j3rg-tnYHs9_MQO9e6nkOx_UMNIY7BRFofXnH7wsZvek8GvaLkLzxgrmbOGIdrv2hZecdGe0qspsOns6jrgsuiJMi3eNG5pMH0xBYRYkrwCqrV/s320/Beaufort,+N.C+003.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Boat Building Shop </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A dreary morning for sure
& no hurry to get anywhere. A boat
shower that felt good, then we went to the marina so Graeme could refill 3
jerry cans with diesel & I took the opportunity to charge my computer while
checking emails. A very fine drizzly
rain continued to fall most of the am, but the wind was calm as we took the
dinghy under the Beaufort Bridge, around the waterfront of Beaufort & tied
up at the public dock. We then walked
Front St. A boatshow & a boat
building contest in a restricted period of time followed by that boat been
raced were the main events for Sat. May 4.
We had lunch outside but under cover at “Finz”, then visited the boat
building shop (part of the museum) open to the public, followed by a quick tour
at the museum (free admission). Shopping
is not my thing as I prefer to walk the side streets & observe the
surroundings which I have done in the past.
Palms are now very few & far between, water is not like chocolate
milk but cleaner looking, although one can’t see their chain & anchor after
a few feet when anchoring, unlike the Bahamas & the bottom is now thick,
black, sticky, stinky mud, not the sand or sandy mud with seashells. Returning to Florida we started hearing the
sound of krill at night eating at growth
on the hull; here in Beaufort, N.C. I
have not heard that sound—too cold for them as well & I have slept like a
baby the minute my head hits the pillow till morning. As we were dinghying home we saw the
‘Twomorrows” slowly making their way to the 1530 hr. opening of the Beaufort
Bridge. The bridge in fact broke down
afterwards for several hours leaving boats to make alternate decisions. We were invited to ‘Twomorrows’ for a lamb
dinner; not just lamb but marinated, BBQ lamb with orzo & baby asparagus,
all done to perfection, followed by Nassau Royale! My I have missed these very fun nights
together! Although the clouds cleared
progressively more during the afternoon, there was no visible sunset, but a
mostly clear dark night with zillions of stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. May 3, 2013— <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 213:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Beaufort (Mile 202.3)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE 15K early am, building dramatically &
gusting to 15-25K with frequent 30+K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mix of cloud & sun, cool very strong
breeze & warm sun<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQypPjiKvXnKL_fI2MHuoORXru7jSiGL78FwtT3DFJGmzB6td1X0OMDAeCuMo4MQkoSTaXF7Y7xqoWO4dSEIqR8o5IYqHkhuJJjFRuI5q4gZdL_YLJVhpVeP1eXxfFlPfIWGxZaZSJ5_A/s1600/Beaufort,+N.C+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQypPjiKvXnKL_fI2MHuoORXru7jSiGL78FwtT3DFJGmzB6td1X0OMDAeCuMo4MQkoSTaXF7Y7xqoWO4dSEIqR8o5IYqHkhuJJjFRuI5q4gZdL_YLJVhpVeP1eXxfFlPfIWGxZaZSJ5_A/s320/Beaufort,+N.C+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Sweet Smelling Jasmine just starting to appear</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The NE winds & it’s
strength were a very disappointing element today, preventing us advancing
further north. It was not even feasible
to make the 14.8 SM distance to Cedar Creek off Adams Creek. There were small craft warnings & flood
advisory warnings in place till Saturday night. We are 5 days from homeport
& can’t get there comfortably!!! The NE winds continued to howl, keeping us
cool & have plagued us since April 13<sup>th</sup> & there is no change
in sight till maybe Sunday night. I have
been reading about & planning my exercise program & dreaming to getting
back in shape, losing some weight & getting back to cycling like a strong
athlete when I get back to Ottawa. Bed
linen was changed & the water tanks were topped with the reserve water
jerry cans. ‘Twomorrows’ anchor suddenly
started to drag; they reanchored. Graeme
dinghied me to shore then returned to the boat.
I powerwalked X 1 hrs. to & from Historic Beaufort which is not
really that large an area, but it felt good just getting out & about, sweet
smelling the jasmine periodically that was just starting to bloom. It also gave me time to think about me, my
present situation & state of mind, what I should & am going to do when
I get back home. When I returned Lynn
& Larry had gone. They had dragged
again, tried to reanchor a few more times, then felt best to move north to
Cedar Creek fighting a 30K wind. I
checked emails & posted prose & pictures on my blog while charging my
computer. The marina staff were gracious
& allowed me to use their shower facilities. Back on the boat we lifted the motor &
dinghy. Depending on the winds we prefer
to leave early & anchor with the Morrows at Cedar Creek, situating us close
to the Neuse River & Pamilco Sound, hoping to cross early Sunday morning
before winds increase to much & affect sea state of these 2 large, open
bodies of water. We heard &
communicated with Merrill (Ambition) approaching & departing Beaufort; they
continued across the rough waters of the Neuse River on a beam reach to
Oriental with 30+K NE winds & occasional 40K! A somewhat clouded evening & night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. May 4, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 214:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Beaufort (Mile 202.3) to Cedar Creek (Mile
187.5)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0755 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1115 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 14.8 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> unrelenting NE 15-27K with gusts of +/-30K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cool, cloud & sporadic rain with brief
periods of a sun trying to break through<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The NE winds subsided some
during the night, but it wasn’t long when they made their presence once again
this morning. And another cool, grey
& dreary day with periods of rain.
Boats out in the Neuse River reported 25-30K winds & 2-4 ft. waves;
another no go day. The anchor was well
embedded in thick, black, sticky, stinky mud; it took a long time to clean off
that mud with the deck wash. We fought a
15-27K wind the whole route, mostly on the nose + a current; the tide was
ebbing right from Gallant Cut to Russell Slough Channel, Adams Creek Canal to
Adams Creek into Cedar Creek. This
morning I wore an undershirt, long sleeve T, sweat top, fleece pants & rain
gear. And it was 27 & 24C in Ottawa
the last 2 days!!! We anchored in 8 ft.
with 80-100 ft. chain in protection in Cedar Creek; there was residual mud
& dirt on the chain & I may have missed one of the chain link
markers. A very short travel day, but a
move closer north nevertheless. The sun
tried to break through occasionally & in so doing it raised the temp inside
the cockpit enclosure; this led to a chain of change of clothes, 1<sup>st</sup>
the rain gear was removed & then into shorts & short sleeve T. Heavier clouds & fine misty rain rolled
in, decreasing visibility beyond the anchorage & the clothes were changed back
to warm wear again. Weather & winds
are now not predicted to improve till <u>Tuesday</u>! I am going to scream. I can’t stand this inactivity any longer. My ass is sore from doing nothing but
sitting. I feel trapped like a
prisoner. This is driving me nuts! When I look back we have continually had NE
winds since April 13<sup>th</sup>, but the weather has been unseasonably cool
with mostly a northerly wind since the latter part of February, with only a
very few sporadic days of reprieve—that is 2-1/2 months!!! Enough!!!
No sunset, no stars, no moon; only cool temps, clouds & that damn
howling strong wind!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. May 5, 2013— <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 215:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Cedar Creek (Mile 187.5) to Campbell Creek
(Mile 154.3)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0640 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1310 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 33.2 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> N25-31K, ENE +/-20K by evening <i>Seas:</i> 2-3 ft. occasional 4
ft, ramped to 4-5 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> heavy cloud, light cloud, faint sun breaks
& back to cloud<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5k4V_ABdorQ8jYk7q41dbjBtjz3ll2mmRXva5oiS7TpG-Y7vF9JJoI2p0zSSj6ke_5sxoDv9hqZOx3Rdtt9CXkCKoTBcQZ7kf9mhX7_7R2x-QY8ET_YpNh0fuuF9TBT5xcCLvaVjKKlnG/s1600/Neuse+River,+N.C+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5k4V_ABdorQ8jYk7q41dbjBtjz3ll2mmRXva5oiS7TpG-Y7vF9JJoI2p0zSSj6ke_5sxoDv9hqZOx3Rdtt9CXkCKoTBcQZ7kf9mhX7_7R2x-QY8ET_YpNh0fuuF9TBT5xcCLvaVjKKlnG/s320/Neuse+River,+N.C+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Our Route on the Neuse River & Pamlico Sound</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We listened to NOAA once
again after our early rise & weather, but more importantly the winds were
no better in direction &/or strength; rain was predicted for everyday, even
thunderstorms in a couple of days. The
wind direction was to shift to the east later on but this did not add any advantage
factor when travelling the Neuse River & Pamlico Sound. I was leaning towards giving it a shot,
although not liking the wind strength, but I was told not to complain if it’s
too rough. We bit the bullet & left
with 20-25K north winds (not NE as predicted) & 1-2 ft. waves. We crossed the Neuse River towards Oriental
& headed along that NW side; the winds ramped up to 22-27K & waves to
3-4 ft. We pitched & rolled over
& through some waves but now & again we had some slammers. Frequent water spray & waves were experienced
over the bow, crashing on the deck & up to the dodger + waves 3 feet higher
than our decks came crashing off the starboard & port sides when we smashed
down a wave. Graeme was the one
complaining. He noticed that the
stainless pole the wind generator was fastened to had detached from the base
fitting & only supported by the 2 other supports; he tied the supports to
the pushpit. Graeme compensated for the
sliding down angle by heading the boat well high of the shoal marker at Maw
Point. We were very exposed out at this
shoal marker, winds were consistently 30-31K & waves were 4-5 ft. Our boat speed was a dreadful 3.2-4.5K. By about 1100 hrs. we finally took a wide round turn around the marker towards
Bay River, rolling side to side until we were able to turn further down the Bay
River. Now our boat speed was 6K &
waves were 1 ft. & winds were only 18-20K; more comfortable, but I didn’t
say a word. We re-entered the ICW at
Hobuken Cut & under Hobuken Bridge where the water was calm & the winds
appeared less because of land protection.
Winds finally showed east & it’s true strength out into Goose
Creek. Should we anchor at Campbell
Creek or Eastham Creek? We followed the
private channel markers into Campbell Creek (most of the red markers missing)
& dropped anchor in 8 ft. letting out 100 ft. of chain. ‘Ambition’ was shortly behind. ‘Tomorrows’ stayed another night in Cedar
Creek. Joe Frost phoned & has been
stuck in Hampton X 3 days as the Cheaspeake was safely unnavigable with these
unrelenting, very strong north winds.
Again now sunset, no moon, no stars, only cloud & howling winds. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">M</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>on.
May 6, 2013— <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 216:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Campbell Creek (Mile 154.3) to Alligator
River North—G39 (Mile 101.1)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0710 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1515 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 53.2 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 15-20K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> lots of cloud, fair amount of rain, few
periods of sun & blue sky not in that order <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmkQo4BF7TERItMJmIMB4QFeaA0A7kdGCYxOqAxLgAxOOWVrs_ZqxbLFpfJWxLrBxjfYxuUcxYUbQLYSCSLSu7U8urKV2YoGIZbMrGZrbLczEWG2tPAnF3vMClVf8dDuL7HKKpeN9qizB/s1600/Pamlico+Sound,+N.C+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmkQo4BF7TERItMJmIMB4QFeaA0A7kdGCYxOqAxLgAxOOWVrs_ZqxbLFpfJWxLrBxjfYxuUcxYUbQLYSCSLSu7U8urKV2YoGIZbMrGZrbLczEWG2tPAnF3vMClVf8dDuL7HKKpeN9qizB/s320/Pamlico+Sound,+N.C+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Pamlico River Route</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The ENE winds blew &
howled well into the night; I just don’t know when they settled down because it
was calmer at 0500 hrs. We actually saw
a visible sunrise amongst the clouds with a shower thrown in of course. First problem of the day was encountered
early, which in fact delayed our departure: an invasion of millions if not
billions of may flies, without a word of a lie!
They look like mosquitoes, but fortunately they don’t bite. They <u>totally</u> invaded the cockpit
enclosure; canvass, nav instruments, wheel, seats, cockpit cushions, floor! In some areas they were ¼ inch thick with no
exaggeration. Added to the problem was
most were dead, only their carcasses left, that turned to sticky, gummy, slim
& the smell was offensive, sickening.
Just to operate the chartplotter, to put your hands on the wheel, to
have a place to sit was a monumental task to clean & used an abundance of
precious fresh water & paper towels & rags. We would need a hose, lots of water &
soap & brush. We met a tug &
barge entering Goose Creek as we were exiting.
It was pleasantly warm, sunny with some blue sky for a nice change.
There was a 1 ft. lightly bouncy chop on the Pamlico River. East winds, not the SE that were predicted,
allowed the use of some jenny as we scooted along at 7K, but it was back on the
nose on the Pungo River, the same time the winds piped up to 20K. I spent most of this time washing &
rinsing repeatedly, trying to get a start on cleaning the fly infestation. Then came the boring 22 mile route through
the Alligator River-Pungo River Canal.
Here the skies quickly & increasingly got consumed with dark clouds
from the south & followed soon by repeatedly short lived heavy rains &
20K winds which were more consistent.
Coming out of the canal we experienced recurring heavy rain, high winds
& poor visibility; above the water line it was similar to dense fog, all
grey. We anchored east of G39 towards
but well off the shore in 8-9 ft. laying 100 ft. of chain. More fun begins—Graeme attached the water
hose to our anchor deck wash & we scrubbed & rinsed over & over
again for >1-1/2 hours to get rid of the may fly carcasses; the only problem
was all the rinsing was done with salt water!
I also tackled the flies that escaped to the interior, mostly the
ceilings & windows. Since ‘Ambition’
was not inundated with flies, Merrill suggested it was our Davis anchor light
that Graeme has been hanging in the cockpit since we have lost 2 Davis lights already
from water leaking in & rusting the circuit board that attracted them. Aha, probably that was it! We never want to experience that ever again! Well I guess that is what I get for
complaining about sitting on my ass all day reading & doing suduko! The skies tried to clear but by sunset time
dark clouds had invaded with periodic rain as well as at night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. May 7, 2013— <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 217:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Alligator River North—G39 (Mile 101.1) to
Goat Island, Pasquotank River (Mile 43)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0620hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1450 hrs.
<i> Distance:</i>
58.1 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> light & variable to E15K to S &
variable from 3-10K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> nice warm mix of sun & cloud, showers
& threat of thunderstorm X2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir45I6pJjd-9mqB_FKDlQru1SulCB5mgGnUOoPkxK0Nblb7sPcW6ZX0nNtnF-iLElV-1Uc9eRd0SrDKV5MMOk235RAaWvP4vivgKvH5o9PcPdnrK0r4wG6Tk7x-mTR4jQmxQH6iCL3CJsf/s1600/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir45I6pJjd-9mqB_FKDlQru1SulCB5mgGnUOoPkxK0Nblb7sPcW6ZX0nNtnF-iLElV-1Uc9eRd0SrDKV5MMOk235RAaWvP4vivgKvH5o9PcPdnrK0r4wG6Tk7x-mTR4jQmxQH6iCL3CJsf/s320/N.C.+to+Norfolk,+VA+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Tug & Barge on the Abermarle</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A quiet night, that is no
howling winds, only on & off rain.
The Davis light was tied outside of the enclosure under the solar panels
last night; there were a lot of May flies outside the enclosure but also
residual on the inside from the night before last; the cockpit & side decks
were still snotty in more ways than one & the nauseating putrid smell
persisted. It was warmish & humid
this am when we woke at 1<sup>st</sup> light.
There was only us & 3 trawlers anchored last night & we were the
1<sup>st</sup> to leave. The wind was
light & variable, starting with it on our nose as we made our way to the
Alligator Bridge. The bridge was having
some maintenance work performed which gave us the opportunity to caught up to a
few boats & make their requested opening about 0900 hrs. The wind increased to 15K, stabilized &
blew from the east, which permitted us to sail across the Abermarle Sound on a
beam reach at about 6.7K with 1-2 ft. chop & few 3 footers thrown in
occasionally, dogging numerous lines of crab pots, in the warm sun, until we
turned downwind from the Sound towards the Pasquotank River; more dogging of
numerous crab pots. Now the winds were
on our stern & too light at <5K so of no use. Almost all other boats headed to the Virginia
Cut route. An area of unpleasant looking
clouds with the likelihood of showers & maybe even thunderstorms appeared
in the distance at our stern; will they chase us down the Pasquotank? But they passed us to the north. The Virginia Cut was another location on my
list to see because we had never done it but not to be & I guess it will
remain that way. When we passed a few
boats were in the Elizabeth City free slips & no boats were on the
bulkhead; don’t believe that was the case at the end of the day. The Elizabeth City Bridge (bascule) opened on
request for us at about 1410 hrs.; construction happening immediately south of
the bridge. I had hoped that we might
make the last opening of South Mills Lock & Bridge at 1530 hrs. but not at
this late hour. So Goat Island it
was. There was a sense of total
blissfulness as we continued on along Pasquotank River past Elizabeth
City. Only sights, sounds & smells
of Spring! We anchored in 8-9 ft. water
& 100 ft. chain & were the lone boat here tonight. Diesel from 2 jerry cans were added to the
boat tank, some more hosing of the slim of the May flies on the port side deck,
but the water was clear but too brown in colour to hose any further. Late afternoon the warm sun was quickly
replaced by dark nasty clouds that looked like a thunderstorm was about to
hammer us; S to SE winds blew up rocking the boat, a smattering of rain, then
back to sun & fluffy clouds. A new
phenomenon tonight—clear sky & stars! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span>Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-11937461822262006022013-04-24T18:15:00.000-07:002013-05-03T18:37:42.481-07:00Week 30: Apr. 24-30, 2013 (Day 204- 210)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 30:
</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Apr. 24, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 204:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Church Creek (Mile 488.2) to Charleston
Maritime Center (Mile 464.1) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0705 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1115 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 42.1 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> calm, NE shifting to S to SSW by evening
& calm at night<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> low lying fog over the water & marsh grasses,
clear & sunny, thick fog then clear & sunny once again <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AlHLq269651Z6k6oXz2dFTZVoKuiS8gcSWcRqA3OE1XOulegHsqlGEe0iT8KUspIWgRRHqf51OJjlKUKi8J6x7op3FnegfSrAT7kjowRq9RFdNyTjAkGzPxBQd6Y01WwSsJbTi-YxfVS/s1600/Charleston,+S.C+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AlHLq269651Z6k6oXz2dFTZVoKuiS8gcSWcRqA3OE1XOulegHsqlGEe0iT8KUspIWgRRHqf51OJjlKUKi8J6x7op3FnegfSrAT7kjowRq9RFdNyTjAkGzPxBQd6Y01WwSsJbTi-YxfVS/s320/Charleston,+S.C+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Sunrise in Church Creek</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivK7djUMEEvX5C-qhQPV0qrHNMCuAVhV9LFmtDZrwXbYqS3DAPx15bLT9lfxuemY4roITew9qmvQ1lA0X7TnD9Fk5HOzuOyHcw2iui1-4LvGTG9zO3QFsFCDjwmJcwV9b6v7HrBIAumE-Q/s1600/Charleston,+S.C+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivK7djUMEEvX5C-qhQPV0qrHNMCuAVhV9LFmtDZrwXbYqS3DAPx15bLT9lfxuemY4roITew9qmvQ1lA0X7TnD9Fk5HOzuOyHcw2iui1-4LvGTG9zO3QFsFCDjwmJcwV9b6v7HrBIAumE-Q/s320/Charleston,+S.C+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Mist over the water </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mist hung over the water
& saltwater marsh grasses at sunrise; most picturesque! The water surface was calm last night & a
mirror this morning. Moisture+++ clung
to the windows; at departure time we had to roll the side & front windows
up in order to see. Also a very
picturesque view until 1-2 mi. from Church Creek; the fog became more intense,
thick+++ for a few miles. Graeme had to maneuver the boat via the
chartplotter alone under reduced speed. It
then quickly thinned & the brilliant sunshine & cloudless sky was upon
us. We left on a rising tide, against current
& at R20 the tide reversed & now we were with the current. Our timing was good as maximum tide at Stono
River & Elliott Cut was at 0810 hrs. & we entered the cut at 0941 hrs.
on a falling tide, which runs to Charleston Harbor, therefore we ran the cut
with the current at a speed of 8.8K & through at 0944 hrs. (3 minutes!). The Wappoo Creek Bridge (bascule) opening was
at 1000 hrs. Against current we ran the
Ashley River, turning behind a large freighter up the Cooper River in the
shipping lane. At the appropriate time
& after passing the entrance a short distance, Graeme turned into the
Charleston Maritime Center Marina, having to be very careful to avoid clipping
the bowsprit of a Swedish tallship, hanging ½ way into the entrance
channel. Graeme maneuvered well into the
slip & 2 dock hands were available to catch our midship & bow
lines. Lunch, registered at the marina
office & paid for 2 nights & I washed my hair. We now had ½ a day to tour, then a full day
tomorrow. Although the S to SSW breeze
increased, the sun shone & it was warm enough to walk around downtown in
shorts. We started at the Aquarium &
Fort Sumter Museum for their hours of operation (a national park, so Graeme can
use his lifetime pass to tour for free, except for the ferry ride to Fort
Sumter), down Calhoun to King St., to the City Market & an early supper (1730
hrs.--yuks!) Noisy Oyster on E. Bay St. before walking back to the marina &
boat. Clouds started to roll in, but some orangey sky after sunset. Non official full moon visible, few stars but
difficult to see with all the city lights.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImWr04K4bOEWJTed0ZBqnXDTHx1IbZzzBqX2FMnKzQogzHJvfgSRlJPgHbimgcT74ChHohsECBuYkRexkcR3AD30pCv5cPMsPK67XcB78PZsjv_whnrLUTRX2ZOjYBv4EK_cmBhWNJCIh/s1600/Ravenal+Bridge--Charleston,+S.C+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImWr04K4bOEWJTed0ZBqnXDTHx1IbZzzBqX2FMnKzQogzHJvfgSRlJPgHbimgcT74ChHohsECBuYkRexkcR3AD30pCv5cPMsPK67XcB78PZsjv_whnrLUTRX2ZOjYBv4EK_cmBhWNJCIh/s320/Ravenal+Bridge--Charleston,+S.C+027.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Ravenal Bridge</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Apr. 25, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
205:</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Charleston (Mile 464.1)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> very light westerlies till 1615 hrs., then
NNW with thunderstorm 15K X45 min. then calm by further shifting to NE<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> pleasant sunny day till 1500 hrs., then black
skies from the west with rain then lightning & thunder & heavy rains
about 1615 hrs., then clouds & on & off rain<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA1VNY6ACVjjpABAwerfv77h6w2yHGSp6jFLam7snkPtrSgPnAeecCtvjc4WXiapcWXR6c017QX1Dhn06RUcplVY4ExwK8cDmifyhEmv7IRhIaqqFdr43VgKJDVy8KgEk2kUuMb0Vcd3ha/s1600/Charleston,+S.C+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA1VNY6ACVjjpABAwerfv77h6w2yHGSp6jFLam7snkPtrSgPnAeecCtvjc4WXiapcWXR6c017QX1Dhn06RUcplVY4ExwK8cDmifyhEmv7IRhIaqqFdr43VgKJDVy8KgEk2kUuMb0Vcd3ha/s320/Charleston,+S.C+024.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">One of my many photos of wrought iron gates</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtJA_8HP01gSl7LWsdtIzixbLHxLCVdSOUNR5L4W0FWTTS233V8_eaCV4BZ42QXHYK5MtDVwd4YK-5_omAm9d8Y3D6PW9mn4Bx9b1xf_X8i5fl8Fjh7wgogcBVFJc4g-TLPeLVB3VPN02/s1600/Charleston,+S.C+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtJA_8HP01gSl7LWsdtIzixbLHxLCVdSOUNR5L4W0FWTTS233V8_eaCV4BZ42QXHYK5MtDVwd4YK-5_omAm9d8Y3D6PW9mn4Bx9b1xf_X8i5fl8Fjh7wgogcBVFJc4g-TLPeLVB3VPN02/s320/Charleston,+S.C+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Splendid Gardens & Huge Balconies</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: red;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: red;">
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Graeme & I toured most
of the day separately; it was good to have the chance to have our own space. My decision was to tour by bike or walk; I
certainly needed the exercise to start
shedding some added weight. I sure put
in many miles over a total of 4-1/2 walking hours, in & out of main
streets, side streets & lanes in the following areas of historic
Charleston: Ansonborough (Laurens & Anson St.), Downtown (Cumberland,
State, Church, Meeting, Queen St.), South of Broad (East Bay, Church, Meeting,
Longitude Lane, Water, Atlantic, South Battery St.) & Harleston Village (Queen, Broad,
Colonial Lake, Moultrie Park, Barre, Beaufain, Market St.). I saw many designs of infamous Charleston
wrought iron doors, gates & fences & patterns adorned to walls. Typical Charleston homes were of the colonial
& Victorian style with street doors, tall 2 storey narrow homes with long
balconies, some on 1 level & others on 2 levels facing south or west to
catch the prevailing winds on hot summer days, some single homes but many
attached to one another yet separate buildings & different in design &
architecture. Some homes had large yards
& gardens, but many had small manicured, sculpted yards & all with very
rich, new & alive green colours.
Colourful flower boxes adorned homes & even lanes. Colourful flowers were seen in yards &
plantars, as well as flowering trees & shrubs; magnolias were in bud, but I
did saw one full blossom. Charleston is
a place one must visit to take in & appreciate all the sights. Everyone falls in love with Charleston; I
have BIG time. At noon I attended the
St. Philip’s Church Tea Room Luncheon (Apr. 22-26, 2013 at 1130-1400 hrs.)—superb
as always. Graeme & I met at the
south end of City Market & walked the market from west to east when we saw
black rain clouds approaching. A drink
at Molly Darcy on East Bay St. & the 1<sup>st</sup> rain hit. We donned our raincoats when the rain
subsided & walked to Harris Teeter (ground beef, butter & 2
apples). Back at the marina we confirmed
tomorrow morning’s tides & our departure time. The 2<sup>nd</sup> wave of black clouds &
very heavy rains with lightning & thunder arrived with about 15K NNW winds
X 45 min., then calm. On & off rainy
periods followed. A cloudy evening &
partially cloudy night; few stars seen but not the official full moon.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XcOaj2JgXEATAUJ7mf_r16AgFMABXrWikZ-3u9o4_THQ7lujXCZeyCasHNQFO33EZrSZnOTQj9dbFlIrPUSGekgAHebA-VulektlmOmu3sLYhoSlcxKji8rdJfm3A6dp8YTFCN1JRrsb/s1600/Outdoor+Seating+at+St.+Philip's+Luncheon+Charleston,+S.C+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XcOaj2JgXEATAUJ7mf_r16AgFMABXrWikZ-3u9o4_THQ7lujXCZeyCasHNQFO33EZrSZnOTQj9dbFlIrPUSGekgAHebA-VulektlmOmu3sLYhoSlcxKji8rdJfm3A6dp8YTFCN1JRrsb/s200/Outdoor+Seating+at+St.+Philip's+Luncheon+Charleston,+S.C+026.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Outside Seating at St. Philip's Tea Luncheon</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq7azHVJ6EqgjaHkJ0Pe2zfbByIlON9-2cC8FCYAwPMES5jQ7SCBG3stHmzX3U1pzSHhSQ-F1QXbrtzasJyQWP0iuxGKamwxD8FYvank9Wrg_jurO2XEG2iEo5m4b9DCvg0-WTOodP2B7s/s1600/Seagrass+Basket.+City+Market,+Charleston,+S.C+037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq7azHVJ6EqgjaHkJ0Pe2zfbByIlON9-2cC8FCYAwPMES5jQ7SCBG3stHmzX3U1pzSHhSQ-F1QXbrtzasJyQWP0iuxGKamwxD8FYvank9Wrg_jurO2XEG2iEo5m4b9DCvg0-WTOodP2B7s/s200/Seagrass+Basket.+City+Market,+Charleston,+S.C+037.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Seagrass Basket</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="color: lime;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b> </b><i>There are so many more photos I have & would like to add to my </i></span></span><i style="font-size: 12pt;">blog, but there so little space to do so!</i><i style="font-size: 12pt;"> </i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Fri. Apr. 26, 2013—</b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-weight: bold;">Day
206:</span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Charleston (Mile 464.1) to Minim Creek (Mile
415.4)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0810 hrs. <i>Arrival: </i> 1720 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 48.7 SM<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE 8K, quickly increased to 15-20K with 25K
gusts, consistent 20-25K & E+/-15K at evening<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy & semi cool start, then quickly
wall to wall sun & very blue sky<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJBFvGMDFbUlrwsmfvYjP8FwKUeGYvx_pCRZ_lVPe29W3inT7SDx9NGgs0DrQvq77CezyRDAEoVPJPsGWb04f2o_fgEegDIKy9hp3f9oeJDJFg01vBn26t1nLKGKs0Ews1M-PYOqL9GM3/s1600/South+Carolina+ICW+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJBFvGMDFbUlrwsmfvYjP8FwKUeGYvx_pCRZ_lVPe29W3inT7SDx9NGgs0DrQvq77CezyRDAEoVPJPsGWb04f2o_fgEegDIKy9hp3f9oeJDJFg01vBn26t1nLKGKs0Ews1M-PYOqL9GM3/s320/South+Carolina+ICW+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Low Tide Nearing McCellanville</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It was stand in line for a
shower this morning even at 0700 hrs.
Jeff assisted us off the dock with ease at fairly slack high tide (high
tide= 0853 hrs.). Less than one hour to
high tide we pushed against tide the 1.9 mi. to Ben Sawyer (bascule) Bridge;
once vehicular traffic was cleared we made a requested opening & passed
through at 0918 hrs. Oh, did I mention
that the wind was on our nose? All
day!!! And to boot the winds increased
significantly + against a falling tide, at full moon time, which means higher
highs & more importantly lower lows.
No problems were encountered with the depths through Isle of Palm &
Awendaw Creek area, BUT approaching McCellanville at 1400 hrs. (6 hrs. post
Charleston), 1-1/2 hrs. before max. low tide, we experienced very, very low
water of 5’5” to 6 ft. at G39 & G37 to G35A & 4’8” to 5 ft. at G35A to
G35; we didn’t touch but how can that be when we draw 4’11” empty! I drove a lot today, but glad that Graeme did
that stretch as I would have freaked.
The seesaw effect with our speed was apparent today depending on the
direction of the water flow from it’s source on a falling tide; very
infrequently we were on the “saw” side & did not have any push + a more or
less 20K wind also against us & some whitecapped chop. The wind & current were so strong that
many of the fish traps had a hard time to stay above water. We saw dolphins early in the morning in
Charleston & maybe one alligator swimming in the water of the Cape Romain
Wildlife National Reserve, some birds diving for fish but that was all. So all in all it was a nerve racking &
frustrating day. We anchored on a rising
low tide in the east Minim Creek in 8 ft. water with 80 ft. of chain with still
a brilliant sun shining & blue sky & a cool +/-15K east wind, which
continued to lie down at sunset. Four
boats here tonight. A cloud suddenly
appeared & across the setting sun. A
pitch dark night, stars & a later rising fullish moon. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Apr. 27, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 207:
<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Minim Creek (Mile 415.4) to Osprey Marina,
Myrtle Beach (Mile 373.5)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0705 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1305 hrs.
<i>Distance:</i> 41.9 SM</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> mostly ENE to E 8-15K</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> light cloud cover at the start, soon sun
& cloud mix, then full sun & blue skies early afternoon before a line
of clouds rolled in from the west<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2Nq_ixfnhB3izXPTABZmZZJfxzDRNIJnGT0rW6u9DR-dWJAg289YWbIyBc6ljuzTQfSlLsPSfwvQ7CI-h3IAk5ATfmpMeTAWdNYLdiNDxmXfUzKi9zkyU4h2Qv0rBQ0A0l_JLRPsNyBS/s1600/South+Carolina+ICW+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2Nq_ixfnhB3izXPTABZmZZJfxzDRNIJnGT0rW6u9DR-dWJAg289YWbIyBc6ljuzTQfSlLsPSfwvQ7CI-h3IAk5ATfmpMeTAWdNYLdiNDxmXfUzKi9zkyU4h2Qv0rBQ0A0l_JLRPsNyBS/s320/South+Carolina+ICW+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Barge & Tug in the Waccamaw River</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj35ItLkNTZ-pzOL4EijTp61eUeq9sodvHdlsjkz_ErDmn0r5H8_3bl-kRsblpg5JLXc0ECNlTO8hSu9cRkzoTS4vXYmi472mHhjiNLlh0GkUhbvv0Da4rFwU8SDcrSB8rwipyg7ngbrzl0/s1600/South+Carolina+ICW+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj35ItLkNTZ-pzOL4EijTp61eUeq9sodvHdlsjkz_ErDmn0r5H8_3bl-kRsblpg5JLXc0ECNlTO8hSu9cRkzoTS4vXYmi472mHhjiNLlh0GkUhbvv0Da4rFwU8SDcrSB8rwipyg7ngbrzl0/s320/South+Carolina+ICW+009.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Turtles in Osprey Marina & throughtout the Waccamaw </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: red;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: red;">
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Three of the four boats
left one after the other on this calm morning.
We were pushed with the tidal current.
A barge & tug passed the entrance of the creek just in front of all
of us, taking up a majority of the width of the Esterville Minim Creek
Canal. We passed Georgetown at 0840
hrs., still with the current. In fact,
the further north we travelled today, the later high tide was; this meant we
were with the current all day & were able to maintain a boat speed of
6.2-6.7K with low engine RPM’s, & thus made good travelling time. We followed the barge & tug into the
Waccamaw River (Mile 403). This river is
deeply wooded to it’s banks & especially alive with new growth &
vibrant greens in the Spring, one of the most scenic part of all of the ICW
with moss-draped cypress trees, wildflowers & greenery growing in cypress
stumps, brown coffee coloured water & numerous great anchorages filled with
birds & fish. Several boats made a
fuel stop at Osprey Marina, our destination for the night, so we had to slow up
with our arrival time & even tied up at the transient dock till the fuel dock
was clear & our turn in line. Once
our diesel tank was topped with a whopping 9-1/2 gals. compared to 300 gals.
for other boats we moved & tied in our assigned slip (C10). It was early to stop for the day, but this
was one of Graeme’s favourite places; it boasts superb hospitality, great
facilities, very friendly & helpful, the best welcome package of all
marinas & inexpensive. So often
going south you hit certain anchorages & marinas & different favourites
coming north. If I wasn’t so anxious to
get home we would stay in a few anchorages off this wonderful river. Big mileage & some caution shallow areas
tomorrow + rain in the forecast, but we are hoping to reunite with Lynn &
Larry. Clouds at sunset </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">as well as during the
night.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Apr. 28, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
208:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Osprey Marina, Myrtle Beach, S.C. (Mile
373.5) to St. James Marina, Southport, N.C. (Mile 315)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Departure:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 700 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1600 hrs.
<i> Distance:</i> 58.5 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE to E 8K steadily increasing to 10-15K to
18-22K <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> light cloud with few sunny breaks, cool
breeze <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSdBgZ3wTt61sqgP0DWqztyEhYqu751TBa-oatxdyCRrgtJEvyXjGHNad5tINtVaBv0mXIukYOjoPeUen5XDkVVpPtTj-8nFAwRssfePtAc873b9QOEsezyuwIkI1zOLPtyVj0KWgwMl60/s1600/Myrtle+Beach%252C+South+Carolina+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSdBgZ3wTt61sqgP0DWqztyEhYqu751TBa-oatxdyCRrgtJEvyXjGHNad5tINtVaBv0mXIukYOjoPeUen5XDkVVpPtTj-8nFAwRssfePtAc873b9QOEsezyuwIkI1zOLPtyVj0KWgwMl60/s320/Myrtle+Beach%252C+South+Carolina+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Cable Car over ICW at Myrtle Beach Golf Course</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-otlgHUvvvJiAmuCPI9q_oQQUqLE5OojBBP3HUCWU4EoEJ3H-rgs9uWnw1MJfrAX_egbUpH7_fHsZSdD-z3LVQaxzkzc06sHum5dKaN1BzulqNMnyTAUixRAA83FCtpouwxW08VP0s67q/s1600/Little+River+Swing+Bridge%252C+South+Carolina+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-otlgHUvvvJiAmuCPI9q_oQQUqLE5OojBBP3HUCWU4EoEJ3H-rgs9uWnw1MJfrAX_egbUpH7_fHsZSdD-z3LVQaxzkzc06sHum5dKaN1BzulqNMnyTAUixRAA83FCtpouwxW08VP0s67q/s320/Little+River+Swing+Bridge%252C+South+Carolina+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Little River Swing Bridge</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhZ0n74oFWh-BvPoPMwp7ChvbyHQopMagCtnj_ssGHohsHNTJLcRKtJaS7IUeJjtcbBDfcTmL7pxt9nkTautyPKgMip657kdIZXZZDp8AYRblacGKednrGvBd6fpweRWsv31gvWzq-p9a/s1600/South+Carolina+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhZ0n74oFWh-BvPoPMwp7ChvbyHQopMagCtnj_ssGHohsHNTJLcRKtJaS7IUeJjtcbBDfcTmL7pxt9nkTautyPKgMip657kdIZXZZDp8AYRblacGKednrGvBd6fpweRWsv31gvWzq-p9a/s320/South+Carolina+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Only in the South!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A great shower with a
powerful shower head last night & again this early am. It was calm as usual in this protected marina,
so we were off the dock easily by ourselves before the marina opened at 0800
hrs. A few boats were already in the ICW
when we departed. We carried the current
in our favour at about 6.5K until Grand Dunes where the current reversed. We caught the Socastee Swing Bridge (Mile
370.9) opening at 0730 hrs. & the Barefoot Landing Swing Bridge (Mile
354.3) opening at 1000 hrs. Through the Rockpile (Mile 353 to 349) at 1015 hrs. we saw depths
of 13-15 ft. And finally, we passed the
Little River Swing Bridge at 1109 hrs.
We left South Caroline shortly after Calabash River & Little River
Inlet at 1155 hrs. & entered North Carolina against current. Passing through Shallotte Inlet at 1340 hrs.
was no problem with depths, but our speed dropped from 7.7K to 3.6K. Yes, of course the wind was on our nose &
a hindrance when it reached strengths of 18-22K & one travels in an
easterly direction from northern South Carolina coastline into North Carolina
as well. There was a lot of Sunday
recreational waterway traffic ie powerboats+++ & seadoos, almost as bad as
Florida on a weekend, just as disrespectful of other boats by not announcing
themselves when passing & especially disrespectful of the environment with
their wake; the only difference was the boats were just not as big as in
Florida. I tried to read sitting on the
combing & lying on the deck but it was just too damn cold. And finally the last challenge of the day was
through Lockwoods Folly at 1510 hrs. 1-1/2 hrs. before low tide; lots of
chatter on the VHF with reports coming as boats passed. I stayed to the green side of midline, on the
magenta line of the chartplotter & saw 7.4 to 8.8 ft. As like the other inlets, there was
turbulence you needed to steer with. I
seemed to be driving through all the caution areas today. Mike & Larry assisted to tying us up at
dockside (D10), but Graeme did another good boat maneuvering. Then hellos, a drink, snacks & enjoyable
conversation on ‘Twomorrows’. Last
minute decision was to throw in a load of laundry on while we had dinner at the
restaurant; 1 washer & 1 dryer $1.00 each.
A clouded evening with rain threatening & a clouded night sky. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Mon. Apr. 29, 2013-- <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
209:</span> <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> St. James Marina (Mile 315) to Banks Channel,
Wrightsville (Mile 283.2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Departure:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0920 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1400 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 31.8 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE <10K, S <10K only in evening<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> heavy cloud then rain+++ till noon, few sunny
periods mid afternoon & back to rain<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbH0Mzd8h0ZxkxQP2jeWq6YJ-TPphT4ygP7WXTiEqO4nzpNdDU9PucGUrQVj1ngJpkmobi217v5wJX0MJtSRPb3bziEAkdpsiF5M6v7uv-6GtbTIG53oFyBl6nsvVOB202VXLAPeXXMnZ9/s1600/Cape+Fear+River,+North+Carolina+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbH0Mzd8h0ZxkxQP2jeWq6YJ-TPphT4ygP7WXTiEqO4nzpNdDU9PucGUrQVj1ngJpkmobi217v5wJX0MJtSRPb3bziEAkdpsiF5M6v7uv-6GtbTIG53oFyBl6nsvVOB202VXLAPeXXMnZ9/s320/Cape+Fear+River,+North+Carolina+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">When we could see this Fishing Boat & free food for Pelicans</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDG2SJvw2RDrTknkNAA9ODyrikNBcsPSi5eCm_d-MRI2cDxRYoCoJRG91NkpKZVVxGkHgErGsxMDpmTdgT7hDO6KNNXzyCIwrJA3Sh4Hv165cnSmtbyuWKB6bcmHx8dWOYCJ6zn0FBCxSK/s1600/Carolina+Beach,+North+Carolina+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDG2SJvw2RDrTknkNAA9ODyrikNBcsPSi5eCm_d-MRI2cDxRYoCoJRG91NkpKZVVxGkHgErGsxMDpmTdgT7hDO6KNNXzyCIwrJA3Sh4Hv165cnSmtbyuWKB6bcmHx8dWOYCJ6zn0FBCxSK/s320/Carolina+Beach,+North+Carolina+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Carolina Beach</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Due to heavy rains this am
the decision was whether to part or not & also in keeping with the most
favourable passage method of the Cape Fear River; Skipper Bog suggests leaving
Southport 1 hr. before high tide is most advantageous & we were 1 hr. from
Southport. We listened to NOAA,
conferred with Lynn & her weather sources & let one wave of heavy rain
pass before making our final decision.
There was nothing to do here, nothing close by, Lynn & Larry were
going with friends from Wilmington for the day & the rain had let up; we
were going. We were assisted off the
dock by marina staff & eased out of the slip. Soon afterwards in the ICW black clouds to
the NW were very evident, heavy rains commenced again & much to our dismay
there was lightning & thunder; do we continue or turn back??? We set up a fan to circulate air on the front
dodger window to keep it somewhat clear.
At 1030 hrs. we arrived at Southport & entered the Cape Fear
River. It was raining so heavily at this
point we could only see approximately ¼ mile ahead; it was just like thick
fog. Suddenly we saw stationary tugs
with boom-like apparatus attached on starboard then on port, but at first
glance were they on the move or not? We
picked up the shipping channel, announced our presence to concerned traffic
& picked our way from one channel marker to the other with heavy assistance
from the chartplotter. Our boat speed
was 8K with the flood tide & fortunately the sea state was calm. Just after a picking up the sighting of a
long dock to port (? ferry dock) we saw a moving vessel coming towards us &
thought it was a tug; we hailed the “tug” & the ferry boat announced her
presence; we apologized for our error.
Shortly afterwards the rain eased & stopped & the visibility
improved & we continued picking our way maintaining good speed. Phew!
No ships or freight traffic were encountered, which was most unusual for
this large commercial channel; we only saw a small fishing boat with a large
trailing & following of pelicans for free food. We left the shipping channel at G33 &
re-established ourselves on the ICW to Snows Cut near noontime; we were just
off high tide, so had good depths (16 ft.) through this section. The bridge was under repairs but a non-issue
for our 54 ft. mast. We turned to port
in the ICW that runs parallel to the Carolina Beach Inlet & a notorious
shoaling spot, but not a problem just 1 hr. off high tide. Here the current changed & our speed
dropped until we were nearing & feeling the positive sucking effects of Masonboro
Inlet. Some very dark, very ugly clouds
to the east out to sea, some clearing & blue sky to the NE as well as
south. The light NE winds today were on
our nose; no south winds as predicted until evening time. We left the ICW at G129 & took the deeper
Shinn Creek passage to the Banks Channel anchorage (10 ft. water & 90 ft.
chain). Even though it was stressful
traversing Cape Fear River with restricted visibility, our timing was exact
from marina against current on a rising tide, through Southport & up the
Cape Fear River with the current still on a rising tide & through Snows Cut
with the current 1 hr. after high tide, thus on a high falling tide. An early arrival time, but time to rest the
frazzled nerves. Only 7 boats tonight at this usually popular anchorage. A few sunny periods mid afternoon before more
clouds & fine rain settled in over the late afternoon, evening & night.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Tues. Apr. 30, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
210:</span><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Wrightsville Beach (Mile 283.2) to Mile
Hammock (Mile 244.5)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Departure:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0715 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1450 hrs.
<i>Distance:</i> 38.7 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NNE to NE 8K, increased to 10-15K, then E to
N & calm at sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> clouds with few bright periods & times
when the sun broke through the clouds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1AO4E9tdt-XUlIuLQscJncqYrf4kIvurK9Kez3xBgIsVE4WxFAIXDGfeDOeovhJKH1zAcr4kKYxEXhIVsd_9YukYv4sEEk2_ciq1p6VSx1lR-6u2x-t9MobEZxW095uGmoros0CQXd0mr/s1600/North+Carolina+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1AO4E9tdt-XUlIuLQscJncqYrf4kIvurK9Kez3xBgIsVE4WxFAIXDGfeDOeovhJKH1zAcr4kKYxEXhIVsd_9YukYv4sEEk2_ciq1p6VSx1lR-6u2x-t9MobEZxW095uGmoros0CQXd0mr/s320/North+Carolina+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Clams or Oysters?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiToiWK1tz0Nw7nFNuB25JoUc7WMlaEqR0aIQvTCV1Up9H8MWFIEb20zjp0TLx2r_5LimYDVoV7rMHch6INadDlkyL_n-6pUts0NX1f8l_Ne8CqcF_fDeJn7f-DY3Cgd4WMy1N-RIpyQeBb/s1600/North+Carolina+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiToiWK1tz0Nw7nFNuB25JoUc7WMlaEqR0aIQvTCV1Up9H8MWFIEb20zjp0TLx2r_5LimYDVoV7rMHch6INadDlkyL_n-6pUts0NX1f8l_Ne8CqcF_fDeJn7f-DY3Cgd4WMy1N-RIpyQeBb/s320/North+Carolina+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Mile Hammock</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The last day of another month
(#7). Weather-wise, a 2<sup>nd</sup>
disappointingly cool month with mostly northerly winds, although most days were
sunny ones; yesterday especially & today were the two most cloudiest days
so far on the whole trip. We calculated
yesterday that it would be best to catch the 0800 hrs. opening of Wrightsville
Beach Bridge (bascule) & then hourly openings on the other 2 following
bridges so as to play the tides most effectively; that would gives us an hour
into a rising tide when we upanchored & 1-2 hrs. after high tide when we
would be transiting the New River, a shallow problem area. But we did temporarily went aground ever so
gently on Motts Channel at G25; there must be a hump extending from the docks,
so one must absolutely go directly on a line at G25 marker. After the Wrightsville Beach Bridge at 0800
hrs. we took the hour to do the 5 mile distance to Figure Eight Swing Bridge
& thought 2 to 2-1/2 hrs. to Surf City Swing Bridge like when we were
southbound in the Fall, but we were too late for the 1100 hrs. opening &
passed through at 1200 hrs., which would make us into the 2 hrs. post high tide
time frame for New River. The winds were
directly on our nose, not too much boat traffic & the same Mile action
with boat speed with the many small & larger inlets from the ocean. There were fewer & fewer palm trees the
last few days coming north, but an increasing number of new osprey nests on the
channel markers than further south. As
I’ve been doing the majority of the driving the last few days, I’ve been able
to see the lay of the land & put visual pictures to places I’ve read in the
various cruising guidebooks. We arrived
at the New River Inlet at 1420 hrs. & saw depths of 13-15 ft. except 1 spot
at 72A (10 ft.). We were the 3<sup>rd</sup>
boat in & anchored in 12 ft. water with 80 ft. of chain, but by sunset
there were a total of 13 boats. When
upanchoring this am, I noticed the bowroller was not as it should be (spindle
had come unscrewed); Graeme did some repair while underway & completed the
job after anchoring. About 1715 hrs. a
military dinghy came over to a few of us boats & asked with we would
reanchor slightly more eastward as they were conducting diving maneuvers this
evening. Also we were warned by a boat
that we travelled through all the bridges today that the Onslow Bridge was
closed down for a couple of hours for repairs.
This is the bridge we will need to open within 3.4 mi. tomorrow
morning. Graeme hailed them on the VHF
& the bridge was now operational. We
had quite a display of military maneuvers after sunset, between divers in the
water & repeated twin blade & regular helicopter landings &
take-offs; very noisy way after dark till 2200 hrs.. Clouds were heavy at sunset but somehow the
sun seemed to have found a small break in the cloud & a brilliant red shone
just over the land & through the trees.
A 30 sec. rain shower & a dark night. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
</span></div>
<br />
<br />Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-62248717560017535982013-04-20T08:25:00.003-07:002013-04-27T15:46:09.778-07:00Week 29: Apr. 17-23, 2013 (Day 197-203)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 29:</span></b><b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Apr. 17, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
197:</span></span></b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Wahoo River (Mile 630) to Turner Creek,
Savannah (Mile 585.5)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0755 hrs<i>. Arrival:</i> 1540 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 44.5 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE 8-17K depending on proximity to Sounds
& Inlets, calm at sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> warm sun but cool breeze with clouds to west
& south, clouds at sunset<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbf8FFhvGLcZi3pQ5T3K4ibz1Bg12_NA90AmG2e3GgqcfiFkBappHDmjZXr6B2lOb1GX_T4mXsSYGel3nnntBp-tyFwx0fhWSz2HJYSK7H53fItCtt0yqFMfZ48HKsazHz6lXRVSpKANB/s1600/St.+Simon+Island+042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbf8FFhvGLcZi3pQ5T3K4ibz1Bg12_NA90AmG2e3GgqcfiFkBappHDmjZXr6B2lOb1GX_T4mXsSYGel3nnntBp-tyFwx0fhWSz2HJYSK7H53fItCtt0yqFMfZ48HKsazHz6lXRVSpKANB/s320/St.+Simon+Island+042.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">All the Sounds & Inlets that affect our Tidal Currents</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">A calm & warm
night. A warm bright sun most of the day
but the breeze was cool. In Johnson
Creek we were warned to pass close to markers G131A & G131 for best
depths. Large pods of dolphins were seen
in Johnson Creek & especially North Newport River; in fact one leaped
completely out of the water twice or it was 2 separate leaping dolphins! NE winds increased to 15K in St. Catherines
Sound & we were motoring against an incoming (flood) tide from the inlet
with of course the wind on our nose (speed= +/- 4.5K). We were able to use a little jenny when we
turned down in the Sound away from the Inlet toward Bear River, with a slight
reprieve of the opposing current through Bear River until we exited Florida
Passage into the Ogeechee River. Here
once again the wind was on our nose & we were now experiencing a flood tide
from the Ossabow Sound & Inlet (speed= 4.8 with 12K wind). We hit Hell Gate passage at 1235 hrs., about
2 hrs. before high tide; mostly 13 ft. except 11.3 ft. crossing over the shoal
& 15 ft. exiting to R36. We were now
off the wind as we turned down the Vernon River & set some jenny (speed=
7.0K), then furled the sail as we turned into Burnside Creek. This was another serpentine route, now
through marsh grasses on one side & residential, big expensive homes
onshore. The Skidaway Narrows fixed
Bridge was still under construction but the bascule bridge opened quickly on
request. The tide was still rising as we
left the ICW to cross Wilmington River into Turner Creek; good depths of 12-15
ft. Anchoring was a bit interesting as
the wind was 90 degrees to the incoming (flood) tide. Clouds arrived right at sunset. A few pale & dark pink streaks in the
clouded sky. ¼ moon was visible through
the light night cloud.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgkHQ7tHXOhZ8A30I2G2F4bbO5E8Ada2FWJXIVq0qc_41wzS6b32jB6G5VrbVgSuzZBf8ntznHRw4bKdUaifCWC_WAHg_dT4R4n0TztuNmot2OzSXIXsqPnry0_iAgC0-G05pA7g-2-Msv/s1600/Wahoo+River++043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgkHQ7tHXOhZ8A30I2G2F4bbO5E8Ada2FWJXIVq0qc_41wzS6b32jB6G5VrbVgSuzZBf8ntznHRw4bKdUaifCWC_WAHg_dT4R4n0TztuNmot2OzSXIXsqPnry0_iAgC0-G05pA7g-2-Msv/s320/Wahoo+River++043.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">A Wahoo River, Georgia Sunset</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Apr. 18, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
198:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Turner Creek, Savannah (Mile 585.5)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 5-10K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly sunny & warm once morning clouds
moved off, few clouds in the afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8gTTNMMnaCkyU5LFlPVQI1nM44kKzQfnCM3gAqShkTV6tNGJ8c2561kdAOj5Kf9h390AEgMdViv9sbAcjALyE7GtkK_vdnj2AdWyp5YqNwl9NyZmsvOnqxNbR_25EL8uwjFGuUdFszZP/s1600/Savannah%252C+Georgia+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8gTTNMMnaCkyU5LFlPVQI1nM44kKzQfnCM3gAqShkTV6tNGJ8c2561kdAOj5Kf9h390AEgMdViv9sbAcjALyE7GtkK_vdnj2AdWyp5YqNwl9NyZmsvOnqxNbR_25EL8uwjFGuUdFszZP/s320/Savannah%252C+Georgia+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">In famous Savannah Squares in Spring</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A warm night & also I
must mention that for several weeks now we have experienced condensation &
moisture at night, especially on deck & the enclosure & heavy in the
morning; the enclosure windows required wiping before setting off in the
morning. We dinghied & tied up to
Hogan’s Marina before they open at 0800 hrs.
We walked across from the Publix on Johnny Mercer, were attacked by gnats & caught the CAT
#10 bus at 0830 hrs. (seniors rate--65 yrs.= $0.75 each). The Cat route & schedule for some runs
must have changed on Apr. 8, 2013 according to a posted sign, but that did not
affect us. The morning ride in was most
interesting as the friendly riders usually African American, spoke easily &
freely with us, offering suggestions & a few on entering the bus loudly bid
“good morning all!” The 1 hour bus ride
brought us to downtown Savannah at the corner of Martin Luther King &
Broughton. Graeme & I split up for
the morning to do our own touring & met up at City Market at noon; I walked all the squares I had not done in
the Fall south of Liberty St. including Forsyth Park & Colonial Park Cemetery,
enjoying the architect, the wrought ironworks of the old houses, the greenery
& the flowering shrub bushes in blossom & the roses. The front façade of the Cathedral of St. John
the Baptist was totally behind scaffolding, restoration efforts, as well as the
exterior of Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace building. Graeme seemed to have stuck to the City
Market & River St. We walked along
River St. from City Hall east, lunch at Cotton Exchange on River St. &
afterwards lazily walking under Factors Walk down to & west to
Broughton. Believe it or not I declined
ice cream at Leopolds. We caught the
1530 hrs. #10 bus back to East Savannah.
We picked up a few groceries at Publix & Graeme paid Hogan’s Marina
their $10.00 dinghy fee where we met a pet pig called Lucy. The dinghy & motor were lifted for tomorrow’s
departure. A wonderful sunset as the sun
went below the saltmarsh grasses & a
peachy </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">coloured sky.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A half moon tonight in a mix of clear &
cloudy skies.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Apr. 19, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 199:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Savannah, Georgia (Mile 585.5) to Port Royal
Landing Marina, Beaufort S.C. (Mile 539.6)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0650 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1440 hrs. <i> Distance: </i> 45.9 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S 8-15K in protected rivers & creeks,
15-29K in more open water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy, warm & humid<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5TptLIZzZ1rVA39mAb7VhYebO9xSKP1AYWYeSeman6vzTGebXTfs3xMOIV1jgtrtWaWjygc1DL7gmRLf5bvF97JrQDtldgxz-g3fMdrtWt0HpEdXz-XXyiCOhIXJMU017cTFGVdAcuYQU/s1600/2012-11-4+157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5TptLIZzZ1rVA39mAb7VhYebO9xSKP1AYWYeSeman6vzTGebXTfs3xMOIV1jgtrtWaWjygc1DL7gmRLf5bvF97JrQDtldgxz-g3fMdrtWt0HpEdXz-XXyiCOhIXJMU017cTFGVdAcuYQU/s320/2012-11-4+157.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Dreamy Beaufort, S.C.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The south winds increased
about 0400 hrs., light cloud increased to heavy cloud & the predicted high winds
did materialize in the afternoon. We left
the anchorage early, 2-1/2 hrs. before low tide to make sure we could pass the
shallow entrance without grounding & attempted to make the 0800 hrs.
opening of the Causton Bluff Bridge (bascule), but were 3 min. late & now
had to wait a full hour; the tide was against us from the anchorage into & along
the Wilmington River, then slowly the tide had less of an opposing effect on
our speed as we got closer to the bridge.
But now we were only ¾ hour to maximum low tide & precisely at that
time we crossed the Savannah River & entered Fields Cut, a notorious shallow
area; 5’4” on entering the cut, 11-14 ft. most of the way through with 1 shallow
area midway & 10-12 ft. exiting the cut into the Wright River. The New River had varied but good depths also
with 1 exception. From Ramshorn Creek we
entered Cooper River & partially rolled out the jenny to assist with the
opposing current from the flood waters from Calibogue Inlet & kept our
speed to a respectable 5-6K range by playing the jenny in & out &
jibbing at times around the circuitous route.
When we turned away from the inlet towards Hilton Head, we were with a
favourable pushing tide motorsailing along at 7.0-7.8K down Calibogue Sound,
now with building 1 ft. waves & some whitecaps. We continued to play the jenny as required
through the deep flooding waters of Skull Creek. Out into wide open waters of Beaufort Sound, the
current was opposing, the winds were gusting 15- 29K, the waves were heavily
whitecapped about 2-3 ft. high on our beam & some crashing over the boat. We reefed the jenny as the boat was heeling
with gusts of 25-29K, forcing one to brace themselves when at the helm, until
we could bare off towards Port Royal & Beaufort (pronounced Bewfort) now
with pushing tides. We were assigned a
dock tie up on the inside of the north end of the face dock but between 2 power
boats & that was a problem with the winds, the tides & the current; our
stern nearly side swiped the starboard side of the 1<sup>st</sup> power
boat. I was upset to say the least &
trembling afterwards & really needed that hot shower. Graeme as usual said nothing but busied
himself adding another spring line, attaching electricity (I can’t remember the
last time we were plugged to shore power) & topping the boat’s diesel tank. Chef Larry invited us & Pat & Fred (Marianna-met
2 yrs. ago) over for a wonderful pizza & key lime pie dinner. We had a enjoyable evening finally reuniting
with Lynn & Larry, distracted with lots of conversation while a storm was occurring
outside. There was another tornado &
thunderstorm warning approaching from the west with winds shifting to the north
& bringing cold temperatures. We
were hit with heavy rains & 30+K winds & lightning, rocking boats at
dockside+++ & slamming them against the dock, but it was over in a few
hours. I might add that ‘Marianna’ was
hit by lightning as they were travelling north with ‘Twomorrows’ from Dinner
Key to Ft. Lauderdale in a wicked storm with 22K winds at the beginning of
April; lost their GPS, autohelm, radar, instruments, VHF & refrigeration temporarily
with the exit strike likely out the mast decklight that was blown to
smitherines. Back at the boat I worked
till 0100 hrs. trying to purchase & install my antivirus program soon to
expire, with great difficulty requiring chat line tech help. Fortunately the winds & waves calmed
down. But the forecast is not at all
good Sun. through Tues. Decision time in
the morning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Apr. 20, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 200:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Port Royal Landing Marina (Mile 539.6)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE +/-20K, decreased early afternoon to 5-10K
by sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy & cold! H= 60’ish only & L=
mid 40’s! Thinning clouds early afternoon & sun & clear skies late
afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2JMsCYNXBoV9R1KiHpcQZZlUmz0NYhhzHPuDAW5KbxroRTvJ62f770TXJcpyGfiAZAsxj9NAdCzinjeNM7314NTNr5th1oAEZnDs4vKmSOA3VB3fY8jK_nvQZKSaIdYfbW3B_VV2PiOU/s1600/Beaufort,+S.C+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2JMsCYNXBoV9R1KiHpcQZZlUmz0NYhhzHPuDAW5KbxroRTvJ62f770TXJcpyGfiAZAsxj9NAdCzinjeNM7314NTNr5th1oAEZnDs4vKmSOA3VB3fY8jK_nvQZKSaIdYfbW3B_VV2PiOU/s320/Beaufort,+S.C+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Port Royal Soft Crab Festival</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The rains continued on
& off during the night. By morning heavy
moisture surrounded the windows. Having
gone to bed so late, I was feeling very tired & not wanting to get up. ‘Twomorrows’, ‘Marianna’ & ourselves had
a conference talk on the VHF at 0730hrs. & all unanimously agreed they were
staying another night; in fact Lynn & Larry & ourselves decided to stay
2 nights as Sundays weather is dreadful (stay 2 nights, get 3<sup>rd</sup>
night free). Cloudy, cold, windy just
plain miserable; certainly not the weather you would expect at this time of
year at this latitude. But I made <u>real</u>
toast with a <u>toaster</u> this morning!
I had intentions of baking muffins or cinnamon rolls which would help
warm the interior up, but my morning was occupied still trying to install the
antivirus program on our 2 other laptops (2 of 3 successful) & edit my
password for my account; hours on chat line with tech help. Graeme worked at washing the enclosure
windows, cockpit floor & cushions with FRESH water & added water to one
of the boat tanks. Early afternoon we used the courtesy vehicle to visit Port
Royal’s Soft Crab Festival; booths of crafts, jewellery, T-shirts , food &
beverages & even vintage cars.
Quickly we drove to historic downtown Beaufort for a oil print Graeme
had seen in the Fall of a shrimp boat in saltwater marsh grasses at Fordham
Market, a converted hardware store into multi consignment craft units. Late afternoon Graeme worked on his >200
emails, while I updated my blog & added pictures. The sun appeared as the sky cleared totally a
few hours before sunset. We had a social
hour at ‘Twomorrows’ & said our goodbyes to Fred & Pat as they need to
move on tomorrow. Calm water, clear
sunset sky, clear night sky & ¾ moon.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhld6l6XVLe5ppqsy2ZX92dkmb78r3XO6Om5T7Fc6KUmbr2zYA9Jmc7yMRjM252NSG9IV53YobnsU0iTRcHX7NH_SDCpLLBTfSnJVvrgWokfXXsvR5J6oTEUWwAHjHQ31l7jGNZC7ytcSWi/s1600/Beaufort,+S.C+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhld6l6XVLe5ppqsy2ZX92dkmb78r3XO6Om5T7Fc6KUmbr2zYA9Jmc7yMRjM252NSG9IV53YobnsU0iTRcHX7NH_SDCpLLBTfSnJVvrgWokfXXsvR5J6oTEUWwAHjHQ31l7jGNZC7ytcSWi/s320/Beaufort,+S.C+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Note the Palmetto Palm in the Green Shutters</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmgzcIfIdLe_cbw02TcqTD2AEmNmNLlQ_IoIaQzq2ny5V6xxzJID_s4ovxd2BfHiahtpQ7yTgM7Tx2QPiLrjHa7Tqwwd-sUHe-KSjpwvwfAsUnLtAXyN2Ir9t2NxL-poapxCTgbc-pqrX/s1600/Beaufort,+S.C+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmgzcIfIdLe_cbw02TcqTD2AEmNmNLlQ_IoIaQzq2ny5V6xxzJID_s4ovxd2BfHiahtpQ7yTgM7Tx2QPiLrjHa7Tqwwd-sUHe-KSjpwvwfAsUnLtAXyN2Ir9t2NxL-poapxCTgbc-pqrX/s320/Beaufort,+S.C+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Licence Plate--'56 T- Bird</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Apr. 21, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 201:</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Port Royal Landing Marina (Mile 539.6)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> gale force advisory NE 15-20K in am &
20-35K late pm & night<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> crystal clear, sunny & cold + made cooler
with strong breeze, cloudy mid pm, rain<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVChNYb199ypZjGhrWheoheW4p1vWzEKKKtsJP2YNztqXE73nlyFSE9Dxh718kon9x8QVeEKHcegkZURnGf3ZyO-0ZhWp8cE1YRARlHVV5_1zpg31bK3cPZ5ZQm0J1BJ5MoX6rO2CixpY/s1600/Beaufort,+S.C+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVChNYb199ypZjGhrWheoheW4p1vWzEKKKtsJP2YNztqXE73nlyFSE9Dxh718kon9x8QVeEKHcegkZURnGf3ZyO-0ZhWp8cE1YRARlHVV5_1zpg31bK3cPZ5ZQm0J1BJ5MoX6rO2CixpY/s320/Beaufort,+S.C+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Lowcountry Saltmarsh Grasslands, Live Oaks & Spanish Moss</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">I was slow to rise on this
bright, clear, cold but sunny morn as I had another late night. At 0800 hrs. NOAA announced a gale force advisory
for the Beaufort area from 1100 hrs. to 0600 hrs. tomorrow. Cold NE winds of 15-20K started soon after
0900 hrs. & by late afternoon were in the 20-35K range. The Beaufort River was an ugly sea of white,
with good 2 ft. waves rolling south, crashing into boats tied on the outside of
the face dock & crashing into the face dock. I had a busy morning changing the bed linen,
doing 2 loads of wash, shower & internet; washers (1 front load + 1 top
load) =$1.00 ea. & dryers (1 front load & 1 large commercial with 70
min. cycle) = $1.00 ea. At noon we
borrowed the courtesy truck & the Morrows & ourselves drove to Historic
Downtown Beaufort & had lunch at Luther’s, then casually walked along Bay
St. popping into a few shops. Having a
pre-dinner drink on ‘Twomorrows’ we all said how glad we were to be here &
with these weather conditions. Besides,
the marina staff Tom, Rion, Tony, Chris are so friendly, accommodating,
personable & knowledgeable; this is one of the very best marinas! ‘Marianna’ left this am & texted the
Morrows saying they were anchored in Toogoodoo Creek (Mile 495.4) but would be
doing anchor watch tonight. No sunset
after such a brilliant sunny morn, no moon, only cold, vicious, howling NE
winds, waves slapping at the hull, rain & dark errie night. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Apr. 22, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 202:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Port Royal, Beaufort (Mile 539.6)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE 20-25K, decreased late afternoon to 15-20K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy am, few raindrops , then full sun mid
afternoon <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUSWHfblnMB733yKPPG08HhZkeJOTYFaiAK_ojMdERFSco561K-xVfxB3GUBhwKAMQcPHT9I1owXyOSV3z5DtAhPh4eZWwKSbma0iZ77YYfC3V7J7WUkUuuTsRuchnFckMdgDrUSrZhfj0/s1600/Beaufort,+S.C+001+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUSWHfblnMB733yKPPG08HhZkeJOTYFaiAK_ojMdERFSco561K-xVfxB3GUBhwKAMQcPHT9I1owXyOSV3z5DtAhPh4eZWwKSbma0iZ77YYfC3V7J7WUkUuuTsRuchnFckMdgDrUSrZhfj0/s320/Beaufort,+S.C+001+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Note the length of the dock from Marina Office to ICW</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsv-HaMZIKuVf_h1ehdkMVDjonme1Iuekti0Y-1-AZh2zFraTRtk3n0a6nPUJf-GkYqNMPlsBLN-Mst-EebILfRGb7PwFTuxPM9gUB8bkktsER-kGZ7fwQz6Wo65l55VnsXOMAmiymw2S/s1600/Beaufort,+S.C+003+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsv-HaMZIKuVf_h1ehdkMVDjonme1Iuekti0Y-1-AZh2zFraTRtk3n0a6nPUJf-GkYqNMPlsBLN-Mst-EebILfRGb7PwFTuxPM9gUB8bkktsER-kGZ7fwQz6Wo65l55VnsXOMAmiymw2S/s320/Beaufort,+S.C+003+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Mud Flats at low tide at Marina</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">NE winds howled & blew
like stink most of the night with a few noticeable lulls now & again. No question, the Morrows & ourselves were
staying our 4<sup>th</sup> day; oh, I forgot to mention yesterday was our free
day. There was no way we could have gotten
off the docks, especially from where we were positioned, without an
incident. NOAA reports & all of Lynn’s
sources indicate improving & more favourable conditions tomorrow. I actually baked up some cinnamon rolls this
morning which warmed the cabin. I have
been spending much time the last few days & again today on my blog, posting
pics for the many weeks I did not have stronger enough internet to do so &
adding captions to pics from day 1, if you can believe. Very late morning after showering, we used
the courtesy truck for a short time to Lady’s Island to Bakers Marina &
Publix, then cooked up a pot of chili for supper tonight. The Beaufort River by this time was less
whitecapped & ugly. Both of us
utilized the sunny & warmer afternoon + our last chance with fresh free
water & electricity to do some serious cleaning; Graeme washed more of the
deck & removed some rust & stains from the deck; I vacuumed &
washed with chlorax & pinesol all the lined bins from bow to stern below
the floorboards which we use for storage as they are bone dry, in an effort to
make the tasks lighter & quicker when we reach home base & put ‘Sweet
Chariot Too’ to bed for the summer. Larry
baked up some cornmeal muffins to accompany our chili dinner together tonight. I did not take note of the sunset sky
tonight. A clear night sky filled of
stars+++ & a 7/8 moon & much
calmer winds & sea conditions.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Apr. 23, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
203:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Port Royal Landing Marina, S.C. (Mile 539.6)
to Church Creek (Mile 488.2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0815 hrs. <i> Arrival: </i> 1625 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 51.4 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE 15-20K, decreased to 10-15K especially in
more open waters & 9-12K in protected areas & calmer through the
afternoon with a shift to E then SSE 5K by sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy & cold, mid afternoon the sun
tried to break through & clear late evening <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFbxFaMOVqMmodxaLhE2DLntLSwrS38224WuxkDR2agxuJEchuTc1ofPixyAZemHaNgntjj4hSHYvGTQU2dQN9YeU5IuI3xtAAOtv1WACXmvWa1qR529qSB-3k3_561xl4hk1ZcWFOiNl/s1600/Charleston,+S.C+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFbxFaMOVqMmodxaLhE2DLntLSwrS38224WuxkDR2agxuJEchuTc1ofPixyAZemHaNgntjj4hSHYvGTQU2dQN9YeU5IuI3xtAAOtv1WACXmvWa1qR529qSB-3k3_561xl4hk1ZcWFOiNl/s320/Charleston,+S.C+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Note the mud banks, the new saltmarsh grasses & zoom into the alligator sunning</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">I got that last shower in
before dawn & departure time. I was
worried about getting off the dock, but Tony was superb once again; it was
slack high tide & he released the midship & stern mooring lines, the
wind gradually brought the stern out or away from the dock, then Tony took the
bow line, walked it along & at the same time pulled the bow right around;
Graeme powered in reverse just a short time then we motored out into the
Beaufort River, which had only a slight chop this morning. What a difference a day makes! The time of the tides today were not really in
our favour in accordance to the caution shallow depth spots we had to
pass. We made the 0900 hrs. opening of
the Ladies Island Swing Bridge along with 5 other northbound & 1 southbound
boats. Brickyard Creek was O.K. on the
falling tide & against current until we exited into the Coosaw River; boat
speed was up to 7.7K with the wind on our nose motoring towards St. Helena
Sound & into the Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff #2.
I sure was glad I had put my antiperspirant on this morning through the
cutoff; man-o-man was it skinny/low water (6-9ft.) & there still was over
an hour before max. low tide! And I was
driving! Although the depths were O.K.
through Rock Creek, the Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff #1, the Ashepoo River &
Fenwick Cut, it was a seesaw action of our speed, depending which direction the
current was flowing at that location in relationship to the inlet, ie flooding
or ebbing. The South Edisto River &
Watts Cut were a different matter as we cautiously cut our engine RPM’s through
these areas 1 hr. into a rising tide; the depths were low & the muddy
shores were very exposed through these narrow passages; we even saw an
alligator sunning on the mud banks in Watts Cut. Finally the narrow ICW widened into the North
Edisto River followed by the tortuous Wadmalaw River, with better depths as
well. I tried to sit outside the
enclosure this afternoon when the sun was trying to break through the clouds
but the breeze was too cold & the sun was more in than out. We pulled into Church Creek as to: (1) stage
for Elliott Cut & it’s vicious current; must go with the current, so on a
falling tide, because the water flow originates from Charleston Harbor Inlet;
and (2) an early arrival into Charleston & therefore more time to
experience it’s romantic air. We
anchored against the strong current as opposed up into the wind which was at
our beam in 16 ft. with 100 ft. of chain.
There were 6 boats here tonight.
With very calm winds, it was a very tranquil spot, with only the sound
of a variety of birds & soundless but peaceful movement of dolphins through
the water. We will part company with the
Morrows early in the morning for our 2 night stay in Charleston, as they bypass
Charleston & move on. But we hope to
meet up again at the end of the week. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
seem to still have some trouble with eating supper after 2000 hrs., whereas in
the Fall you are looking to go to bed at that same hour. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A
magnificent sunset, more magnificent red evening sky & clear night sky with
a bright near full moon & stars.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-b-xwfxniFHA3rrm5b29QLrh8KS-X1PeiQiYMqZD5958hirzGVR25Clwvoa4qCtUOwebxcaH7I17XqdbDX3YapP0QmTihm3aIxvAhRVTL_rSE4UBvnZym4tirjctJGV3Hf9yHX-9Dgc-7/s1600/Charleston,+S.C+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-b-xwfxniFHA3rrm5b29QLrh8KS-X1PeiQiYMqZD5958hirzGVR25Clwvoa4qCtUOwebxcaH7I17XqdbDX3YapP0QmTihm3aIxvAhRVTL_rSE4UBvnZym4tirjctJGV3Hf9yHX-9Dgc-7/s320/Charleston,+S.C+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Church Creek</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-49313672098165110812013-04-12T09:05:00.000-07:002013-04-22T05:55:06.571-07:00Week 28: Apr. 10-16, 2013 (Day 190-196)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week
28:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Apr. 10, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
190:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Seabreeze, Daytona (Mile 829.2) to St.
Augustine (Mile 778.2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0650 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1440 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 51 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E <3K, increased late am to 5-7K, then
<10K early afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> warm sun but cool breeze, threatening rain
clouds at times <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBG4ppFV5VbITVhzXa-93HWV8jVGbWrNO_xy1gThLfl7-4tRoAJxbrcTtzodh_EhkSXncAlIs-VaYZJCL7y1NHgspxwaXlXxSgjGtoKRcdBe-xeFoAbWblCNdMew0mvAQD7JIlDjmi66O/s1600/St.+Augustine++004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBG4ppFV5VbITVhzXa-93HWV8jVGbWrNO_xy1gThLfl7-4tRoAJxbrcTtzodh_EhkSXncAlIs-VaYZJCL7y1NHgspxwaXlXxSgjGtoKRcdBe-xeFoAbWblCNdMew0mvAQD7JIlDjmi66O/s320/St.+Augustine++004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Bridge of Lions</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thankfully it was a quiet
& calm night + the current did not make any boats at anchor do any crazies
& somehow the yahoos around us did not bump us. We were out of bed before dawn & it was
actually pleasantly warm. We up anchored
without difficulty despite the 2 yahoos on either side; I admit I was anxious to
have the opportunity to blow the blow horn at them. Even at this early hour there was a parade of
7 sailing vessels travelling north along the Halifax River with a near 1K
current against us (travelling speed= 5.2 to 5.7K). Lately we have heard much talk of the
Marineland Marina, south of Matanzas Inlet at G89; $1.00 per ft., free laundry
(1 washer & 1 dryer). We experienced
good depths, varying from 10.3 to 18 ft. around the channel markers of Matanzas
Inlet, where we finally started to get a push from the current (6.2 to
6.8K). Two of the yahoo boats caught up
to us at the Crescent Beach Bridge (bascule) & of course wanted to pass;
one had the audacity to call the bridge tender when he was over a mile away
& asked that the bridge be held open for him; of course the answer was no
& he sounded shocked & upset! Daw!!!
The east side of the bridge was undergoing repairs. A falling tide was very evident as we were
still being pushed towards St. Augustine.
Graeme was not paying enough attention & with the south mooring
field close in sight he thought he could cut the corner between the red
markers, only to go hard aground in 4 ft. water north of R12 & far west of
G11. Rocks for brains came to mind. Unsuccessful in our attempts to get off after
5 mins. & with the tide still falling, he hailed Tow Boat US; we were
unsuccessful in contacting the local office but eventually were successful in
creeping towards the deeper water after about 20 mins., just as another boat
went aground to the east of us. Then it
was a rush but we made the 1430 hrs. opening of the Bridge of Lions. Our mooring ball assignment was in the north
or San Marco field as requested—SM4.
With ease we connected up to the mooring ball, then Ken from ‘Sail Away’
came over for a beer & chat. Now
late afternoon, we dinghied to the marina office to register ($20.00/
night). We met Dixie & Rex at the
dinghy landing dock. A welcomed shower
& a brief internet connection, enough to email home before it cut out. We walked to St. George St. & purchased
an ice cream; nothing like having dessert before supper. From our mooring ball we had a lovely view of
touristy St. Augustine under night lights.
A clear sunny afternoon led to a cool, clear, red hued evening sky &
cool, clear starry night.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixZzMquaXNTCB2YzATyyAbaQkCZoh8KNMdse6K7o-ym3ydOpZc3fJsj0v_hJJKkiqQL32JCiLOnRJRwBQuh-nn2h5vlFI1G7hdWyIDhmp7K1-OAkW9Bioq8JtFrzhtsD6zJpuLltKN9Yt/s1600/St.+Augustine+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixZzMquaXNTCB2YzATyyAbaQkCZoh8KNMdse6K7o-ym3ydOpZc3fJsj0v_hJJKkiqQL32JCiLOnRJRwBQuh-nn2h5vlFI1G7hdWyIDhmp7K1-OAkW9Bioq8JtFrzhtsD6zJpuLltKN9Yt/s320/St.+Augustine+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Dixie & Rex (Wonderland)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Apr. 11, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
191:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> St. Augustine (Mile 778.2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> calm SE, increased early afternoon to 15-25K
& gusty & howling<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> threatening rain clouds, clearing to partly
sunny late am, then a partly cloudy evening<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Zu_vVltX6MxNiArYbNqFa41I-nZsIcTInerbmuIFZk6OOFrjxvKY0JYm4rOWBbPeUVywucy4jMrBACuJlZ-MMwmcxrzICAUI-N-vHXQslu34jaUw3ZLLgYZGfe1zNO4WgkfGDXpGAimO/s1600/St.+Augustine++001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Zu_vVltX6MxNiArYbNqFa41I-nZsIcTInerbmuIFZk6OOFrjxvKY0JYm4rOWBbPeUVywucy4jMrBACuJlZ-MMwmcxrzICAUI-N-vHXQslu34jaUw3ZLLgYZGfe1zNO4WgkfGDXpGAimO/s320/St.+Augustine++001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Off the main drag</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A grim day of sad news
today. Graeme topped the boat’s diesel
tank from the jerry can supply. At shore
he refilled the diesel jerry cans while I disposed of the garbage & did
internet; amazing I maintained a connection!
But I learnt of a friend’s recent unfortunate ski accident. Mid morning Graeme, Janet & I walked to
ABC Fine Wine & Spirits on the corner of King St. & A1A; David’s ankle
was too sore. We continued on to Sailors
Exchange & ordered a new Davis anchor light (2 have crapped out on us &
the mast anchorlight is only working intermittently); the order is to arrive
when the store opens at 0900 hrs. so we will likely be another day here. We then walked along A1A to West Marine &
met up with Mary & Blair (Strathsby) from Ottawa; they spent the month of
March in Cuba—loved it & inexpensive.
Mary informed us that it was Pat from ‘Sun Cat’ that had fallen &
died walking on the rocks at Hog Cay/Warderick Wells. I was shocked & crushed. We met Pat & Tom at Warderick Wells at
Christmas & then again at Georgetown; we did daily yoga together, met at
Beach Church each Sunday & she hosted a ladies’ luncheon one day. Oh Pat, you were one wonderful, kind,
generous, unselfish lady who thought of others all the time! You will not only be dearly missed by your
family but by your many, many friends! I
only knew you such a short time but your warmth touched me in a way that words
can’t express! You will remain in my heart
& thoughts! Sadly we walked back by
the side streets around Flagler College to the historic downtown area, lunching
at Scarlett O’Hara, then to St. George St. yet again. A bit more internet at the marina &
Graeme as well. Lynn & Larry arrived
& in the north field on SM7. The SE
winds were blowing 20-25K & the south mooring field was a mass of whitecaps
& a vicious current. Thus we
dinghied under the marina ramp, along the new docks to their eastern end as the
water was much calmer, then ducked under the Bridge of Lions visiting Lynn
& Larry before reaching home. More
boats went aground today. Threatening
grey rain clouds in the evening sky, at sundown & at night. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Apr. 12, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
192:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> St. Augustine (778.2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SE 12-15K, decreased during am & clocked
to W 10-15K by sunset & < 5K & glass like at dark<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> warm, humid but decreased late pm, mostly
cloudy although the sun tried to break through, H= upper 70’sF & L= upper
60’sF<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The strong howling
southerly winds + the wind & current driven chop decreased during the
night. It has become scary how well I
sleep through the night till near 0600 hrs. no matter what anchorage conditions
were like. ‘Whiski Mak’ departed by 0700
hrs. followed shortly thereafter by ‘Sail Away’ then ‘Twomorrows’; Larry texted
about 0930 hrs. saying they had anchored already at Pine Island (13.1 SM). To shore for an early shower, Graeme refill
ed2 water jerry cans, picked up the Davis light ordered yesterday while I took
the opportunity to do 1 load of laundry (1 wash= $1.50 + 1 dry= $1.50), which
would give me a great chance to do internet.
I just noticed today while I sat in the marina lounge for hours doing
emails & updating & adding pics to my blog, that there was a notice re
St. Augustine Cruisers Net each day at 0900 hrs. on VHF 72; cool! We had a combo of a late lunch & early
supper at Pizzalley (calzone halves); do you call that lunpper? And once again we lumbered along St. George
St. & the side streets closer to the harbour. There are more tourists in Spring than Fall
time for sure. Once back at the lounge
Graeme showered while I checked the weather forecast on the internet; nothing
seen for a week in contrast to what some cruisers were saying about horrendous
weather coming Tues. through Thurs. I
met Arlene & Al (Blue Heaven) who was with Pat & Tom when the tragic
incident took place & performed CPR on Pat.
I thanked her for all she & Al have done. The predicted rain & thunder of yesterday
appeared to veer just to the north & today’s predictions for possible rain
& thunderstorm thankfully did not materialize; the chop died down for most
of the day, especially by sunset. Lots
of dolphins seen gracefully swimming through the anchorage each day of our stay
here in St. Augustine. Clouds at sunset,
then a sudden burst of red sky through the clouds. A cloudy night with flat calm water.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil13UDj-FC7XqvCUnKwXmlxfvHRqzYxXLLEDV5xvG0UTehhI5fuORiNAnorVc3x7laJl1V_f0tlR8tEKUIRywXy0tmWU9DwgXDGrsy3hgN_HwW6cMygP-gl0XBAl33ONCkMHuV9HVM5aY4/s1600/St.+Augustine++005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil13UDj-FC7XqvCUnKwXmlxfvHRqzYxXLLEDV5xvG0UTehhI5fuORiNAnorVc3x7laJl1V_f0tlR8tEKUIRywXy0tmWU9DwgXDGrsy3hgN_HwW6cMygP-gl0XBAl33ONCkMHuV9HVM5aY4/s320/St.+Augustine++005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Dolphins in North Mooring Field</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Apr. 13, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
193:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> St. Augustine (Mile 777.8) to Bells River,
Fernandina (Mile 716.5)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0700 hrs. <i> Arrival: </i> 1630 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 61.3 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NNW
to N 10-15K, eventually E 2-8K & calm at sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy till mid am then clearer skies &
sun to the north<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7j6Yr-RNfxCciPvgJ2B2feydu60Xtze-V-Z-TVdjD95XPUuY5J0szwYXId2G0m4bDsLjLRAd1Rt87HAjcHeUTpQ8J01npwr8gvBObq02s8gk47Rkhg-jK4ee8__y63sXk05V91fyZVOD/s1600/St.+Augustine,+Cumberland+Island,+St.+Simon+Island,+Wahoo+River+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7j6Yr-RNfxCciPvgJ2B2feydu60Xtze-V-Z-TVdjD95XPUuY5J0szwYXId2G0m4bDsLjLRAd1Rt87HAjcHeUTpQ8J01npwr8gvBObq02s8gk47Rkhg-jK4ee8__y63sXk05V91fyZVOD/s320/St.+Augustine,+Cumberland+Island,+St.+Simon+Island,+Wahoo+River+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy Birthday Colleen!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It was barely light when
we were out of bed. After an easy escape
from the mooring ball, we announced our departure to the marina & had a VHF
conversation with the Morrows as they were leaving Pine Island. Janet & David made it yesterday to
Jacksonville, but both they & the Morrows experienced 30K winds yesterday
afternoon. We departed on 2 hours into a
rising tide, so were opposed to the current for a short distance until we
rounded passed St. Augustine Inlet, then were pushed along the Tolomato River
at 6.6K as far as the Palm Valley Bridge where we slowly felt the current
opposing. The tides in this section are
now influenced by the St. John River; our speed gradually decreased to 5.7 down
to 5.0K the closer we got to the river.
In Palm Cut I started noticing the increase in spanish moss & the
more vibrant & alive shade of green to the trees & shrubs, another sure
sign of Spring. There was a parade of
boats, particularly trawlers, northbound as there was a trawler rendezvous (84)
in Fernandina starting tomorrow X 1 week; no marina space available, not that
we wanted one. Approaching the McCormack
Bridge (known for it’s fast rushing current & eddies), a large motor vessel
(Chinta Manis) continued to pass after I specifically said negative to his
request, then he refused to respond to me; SETHING! The St. John River crossing was benign &
we never got a push on the north side of Sister Creek Bridge (bascule-Mile 739.2) as expected; in fact we
fought the current the whole friggin way (<5K). Was water flowing here to the St. John River
or in from the Nassau Sound? Also, 90%
of the day the clocking wind was on our nose. The route was multi directional
as the ICW wound through the South Amelia & Amelia Rivers’ shallows. Attention was necessary at R50 & G49
(can) of the Sawpit Creek & also Nassau Sound R46B, R46A & R46. The only tremendous push was after Amelia
City about G23, G21, & G19, past Crane Island & the Kingsley Creek RR
Bridge (Mile 720.7). It was a falling
tide, therefore here the water must run along the Amelia River to Cumberland
Sound & St. Mary Inlet. I drove the
majority of the day & followed the magenta line, yet I saw 5.1 ft. in the
Amelia River, south of Kingsley Creek; SCARY!
It is very deceiving when the tide is falling yet not low enough to
expose the numerous mud flats of this area & the circuitous ribbon of ICW
water. It was already 1600 hrs. when we
arrived at Fernandina. We had hoped to
make it to Cumberland Island for the night, but we would have been fighting a
strong current in Cumberland Sound.
Instead we anchored in the Bells River; 12 ft. water & 100 ft.
chain. Lynn & Larry anchored at
Cumberland Island but they had started this am from Pine Island (-13 SM). They will move on tomorrow, but this is
likely my last trip, so weather permitting we will stop for a day there
tomorrow. A cloudless evening sky, a
spectacular setting sun & ditto for the red sky after sunset. Tonight we had a sliver moon high in the
clear sky with the many stars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Apr. 14, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
194:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Bells River, Fernandina (Mile 716.5) to
Lanier Island, St. Simon Island (Mile 677.2), Georgia<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0755 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1440 hrs.
<i>Distance:</i> 39 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NNE to NE 5K, increased to 13-5K & E by
evening & gusting 20-25K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy, threatening rain, damp & cool in
am & rainy & thunderstorm & tornado warnings early afternoon
onwards<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhakoClkvzP37grhtO9pwZO1z4AzLMJjxXwzF-Yf4OWYZ8IYLTLOrdYn_iGin3NKG1OQWRaeIE6Nfcojwf0dAiX29Bz9i-HoEVm1vpdBj851E9Pu1xohRtg1huw1gjDNw6LiIloWaHMmtUU/s1600/Kings+Bay,+Georgia+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhakoClkvzP37grhtO9pwZO1z4AzLMJjxXwzF-Yf4OWYZ8IYLTLOrdYn_iGin3NKG1OQWRaeIE6Nfcojwf0dAiX29Bz9i-HoEVm1vpdBj851E9Pu1xohRtg1huw1gjDNw6LiIloWaHMmtUU/s320/Kings+Bay,+Georgia+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Sub Degausing in Kings Bay</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Last night was our last
night in Florida. Tonight was our 1<sup>st</sup>
night in Georgia. And today was one of
those very infrequent ugly days. No
surprises last night; so calm the wind generator did not even budge. From the Florida rat race & busy
lifestyle, industrial & cramped residential areas that line the ICW, the light
turquoise, green & murky brown water & many miles of white sandy
beaches off the beaten path & seldom seen, to the southern more relaxed,
calm, laid back lifestyle, miles of salt water grassland creeks & rivers
filled with abundant sea life away from much civilization, white sandy beaches
& wilderness of Georgia. A cloudy
morning when we up anchored & it was looking worse to the west. When we turned at the appropriate marks in
Cumberland Sound & being pushed nicely on a flood tide, we disappointedly abandoned
plans to do the beach at Cumberland Island.
Instead we pressed on confronting an opposing flood tide from St.
Andrews Sound after Kings Bay (sub in water under overhead garage). We had good depths of 15-40 ft. except for
one 10-11 ft. section. A bit of the
jenny was unfurled when the channel widened into St. Andrews Sound & the
wind was slightly off our starboard bow instead of on the nose. We saw no wild horses on the northwestern
beaches of Cumberland Island. As it was
high tide, we were able to keep R32 out in the Sound well off to starboard
& headed to G31, then a beam reach motorsail to G29 at Jeykll Island
point. We travelled through Jekyll Creek
at high slack with good depths, even at G19 & G17, except when the ferry
boat stirred up the bottom. Out in St.
Simon Sound the rain began & continued on & off throughout the rest of
the day & night; some thunder heard.
‘Twomorrows’ pulled into Morningstar Golden Isles Marina for water &
fuel, then proceeded to Frederica River for the night. I had hoped to arrive, get anchored early
afternoon & then walk the 1-1/2 mi. to the lighthouse & shops etc.;
‘Rainbow Inn’, a resident of St. Simon, provided some very useful & helpful
info of this historic area—a new dock under the low bridge to tie up dinghy. Thunderstorm & tornado warnings announced
on NNOA, winds shifted to the east & were dramatically up & down, but
the tidal current was master of the boat’s position at anchor. At low tide we barely had 6” under our
keel. We were the lone anchored boat
tonight. No visible sunset, no red sky,
no stars, no moon, only cloud, heavy rain, strong gusting & howling winds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Apr. 15,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 195:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Lanier Island, St. Simon Island (Mile 677.2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NNE to NE <10K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> fog+++, mix of cloud & sun with
decreasing humidity by afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Addendum to add to last
evening’s blog: rain prevented us from
getting off the boat yesterday afternoon.
In fact in the late evening hours the rain became heavier & at about
2030 hrs. the southerly winds intensified & became very gusty, at least
25-30K. At 2015 hrs. we turned the VHF
on & thunderstorms with heavy rain & hail & a tornado warning was
issued for Glynn County & the surrounding area, but especially Fernandina
to St. Augustine, just south of our location; Marineland was mentioned
imparticular. Between 2100 & 2230
hrs. we experienced horrendous gusting & howling winds, heeling us
over. I hope our 100 ft of chain &
anchor hold us! Afterwards the winds
became calm, as if a switch was flicked on.
We learnt this am that boats tied up at the marina also heeled heavily
into the dock & winds were reported at 65 mph. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCa4MHgG9K1WbGW7SfpkXu463aCPk4VtciO_pLdGxPOpsifRgJLJTUij4dymQ61R86wGIHRb5KLdZd8-ZZIyYa8WMYtZy8FcaJSXcQxe_nyXeZvbJxScv6Q4_pvG1UwaxU9OpxySHN9x1/s1600/St.+Simon+Island+038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCa4MHgG9K1WbGW7SfpkXu463aCPk4VtciO_pLdGxPOpsifRgJLJTUij4dymQ61R86wGIHRb5KLdZd8-ZZIyYa8WMYtZy8FcaJSXcQxe_nyXeZvbJxScv6Q4_pvG1UwaxU9OpxySHN9x1/s320/St.+Simon+Island+038.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">St. Simon Lighthouse</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A heavy fog surrounded us
when we got up this morning & the air was humid. Since the winds were calm, the fog did not
disappear till 1000 hrs. While waiting
for this to occur, I buzzed Graeme’s hair.
We decided to stay here another night so I could have my own way &
tour St. Simon Island & the lighthouse.
After all I missed climbing Ponce de Leon lighthouse & visiting
Cumberland Island. By even only taking a
few hours to tour St. Simon Island Lighthouse then leave, would set us
completely wrong (at low tide) to pass the Little Mud River, a caution shallow
water area. Now with the fog dissipated
& the clouds breaking up, we dinghied under the St. Simon Causeway (low
bridge) to a new dock at Gascoigne Bluff.
Locals were fishing off the dock, sitting in their chairs, & Graeme
was all concerned now that the dinghy might get stolen. The boat lock was rusted shut & non
functional, so we used the dinghy motor lock to lock the dinghy & motor to
the dock. We walked a minimum 3 miles
along Kings Way, past Retreat Golf Course (David Love III) & Retreat
Village</span> s<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">pectacularly beautiful! Large expensive homes now & apparently
site of cotton plantations before the Civil War; also site of ruins of house
& slave hospital + the impressive Avenue of Oaks , now the entrance to Sea
Island Golf Course. Eventually we
arrived at the lighthouse area, shops & pier on Mallery St., then along
Neptune Park to St. Simon Lighthouse & Museum on Beachview Dr. I climbed the 129 steps up then down the
lighthouse; my lower quads were quivering & screaming; how out of shape I
am—disgusting!). Graeme’s knee was too
sore so no more walking along Ocean Dr. to Massengale Park & Beach &
East Beach & the Maritime History Museum.
I very highly recommend bikes as this is an ideal way to see all the
sights ie Maritime History Museum, Bloody Marsh National Monument, Retreat
Village (shopping), Redfern Village, Stables, Christ Church & Cemetery
(1883) & Ft. Frederica National Monument.
We took a taxi back to Gascoigne Bluff ($10.00); we waited a long time
for it to show but learnt that all taxis come from Brunswick & apparently
there are no local form of transportation eg bus, as St. Simon is too small an
area. We met a number of friendly locals
finishing board paddling & kayaking & fishing, & our dinghy was
exactly as we left it. Graeme topped the
boat’s diesel tank then we both dinghied to Morningstar Golden Isle Marina to
refill 2 jerry cans. A German tall ship
had just arrived. ‘Dyad’ was anchored
right behind us & so we went & introduced ourselves & spoke with
Kathi; ‘Dyad’ was purchased in Nova Scotia, but is registered in Delaware because
it was one of the easiest states to do so.
They enjoy Canada especially Newfoundland. A 2<sup>nd</sup> sailboat (Flying Free) was
just anchoring who were Canadian from Regina, Saskatchewan. Most suppers these days since DST &
crossing back to the USA have been eaten in the cockpit with a few exceptions
only, like last night. In contrast to
last night, the sun tonight was a ball of fire as it fell in the western sky;
an orangey sky afterwards. There was a ¼
moon even before dark + stars in the clear night sky.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Apr. 16, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
196:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> St. Simon Island (Mile 677.2) to Wahoo River
(Mile 630)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0820 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1620 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 47.2 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: NE 8K, increased my mid am to 15-20K &
18-20K most of the afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> light fog then mostly sunny with few clouds
but cool breeze<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi82f5dQTypGw7gr25abJk7Q3RFZEQfx7LEET6rWdG3hObDEddRgaFLGD0gZdJstiRgqkYwYxdRj-TQGgW4tCa0kALLS5nqyUR8Rre-_wp6tKqSfTIDQek31UIdFhtXDvgMDoj3Z7IoZtSM/s1600/St.+Simon+Island+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi82f5dQTypGw7gr25abJk7Q3RFZEQfx7LEET6rWdG3hObDEddRgaFLGD0gZdJstiRgqkYwYxdRj-TQGgW4tCa0kALLS5nqyUR8Rre-_wp6tKqSfTIDQek31UIdFhtXDvgMDoj3Z7IoZtSM/s320/St.+Simon+Island+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Sidney Lanier Bridge to Brunswick in the background</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The fog dissipated quickly
this am. We up anchored with mud stuck
to the tip of the anchor; not surprised, in fact relieved, after the blow the
night before last. The sun was warm, the
breeze was cool & with it’s strength it was too cool to sit out on the
deck. We followed the circuitous route on
a rising tide along the MacKay River at about 6.0K & 8K of wind (with the
current) then followed the markers as well as the most helpful ranges towards
Buttermilk Sound (against current) at +/- 4.5K & 20K wind on our nose to
boot (1115 hrs.). Big flies like horse
flies started invading; the fly swatter was resurrected & was frequently in
full swing. The saltwater marsh grasses
had wonderful, new bright green Spring colour to them. At 1205 hrs. we entered the Little Mud River
1 hour before high tide as planned, therefore with current; 11-14 ft. depths
(great) but 18-20K winds & whitecaps (not great). At 1515 hrs. we passed through Creighton
Narrows, a 2<sup>nd</sup> caution shallow area I dread almost as much as Little
Mud River because there are no markers throughout this section; but it was a
high falling tide, so good depths except in one spot on the straight before the
2<sup>nd</sup> last turn northbound where we saw 9.8-10 ft. The winds were still on our nose heading out
towards Sapelo Sound & opposing 1-2 ft. waves, but at least with the tide
& current until we turned back towards land at R138, then opposing
again. We decided with wind direction
& it’s current strength that we would anchor in the Wahoo River rather than
pushing onwards. We set the anchor
around the bend of the Wahoo in 15 ft., but the current was too strong &
the boat was being pushed ahead of the anchor; dolphins. So we reanchored before the bend, away from
the crab pots in 15 ft. water & 100 ft. chain, although Graeme did cut the
corner & went aground in 4 ft. but powered off the mud. We were only 2 boats anchored out here. The winds calmed as the fiery red sun set, a
clear sky of orange, then a clear dark sky of stars & ¼ moon. The peacefulness, the tranquility, the dead
total quietness with only salt water marsh grasslands all around is out of this
world beautiful & something to experience, yet hard to describe. And then there is loneliness… <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-59802402594423826422013-04-04T10:27:00.003-07:002013-04-20T19:09:26.264-07:00Week 27: Apr. 3-9, 2013 (Day 183-189)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 27: </span></b><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Apr. 3, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 183:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Vero Beach (Mile 951.7)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SE 10-15K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mainly sunny till late afternoon, then
threatening rain clouds<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZ35JKvlVF7aukyK4iE7a1FuQqMi4dOonQEFdWIbTDNiMO6Xz45RWIeRheVt0n8WWMwhPxLndj1d66jp4gJ46MJCBculap0iLUG6xHR11h4cD_ohwQeGQi_h0Weo72v-AqfSxsvOPWUFI/s1600/Vero+Beach,+Fl++048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZ35JKvlVF7aukyK4iE7a1FuQqMi4dOonQEFdWIbTDNiMO6Xz45RWIeRheVt0n8WWMwhPxLndj1d66jp4gJ46MJCBculap0iLUG6xHR11h4cD_ohwQeGQi_h0Weo72v-AqfSxsvOPWUFI/s320/Vero+Beach,+Fl++048.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Another am that we slept in till 0700 hrs.; high
winds were expected late Wed. & Thurs. so we’ve been told, but because we were
not moving we were not so concerned. I
haven’t been yelled at recently or spoken to unkindly etc., all kinds of
conveniences are here except internet has been suspect for much of the day, free
bus service, therefore Vero Beach is not a bad place to lay up. Graeme took me to shore after breakfast &
I had a long 45 min. powerwalk to the beach, along the boardwalk & back to
the marina & a lovely shower. I
tried internet but not. Graeme did an
oil & filter change & brought the old oil preserver to the marina
office for disposal. A quick lunch on
board then we took the #1 bus to Humiston Park; 3 hrs. of beach time, catching
rays, reading , people watching & walking along the expensive shops of
Ocean Dr. before taking the 1555 hrs. #1 bus back to the marina. The clouds were looking very ominous but
seemed to have moved off westward. A
quick shower for both of us before dinghying back to the boat. Terri & Bill’s diesel genset had been
leaking a very minimal amount over the last 3 days but unsure exactly where
& still there; they were unable to get someone in the near future so have
delayed tomorrow’s departure. We phoned
Lynn & Larry over the noon hour & they were on schedule for Lake Worth
today, dinner with friends tonight, then Vero tomorrow. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Apr. 4,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 184:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Vero Beach (Mile 951.7)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S & light & clocking W about 10K to
NE to SE about 5-10K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy, little rain in the am, tornado
warning mid afternoon with lightning & thunder & rain, then cloudy
night <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHdnBtGBFLsh8H02uW6JgCN19l2XR3zXpHNzBkyEAZasXWXMmxWNxMUMffiWjGSMIQHIFPukfwq9E0cWH8hrt3XMn6Xv7mqXWFXDB_WCcJVRHhDZpWqvfwYtUsrRuCp2IbG-0ra3CIhqm/s1600/Vero+Beach+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHdnBtGBFLsh8H02uW6JgCN19l2XR3zXpHNzBkyEAZasXWXMmxWNxMUMffiWjGSMIQHIFPukfwq9E0cWH8hrt3XMn6Xv7mqXWFXDB_WCcJVRHhDZpWqvfwYtUsrRuCp2IbG-0ra3CIhqm/s320/Vero+Beach+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Vero Beach Municipal Marina-- lounge, laundry & showers</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A warm calm night; thusfar
the high winds have not come to flourishen.
It was to shore soon after breakfast with a month’s worth of sorted laundry
& supplies, shower supplies & computer backpack supplies + garbage
& diesel jerry can. I did 3 <u>full</u>
wash loads @ $2.00 each & 3 dry loads @ $1.50 each; a huge job at the
expense or instead of a powerwalk. It
did give me an opportunity to reacquaint with a few cruisers we first met near
the beginning of the trip. A shower felt
wonderful as ever & then some emails & my blog, although I was unable
to post any pics as the internet was so very slow or cutting in & out. Graeme took a bus to town for a washer or
bolt & hopefully for some info for Larry re a new starter battery, only
returning mid afternoon; I was about to take the dinghy & all the laundry,
shower & computer back to the boat on my own. Vero Marina holds a cruisers’ Happy Hour
every Thurs. at 1600 hrs. till whenever, but with the pending weather/tornado
weather warning we did not attend but awaited the Morrow’s arrival about 1800
hrs. Instead we hosted a cheering
greeting happy hour party with ‘Whiski Mak’ & ‘Second Option’; soon after their
arrival & when securely tied up ‘Twomorrows’ joined in. No lack of conversation & laughs. A clouded sunset with red sky only visible to
the north. A clouded night, no stars, no
moon. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Apr. 5, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 185:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Vero Beach (Mile 951.7)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">SE to S light<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy & rainy especially in the am,
humid to damp till evening<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmZuP1Y6byP-gg1UdjmNuDbkYsa3jAMlm_wi6QM0WOO80NFAICxuW3nmsPYrhSNrPtPl-Fg-oD0yfPOsa3YywniSFy7m2tV-I8GC5FoQcFYv7rleSrjWgcH1Nh5aXX0oIV8U1eV02uwCO/s1600/Vero+Beach,+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet,+St.+Augustine+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmZuP1Y6byP-gg1UdjmNuDbkYsa3jAMlm_wi6QM0WOO80NFAICxuW3nmsPYrhSNrPtPl-Fg-oD0yfPOsa3YywniSFy7m2tV-I8GC5FoQcFYv7rleSrjWgcH1Nh5aXX0oIV8U1eV02uwCO/s320/Vero+Beach,+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet,+St.+Augustine+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Another quiet & calm
night, just humid by morning. While I
showered Graeme took the #1 bus to West Marine yet again. Towards noon the Morrows & ourselves
gathered at the lounge awaiting a pick up by Enterprise Car Rental; Terri &
Bill took showers & did laundry & did a run to Publix, then later
declined meeting us for Mexican dinner at El Jalisco. Everyone’s spirits seemed dampened on this
grey day. Our car route included Total
Wine, way south in Port St. Lucie, Sam’s Club
& Bells all on US #1, a drive through Ft. Pierce City Marina
(construction still in progress by breakwater), then a stop & drink at
Harbortown Marina. We so happened to see
Dixie & Rex (Wonderland); hugs & short chat. We ended the day’s travel with a good dinner
at the El Jalisco (Publix Shopping Center).
The humidity had subsided as the north winds increased & in fact it
was slightly on the cool side. We had
late evening farewell drinks on our boat as Terri & Bill were leaving in
the morning; the umbilical cord was being cut after about 6 wks. of travelling
together. Clouded skies at sunset &
all night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Apr. 6, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 186:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Vero Beach (Mile 951.7)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> brisk, cool WNW to NW +/-15K, decreased by evening<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly a glorious sunny day <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZv1TIK_zSKAPM87ivHwHD8ERO7R3FOzHePHH2zeODCmuOmS-9TUmMl2y5quu47LNdH0E25VEfHIGDE-VWYa23MudB4LtSLACVq-ZRjldTV9fuUuuPTBBNE3vF3se_jfl0aHRW5ZbPAEr/s1600/Vero+Beach,+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet,+St.+Augustine+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZv1TIK_zSKAPM87ivHwHD8ERO7R3FOzHePHH2zeODCmuOmS-9TUmMl2y5quu47LNdH0E25VEfHIGDE-VWYa23MudB4LtSLACVq-ZRjldTV9fuUuuPTBBNE3vF3se_jfl0aHRW5ZbPAEr/s320/Vero+Beach,+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet,+St.+Augustine+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Janet & David (Whiski Mak)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sudden onset of northerly
winds of 15-20K during the night causing our 3 boats on one mooring ball to jerk
around but all was O.K. Early morning
showers before breakfast & when we returned before 0900 hrs. Terri & Bill had gone—thanks guys! It did not seem like a proper farewell. I thought we could have had a chance to
express our thanks & farewell for a great time & friendship of buddy
boating; our paths will probably never cross again. Today’s adventures included Lynn getting a
hair cut while I browsed the regular Sat. morning’s Farmers Market at Humiston
Park (0800-1200 hrs.) & Larry & Graeme picked up Larry’s new starter
battery & finally a trip to Walmart & Publix finishing early
afternoon. Larry drove me to Holy Cross
Catholic Church to attend their 1600 hrs. Mass; it was over in 45 mins.,
something I was not used to while in the Bahamas, so I had time to walk back to
the marina. Janet & David came over
& we all enjoyed a very pleasant farewell happy hour; ‘Whiski Mak’ &
ourselves plan to depart tomorrow; the Morrows will probably follow suit after
turning the car rental in early Mon. am.
The northerly winds decreased & the warmth of the sun was glorious. There were many conch blowers in the
anchorage tonight. Larry cooked a
delicious Hoppin John supper for us which we devoured; hurray, one of the
southern dinners on my list! The icing
on the cake was a shot of Nassau Royale.
It remained cloudy during the night as we slowly clocked to the east. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Apr. 7, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 187:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
Vero Beach (Mile 951.7) to Palm Shores (Mile 909)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0855 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1455 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 42.7 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NNE 8-12K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> low level cloud in the am, many sunny periods
throughout the day, H= 78F & L= 65F<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tFQiFoypytwNQkVnhSzWtm7u0WsiXXNdNcVPZ_cmqwxuOGhjYUJh21KSbpWSjbjmBLYiHpStRxAGqImPrOVlgIu6M0F4YwmfWev5BSj-Ni_5bvmqYq8ChkXg8P9CWbIENVml5Tsu-TrO/s1600/St.+Augustine%252C+Cumberland+Island%252C+St.+Simon+Island%252C+Wahoo+River+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tFQiFoypytwNQkVnhSzWtm7u0WsiXXNdNcVPZ_cmqwxuOGhjYUJh21KSbpWSjbjmBLYiHpStRxAGqImPrOVlgIu6M0F4YwmfWev5BSj-Ni_5bvmqYq8ChkXg8P9CWbIENVml5Tsu-TrO/s320/St.+Augustine%252C+Cumberland+Island%252C+St.+Simon+Island%252C+Wahoo+River+047.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">What ICW number was that?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> A quiet calm night, an early shower, the last
garbage disposed of & 1 water jerry can emptied into the boat tank was
refilled this morning. We said our good
byes to ‘Cocoon II’ but Bette & Bill (Sea Mist) had not surfaced yet. The dinghy motor & dinghy were lifted,
then breakfast. We said our good byes to
Lynn & Larry who will catch up to us in the next few days. A parade of a dozen boats (+/-) left this
am. I wondered if we may have an
anchorage problem at the end of the day.
Also, I didn’t think we would have any or as much a problem with weekend
boat traffic in this central section of Florida, but the powerboats were
discourteous, disrespectful, etc. between not announcing their approach from
the rear & their speed & wake when passing. Lots of beautiful homes lined many sections
of the ICW waterfront & lots of sea life was seen along the Indian
River—dolphins, pelicans, cormorants & osprey & new osprey nests, a
sure sign of Spring. We motorsailed this
section knows as the Treasure Coast of Florida under jenny at a speed of +/-
6.0K. I was able to catch up writing the
last 2 days of my blog in Word while moving along. We had reached Melbourne at 1240 hrs., too
early to stop, therefore we continued through 2 more bridges, setting the
anchor & 100 ft. of chain in 8 ft. of water at Palm Shores. There were only 3 boats here for the night,
one of which was ‘Whiski Mak’; surprising after the parade of boats heading
north today. We probably should have proceeded
to Cocoa because our dilemma now was where to go tomorrow; Titusville is too
close & Daytona is too far. I have
mentioned in the past how I would like to see & climb the lighthouse at Ponce
de Leon; this might be my opportunity. A
lovely sunset until the sun slid behind the landmass & red sky that
followed. A calm, clear, dark night sky
+ stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Apr. 8, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 188:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Palm Shores (Mile 909) to Rockhouse Creek
(Mile 842.2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0700 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1710 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 66.8 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> N 3-5K & even flat calm, not a ripple at
times to NNE at 10K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> light fog to full sun, few clouds at times
then sun again<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbibgMpuh1tz6Wzr-2kd1xSCXO0b25jIbTFWNk1K3VdhcV_2QQSL2jdYkW3mG0v_QkDncp0GCIIgcoBU8QPKW_Pj6aNQfKsgqmeWGp4A71aRSdskiGww_py57cpdOeKZr7qXC6nDkCBJA/s1600/Vero+Beach,+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet,+St.+Augustine+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbibgMpuh1tz6Wzr-2kd1xSCXO0b25jIbTFWNk1K3VdhcV_2QQSL2jdYkW3mG0v_QkDncp0GCIIgcoBU8QPKW_Pj6aNQfKsgqmeWGp4A71aRSdskiGww_py57cpdOeKZr7qXC6nDkCBJA/s320/Vero+Beach,+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet,+St.+Augustine+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Fishing standing outside your dinghy</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">It couldn’t get much
calmer last night & the bridge traffic adjacent to where we anchored was
light. We rose before dawn when there
was just a sliver moon still visible in the dark sky. Dawn too was just as
calm. The plan was to put some serious
miles in today by maintaining a boat speed of 6K & I suggested then Tues.
would be a day of exploring Ponce de Leon Inlet & moving a short distance
of a couple of hours to Daytona in the afternoon. Sailing was out of the question in the morning
as the winds were much too light & often at times nonexistent & when
present was directly on our nose. We
passed through Titusville at about 1230 hrs. & in so doing passed from the
Treasure Coast to the Space Coast of Florida.
It was only here that the predicted winds of 10-15mph appeared & not
from the east as predicted. Nevertheless
once we passed through Haulover Canal & the bascule bridge into Mosquito
Lagoon we were able to use the jenny to our advantage. And as well the sun was shining once again
& nice & warm as I sat half sitting in the cockpit & half on the
cockpit combing. Unfortunately we
encountered the same 3 disrespectful, non-communicating motorboat yahoos from
Jupiter from yesterday twice today, once before Titusville & once after
they had refueled in Titusville. Vessels
were calling ahead warning boats of their belligerent attitude & conduct;
these old farts needed to be reported to the authorities. We got a nice push in the upper or North Indian
River as we made our approach closer to New Smyrna Beach (6.8K) + hundreds of
small white butterflies flew all around us just like the Spring of 2009
Karen! There were numerous dolphin
sightings & even a manatee We
noticed a possible anchorage across from New Smyrna Yacht Club at about G47-
G45. We took the Sheepshead Cut towards
the Coronado Beach Bridge (bascule) in plenty of time for the 1620 hrs.
opening. We attempted to enter the
anchorage north of the Coronado Bridge at R22 but gently went aground; we are
still not sure how to get into that anchorage.
Yet we had no problems at R18 & it certainly was low tide. Fortunately, ‘Mutual Fun’ hailed us to say
that there was enough room in Rockhouse Creek; we entered between R12 & R10
north of the shoal on the south shore & anchored in 8.5-9 ft. water with 80
ft. chain. ‘Whiski Mak’ arrived sometime
later then came over to discuss plans for the next few days; all in favour of
exploring the ocean & beach & climbing the lighthouse at Ponce de Leon
Inlet in the morning & early afternoon then proceed the 13 SM to Seabreeze
(Daytona) for the night. Wed. we would
push on to St. Augustine & await ‘Twomorrows’ arrival Thurs. A cool but gorgeous sunset with pink &
mauve & red evening sky. Cool, dark,
clear night with stars.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Apr. 9, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
189:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rockhouse Creek (Mile 842.2) to Seabreeze,
Daytona (Mile 829.2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 1235 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1515 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 13 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SSE 12-15K, decreased to SE 5-8K evening time<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> brilliant sun, few clouds, 0 humidity, H=
upper 70’s & L= upper 60’s<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYz7IpQq0yqNOENQgIqOHfqO_0voCID_mo2JMPnIPlRuXXUg18TvIhy_ihVtcKBlPkt17JeJqwS42iPvw9I78vOrYwJtpJBE7Qc-CmEwa87GcYdSOkY9zKp3uaS575gLeX8p7knjccjBMI/s1600/Vero+Beach,+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet,+St.+Augustine+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYz7IpQq0yqNOENQgIqOHfqO_0voCID_mo2JMPnIPlRuXXUg18TvIhy_ihVtcKBlPkt17JeJqwS42iPvw9I78vOrYwJtpJBE7Qc-CmEwa87GcYdSOkY9zKp3uaS575gLeX8p7knjccjBMI/s320/Vero+Beach,+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet,+St.+Augustine+035.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Ponce de Leon Lighthouse</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3XTedjB4-dpvobyb2QWAStzyn9aA1d_FOml-JJiLdW5NC9CGVtHCH9HbWxEF891rHvtBM21YSDTRsttzcQ1atZb5O0FxLFKuniknkXWwS4Wv9sbDWW6sYQlvxDDvzMe4DfDgkdI38RTi9/s1600/Vero+Beach,+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet,+St.+Augustine+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3XTedjB4-dpvobyb2QWAStzyn9aA1d_FOml-JJiLdW5NC9CGVtHCH9HbWxEF891rHvtBM21YSDTRsttzcQ1atZb5O0FxLFKuniknkXWwS4Wv9sbDWW6sYQlvxDDvzMe4DfDgkdI38RTi9/s320/Vero+Beach,+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet,+St.+Augustine+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="color: red;">Beach, Surfers, Tents, Vehicles...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: red;">
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A calm night; the tidal
current was the major factor affecting boat positions due to the close
proximity to Ponce de Leon Inlet.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A bright
& most beautiful sunny morning.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">All
boats but ‘Whiski Mak’ & ourselves left early.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We heard ‘Second Option’ on the VHF & was
able to communicate with them; they had a bolt & bracket break on the
ammeter on the engine but had repairs done at Halifax Harbor Marina, causing
them an extra day in Daytona, but now were off to somewhere north of St.
Augustine.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We jumped into our dinghies
about 0900 hrs. (high tide at 0822 hrs.) & made our way through the
mangrove canal across the waterway to the public dock by the boat launching
ramp , then walked to the lighthouse, which does not open till 1000 hrs. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In the meantime we walked toward the inlet,
the beach & boardwalk; waves were crashing in, a surfing competition was in
progress with vehicles & canvas/nylon tents strung along the beach &
surfers in the water, people fishing off the boardwalk & the rock jetty of
the inlet passage & walkers.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">I could
have stayed here all day; I was in my element.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">There was a $5.00 admission for the lighthouse (200 steps) & the
adjacent museum, but it was now 3 hrs. past high tide & Graeme was worried
we would not be able to dinghy back through the mangrove canal</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">& around the sandbars; very disappointing
as there was no time to climb the lighthouse.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We saw locals who had pulled their watercraft up on the sandbars, spread
their lounge chairs out & were enjoying this spectacular day of sun &
12-15K SSE wind that was keeping them cool; how cool was this!</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We prepared for our departure for the short
journey to Daytona, with a 2K current against us, motorsailing up the Halifax River,
anchoring north of the Seabreeze Bridge.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Reservations were made for St. Augustine.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">There was vivid evidence of low tide around
the Ponce de Leon Inlet area with all the exposed sandbars. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">An incredible number of dolphins were seen
throughout the day & even evening.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Eight boats were anchored here tonight, 2 boats were rafted & 2
other boats were </span><u style="font-size: 12pt;">way too close</u><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> to us, 1 in front & 1 in the rear; sandwiched
in by idiots who had no regard for others—great!</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">I wonder if Graeme or I will sleep tonight
& if we will be able to lift anchor early in the am!</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">An amazing sunset & sky & clear night
sky with stars.</span> </span>Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-62829895027143791902013-04-04T10:21:00.003-07:002013-04-21T19:57:35.374-07:00Week 26: Mar. 27- Apr. 2, 2013 (Day 176-182)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red;">Week 26:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Wed. Mar. 27,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 176:</span><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Manjack Cay to Northwestern Harbour, Great
Sale Cay</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Departure:</i> 0750 hrs. <i>Arrival:
Distance:</i> 58.5 NM</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> NNW 15-20K increasing to 10-15K after sunset
+/-15K </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Seas:</i> 1 ft. & whitecaps to < 1 ft. chop</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> mostly cloudy in am, mainly sunny with clouds
in </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjybel60ldoTIUTyY6nw5PqQK114T4Akwt8PBPPD9AlRj7WUG-82_aDBSGfACiRVwTWLiPfwH4tgJQYuaAVuvMruGFUHW2xKouTC57WK2LsBN3XZZQrW1psmgYjJ9UpthvEHj1vnzV1lVbm/s1600/Sea+of+Abaco,+Little+Abaco+Cay++027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjybel60ldoTIUTyY6nw5PqQK114T4Akwt8PBPPD9AlRj7WUG-82_aDBSGfACiRVwTWLiPfwH4tgJQYuaAVuvMruGFUHW2xKouTC57WK2LsBN3XZZQrW1psmgYjJ9UpthvEHj1vnzV1lVbm/s320/Sea+of+Abaco,+Little+Abaco+Cay++027.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Trying to capture the aqua blue of Bahamas water</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The bouncy motion seemed to settle down sometime during
the night as the wind shifted slightly more to the north. It took some time to tune into hear Chris at
all; if we heard right Sunday’s window has closed & it is favourable to
cross midday Friday & Saturday.
‘Second Option’ & ourselves decided then to bypass Crab Cay &
head directly to Great Sale Cay, a 10 hrs. trek but with long daylight hours in
our favour. We set out & were able
to carry a partial jenny for a short time as we motorsailed along (6.5K) until
the wind was directly on our nose (5.2K at 3000 RPM). We passed Crab Cay at 1045 hrs., bore off the
wind & deployed a full jenny (6.0K at 2500 RPM). A fair bit of seagrass was on the water
today. Also, generally speaking, the
water was clearer & cleaner in the Exuamas than here in the Abacos. We passed Fox Town at 1230 hrs. as a family
of dolphins played only a short time in our wake; such joy! About 4-5 boats from Fox Town either
travelled to Carters Bank Waypoint or travelled south of Veteran Rock to Sale
South Waypoint & finally Great Sale Cay Waypoint. We were one of the very last to arrive & also
one of the furthest out, anchoring in 8 ft. with 100 ft. of chain. It was a rather easy & comfortable day
with plenty of reading, although I did take a turn at the helm. The clouds filled in late in the afternoon. And as the sun was setting amongst the clouds
it was a big red ball with rays of red light radiating down through the cloud
& clear sky, followed by a peachy coloured sky between the cloud patches. A patchy cloud & clear sky night with
stars & the official full moon reflected off the water, which may have been
the reason for the lovely firework display tonight.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Thurs. Mar. 28,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 177:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Great Sale Cay</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> NW-NNW +/- 10K, N 15K at night</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather: </i> cool breeze, mainly cloudy with sunny periods
in am & mainly sunny in pm</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHlKOTgxD_32XwgObbsrvlml_UWCoSMGonHD1FzMH0rKGeQSCRFLsMPEWHWnnBIIdnzCkopUvAj7QlQxa3Ljsk1fGMYDt9rIJHUZuFjxSU6ulYFa0bxylcDISEvDcsqrvrkXWAizXzcLK/s1600/Great+Sale+Cay+Moon+Rise+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHlKOTgxD_32XwgObbsrvlml_UWCoSMGonHD1FzMH0rKGeQSCRFLsMPEWHWnnBIIdnzCkopUvAj7QlQxa3Ljsk1fGMYDt9rIJHUZuFjxSU6ulYFa0bxylcDISEvDcsqrvrkXWAizXzcLK/s320/Great+Sale+Cay+Moon+Rise+029.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Full Moon rising over Great Sale Cay</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Calm water & calm winds during the night; a cool
night so had to pull the duvet into service.
Chris confirmed the crossing to Florida best midday Fri. through
Sat. Eight or so boats moved on in the
morning & we watched several boats arrive in the mid to late afternoon; a
total of 23 tonight very widely spaced
out. A bit more of intense cleaning of
the main cabin. Otherwise it was a lazy
day of suduko, reading in the cockpit until it warmed up, even laying in the sun
on deck reading wearing long pants & a long sleeve sweat top. Graeme topped up the diesel tank in prep for
our departure for Little Bahama Bank waypoint tomorrow as soon as Chris’
weather report is completed. We lowered
the dinghy & rowed over to ‘Second Option’ for an early happy hour & a
short discussion of the 1<sup>st</sup> few days when we are State side. A red sunset with a fair amount of clouds typical
of a cool night . A couple of conch
blowers tried their talent or lack of—this was the last time we will here that
sound for awhile, maybe forever. A
mainly clear, dark night & thus the most fabulous stars. A full moon was late rising tonight. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Fri. Mar. 29, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
178:</span><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Great Sale Cay to Little Bahama Bank Waypoint
26o 55’N 79o 03’W</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Departure:</i> 0730 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1615 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 50.8 NM</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> N to NNE 10-18K <i>Seas:</i>
1-2 ft. waves, 4 ft. NE swells</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> mainly sunny & a bit warmer</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBJdBFdi_IC_VK5_Y0I-pCCFcYJIN5N9dvueZKJCs_FBcdRMrHVYfeGiIatR1sxo6DiEFIplNGHfgt-71h6QAj5Uf1dtOkO2pZ6UFmjJ_cn3ToAvuLDkIH2co5ObAvCtfNR5xKT7YzFWX1/s1600/Little+Bahama+Bank+Sunset++032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBJdBFdi_IC_VK5_Y0I-pCCFcYJIN5N9dvueZKJCs_FBcdRMrHVYfeGiIatR1sxo6DiEFIplNGHfgt-71h6QAj5Uf1dtOkO2pZ6UFmjJ_cn3ToAvuLDkIH2co5ObAvCtfNR5xKT7YzFWX1/s320/Little+Bahama+Bank+Sunset++032.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Last Bahamian Sunset-- Little Bahama Bank </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Good Friday! And
Happy Anniversary Terri & Bill! No
church & no anniversary celebrations. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The northerly winds picked up after dark to +/- 15K, but
by dawn they settled down to +/- 10K.
SSB report at 0630 hrs. reported the weather as still favourable to
moving to the Little Bahama Bank waypoint today & on to Ft. Pierce
tomorrow; now Sunday was added as a good day as well, so our plans now have a
day of grace built into them. Several
boats departed early, some in direction of Memory Rock, some to Little Bahama
Bank & others further north ie Cape Canaveral. There were a few whitecaps on the 1 ft. waves
as we got under way under sail with a full jenny at +/- 6.0- 6.5K on a beam reach & motoring in idle to
charge items. The waves increased to 2
ft. with sustained winds of 15-18K till well after noon, then they slowly
decreased to 8-13K & shifted slightly more easterly. At 1230 hrs. we crossed onto the Little
Bahama Bank where the water was a striking clear colour of turquoise. We were the 3<sup>rd</sup> boat to anchor at
the Little Bahama Bank waypoint (26o 55’N
70o 03’W), anchoring in not so shallow but 19 ft. & 140 ft. chain,
with the bank shelf of turquoise water’s edge meeting & dropping to near 75
ft. depths of the cobalt or indigo blue water of the Straits of Florida, just
shy of our anchorage. But like our sail,
it was quite rocky & rolly due to the NE swells. Four of us anchored at this spot but not for
long…..</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
This was the last of aqua to turquoise water, the last of
quiet, tranquil & peaceful Bahamian anchorages & lifestyle, the last of
some of the friendliest people I have met, both cruisers & locals. And guess what? The last Bahamian sunset with patch work
clouds only above with a very slight
Bahamian green flash! Or was it
my imagination, or greater yet that desire to see my last Bahamian green flash?</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Sat. Mar. 30,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 179:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Little Bahama Bank to Ft. Pierce, Florida</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Departure:</i> Fri. at 2100 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> Sat. at 0900 hrs<i>. Distance:</i> 63.4 NM</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> E 6-10K, increasing 15-20K <i>Seas:</i>
3-1/2 ft. swells, decreasing near dawn</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> mostly clear & stars +++, 7/8 moon light
up the night sky, mainly sunny day with cool breeze & clear starry skies</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYnBGswdKfPDg8Hxhfv-329UVzJRCrXPB0yqMsrlYlutQ2AWVPpKGf_fbKMFAqvqtJT3vpKuDeY8vfcQgIpOxcyLAlf47SsASuayuiX4Z8SR8wtWcJ_7xtBXWPzzmjiDHJYBJDEQflBl1/s1600/Removing+Bahamian+Flag+to...+036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYnBGswdKfPDg8Hxhfv-329UVzJRCrXPB0yqMsrlYlutQ2AWVPpKGf_fbKMFAqvqtJT3vpKuDeY8vfcQgIpOxcyLAlf47SsASuayuiX4Z8SR8wtWcJ_7xtBXWPzzmjiDHJYBJDEQflBl1/s320/Removing+Bahamian+Flag+to...+036.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Removing the Bahamian Flag</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
It was a unanimous decision between the 4 boats that we
would not stay here overnight as it was too bouncy, but leave at 2100 hrs.
& do an overnight passage. It wasn’t
till after the passage that we learnt that Terri & Bill felt seasick at
anchor. It was too bouncy for Graeme to
refuel & he felt it was not necessary, so he tried to sleep, but sleep did
not come. Grilled cheese sandwiches for
supper at 2000 hrs., sandwiches & a pot of coffee made for overnight. We up anchored in the pitch dark under
zillions of stars; the 7/8 moon did not rise until 2200 hrs.—a huge orange ball
until it was high in the sky. We all
agreed to maintain about +/-6K but 2 of us travelled towards St. Lucie Inlet
with expectations that the Gulf Stream would push us north (proved to be the
slightly, less ongoing corrective course) & 2 boats motored directly to Ft.
Pierce waypoint, adjusting position as necessary along the way. We were unable to set any sails as the wind
was too light & directly behind, whereas those that departed from the Issac
Rock area likely had a beam reach sail. The
NNE to NE swells made it a bit bouncy & rolly. Phosphorescence was seen on the waves off the
boat. We took 2 hour shifts to begin
with but Graeme did 0200 hrs. onwards for some reason; I slept in the cockpit
till 0400 hrs. Everyone checked in to
the group every hour. About 10 mi. (0530
hrs.) from shore our GPS lost it’s fix a couple of times. Our intent was to pass through the inlet at
slack tide (0806 hrs.), therefore we were all going too fast & had to slow
up. The American flag was taken down
& the ‘Q’ flag took it’s place at dawn before entering port. Daybreak put a more familiar perspective on
the sea. Ft. Pierce is a nice wide &
deep inlet. Being a weekend & Easter
weekend at that, there was a fair number of recreational boat traffic
especially fishing boats + local earlybird fishermen. The dolphins were swimming, eating playing
all around us as we passed the entrance to Harbortown Marina & prepared to
anchor. We anchored in the small &
shallow anchorage south of the North Bridge (bascule), outside of Harbortown
Marina—strong current. Other options
were City Marina or the anchorage by City Marina or Faber Cove. A good thing we anchored early because in the
afternoon there would have been no space; as it was it was too crowded. I called Mom in Ottawa, we showered, launched
the dinghy & tied up to Terri & Bill’s boat as they took a slip in
Harbortown Marina. We were unable to
rent a car (none or too expensive), after 3-15 min. attempts unable to get our
long digit number from Border & Homeland Security to check into Customs
& Immigration & to add to our frustrations we were rudely spoken to on
the VHF when making plans for the above.
To my American friends I apologize, BUT welcome to the US! In the long run we took a taxi to the St.
Lucie County Airport-- $13.00 each way.
It was mandatory that we have the long digit number; finally after
waiting 25 min. on our cell we were successful & cleared our way into the
USA. A light lunch at the marina
restaurant, then we all walked a few blocks to the West Marine & the
Publix. I called Lynn & Larry to
find their whereabouts & plans. A
reddish sky after sunset; someone tried to blow a conch but it just wasn’t the
same. A clear starry night with gusting
winds.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkZMMP2ChNvLQI6Zt1e8AgtMwA5QvDI-sUUR5s_Qg0v9Kvhi5Ui41V0qww40RcBKcF7b0T8o6i64kbJjjYqyxw2s7wLeCT0Ibel0mGhEhDhewgMq0YjJ28bFnzbSyCL7WZUf8_N-RlXsU/s1600/Last+Bahamian+Sunrise++040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkZMMP2ChNvLQI6Zt1e8AgtMwA5QvDI-sUUR5s_Qg0v9Kvhi5Ui41V0qww40RcBKcF7b0T8o6i64kbJjjYqyxw2s7wLeCT0Ibel0mGhEhDhewgMq0YjJ28bFnzbSyCL7WZUf8_N-RlXsU/s320/Last+Bahamian+Sunrise++040.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Last Bahamian Sunrise</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Mar. 31, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
180:</span></span></b><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Ft. Pierce (Mile 964.8)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SE calm to gusty 10-15K to S by sunset at 10K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mainly sunny but a cool breeze, H= mid 70’s
& L= mid 60’s<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy Easter! But no proximity to any Church!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMhdhlslAE9e4ZUqZLheu5BjhlrW-stbSFYFjCiPbrdWDRtsWOWqOp2turkXnBhw2s-v1Wf-fQfDo5tpOXWXZCMaxLgbHKX5zGn4lDQwA_o_0f6DyDCJpxSDpebL8wnIqCK4EKiR7uKv2/s1600/Pelican+in+Flight--+Ft.+Pierce%252C+Fl+042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMhdhlslAE9e4ZUqZLheu5BjhlrW-stbSFYFjCiPbrdWDRtsWOWqOp2turkXnBhw2s-v1Wf-fQfDo5tpOXWXZCMaxLgbHKX5zGn4lDQwA_o_0f6DyDCJpxSDpebL8wnIqCK4EKiR7uKv2/s320/Pelican+in+Flight--+Ft.+Pierce%252C+Fl+042.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Pelican in Flight</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A calm, quiet night with
some bridge traffic & a nearby train, but slept soundly. A calm start to the day; the Coast Guard
message warned of increasing winds to 20K & rough seas from Jupiter Inlet
to the south & Sebastien Inlet to the north; mid morning SE winds gusted
up. It was certainly shallow here in
this anchorage; we saw 5’4” to 5’6” at low tide & ‘Second Option’ in their
slip in Harbortown Marina were well aground at 3’4”! For the second time in 2 consecutive days
I’ve been rudely told to get off the VHF 71, a pleasure channel & use a
cell or landline as today the excuse was that I was interrupting his
fishing! I blew it & told him to
quit listening to my conversation or turn his radio off if I was interrupting
his fishing & happy Easter! I knew I
needed to reacquaint & readjust to mainland living but this was ridiculous. If I could I would never come back to
Florida! It’s amazing, we did not have
even 1 person that was rude or unpleasant or even unfriendly throughout the
Bahamas! There are always a few that
spoil it for the majority! Graeme added
2 diesel jerry cans & 1-1/2 water jerry cans to the boat tanks; he sprayed
clean water on the dodger & enclosure side windows which were heavily laden
with salt. We spoke to a fellow cruiser
from the U.K. who had 3 yrs. spent with his wife cruising in the Caribbean,
then this winter Puerto Rico & the Bahamas & now the US; because of the
US Cruising Permit Laws it is not feasible for him to cruise in the USA X 1 yr.
as his cruising permit will expire & he would then have to leave the US for
15 days before renewing the cruising permit, therefore he is forced to sell his
boat & not cruise & spend money in the USA. That applies to us as well but with Graeme
being an American citizen the Virginian Border & Homeland Security thusfar has
waived that 15 days. After lunch we
dinghied to Terri & Bill’s boat, walked to the West Marine, tried
unsuccessfully to walk to the City Marina, charged my computer & checked a
few emails, while Terri did laundry & Bill switched to a Bruce anchor &
washed his chain locker & deck; at the laundry prices here I will wait till
Vero Beach which are expensive enough. We
saw a sea otter swimming through the marina.
Lynn & Larry Morrow had a hell of a sail with 22K winds & 4 ft.
seas from Marathon. We returned to the
boat late afternoon & had a nap. I
have not quite adjusted to DST & eating until dark which isn’t till after
2000 hrs. Sunset was obscured by low
level clouds; an orangey pink sky just above the clouds followed & the
winds were slowly decreasing. With all
the lights around it was hard to detect how much cloud there was but some stars
were visible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Apr. 1, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 181:</span>
<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Ft. Pierce (Mile 964.8) to Vero Beach (Mile
951.7) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 1020 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1240 hrs<i>. Distance:</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> W 8-18K & gusty<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">cloudy, threatening rain clouds, few sun & blue
sky patches & mostly sunny afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQTOCEKCoxtj-wqRNOpClKlqIBw1yiwBSQp9C3fdamum1Z-iJsji747ARcFdViDH9O0UCypChRtP0tr9a2mZe-LVFDnFR8E5ZbziudrWXc-33zZbfW7__HpjqEZbqY2u1P8TTIbva014qa/s1600/Ft.+Pierce%252C+Fl.++047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQTOCEKCoxtj-wqRNOpClKlqIBw1yiwBSQp9C3fdamum1Z-iJsji747ARcFdViDH9O0UCypChRtP0tr9a2mZe-LVFDnFR8E5ZbziudrWXc-33zZbfW7__HpjqEZbqY2u1P8TTIbva014qa/s320/Ft.+Pierce%252C+Fl.++047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A sleepful night &
woke to a warm, slightly humid, cloudy morn.
After breakfast Graeme took the 3 empty diesel jerry cans to refill at
Harbortown Marina. We pulled the motor
& dinghy on the davits & waited a bit for the tide to come up a bit
more. We went through the Ft. Pierce
North Bridge (bascule) with 2 other northbound sailboats & 1
southbound. A few spits of rain as we
motorsailed under ¾ jenny with west winds gusting up & down from 8-18K at
an average speed of 5.5-6.8K. It took a
long time for Vero Municipal Marina to answer our hail to receive our mooring
ball assignment. Eventually we were
assigned to the empty #2 mooring ball (south anchorage) close to the entrance
with ‘Second Option’ as our neighbours.
We learnt that ‘Whiski Mak’ was still here. Some supper preparations were done for dinner
guests, Terri & Bill this evening.
We saw a sea otter by shore & dolphins gracefully swimming amongst
the boats. Late in the afternoon we rode
to shore to officially sign in at the marina office, took a lovely long hot
shower & read just a few emails. We
discovered that other people we had met earlier in the trip in Staniel Cay were
also here. We had a lovely dinner on a
lovely warm night in the cockpit. Thank
you Terri for baking a golden cake with dark chocolate icing—delicious! A simple delightful evening. A glorious evening sky, light winds, dark
night sky with few stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Apr. 2, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
182:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Vero Beach (Mile 951.7)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather: <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfA2Sq64JWwjFBWh9Q65wLoFuwuNP8QJVppfNfopz3ouJ-vWguPL_4FWeDcmBrxWTdPRbjGwsjdkHeP_nj6XkHKzvWxkJiVFK66RE6HtEiD8DhEuYI3ZLuw2_pm2Pb5fH8AMtJ4mpDKtm/s1600/Vero+Beach%252C+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet%252C+St.+Augustine+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfA2Sq64JWwjFBWh9Q65wLoFuwuNP8QJVppfNfopz3ouJ-vWguPL_4FWeDcmBrxWTdPRbjGwsjdkHeP_nj6XkHKzvWxkJiVFK66RE6HtEiD8DhEuYI3ZLuw2_pm2Pb5fH8AMtJ4mpDKtm/s320/Vero+Beach%252C+Ponce+de+Leon+Inlet%252C+St.+Augustine+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Ibis</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">It was an early morning
rise, to shore for a shower after breakfast & climbed on the 0810 hrs. Go
Line #1 bus from the marina to the transfer point, then the #2 bus to
Target.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">First order of business was a
haircut ($15.00)—not great.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We shopped
the specials at Bells; Tues. is senior discount day + store specials + new
customer discount.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We walked to Walmart
for reprovisioning of beer & most food; will purchase fresh fruit &
meat closer to departure day.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We took
‘Anywhere Car Service’ (Johnny) who taxied us, Terri & Bill & all our
groceries to the marina for a total of $12.00 + tip ($9.00 for 2 persons).</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Bill, Graeme & I returned to town by bus
to West Marine & ABS Liquor & back.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We organized a gathering of at Riverside Café—‘Second Option’, ‘Whiski
Mak’, ‘Cocoon II’, ‘Plan B’ & ourselves.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We all returned to our respective boats before sunset.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">No internet today.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The red sun setted behind the land of west
Florida.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A clear night sky with stars
& calm.</span> </div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-84291536186511645962013-03-22T18:49:00.000-07:002013-04-12T10:58:14.491-07:00Week 25: Mar. 20-26, 2013 (Day 169- 175)<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 25:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed.
Mar. 20, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
169:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Green Turtle
Club <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SES < 5K to
W 5-8K <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly sunny
& warm, increase cloud late afternoon, H= mid 70’sF & L= 70F<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVuqrykJ61issSkJEMXzp50KdxgVP2j8dJNgDHOndu3gCN3DPi5lprmb_GYOmBps6V2fgu5tplHgcTVaSEyoAsmBXxVuAFqBV0oLNvTXPuW5aSSRBIXTthMnXTt8f_nLvsoWhAEOivVLL/s1600/Green+Turtle+Cay+019+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVuqrykJ61issSkJEMXzp50KdxgVP2j8dJNgDHOndu3gCN3DPi5lprmb_GYOmBps6V2fgu5tplHgcTVaSEyoAsmBXxVuAFqBV0oLNvTXPuW5aSSRBIXTthMnXTt8f_nLvsoWhAEOivVLL/s320/Green+Turtle+Cay+019+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Fires on Great Abaco Island</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwqBiUEEH6wPbVOCZ43SS-0QhJTjKQ__N08Eibd7ub_limWZ0Wksl54crwAniT17fYuq_LVmYIwpvtxzdxdfRKOERlRYFLe8GeLZ3f0MlTDoQK0xiRFtypp6qP7S-ny0ohtbWhPZQNd4A/s1600/Green+Turtle+Cay+006+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwqBiUEEH6wPbVOCZ43SS-0QhJTjKQ__N08Eibd7ub_limWZ0Wksl54crwAniT17fYuq_LVmYIwpvtxzdxdfRKOERlRYFLe8GeLZ3f0MlTDoQK0xiRFtypp6qP7S-ny0ohtbWhPZQNd4A/s320/Green+Turtle+Cay+006+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">New Plymouth</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A calm, tranquil & warm night. Once again the forecasted bad weather did not
materialize & another expensive night at a marina. Drier climate this am, pleasant temps &
sunny. After a morning shower, I spent
much time on the computer gathering weather info from different sites because
the reception of Chris was nothing but poor & discouraging; we are faced to
stay another expensive night in the marina with predicted 30-40K winds from
midnight till midday Thurs. But we still
have not seen 3 consecutive comfortable days in any predictions to cross to
Florida. I think Graeme washed some of the deck & the cockpit & filled
the boat’s water tanks. After lunch we
dinghied across to New Plymouth & walked up & down, in & out the
concrete roadways. Before heading back
we stopped for a beer at the Wrecking Tree Bar Grill & Bakery. The skies were beginning to show threatening
type clouds so we jumped in our dinghies & motored to check out Black Sound
& met Donna & Walter (Windspell) on a mooring ball ($10.00/night)—maybe
going to Munjack Cay tomorrow afternoon.
We dinghied back to White Sound to Bluff House Marina & walked about
for a very brief time. With the shift of
wind to the west, we experienced ash all over the deck & the cockpit from
the fires on Great Abaco Island. For
supper we attended the marina’s steak night special—superb! A port aperitif on our boat after
dinner. Partially clouded sunset from
the fires & clouds with mild west winds.
A light cloud cover & ½ moon & very few stars to nil visible
stars in the night sky. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs.
Mar. 21, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 170:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Green Turtle
Club<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NNW 20K to 15K
to <10K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cool northerly
breeze, warm sun, few clouds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn5OVxtwJGvViNJz_hqnnxdZGhBQWlsQ99Y-13mG3u0lVt4Lq0H2Mrtsfohiw6uT-yTKfWl8vGFkvsFF2jLu_zkZVmmXjfD9SnU9UoHSb3jq0LDnHTk_Rfr8C_gT_wPBtWcM8WcM9LefDl/s1600/Green+Turtle+Cay+012+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn5OVxtwJGvViNJz_hqnnxdZGhBQWlsQ99Y-13mG3u0lVt4Lq0H2Mrtsfohiw6uT-yTKfWl8vGFkvsFF2jLu_zkZVmmXjfD9SnU9UoHSb3jq0LDnHTk_Rfr8C_gT_wPBtWcM8WcM9LefDl/s320/Green+Turtle+Cay+012+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Green Turtle Club Pool</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The west winds picked up after midnight,
especially 0200 to 0600 hrs. when Terri & Bill saw lightning from every
direction & winds of 18-23K. I seemed to have slept through the whole
thing, only woken in the am when the wind from the stern pushed the boat
forward so the bow anchors where hitting against the dock. It was near impossible to hear Chris again
this am; a big power trawler 2 boats to our starboard had all electricals on
& we could clearly hear him requesting Chris’ advice for passage from Green
Turtle to Cape Canaveral but not the response.
We were told by a few other boaters that Chris reported a 70K squall in
Marsh Harbour at 0200 hrs. with
HAIL! Another cold front with high winds
predicted for Sat. & Sun. & ? weather Mon. through Wed. because the GSS
& Euro models are not in sync. I was
beside myself today, frustrated, depressed & vented in my emails to
friends yesterday & today. I have to keep reminding myself that there
are a lot worse places to be & how lucky I am to be in paradise. After breakfast & a shower I took my
computer to the lounge & in a quiet & peaceful environment worked at
some emails & cleaned up areas neglected.
Graeme decided that we were not leaving as originally planned. I had some lone quiet time walking to the Ocean Beach & laying on the
beach reading X 2-1/2 hrs. We enjoyed a
happy hour of frozen fruity drinks on ‘Second Option’. Another (#2) shower of the day & another
excellent dinner in the dining room; food & drinks towards our dockage
fee. It cooled right down near 1700 hrs.
& a great sunset I’m sure somewhere without trees & land to block the
view. A crisp clear night, ½ moon &
umpteen stars & very very calm winds. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri.
Mar. 22, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 171:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Green Turtle
Club<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E very calm to
SE 5-8K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> glorious sun
& blue sky, warm H= 75F<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdftjExxhoWQ1HpEfilyUWKTs2FhNu8Aeoo7m7F1__0Hj490HMNw2PgTMlpU_ghP4opvSeLcH2CMD1MzJ1MqY5Y9yhgdTLMWIjrFtDnkjtsQKMf6MGDAk_0NJGrWTyJwSAYrPgJ_pfNCVx/s1600/Green+Turtle+Cay+023+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdftjExxhoWQ1HpEfilyUWKTs2FhNu8Aeoo7m7F1__0Hj490HMNw2PgTMlpU_ghP4opvSeLcH2CMD1MzJ1MqY5Y9yhgdTLMWIjrFtDnkjtsQKMf6MGDAk_0NJGrWTyJwSAYrPgJ_pfNCVx/s320/Green+Turtle+Cay+023+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Horseshoes anyone?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A little chilly on the bare legs in
shorts this am, but not for long.
Scratchy reception & weather report from Chris; only 1 day, today,
of reprieve before we are to be hit with extended number of days of high winds
Sat. through Wed. Thank you Eileen &
Bud for emailing me Chris’ report.
Another land shower; why not when it is available & we are paying
for it. Our dockage meal of the day was
a lovely breakfast. Then we checked
several weather internet sites. Late am
the Ellis’ & ourselves took off in our dinghies & explored &
beachcombed Fiddle Cay (no shells or sea glass), then Crab Cay, where Terri
& I found lots of sea biscuits &/or muffins & some sea glass &
shells on the Atlantic side. When we
returned the guys were playing a game of horseshoes with a stick in the sand
& a piece of plastic shaped like a horseshoe. No moping today! When we returned to the marina we found some
boats had left to cross the Whale over to Marsh Harbour & others from
Treasure Cay & Marsh Harbour area through the Whale to here. One boat verified 70-78K winds &
HAIL! We had supper on board for a
change tonight & met the Ellis in the dining room after they completed
their dinners. Clouds filled in rather
quickly before sunset. Light cloud cover
with 2/3 moon barely visible.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat.
Mar. 23, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 172:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Green Turtle
Club<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SE 15-20K till
sunset, SSW about 10K overnight<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> rain &
cloud, humid+++, sunshine late am till late pm, H= 80’ish & L=70’s<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCogj8LianeywcjkTKbrn0azOhOf-eJ_gCq63CiASDvOssRdik2Ke161P0rZS7gRjaDhaWv7ufXZ0BdNLpTeE5Ersg454IhSUTHg28RGtNAkibjnyIpCTeDhAI1typFYZzexXl6daJ99AF/s1600/Green+Turtle+Club+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCogj8LianeywcjkTKbrn0azOhOf-eJ_gCq63CiASDvOssRdik2Ke161P0rZS7gRjaDhaWv7ufXZ0BdNLpTeE5Ersg454IhSUTHg28RGtNAkibjnyIpCTeDhAI1typFYZzexXl6daJ99AF/s320/Green+Turtle+Club+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A gentle rain, some lightning &
thunder & calm winds during the night.
A scratchy weather report on SSB; squalls possible with 30-35K gusts
& clocking to SW, then Sun. clocking to W 20-30K (not a good direction for
any anchorages here) with ? overnight squalls of 35-40K & clocking to NW
Mon. at 20-25K. So our marina bill
increases, as does my grey hairs; one won’t believe how grey I have become,
from nearly nothing 5 yrs. ago to this & then there is the weight thing—not
looking good. The rains continued till
near mid morning & SE winds increased to 15-20K straight down White Sound;
1 ft. chop with whitecaps. Some gusts
were higher whereby one flexed the wind generator blades enough so one blade
hit the support bar & damaged 2 blades.
About noon the sky started to clear & soon the sun broke out, but
winds continued. I worked on the
computer till & after lunch. Graeme
& I had a late lunch; this was our meal of the day towards our
dockage. An Italian buffet was on the
menu for supper tonight, but expensive ($40.00 each) & some of the food was
fish; Graeme doesn’t eat fish & he eats very little so not reasonable to
part take in this meal. The Ellis’ had
another meal on their own. We did go for
an after dinner drink(s). The skies
clouded over before sunset & SSW winds decreased. A mostly cloudy night sky but we caught a
glimpse of a ¾ moon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun.
Mar. 24, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 173:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Green Turtle
Club<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SW to WSW-W
20-25K <i>Seas:</i>
1 ft. chop & whitecaps in White Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> partly sunny
& cloudy am & mostly sunny & warm afternoon with less humidity by
sunset, H= 80’s & L= 70’s<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubo6oeHGiCrlWWBGeT2sGw_dvjuPOfHGCOBLrxIFOt4yxxrXUY644eft7OTgunFyGEuESz2lFmD1WCRSoyH5lUKoBueS8s7MEuriZQaO4OfmCqSCl_Z4cZFASqdvYzhybl36yzaEKVzak/s1600/Green+Turtle+Cay+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubo6oeHGiCrlWWBGeT2sGw_dvjuPOfHGCOBLrxIFOt4yxxrXUY644eft7OTgunFyGEuESz2lFmD1WCRSoyH5lUKoBueS8s7MEuriZQaO4OfmCqSCl_Z4cZFASqdvYzhybl36yzaEKVzak/s320/Green+Turtle+Cay+021.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Brain Coral</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">A warm night & calm till dawn, then
increased wind velocity with howling SW winds.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We slept in a bit being a Sunday.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Sea of Abaco was reported to be a sea of white & it’s not
looking good for a departure tomorrow as hoped with increase WNW winds.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The bed linen was changed & we watched a
fuel freighter skillfully arrive & depart from the dock after breakfast.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Mid morning we walked to the Ocean Beach
& combed for shells & sea glass imparticularly along the north
end.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We were somewhat protected from the
SW winds & so it was very warm.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The
dockage meal of the day was lunch (late) again; the wind was blasting through
the dining room with the plastic curtains up.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Then we took in the marina pool till 1700 hrs. & read, short nap
& a dip in the pool.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A great shower after
the day’s activities.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Clouds again at
sunset.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A bright 7/8 moon tonight. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon.
Mar. 25, 2013-- <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 174:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Green Turtle
Club<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SW-WSW to NNW
10-12K in am to 20-15K most of afternoon, then N 15-20Kafter sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy, brief
sunny periods, humid in am, less humidity in pm, H= mid 70’s & L= 60F <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMkWvPOK4hvbHyX0VTwltg6AVAwtbWbPOqJijxadZ4sSnYnx9-KNNq9alhFUrNjLQCPxknldq4q2iLGKZcjT3Cj2WQuQT-bYza0rsM_HdUaU7ctdsSnHy2ot0Kl3B-46sdBxx8ahJMW65/s1600/Green+Turtle+Club+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMkWvPOK4hvbHyX0VTwltg6AVAwtbWbPOqJijxadZ4sSnYnx9-KNNq9alhFUrNjLQCPxknldq4q2iLGKZcjT3Cj2WQuQT-bYza0rsM_HdUaU7ctdsSnHy2ot0Kl3B-46sdBxx8ahJMW65/s320/Green+Turtle+Club+009.JPG" width="320" /></a>At 0300 hrs. I was woken to a sudden but short duration
of increased westerly winds, the dinghy ramming into the stern & rain. Shortly after 0600 hrs. a line of lightning
+++ & thunder rumbled through without an increase in wind; very humid. Chris was more audible this morning; some
interference with lightning flashes only; weather forecast was still poor. Threatening clouds throughout the day
especially to the south but there were no squalls as predicted. After breakfast I walked up to Bluff Point
& the Tranquil Turtle & observed 10-12K winds & 1 ft. shop on the
Sea of Abaco. I checked emails &
weather on the internet, then Bill & I started cleaning the stainless on
our respective boats. Graeme changed the damaged wind generator blades. Another late lunch in the dining room. Bill continued working on his stainless,
Graeme went to the pool then topped up the water tank, while Terri read as well
as I then showered. A small bite to eat
for supper. Movie night was held on
‘Second Option’; we watched Castaway. A
bit of a pale orangey sky after sunset.
A mix of patchy clouds & clear skies, stars & near full moon
tonight & a cool north wind. This
might be our last night!? </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Tues. Mar. 26,
2013-- <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 175:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Green Turtle Club to Manjack Cay</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Departure:</i> 0945 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1055 hrs.
<i>Distance:</i> 3.5 NM</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> NNW 15-20K <i>Seas:</i> 1-2 ft. rolling waves,
mostly whitecapped</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> coolish because of breeze but sunny</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYxag0xssml_nyMuPbwfUpXM3IAlqDuhX7lj21-aBLLm-6yaEn5qsul66Hkum6ZisD8CfOVutgbpQIqnQNBlBZNzYlXFSTsT9zqpo92Br3DT42I_1irOz4HuSxxZ1vd64Xx6qYfW_AS5D/s1600/Manjack+Cay++015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYxag0xssml_nyMuPbwfUpXM3IAlqDuhX7lj21-aBLLm-6yaEn5qsul66Hkum6ZisD8CfOVutgbpQIqnQNBlBZNzYlXFSTsT9zqpo92Br3DT42I_1irOz4HuSxxZ1vd64Xx6qYfW_AS5D/s320/Manjack+Cay++015.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Ocean Beach</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A comfortable cool quiet night. Although a scratchy report from Chris, there
was not much change over the next few days, nor with Barometer Bob from the
Cruisers Net. Our decision was made—we
were going to stick with the plan ie leave this am & make short hops, skips
& jumps north & west & cross to Ft. Pierce Sat. or Sun. My last Bahamian land shower & last
emails out to family & the Morrows until we are States side.. Graeme looked after the marina bill; yikes,
but as expected. ‘Second Option’ left
first, then ourselves with assistance of the other cruisers; uneventful, a good
start to the day. We were approaching 2
hrs. after high tide exiting the channel, seeing 8-9 ft. depths. The Sea of Abaco had 1-2 ft. rolling waves,
mostly whitecapped & we motored dead into the NNW 15-20K winds. Five boats already in Manjack Cay anchorage;
by evening the total was 10. We anchored
in 9-10 ft. with 100 ft. chain out. Shortly
after lunch we launched the dinghies & went to shore, meeting the island
owner, Bill Henderson. We walked to
& along the southern Ocean Beach; the waves were coming in pretty good from
the NNW; fine powdery white sand, tiny shells & no sea glass. We met a friend of Mr. Henderson on vacation
& a young Irish couple who were helping cut the casuarina pines, whose root
system invades the beach & the sand erodes away. We took a new path recommended by Mr.
Henderson that lead to Coconut Tree Bay, which eventually hooked up to the
Ocean Beach Path. Our hike was >3
hrs. in total. Back at the boat we had a
discussion about our destinations over the next few days in relationship to
winds. WIND DRIVES EVERYTHING! It was certainly lumpy & bouncy with the
NW to NNW winds & the rolling waves from the west. About 2000 hrs., before it was dark, Graeme
noticed we were slowly dragging; we up anchored & reset, setting out 120
ft. chain, I think. He sat observing
& was tracking our position on the GPS for awhile. A clouded sunset; some orangey sky. A mix of cloud & clear sky, stars &
full moon. But of most interest was the
vivid forest fires still burning on Great Abaco Island to the west despite the
rains the last number of days; an orange-red hue was clearly visible in several
spots along the island.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-12013677111947106912013-03-14T11:31:00.001-07:002013-03-20T08:55:02.881-07:00Week 24: Mar. 13- 19, 2013 (Day 162- 168)<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 24:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed.
Mar. 13, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 162:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="color: #0070c0;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Marsh Harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:
</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SSW about 5K, WWN to N +/- 15K<i> Seas:</i> Minimal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:
</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy & muggy, short lived rain over the
noontime, clearing skies & sun late, less humidity & coolish in
afternoon, H= 69-70F & L= 59F<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fyhT6L3RwDZ-mlmJpVwm8yZZyLudKejp9fWgLWFQZ_AZA41WxNLgQEu11cHtfUUmewfRsikINs-R2UBdG5aBMr_g4PzBIJhyphenhyphenDGSOLC7cSUxQGRh5EX1SgB0-OyJhm_a01P2Ea1QCbKhR/s1600/Mexican+Train+at+Jib+Room+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fyhT6L3RwDZ-mlmJpVwm8yZZyLudKejp9fWgLWFQZ_AZA41WxNLgQEu11cHtfUUmewfRsikINs-R2UBdG5aBMr_g4PzBIJhyphenhyphenDGSOLC7cSUxQGRh5EX1SgB0-OyJhm_a01P2Ea1QCbKhR/s320/Mexican+Train+at+Jib+Room+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Ladies Mexican Train Table</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jhrp_jeyL1cCOfx6MZdmU74X7D-CfTYJbSK_doflpxYtv5kLGfBpWc5EgiRGGJI17rgSRMU2HD7LLsqesxzSVwO8ubV9QTbM976dYDKJ9WHytyBeR0p_GX1w29ipEFSFDsQIqape1m4n/s1600/Mens%2527s+Table+of+Mexican+Train+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jhrp_jeyL1cCOfx6MZdmU74X7D-CfTYJbSK_doflpxYtv5kLGfBpWc5EgiRGGJI17rgSRMU2HD7LLsqesxzSVwO8ubV9QTbM976dYDKJ9WHytyBeR0p_GX1w29ipEFSFDsQIqape1m4n/s320/Mens%2527s+Table+of+Mexican+Train+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Men's Mexican Train Table </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A warm & quiet night of sleep. Some interference but we did get the weather
predictions from Chris through the weekend & a possible forecast for next
week with a cold front coming the following weekend; therefore it seems to be a
weather window to head north & cross over to Florida this weekend, which
Plumpuppet will likely to. Tentatively
we were thinking of moving to Treasure Cay on Sat., cross the dreaded Whale to
Green Turtle on Sun. & slide north in short hops & cross by Mar. 23<sup>rd</sup>. Laundry morning (0900- 1100 hrs.) for me (2
wash loads + 2 dry loads X $3.50= $14.00), current propane tank must be near
empty so in anticipation had it filled at Standard Hardware; leave early in am
& able to pick up at noon for $15.00.
Internet a BIG problem again today; how frustrating! To Jib Room for 1430 hrs. to play Mexican Train
till 1700 hrs. & I was the big loser again today, as Bill was a the men’s
table; 3 tables on the go + 1 bridge table.
We had supper in the cockpit at sunset near 1900 hrs.; still trying to
get used to DST. Then to ‘Second Option’
to connect to their internet via their router & to discuss some form of
plan for the coming week. A partially clouded
sunset. Stars in a clear dark night sky.</span><br />
<b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b>
<b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b>
<b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs.
Mar. 14, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 163:</span></span></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b><br />
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Marsh Harbour</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> N & NNW at
about 10K in harbour but 15-20K out on the Sea of Abaco<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Seas:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> minimal in the
harbour, 1-2 ft. waves & whitecaps on the Sea of Abaco<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mix of sun
& cloud, cool dry breeze, H= maybe 70F & L= 59’ish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The north winds picked up & woke me
at 0100 hrs.; that is a benefit of wind generators, gauging the wind speed. I peaked outdoors & saw that all was
well, read a couple of pages of a new book & fell back to sleep till dawn. A cold front is now expected Wed. pm through
Thurs. from the N & ENE respectively at 20K according to Chris’ forecast
given this morning; that throws a kibosh into our plans. And the cold front previously forecasted for
next weekend may be weakening or be non-existent. In any case, back to the drawing board—will
postpone our crossing but will progress northward slowly, beginning with our
attendance by ferry to Guana Cay to the Barefoot Man Concert tomorrow</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Sat. to Treasure Cay</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Sun. or Mon. through the Whale to Green Turtle Cay for now. Tom from ‘Polar Pacer’ confirmed his foursome
added to our 6 definites to purchase 2 books of 10 tickets for the ferry at
$21.00 each person return rather than $27.00 regular fare. Once ashore Terri & I visited Bristol
Liquors, Maxwells (groceries), Out Island.Net (questions re internet reception
outside of Marsh Harbour) & Kalik Liquors, while Bill & Graeme walked
to Albury Ferry Office to purchase ferry tickets. We retrieved my bike from Mangoes, checked
out emails + posted 2+ weeks of my blog without pics, then mid afternoon played
Mexican train on ‘Second Option’ rather than with the cut throats at Jib
Room. Again a clouded sunset with a
slight pink sky following. I have failed
to mention the religious, ongoing, wonderful conch blowers each night, the best
in the Bahamas! Cool, (wearing long
pants & sweaters these days + foul weather gear when out & around in
the dinghy + closed pots, hatches & companionway X several nights now),
mostly cloudy night with a crescent moon setting late just above a bank of
heavy cloud. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri.
Mar. 15, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 164:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Marsh Harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> N 15K+/- to NE
& calm at sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cool! mainly
sunny especially by afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC54m1i_C5d56GwILL2ZtV3_2f4uVVpx7YB4K2hhpvg85h1MmGtk6oF_5rQOhCbJcUOg9cUJEJqebPQW-YnxyrwYXPJbvAERQcahfFzWqhPnb_lKgUIgoSaAi77n__aCnYk-yotgo_cMGq/s1600/Barefoot+Man+Concert,+Guana+Cay+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC54m1i_C5d56GwILL2ZtV3_2f4uVVpx7YB4K2hhpvg85h1MmGtk6oF_5rQOhCbJcUOg9cUJEJqebPQW-YnxyrwYXPJbvAERQcahfFzWqhPnb_lKgUIgoSaAi77n__aCnYk-yotgo_cMGq/s320/Barefoot+Man+Concert,+Guana+Cay+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">"The Gang" at Barefoot Man Concert including Barefoot Man!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">The winds stayed up all night & the
wind generator worked all night. Cool
temps & breezy in the am as we prepared to attend the Barefoot Man Concert
(free) on Guana Cay at Nippers. We
listened as usual to SSB at 0630 hrs. & the Net; we are not entirely sure
what the upcoming cold front mid week will bring. The Ellis’ picked us up in their dinghy &
we were waiting at the ferry dock by Curly Tails by 0915 hrs. for the 1030 hrs.
ferry; we wanted to be sure to get a seat.
Albury put on 2 boats for this departure for the concert; ours left at
1015 hrs. The Sea of Abaco was quite
lumpy & those boats who left Marsh Harbour for Guana Cay had the wind on
their nose, while the boats leaving from Hopetown had a very tight close
haul/beat. A most beautiful view from
Nippers overlooking the Atlantic (top of the hill) of the waves rolling in
& crashing on shore. We grabbed a
table for 8 & this time I remembered to get a group picture including the
Barefoot Man himself. At 1300 hrs. the
concert & music began & the place was rocking till 1800 hrs. There were lots of college students on Spring
Break but more of us cruisers. Lots of
beers & Frozen Nippers were consumed.
We met up with people we had met in Vero, in the Exumas & here in
the Abacos. After the concert we said
our goodbyes to Joe & ‘Plumpuppet’ who are crossing the Whale tomorrow
& continuing so they can cross the Florida Straits/Gulf Stream to Ft.
Pierce on Sunday. We caught the last
ferry at 1830 hrs. back to Marsh Harbour; the winds had died mid afternoon
& the water was calm. What a great
day! A lovely sunset & the conch
blowers at Mangoes went nuts tonight. A
clear night, tremendous stars & a sliver moon shone crystal clear in the
sky. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKfS_ulsFIrqH0lAByMXMkpXHLE3bCH0KlFuLDFOG-lU63V-xhml_No4eBGCRo9w9LicRi29oevfifrHxPPxmMFY0s-aPxe4Asc8synOCnUFWTO_eE9CwN_haptgwB-Dtxm0oNp-QRWMC/s1600/Nippers,+Guana+Cay+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKfS_ulsFIrqH0lAByMXMkpXHLE3bCH0KlFuLDFOG-lU63V-xhml_No4eBGCRo9w9LicRi29oevfifrHxPPxmMFY0s-aPxe4Asc8synOCnUFWTO_eE9CwN_haptgwB-Dtxm0oNp-QRWMC/s320/Nippers,+Guana+Cay+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Before the Concert</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PuRoZkpAhXkc1JQpr_ZEZKMNG-nODRK9qNUKzYJShUlRTOa1ZFf_OUppsYzbxm94JzIjviXI7Swjx9iRZl13GofV31b8sBolDjeg_Lh0CmpsaQJodP7fWGbMBxYQNWSY4XiCAOVodanG/s1600/Barefoot+Man+Concert,+Guana+Cay+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PuRoZkpAhXkc1JQpr_ZEZKMNG-nODRK9qNUKzYJShUlRTOa1ZFf_OUppsYzbxm94JzIjviXI7Swjx9iRZl13GofV31b8sBolDjeg_Lh0CmpsaQJodP7fWGbMBxYQNWSY4XiCAOVodanG/s320/Barefoot+Man+Concert,+Guana+Cay+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">During the Concert</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b> </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: red;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat.
Mar. 16, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 165:</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Marsh Harbour
to Treasure Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0830 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
115 hrs.
<i>Distance: </i>14 NM<i>
<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> W 1-3K <i>Seas:</i> flat calm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cool am only
59F, sunny+++ & pleasantly warm daytime temps H= mid 70’s & L= 64F<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCgV1M3To5olrbYDoIXCWm6gKcjHkbyQrIwLoVLx5Zsto9OU3CAA2890tmX1BuxZLV0eIXwzvA109z5HkkT38GII0vLKWCjFWHwZHT_mbTP6kwRk1AdBt3zNwQ-1Kvnw0JkWcyRJTZNjFS/s1600/Treasure+Cay,+The+Whale+Cay+Channel,+Green+Turtle+Cay+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCgV1M3To5olrbYDoIXCWm6gKcjHkbyQrIwLoVLx5Zsto9OU3CAA2890tmX1BuxZLV0eIXwzvA109z5HkkT38GII0vLKWCjFWHwZHT_mbTP6kwRk1AdBt3zNwQ-1Kvnw0JkWcyRJTZNjFS/s320/Treasure+Cay,+The+Whale+Cay+Channel,+Green+Turtle+Cay+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Treasure Cay Beach at Low Tide</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds during the night shifted east
through west & calm calm. It
appears the weather forecast has changed some for the coming midweek per Chris’
report; I guess some internet research is in order, if possible of course,
because Bill made reservations for us for Tues. at Green Turtle Club which is
now a light & variable benign day.
We saw a dolphin close to shore just west of Harbourview Marina. Many boats left Marsh Harbour yesterday, some
of which went to Guana Cay. A few of us
left this am on a rising tide. The Whale
Channel was calm so as we made our way to Treasure Cay we could see a parade of
boats doing or had done the Whale. There
was no wind so we motored across the calm Sea of Abaco water. The crystal clear aqua coloured water (10-12
ft. depths) became cloudy aqua water about 2 miles from shore. Boats were leaving the anchorage as we
anchored. We sighted turtle(s) X 3,
almost running over 1 with the dinghy.
Early afternoon we tied our dinghies at the marina, walked the 2 strips
of shops; I was unaware of a largish grocery store. Then we walked the entire length of the beach
from the beach bar looking for shells & sand dollars on a falling tide. The water was cool until we reached the
sandbars & shallows at mid falling tide.
From here we had a view of the calm Whale Channel. We paid our $10.00 anchorage fee which gave
us garbage disposal, shower & pool privileges + WiFi (TC1 or TC2---
beach). I would love another day like
this to simply lie out on the beach & read.
Eleven boats in the anchorage tonight.
The sun set behind the land but was a blazing red with a red sky
following that appeared that it was on fire.
A sliver moon, stars+++ in a clear night sky. I saw a shooting star tonight!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun.
Mar. 17, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 166:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Treasure Cay
to Joyless Point, Green Turtle Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0910 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1240 hrs.
<i>Distance:</i> 15 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SE &
light, then clocking ie SW to WSW at sunset & NNW to SE at bedtime <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Seas:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> calm &
near flat<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> light cloud at
start of day but warm, & soon gloriously warm, sunny & blue skies<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC7HZK5qlMXkylfYVP6HYSGHc7WsoPtB9hORrf3Hhe1x8k7AecPkCRwE7c-UJ1XGXj0tBTS4uvd2Q3rpwwT8NvkLeTkVU3hQyuyghN2K8PDnZC81VbUXbMiuGkyMdIfxdTDiSZy7AcjLrW/s1600/Treasure+Cay,+The+Whale+Cay+Channel,+Green+Turtle+Cay+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC7HZK5qlMXkylfYVP6HYSGHc7WsoPtB9hORrf3Hhe1x8k7AecPkCRwE7c-UJ1XGXj0tBTS4uvd2Q3rpwwT8NvkLeTkVU3hQyuyghN2K8PDnZC81VbUXbMiuGkyMdIfxdTDiSZy7AcjLrW/s320/Treasure+Cay,+The+Whale+Cay+Channel,+Green+Turtle+Cay+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">The Whale Cay Channel at it's best!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Happy St. Patrick’s Day!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">No SSB today (Sunday) + unable to get
very much of Cruisers Net in Treasure Cay, but did hear Troy giving the weather
report. After up anchoring we stopped at
the fuel dock as we exited the anchorage (not a pretty landing) & added a
whole 2.1 gal. of diesel (a bit over $6.00/ gal.!) to the boat tank; then again
this was the last stop before getting diesel next in Florida. The Sea of Abaco & the Whale Cay Channel
were calm with maybe a 1 ft. swell, if that—well planned all! There were only an occasional low crashing
waves against Whale Cay, so very benign in a big way. With less than 5K of wind we motored from
treasure Cay, crossing the Whale at 1115 hrs.
& anchoring in a mix of sand & light grass tufts off Joyless
point, NW of White Sound & the channel leading to Green Turtle Club &
Bluff House Marina with 100 ft. chain in 10 ft. water. The water was so very clear here; we could
follow the anchor chain along the bottom to the anchor without a
look-bucket. We chilled for a couple of
hours of reading in the sun on deck. Mid
afternoon we dinghied slowly via the marked channel into White Sound to Green
Turtle Club, clearly seeing several large starfish on the bottom; we were
checking out the facilities as we had made reservations for tomorrow seeing
that the cold front was to arrive; cased out the ease of entry to our assigned slip
#11. A posh & expensive resort
especially drinks & food prices (1 beer + 1 rum drink= $16.00)! The 2 marinas here in White Sound were having
a March special whereby one can apply their meal expenses towards dockage fees
($1.50/ft.) & that was our reason for trying it out. We walked to Coco Bay & onto Ocean Beach
at low tide; a few small shells & fewer sea glass. We were back at the boat before sunset, just
as a bank of clouds moved in, yet we still had some pink evening sky. A light cloud cover tonight with ¼ moon &
a few stars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7gvJ15DeyyE7e4KN2DhI5khByIftyTLPZfutg5xcuT60ktpDTfjzDg1ypV7Xi7Oq5sFJX3Z4yTdvx2nRg2FUnh7zbR0VQ6M_kGVdgX85xeiOmbLBRfTbpR49wcUswS98pNcj0AKZS2bRE/s1600/Treasure+Cay,+The+Whale+Cay+Channel,+Green+Turtle+Cay+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7gvJ15DeyyE7e4KN2DhI5khByIftyTLPZfutg5xcuT60ktpDTfjzDg1ypV7Xi7Oq5sFJX3Z4yTdvx2nRg2FUnh7zbR0VQ6M_kGVdgX85xeiOmbLBRfTbpR49wcUswS98pNcj0AKZS2bRE/s320/Treasure+Cay,+The+Whale+Cay+Channel,+Green+Turtle+Cay+014.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">'Second Option' in the Whale </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></b></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon.
Mar. 18, 2013-- <span style="color: blue;">Day 167:</span></span></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b></b><br />
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Joyless Point,
Green Turtle Cay to Green Turtle Club</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 1055 hrs. <i>Arrival: Distance:<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S to SE, calm
at start & increased to 15K late am & 20K most of the rest of the day
with whitecaps even in the anchorage, then decreased to 10-12K at sundown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:
</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mix of sun & cloud with increased cloud
midday<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7YUDTrUXIo-1LAHFJy7TEfmTveV3jnln6Mox5fDAYoAWhD_S6eQaKzLmEyhxfmMgO9qbdwADuBtF85VNLPU4-Uu8zIFEu73x2NMhNa8R9bQXYH-sl-0RtZv_vUqebVay3t69APB8Gxha/s1600/Treasure+Cay,+The+Whale+Cay+Channel,+Green+Turtle+Cay+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7YUDTrUXIo-1LAHFJy7TEfmTveV3jnln6Mox5fDAYoAWhD_S6eQaKzLmEyhxfmMgO9qbdwADuBtF85VNLPU4-Uu8zIFEu73x2NMhNa8R9bQXYH-sl-0RtZv_vUqebVay3t69APB8Gxha/s320/Treasure+Cay,+The+Whale+Cay+Channel,+Green+Turtle+Cay+017.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A quiet calm night with near no wind;
the wind generator came on for a brief time predawn.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Chris was almost impossible to understand
this morning because there was so much interference; must be weather induced.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Graeme made out bits & pieces.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We heard weather from Cruisers Net &
that’s about all.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Some weight &
theraband exercises & reading most of the am till the tide rose enough that
we felt we could enter White Sound without going aground.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Donna & Walter (Wind Swept—Island Packet
38) dinghied by & stopped to say hello; they snorkeled No Name Cay
yesterday & off to snorkel the reef off Fiddle reef today; they are on a
mooring ball in Black Sound—shallow.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The
wind suddenly picked up as did the waves; whitecaps started to appear.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We up anchored & made our way to Green
Turtle Club where we had reservations (slip #11), 2 hrs. before high tide; we
saw 8 ft. at 1</span><sup>st</sup><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> channel markers (1</span><sup>st</sup><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> sign), 6.5 ft. at 1</span><sup>st</sup><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
mooring ball channel markers, then mostly 8 ft. until the entrance into the
sound’s anchorage area, 7 ft. & 12 ft. in the actual anchorage area. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Lots of excellent assistance dockside to tie
up.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">On registering we chose the ‘Free
Dockage Special’ ($1.50/ ft. & use the food & beverage purchases
towards dockage fees = $54.00, rather than $0.90/ft.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We had lunch at the Green Turtle Club =
$43.00 including 15% gratuity & then a few drinks later in the
afternoon.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Internet down!</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">I can’t believe it!</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In frustration I removed my bike from the
garage & rode to the point overlooking the area we anchored at last night
(quite lumpy!), to the Bluff House Marina & past the dump on the way to New
Plymouth to the Ocean Beach—no shells.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We were all too full from lunch, so no supper but all showered &
then played Mexican Train.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Cloudy at
sunset & cloudy & raining at night.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues.
Mar. 19, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 168:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Green Turtle
Club<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SSW to SW calm
to 8K, W late afternoon about 5K to flat calm, not a breath<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> warm &
muggy, cloudy & brief near sunny periods<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRlKC1iCN1ig3EHPMGSag4GAI2-P2FKC7S8m5OU79kzmgXux51TdbtSfC5N28Xw3QqkQHJ9C6GMtJs3aLcIdw25vcJm24VOAGAjQaQXej8aTlA0MBhXhKdGV9R9RSpA6Yrh-srnIoxJvz/s1600/Green+Turtle+Cay+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRlKC1iCN1ig3EHPMGSag4GAI2-P2FKC7S8m5OU79kzmgXux51TdbtSfC5N28Xw3QqkQHJ9C6GMtJs3aLcIdw25vcJm24VOAGAjQaQXej8aTlA0MBhXhKdGV9R9RSpA6Yrh-srnIoxJvz/s320/Green+Turtle+Cay+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">New Plymouth</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Light rain throughout the night with
periods of more steady rain.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A
discouraging weather report again for several days from Chris & from
Cruisers Net & changed from the day before + conflicting forecast from
internet sites.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The apparent cold front
today with predicted squalls & high winds did not materialize.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">On Wed.
night & Thurs. am we are to experience a converging of 2 cold fronts &
squalls; will that materialize?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Between
weather & my inability to bring up emails, I’m was totally frustrated,
impatient & had a great longing to be home.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We saw 2 dolphins swimming in the harbour
mid morning at breakfast; this is apparently a common phenomenon when the
waters are calm.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Threatening skies &
predicted squalls with high winds made us indecisive to dinghy to New Plymouth.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Once the office staff got me online I worked
on a few emails & added pictures to my blog.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Ellis’ did 1 load of laundry (?$4.50 per
load) from 1100-1500 hrs.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Mid afternoon
I cycled to New Plymouth, in & out of streets, cemetery, water front,
Gilman Beach (shoreline lined with lovely, brightly painted homes); a sore ass
& no sea glass, calm seas out on the Atlantic & the Sea of Abaco.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Lots of boats had moved into the marina
tonight.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We stayed another night because
of the pending weather, which did not happen & so applied a good breakfast ($28.
64) & amazing supper & wine ($74.07) at the restaurant towards our
dockage.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A clouded sunset, then some
clearing & blue sky with a red hue in the NW.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In the night sky a near ½ moon & few stars
were visible through the light cloud cover. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Xn1YWdHQRSYIV0BmrjufoJmh8wTakop3l2wo34Lpncu7xujO0BGP5ZV71vfHHfh-fa9qWhAxHWI0ICKf_qCjEUS4GYNfWg5vf8kX-l0lgtPyc_GcOi-zVUsjnExB-jt8ER1r7NcRpjp_/s1600/Green+Turtle+Cay+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Xn1YWdHQRSYIV0BmrjufoJmh8wTakop3l2wo34Lpncu7xujO0BGP5ZV71vfHHfh-fa9qWhAxHWI0ICKf_qCjEUS4GYNfWg5vf8kX-l0lgtPyc_GcOi-zVUsjnExB-jt8ER1r7NcRpjp_/s320/Green+Turtle+Cay+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-2919617549636208492013-03-14T11:15:00.005-07:002013-03-19T10:42:55.495-07:00Week 23: Mar. 6- 12, 2013 (Day 155- 161)<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: red;">Week 23:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Wed. Mar. 6, 2013—</span></b><b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Day 155:</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Marsh Harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> SW & calm to W at 20-30K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Seas: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> calm to wind driven short interval <1 ft.
to 2 ft. chop by midday, white caps of course<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> mainly sunny, some fair weather clouds, warm
in the sun but cool in the strong midday winds, more threatening clouds at sunset
to the north <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBhI2W5eEiTHGKWtiyz4rbZiqdw84ui82ZDNXYc2h-kuAmHgHEhA59gSUS8JsCrzMbb9UWO8V2mNNM-XOWq2r43rxe_WzyNpUmGqAt0K0_n_6zsCq1J2SmvAsZWSefaY_dl0QftN6pyDW/s1600/Marsh+Harbour+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBhI2W5eEiTHGKWtiyz4rbZiqdw84ui82ZDNXYc2h-kuAmHgHEhA59gSUS8JsCrzMbb9UWO8V2mNNM-XOWq2r43rxe_WzyNpUmGqAt0K0_n_6zsCq1J2SmvAsZWSefaY_dl0QftN6pyDW/s320/Marsh+Harbour+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Unique Marsh Harbour Residence</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">I guess the calm of night
& dawn was the calm before the storm.
By 0900-1000 hrs. there was an incremental increase in west winds, just
as Chris said in his synopsis. Because
it was near still calm at 0800 hrs. we had breakfast, I showered, washed the
dishes, made a sandwich for lunch, packed up my backpack, dressed in layers for
varied weather & temps & Graeme dropped me off at Mangoes. I had almost reached the ferry dock to take
the 0900 hrs. ferry to Hopetown as I was going to crew for Joe (Gemini—Tartan
3700) in the Hopetown race at 1055 hrs. when I received a phone call that the
race was cancelled/postponed till tomorrow.
My brisk walk became a more leisure touristy walk back. Now new arrangements were made with the
Ellis’—will take the 0900 hrs. ferry to Hopetown tomorrow for the day; if the
race is on, I will crew for Joe, otherwise we will enjoy a day there. By noon the winds were blowing from the west
at 20-30K, Brown Tips cancelled re diving our boat to check the anodes, I had
to quit cleaning the rust marks on the transom & the port deck & I
cancelled going to shore all because it
was too windy. The anchorage was a sea
of white. I am getting worn down re all
these extended cold fronts that lay us up for usually more than a week at a
time; boat bound & no activity, just sitting around reading, suduko, eating
& drinking & today concerned about a boat too close to us with these
weather conditions drives me a little carzy.
Dark clouds mostly to the north, a sunset & orangey sky. A clear,
dark, howling, windy night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Thurs. Mar. 7, 2013—</span></b><b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Day 156:</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Marsh Harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> N 15-20K, decreased to 12-14K early afternoon
& 10-12K after sunset <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Seas:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> 1-2 ft. waves out on the Sea of Abaco<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Mainly cloudy but frequent sunny breaks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrG6ul4egusHIRlS1if-LeMLfU5Y6EW74JxHSwwimb-Gq7SBRVFqPNS7xH0Qf0uodIog1-32gA0hMYqoc4fsGXzvYNa9pdrUd58V7xf1-BggkTcraDx4Wy9iWjhACYMYQ7CFg38_QOEkAT/s1600/Ferry+from+Marsh+Harbour+to+Hopetown+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrG6ul4egusHIRlS1if-LeMLfU5Y6EW74JxHSwwimb-Gq7SBRVFqPNS7xH0Qf0uodIog1-32gA0hMYqoc4fsGXzvYNa9pdrUd58V7xf1-BggkTcraDx4Wy9iWjhACYMYQ7CFg38_QOEkAT/s320/Ferry+from+Marsh+Harbour+to+Hopetown+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">On Hopetown Ferry</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ad78YW47w_1q92bSvKFPYwX7f25SUHJSVLti6kuVlKy7h7PjEY1ODdiwGR47dNnct3qOnOcXoqXz8urz5tihxEqszeYLraudNrcz-DUMP8fREgIlmB9ijVSg3Ed3_hotTyhHpCkbYe2t/s1600/Gemini+is+%25231%2521+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ad78YW47w_1q92bSvKFPYwX7f25SUHJSVLti6kuVlKy7h7PjEY1ODdiwGR47dNnct3qOnOcXoqXz8urz5tihxEqszeYLraudNrcz-DUMP8fREgIlmB9ijVSg3Ed3_hotTyhHpCkbYe2t/s320/Gemini+is+%25231%2521+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">The Gemini Race Team</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">The howling strong winds
settled some about 0200 hrs. & clocked more north of west, so by dawn the
anchorage was quite calm & the winds north.
It was difficult to hear Chris as there was a lot of background interference,
especially at some critical points.
Showers for both of us, breakfast & dishes done & by 0750 hrs. we
were dinghying to Tupps dinghy dock with Terri & Bill. The four of us walked about 1 mile to the
ferry dock (15-20 min.) & took the 0900 hrs. ferry to Hopetown ($27.00
return trip each). I met Joe, the race
was a go, so the others walked up & down & all around Hopetown while I
crewed for Joe along with Ray & Mike.
The 5 minute gun went off at 1055 hrs., we had a good start & were 1<sup>st</sup>
around the windward mark, 2<sup>nd</sup> around the jib & leeward marks,
then in the lead again at the windward mark & back to 2<sup>nd</sup> around
the leeward mark. The last &
windward leg was the best; we were able to point higher & Joe played the
lifts & knocks perfectly, the sails were trimmed near perfect against our
nearest competitor, a J95 suited with full carbon sails. Our other competitor, an Erickson, made a
tactical error & was out of the picture.
Those factors made the difference & we crossed the finish line 1<sup>st</sup>. On corrected time ? We had a victory beer then brought the boat
back to it’s mooring ball. Famished we
met Terri, Bill & Graeme & had lunch at about 1415 hrs. We spent the remaining 2 hrs. walking all the
places the 3 had done all day be</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">fore
catching the 1700 hrs. ferry back to Marsh Harbour. More walking & a dinghy ride back to the
boat just in time for the setting sun; a spectacular picture of the red sun in
a clear band just above a line of low clouds over the land. A red sky followed, then a mix of clear sky
& stars & some patchy cloud on another dark night.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gBTqfNaDYdwaHgiOBe9OWzhgiM1bihoG38r0u0HlyTxTDxBLQSK9O19v3A2abZsL9_DH-7zpaRdvcO2O5PgZKVTzJE5z_wVkVBFCm9CvUlUKs_LdNUctQqMlrVX7OQr3ee9yCe15TV6w/s1600/Hopetown+Lighthouse+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gBTqfNaDYdwaHgiOBe9OWzhgiM1bihoG38r0u0HlyTxTDxBLQSK9O19v3A2abZsL9_DH-7zpaRdvcO2O5PgZKVTzJE5z_wVkVBFCm9CvUlUKs_LdNUctQqMlrVX7OQr3ee9yCe15TV6w/s200/Hopetown+Lighthouse+025.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Hopetown Lighthouse</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV2pWyxsnxe4W0y3B0AxvoiYrBd2dcLTS0fIJPoB94G2xXY3rpJ-HK2VIq3y3odZ9zUMu9HeC_F5Thij325jsYHjzNC_Pq8aEqIvpKaEtRAZAkWsMRp28qIse1f_fDC29Dkoxa_QiFC0B9/s1600/Hopetown+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV2pWyxsnxe4W0y3B0AxvoiYrBd2dcLTS0fIJPoB94G2xXY3rpJ-HK2VIq3y3odZ9zUMu9HeC_F5Thij325jsYHjzNC_Pq8aEqIvpKaEtRAZAkWsMRp28qIse1f_fDC29Dkoxa_QiFC0B9/s200/Hopetown+010.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Colourful Hopetown</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri.
Mar. 8, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 157:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Marsh Harbour
to Scopley Rocks, Man-O-War Cay
<i>Departure:</i> 0915 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1035 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 5 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> N 10K to NNW
10-15K
Seas: 1-2 ft. & choppy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> partly sunny & cloudy, fresh temps with H= low 70’s & L= 60’ish <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZdMagyp4sU3HbrZisLUjo5cHgt726LOBg1eNQCg_BgqXS8aSccKED1gAFRqPAwX-DHIiwLYzdsN3RnG-9nal5lO1DoioBT1IsjjwM2gv-e-Zx59DzTUBtU7Hmhxq_1QZsYApVdo-fEW1/s1600/Beach+of+Man-O-War+Cay+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZdMagyp4sU3HbrZisLUjo5cHgt726LOBg1eNQCg_BgqXS8aSccKED1gAFRqPAwX-DHIiwLYzdsN3RnG-9nal5lO1DoioBT1IsjjwM2gv-e-Zx59DzTUBtU7Hmhxq_1QZsYApVdo-fEW1/s320/Beach+of+Man-O-War+Cay+029.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Man-O-War Cay Atlantic Beach</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Good quiet night & solid sleep. Terrible interference on SSB at 0630 hrs. for
weather. Joe hailed us with race
results—we finished FIRST! As we prepared
for departure we had VHF chats with ‘Plumpuppet’ (moving somewhere tomorrow)
& ‘Whiski Mak’ (moving south to Little Harbour today). Small whitecap chop on some of the less than
1 ft. waves. We were motoring along
about 30 degrees off the wind & no attempt made to try to sail (?). We took a look see only at the anchorage off
the beach above Scopley Rocks, but Graeme thought it was too shallow; how did
we anchor in there 2 yrs. ago? We
dropped the anchor at Scopley Rocks but to near the cable so reanchored—100 ft.
chain in 10 ft. water. After noontime we
dinghied to Man-O-War Cay Marina dinghy dock then walked Bay St., then up &
over the hill to the beach; we beach walked to the south end, visited the
cemetery, & a local took Terri & I in her golf cart to the bakery; we
had passed it as there was no sign but close & across from the
cemetery. The marina restaurant closed
for lunch at 1430 hrs. so we had to settle for an ice cream cone. Near 1600 hrs. we dinghied back to the boat;
a semi wet ride as the seas had increased & of the rolling & choppy
kind. We had a Skippers Meeting &
decided a tentative plan for the next few days
so we would be back in Marsh Harbour on Wed. Mar. 13<sup>th</sup> &
ferry to Guana Cay to the Barefoot Man Concert on Mar. 15<sup>th</sup>. A very bouncy evening; I wonder how much
sleep anyone will get tonight? We lifted
the dinghy. The sun set behind clouds,
but a red sky occurred above the low cloud cover. Mainly clear skies with stars on another dark
night. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat.
Mar. 9, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 158:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Man-O-War Cay
to Tavern Cay, southern anchorage, Tilloo Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0800 hrs. <i>Arrival: </i> 1015 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 11 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> N 10-15K <i>Seas:</i>
1 ft. & whitecaps<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mix of sun
& clouds, cold—H= maybe 70F & L= 61F <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTbPw69w1Hapn5JXasMRyLp19HcuPzA2QnNcD858FVmDcfJ_kmjRZq_J_rlTT0_hnBoy7DVgUM9pY0uKOmfcY-nUS_4jC06K0HJJ8iqqRrcWK0SfTKsPTkdn533r9aXtgBZRVEfRkaoEA/s1600/Tavern+Cay,+Abacos+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTbPw69w1Hapn5JXasMRyLp19HcuPzA2QnNcD858FVmDcfJ_kmjRZq_J_rlTT0_hnBoy7DVgUM9pY0uKOmfcY-nUS_4jC06K0HJJ8iqqRrcWK0SfTKsPTkdn533r9aXtgBZRVEfRkaoEA/s320/Tavern+Cay,+Abacos+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Tavern/ Tilloo Cay</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy Birthday Maureen!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Large swells are expected in the Bahamas
for several days because of massive area of gale force winds off the
Carolinas—the reason for the bouncy night last night; nevertheless I
slept. Chris was much clearer this am
but he did not have encouraging news re weather. Although we made a plan for several days we
will alter them daily as required. It
has been so discouraging with all these fronts & weather too cold for
swimming/snorkeling or even reading on deck & too windy; as the months pass
I feel so boat bound & want to be home.
We listened to the Cruisers Net as we were underway to Tavern Cay. Due to the wind direction the northern
anchorage was too unprotected & experiencing whitecaps & waves + swells
from Tilloo Cut. Thus we were the 1<sup>st</sup>
2 boats that anchored in the southern anchorage with 100 ft. chain in 11 ft.
water in a falling tide; other boats both sail & trawlers pulled in during
the day for a total of 10 by sunset. A
clouded sunset with few patches of red sky & mix of cloud & clear sky
with stars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun.
Mar. 10, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 159:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Tavern Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NNE
10-15K <i>Seas:</i>
<1 ft. to 1 ft crossing to Tahiti Beach, light whitecaps<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">heavy
cloud with few sunny periods, very cool, H= 70F if that & L= 60F <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWD1f0ltqPLqhwSD65VkoV1bdA2Ox7Bl89EANAB8A82IyIPqg8rzdHLnJ0Xt8Te5bNUZ0h07B1-AvXciDEYytr0bkB8U8sKP3T0A4V18Cz4yBTs4e1rXpCm4E3Px4_BJFHH-Ngno7LTVT/s1600/Tilloo+Cut,+Abacos+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWD1f0ltqPLqhwSD65VkoV1bdA2Ox7Bl89EANAB8A82IyIPqg8rzdHLnJ0Xt8Te5bNUZ0h07B1-AvXciDEYytr0bkB8U8sKP3T0A4V18Cz4yBTs4e1rXpCm4E3Px4_BJFHH-Ngno7LTVT/s320/Tilloo+Cut,+Abacos+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Tilloo Cut</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHU1yv_UD7Lb5kCxXmsK6KUGtizItZ2EujUg02dinY4CYqOz00RVu-CVCP4gzjKVVm0JklSTk1MtNUkKneTplzc5fTlSDKZ_BMFwFH7vWg81OaAowzTzUEuC8lT_iOe3RJ9MwYtoUpW3z/s1600/Tahiti+Beach,+Elbow+Cay,+Abacos+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHU1yv_UD7Lb5kCxXmsK6KUGtizItZ2EujUg02dinY4CYqOz00RVu-CVCP4gzjKVVm0JklSTk1MtNUkKneTplzc5fTlSDKZ_BMFwFH7vWg81OaAowzTzUEuC8lT_iOe3RJ9MwYtoUpW3z/s320/Tahiti+Beach,+Elbow+Cay,+Abacos+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Tahiti Beach at Low Tide</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Daylight Saving Time, so we lost 1 hr.
of sleep, but then again being Sunday we did not have to rise early to listen
to 0630 hrs. SSB. The wind generator
worked all night but the water was calm as the winds shifted slightly easterly
to NNE. Rage conditions at all the cuts
were reported today; the Net asked that no one attempt a departure, as they have
had 2 deaths in similar conditions. The
American Embassy in Nassau asked Americans not to go out. These cold & windy conditions have not
been good for local dive operations; in fact Troy of Dive Guana sounded down
today on the Net. And no improvement is
expected all week. It has been nearly 2
weeks since we crossed to Abacos & weather & temps have been the pits;
it may have been better to stay in the Exumas.
Late am we climbed into the dinghy & explored the shoreline of
Tavern Cay, south then north, where we saw 2 large starfish. We then crossed to Tahiti Beach at low tide,
beaching the dinghy on the spit of sand, chatted with a few people & picked
a few small shells. To the east & in
the distance we could see the rage conditions at Tilloo Cut; the waves were
rolling & crashing against, up & sometimes over the rocky shore. I wanted to walk Elbow Cay up the road toward
the east shore to get a look at the Atlantic but was out voted & so we
dinghied across to Lubbers Quarters & passed Cracker P’s & Lubbers
Landing, returning to the boat mid pm.
Afterwards & for the rest of the afternoon till after sunset over to
‘Second Option’ where Graeme & I tried to remember the rules & teach
Terri & Bill the game Mexican Train, as we munched on poppycock &
popcorn & beverage of our choice.
There were only 3 boats here tonight.
A clouded sunset but an orangey red sky.
A few clouds this dark night but amazing stars in the clear areas of the
sky. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon.
Mar. 11, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 160:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Tavern Cay to
Marsh Harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0910 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i>
1150 hrs.
<i>Distance:</i> 14 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E to SE by
sunset at 5-10K <i>Seas:</i>
1 ft. or less with occasional whitecaps<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mix of sun
& cloud but it felt warmer, H= low 70’s & L= mid 60’s<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSFnX7H9ftYhkInqELqqtvtiA83AWAbTS0NmpnJOpcaeV_NL1gugXRJc_4dUoyFl6sJ-Ic8FW5gy5eQ_ll5Rj1hJhxICnrx1bBiJ9Zlsrp_qDabfQhe9KLW0JJnF7Q6Su58jt1EHH2Hd6/s1600/Marsh+Harbour+Sunset+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSFnX7H9ftYhkInqELqqtvtiA83AWAbTS0NmpnJOpcaeV_NL1gugXRJc_4dUoyFl6sJ-Ic8FW5gy5eQ_ll5Rj1hJhxICnrx1bBiJ9Zlsrp_qDabfQhe9KLW0JJnF7Q6Su58jt1EHH2Hd6/s320/Marsh+Harbour+Sunset+026.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">A Marsh Harbour Sunset</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy 65<sup>th</sup> Birthday Lynn!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The winds gusted up & down during
the night & shifted from NNE to E by dawn.
It seemed that Chris had a slightly new schedule for Spring DST—SSB 4045:
0630-0700 hrs., 8104: 0700-0800 hrs. & again 4045: 0800-0900 hrs. & this
morning he seemed more attentive to time.
And yup a massive cold front was on it’s way & the sea swells were
still horrendous. After the Net we up
anchored & motorsailed with the jenny only as the wind direction &
required route around Lubbers Bank dictated.
We anchored near the same spot as last week in Marsh Harbour—80 ft.
chain in 7.4 ft water 2 hrs. before low tide.
Mid afternoon we dinghied to Tupps dinghy dock, disposed of our bag of
garbage & connected to internet for myself while Graeme refilled 1 water
jerry can, emptied 1 diesel jerry can into the boat tank & filled the
dinghy engine tank. We met up with Joe
doing his laundry at Mangoes, then Terri & Bill for drinks. After a quick supper we dinghied to ‘Second
Option’ & phoned Lynn to express birthday wishes to her on her 65<sup>th</sup>. We reminisced our travels thusfar, discussed
plans for tomorrow & the next few days & plans & expectations for
crossing back to the USA. A clouded
sunset & heavy threatening clouds advancing from the east which seemed to
dissipate, so the dark night sky was clear filled with stars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues.
Mar. 12, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 161:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:
</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Marsh Harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S 10-15K <i>Seas:
</i>minimum chop<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny &
cloudy mix, warm & humid, H= low to mid 70’sF & low = upper 60’s<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDfFS5iclOgKkvl1T99P9J46s2A2AgQtDePQeZUraFgeuHrhiRXDZJwmLg4cRmN6yAUDUwpD9ltM2kMXGJC4Z_yIN2IGGwbctHF1hLAz36VC7qVYBxcBEKNtBT4e5XcgRLv-B9AxmISET/s1600/Marsh+Harbour+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDfFS5iclOgKkvl1T99P9J46s2A2AgQtDePQeZUraFgeuHrhiRXDZJwmLg4cRmN6yAUDUwpD9ltM2kMXGJC4Z_yIN2IGGwbctHF1hLAz36VC7qVYBxcBEKNtBT4e5XcgRLv-B9AxmISET/s320/Marsh+Harbour+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy Birthday Donna!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">I slept soundly through a quiet night,
waking just before 0630 hrs. Although
reception was surprisingly fine for Chris, our unit’s batteries suddenly died;
when replaced then the unit needed resetting, so we missed weather predictions. We did listen to the Net. To the Conch Inn Marina for 1 jerry can each
of diesel & gas; there we met Canadians from Blind River who just finished
a charter & gave us the remains of their provisions. Mid am to shore to hopefully Skype my sister
& post my blog & pics but the internet was on & off mostly, &
when on was super, super slow—CRAP! To
the Jib Room at 1300 hrs. to really learn the rules of Mexican Train as we
played along; 2 tables of 5 & 6 players respectively; our table didn’t
finish till 1615 hrs. First pizza night
with happy hour drink specials was held at Mangoes from 1730-1900 hrs.; in
attendance was Gemini, Plumpuppet, Second Option. Whiski Mak & ourselves—a
superb time! A partial cloudy sunset
with a red hue on the underside of mackerel clouds. Stars, stars & more stars in the many
clear patches in the sky.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-71713398983723792582013-02-28T18:05:00.004-08:002013-03-19T10:53:24.516-07:00Week 22: Feb. 27- Mar. 5, 2013 (Day 148-154)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red;">Week 22:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Wed. Feb. 27,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 148:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Marsh Harbour</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> SW to NM 5-8K</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> partly sunny & cloudy, dark threatening
rain clouds passing overhead</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Gb2wDEAGTNj4Xma1R94IY54p1sNYGhlhY512faEHWSoA9lhIwu6BXo-hlkey_2ghUu9N4jpyASoDXrb_8BXN_bXkGeal4gY6TwWsbHNW5oad6jstWS8CuBkGBMIP3u-UH3Ht0tqXPv-s/s1600/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Gb2wDEAGTNj4Xma1R94IY54p1sNYGhlhY512faEHWSoA9lhIwu6BXo-hlkey_2ghUu9N4jpyASoDXrb_8BXN_bXkGeal4gY6TwWsbHNW5oad6jstWS8CuBkGBMIP3u-UH3Ht0tqXPv-s/s320/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Even though we weren’t moving we listened to SSB weather
followed by Abaco Net; strong north & westerlies are coming Sat. night,
Sun. into Mon. On our way to shore with
Terri & Bill to the new dinghy dock at Union Jack, we dropped in to say
hello to Janet & David Moore (Whiski Mak- met in 2008-09). We gave the grand tour of the commercial
& downtown area of Marsh Harbour, meeting Barb & Ken for lunch at
Juvenia, then onto Maxwell’s Supermarket.
While the Ellis’ picked up their newly purchased internet booster antenna
& router from Out Island Inter.Net &
received all instructions from Chris & Crystal, & Graeme purchased yet
more booze, I got my hair trimmed at Katherine’s ($10.00); once again the lower
back was shaved too short, I think the rest is O.K. Black rain clouds to the SW mostly passed us
as we only received a short sprinkling.
We brought drinks only over to ‘Second Option’ as all of us we stuffed
from lunch & chatted about a myriad of topics, including whether to go
elsewhere for a couple of days before the blow this weekend then return; since
we were in a good location amongst the big fleet of boats here, the anchor
secured for several days before the weekend & the possible lack of space at
Treasure Cay &/or Hopetown, it was unanimously to stay put. A clouded
sunset, some pink sky followed & light cloud cover in the night sky with clearing periods
& a full moon that was quite visible.
What was more evident was the mass of anchor lights again tonight.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Thurs. Feb. 28,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 149:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Marsh Harbour</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> NW light & variable strength during the
day to max. 10K</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> mainly cloudy with few sunny periods, dryer
& cooler air</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7FdkhCwiMLvzRNz2DpIiSWAwG6U3_UNKWbW6NoSk4XcTTr-WyUlibDGbllUIvoJwwoGu2Dc4FUrExNNkMPgrGbsIBXnkjujyXug2nNYCRJF6f0IqcCpnDWt1EJrZvIV0zWxx7y7NiNdv/s1600/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7FdkhCwiMLvzRNz2DpIiSWAwG6U3_UNKWbW6NoSk4XcTTr-WyUlibDGbllUIvoJwwoGu2Dc4FUrExNNkMPgrGbsIBXnkjujyXug2nNYCRJF6f0IqcCpnDWt1EJrZvIV0zWxx7y7NiNdv/s320/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Some rain fell in the middle of the night but otherwise
calm. The weather predictions for the
coming days were much the same. We did
not listen to the Cruisers Net at 0815 hrs. as we tied up the dinghies at Tubbs
dinghy dock & went to Mangoes for a croissant & coffee breakfast with ‘Plumpuppet’
& ‘Second Option’. Most of the shops
on Restaurant Row open at 1000 hrs. so we dropped into Out Island Inter.Net for
Terri & Bill to ask their few questions & then to the hardware store
for PVC pipe to raise their internet antenna.
Then it was browsing in & out of the shops along Restaurant Row,
stopping for a beer to quench our thirst at midtime. Once the window shopping was done, I fast
walked to the Post Office on Don MacKay Blvd. to post a birthday card for my
sister, then rejoined the group at Mangoes.
It was already 1530 hrs.; as small bite to eat for lunch back home. Then
we were off to visit ‘Whiski Mak’ at Marsh Harbour Yacht Club as they had taken
a slip for the blow; the Jib Room hosted a cruisers’ potluck happy hour. ‘Plumpuppet’ had filled their water &
diesel tanks & reanchored close to the west side of the harbour. Some pink sky after sunset. A dark night with stars & some cloud but
no moon till much later.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Fri. Mar. 1, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 150:</span><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination: </i> Marsh Harbour</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> WNW 10-12K</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> cloudy, cool, with light rainy period after
sunset</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVvreeKEv4mFlxxPJ_lcN5n8IsuB2gDn1HBUtAGkh0-b7FFLiOBYKPU5-nPSGqtbghAb1AZCz5MgdtAxWHnYJhzeFW6xkjK3rjo6JCefhgzGLFNRTTEa0oJ-olQLK9jT3Zxzhdb2j3t7x_/s1600/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVvreeKEv4mFlxxPJ_lcN5n8IsuB2gDn1HBUtAGkh0-b7FFLiOBYKPU5-nPSGqtbghAb1AZCz5MgdtAxWHnYJhzeFW6xkjK3rjo6JCefhgzGLFNRTTEa0oJ-olQLK9jT3Zxzhdb2j3t7x_/s320/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Hours, days, weeks & months have not marched but
galloped by--- this is March! The north
& westerly winds continued today & are to continue, but seem to have
been downgraded some in strength for the weekend; but a secondary stronger
front (aftermath) is predicted on Wed. according to Chris. He believes this to be the last persistent
front X 2 weeks with lots of cold air, then strong winds in April returning to
the more normal northerly & easterly trades. A banana pancake breakfast for a nice change. We dinghied to ‘Second Option’ with computer
since I was unable to connect from the distance between our boats &
definitely had no problem to connect to their router on their boat. Onshore we walked to a couple of shops on
Restaurant Row (Tupps & Iggy Biggy) then to see the Laundromat (still only
cold water but working on it & fewer number of machines), next door to
Save-A –Lot, followed by BTC (no English phone instructions & no charge for
receiving text messages, but for sending a text message=$0.15/ international
text & $0.05 for local) & Maxwells Supermarket; Graeme was on his
own. Back on the boat I started prepping
for the dinner party we were hosting with ‘Plumpuppet’ & ‘Second
Option’. Graeme had made arrangements
with Mangoes Marina for storing & locking my bike, replenishing water jugs,
internet privileges & possibly laundry for a fee. Thus we were off to shore with bike &
computer. We had difficulty for some
reason connecting to the internet, yet on the boat we had no problems; I left
Graeme to ask for assistance & work on his emails while I cycled to BTC to
register my Bahamian phone so that I may purchase time online, even $1.00, at
the end of current service date before the end of every 3 mons. to keep my
phone activated & not have to purchase a new SIM card ($14.95) & maintain the same number. When I returned a RESET had been activated on
my computer; I lost my taskbar (lower right corner icons), my homepage & my
toolbar; I was <u>thoroughly</u> pissed off!
A RESTORE was tried that retrieved my taskbar only; more assistance
required tomorrow. We scrambled back to
the boat as it was now 1630 hrs. & dinner guests were arriving after 1700
hrs. A great evening! Thank you Terri & Bill for the broccoli
to accompany the Thai Coconut Chicken
& rice I prepared & Barb & Ken for the brownies for
dessert! A clouded sunset, but there was
a conch blowing competition across the harbour between Marsh Harbour Yacht Club
& Mangoes; MHYC were clear winners; in fact they were spectacular. A clouded night sky—no stars, no moon, just
illumination of bright anchor lights.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Sat. Mar. 2, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 151:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Marsh Harbour</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> W 10K, increasing 15-20K <i>Seas:</i> 1 ft. waves, white caps</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> cloudy, cold, periodic rain showers
especially in the afternoon, H= 68F & L=58F</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjwvs_ZLXPFxuxq_IZY3E8y_hsTATUq99SnWtckhWS8US_jWQeCz0bLEit4ok3ST2tOOEC1Hlzet4UAoMwhxE4zA0IhiFOCuJoWH6TK4rLBFlY1aRWHyr8umRTfk8woVPndVNbTO6kNrh/s1600/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjwvs_ZLXPFxuxq_IZY3E8y_hsTATUq99SnWtckhWS8US_jWQeCz0bLEit4ok3ST2tOOEC1Hlzet4UAoMwhxE4zA0IhiFOCuJoWH6TK4rLBFlY1aRWHyr8umRTfk8woVPndVNbTO6kNrh/s320/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">This is a typical picture of cruisers coming & going from shore</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Grey, miserable & nasty—words of the day. My long sleeve T’s & sweat pants were all
packed away. Locals were walking about
all bundled up wearing tuques. According
to Chris, what you see is what you get for the next 36 hrs. On a positive note, there will be relief Mon.
& Tues. then again Fri. & onwards.
No sun today, therefore the wind generator was called upon to do it’s
magic especially with the strong winds—not too bad a job. Another new host of the Cruisers’ Net again
this am; it is wonderful that several people have stepped up & take turns
& thus reduce the workload; it is a terrific service to the cruising
world. Mid morning to Mangoes, where
Graeme rode my bike to the Yamaha shop a few miles away for a new anode for the
dinghy engine, but the shop was closed. I worked with the help of Ryan to
restore my homepage, delete some of the start-up programs, uninstall &
reinstall Google Chrome; not many emails so I was able to edit Week 21 & 22
of my blog & insert pictures. Back
on the boat we sat around reading, finishing yet another novel & starting
another & doing suduko, pulling on socks & wrapping a blanket around my
feet & legs trying to keep warm; I even thought of making some hot
chocolate. The temperature was steadily
decreasing from 20C to 16C. It has been
months since we have had the boat totally closed up to preserve warmth. No sunset, no stars, no moon this evening. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Sun. Mar. 3, 2013— </span></b><b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: blue;">Day 152:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Marsh Harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> NW 20K +/- <i>Seas:</i>
1 to 1-1/2ft. waves, white caps<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> cloudy to start & not as grey as
yesterday, then sunny periods, H= 66F & L= mid 50’sF<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Yup, we had to throw the
duvet over us last night! The howling
winds increased to 20K+. A cold shower,
no SSB weather as it was Sunday & no Cruisers net as Graeme dinghied me to
shore to catch the bus about 0830 hrs. going to St. Francis de Sales R.C.
Church (0900 hrs) via RMHYC & the Haitian community known as the Mudd. Graeme filled 2 jerry cans of water. A slightly wet dinghy ride home (full fowl
weather gear) against a cold wind. The
sun showed it’s face much more than yesterday, therefore the solar panels took
the lead today as far as charging the batteries but in conjunction with the
wind generator the results were better today.
Most establishments ie shops are closed on Sundays; Maxwells is open
0900-1200 hrs. I decided to bake some
blueberry muffins to add some warmth to the cabin. A lazy afternoon of reading, napping &
more reading in the cockpit as the sun warmed the cockpit nicely. Terri & Bill worked on their income tax
returns. But feeling some cabin fever +
butt sores from sitting too long, we invited ourselves over to ‘Second Option’
enjoying a couple of hours in their sun warmed cockpit. Graeme pointed out to us the cold weather
clouds passing us by. Candles were light
for their slight warming effect. There
was clearly sunset tonight but it occurred behind land; a lovely orangey sky
followed. We were certainly back to the
much to customary rocking motion of the boat, the tugging sound of the anchor
especially during the late night hours & the howling winds. I must say when I get on land I have waves of
unsteadiness, mild fuzziness in the head & an almost dizziness of
vision. It was a clear dark night,
stars+++ in the sky, no moon until after midnight & a ½ moon at that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Mon. Mar. 4, 2013— </span></b><b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: blue;">Day 153:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Marsh Harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">NNW to N 15K, decreasing to 10K <i>Seas:</i> 1 ft. waves & white caps to minimum waves<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> sun, blue sky with few clouds during the day<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGRy9duVC3uaoZ-Vxth9JzRxVWhqRA9mjhz4NfVgENKABawBbUDXTlI21sTx6FyA6lg8vGcSsv8HlizH2FaHyBSupzRltHiMzWRnvNqS8rS5D4G9eqC80LB-P1E1aYjZpq7ZXwk7IDfMck/s1600/View+of+the+Sea+of+Abaco++001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGRy9duVC3uaoZ-Vxth9JzRxVWhqRA9mjhz4NfVgENKABawBbUDXTlI21sTx6FyA6lg8vGcSsv8HlizH2FaHyBSupzRltHiMzWRnvNqS8rS5D4G9eqC80LB-P1E1aYjZpq7ZXwk7IDfMck/s320/View+of+the+Sea+of+Abaco++001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Although cold, the sun
shone in the blue sky & it’s warming effect was felt in the enclosure &
the cabin. Graeme rode the bike to Marsh
Harbour Boatyard (about 3 mi.) & purchased his water pump fan belt
(M19—bought 2= $33.00). After connecting
up my computers to electricity to charge, Terri, Bill & I walked to &
all around Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club; the Sea of Abaco on this side was
quite calm. We carried on to Scaggs
& split the purchase of 4 individually wrapped lobster tails ($19.00). Up the hill passed the beach, lovely homes
& rental housing & the snorkeling site called Mermaid Reef we could see
the rough & trubulent Sea of Abaco with 4 ft. waves from this north
westerly direction. We arrived &
checked out Marsh Harbour Marina & The Jib Room; Bill checked for the availability
of slips ($0.80 for 2 days or longer but full) & ability for diesel &
water fill up. Finally the long walk
back to Mangoes for a well deserved Kalik.
Bill & I inquired at Harbourview Marina price of diesel ($5.72)
water ($0.20/gal.) & ease of accessibility.
I then worked on the internet & posting a bit more of my blog. The wind & waves had died & a few new
boats had arrived in the anchorage, one that anchored too close for the
upcoming blow; wonder if they move? Not!
We called a gathering of friends for a
drink at The Jib Room—‘Plumpuppet’, ‘Second Option’ & ‘Whiski Mak’. A lovely sun set behind the land, then a
brilliant orangey red sky filled the clear sky.
The night sky was clear & filled of stars & anchor lights & there
was a distinct fresh smell to the air; a late rising ½ moon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Tues. Mar. 5, 2013—<span style="color: blue;"> </span></span></b><b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: blue;">Day 154:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Marsh Harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> S to N to E to ESE to S to SSW 10K to calm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> mainly sunny & warmer than last 3 days<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbtvTIgnLKMDIjpeLNo9ff_t8Hts3tqWNY27X6dPQzKZSl7sKSaI8R4ZgUhVOfpqCiAhg0TJhTYBLBsofSRe2dz5yXO-yh93AfztNErSjfRZZj-_zb4cHY_KAhK2Z8mx0CGmqK4z3REg-G/s1600/Marsh+Harbour+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbtvTIgnLKMDIjpeLNo9ff_t8Hts3tqWNY27X6dPQzKZSl7sKSaI8R4ZgUhVOfpqCiAhg0TJhTYBLBsofSRe2dz5yXO-yh93AfztNErSjfRZZj-_zb4cHY_KAhK2Z8mx0CGmqK4z3REg-G/s320/Marsh+Harbour+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Laundry Day & no foul weather gear!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">What a difference a day
makes! No howling winds, only calm
waters! A simple glorious, stupendous
day! And everyone came out of the
woodwork to do laundry. In our case it
was simply because there was no fear of clean laundry getting wet with sea
water. Unfortunately this was to be the
one day of reprieve; Chris re-confirmed that a fast moving cold front would
come through Wed. & Thurs., but this would be the last strong westerly
& extended cold front for a while.
The laundry was organized, garbage, computer, 1 empty water jerry can
were loaded into the dinghy; of course at the last minute Graeme decided to add
diesel from the jerry can to the boat tank.
Thankfully we didn’t arrive at Mangoes a minute later, so I was able to
grab the 2 washers before others, followed by 1 more wash load, then 2-55
minute dryers; 5 loads X $3.50 = $17.50 (tokens from office). While doing laundry I was able to work on the
internet under the gazebo. What a waste
of another super fantastic day doing laundry!
Afterwards Graeme worked on his emails & I cycled to Maxwells for a
few groceries in anticipation of a Thurs. departure to explore other areas of
the Sea of Abaco. No bananas, no bread,
& so I stopped at Island Bakery & purchased a raisin cinnamon & a
coconut bread, which we split with the Ellis’ ($3.20/ loaf). The Mailboat for Marsh Harbour arrives &
the shelves are stocked every Wednesday.
Quickly as I held the bow & stern lines of the dinghy, Graeme
scrubbed the boat’s water line—lots of dirty & green slime. Dixie & Rex (Wonderland—Dolphin 46) had
us over for a lovely evening; a gorgeous & spacious catamaran, decorated
with simplistic class. Rex admitted
their proximity to us especially when facing east, but were very congenial
about the situation & will monitor & move accordingly. A phenomenal sunset, red sky with contrasting
cold weather clouds, then a clear dark night illuminated with zillions of stars
& anchor lights. A 1/3 moon visible
near dawn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-84196280682450542482013-02-23T18:07:00.004-08:002013-03-02T10:44:57.404-08:00Week 21: Feb. 20- 26, 2013 (Day 141-147)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 21: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Feb. 20, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
141:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rock Sound to Governors Harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0755 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1305 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 23.06 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE 5K increasing to 8K
Seas: calm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> glorious day of sunshine & few scattered
clouds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDtwp_dkD_LjpObaFiQBG6SsEEErqYVByMDdaX84WCiLynW3TRcU70RvBH4MArkgaX06-DSpHF60umBLPMHu_imuMTpXKhRfZLXhiMaf7FTqpyjgxA2WXLfIyV-8T225sU6fFYefptWCP4/s1600/Eleuthera+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDtwp_dkD_LjpObaFiQBG6SsEEErqYVByMDdaX84WCiLynW3TRcU70RvBH4MArkgaX06-DSpHF60umBLPMHu_imuMTpXKhRfZLXhiMaf7FTqpyjgxA2WXLfIyV-8T225sU6fFYefptWCP4/s320/Eleuthera+050.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">'Second Option'-- Hunter 45.5</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgktkKd1cBdtsr-sPuFMxGGxC32bUHnSuza3Q07AApn2kGpl8VhvO-B7wmYhUnNfMFhe76zIXJpLRBXvenLSWMzcd07Y6i31FvQFscQygW-0bnBjD_DhITdERIy9Fxrnxbiqw5Kx8XamWX1/s1600/Eleuthera+061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgktkKd1cBdtsr-sPuFMxGGxC32bUHnSuza3Q07AApn2kGpl8VhvO-B7wmYhUnNfMFhe76zIXJpLRBXvenLSWMzcd07Y6i31FvQFscQygW-0bnBjD_DhITdERIy9Fxrnxbiqw5Kx8XamWX1/s320/Eleuthera+061.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Terri & Bill checking anchor with look bucket</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">An incredibly calm quiet
night; mirror water this morning—wouldn’t you know it! We were certainly anchored well in sand; the
chain & anchor required a wash down of the caked sand. A few boats left yesterday, but most of us
left this am. At low tide we motored out
to Sound Point waypoint, then it was coral head watch out to Kemp Point
waypoint where we turned more north & beyond. We saw a shark hovering around the periphery
of a coral patch & further along a huge turtle & finally dolphins
swimming amongst the boats anchored in Governors Harbour. The winds had shifted & increased in
intensity enough that we were able to fly the jenny—cruising speed a whapping
5.5K. It was such a calm glorious day I
was able to lie out on the deck & read.
We anchored at low rising tide laying 130 ft. chain in 14 ft. water, as
the bottom is hard & holding is not known to be the greatest; we checked
the anchor with the look bucket. First
stop ashore was the bakery (0700-1700 hrs. each day & closed on Sunday),
then we walked a couple of the main streets, but all the bars & restaurants
were closed; is this because it was Wed.?
Happy hour on ‘Second Option’; their fridge is not working as it should
once again. We were entertained with
Junkanoo practice music for an hour after supper; I believe there was an announcement on the radio that this Sat. was their annual fund raiser. A
glorious sunset with perfect conditions for a green flash, but that was not the
case. A spectacular red sky. A 2/3 moon was visible during the afternoon
& particularly bright in the evening sky & a clear night sky of stars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Feb. 21, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
142:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Governors Harbour to Twin Sisters Beach,
Glass Window<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure: 0805 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1235 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 22 NM <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 10-18K increasing by evening to ENE to E
15-20K <i>Seas:</i> max. 1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny, blue skies & clouds late pm near
sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlARMa68yzjn4QYxZLdQJrmVJlcJ8rOkRNvQ-mDPYCVqDX1VUR5z_d1mwjZzdLrS8_lTcNu_fyrvev43Tby7dw3Zj-vV0CuJDCOwXLcyCEmtHCa0bsnpzJThWV6_JYdSpIk4ouJ8HwkDi/s1600/Eleuthera+065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlARMa68yzjn4QYxZLdQJrmVJlcJ8rOkRNvQ-mDPYCVqDX1VUR5z_d1mwjZzdLrS8_lTcNu_fyrvev43Tby7dw3Zj-vV0CuJDCOwXLcyCEmtHCa0bsnpzJThWV6_JYdSpIk4ouJ8HwkDi/s320/Eleuthera+065.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Glass Window</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Incredible interference
noise with Chris Parker’s broadcast that was most annoying as well as it made
it very difficult to hear the broadcast.
Our departure went as planned.
The jenny was unfurled & we had a leisurely motorsail at 5.2 to 6.2K
as the wind speed fluctuated. It was
necessary to pay attention at all times for fish traps, both the old yellow
& small variety & the new larger & more apparent white round
markers. Surprisingly we saw no marine
life. We heard & made contact with
‘Plumpuppet’ & ‘Gemini’, bound for Royal Island from Ships Channel via the
Fleming Channel & Abacos via NE Providence Channel in the am. We were also able to hear the US Coast
Guard. We passed Alabaster Bay, Hackett
Bay, Gregorytown & finally to Twin Sisters Beach just south of the Glass
Window Bridge. We anchored with 100 ft.
chain in 10 ft. water, although we could have anchored closer to the shore for better
protection & less rolly boat motion.
Mid afternoon we dinghied ashore & explored both sides of Queens
Highway for 2 hrs.— the crashing indigo blue Atlantic vs the calm
aqua/turquoise Exuma Sound. ‘Second Option’ invited us over for grilled lobster
on the BBQ with rice & beans—yummy, yummy!
A clouded sunset & partial cloud & partial clear night sky with
a bright ¾ moon & stars.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMzKe-22svoB8GbzU7GM0i7lRin23ESS_kHoWnNxEkUOEv3m2g8c0jjxM7LWo10TyqrJvEqSKAxcvFMJlb4_KakVosMJPCvMqvOb-ntWCXgrWVPkpEo-Hc16EDZUOopoWJK790k_0u7zT1/s1600/Eleuthera+080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMzKe-22svoB8GbzU7GM0i7lRin23ESS_kHoWnNxEkUOEv3m2g8c0jjxM7LWo10TyqrJvEqSKAxcvFMJlb4_KakVosMJPCvMqvOb-ntWCXgrWVPkpEo-Hc16EDZUOopoWJK790k_0u7zT1/s320/Eleuthera+080.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Twin Sisters Beach, Glass Window</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Feb. 22, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
143:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Twins Sisters Beach to Spanish Wells, St.
George Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0755 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1200 <i>Distance:</i> 19.09 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 13-19K, gusting late pm to 20-22K <i> Seas:</i> 1 ft. waves + 2-4 ft. rollers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy, then quite sunny before the clouds
returned mid pm & sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaCTth22LHmcfaPSR50QrNdY4ZRivlVfYq-zPXg-DyZTwTymWsKCmhYgIqC11XdH2L55igYHDWmDOjkargeslEkNzoyDwB6AbHLHB6CDWcGhatfYtEN0h1h5j-vVKJYSKX1CCToDRRYejB/s1600/Eleuthera+092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaCTth22LHmcfaPSR50QrNdY4ZRivlVfYq-zPXg-DyZTwTymWsKCmhYgIqC11XdH2L55igYHDWmDOjkargeslEkNzoyDwB6AbHLHB6CDWcGhatfYtEN0h1h5j-vVKJYSKX1CCToDRRYejB/s320/Eleuthera+092.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">A great sailing day!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A little rolly last night
& again this am, but it didn’t seem to interrupt our sleep. After weather from SSB we lifted the dinghy
engine & dinghy. It also was a rolly
ride out in Exuma Sound to Current Cut, with an east wind on our stern, to the
point that I dare not read for fear of becoming seasick. We had the jenny only rolled partly out &
still cruising at 5.7K. The clouds
dissipated to a mostly sunny morning. As
planned, at 0950 hrs. we were travelling through Current Cut on a rising tide,
therefore a 5K current was at our transom pushing us through the deep 35 ft.
cut between Eleuthera Island & Current Island at a speed of 10.1K! In no time we were out into the calmer,
sheltered, crystal clear aqua & turquoise water on the other side . We
reset the jenny & had a great beam reach sail at 6.0K. Terri & Bill without question were going
to a marina; Graeme decided we would splurge & do so as well—it had been 56
straight days at anchor. Thus
reservations were made at Spanish Wells Yacht Haven ($1.50/ ft. + $0.65/kwh for
electricity + $0.20/ gal. for water). On
a falling tide approaching max. low tide, we made our way through the channel
that sports a new white mooring ball to starboard, then port to the
marina. Both guys did super landings into
fixed, long finger slips. Once the lines
were set & after lunch, we registered, then laundry—2 loads (2 wash + 2
dry) X $3.00= $12.00 (only 1 washer & 1 dryer in marina) & internet
while waiting (password= spanish1).
Graeme filled our boat tanks with 3 water jerry cans & hunted for a
M19 fan belt, but no success. Terri
& Bill were over after their laundry, showers & defrosting their
freezer for a late day drink. A late
supper for all of us. I then had my
wonderful, running hot water shower! A
cloudy sunset with few hints of pink sky.
A light cloud cover & clear sky of stars & bright ¾ moon.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Feb. 23, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 144:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Spanish Wells<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 15K in am
to S 10-20K in afternoon & SE <10K at night<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny with threatening rain clouds around now
& again in am, but sun +++ in pm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgingqKIUkW9lrMwS_5rhLfS4ZX6e6cfizjuZJAuHJR787fmgjSA6Ol5TSEwK3DY9yq9FWYdw1DrUgVEbRXTgodptJtVgDCCeZCXGxWA2LHXPuMQaQD7rOnINXndczwFyc2UjrjTPU2WlWL/s1600/Eleuthera+097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgingqKIUkW9lrMwS_5rhLfS4ZX6e6cfizjuZJAuHJR787fmgjSA6Ol5TSEwK3DY9yq9FWYdw1DrUgVEbRXTgodptJtVgDCCeZCXGxWA2LHXPuMQaQD7rOnINXndczwFyc2UjrjTPU2WlWL/s320/Eleuthera+097.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Too long together?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Damn, it was most
difficult to hear Chris this am; too much interference being in a marina. It looks like the weather has changed
according to him, not in our favour of course with stronger winds &
constant reinforcing cold fronts <u>each </u>day for an extended period of time
mid next week. We rented a golf cart for
a day with Terri & Bill ($50.00/ day or $15.00 per hour). The 1<sup>st</sup> order of business was
filling the diesel jerry cans with diesel ($5.72/ gal). Then we toured around the island from one end
to the other, including Russell Island, stopping frequently to explore shops
& enjoying the cleanliness of the island, the well manicured yards &
the colourful painted homes; there were many homes for sale this year unlike
past years. A few groceries were
purchased at Food Fair + 1 loaf of bread ($5.50) from Kathy’s Bakery (open M-
Sat. at 0900 hrs.) & returned our purchases to the boat. Our lunch stop was at ‘The Gap’, cracked conch
for me, & no booze if you can imagine for anyone as this is a dry
island. Then we walked part of gorgeous
long the beach at low tide; soft, powdery white sand & small shells &
breaktaking colour of the water. We
finished our touring at 1615 hrs. Still
stuffed from lunch, we just drank margaritas till dark, compliments of Terri
& Bill. No visible sunset, some pink
sky before darkness set in. A mostly clear
night sky with stars & bright near full moon with a few clouds. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjprvWHFtunX9mX05A76mxezn3Uvp1VbS7gsw33oClEpz94KgQSAZ7665h9pKmH0ozCESwgUXcaIDYzcR-xYVJSB6bhgPYuav3lV8UeFlzD9RtKlO7V9CHtxvuFqc69_2vZbLsYkwVGure-/s1600/Eleuthera+103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjprvWHFtunX9mX05A76mxezn3Uvp1VbS7gsw33oClEpz94KgQSAZ7665h9pKmH0ozCESwgUXcaIDYzcR-xYVJSB6bhgPYuav3lV8UeFlzD9RtKlO7V9CHtxvuFqc69_2vZbLsYkwVGure-/s320/Eleuthera+103.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Margaritas till dark</span><br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Sun. Feb. 24,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 145:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Spanish Wells Yacht Haven to Royal Island</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Departure:</i> 1020 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1140 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 5.39 NM</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> SW
10-12K, decreasing later afternoon & evening to 5K & less <i> Seas: </i> 1 ft. chop</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> warm, humid, sunny & blue sky</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Happy 65<sup>th</sup> Birthday Larry!!!</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A warm humid night; the sheets felt more wet than damp,
but nevertheless I slept. Early morning real
warm showers again for both of us before breakfast. Graeme filled the boat’s water tanks &
quickly washed the deck, outsides of the hatches & windows & a
half-assed wash down of the cockpit.
Shortly after 0900 hrs. we made a birthday phone call to Larry as this
was his 65<sup>th</sup>; everyone talked to him. Quickly we decided to leave now, 2 hrs. before
max. low tide rather than wait till 1400 hrs., 2 hrs. into a rising tide; we
believe there might be a lot of boats in the Royal Island anchorage as we stage
for departures tomorrow. An uneventful
departure from the slip & marina. It
was a motor ride to Royal Island as the wind was on the nose. We were the 8<sup>th</sup> & 9<sup>th</sup>
boats in, for a total for the night of 13.
Then it was an afternoon of polishing off another novel & doing
suduko, lying in the sun on the deck on such a most beautiful warm day, while
Graeme finished the novel I later started.
I saw a ray leap out of the water twice.
Late afternoon ‘Eleohn’ surprised us with their arrival; they had left
Allans Cay this morning parting ways with ‘Southern Bound’ as they headed to
Nassau—they may leave their boat there till next season. ‘Eleohn’ planned to wait out the upcoming
cold front in Spanish Wells, then head to the Florida Keys & up the west
coast home to the Panhandle. ‘Truansea’
was still in Georgetown & about 2-3 weeks behind. The winds steadily decreased; some heavy
cloud to the SW but pink sky to the west.
A bright & clear night because of the full moon & stars. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Mon. Feb. 25,
23013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 146:</span><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Royal Island, Eleuthera to Lynyard Cay,
Abacos</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Departure:</i> 0630 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1545 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 56 NM</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Winds:</i> SE 14K to SSE-S 8-13K & calm after
sunset <i>Seas:</i> 1 ft. waves, 2-4 ft. swell</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> hot & sunny, increased cloud closer to
the Abacos </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyNcdCOMScfZ8Enzbavbc6kx2nTr_Nuv8kc5cDNCq4D18QRuWipLQwi6L2hPKfJ3N9p06kpZUj9t8LmiQOeb-t6OgC7Mb57YndfAoFzPawUt0RWUZ7aMjZPr0wjPJ0NX6ze-n6SG8kpNX/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyNcdCOMScfZ8Enzbavbc6kx2nTr_Nuv8kc5cDNCq4D18QRuWipLQwi6L2hPKfJ3N9p06kpZUj9t8LmiQOeb-t6OgC7Mb57YndfAoFzPawUt0RWUZ7aMjZPr0wjPJ0NX6ze-n6SG8kpNX/s320/001.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Another warm & humid night, & lots of moisture on
the exterior. It was necessary for
Graeme to wipe the enclosure & dodger windows. The clouds at dawn dissipated as we, the 1<sup>st</sup>
boats to leave, exited the anchorage at high tide. The jenny was rolled partially out with a 14K
SE wind; boat speed= 6.5K as we proceeded south of Little Egg Island & the
unmarked airplane wreck, giving it a wide berth. We jibbed onto a port tack & rolled the
rest of the jenny out on a broad reach with seas so far about 1 ft. & no
swell, until we were well in the NE New Providence Channel. Here the swells increased & the winds
shifted to a more southerly direction, producing a sideways rockin ‘n rollin
action which subsequently knocked the wind out of the sail. We spent a couple of hours jibbing downwind
doing more distance than gaining any speed or benefit, resulting in the boats
behind us passed us. Finally at 1430
hrs. we rolled the jenny in; perhaps it would have been more beneficial to use
the DRS. Terri & Bill had caught a
3-4 ft. mahi mahi, gaffed it to the
transom but then it slipped away. The
passage through the cut at high tide & with the calm sea conditions was a
non issue. We took a new route to starboard
towards then along the Lynyard Cay shoreline, anchoring in 15 ft. ? grass &
120 ft. chain, whereas Terri & Bill
took 4-5 attempts to get their Fortress anchor to hold; we were just lucky. Also they had torn the loop in the tack of
the main, so took it down, repaired it on their Sail Rite sewing machine, then
rehoisted the sail. I phoned Mom to
announce our arrival in the Abacos. Wide
bands of red sky after the sun had set behind Great Abaco Island. A very bright full moon (official day) in a
clear night sky of stars. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Tues. Feb. 26,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 147:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Destination:</i> Lynyard Cay to Marsh Harbour</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Departure:</i> 0800 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1135 hrs. <i> Distance: </i> 19.5 NM</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Winds: S 13-20K</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Weather:</i> partially sunny & cloudy</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoY2_Ood5bubkyPLG0-YqRAxXq9eJb8qqBthitsUDxzqkWM9oM18K9RqWgwI9lXRxz6pB4Hj_RhH3s-sHWP-JXuViRXLDrqoMgVMTB53Iwe1zZLcFFkMrtawZmSVH5Qn8YEisiFC8-uFu/s1600/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoY2_Ood5bubkyPLG0-YqRAxXq9eJb8qqBthitsUDxzqkWM9oM18K9RqWgwI9lXRxz6pB4Hj_RhH3s-sHWP-JXuViRXLDrqoMgVMTB53Iwe1zZLcFFkMrtawZmSVH5Qn8YEisiFC8-uFu/s320/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EB7NTl5tWRX5j09VOklKz_F1zVUYVvCjkC_A5nRU84dNZF5cWmHk7brPl-wdrUzUKIaDD2hz70p5nWrKwbgQsDADo0ERBvqNGy1Dw0_M49CVhtROMs-_-jR_7Vd3ByEFl4tL_sBmKjlO/s1600/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EB7NTl5tWRX5j09VOklKz_F1zVUYVvCjkC_A5nRU84dNZF5cWmHk7brPl-wdrUzUKIaDD2hz70p5nWrKwbgQsDADo0ERBvqNGy1Dw0_M49CVhtROMs-_-jR_7Vd3ByEFl4tL_sBmKjlO/s320/Marsh+Harbour,+Abacos+007.JPG" width="320" /></a>After a quiet night, the south wind increased at
dawn. Chris confirmed unfortunately the
arrival of yet another cold front, increased winds from a northerly &
westerly direction X 10 days, not ideal direction for Marsh Harbour, so we may
need to change location as required. The
waves were crashing through Bar Channel & it was a little rolly going
passed but really not bad. We continued
short distances from waypoint to waypoint using a partial jenny & jibbing
as required. We were hailed by a number
of friends, both old & new as we made our passage. And as expected Marsh Harbour was
crowded. Barb & Ken (Plumpuppet—met
in 2009) dinghied over on their way to dominoes & swimming
respectively. Louiselle & Ken (Fair
Winds) at individual times came over to say hello & told us of their
adventures. When a boat closeby up
anchored, we too relocated in the vacated area.
Arrangements were made for happy hour then dinner with many friends at
Snappas—Barb & Ken (Plumpuppet), Terri & Bill (Second Option), Irene
& Phil (Plan B) & Jody (just flew in this am) & Joe (Gemini). Home soon after 2000 hrs. Sorry, I did not pay attention to the
sunset. Partial cloud with the full moon
obscured & partial clear sky of stars, but an amazing number of anchor
lights that shone in the night sky—not so dark. </div>
</div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-43616558453706564672013-02-14T11:53:00.000-08:002013-02-23T19:39:56.438-08:00Week 20: Feb. 13-19, 2013 (Day 134-140)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 20:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Feb. 13, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
134:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rock Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S 5K</span>--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">15-20K
by mid am to S-SSW 5-8K at sunset
<i>Seas:</i> calm</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> gentle waves--></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 1 ft. white crested rollers mid am till mid pm--></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> gentle waves at sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny, cool breeze<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDeP2dJwHzLM46MrHxSq_jLg4J_B4K30owDfYRP5QqnxmHvyqGWO7OTMaltnpUzZrY7pu1KQ3sTlFyVQ6GmSYYpoYb0BNY4O2pxMivaKcJKmMPwAemqQJhBLxp20zst5veA3sI_qJ7H-DV/s1600/Georgetown%252C+Long+Island%252C+Cat+Island%252C+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDeP2dJwHzLM46MrHxSq_jLg4J_B4K30owDfYRP5QqnxmHvyqGWO7OTMaltnpUzZrY7pu1KQ3sTlFyVQ6GmSYYpoYb0BNY4O2pxMivaKcJKmMPwAemqQJhBLxp20zst5veA3sI_qJ7H-DV/s320/Georgetown%252C+Long+Island%252C+Cat+Island%252C+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+172.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">An early start of the day
for everyone—Pam & Greg’s departure day.
We made 2 dinghy rides to shore:
#1) Greg & Graeme with the luggage, & #2) Pam, Graeme &
myself. Sure enough Tina & the taxi
were waiting. We said our sad
goodbyes. After breakfast I cleaned the
head, cleaned the aft cabin & stripped it of it’s linen & defrosted the
freezer all by 1100 hrs. By now the
south winds increased significantly & the boat bounced around repeatedly
fore & aft then sideways. I
activated my purchased WiFi & Graeme & both worked at our respective
emails. Terri & Bill lugged 75 gals
of water by jerry cans from the source by the blue building on the beach, then
reanchored closer to us off of Pascals.
Apparently there is an official R/O water depot a couple of blocks east
of Dingles. We met at Pascals for a late
lunch, recharged my computer & checked weather, emails & posted more
days of my blog without pics. The wind
& sea conditions decreased to calm once again as we returned to the boat at
sunset. More than likely a green flash
occurred tonight because the sky was so clear.
The red sky was intense & amazingly stunning with a bright ¼ moon,
then a clear star filled night.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Feb. 14, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
135: </span></span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rock Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S calm</span> to<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">10-15K </span>to <span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><10K <i>Seas:</i>
calm</span> to<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 1 ft. white capped rollers</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">calm <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny & blue skies, H= 80F & L= 69F<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy Valentine’s Day!<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSVJjcjCY4NSbdlqvrAJq1wJVKc0hgzypw_7zE0DWMzKO8C7CnDRWyKyQrhwrNCCi7adRRaXbWbp6n9kRG5BClMDxmBh_msXFNFCJEvgl3tb1oYSNFtYJXRgN61teXb1E3xcI8KEaPAey9/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSVJjcjCY4NSbdlqvrAJq1wJVKc0hgzypw_7zE0DWMzKO8C7CnDRWyKyQrhwrNCCi7adRRaXbWbp6n9kRG5BClMDxmBh_msXFNFCJEvgl3tb1oYSNFtYJXRgN61teXb1E3xcI8KEaPAey9/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+165.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A very typical morning
starting with listening to weather. A
few departing boats, a few new arrivals at the end of the day. Laundry was gathered & sorted &
loaded into the dinghy along with garbage, 1 water jerry can, 1 gas jerry can &
computer backpack; we were slightly splashed going to shore. We met Terri & Bill at Pascals then
proceeded to Dingles to drop off my laundry & inquire re failed WiFi since
last evening. While others did their
thing, I did a long walk along the one & only road that transects the
island at Rock Sound to the Atlantic (1-1/2 mi. each direction); I walked the
sandy beach of only sea grass; no sea glass, no sea beans, few very small
shells. We all met up at Pascals where a
cruising tour had arrived for a buffet lunch & a sample of junkanoo. We met a couple we had seen in Georgetown,
Dixie & Rex (Wonderland—Dolphin 460 catamaran). I worked away on the internet but especially
posted pics to my blog for weeks 20 & 19.
Amazing, a dry trip dinghy ride home.
I had a sea bath then rinsed off with fresh water which felt so
good. An awesome sunset again; a few
conch blowers were heard the last few nights.
A star filled dark night exhibited a ¼ moon tonight which shed only a
minute fracture of light.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Feb. 15, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 136</span></span></b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 12.0pt;">:</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rock Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SW 15K to S <10K <i>Seas:</i> white capped 1 ft.
rolling waves<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny, few clouds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-FtP51_wYHIkBkSMPF8sA9Zali-qL3ZhQihEII6VxrzFbOuPZ84z9qciwTFkGmsWnlOgpZg2xUjn5kXn7Dqfk1eYzxs1U-3_WGiew3pCkwLRynJP0IkujKcu-K34_fYjqjNphT9jsnP7/s1600/Eleuthera+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-FtP51_wYHIkBkSMPF8sA9Zali-qL3ZhQihEII6VxrzFbOuPZ84z9qciwTFkGmsWnlOgpZg2xUjn5kXn7Dqfk1eYzxs1U-3_WGiew3pCkwLRynJP0IkujKcu-K34_fYjqjNphT9jsnP7/s320/Eleuthera+022.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">After a calm night, the
winds not only increased at about 0830 hrs. but started shifting more
westward. South & west are not great
directions for this anchorage with strong winds. Predictions said the SW winds would decrease
in strength this aft & night, then increase again tomorrow & clock to
the W then NW at 30K Sat. evening through Sun. pm. Most, all but 4 of us, moved location to the
west shore of Rock Sound. I attacked the
cockpit, cleaning the cushions & the surrounding space & only spot
cleaned the floor. Despite the sea
conditions we dinghied to shore, walking the Ellis’ to Dingles to drop their
laundry off & to pick up my clean laundry ($20.00) + purchased 2 more days
to my WiFi account ($14.00). We were
told that the Supermarket had been restocked with supplies trucked down from
the Mailboat which arrived in a settlement further north; also, I learnt that
one is able to obtain cuts of meat ie ground beef from the butcher at the rear
of the store, by the frozen food section by ringing the bell. Another surprise was, Tina gave me a package
of fresh dinner rolls, still slightly warm from the baker that did not deliver
my order on Tues. He was also at the
Supermarket near noon & also makes a stop at the Laundry Mat. We returned the clean laundry & few
groceries to the boat, putting things all away & had a quick lunch; the
dinner rolls were scrumptious. Back to
Pascals to do more internet & posting pics to the blog while my computer
was recharging. The SW winds were
decreasing now. A happy hour was done on
‘Second Option’ where we observed the line of the front to the west. It was a clouded sky at sunset but a bright
1/3 moon stars+++ in the clear night sky. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Feb. 16, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
137:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rock Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> shifting anywhere from S through to WNW from
calm in am, 10K early pm to 20-30K as squalls & rainstorm systems came
through about 1600 hrs. onwards<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Seas:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> calm to 2-3 ft. rollers in accordance to the
wind & weather <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> war, humid & sunny in the am, partially
cloudy early pm, then squalls & lines of rainstorms from about 1600 hrs.
onwards <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd9Wt63QoJtS9x1mWszuZ0ioLysNjgo8YamhwQ9HyFzaX0luh9GU8bXL0jc3G8eJyhDIL2xA_pFosY4Ed1bhfT3tOZUt1o_iI4aJvCx9ln3_UpRq_YrQ2VovbO9Q9u9m_XprXDjtqkwPaM/s1600/Eleuthera+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd9Wt63QoJtS9x1mWszuZ0ioLysNjgo8YamhwQ9HyFzaX0luh9GU8bXL0jc3G8eJyhDIL2xA_pFosY4Ed1bhfT3tOZUt1o_iI4aJvCx9ln3_UpRq_YrQ2VovbO9Q9u9m_XprXDjtqkwPaM/s320/Eleuthera+021.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather is always on the
minds of everyone that is cruising as it is the driving force as to one’s
plans. But this was particularly true of
today. We had been warned of the onslaught
of westerly winds & squally weather for a few days now & have had time to
prepare. As mentioned in yesterday’s
entry several boats relocated to the west side of Rock Sound anchorage. We woke to calmness & no wind this
morning; the same conditions persisted all night. We decided to head to shore early while it
was still calm along with Terri & Bill as they could/should pick up their
clean laundry today. We did so & had
a nice chat with Chris at Dingles. Then
we walked to the Ocean Hole & could only watch the fish as I forgot to
bring some food to feed the fish. Off a
little further east to the baseball diamond that the locals had been preparing
this week as hosts of a tournament. The
1<sup>st</sup> game started at 1100 hrs.; we watched the 1<sup>st</sup> ining
where Spanish Wells were already beating Rock Sound 2:0. We discovered another grocery store + clothes
store + drug store + notions. Best get
back to the boat as the SW winds were slowing increasing & the clouds were
moving in. Terri & Bill came over
for a short but very early happy hour/lunch.
We lifted the dinghy onto the davits.
The clouds & skies were becoming darker & ominous & around
1600 hrs. the 1<sup>st</sup> wave of heavy rains & strong SW winds arrived;
winds so strong, the boat heeled & the force of the waves on the rudder
snapped the bungy cord on the steering wheel.
‘Airborne’ kept all us boaters informed of approaching lines of storms
from the west & south as he saw them on radar; & several there
were. No visible sunset, no stars, no
moon tonight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Feb. 17, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
138:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rock Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> WNW to N 18-25K in am & N 12-15K by
evening
<i>Seas:</i> white capped 1-2 ft. rollers in am &
gentle chop by evening <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny & some cloudy periods, cool only H=
68F<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc3fsxqEJo-024MyRmRi7zXcO8tvYhqq481_GGqrNWkQo322IimFZ00mh16LV8rBLmhVkM_GM644MuS9FJeg1SnqjXFWdcDw1O8gzwD2hQjTPfT2QRdY6383h-XyAeN9jG073JMqk29c9P/s1600/Eleuthera+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc3fsxqEJo-024MyRmRi7zXcO8tvYhqq481_GGqrNWkQo322IimFZ00mh16LV8rBLmhVkM_GM644MuS9FJeg1SnqjXFWdcDw1O8gzwD2hQjTPfT2QRdY6383h-XyAeN9jG073JMqk29c9P/s320/Eleuthera+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">An ugly night! No more rain squalls, but the night was black
& strong SW-W-WNW winds sustained a howling strength of 25-36K; the boat
rocked fore & aft repeatedly with brief periods of calm in between. I slept till 0330 hrs., waking & opening
my eyes to see stars through the hatch directly above & sleeping about an
hour at a time, trying not to think of the howling winds. When the sun rose I just laid in bed longer
than usual; I knew with the current sea state I would not get to Church today
(closest= St. Anne’s Catholic Church 0900 hrs.). The temperatures so cool that Graeme was in
sweat top & pants; I sat in the sun warmed enclosure in shorts. The decks were less salty under foot as were
the enclosure windows. It was a lazy day
of some internet, but mostly reading an excellent novel I started yesterday
called “The Kitchen House” & in fact I finished it; it was a sad novel that
had me in tears several times, which probably added to my already melancholy
mood. Many boats (5/11) that had
reanchored on the west shore returned this afternoon to the east shore as the
winds subsided to 15K or less. Although
it was sunny most of the day, there was increasing cloud late in the afternoon
& sunset was behind a wall of clouds.
A mix of clear sky & stars & clouds tonight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><u><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Note to myself:</span></u></i><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">(1)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal;"> </span></span></i><!--[endif]--><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about how to
shorten, edit & re-organize my blog.
So far I think the best solution is to get away from the day to day
diary format & instead use destinations/locations as my blog title &
new post subject. One problem I foresee
is I would be posting less pictures unless I use another blog site such as an
annual fee version of sailblogs where one can have a photo gallery within their
blog. Certainly less time would be
involved in blogging with this format.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">(2)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal;"> </span></span></i><!--[endif]--><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">I am tired of
this lazy life. It has been 4-1/2 months
that we have been travelling. And on this trip we have had 3 long stays in
places so far because of weather issues.
Last trip in comparison we had 1.
Maybe this is all adding to my restlessness. I love the people aspect of cruising.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Feb. 18,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 139:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rock Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E calm about 8-10K, increased to 10-15K then
15-20K after sunset <i>Seas:</i> minimal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cool, mix of sun & clouds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">What a difference a day
makes! A cool but calm, quiet
night! Looks like the seas may settle
down by Wed., so we plan to move north to Governors Harbour or beyond. Soon after 0900 hrs. we met Terri & Bill
on shore & walked to the Supermarket for a head of lettuce & more
ground beef ($4.68/ lb.); not as lean
looking as packages purchased a few days ago; today’s frozen. The boys each purchased another case of Kalik
($39.82). We sat at a picnic table in
the sun wearing shorts & a sweater for heaven’s sake because of the chilly
cool breeze, chatting & drinking a few beers & charging my computer at
Pascals—hosting another cruise ship tour buffet luncheon (almost every 2-3
days). Terri & Bill came over to our
boat with charts so we could show them the passage along the west shore of
Eleuthera, to Spanish Wells, Royal Island & proposed crossing passage to
Little Harbour, Abacos. A clouded
sunset, red sky followed with east winds gusting up. A partial clear sky with ½ moon & stars
& partial cloud.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ON-3ZwKYo77YtCMPI2NhK35AVOfonUjfg70RdKyKNoSVvIBuRECJ-Nwm7dImnJ07FBMxWoWT0O76Biov4a6CtaPRErMS39wrPNxneNrs88EhSgJqioPhHDaS0-ucH_ahvKDfA6e11kbY/s1600/Eleuthera+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ON-3ZwKYo77YtCMPI2NhK35AVOfonUjfg70RdKyKNoSVvIBuRECJ-Nwm7dImnJ07FBMxWoWT0O76Biov4a6CtaPRErMS39wrPNxneNrs88EhSgJqioPhHDaS0-ucH_ahvKDfA6e11kbY/s320/Eleuthera+024.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Feb. 19, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
140:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rock Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E to ESE 10-15K <i>Seas:</i>
minimal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly sunny <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj-yCVPFOuHmbZZ6RlkHofutimbgTsbQcSQT1DAA4BhjOd4ObpM1ltOx3O5Y_5xIhZ5CnjHN4Fdl2XVGc6OcetQ4qimKTSnb9ym8qNhg83u_kaU5y6p9l6ntwmLlZuZMTlcEX-2UMQQ2e6/s1600/Eleuthera+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj-yCVPFOuHmbZZ6RlkHofutimbgTsbQcSQT1DAA4BhjOd4ObpM1ltOx3O5Y_5xIhZ5CnjHN4Fdl2XVGc6OcetQ4qimKTSnb9ym8qNhg83u_kaU5y6p9l6ntwmLlZuZMTlcEX-2UMQQ2e6/s320/Eleuthera+035.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPvdFHnHjq9gWBScHLCoWd4mjj0cEc-Yz3MUntvX7M3hY5UBPstTU4TlD5GBAMDxKEqzm0Fzw0D9WKBAPRb5RSW-4uCZiHHkACx1RxlJRzek-kYDqOEgZ9BOwa2F6m2YCNgcJd_yVIs-8/s1600/Eleuthera+041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPvdFHnHjq9gWBScHLCoWd4mjj0cEc-Yz3MUntvX7M3hY5UBPstTU4TlD5GBAMDxKEqzm0Fzw0D9WKBAPRb5RSW-4uCZiHHkACx1RxlJRzek-kYDqOEgZ9BOwa2F6m2YCNgcJd_yVIs-8/s320/Eleuthera+041.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Where we were anchored we
were protected by the easterly winds & so the winds actually were higher
late last evening & overnight than what we felt; in fact at times the wind
was howling. The same situation existed
this morning. It generally felt warmer
today although the breeze was cool.
Chris was a little dubious about tomorrow’s weather; winds are to still
be in the 15-20K range with some moderation on Thurs. Graeme adjusted the water pump fan belt after
breakfast & reading. Finally near
1000 hrs. we got to shore only to discover Pascals was closed for all of the
today, some catering project & that my internet was still working; no
complaints from me. Terri & Bill
were finally successful in sending documents off to the USA. Then we walked south along the beach road,
stopping at a couple of shops closed when last passed, up a couple of hills to
a set of stone steps across from a Church that led to an ocean hole & a
path around to caves; a secure ladder led the way down into the caves allowing
us to explore. The very high ceilings of
the caves had openings to the sky, trees from above whose roots extending down to the floor of the
caves, bat webs against the stone walls & a large number of bats; our
presence disturbed their sleep high in the ceilings of the caves. Graeme & Terri did not want to come down
& explore, & Graeme complained the most that it was beer time. On our way back we did purchase 4 cold ones;
the proprietor opened them for us & placed them in small paper bags for our
immediate consumption outdoors. Nowhere
else but in the Bahamas! We had quite a
late lunch at Sammy’s Restaurant</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12pt;">à</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
burgers; I thought they would have more Bahamian food. We said our goodbyes to Tesha, Pascal &
their daughter & 3 sons. Terri &
Bill reanchored close to the water tap source at the blue shack on the beach
& schlepped near 75 gals of water.
We met an NSC member who owns ‘Winter Sun’ who had just arrived about 2
hrs. ago on his cruising boat ‘Opportunity’, a Saga 40. The dinghy engine & dinghy were lifted in
prep for our departure in the am. Clouds
increased in the east & south & obscured a sunset again tonight,
although there was some red sky afterwards.
A mostly cloudy night, ½ moon & few stars visible.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-68486882718050813492013-02-13T13:22:00.003-08:002013-02-15T12:32:57.732-08:00Week 19: Feb. 6-12, 2013 (Day 127-133)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 19:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Feb. 6, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 127: </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Thompson Bay, Long Island<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">NE & calm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> warm, sunny periods with heavy dark clouds in
the southern part of the island with rains, followed by sunny skies<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR9FPva3VXCOvTAsM_yv-aHb3Qpq2z6xFzL4uK0g-uednoP2zihPAYoT5nqSpmNwiTu_j3SoLF2EMte0HRI7fK9grYNSWiZMs5wNX__t5LtwoNNL7xx7R2D-6_jAXHFb5aReopuEVurXKH/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR9FPva3VXCOvTAsM_yv-aHb3Qpq2z6xFzL4uK0g-uednoP2zihPAYoT5nqSpmNwiTu_j3SoLF2EMte0HRI7fK9grYNSWiZMs5wNX__t5LtwoNNL7xx7R2D-6_jAXHFb5aReopuEVurXKH/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+072.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvPsKTyZAUip8zU5jtgFGJRxGC1xgzma_cmNG-ii2p4Yw7jVVMkU1ka3kQQlE3LHHL9PPc7XzuUHi9wuoj2KMtU4HyjxpFXdyd6dI2uIhARtswbaqJqxB2FoTnZMWlyH7HszH0L6kHKm0S/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvPsKTyZAUip8zU5jtgFGJRxGC1xgzma_cmNG-ii2p4Yw7jVVMkU1ka3kQQlE3LHHL9PPc7XzuUHi9wuoj2KMtU4HyjxpFXdyd6dI2uIhARtswbaqJqxB2FoTnZMWlyH7HszH0L6kHKm0S/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+079.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">See, I told you it was pouring rain at the Blue Hole! </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It was so calm a night I
can’t believe we slept so well. We were
up in time for 0630 hrs. SSB; a few days of light easterly winds. A hefty breakfast then some housekeeping chores. Graeme was feeling a bit queasy in the
stomach today. Mid morning I drove the
dinghy with Pam & Greg to the Long Island Breeze dinghy dock, depositing
our garbage & filling 1 jerry can of water.
We visited the Tourist Department Office getting an island map, asking transportation
questions & inquiring about half day car rentals. We were put onto to Jackie at Long Island
Breeze; yes, the car was available for $30.00 + a $50.00 refundable deposit
once the car was returned; I registered as the designated driver. Greg dinghied for Graeme, Pam picked up some
groceries at Harding & both of us did emails till the car was available
& the boys returned. The Mailboat
(every Wed.) was due to arrive at 1100 hrs.
So our 1<sup>st</sup> stop with the car was Hillside Grocery, just north
of Salt Pond (fresh fruits & veggies) then south to Clarence Town, where we
had a delicious lunch at ‘Flying Fish Marina’ (undergoing new construction by
new owners), then drove to Father Jerome’s distinct Saints Peter & Paul
Catholic Church (locked) & St. Paul’s Anglican Church (under
renovations). The sky was blackening
from the north bringing heavy rains while we drove to Deans & the Blue Hole
at Turtle Cove (rough road). This blue
hole & beaches are totally unspoiled & one of the most superb natural
sites in the Bahamas. Unfortunately it
was still pouring rain when we arrived & when trying to photograph the blue
hole. Three divers were just leaving as
well. We drove north through Scrub Hill,
Hamilton, Pettys, Mangrove Bush, Deadman Cay, Grays to Salt Pond, topping up
the car’s fuel tank + gas for the dinghy engine & returned to Long Island
Breeze by 1700 hrs. I found driving on
the left quite easy. A fabulous sunset
with no land obscuring the visibility of the setting sun. And best of all, there was a green
flash! Pam’s first! A gorgeous red sky afterwards. And a great supper. Flat calm water as we dinghied home in the
dark under partially clear skies with stars.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Feb. 7, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
128:</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Long Island to McQueens, Cat Island<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0800 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1815 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 68.81NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">SSE to ESE 13-18K <i>Seas:</i>
1-2 ft. waves with 4-5 ft. swells from SE to NW<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly sunny<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A calm night with a
pleasant light night breeze. The guys
hoisted the dinghy engine last night which just left the dinghy to hoist to the
davits & secured down well. After
listening to 0630 hrs. SSB, breakfast completed & “all” stowed away, we
were under way, west past Indian Hole Point, along Whale head, Bains Bluff,
Simms, Dove Cay, Glenton Sound & Joes Sound towards Cape Santa Maria (good
4 hrs. distance), motorsailing under full jenny on a broad reach at a speed of
5.7 to 6.2K & seeing depths from 10 to 18 ft. It was calm in this section that I was able
to work down below on my computer composing my blog as I was many days in
arrears. Then our route took us out into
the deep indigo blue waters of Exuma Sound & the Atlantic. We altered plans & headed north to Cat
Island instead of Conception because the wind (heavy east component) & sea
conditions (1-2 ft waves with 4-5 ft. swells from the SE to the NW) thus on the
nose & the bow pounding uncomfortably.
There was enough swell action that I did not want to spend too long a
time down below. We rounded the
southwestern tip of Cat Island at Hawks Nest Point, turned to starboard to
McQueens (24o11’N & 75o29.5’W) as the sun was setting; a bank of clouds
rested just above the horizon, so no green flash tonight. Greg & I were on the deck straining to
pick up coral heads under these poor light conditions, but we seemed to have
fared well. When we reached a depth of
12 ft. we anchored & let out 100 ft. chain.
The warming effect of the sun was long gone, the wind was cool & we
were actually chilled, if you can imagine.
Instead of a celebratory rum & coke we settled for a straight shot
of Greg’s DR rum. Pam cooked a lovely
supper that we all enjoyed with a glass of wine. It was now 2000 hrs. & we watched 2
episodes of Qi (British comedy show), fighting to keep our eyes open. No other boats around, all alone under the dark
clear starry sky.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Feb. 8, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 129</span></span></b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 12.0pt;">:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> McQueens, Cat Island to New Bight, Cat Island<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0900 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1045 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 7.69 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S 8-10K, increasing to 12-15K & clocking
westward<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> warm & sunny with clouds in periphery<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiat2BL6V2d5B8lRV6CPxTW42LqKJHJzgNscnR7PC3BzqCC14kUL-n46t52I0PpEhCAYarD_MxRLNOysUoWbigp_wzYWK-9d5OMIjDW2eMxdfcgfclb21koiyBa2f5bL-Dt8wjUy4rw6C75/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiat2BL6V2d5B8lRV6CPxTW42LqKJHJzgNscnR7PC3BzqCC14kUL-n46t52I0PpEhCAYarD_MxRLNOysUoWbigp_wzYWK-9d5OMIjDW2eMxdfcgfclb21koiyBa2f5bL-Dt8wjUy4rw6C75/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+104.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Walking the Hermitage</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg713KA74Fuz-Fvdyp-zUkllXu1_yL7m5041hr1yhBU1zNPOvzE6HUXkeXCW-3ds1I8_tIYFcMpnYQ6DsfIWFYBKd7ZafZrkSf0FzUP0VDlZFHHetL9d6ojfDyDiRSXSFw-ceWNq3AuRjWA/s1600/Georgetown%252C+Long+Island%252C+Cat+Island%252C+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg713KA74Fuz-Fvdyp-zUkllXu1_yL7m5041hr1yhBU1zNPOvzE6HUXkeXCW-3ds1I8_tIYFcMpnYQ6DsfIWFYBKd7ZafZrkSf0FzUP0VDlZFHHetL9d6ojfDyDiRSXSFw-ceWNq3AuRjWA/s320/Georgetown%252C+Long+Island%252C+Cat+Island%252C+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+106.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwYeVOm-aAkYceXhKtI7PzHrRfbpc636lkiHINzg8rPj4FS0GFU65K6Lyq1FRdZXUr0goUDVZquKTYFXSMQ1wKcuyrUssJnhyukM212Cu3GRZ01udPjh19XjhAYSy_d4o-bD5eNwEJj87/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwYeVOm-aAkYceXhKtI7PzHrRfbpc636lkiHINzg8rPj4FS0GFU65K6Lyq1FRdZXUr0goUDVZquKTYFXSMQ1wKcuyrUssJnhyukM212Cu3GRZ01udPjh19XjhAYSy_d4o-bD5eNwEJj87/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+113.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">I noticed a ticking of the
kettle on the stove (not centrally positioned on the stove) & a occasional
gentle sideward roll in the early morning hours, but just laid in bed until
dawn & time to listen to SSB. Chris
was predicting a cold front in the Northern Exumas clocking S to W to N
overnight at 10-12K, increasing during the day from NE to 20K; although the
direction of the wind should slowly clock to the E & SE, the wind speed X
2-3 days would be in the 20-30K range.
It was decision time because our guests need to be in Nassau by noon
Feb. 14<sup>th</sup>. Option #1: to stay
here in Cat Island nearly a week & fly from here. Option #2: move to Rock Sound, Eleuthera, ‘A’
on an overnight passage, or ‘B’ tomorrow during the day. As we motored from McQueens (south shore of
huge, open bay called The Bight) to New Bight (north shore), it was decided to
leave at 2200 hrs. tonight to Rock Sound.
Thus more sailing possibility & new adventure for our guests. We anchored on a falling tide in 7-1/2 ft.
water, laying 80 ft. of chain. A light
snack, then 3 of us dinghied to shore; the dinghy got swamped as the 2 ft.
waves rolled over the transom as we were landing. We walked the well paved road, then stone
steps for Mt. Alvernia, the highest hill in the Bahamas to Father Jerome’s
Hermitage (retirement home)</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12pt;">à</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
impressive! On our walk up we noted a
tomato & cabbage garden as well as areas where banana palms were growing in
a deep depression & other areas where trees had crosscuts about 4 ft. from
the ground, rocky ground patches & a faint smell of something burnt;
possibly future garden areas. On our
walk down we picked some very red & soon to be red tomatoes, as we had
noticed many had fallen & spoiled.
Graeme had stayed back to establish waypoints on the chartplotter for
our passage tonight, but joined us for lunch at the purple shack off the
beach. He stated that Terri & Bill
had called, making contact over the VHF & were heading from Georgetown for
here. We had a great fish or rib lunch,
letting Graeme eat our mac ‘n cheese while the locals played their dice game
called “backo” I think. This time we
turned dinghy bow out, rowed away from shore a bit then employed the engine, a
much dryer method. And of course the
wind died as soon as we arrived home.
Terri & Bill anchored next to us & came over for a social; they
will wait out this cold front at a couple of anchorages along the western side
of Cat Island, then head over to Rock Sound.
Hurray, we all experienced the green flash at sunset; my 3<sup>rd</sup>! Sandwiches were prepared for the night
voyage, Graeme slept before our late supper, then we all rested until 2200 hrs. Two boats arrived after dark. A dark night sky it was, stars by the
zillions, no moon, music from shore wafted through the very still calm air as
we departed.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3Vhh_nKGEVEucm4ONczErem0JBRKzUNTV0gCZIJncbujr1ODI8iQgVsrXDOUXeMU4udhjSyq6hPrgwKwKoD_dOkhoLBc_dtAxOKB_K4po0_f6dnHrU7C_F45DzJemNdVPPd-JYwAbqKX/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3Vhh_nKGEVEucm4ONczErem0JBRKzUNTV0gCZIJncbujr1ODI8iQgVsrXDOUXeMU4udhjSyq6hPrgwKwKoD_dOkhoLBc_dtAxOKB_K4po0_f6dnHrU7C_F45DzJemNdVPPd-JYwAbqKX/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+128.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">New Bight Anchorage from Hermitage</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">FYI: John Cecil
Hawes, born in England in 1876 & known
in the Bahamas as Father Jerome, was 1<sup>st</sup> an architect then an
Anglican priest. He was sent by the
Anglican Bishop to restore the damaged churches after the 1908 hurricane. He
rebuilt 7 Anglican churches on Long Island with thick hurricane-proof stonework
walls & barrel-vaulted roofs. From
Deadmans Cay he ministered the people of Long Island. He became a Catholic priest, returning to the
Bahamas to build Catholic Churches & the St. Augustine Monastery in
Nassau. He selected Comer Hill in New
Bight as his retirement home in 1937.
His genuine & humble devotion to God is apparent as one walks
through the archway at the Hermitage’s entrance at the base of the hill &
all the way up the hill through the Stations of the Cross, past the replica of
Jesus’ tomb with it’s rolled-away stone to his Spartan living quarters &
small chapel for private devotion.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SHoi0smDW_Jb3t52Qb-lYGY9Lh0qZq5zkJlumXOifuFPqOFD-vvPucMxlP1_dRDGy3q6h8ssd7B_iaOQ2BkmA0ExsbSDggJTzD3SUpBfdvVImsDA65ZW4IV6j9RI1TZKBsZoVS3vH9en/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SHoi0smDW_Jb3t52Qb-lYGY9Lh0qZq5zkJlumXOifuFPqOFD-vvPucMxlP1_dRDGy3q6h8ssd7B_iaOQ2BkmA0ExsbSDggJTzD3SUpBfdvVImsDA65ZW4IV6j9RI1TZKBsZoVS3vH9en/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+141.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Locals playing dice game</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Feb. 9, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 130:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> New Bight, Cat Island to Rock Sound,
Eleuthera<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Feb. 8 at 2200 hrs. <i>Arrival:
</i> Feb. 9 at 1115 hrs. <i>Distance: </i>88.39NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> clocking SW to W at 4-5K at departure, to N
& ENE 13-15K+/- at arrival
Seas: calm at departure &
through the night, gentle waves passing Little San Salvador & 1- 2 ft.
waves at arrival <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> dark, clear with a few dark clouds &
stars+++ at departure, a mix of sun & clouds at sunrise to mostly blue
skies & sun at arrival<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitX4peX0bSXCezky_dSXUaU4ivFp2R3HnWr8rPlF5ewXS9tu0CIiLioTwsx-4oyreIBskQHCi77KDHHqAbvtqqMqRSCg2akiZN3cG2TLaXFxtjXgS6GkN-QHtfDD1TwWevUeBlfd5oD_xz/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitX4peX0bSXCezky_dSXUaU4ivFp2R3HnWr8rPlF5ewXS9tu0CIiLioTwsx-4oyreIBskQHCi77KDHHqAbvtqqMqRSCg2akiZN3cG2TLaXFxtjXgS6GkN-QHtfDD1TwWevUeBlfd5oD_xz/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+147.JPG" width="288" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Although the skies were
clear & breathtaking & stars impressive, it was a very dark night upon
departure at 2200 hrs. The deck surfaces
were damp, the visibility was very restricted & passage from Cat Island was
greatly by GPS. Graeme took 1<sup>st</sup>
shift, I stayed up in the cockpit & soon after midnight drifted off to
sleep, while Pam & Greg slept below.
Greg relieved Graeme at 0030 hrs. & they continued to relieve each
other during the night & I slept below till dawn. So I had little details of the night to
relate, except that the seas were calm & the winds were light & on the
nose till we turned off the wind when we reached another waypoint just before
dawn. Then the NE winds increased to
10-13K & we set the jenny on port until our next waypoint when the wind was
once again on our nose. Another change
in direction off the wind & again the jenny was set on starboard but the
wind now had increased in intensity to 15K+/-, sooner than expected. We munched on our prepared sandwiches &
drank a freshly brewed pot of coffee along the way. We met Plumpuppet motorsailing in the
opposite direction heading for Highborne Cay.
Can you believe such a coincidence!!!
It took us an hour longer than expected for our passage. When the anchor was set (100 ft. chain in 9
ft. depth), we lunched & napped.
More & more boats arrived. In
fact John & Lois Wyndham (Astar) whom we met Feb. ’09 in Marsh Harbour
& Graeme again in Oct. ’12 at the Annapolis Boatshow, came over to reintroduce
themselves. A lovely sunset; Graeme said
there was a green flash, but how do you have a green flash with land between us
& the horizon? A clear sky, dark
night & stars magnifico.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Feb. 10, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
131:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rock Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E & gusty 10-20K during the day & +/-
20K evening & night<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mainly sunny & cool from the strong
breeze<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3Q3drXysskDrXGmriRjDxEbbWPFV_BltlNU4U2pKLFrUvJi5x_2AbNcO1_CZeIR2b9x4orPMfhlFWycqoCnrFPEtcvmL2yGUtJYoNE7eag3fzTaD5jWBIap28kFDHnYzdaq3_kw7O5qq/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3Q3drXysskDrXGmriRjDxEbbWPFV_BltlNU4U2pKLFrUvJi5x_2AbNcO1_CZeIR2b9x4orPMfhlFWycqoCnrFPEtcvmL2yGUtJYoNE7eag3fzTaD5jWBIap28kFDHnYzdaq3_kw7O5qq/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+150.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Ocean Hole</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Although awake at the
usual early hour there was no need to get OOB.
A leisurely ½ cup of coffee sitting in the cockpit reading as a new pot
of coffee was brewing, while the others slept.
Once everyone was up for a while, I made French Toast for breakfast. Graeme emptied 3 water jerry cans into the
boat tank, then stayed aboard to fill the boat’s diesel tank & adjust the
water pump fan belt, while the rest of us dinghied along the shore to the
wooden dock. We walked passed St. Anne’s
Catholic Church (Sunday Mass only at 0900 hrs.) to The Market Place Supermarket
& back to St. Andrew’s Anglican Church off the beach, in search of the
inland Ocean Hole. The Ocean Hole is
straight up from the wooden dock & up a few blocks; included was a small park
with picnic table & a gazebo with picnic tables, well constructed concrete steps down to the
hole with a ladder to descend into the hole; several varieties of fish
devouring bread, chicken & rice scraps thrown to them. Once back to the dinghy, we grabbed 2 jerry cans
& Greg filled them from the tap outside of Dingles (not legal but Dingles
closed as it was Sunday), then levered them down into the dinghy at Dingle’s
dock; Greg walked into the water from shore & climbed into the dinghy. A semi wet dinghy ride home. Lunch of smoked salmon, cream cheese, small
bread squares, crackers, celery, carrots & red pepper dip. L&L (lazy & leisurely) the rest of
the afternoon of napping, reading or blog writing in my case until my battery
was down to 10%. I prepared a one pot
meal for supper. Another Bahamian sunset
with decreasing easterly winds to calm & a dark, star filled sky night. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2J3G5g9VS7Nuu_2yuwVo1UpfNlyaEl9Jd5tDf5cDUhgk_eNm9PmNZDAvrg08ufSuU2mYeXgFS20ucc-pjkXmKuD0wKyb05pX2KvLTi4J6CUCqq6-9QsWKKe3tcAZV5u94Eo8fcwBHDxkJ/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2J3G5g9VS7Nuu_2yuwVo1UpfNlyaEl9Jd5tDf5cDUhgk_eNm9PmNZDAvrg08ufSuU2mYeXgFS20ucc-pjkXmKuD0wKyb05pX2KvLTi4J6CUCqq6-9QsWKKe3tcAZV5u94Eo8fcwBHDxkJ/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+160.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Feb. 11, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
132:</span> </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination: Rock Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: ESE to SE 12-17K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather: mostly sunny with a few cloudy periods &
a cool breeze<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixHXN2uINsQ2AGLTJxwiPLnPFwpbkTpE2Z1R1wvG5xnBOuUstXNHP3Au0nIMu-tDWNm6QUaMTL7hzbnwk1LzocajG7m7dpWx5SWGtdPc_4iinMcUTv7OfybVX17wYcJjmJCfXRxvHbYqg1/s1600/Georgetown%252C+Long+Island%252C+Cat+Island%252C+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixHXN2uINsQ2AGLTJxwiPLnPFwpbkTpE2Z1R1wvG5xnBOuUstXNHP3Au0nIMu-tDWNm6QUaMTL7hzbnwk1LzocajG7m7dpWx5SWGtdPc_4iinMcUTv7OfybVX17wYcJjmJCfXRxvHbYqg1/s320/Georgetown%252C+Long+Island%252C+Cat+Island%252C+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+171.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">South Eleutheran Mission</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Though I have failed to
mention this, daylight came noticeably earlier X several weeks now &
similarly sunset occurred later. The
winds were to moderate & clock over the next few days. Chris though was unsure what may happen Wed.,
Thurs. & Fri. Graeme & Greg
dinghied to shore for 3 jerry cans of diesel (expensive). Then Pam & Greg dinghied to the north
shore in the direction of the airport to arrange flights for a Wed. am
departure ($65.00 each). An early lunch,
then the 4 of us dinghied to Pascals at high tide & arranged a taxi for
0700 hrs. Wed. to the airport via Tina (bartender at Pascals) with her cousin,
then walked to The Market Place Supermarket for just a few things & to
Dingles & the South Eleutheran Mission, which housed an adult library,
childrens library & a computer lab & room of historical antique
furniture; Sam was the administrator. We
grabbed an ice cream at Dingles & I purchased a 1 day 24 hr. internet
($10.00). We returned to Pascals,
connected to WiFi (sunsethse) & electricity, & the decision was made to
have dinner here; tasty, enjoyable & scenic on a beautiful evening
overlooking the harbour; just aslightly
cool breeze. No green flash but an
orangey pink evening sky & a sliver moon visible. A clear night sky of stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></span><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Feb. 12, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
133:</span></span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rock Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S to SSW 15-20K <i>Seas:</i> white capped 1 ft.
rollers in the harbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny but breeze still coolish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-4biNxD9TIz4TN5V1jPRNrrO7reFjbKr9Kn1g_1TjXpghmTP0Qk9IXBuYEd9DV9sU633yFaOE8oH7KraXUMc9v6oiCnL5N6DvHUVVQQ1bsb0rWHLrwP-PhgY8z6LlzDV47BYX-EVlv2XA/s1600/Georgetown%252C+Long+Island%252C+Cat+Island%252C+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-4biNxD9TIz4TN5V1jPRNrrO7reFjbKr9Kn1g_1TjXpghmTP0Qk9IXBuYEd9DV9sU633yFaOE8oH7KraXUMc9v6oiCnL5N6DvHUVVQQ1bsb0rWHLrwP-PhgY8z6LlzDV47BYX-EVlv2XA/s320/Georgetown%252C+Long+Island%252C+Cat+Island%252C+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+173.JPG" width="288" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Normal routine of morning
activities. A number of boats left this
morning & new arrivals in the late afternoon hours. Greg & Graeme did the shore ride for 2
jerry cans of water, since we obtained permission yesterday. A pleasant lunch in the cockpit. We were hailed by ‘Second Option’ about 1130 hrs. as they
were nearing Chubb Point; they had left Cat Island at 0230 hrs. & set their
anchor about 1500 hrs. when we were on shore.
Mailboat scheduled arrival is every Tuesday. The 4 of us landed ashore at Pascals to
confirm the taxi for tomorrow at 0700 hrs. & to pick up bread rolls we had
ordered; no bread delivered but we were assured that the taxi would show on
time even though we had no phone number.
We walked about town, verified the Laundry Mat location (opens at 0900
hrs. & costs $3.00 per load). We
returned to the boat for some reading & packing, & Graeme dinghied down
to ‘Second Option’. The winds calmed
significantly. A lovely orangey sky
after sunset with pink & violet hue & a sliver of moon like a nail
cuticle. Lights of a vessel were seen
entering the harbour after sunset; later we discovered it delivered fuel to the
airport. Mirror like water & clear
skies filled stars above.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
</div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-61558807610245538642013-02-06T15:07:00.001-08:002013-02-23T20:11:10.899-08:00Week 18: Jan. 30- Feb. 5, 2013 (Day 120-126)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 18:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Jan. 30, 2013—Day 120:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 15-20K <i>Seas:</i>
1-2 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mix of sun, blue sky & clouds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5gTWBUHQff8kyLlgiGIaGjBLzfZNSAOVRuJWiTBPwd9_goWvGeouALkPAXcGAiqIkY1oAwujKJ5eYElB3SerZDNej_nuyn0iejrlMuelqfBqxvKdbXstGKV2_Nm0G73GMMw8jEnujt_JY/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5gTWBUHQff8kyLlgiGIaGjBLzfZNSAOVRuJWiTBPwd9_goWvGeouALkPAXcGAiqIkY1oAwujKJ5eYElB3SerZDNej_nuyn0iejrlMuelqfBqxvKdbXstGKV2_Nm0G73GMMw8jEnujt_JY/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+046.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Ladies Luncheon on Sun Cat</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This is the beginning of
our 12<sup>th </sup>day here because of
the winds, & these high winds are to continue. Chris predicted moderation this afternoon
& more so tomorrow; this moderation did not materialize today but sure hope
it does tomorrow. I am very tired, fed
up, frustrated of all the salt water showers with dinghy rides! Salt & more salt everywhere! I did some head cleaning this am,
imparticular the glass & mirrors while the Net was in progress, then
quickly passed a fresh water cloth to some areas of the cockpit later in the
afternoon. Yoga at 0900 hrs. followed by
a drenching of salt water on the ride home.
Josh & Mike McGoldrick visited just after we got home; in fact I had
quickly removed my salty shorts & rinsed them out & had to quickly pull
on my PJ bottoms as they arrived. How
cute was that! They had dinghied to see
the catamaran that had crashed on the coral reefs in the vicinity of Fowl
Cay. While they were visiting I made my
fruit salad for the Ladies Luncheon on ‘Sun Cat’ I had been invited to. Also I prepared & cooked my one pot meal
for supper tonight when Pam & Greg arrive.
Shortly after noon I received a phone call from Greg from Chicago; they
had missed their connecting flight & would be in Miami tonight & would
be flying to Georgetown tomorrow arriving at 1130 hrs. Graeme ran me down to Monument Beach to
attend the wonderful luncheon with 8 other women while he visited Joe. There was no hurry to get home now. But another moderately wet ride home. Then off to ‘Kathrian’ for more socializing
but also to say our good byes to Doug’s family as they were leaving in the am
as well as Mike. Again, a bit of a salty
shower. I missed the sunset again tonight. The night though was dark, no moon till very
late, a clear sky littered with stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Jan. 31, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
121:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">SE</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">S</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">SE
10-15 all am to flat calm after sunset
<i>Seas:</i> 1-2 ft. to flat calm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly sunny<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Hurray, the wind was less
than 10K at dawn! And more moderation
was predicted on SSB & for tomorrow am; but in pm Chris said the cold front
would hit Georgetown & blow X 2-3 days from a northerly direction. Some last minute cleaning , yoga & then the winds kicked up just in
time for the ride home; and yes, we got wet with salt water again! Once cleaned up & fully clothed in foul
weather gear we dinghied to shore & met Pam & Greg at ‘Bikini Bottoms’
soon after noon; a round of drinks. We
had lunch & internet at Eddies & did groceries at Exuma Markets. Now 1500 hrs. Greg & Graeme rode the
dinghy to the boat while Pam & I, luggage & groceries took Elvis’ Water
Taxi ($10.00 ea one way, $24.00 return). The winds now shifted
due south & decreased in intensity.
The groceries were packed all away & Pam & Greg organized
themselves in the aft cabin. Supper at
sunset & so again I missed whether a red sky followed or not. Absolute no wind, mirror like water &
stars galore with a late rising moon again tonight. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Feb. 1, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 122:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> flat
calm in am, slowly building from N to NE up to 20-25K with gusts approaching
30K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly sunny, some cloud & increasing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Mrkj45detVpHP78YHeyTcqfudnWC76RKcnUKL-zPdHNgeIoCtJgujk9L7TD9mxfViW56w4YFjIBRCRVFhFH9aEpMYRYj-f3-rSzrdOAljsrhvpTK7W0IOHM1tywx2ovMgDwiFVh1fcuF/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Mrkj45detVpHP78YHeyTcqfudnWC76RKcnUKL-zPdHNgeIoCtJgujk9L7TD9mxfViW56w4YFjIBRCRVFhFH9aEpMYRYj-f3-rSzrdOAljsrhvpTK7W0IOHM1tywx2ovMgDwiFVh1fcuF/s200/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+052.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">V-Ball Beach resident rays</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT1XeEQmiytyzjCTHbN3bibBNhKzXanZtTbhyphenhyphen9Yolr3th5nb-RgWEHfPeOZF2CwdY9EcNo7n9sB1g4oYwfVH4s4GWoZ38NjKG4A5OYWNKvMdC-pXHkDCzgA9kF7zkZD9Tdt5bteNYHRCHC/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT1XeEQmiytyzjCTHbN3bibBNhKzXanZtTbhyphenhyphen9Yolr3th5nb-RgWEHfPeOZF2CwdY9EcNo7n9sB1g4oYwfVH4s4GWoZ38NjKG4A5OYWNKvMdC-pXHkDCzgA9kF7zkZD9Tdt5bteNYHRCHC/s200/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+015.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A very warm & humid
the night & similar in the am with much moisture clung to windows, deck,
etc. We woke in time to hear Chris’
continued prediction of NNE winds in the 20-30K
range X 1-1/2 days with some improvement later Sunday & decent winds
Monday to Wednesday. After yoga the wind
started increasing. Sitting on the deck
reading we spotted a turtle that surfaced several times. Some snorkeling for Pam & Greg off the
boat, Graeme removed stain spots off the transom while I read. Early afternoon we dinghied to Volleyball
Beach & feed the rays, tried taking movies & photos of them as they
circled around our legs; so cool! We
toured the hurricane holes in & around St. Francis Resort. After Cherry & Doug had done their
business in Georgetown they reanchored close by & despite the high winds we
hosted a happy hour. Not very hungry
after devouring the late afternoon snacks, supper was simply leftovers but we
ate in the cockpit, something we have not done in a while. Then we watched a short British comedy clip
on computer. The increasing cloud at
sunset wiped out any visible sunset & red sky following. A dark, howling windy night with zillion
stars in the sky at bedtime, then the skies became a mixture of clear &
clouds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Feb. 2, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 123:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE to ENE 20K</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">10K</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">calm <i>Seas:</i> minimal secondary to
wind direction<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cool as a result of wind, light clouds that
increased to heavy <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijeyRXot0eovyOscakEscDAb0np44EcNBoZoyRRi3gAqKohWugXsfd4rZSMF0qe7_Z4ckEXL8V-WfjvZRcBqb49CnaukZuVFnN-ePGU5rNdZL1FY_Y_QcFUo6Pi06MDiZZz1cWLBU3ec0s/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijeyRXot0eovyOscakEscDAb0np44EcNBoZoyRRi3gAqKohWugXsfd4rZSMF0qe7_Z4ckEXL8V-WfjvZRcBqb49CnaukZuVFnN-ePGU5rNdZL1FY_Y_QcFUo6Pi06MDiZZz1cWLBU3ec0s/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+054.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Foul weather gear to keep dry</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fairly good protection
from the strong NNE to NE winds during the night. The message received from Chris this am was
the moderating trade winds after Monday; gosh I hope so! Herman (White Wing) was back as host of the
Net after a short vacation. Graeme put a
request out on the Net for a source for a M19 or20 fan belt (spare) &
received a positive response. Going in for yoga we sighted a pair of dolphins. Once again a little wet driving home. It was a lazy day of reading or napping
because it was not a nice day, although the winds late in the pm
decreased. I did go ashore with Cherry
& Doug & listened to the discussion re going south; this freed Graeme
to do the adjustment on the water pump to now accommodate both a M19 & 20
size belt. Thank you Greg for cooking
supper—very good. No sunset, no moon or
stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Feb. 3, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 124:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> N-NE<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny & cloudy periods<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ZimpsXz_Y1vYrCbbSGawF3U-k3-w8t_s3SB3fEpVZmluGXMNgRbhyphenhyphenbMM0rjx1WZ27J8aORs7UKH0alC8vJ5SyRxDScz2QtUAKJC2IdAnOXV3AP0vPAI_v2OgcyFxhH75FxttVTyj4MEb/s1600/Georgetown%252C+Long+Island%252C+Cat+Island%252C+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ZimpsXz_Y1vYrCbbSGawF3U-k3-w8t_s3SB3fEpVZmluGXMNgRbhyphenhyphenbMM0rjx1WZ27J8aORs7UKH0alC8vJ5SyRxDScz2QtUAKJC2IdAnOXV3AP0vPAI_v2OgcyFxhH75FxttVTyj4MEb/s320/Georgetown%252C+Long+Island%252C+Cat+Island%252C+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+062.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Super Bowl at St. Francis</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">About or soon after
midnight the winds decreased to perhaps the 10K range. The guys went across to Georgetown for 2 jugs
of water, then Pam & I were dinghied to Beach Worship for 0930 hrs.; the
message given was unusually long, too religious, heavy & too serious &
negative. Sans Graeme the 3 of us in
swimsuits & foul weather jackets jumped into the dinghy & hiked part of
Treasure Trail then to a well identified path off of Sand Dollar Beach to South
Beach. Five foot waves were pounding
& crashing as we walked the beach finding only tiny shells, no sea glass
& soft white sand. We had an early
happy hour/lunch on ‘Moma Cal’ as we were all attending the Super Bowl
Feastivities at 1600 hrs. at St. Francis & wanted a good seat. Photo shot of the coi & turtles in their
pond; dinner & drink specials. The
Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Fran 49’ers 34:29, a good 2<sup>nd</sup>
half. The party was well supported by
the cruisers. A dark dinghy ride home at
2300 hrs. despite numerous anchor lights & star studded night sky.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Feb. 4, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 125:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE 10-12K, increasing to +/- 15K by afternoon
from the E<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mainly sunny<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We had a funny incident
with a flashlight in the toilet when I took my 1<sup>st</sup> pee of the
morning—a good story. An encouraging
week of weather if the predictions hold true; we will attempt to depart
tomorrow. In light of this after yoga we
loaded 4 bodies, garbage, laundry cart & supplies & computer into the
dinghy & headed across the pond.
Georgetown Cruising Regatta regalia was on sale at Bikini Bottoms. Two loads of laundry (2 wash + 2 dry) =
$13.00; freshly clean foul weather gear for me!
Pam & I visited a few shops, then we all had lunch at Eddies as we
did internet. At 1500 hrs. the guys took
the dinghy back to the boat (very wet) & Pam & I waited till 1600 hrs.
to take the Water Taxi with clean laundry, few groceries & computer; $20.00
but a dry ride. We barely arrived back
when a big surprise occurred—Terri & Bill dinghied over, after having
anchored at Sand Dollar Beach about 1 hr. ago.
They had had a great sail from Little Farmers Cay. Lots of conversation & showing of pics of
their new granddaughter over a cold beer; they were experiencing some fridge
problems & may have to stay longer in Georgetown; when solved we hope to
meet up again. Good bye hugs to Cherry
& Doug & later over the VHF to Donna & Jack as they are leaving in
the am for Rum Cay then further on eventually to Puerto Rico. Since we were leaving also in the am we said
our good byes to ‘Sea Camp’, ‘Truansea’, ‘Southern Bound’, ‘Fire Cracker’,
& ‘Slow Flight’; unable to hail ‘ Valda IV’ or ‘Sun Cat’, ‘Cool Cat’ &
‘Two of a Kind’. We will miss you all
& hope are paths will soon cross again!!!
A nice red sky after sunset & very dark but clear night sky filled
with more & more anchor lights as several boats arrived today & of
course those spectacular stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Feb. 5, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
126:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Gerogetown to Thompson Bay, Long Island<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0855 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1600 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> approx. 30 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 10-12K, decreasing to 6-10K <i>Seas:</i> 2-4 ft. decreasing to
1-3 ft. + 2-3 ft. swells<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mainly sunny, some cloud<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvNjar0FpB-WamhS75F2vAKNQcHSwmjldWVmlUPyXQsX5cXC-2DaqROkUpTA33T8cUCA6ogaL-n2x0VuzRssx9fgwn8koC4RK_DwzdmFjsDDbyfd2euWPnNxK18OhSV56-CqL1CGBubkN/s1600/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvNjar0FpB-WamhS75F2vAKNQcHSwmjldWVmlUPyXQsX5cXC-2DaqROkUpTA33T8cUCA6ogaL-n2x0VuzRssx9fgwn8koC4RK_DwzdmFjsDDbyfd2euWPnNxK18OhSV56-CqL1CGBubkN/s320/Georgetown,+Long+Island,+Cat+Island,+Rock+Sound+Eleuthera+065.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">White Cay Bank</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The gang was up early with
the VHF transmissions between ‘Kathrian’, ‘Moma Cal’ & us; they motored
passed about 0745 hrs.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A moderating
north easterlies forecasted for today & more so tomorrow per Chris.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Net was long today as there were many new
arrivals announcing themselves as well as few departures including
ourselves.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Surprisingly an ease up
anchor after 15 days anchored in the same spot.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We motored passed ‘Second Option’ & hurray there fridge was working;
the sensing probe had been jammed up against the wall.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">You never know we might meet up again sooner
than later if they are not caught in Georgetown.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">There were 3 boats departing via Three Fathom
Channel to Channel Rocks when suddenly 2 returned to Georgetown.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The waves were 2-4 footers then 1-3 ft. in the
deep water to Pigeon Cay & on SE to Hog Cay.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">At that waypoint we turned east to White Cay
Bank, passed Indian Hole Point to Thompson Bay.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We saw 4 dolphins + 1 baby dolphin!</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The east winds unfortunately were on our nose so we motored &
charged all devices.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Greg & I were
the 2 man coral head brigade at appropriate times.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Approaching Indian Hole Point we saw a fair
number of boats tucked up into the Thompson Bay anchorage + a few in Salt Pond
off of the government dock & Long Island Breeze.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">An impromptu Cruisers Happy Hour was
announced on the beach at 1700 hrs., bring boat cards, drinks & a snack to
share.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">And the same munchies type food
was continued afterwards on the boat for supper.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We did have a short interval of red sky after
sunset, then a clear starry sky followed.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Suddenly it became cloudy & a heavy rain prevailed X 5 mins.; this
was welcomed to clean all the salt from the decks, hatches, ports &
enclosure.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A very warm, quiet night though.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">I almost don’t remember this kind of night
without howling winds & no boat movement.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-24473932038821793092013-01-29T10:21:00.000-08:002013-04-21T14:04:39.943-07:00Week 17: Jan. 23-28, 2013 (Day 113-119)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 17:<sup><o:p></o:p></sup></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Jan 23, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 113:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 15-20K <i>Seas:</i> 1-2 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy, a rain shower—I not very often have
had to leave out the word sun<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX5r59SMiSwHvgQS4fN6Y5Rie-iE0nDvOhWTdnUNFH5Cdc4cimYe804MNSDTfFpcnQMvg03OTQLqHW0Qp6c_Yspam7HNABw9WyfIg3J5JtD3_qCndO3VbCWM8ZXCOXBTGGnl6U9qNanRfX/s1600/Monument+Beach,+Stocking+Island+087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX5r59SMiSwHvgQS4fN6Y5Rie-iE0nDvOhWTdnUNFH5Cdc4cimYe804MNSDTfFpcnQMvg03OTQLqHW0Qp6c_Yspam7HNABw9WyfIg3J5JtD3_qCndO3VbCWM8ZXCOXBTGGnl6U9qNanRfX/s320/Monument+Beach,+Stocking+Island+087.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Monument Beach, Stocking Island on a good day</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A rain shower at 0400 hrs.
had us scrambling to close hatches & ports & cockpit enclosure; slept
lightly afterwards. Chris talked of the
cold front from the Abacos reaching Central & Southern Bahamas today on his
SSB broadcast, with strong northerly winds continuing through Fri. afternoon;
well it started earlier after the morning rain & gusted & howled
throughout the day. Day 3 of yoga &
started to feeling more comfortable with the moves. Graeme did an engine oil change in my
absence. We started finding new storage
homes to clear the aft cabin for our guests.
Joe Frost (Gemini) arrived in Georgetown yesterday afternoon &
contacted us this am. He was having
dinghy engine problems, brought it to Minns this am & this aft Graeme
dinghied him to town from his boat anchored at Monument Beach. They both arrived back here wet to the
gills. We had sometime catching up with
his news. Otherwise it was a day of
reading in the cockpit, watching boats around us at anchor & the weather,
just too wet of a day to be out running around in the dinghy. There was only a single conch blower heard
when the sun set behind the landmass with a brief time of red evening sky. The east wind continued to blow & howl,
the wind generator worked overtime the
night was quite bright because of the ¾ moon in a partially clear sky with
stars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Jan. 24, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
114:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E to NE then NE to NNE 12-20K with frequent
bursts of over 20K <i>Seas:</i>
1-2 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> partly sunny & cloudy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigaBjzP0EoqZ5z22Z1WVNF21r9Jgf4OCBagQg7PiZfHO8z2quzkr2Z6rL7xZq7q5sYWelijjjKMh04yIOOToo8KsTl9nj3MAvBYA0wig4vA34_oO5bCON4Ldgle0Nt3qhdS56w1CqSuEHJ/s1600/Georgetown+023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigaBjzP0EoqZ5z22Z1WVNF21r9Jgf4OCBagQg7PiZfHO8z2quzkr2Z6rL7xZq7q5sYWelijjjKMh04yIOOToo8KsTl9nj3MAvBYA0wig4vA34_oO5bCON4Ldgle0Nt3qhdS56w1CqSuEHJ/s320/Georgetown+023.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Atlantic Shore of Stocking Island </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Not encouraging weather
report for several more days per SSB & later confirmed on Wind Alert. Another yoga morning with great attendance
despite the wind conditions. Only
minimal housecleaning but Graeme requested a haircut (#2). Then early in the afternoon we dinghied to
town; surprisingly a dry ride across the harbour surfing on the waves. The waves increased closer to Kidd Cove. I bought only a minimum of groceries at Exuma
Markets, a very brief time checking emails at Eddies, checked the Corner
Laundromat hours (M- Sat. 0830-1630 hrs.), another case of beer & bank
withdrawal for Graeme at Scotiabank. We
saw Joe being towed into Lake Victoria to Minns; ? fuel pump. ‘Moma Cal’ moved to Exuma Docking Marina ($2.00
per ft., electricity $20.00 per day) as they were awaiting the arrival of
family guests this evening. Then it was
a VERY wet dinghy ride home. ‘Kathrian’
invited us over for some socializing as we really had not seem much of them for
a few days. And not such a wet ride over
or back, but the temps dropped after sunset.
A minimal red sky tonight but a bright night sky due to a near full moon
despite the clouds. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Jan. 25, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
115:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> ENE to E 13-18K, gusts 20K+ <i>Seas:</i> 1-2 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly cloudy unfortunately with a few sunny
periods in the afternoon, H=87F & L=66F<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxeb3D-n1pq83W6QN6W7jhNuQ3lM9eE8rtFHrbbTt6quXlRT4AQxO6-VPFjnwbNyCUqLu3O0JJUvSXjM3y3sOS7Sbeto2xLokXfBkoCvSv2s61vLSqms4yKMRk6y1UUbTO1hKp8EWqOxh/s1600/Volleyball+Beach+094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxeb3D-n1pq83W6QN6W7jhNuQ3lM9eE8rtFHrbbTt6quXlRT4AQxO6-VPFjnwbNyCUqLu3O0JJUvSXjM3y3sOS7Sbeto2xLokXfBkoCvSv2s61vLSqms4yKMRk6y1UUbTO1hKp8EWqOxh/s320/Volleyball+Beach+094.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Yoga Classes on Volley Ball Beach by this sign</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We didn’t lose much sleep
despite the high winds howling with the occasional very brief periods of no
howling & light winds; in fact we woke up unusually late & caught Chris
already in progress. A large number of
us attended yoga; it was quite cool on the beach & the dinghy ride there
& back was amazingly dry. Doug’s
family guests arrived & happy campers there. Joe’s dinghy engine problems continued
despite all the new replacement parts & labour at Minns (expensive); he
tried to purchase a new Suzuki 6hp 4 stroke engine from the marine past Red
Shanks yesterday but the credit card machine was not working; with persistence
today the transaction was approved so the purchase was made. Graeme followed Joe from his boat at Monument
Beach to town & didn’t the old engine quit just as he was approaching the
dock. In the meantime with the change of
wind direction + the trawler to our port put out a 2nd anchor 1-2 days ago , we
were no longer swinging similarly & coming too close for my liking. I contacted Graeme to get back here ASAP as I
could not do anything on my own & I could not hail the trawler on VHF. He was drenched on arrival & assured me
all was O.K. Then suddenly the occupants
of the trawler came outside. They were
very amiable & understood my concern & said they would readjust their
anchors; by evening with the wind clocking from ENE to E we were now directly
in front of them & over their anchor.
No social tonight but we met ‘Kathrian’, ‘Sea Camp’, E2Motion’ &
‘Slow Flight’ at Chat’n Chill & Joe arrived as well. Unfortunately it was too far, too lumpy &
too wet a ride to attend the Department of Tourism Appreciation Party at Peace
& Plenty. Quite cool tonight & a
somewhat wet ride home. I never saw a
decrease in winds this aft as Chris predicted.
I phoned Mom tonight. No red sky; bright night with a very near full
moon & stars visible in the clear patches of sky between the cloud patches.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Jan. 26, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
116:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 12-20K <i> Seas:</i> 1-2 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny & cloudy periods<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xOckYbd6dRUBu1QMvv1q72NyKcOnoU74yuHFdmh_PCI-T2kKrHks5NMwJrBMp1yg377b6VxDgGPvhBFR7Gn-FOhNVjPRU4v0BlTSy0ZL2To5BYno50OYEZOnOiirCPN9j2jpPrxIKFVa/s1600/Georgetown+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xOckYbd6dRUBu1QMvv1q72NyKcOnoU74yuHFdmh_PCI-T2kKrHks5NMwJrBMp1yg377b6VxDgGPvhBFR7Gn-FOhNVjPRU4v0BlTSy0ZL2To5BYno50OYEZOnOiirCPN9j2jpPrxIKFVa/s320/Georgetown+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Some of the boats anchoring off Stocking Island</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The winds & seas
calmed down a bit during the night. I
woke at 0400 hrs. & had the full moon shining in the starboard deck window
+ a large anchor light from the trawler behind us shining in the
companionway. SSB & Cruisers Net at
0630 hrs. & 0800 hrs. respectively.
Yoga at 0900 hrs., then with the laundry sorted & organized,
computer in backpack bagged & garbage we set off for shore. 3 washers ($2.50 ea) & 2 dryers ($4.00 ea
X 40 min.)—Total= $19.50. I was able to
do a little work on emails at Eddies between loads, then we attended St. Theresa’s
Catholic Church fund raising BBQ lunch ($10.00 ea) for steak/chicken huge backed
potato, corn & salad with Joe, Ted & Ginnie (Fire Cracker—Saga 43);
‘Kathrian’ & ‘Sea Camp’ finished as we arrived. We introduced our lunch guests to Shop Rite
& purchased long life milk, then a round of beers at Bikini Bottoms. A VERY wet dinghy ride home but only the
pillowcases, the bottom of the laundry trolley & the bottom outside of my
backpack got a little wet. We were a
bear for punishment—we donned our wet foul weather gear back on & met the
‘Moma Cal’ clan & Joe at Chat ’n Chill & fed & played with the rays
again. Once home we both showered. We did not take note of the sunset sky, but
officially it was full moon tonight, therefore it was very bright, fleeting
clouds + stars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Jan. 27, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
117:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 10-20K
<i>Seas:</i>
1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny & blue sky<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPH8xff_FHsZzQ8gAsV6lcY5y65cZ0obCY1H_1rnswJZaZmG265VELlhYuRKiqnb0ik490SStXLj3JUPvWJS6rcWX57pzVY-F_Uot1xh4UPvDBoi-6bSvCdcdBDaDgVJ4hbrORZRV0wam/s1600/Beach+Church,+Volleyball+Beach+092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPH8xff_FHsZzQ8gAsV6lcY5y65cZ0obCY1H_1rnswJZaZmG265VELlhYuRKiqnb0ik490SStXLj3JUPvWJS6rcWX57pzVY-F_Uot1xh4UPvDBoi-6bSvCdcdBDaDgVJ4hbrORZRV0wam/s320/Beach+Church,+Volleyball+Beach+092.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Beach Worship</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A sleep in morning & a
glorious sunny day. Net at 0800 hrs.
& Beach Worship at 0930 hrs.; so well attended again this Sunday & just
as warm & welcoming. Thank you Chip,
Elena & John for the ride there & back & your warm hugs. A number of boats were changing their
location today. SCT Barber Shop set up
shop for a brief time; just simple clean up jobs for Joe & Jack’s hair in
the neck area below their hairlines & Graeme showed Jack how to trim his
beard with the electric trimmer. We
sited turtles swimming around the boat just before we were off in our dinghies
with Joe to Sand Dollar Beach. No sand
dollars but we hiked the Cliff Path, Sally’s Path & Lavender Path to the
caves & blow holes X 2 hrs.; not the blow holes of Warderick Wells. Then to Volleyball Beach where there was lots
of people & activity. We met the NSC
gang & others for some socializing. We
got home just before sundown. The chop
was slightly less this evening & there was a magnificent red sky. By darkness the winds were blowing &
howling 15-20K, so the wind generator was having a hay day. In fact between the sun & solar panels
& the 15-20K for most of these winter days & the wind generator, Graeme has been very pleased with the charge
of the batteries. Nevertheless we are
careful & conservative. A starry
night with a bright moon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Jan. 28, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
118:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 15+K to ESE 10-12K <i>Seas:</i> 1 ft. with 2 ft.
rollers, calming to < 1 ft. chop<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny & blue sky<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZaIpop8yJemM5EPS3qfPx3hRDTQ4FM90VQQzCSfRpzCGWcmpNsyoB6pvuI1ADaSjOw4QPFm9nAUUPW-VBAPxQyPFsjtRC3BlFjcwxxpcIeBVPoJUnl5I4FS4aJOTGf5oPDuzNhNXqWY4m/s1600/Georgetown+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZaIpop8yJemM5EPS3qfPx3hRDTQ4FM90VQQzCSfRpzCGWcmpNsyoB6pvuI1ADaSjOw4QPFm9nAUUPW-VBAPxQyPFsjtRC3BlFjcwxxpcIeBVPoJUnl5I4FS4aJOTGf5oPDuzNhNXqWY4m/s320/Georgetown+035.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">The Ottawa Gang (except one)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As usual the day began
with SSB at 0630 hrs., followed by breakfast & the Net at 0800 hrs. And after a day of rest it was back to yoga
at 0900 hrs. while Graeme changed a fan belt that we dug out from the back of
the garage; it was nearly totally destroyed.
I spent the rest of the morning removing stuff from the aft cabin for
our guests. Just after noon we dinghied
down to Monument Beach; 9 of us hiked Isis Path, Nev’s Trail to Nev’s Beach
(long, no sea glass, no beans & only tiny shells); I detoured up the Slide
to the Monument & back to the beach.
At the private homes we turned around & hiked Marie’s Path to
Intrepid Path (steep) to the Monument—a spectacular view, then back to the
dinghies, where we stood in the water chatting & watching 3 boats
arriving. Could one be ‘Second
Option’? Joe & Ginnie & Ted met
Terri & Bill at Staniel Cay. All the
bars were closed till 1800 hrs. today as it was election day in the Bahamas, even
Double D here on Monument Beach. Joe
& I dinghied out to see if the center cockpit Hunter that anchored off
Monument was ‘Second Option’, but it was not.
To ‘Firecracker’ (Saga 43) & given a tour—lovely. To ‘Gemini’ for a black & stormy & a
few nibblies until the sun had set behind the cloud & landmass. Joe started the conch blowers in this part of
the anchorage. We declined supper but
were sent home with homemade cookies, the seas had calmed so the ride was not a
wet one as expected. Another magnificent
red sky, then a diminishing full moon & clear starry night sky.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Jan. 29, 2013— <span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
119:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 15K with gusts to 20K <i>Seas:</i> 1-2 ft. with 2 ft.
rollers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-WWiua8d7LBvkne3uMR2FQMT6wJvVYZ_jS_s98-Q7bWMXrKj2HkUP-OIgKNOPRqaqcQDIJKtLSB-2zQuqjaFq6bmpHV6R6O4ydTD0NS_A6w2m9sayeCz12OSg7QCgvXanFDiWybEzN66n/s1600/Mike+&+Josh+on+Azeroth,+Georgetown+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-WWiua8d7LBvkne3uMR2FQMT6wJvVYZ_jS_s98-Q7bWMXrKj2HkUP-OIgKNOPRqaqcQDIJKtLSB-2zQuqjaFq6bmpHV6R6O4ydTD0NS_A6w2m9sayeCz12OSg7QCgvXanFDiWybEzN66n/s320/Mike+&+Josh+on+Azeroth,+Georgetown+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Mike McGoldrick & Josh Rausson--Azeroth</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The persistent windy
conditions were getting a bit depressing.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">At least there were no westerlies predicted & not losing any sleep,
but we would like to move on once our guests arrive tomorrow & after Super
Bowl Sunday.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">I have enjoyed yoga; at
least it was an hour of stretches & relaxation & not thinking about
being wet & salty & tracking salt on & into the boat.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We had a good dry ride into town mid am,
refilling 2 jerry cans of water, garbage, few groceries & emails, some of
relieved & happy news & not so happy news about friends.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The ride home mid afternoon was quite the
opposite.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The dinghy was filling with
salt water as we hit waves upon waves that cascaded in.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Groceries & backpack with laptop were
covered with plastic within plastic.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As
Graeme drove facing forwards I sat with my back to the bow & continuously
sponged water from the dinghy floor; the waves won.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The aft cabin was completely cleaned &
freed of “stuff” & fresh linens laid out.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Arrangements were made for a social at Chat ‘n Chill; Joe joined us, ‘E
2 Motion’ & even Mike & Josh, who had returned from a few days in
Rudder Cut Cay, Little Darby, Williams Cay & Childrens Bay Cay area,
catching a mahi mahi nearing Conch Cut, but ‘Moma Cal’ never showed.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">I missed the sunset.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">It seemed slightly less windy driving
home.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A darker night as the moon was
rising later & less full, so the stars were more brilliant in the clear
night sky.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-49996681559911479762013-01-19T11:37:00.003-08:002013-03-05T09:47:25.502-08:00Week 16: Jan. 16-22, 2013 (Day 106-112)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 16:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Jan. 16, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
106:</span><span style="color: red;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination: Little Farmers Cay to Rudders Cut Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure: 0940 hrs. Arrival: 1145 hrs. Distance: approx. 9 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: E 12-16K; SE 13-18K after sunset Seas: 1-2 ft. chop<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather: cloud</span><b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">rain showers</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloud with sunny breaks</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mainly sunny <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN7ENcNRpbMKrXC2sM1nhtHsARuqbo5paOg21_xnzZxEmJzHNiIJPfLd-j6cu9k8OsUM6WPlzxrzDZR6KqM3GPLkItBiSUjLAKnpyiV_JKWAI-sPt6lZgA5vuQBdUBFV2a3MCG3V53vv_a/s1600/Musha+Cay+037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN7ENcNRpbMKrXC2sM1nhtHsARuqbo5paOg21_xnzZxEmJzHNiIJPfLd-j6cu9k8OsUM6WPlzxrzDZR6KqM3GPLkItBiSUjLAKnpyiV_JKWAI-sPt6lZgA5vuQBdUBFV2a3MCG3V53vv_a/s320/Musha+Cay+037.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Musha Cay</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlAcTLy-ciCTZ6jO4Y9JYSPn4Y1xQ8aGmWIWzXCi-VJKN9sVQrRcZaHVQD4z8fSYGRBOu-r1yEgsM8xs9XP5UN4h2wuNArPPLRUg4BoGuzcwd3Q-8MaFMWDX3NXYZlv_DRNVngi-tRpQd/s1600/Rudder+Cut+Cay++048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlAcTLy-ciCTZ6jO4Y9JYSPn4Y1xQ8aGmWIWzXCi-VJKN9sVQrRcZaHVQD4z8fSYGRBOu-r1yEgsM8xs9XP5UN4h2wuNArPPLRUg4BoGuzcwd3Q-8MaFMWDX3NXYZlv_DRNVngi-tRpQd/s320/Rudder+Cut+Cay++048.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Piano & Mermaid at Rudder Cay</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">I woke at about 0200 hrs.
as the sea state had changed & became a little bouncy; also I started
calculating when low tide was next & if we would touch bottom this time,
but fortunately not. There was a change
in the weather forecast especially for those waiting to cross from Florida
& in the Abacos on SSB this morning.
We planned our departure to coincide with a rising tide as we were
taking a shallow VPR (visual piloting rule) route to our destination today. A great 30 min. sail with the jenny on a
close reach (5.7-6.3K) via the deep route from the anchorage to Big Farmers
waypoint, then we had to turn east or port toward Galliot Cay so had to roll
the sail in. Then we turned to starboard past Big Galliot Cay to Cave Cay. We had a good view of the sea state on the
Sound as we crossed Galliot Cut; very doable & tempting! But we really wanted to see the many very
small Exuma Cays that I have only read about even though most are private. Cay (a narrow but marked channel into the
marina—hurricane hole) then Musha Cay, absolutely stunning waters & palm
community with resorts & homes, all private. We completed our VPR route at Rudder Cut Cay,
also impressive with it’s beaches & caves but also private, anchoring in
the 2<sup>nd</sup> anchorage in 12 ft. water & 100 ft. chain. The passage today was done on a rising near
high tide & the least depth we saw was 10 ft. It was a good thing we arrived when we did as
now 9 boats were anchored in the vicinity.
‘Moma Cal’ invited us for drinks & nibbles at 1230 hrs.; lots of
chatter & laughs & book exchanges.
The crew from ‘Truansea’ dinghied over from Little Darby anchorage where
many of “the gang” were anchored—no more room; they mentioned a very neat
snorkeling treasure close by. So before
it got too late Jack, Bud & I grabbed our snorkeling gear & cameras
& checked out this special snorkeling site.
Low & behold, we found a stainless steel baby grand piano &
bench & mermaid just offshore not far from Rudder Cay Cut! How cool!
A quick shower then to ‘Sea Camp’ for Happy Hour & watching the
sunset which was obscured by clouds, but a good orangey sky did follow. A well defined ¼ moon, some cloud, lots of
clear sky & stars+++ were visible tonight.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguPlrAwNPNbJpcw05xMFi24cSkwpj66xp76rpGwGaxwCJi85rD0sj5ECbkRDeZw0PHDXa0Tco9VVRuPxa1VeHPZvWSvaCzFF1fHsluS3tlKc8nMCzVGS1viSBJCaZkPjSY1xXrAP8IG7lU/s1600/Georgetown+086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguPlrAwNPNbJpcw05xMFi24cSkwpj66xp76rpGwGaxwCJi85rD0sj5ECbkRDeZw0PHDXa0Tco9VVRuPxa1VeHPZvWSvaCzFF1fHsluS3tlKc8nMCzVGS1viSBJCaZkPjSY1xXrAP8IG7lU/s320/Georgetown+086.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyCiZTg6FjUZIwzuqTLb9rmJvM-ue3Dln3ceyH61wRi2TAjiREjyclHY47vEAjqADZma9tjBGdEpC_t0fZNNzOP8k_vLAgDrT2zg8sxUK30l2sjuGP3LQBtvOQ0j20T2ywBN5Y2OlTmjz/s1600/Rudder+Cut+Cay++043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyCiZTg6FjUZIwzuqTLb9rmJvM-ue3Dln3ceyH61wRi2TAjiREjyclHY47vEAjqADZma9tjBGdEpC_t0fZNNzOP8k_vLAgDrT2zg8sxUK30l2sjuGP3LQBtvOQ0j20T2ywBN5Y2OlTmjz/s320/Rudder+Cut+Cay++043.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Noon Hour Happy Hour </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Jan. 17, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
107:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Rudder Cut Cay to Williams Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0915 hrs. <i> Arrival:</i> 1145 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> approx. 9 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SE to S to E</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 8-11K <i>Seas:</i> 0 to minimum waves,
2-3 ft. swells with occasional 4 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sun</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> heavy dark clouds</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sprinkle of rain</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloud with some sun</span> <span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">rain X 2 min.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly sun with some cloud<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjChyphenhyphenNBBmdZqub0H0JAsX8ti-OzQpQjVLzBldg1LQGmmXTgTdPAFqjrmtD3x2u88EgKtFPds7UUkOUxJYWSEbyvvrt3cqtogr-hk5e_JdVyvAedirfutmLLj5EIzGd3YqbZutKSFJTq4paB/s1600/Rays+at+Williams+Cay+073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjChyphenhyphenNBBmdZqub0H0JAsX8ti-OzQpQjVLzBldg1LQGmmXTgTdPAFqjrmtD3x2u88EgKtFPds7UUkOUxJYWSEbyvvrt3cqtogr-hk5e_JdVyvAedirfutmLLj5EIzGd3YqbZutKSFJTq4paB/s320/Rays+at+Williams+Cay+073.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Rays at Childrens Cay</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The winds through the
night had calmed by morning; a bright start to the day. SSB received at 0630 hrs. but very
interrupted reception from Blue Yonder; SE winds were predicted to moderate
today as well as the sea & even more tomorrow. ‘Moma Cal’, ‘Kathrian’ & ourselves
decided to give a departure a try, but ‘Sea Camp’ decided to wait until
tomorrow instead & meet up with us in Georgetown tomorrow. We put a general call out & received
favourable feedback from ‘Hey Jude’ out on Exuma Sound. It was a rising tide, therefore a 3K current
against us going out Rudder Cut, but very doable & not uncomfortable. Out on Exuma Sound there were no to minimal
waves & just 1-3 ft. swells with an occasional 4 footer. We were able to motorsail with a 10-11K wind
for a short time until the wind dropped & shifted on our nose as weather
& clouds came & went. The first
rain cloud passed to our west, but there was a good shower in the anchorage we
had left according to Bud. In the
distance we saw a squall like cloud, which for the most part also passed us to
the west; there was no wind in it, just very calm & 2 min. of rain as we
approached Adderley Cut. Also there was
a dark cloud at our stern to the north & this current cloud appeared to be
moving also whence we came. It was quite
a gentle passage in past the awash rocks at Adderley Cut & good
depths. Some sailboats were anchored off
Leaf Cay to starboard. We motored to
port around & past the Caribbean Marine Research Center on Lee Stocking
Island & could hear the sound of birds singing, a sound I have not heard in
a while; we understand the research center may be closed due to lack of funds,
but mooring balls still in place.
Instead we moved down the lovely shoreline with it’s sandy beaches here & there & anchored in near 9 ft
water & 80 ft. chain. Graeme lowered
the dinghy & topped up the boat’s diesel tank (shy of 2 gal.). We explored the south end of Williams Cay,
across the shallow, gorgeous, unbelieveably clear & unimaginable pristine
colour of aqua water between Wiilimas & Childrens Bay Cays, where we saw
large groups of rays, near 20 in total; we visited ‘Fair Winds’ anchored here;
Louiselle even trimmed the back of my hair.
On our return trip we ventured up a dredged basin of a perspective
marina on Childrens Bay Cay, travelled along it’s west shoreline & the west
shores of Williams Cay, making a close pass of a couple of sandy beaches. We were invited onto ‘Valda IV’ (Tom & Mary), a 34 ft. catamaran. ‘Sweet Chariot Too’ hosted Happy Hour &
yes, we saw our 2<sup>nd</sup> green flash at sunset! A glorious red sky, calm+++, clear night sky
& stars+++. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppiIYDYrjevEMV3qCC1CiDZzRNgphxoxMIHGcmeGevqvWqeGGR-YjiYFYAu3IUqclW_bT973acQlKBGGmlUgf4H0jHmujNXfz7J7AIw7l_LKCR6x3GXtYGqjkCGhPcY78plFdMqmSBcvD/s1600/Jack+cleaning+coconuts%252C+Willimas+Cay+078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppiIYDYrjevEMV3qCC1CiDZzRNgphxoxMIHGcmeGevqvWqeGGR-YjiYFYAu3IUqclW_bT973acQlKBGGmlUgf4H0jHmujNXfz7J7AIw7l_LKCR6x3GXtYGqjkCGhPcY78plFdMqmSBcvD/s320/Jack+cleaning+coconuts%252C+Willimas+Cay+078.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Jack cleaning coconuts</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Jan. 18, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
108:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Williams Cay to Stocking Island-Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0850 hrs. <i> Arrival: </i> 1350 hrs. <i> Distance: </i> approx. 25.1 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> N 1-3K, increased to 4-6K, then NE 10-12K +
gusts by evening <i>Seas:</i> gentle rollers only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> warm+++, brilliant sun & only clouds in
the periphery <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9cclVViZGvQf1MYooS1wPrude3zauo5yxMFtaGzBvW7gOMC1of-sYEj79yCv7nmIe3ZHtgwtYzyK6hHdZD2Aj_hr9gQgISc8AwdgXzHe6Rb9l9aamq1xY0G1x3j6o3S_dt5IKt3qm8_3d/s1600/Amazing+Blue+of+Exuma+Sound+084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9cclVViZGvQf1MYooS1wPrude3zauo5yxMFtaGzBvW7gOMC1of-sYEj79yCv7nmIe3ZHtgwtYzyK6hHdZD2Aj_hr9gQgISc8AwdgXzHe6Rb9l9aamq1xY0G1x3j6o3S_dt5IKt3qm8_3d/s320/Amazing+Blue+of+Exuma+Sound+084.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Amazing blue of Exuma Sound</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">I can’t remember such
calmness during the night & in the am.
It has been so long, I would have to refer to my records. Looking through the wide open hatch during
the night & predawn, the stars & milky way were spectacular. The sound of birds in the early morning hours
was so delightful; large fish, probably a ray jumped out of the waterclose by
shore twice, although I was not quick enough to see but just heard the splash
& saw the rippled water. Calm
weather conditions were forecasted for today with increase winds by the evening. A flotilla of boats were heard leaving Rudder
Cut Cay & Little Darby Cay; in contact with ‘Truansea’ & ‘Sea
Camp’. On a rising tide we slowly
motored W & S of Windsock Cay (8ft.), SW of Childrens Bay Cay (20 ft.)
between Rat Cay & Pigeon Cay (24 ft.).
There was a 1-2K current against us motoring out of Rat Cay Cut that was
calm, no breaking waves & no waves in Exuma Sound, only long gentle rollers
+ a long flotilla of boats ahead & especially behind us. ‘Moma Cal’ & ‘Kathrian’ peeled off &
filled their boats with fuel & water in Emerald Bay Marina ($1.00/ ft. with
free WiFi & laundry); perfect sea conditions to enter their cut. The N winds increased just shy of the Conch
Cay waypoint, the turn in point to the route into Elizabeth Harbour. We first set anchor in Kidd Cove, right by
Georgetown but the water depth was only 7.4 ft. at high tide & no northerly
protection. We reanchored X 2 in 18 ft.
& 100ft. chain off Black Point, between Volleyball Beach & Sand Dollar
Beach off Stocking Island across from Georgetown. Once the dinghy was set we crossed Elizabeth
Harbour for Georgetown where we met some catamaran friends from Staniel Cay
& browsed through Exuma Markets, liquor stores, hardware store & topped
my Bahamian phone with $50.00 worth of minutes.
The north winds had increased to 10-12K with increasing consistent gusts
of 15K. An enjoyable time & dinner
was spent with Cherry & Doug & others were frequently have travelled
with. I missed the sunset but the night
sky was mostly clear with ½ moon & stars galore.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Jan. 19, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
109:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Stocking Island-Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> NE to E 8-10K <i>Seas:
</i><1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> partly cloudy, partly sunny, comfortable temps<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghLfOjp4XLOdWPCkCcXFmomrP3wH_hlpGs7OKrPsaUtlV0n4MRzkggkPnFq_ZxW-xhzJOx63hwuLXB7tGiFV3tugxAsRf2T5w3rn35DkNWu9U7w9ZPMwClkwW6-TQUTbt3mRlTu-NlSRYc/s1600/Georgetown+086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghLfOjp4XLOdWPCkCcXFmomrP3wH_hlpGs7OKrPsaUtlV0n4MRzkggkPnFq_ZxW-xhzJOx63hwuLXB7tGiFV3tugxAsRf2T5w3rn35DkNWu9U7w9ZPMwClkwW6-TQUTbt3mRlTu-NlSRYc/s320/Georgetown+086.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It was SSB at 0630 hrs.
& Georgetown Cruisers Net on VHF 72 at 0800 hrs. Herman on ‘White Wing‘ was emcee. At 0745 hrs. he made an announcement on VHF
16 & 68 re the net at 0800 hrs. He
announced to many of us newcomers that VHF 68 is the usual channel of hailing
boats in Georgetown. This year I found
the net more businesslike & succinct than in the past, only lasting 30
min. Slowly we readied ourselves to
going ashore with 2 empty water jerry cans, after Graeme had emptied them into
the boat tank, shopping list, computer, garbage, & money. First task was filling the jerry cans of free
water, compliments of Exuma Markets & left them in the dinghy. Graeme went
to the Scotiabank ATM. Haircut for me at Tranees ($15.00), then we browsed
through shops & the straw market, & looked for internet as far as Peace
& Plenty, whose WiFi cost $5.00 X 1 hour; no internet at the library (hours
M-S 1000 to 1200 hrs.). Pett’s Place was closed but sign indicated internet was
$5.00 X 1<sup>st</sup> hour + $3.00 per additional hour, no internet at Exuma
Markets (secured now). Jack discovered
internet at the Medical Clinic & Cherry had access anchored in Kidd
Cove. We walked to Eddies Restaurant;
good internet (Edgewater) & had a late lunch. While Graeme browsed through his emails after
I was done with mine & posted my blog minus pictures, I did some grocery
shopping next door at the Shop Rite, a more local’s store. A slightly wet dinghy ride home at 1600
hrs. Then we both just read in the
cockpit until sunset until the lighting was too dark. One cannot see a complete sunset at
Georgetown as it is located on the east side of Great Exuma Island. But there were a few conch blowers in the
anchorages & a lovely red sky. Tonight the ½ moon was bright & the
skies were lightly but partly cloudy that cleared later in the night &
stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Jan. 19, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
109:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Stocking Island-Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E to SE 8K <i> Seas: </i><1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sun & blue sky<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8DIfNhqiFhBoF98uHubPCAy3dRaHJQDfGrDGNaK5AKyS2uam5v-vZcOauBnZOUCgYn8P2riLoga4FQaaRlD-5T9urad_FbF5xoEmJTVIPcVh2vsLuoq2AnyXbD8aYx3FaYWb9X_D-AklH/s1600/Beach+Church,+Volleyball+Beach+092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8DIfNhqiFhBoF98uHubPCAy3dRaHJQDfGrDGNaK5AKyS2uam5v-vZcOauBnZOUCgYn8P2riLoga4FQaaRlD-5T9urad_FbF5xoEmJTVIPcVh2vsLuoq2AnyXbD8aYx3FaYWb9X_D-AklH/s320/Beach+Church,+Volleyball+Beach+092.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbkW3v4gQ8kA9W4lHJ_R0v3BKjIOSQOgc0HT03MDtE1x0o2Mhci5DYxVMq-4lzNBSz9qkPsjQpwthZ90_9Umm4oL3Kxj7f4eau0tUEl72ct0nLfuVTc3mH_xzPk0DrpqS0mJfBl1nV7rr/s1600/Sunday+Pig+Roast+at+Chat'n+Chill+101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbkW3v4gQ8kA9W4lHJ_R0v3BKjIOSQOgc0HT03MDtE1x0o2Mhci5DYxVMq-4lzNBSz9qkPsjQpwthZ90_9Umm4oL3Kxj7f4eau0tUEl72ct0nLfuVTc3mH_xzPk0DrpqS0mJfBl1nV7rr/s320/Sunday+Pig+Roast+at+Chat'n+Chill+101.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Only Georgetown Cruisers Net at 0800 hrs. was
available to us.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I attended the Beach
Worship (non denominational) at 0930 hrs. at Volleyball Beach; terrific, warm
& interactive; special intentions for Linda MacDonald & Kelly Buckley.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">A social took place afterwards.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In the meantime Graeme did some dinghy
exploring down to Hamburger & Monument Beaches.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Then together we did a dinghy tour of the
hurricane holes #1, 2 & 3 of Stocking Island & St. Francis Marina &
Resort; met tourists from Constance Bay.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">After lunch we dinghied across Elizabeth Harbour to return a loaned book
to Josh, ‘Azeroth’ & into Georgetown for water, gas & email, just
sitting outside Pett’s Place.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Mid
afternoon we dinghied to Chat ’n Chills for their Sunday pig roast ($20.00)
& the 1</span><sup style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">st</sup><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> NFL playoff game between Atlanta & San Francisco.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">A red sky after sunset, a sudden onset of a
dark rain cloud with only sprinkles, then clear skies with ½ moon & stars.</span> <b><o:p></o:p></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Jan. 21, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
111:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination: Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: E-</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">SE-</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">S-</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">SW-</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">E 5K Seas: <1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather: glorious sunny day with brief rain shower
about noon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Flat calm during the night
& upon rising. Chris’ forecast for
the day proved to be correct—light & variable. We listened at the Net as well. Several attended yoga on Volleyball Beach at
0900 hrs.; the instructor & program was very good. Graeme in the meantime went to town for
?. I had to take a dip into the lovely
water after yoga as the sand from the beach was sticking to me. Other adventures of the day included getting
another island book from Josh (Azeroth), buying fresh fruit at Exuma Markets,
dropping an empty propane tank at Forbes for next day pick up, a visit to the
Department of Tourism, Batelco office & internet at Eddies. We had a sudden onset of rain shower about
noon; this was the 1<sup>st</sup> time we left the hatches open but it seemed
that it may not have rained in the anchorage but only in town as everything was
dry. We took a long dinghy exploring
trip along the NE shore of Rolle Cay, in & around Crab Cay, under the
lovely Crab Cay Bridge & around George Devine Cay & Red Shanks
anchorage; in so doing we were also looking for a new, better & less
expensive laundromat we were told about in the vicinity than Corner Laundromat
in town but were unsuccessful. A
spectacular sunset sky tonight. We
invited Cherry & Doug over for just a simple spaghetti dinner; a great
evening with old friends. And we were
still up after 2200 hrs. An equally
spectacular night sky; flat calm, stars+++ & 2/3 moon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Jan. 22, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
112:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Georgetown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S to SW then by evening W <i>Seas:</i> calm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny, occasional cloud, warm &
comfortable temps<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">I guess we will be in
Georgetown for a while longer; (1) guests are arriving Jan. 30<sup>th,</sup>
& (2) weather on SSB, NOAA, Nassau Net, & Wind Alert were predicting a
strong & lengthy cold front with northerly winds arriving later today. Crusiers Net surprisingly has continued to be
streamlined & concise. Yoga on
Volleyball Beach with good attendance at 0900 hrs.—back & joint class,
followed by another skinny dip sea bath to get rid of sand. Then across the pond to town for water, a can
of gas, a short internet session including lunch at Eddies & to pick up the
refilled propane tank at Forbes ($15.00); new propane place in town with wait
& fill service not far from Palm Bay Resort & “very reasonable
prices”. Graeme saw a shark under the
dinghy as we were scooting across the harbour; the water was flat calm. We explored more by dinghy in the afternoon--
to hurricane hole #1 (2 houseboats), to the lagoon with private homes around
the perimeter, beached the dinghy & walked up the hill to the main
beach—miles of glorious white sand both of the baby powder nature &
coarser, tons of tiny shells, gently crashing waves & so few people, then
to Volleyball Beach where the conch shack is set up. Here we touched & photographed friendly
rays that would swim up to you & brush against you, eat conch from your hand;
they felt like soft suede. Mike
McGoldrich arrived at evening time as a guest on ‘Azeroth’, so Josh hosted a
social on his cat; we all brought nibblies & we got to sample some of the
mackerel he caught & coconut curry rice.
There was a red sky & clouds after sunset; a clear star filled night
sky & 2/3 moon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> <b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-51414709911893614882013-01-10T09:48:00.004-08:002013-01-21T11:02:06.614-08:00Week 15: Jan. 9-15, 2013 (Day 99-105)<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week</span></b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;"> <b>15:</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Jan 9, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 99:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Black Point<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 15-25K with gusts especially after sunset
upper 20’s <i> Seas: </i> near 1 ft. chop<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:<b><span style="color: #0070c0;"> </span></b></span></i><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">mix of sun & cloud, warm & less humid<b><i><span style="color: #0070c0;"> <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6-yimgsorKFe4CosW49VafyEToigB3JWFyJcenCxCH2I4XsLF97NpKMTQX7529HZkVpweaTTslFbHeyEYgsfM12cE4lp7DevPxrgCdvGqXsf5K8m2LWwfYH07LBMO5pLxG7hF72vtPJ8/s1600/Exumas+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6-yimgsorKFe4CosW49VafyEToigB3JWFyJcenCxCH2I4XsLF97NpKMTQX7529HZkVpweaTTslFbHeyEYgsfM12cE4lp7DevPxrgCdvGqXsf5K8m2LWwfYH07LBMO5pLxG7hF72vtPJ8/s320/Exumas+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">The Girls at Work</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwC689ojICWHXNj1K5YcOoOdAmYFWKyOp07PnX4XXp3oqYi3HxmfcHhxZpEvJRlii10LD86BxPA8eOqGZKNiNcrdvYtWefOwTZDdS79BmtPHXbM7yehYh8UjZbPJEgHyJuLXQhW5Da3BAD/s1600/Exumas+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwC689ojICWHXNj1K5YcOoOdAmYFWKyOp07PnX4XXp3oqYi3HxmfcHhxZpEvJRlii10LD86BxPA8eOqGZKNiNcrdvYtWefOwTZDdS79BmtPHXbM7yehYh8UjZbPJEgHyJuLXQhW5Da3BAD/s320/Exumas+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">And the Boys Concept of Work</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx77Tt-n41XaxR1bb3WATHsn2_Dh4yJwPQB11og5Gp1U-mtDh6eMOjiH2fnI2AkFjQ0Wb8L-CGOgvoAwzE0vGG9eVfJFVjDykACno-pe9FXf-Erizm4S5tm4w0n24_vkUdoulVL3hQOREL/s1600/Exumas+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx77Tt-n41XaxR1bb3WATHsn2_Dh4yJwPQB11og5Gp1U-mtDh6eMOjiH2fnI2AkFjQ0Wb8L-CGOgvoAwzE0vGG9eVfJFVjDykACno-pe9FXf-Erizm4S5tm4w0n24_vkUdoulVL3hQOREL/s320/Exumas+003.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The easterly winds kicked
up sometime during the night, but it was interesting that there were cyclical,
brief periods of much calmer winds then back to the howling gusts. The winds remained strong with white crested
chop all day, maybe slight moderation in the afternoon, but increased
significantly after sunset. Also of
interest was the little number of boats who called into Chris Parker after his
synopsis & forecasted weather yesterday & today; I guess most boats
were staying put for this prolonged blow till next week. About 1100 hrs. we dinghied to shore &
connected up to the net for some emails but finally posted pictures on my blog
for the last 4 weeks, a very time consuming job. Now I see that since I have increased the
prose to the template of my blog, pictures etc. are not set up as attractively
as I have in draft; another project when I get back to Ottawa. Cherry was at Lorraine’s doing real work
& laundry, & Jack & Donna did projects on board before coming to
shore to do internet & laundry. I
was glad Jack checked our Wind Alert as I had forgotten to do so. Later in the afternoon once the day’s
projects were done we collected at De Shamons for a drink, then continued Happy
Hour till 2000 hrs. on ‘Kathrian’. The
wind was quite fierce & perhaps it appeared so because the night was so
black, which added to the eeriness. No
moon, amazing stars & howling winds.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Jan. 10, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
100:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">E 15K & gusts to 20K<i> Seas: </i>white crested 1 ft. chop & rollers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">mostly sunny, few clouds, warm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Terrible, scratchy
reception by Chris this morning & very late broadcast as well. While the tide was high we went ashore to
fill 2 jerry cans of water from the town spigot, emptying 1-1/2 cans into the
boat tank & to shore again to refill 1 jerry can. Late morning we arrived at De Shamons &
got Graeme set up to do emails while I walked X 1-1/2 hrs. to the north end of
the island & checked the beach for sea beans on the return route. We sat & talked to Jackie & Roger
(‘Audacious’) over the lunch hour. The
mailboat was in Staniel Cay this am & finally arrived here at about 1400
hrs. There was a line up at Atterley’s;
people had been waiting an hour while they were still unloading supplies from
the mailboat. We went home for lunch
then returned 1-1/2 hrs. later for some fresh veggies & fruit; NEAR NO
SUPPLIES LEFT! To say the least, I was
very disappointed; no butter, no ground beef, no bananas, poor pick of apples
& tomatoes only. I drowned my sorrow
at Happy Hour at Scorpios with their 2 for 1 rum punches. Kidding, only partly but shared conversation with
treasured old friends & new friends.
We had a quick but substantial supper at home despite the late hour
& too much rum. Another dark night
but amazing clear sky of stars+++. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Jan. 11,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 101:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> ancora Black Point<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 15-20K <i>Seas:</i>
1 ft. chop & rollers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> partly sunny & cloudy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Excellent SSB reception this am; what a
difference a day makes. And the best
news was the improving/ moderating easterly wind conditions over the coming few
days & week. This was all supported
by the weather report from ‘Blue Yonder’.
Extreme high & extreme low tides were observed today. After breakfast it was a morning of cleaning
the main cabin above the floor level, washing the cockpit cushions &
cockpit & changing the bed linen. As
a departure day appears to be in sight, the laundry was organized & it was
off to Rockside Laundromat late am; 3 loads of washing & 2 loads of drying ($17.50)
+ internet + charging cell phones, toothbrush & iPod. Unfortunately the laundry was still damp
after the drying cycle & required it to be spread throughout the boat. An impromptu social lunch was held with
Cherry & Doug. Jack & Donna had
relocated their boat to a more eastern, more protected part of Black Point. Happy Hour again at Scorpios, but I was
better behaved tonight. We met friends
of Dave & Wendy McConnell of Winnipeg (‘Sa’ Yes’). Although another dark night with no moon, the
stars in the clear sky were phenomenal.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoa9zx3E0opc2c8JloHNWfWmrCMubigwQ6K-oRayRbf6bVdkoxabhbhGDiXTOpFQGYgXmowhCZ6g2Z1UF1qykdWPK8rRh4FyPl2PlTKRezKJFZsioP3ZkR8hbLL4T2Lyw_lWNfHR4tjXNY/s1600/Black+Point%252C+Great+Guana+Cay%252C+Exuma+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoa9zx3E0opc2c8JloHNWfWmrCMubigwQ6K-oRayRbf6bVdkoxabhbhGDiXTOpFQGYgXmowhCZ6g2Z1UF1qykdWPK8rRh4FyPl2PlTKRezKJFZsioP3ZkR8hbLL4T2Lyw_lWNfHR4tjXNY/s320/Black+Point%252C+Great+Guana+Cay%252C+Exuma+025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Jan. 12, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
102:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Black Point—I sound like a broken record<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 13-17K <i>Seas:</i> 1 ft. chop<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly cloudy but frequent sunny periods<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ynYaAap3GOYTz9Q5IzuYFFN76HF90w0BfMulvw-ShnENDzxJLm4_wF8KNz07L2D4VMamuc60BO3J2YQtOjLNT0BtWOxheOdWSRN23OrjTgGJLkjz5_O2se_7K0FZzs0Pgn8MB6R1Oan-/s1600/Black+Point++001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ynYaAap3GOYTz9Q5IzuYFFN76HF90w0BfMulvw-ShnENDzxJLm4_wF8KNz07L2D4VMamuc60BO3J2YQtOjLNT0BtWOxheOdWSRN23OrjTgGJLkjz5_O2se_7K0FZzs0Pgn8MB6R1Oan-/s320/Black+Point++001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wow, another morning with
good SSB reception & with news of improving, moderating trade winds. There was a possibility of leaving tomorrow
but most likely Mon. The propane tank in
use since Nov. 23 ran empty at breakfast.
We topped up the boat water tank with 1-1/4 jerry cans, washing the
cockpit floor with some fresh water, then to shore to refill the jerry
cans. I purchased a raisin cinnamon
bread, checked on a friend that required some medical attention at the
Government Clinic, while Graeme added gas to the dinghy fuel tank, all in
preparation of a departure soon. Then
the rest of the day was just relaxing & reading; one would have thought it
was Sunday. The mailboat returning to
Nassau arrived near 1300 hrs. loading a car, empty propane tanks etc. A Skipper’s Meeting was held at Lorraine’s to
discuss our probable departure on Mon., slowly hop scotching down the chain to
set ourselves up for the best day to go out into the Sound. We saw less moderation of the winds although
on Thurs. on Wind Alert than seen yesterday & this am. Graeme & I watched a fabulous quarter
final NFL game between Denver & Baltimore; Baltimore, the underdogs, won in
the 2<sup>nd </sup>quarter of OT on a hail mary pass. We dinghied home on a high tide on another
dark night but stars galore above. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Jan. 13, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
103:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Black Point<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> fresh E to ENE 10-15K during the day & NE
at night <i>Seas:</i> 1 ft. chop<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mainly sunny especially in the am with a few
cloudy periods in the pm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPx1gkh5lsIQb2d2UrdRX4dPq4aPTQ8DUAnrt3ZXn30OCYsxhVRbAADokA7-jbhriFnkhgTuqC-xGUg9rRHCzjLxdGvT62Y5IDQmMAdPRJhE5NBTJEBJF4zGJL0Yq6GOoDQojswIifpMR-/s1600/Black+Point++004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPx1gkh5lsIQb2d2UrdRX4dPq4aPTQ8DUAnrt3ZXn30OCYsxhVRbAADokA7-jbhriFnkhgTuqC-xGUg9rRHCzjLxdGvT62Y5IDQmMAdPRJhE5NBTJEBJF4zGJL0Yq6GOoDQojswIifpMR-/s320/Black+Point++004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">No weather report this am
as Blue Yonder’s source unavailable.
This was truly a Sunday, a day of rest; the only cleaning was that of
the head. I had a near 2 hr. walk out
Kings Highway, past sections of corn gardens, to the beach on the Sound side,
then onto Little Harbour on the Bank side.
On the Sound beach, 4-5 ft. white crested waves were crashing against
rocks & shore; I combed the beach for sea glass, shells or beans but
none. There was only 1 sailboat & 1
trawler in Little Harbour; waters were very tranquil, no chop, powdery white
sand & a boarded up windows on a building overlooking this harbour with a
sign saying O’Briens Landing. When I
returned to the boat lots of boats had departed. After lunch I laid on the deck reading while
Graeme went to Lorraine’s to watch the 1<sup>st</sup> of today’s quarter final
NFL games between Atlanta & Seattle; at half time he picked me up. There were lots of people taking in
Lorraine’s buffet supper ($15.00) + 2<sup>nd</sup> playoff game between New
England & Houston. I will surely
miss this tomorrow. Another dark night
dinghing home, excellent conditions for star gazing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Jan. 14, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
104:</span></span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Black Point to White Point, south beach<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 1030 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1210 hrs. <i>Distance:</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 11-14K until nighttime, then 15+k <i>Seas:</i> minimal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly sunny & some clouds <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLFht6_N2o1wcugTdya-Cr025-14DeLloYBtofOukd-jsBoe9Wuo-m65VQrru8YZkf_6bjaFvDb82GbUqRJZQL4eg0xYh4vlt8fktcH4gpaytb64HzvEbYBx0ox-lZIeJlG7oDVGjXd1OY/s1600/White+Point+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLFht6_N2o1wcugTdya-Cr025-14DeLloYBtofOukd-jsBoe9Wuo-m65VQrru8YZkf_6bjaFvDb82GbUqRJZQL4eg0xYh4vlt8fktcH4gpaytb64HzvEbYBx0ox-lZIeJlG7oDVGjXd1OY/s320/White+Point+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">SSB was good, except when
a rude, ?? person was transmitting /downloading data, whatever on the same
frequency on top of Chris; the winds are moderating over the coming days. I went ashore with Cherry & Doug, laundry
for them & to purchase more phone time minutes, but the office only open
Tues. & Thurs. So I skyped Mom
instead with a great connection, emails & charged my laptop. Jack & Donna did laundry & land showers
($4.00 X 8 mins.). Many, many boats left
yesterday but especially today & a new batch were arriving; good for the
community. I actually remembered how to
up anchor. Farewell Black Point! It was a good motor sail with the jenny only
at 5.5K; I suggested to continue sailing for a while before anchoring at White
Point. The anchor was set in sand, 11
ft. of water & 80 ft. of chain. Then
it was time to explore the white, sandy beach shoreline that has been so
alluring in the past; the approach was ripply sand then grass to water’s edge
that looked like a sopping wet shag rug on the falling tide; both semisoft
& powdery white sand with 2 distinct rows of tons of tiny shells. We discovered a huge falcon’s nest & a
resident falcon. A special sunset tonight;
a definite green flash! A red sky
followed, increased E winds. Lights from
Little Farmers Cay were visible. A dark
night, no moon & partly cloudy sky with stars seen occasionally. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Jan. 15, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
105:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> White Point (south beach) to Little Farmers
Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0945 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1110 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> approx. 6.5 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E 10-18K <i>Seas:</i>
minimal to 1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> partly sunny, some heavy dark clouds at times<b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The east trade winds
remained in the 15K range all through the night & decreased a few knots
after sunrise. Weather was received both
from SSB & Blue Yonder. Jack was
once again making bread before he departed; little did we know some was for
‘Moma Cal’ & us—can’t wait to try tomorrow morning! We rolled the jenny out & motor sailed on
a beam to close reach at 5.5-5.7K. Dark
threatening squall like clouds were in the vicinity of Little Farmers Cay; thankfully
they moved off to the west before we got there.
We anchored on the west side of the cay, in line with the Batelco tower
in 10 ft. water (at the time) & 80 ft. of chain, but with a current
effect. Once the dinghy was launched
& motor was lowered down & fastened in place, ‘Moma Cal’, ‘Kathrian’,
‘Sea Camp’ & ourselves went ashore.
After a walk about from the west shore over the hill passed St. Mary’s
Baptist Church (doors open for us to view—beautiful), along Little Harbour &
up over another hilly road passed Little Farmers Cay All Age School, the
Batelco Multipurpose Center & back to the starting point, we had lunch at Brenda’s
Place, as all the windows were still boarded closed at Ocean Cabin. After lunch we climbed up to Ocean Cabin now
that the windows were open, but there was a $10.00 fee for internet. Brenda & Tasha secretly told us that we could
get internet at the school. While the
others had a drink or 2, Jack & I walked to the school, acquired the
security key for internet access from the male teacher who asked us to share it
with other cruisers as he knew the importance of communicating with family
& the need for weather; how understanding is that! The children were just finishing school; they
stopped & very politely talked with us, answered out questions & let us
take their picture in their uniforms & new backpacks they had received for
Christmas; so precious! Oh, & Wind
Alert was predicting very favourable weather especially from Fri. through
Tues. We had to hurry back to the
dinghies because a large black rain cloud was quickly advancing in our
direction; it past mostly to the east in a northerly direction, so in the end we
only had a brief shower. It was now low
tide & the dinghies were high & dry.
Also the water depth where we were anchored was only 5’6”! A clouded sunset & calm, but the winds
increased once it was dark & the anchorage became a little bouncy. It was not as dark tonight, as a sliver of
moon was visible + stars in a partially clouded sky.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">FYI:<i> Little Farmers Cay was settled
165 years ago by freed slaves from Exuma.
It is 1-1/4 mi. long & 7/8 mi. wide.
The smaller bay is Little Harbour & the larger Big Harbour,</i> <i>separated</i> <i>by a piece of land called The Point.</i><b><span style="color: red;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
</span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-36297902825842777772013-01-03T13:06:00.000-08:002013-01-09T11:01:32.190-08:00Week 14: Jan 2-8, 2013 (Day 92-98)<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Week 14:</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Jan 2, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 92:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Staniel Cay to Black Point<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
0820 hrs<i>. Arrival:</i> 1020 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 9.59 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> light & inmeasureable direction <i>Seas:</i>
flat calm <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly sun & few clouds to brilliant wall
to wall sun all pm</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqFa5DgY1-keZqd2gQ7HAvSnzsUrO9UeGkQNEgdkproB46-Kix80IN4p0udFP6T5rCPLWP-uwhknK8_xZ4RjMfKqjqlwSrToPkV5rGgHVJCP3TuKZ4PiBsFeWx3CFhvgAtE3mLya9l3RX/s1600/Exumas+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqFa5DgY1-keZqd2gQ7HAvSnzsUrO9UeGkQNEgdkproB46-Kix80IN4p0udFP6T5rCPLWP-uwhknK8_xZ4RjMfKqjqlwSrToPkV5rGgHVJCP3TuKZ4PiBsFeWx3CFhvgAtE3mLya9l3RX/s320/Exumas+026.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Black Point</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDoaA7zIqduodjWVj9VeTVSAQAhNsN4UKECxl-2AUznhzRcMNvBecIO8XF_7v-gzcAHS9hDoZPSUSjQzmQAKWcarCz3nWA_rscycokll8wETTIxvF3JSLuCpEvEb7AhJOj7upxOEboYLqL/s1600/Black+Point%252C+Great+Guana+Cay%252C+Exuma+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDoaA7zIqduodjWVj9VeTVSAQAhNsN4UKECxl-2AUznhzRcMNvBecIO8XF_7v-gzcAHS9hDoZPSUSjQzmQAKWcarCz3nWA_rscycokll8wETTIxvF3JSLuCpEvEb7AhJOj7upxOEboYLqL/s320/Black+Point%252C+Great+Guana+Cay%252C+Exuma+030.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It became flat calm during the night & the
surroundings appeared like there was a light fog when the sun rose. Good reception & good weather forecast by
Chris on SSB X 1 week here in the central & SE Bahamas, whereas another
cold front was to move to the Abacos on the weekend; we got weather from ‘Blue
Yonder’ as well. It was so calm that we
could see the sandy bottom, full chain length & anchor; it came up with
ease. With less than 3K of wind it was a
motor ride X 2 hrs. & so calm we could clearly see the rippled sandy seas
floor, few tufts of grass now & again & starfish the entire way. I called Mom when we were near the south end
of Staniel Cay, in full view of the Batelco tower but the reception was good
sometimes & times when I could not hear anything at all. We anchored in the bay NE of the docks in
10-11 ft. of water & 100 ft. of chain.
At noon with laundry all sorted & organized, we dinghied to Rockside
Laundromat ( 0900-2000 hrs.), the best, cleanest & most efficient laundromat
in most of the coastal USA & all of the Bahamas; they have their own &
appeared to be new dock with concrete steps right to the building. It was high tide which made landing &
unloading much easier. I used 3 washers
& 2 dryers ($3.50 per load X 5 loads= $17.50). While the laundry was running it’s courses, I
downloaded pictures from my camera, caught up on writing yesterday’s blog &
afterwards discovered with much surprise that I had internet & a good
connection at that. It was kind of a
waste of a most gorgeous day to be doing laundry but you don’t waste
opportunities like this. After laundry
was stored away it was back to shore to walk, see if there were any changes as
we walked along the main street (Stella).
We did a walk through Adderley’s Friendly Store (opened till 2000hrs.)
& found out that the mailboat normally comes on Wed. but because of the
holidays this week there was a run on Fri.
We had an early supper at De Shamon’s (Dennis & Diane); a most
delicious pizza—ate half & rest home of another meal. No-see-ums & mosquitoes were annoying because
it was dead calm. Tonight there were
several boats anchored in the large anchorage.
The water was like glass, the night was so tranquil, the sky clear&
filled with the magnificent stars of the milky way & a late moon rose. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Jan. 3, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
93:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkmuzNJLJ2W8zWBagQ4PkMfhTI7QYLz0bRI0nk1Z3Ds35gbKgYJMy6xn3czA4gwUzvfFDqMdRAE6ZmYqC5rmSg5WRC5Te8wxMzYhScnjiLkK5yZZPAFGQgpaxpgffzwJt3jlZKiOfi68Qb/s1600/Exumas+032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkmuzNJLJ2W8zWBagQ4PkMfhTI7QYLz0bRI0nk1Z3Ds35gbKgYJMy6xn3czA4gwUzvfFDqMdRAE6ZmYqC5rmSg5WRC5Te8wxMzYhScnjiLkK5yZZPAFGQgpaxpgffzwJt3jlZKiOfi68Qb/s320/Exumas+032.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Lorraine's Cafe</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Black Point<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E, about 10K <i> Seas:</i> < 1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy with a few scattered very light rain
showers in the am & by noonish sunshine & blue skies<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpmToTqZUNulXRQ0mui-_Lnd8P_egOMoXBKVXDyy9F9O-ZkAPxdxvyBufHGrz1I-6LxgCCuCU7wGhm833Qb9dFrdP6vxeQu7fnfKlSr1oVZHBwqSBxsxPV8Xo68r9tpJom1H2i00S3uVi/s1600/Exumas+033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpmToTqZUNulXRQ0mui-_Lnd8P_egOMoXBKVXDyy9F9O-ZkAPxdxvyBufHGrz1I-6LxgCCuCU7wGhm833Qb9dFrdP6vxeQu7fnfKlSr1oVZHBwqSBxsxPV8Xo68r9tpJom1H2i00S3uVi/s320/Exumas+033.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Happy Hour at Scorpios</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A dull start to the
day. A good reception of weather on SSB;
Abacos predicted to get a cold front on the weekend, but not much in Central
& SE Bahamas; a lot of easterly or variations of in the forecast & I
felt this would be a great opportunity to sail to Little San Salvador, Cat
Island & Conception Island, part of the Out Islands. On the VHF we learnt that ‘Glory Days’ was in
tow with ‘Amazing Grace’ in favourable weather across the Gulf Stream 7 the
Straits of Florida with the ultimate destination as Fort Pierce. It was a morning of serious housecleaning of
the head & shower, the main salon floor + the mats & carpeting, then
blog writing. Graeme cleaned some of the
grim on the dinghy pontoons. There was a
constant trickle of boats moving south, some anchoring in Black Point. High tide was at 1132 hrs. so at 1100 hrs. we
started dinghying to shore to refill our empty water jerry cans. The job entailed bringing the 3 empty cans to
shore, pulling the dinghy onshore, walking up the new stairs & across the
street to the water spigot, hauling the cans back across the street, down the
stairs, into the dinghy, refloating the dinghy & hauling the jerry cans
onto the boat & empty in one of the two boat tanks X 3 trips (total of
2-1/2 hrs.). The prize was lunch at
Lorriane’s Café, buying a loaf of cinnamon raisin bread from Lorraine’s Mom
& good internet. Following all of
this a large number of cruisers attended Happy Hour at Scorpios (Tues. Thurs.
& Fri. 1600-1800 hrs.) with $3.00 beer, $2.00 wine, $5.00 liquor & 2
for 1 rum punches, free popcorn & complimentary conch fritters, oh I almost
forgot, free mosquitoes. We dinghied
home in the dark at rising low tide with our appropriate lights. I did not see sunset tonight or the setted
sky afterwards. But the view from our
dinghy across the harbour was spectacular with a massive number of mast lights
& more magnificent was the sky above & the indescribable beauty of the
stars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Jan. 4, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 94:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Black Point to Hetty’s Land, Great Guana Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0950 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1130 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 7.73 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> ESE to SE 10-12K <i>Seas:</i>
<1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny, blue skies & few clouds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We received weather on
SSB; most with good reception & a little scratchy at the time of our
specific location; some heavy winds forecasted Mon. afternoon through to
Thurs. Out Islands were a not for
now. Our plan was then to move for 1-2
days only short distances to see new locales, then likely come back to Black
Point for the southerly wind blow. At
least for those 3-1/2 days we can get to land with all amenities at hand. We heard Exuma Park at 0900 hrs. giving
mooring ball assignments to ‘Moma Cal’ & ‘Kathrian’ & also ‘Ambition’
called with their departure. We were
unable to hail anyone of these boats until later in the day when ‘Ambition’ had
moved onto Staniel Cay. We motorsailed
closehauled with the jenny at 5.5-5.7K
in a 10-12K ESE to SE wind & stood enough offshore to avoid an area
of shallow coral heads & rocky bars as we slid down the western shore of
Great Guana Cay passed Little Bay, Jack’s Cove & Bay, White Point into
Hetty’s Land. We dropped anchor in 11-12
ft. water & 100 ft. chain. Some
reading in the sun on the deck after lunch, then snorkeling over a coral head
with ‘Fair Winds’, ‘Truansea’ & ‘Southern Bound’. The guys were lucky in catching a couple of
lobsters, crab, bar jack & lionfish. The coral head was not particularly
colourful, but a lot of similar small fish & I forgot my underwater camera! The anchorage was a little bouncy than what
we expected from an east wind. A cloud
obscured the sun just at sunset but a lovely red sky followed & a dark
night with some stars, some cloud & a late rising moon & only the mast
lights of our 4 boats.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Jan. 5, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 95:</span>
<span style="color: #0070c0;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Hetty’s Land to Jack’s Bay Cove, Great Guana
Cay then Black Point<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 1040 hrs. <i> Arrival: </i> 1130 & 1520 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> approx. 8 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> ESE to SE 10-16K, increased after sunset <i>Seas:</i> 1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly cloudy with sunny periods & plenty
of blue sky in am; more sun in pm; H=82F & L=66F<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPjo3OTm-XpeFdwF-YGOcoKm0eYkrr7KlOcOGJyMg1tDiqfRvvIy1wWDfA62YA3QAe2Qz1eSyjwpKDjAnnBBUV_lw_Kg7OrnCE87fC1o_e3XDQyHeFRkfjoWqSYBip6PKyu65dWN8jAcKJ/s1600/Black+Point%252C+Great+Guana+Cay%252C+Exuma+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPjo3OTm-XpeFdwF-YGOcoKm0eYkrr7KlOcOGJyMg1tDiqfRvvIy1wWDfA62YA3QAe2Qz1eSyjwpKDjAnnBBUV_lw_Kg7OrnCE87fC1o_e3XDQyHeFRkfjoWqSYBip6PKyu65dWN8jAcKJ/s320/Black+Point%252C+Great+Guana+Cay%252C+Exuma+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Exuma Sound side of Hetty's Land</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivWYOQsZSFqWra-SRUP-PLnd61uQx9dwh5VTDsPFiemAeQkj3RtQ2i9yRqJG8laj929FaCNWuxsgsaZ11tyoGbT-wl2oiiIYVI9nc2L-3HreEe5dpbOT0kFmKboRnYE9-bqhOh786mYPAt/s1600/Black+Point,+Great+Guana+Cay,+Exuma+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivWYOQsZSFqWra-SRUP-PLnd61uQx9dwh5VTDsPFiemAeQkj3RtQ2i9yRqJG8laj929FaCNWuxsgsaZ11tyoGbT-wl2oiiIYVI9nc2L-3HreEe5dpbOT0kFmKboRnYE9-bqhOh786mYPAt/s320/Black+Point,+Great+Guana+Cay,+Exuma+013.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Shawn & his lobster</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A slightly bouncy night,
but nothing serious or uncomfortable around.
The usual morning routine, beginning with listening to SSB weather, then
breakfast. The SE winds were to pick up
this aft, lay down tomorrow, then pipe up Mon. pm through Thurs., especially
Tues. & Wed. (SE 20-30K). I went to
the beach with ‘Truansea’ for a couple of hours. There were tons of live & dead sand
dollars waiting to be gathered (low tide).
The group of us took a path marked with old nets, styrofoam float balls
etc. from the beach to the east shore of Great Guana Cay being the Atlantic or
Exuma Sound; there was a huge limestone rock formation, a small cave &
debris+++ including a possible plane wreck.
Once back at the boat, some people went snorkeling & fishing. We up anchored & motorsailed a few miles
north on a broad reach with our jenny (5.7K) to Jack’s Bay Cove; shy to venture
closer to the north side of White Point.
We hailed ‘Moma Cal’ making contact, but barely; in Warderick Wells
today. A few hours we spent on the deck
reading until around 1400 hrs. when we saw a fleet of 4 boats northbound &
looking as if they were heading to Black Point, our intended destination
tomorrow or definitely Mon. afternoon; apparently Hetty’s Land got quite
rolly. We decided to take the
opportunity to sail & get a good spot in Black Point now. So it was another good sail, beam reach at
5.8-6.2K. Soon we were anchored to the
NE of the government docks in 12 ft. & 120 ft. of chain. Another successful day of fishing for
‘Truansea’, ‘Fair Winds’ & ‘Southern Bound’, so a potluck dinner party was
organized on ‘Eleohn’ (50 ft. trawler), where the wealth was shared, featuring
lobster, crab, another whitefish, meatballs, white rice, rice salad, cabbage
salad & homemade dinner rolls. Scrumptious & a good time was had by
all! And a big thank you to all for
including us old foggies! It was a slow
dinghy ride home against a moderate ESE wind under a dark night sky filled with
amazing stars+++.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Jan. 6,
2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 96:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Black Point<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> E to ESE 12-18K <i>Seas:</i>
1 ft. or less<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> warm, both sun & cloud<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17Wm7w_8mJCQlc8DzcixMUAttwlB5J5Dc5CjSMMFFszA8OTh3o4xiRL99cWbt4eKy2CvhHdXo2G1CKIXLA4yv11aR-yg12m332Lv6-HNWg4I-35MPscB8p6lJbgKACGNZtytiUwwPsdQf/s1600/Exumas+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17Wm7w_8mJCQlc8DzcixMUAttwlB5J5Dc5CjSMMFFszA8OTh3o4xiRL99cWbt4eKy2CvhHdXo2G1CKIXLA4yv11aR-yg12m332Lv6-HNWg4I-35MPscB8p6lJbgKACGNZtytiUwwPsdQf/s320/Exumas+028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The east & southerly
winds continued to increase from last evening through the night & were
gusting this morning, creating whitecapped chop. We spoke with Jack on the VHF but even on
channel 68 the reception was less than good.
‘Kathrian’ & ‘Moma Cal’ must have changed their plans, as later in
the day we talked to them again & they had made their way to Big Majors,
Staniel Cay & were going off in the dinghy to see the pigs. The housecleaning task this morning was
washing the cockpit cushions, cockpit & transom with soap & water. About 1100 hrs. we picked Candy & Shawn
(Southern Bound) up to go to shore as they were out of fuel for their dinghy;
walks for Graeme & I but mine more intense.
I found the beach; the 4-6 ft. seas were rolling in quite strongly; it
was low tide & I found a small heart bean & a hamburger bean, but no
good sea glass. Church services were in
progress at 1100 hr., shops etc. were closed & one could hear singing
through the open windows. Lorraine’s
Café opened at 1600 hrs. & were offering a buffet dinner by reservation
this evening. After lunch it was reading
on the deck for me for a short period of time, then polishing the stainless,
followed by more reading till sunset.
Later this evening I finished my current book titled “Artist on His
Island” by Randolph Johnston, father of Pete of “Pete’s Pub” in Little Harbour,
Great Abaco, lent to me by Josh from NSC, a friend of Peter Kitching. The harbour has filled with even more boats this
evening with only a few that left today.
I thought we would have the perfect sunset to observe a green flash, but
evening & Lynn was discharged from
hospital late Fri. According to Larry,
Dorothy & Glenn are in Great Harbour, Berry Island & Bill & Betty
are off to Marathon, Florida in a day or so.
We will need to check emails tomorrow to see where Terri & Bill
are. Another dark night because the moon
rose so late & with the clear sky the stars were abundant & brilliant
as are all the boats’ anchor lights.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Jan. 7, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 97: <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Black Point, but just changed location closer
to shore<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">E to ESE 10 during day & 10-12K in evening <i> Seas:</i> calm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">mostly sunny with a some cloudy periods, very pleasant
temps (80’sF)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwi1oI0ixOfsRfRzVoJ8lgdqFoX53Ngqw16o46Mr7TzlQx4F5shQu9sYsB-2q9KbbgaGw6LcnbM4J8I5zBcoPtqgip2kkzcUovfSjKpr6DMdQVS4H5AYJpcZxeCHDxmKd_jlgOXQ8SQ8O4/s1600/Black+Point,+Great+Guana+Cay,+Exuma+023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwi1oI0ixOfsRfRzVoJ8lgdqFoX53Ngqw16o46Mr7TzlQx4F5shQu9sYsB-2q9KbbgaGw6LcnbM4J8I5zBcoPtqgip2kkzcUovfSjKpr6DMdQVS4H5AYJpcZxeCHDxmKd_jlgOXQ8SQ8O4/s320/Black+Point,+Great+Guana+Cay,+Exuma+023.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Typically, we began the
day with the weather forecast on SSB at 0630 hrs. (very good reception) &
again with ‘Blue Yonder’ at 0800 hrs. during breakfast. June is a wealth of knowledge; she still
bothering him after a week. It was to
shore mid morning, meeting up with Christine & Mark & their sons, Logan
& Cole & paying a visit to the school that had just reconvened
today. Miss Young met us, answered our
many questions, allowed me to take a photo of her with some of the more senior
students. School hours= 0845-1500 hrs.
All students wear a green tunic for girls & green shorts of pants for boys &
yellow shits & both wear a green tie & shoes & socks; so cool! Arrangements were made whereby tomorrow Christine
will assist the 1 teacher for grades 4, 5 & 6 with English & Math, Mark
will probably assist the 1 teacher for grades 1, 2 & 3 with science &
the boys will join in grades 5 & 4.
Then all of us took a long hike along Kings Highway to the castle on
Little Bay; residents in house. On our
dinghy ride back, we paid ‘Audacious’ a short visit & ‘Fair Winds’. Ken & Shawn dinghied all the way to Staniel
Cay for gas. Over the lunch hour we
watched a catamaran get ready to depart, then we relocated to that spot; 9 ft.
water & 120 ft. chain. Internet on
shore at De Shamoon till 1700 hrs. Mailboat with supplies do to arrive on Wed.
or Thurs. A gorgeous setting sun, then
clouds blanketed the sunset. A pinky
orange sky followed towards the west & dark rain like clouds to the WNW
& E. Stars were quite visible in the
very dark night sky.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Jan. 8, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 98:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Black Point (24oN 76oW)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> more SE than E 10-15K with gusts to 20K <i>Seas: </i>1 ft. with whitecaps at times<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> partly sunny & cloudy in am, heavy cloud
over the noon hour with a small rain shower & slight clearing at sunset<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">SSB at 0630 hrs.,
breakfast</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">& ‘Blue Yonder’ at 0800
hrs.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We eavesdropped on VHF & heard
the chatter between ‘Moma Cal’ & ‘Kathrian’, so we knew after fuelling up
they were on there way here.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">I actually
did some isometric exercises this am on top of my usual stretches & back
exercises.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Off to shore & got Graeme
on the internet at Lorraine’s while I took a walking task to locate Sandra
(pink house on west side of road with blue jeep in front) that has a vegetable she
was in Nassau.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Will mailboat arrive
tomorrow or Thurs.?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As soon as I
returned, bought some bread from Lorraine’s mom & sat down to do my
internet (hopefully add pics to my blog), the skies darkened +++.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We hurriedly dinghied backed home & low
& behold ‘Moma Cal’ was anchored beside us & ‘Kathrian’ was
approaching.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The much needed rain shower
was only short lived.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A reunion was held
on ‘Moma Cal’ until 1600 hrs.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">&
continued at the Happy Hour at Scorpios, followed by a pizza supper at De
Shamon; Simon recognized Doug from a year ago having to supply the bar with
Mount Gay Rum at Super Bowl as they had run out.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">It had been 4+ mons. since we had seen Cherry
& Doug.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Home in our dinghies on a
falling tide at about 2000 hrs. on a very dark night with the skies filled with
amazing stars & the anchorage ablaze with anchor lights.</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span>Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-18429627323644049112013-01-03T12:59:00.001-08:002013-04-23T05:09:04.978-07:00Week 13: Dec. 26, 2012- Jan. 1, 2013 (Day 85-91)<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Week 13: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wed. Dec. 26, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 85:</span><span style="color: red;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Warderick Wells<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> S 5-10K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> glorious, warm sunny with
scattered clouds, H= 82F, L=70F<b><span style="color: red;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0UMhRySHoa36gBzlNqrnjs_WEV3XPgIpr_Fw7yXOtCUXJQSlE5_E-XdU9saDSXB7WQswi2-4KjCQhyphenhyphenciUIMnqc3xuO_uu2c1jiyvzAF4u1eFMuIn2fVIGGJ58AG6AIdXpV-Yk5GQU72fD/s1600/Miami%252C+Florida+%2526+Exumas+085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0UMhRySHoa36gBzlNqrnjs_WEV3XPgIpr_Fw7yXOtCUXJQSlE5_E-XdU9saDSXB7WQswi2-4KjCQhyphenhyphenciUIMnqc3xuO_uu2c1jiyvzAF4u1eFMuIn2fVIGGJ58AG6AIdXpV-Yk5GQU72fD/s320/Miami%252C+Florida+%2526+Exumas+085.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Location of Christmas Feast--Warden's House</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhiQbUcn78AU9t2YVtPv0_vV592I1O1t5bjrniJ-tIAmh1WJBCQdN-a0egT9IpSEsWz_Qgtq8pjMpgcbBmqu-v9bNu6VbWaC-Bfx4ut4f-RWmPytO9KDdlIgnMz6pUj-sO6Y2Dqfgg_L5/s1600/Miami%252C+Florida+%2526+Exumas+079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhiQbUcn78AU9t2YVtPv0_vV592I1O1t5bjrniJ-tIAmh1WJBCQdN-a0egT9IpSEsWz_Qgtq8pjMpgcbBmqu-v9bNu6VbWaC-Bfx4ut4f-RWmPytO9KDdlIgnMz6pUj-sO6Y2Dqfgg_L5/s320/Miami%252C+Florida+%2526+Exumas+079.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We rose this
morn for some weather report on SSB 4045 at 0630hrs. but Ed was not loud enough
to understand; no other reports heard.
There was a large exodus of boats to mostly places close by from here to
Staniel Cay. The enclosure windows were
washed from the saltiness from the salt just in the air & wind. We dinghied to the office to pay Jen for
today’s stay. Also for our internet
problems she gave us a new username & password free of charge for “ECLSP”;
we sat outside the office & caught up on emails (50+), then we dinghied
over to The Rangers Garden, between the headquarters & Narrow Water
Cay. After lunch we dinghied to a
sandbar exposed at low tide just slightly west of our mooring location, to the
dock by Fuel Cay (apparently some good snorkeling there), then to Emerald Rock,
the many sand beaches & trails on Warderick Wells, passed Emerald Rock
(South) mooring field & anchorage to Beryl’s Beach. On our way home later in the afternoon we
stopped in at ‘Truansea’ & made tentative plans for departure & our
destination including options for the next few days; I guess exploring
Hawksbill Cay has to wait again. We were
all aiming to be in Staniel Cay Fri. or Sat. till New Years & the
celebrations & because a cold front is approaching Sunday afternoon. I had internet for good while again this
evening. A most lovely sunset with red
rays radiating out like the spokes on a bike.
As the night progressed, a light cloud cover moved in, although the near
full moon was still visible. It remained
very warm & muggy; in fact when I stepped out into the cockpit it was like
stepping into dense fog, but it was the enclosure windows that were so heavily
laden with moisture. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thurs. Dec. 27, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 86:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Warderick Wells to Cambridge Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> 1120 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1355 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 13.81 NM (chart)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> NW to N <5K
<i>Seas:</i> clam, no chop, flat to ripples<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> not really nice looking</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> heavy grey clouds especially to the S & SW, few sprinkles of
rain now & then<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7IK7Qyr93O71BH4Wj-fBuQFAa6YrcuRXrQ3rad_-aozk3Xh7-7SByPbDjotBI5c7mjKjPaInA8K4gLYIgO0iv_pN7rAP2k02nIgx_tR6bnBgWAnLH7Gw32V3gwGrYOAyQm9qLpaCCfv-v/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7IK7Qyr93O71BH4Wj-fBuQFAa6YrcuRXrQ3rad_-aozk3Xh7-7SByPbDjotBI5c7mjKjPaInA8K4gLYIgO0iv_pN7rAP2k02nIgx_tR6bnBgWAnLH7Gw32V3gwGrYOAyQm9qLpaCCfv-v/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+087.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Sunset at Cambridge Cay</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WxMdxJh9S2ruJIqtOwftQwJptUnmr5NOQX3124T06YfdJgDbYy1xXKXTHFjBZtzc6p3gtb7uZ2_oTAJ7dmw1g1kQshIVoKhS0jPtzrwYF6eMZTAG8K5L9nHjPR-efVqyUUkNnHfx4GzQ/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WxMdxJh9S2ruJIqtOwftQwJptUnmr5NOQX3124T06YfdJgDbYy1xXKXTHFjBZtzc6p3gtb7uZ2_oTAJ7dmw1g1kQshIVoKhS0jPtzrwYF6eMZTAG8K5L9nHjPR-efVqyUUkNnHfx4GzQ/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+089.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">The Gang</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There was a
light rain shower just enough to have to close the hatches & ports at 0600
hrs.; it was welcomed “to clean the decks”.
And it was time to get up anyways to see if we could hear any weather
reports. SSB was too scratchy; later
Christine (‘Turansea’) gave us what she heard.
I still had internet so was able to send an email I forgot to send last
night & was able to connect to Wind Alert & get the weather, wind &
sea report for the next 7 days; despite the appearance of the sky this am, the
wind report was O.K. but a front was expected to approach later Sun. through to
Tues. ‘Truansea’ & ourselves planned
to travel together till Staniel Cay. Our
0800 hrs. departure was postponed till the sporadic rains & threatening
clouds passed. We finally said our
goodbyes & thanks at 1120 hrs.; check out time was 1200 hrs. Quite a number of boats seen out on the
horizon moving both north & south; seems a lot of boats heading to Staniel
Cay now & over the next 1-2 days. But
it was a motorboat ride with barely a ripple on the water. Even without sun it was possible to see
bottom 20 ft. below. Our 1<sup>st</sup>
thought was to go somewhere about Pipe Creek but being ultra conservative
cautious because of the questionable approach with very shallow water
especially coming into low tide, the decision was to go to Cambridge Cay. Upon our arrival there were 3 other boats;
later a catamaran picked up a mooring ball.
We dropped our dinghies.
‘Truansea’ snorkeled the Coral Gardens (saw a sea turtle), airplane
wreck, & even the caves at Dundas Rock.
We went across Conch Cut, across the west & south shore of Compass
Cay trying to make sense of the marked passage to the marina (nicely protected
hole), then around to the area accessed best from Joe Cay Cut. Of course the water was so flat, even the
Atlantic by the look of things, all the Exuma Cuts were probably easy
passages. The skies were clearing. Mark & Christine & the boys invited us
for a pizza supper; Christine made the base crust & spread the pizza sauce
on each, then we all added our own toppings & then they were baked in the
BBQ</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> yum, yum!
We played 3 hands of cards (Go Fish).
A lovely sunset, humid & much condensation on everything. The water surface was like glass. A bright moon light the clear night sky; and
for that reason the abundance of stars were not as noticeable, but they were
certainly there. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Fri. Dec. 28, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 87:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Cambridge Cay to Staniel Cay, Big Majors Anchorage by Pigs Beach<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> 0820 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1145 hrs. <i>Distance:</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> E 10K+ or - & S 10K at
night <i> Seas:
</i> nothing to speak of<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> superb, magnificent sun,
blue sky, scattering of clouds & aqua water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjnl8z7MSCvZi-VewpXu6Ls_KQuTXCdzPm7Qyd4DFURJSgYMiVPIvrlDAq6tzIZ-uezUAzx8KeO2igWnj_6uuYpY5C23VkzAbNa8IQMGrcMO_54jceiJI7L45g_Bca2fH9e0L2Dg2eF-LM/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjnl8z7MSCvZi-VewpXu6Ls_KQuTXCdzPm7Qyd4DFURJSgYMiVPIvrlDAq6tzIZ-uezUAzx8KeO2igWnj_6uuYpY5C23VkzAbNa8IQMGrcMO_54jceiJI7L45g_Bca2fH9e0L2Dg2eF-LM/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+091.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Ray & Nurse Sharks</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A most calm
& peaceful night. No SSB reception
this am. We pulled the dinghy & engine
up & departed to the Exuma Banks, while ‘Truansea’ exited Conch Cut into
Exuma Sound. We both sailed close hauled
at about 5.4K & arrived at our destination at about the same time. I didn’t see much of the trip as I was down
below charging phones & on the inverter charging my netbook, toothbrush,
camera battery & finally I got my Microsoft Word program working so I could
write the last 2 days’ events of my journal.
‘Truansea’ went to Staniel Cay Yacht Club & filled with water &
fuel & relayed back to us that there were 4 boats anchored at the Grotto,
so Graeme went directly to Big Majors Anchorage off of Pigs Beach & we
anchored in 10 ft. of water with 80 ft. of chain; lots of boats in this
anchorage as we suspected. We launched
the dinghy & engine; Graeme filled the boat’s front water tank with water
from 3 jerry cans & switched to the rear water tank just ‘cause + emptied 1
diesel jerry can in the boat tank, while I lazily laid on the deck
reading. Sometime after 1600 hrs. we
dinghied all the way around to SCYC for a drink, watched the nurse sharks &
rays feeding on the remains of the cleaning of lobsters & took into
watching the golf tournament on the beach (all part of Christmas Week
activities), meeting up with some people we met at Warderick Wells. Just as the sun was about to set we started
dinghing back home, stopping to see if we would have a green flash at sunset, but no. The sky though harboured a red hue for the
longest time. It was slightly choppy at
anchor tonight. And officially it was
full moon tonight. Despite the number of
boats anchored with their anchor lights & Christmas lights, in conjunction
with the number of mega yachts, their lights + their underwater lighting, the
stars were glistening in a nearly clear sky. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Sat. Dec. 29, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 88:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Staniel Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> S 5K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> very warm, sunny, blue
skies & few clouds that at noon increased to thin cover that gave us welcomed
shelter from the hot sun while walking in town<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBrnQ9mU1sRBzy1oJKXW7swmqySxzyqiiiABNKqrYozMb7UgVS1IUpmUOwg6Z_zQsBmxXHFj0gX-hatid4DG-n75Pze48jFJWfNDBCF_pN7pGyhMGbOaELxQMPVcuKPustYfVDW1IqxkYo/s1600/Miami%252C+Florida+%2526+Exumas+097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBrnQ9mU1sRBzy1oJKXW7swmqySxzyqiiiABNKqrYozMb7UgVS1IUpmUOwg6Z_zQsBmxXHFj0gX-hatid4DG-n75Pze48jFJWfNDBCF_pN7pGyhMGbOaELxQMPVcuKPustYfVDW1IqxkYo/s320/Miami%252C+Florida+%2526+Exumas+097.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Staniel Yacht Club rental Cottages</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A goodly
breeze came up last evening & stayed with us throughout the night;
everything still felt damp but the breeze made it more doable. No SSB again this am, but Graeme discovered
that the fine tuning button was not doing much, so did some problem solving
& discovered the SSB button was not on & P9 also was not up on the
screen; we will check out the corrections in the am. The weather we received from June on ‘Blue
Yonder’ at Staniel Cay on VHF 16</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">12 at 0800 hrs. stated that the cold front
was still on course for late Sun. & Mon. with improving conditions on Tues.
& supposedly not as bad as 1<sup>st</sup> predicted; let’s hope! The Mailboat had arrived this morning (days
late apparently) with fresh fruits & vegetables & supplies. The Blue Wing Grocery store announced on VHF
that they would open until 1130 hrs.
Just as we were preparing to go ashore Gail & Eric (‘Viking’s
Dream’) kayaked up; we quickly learnt of their travels after separating at
Fraser’s Hog Cay. They recommended West
End on New Providence as a good anchorage.
We landed the dinghy on shore behind the man-made rock breakwater. A number of us walked to Blue Wing (still
pricing) & Pink Pearl (coconut bread $6.00, tomato, & green bananas,
total= $9.00) Grocery stores. Bread can
be ordered & purchased at the yellow house as you walk to these 2 grocery
stores & in front of the police station.
The group walked to Isles General Store (by the airstrip & bridge
over a creek) which had more of a selection of fresh fruits & vegetables
& an assortment of sliced bread & buns & steak ($4.50 each). We walked back looking to eat at a local spot
but they were closed on weekends, so Staniel Cay Yacht Club it was; food was
good but probably more expensive that the other joints. We ate & talked with Louiselle & Ken
w</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">ho
apparently we passed on the Cape Fear River before Southport. We also met Gail & Eric again & Phyllis
& Tom ( Krogan 42-Cocoon ll) who we met 2 years ago from Tofino, B.C. They said that Sampson Cay Marina may be
under different management & in any case the restaurant is closed & no
$2.00 Tuesdays last year; a pity. I did
purchase internet for $10.00 for a 24 hr. period but will have to use it on
land as I have poor reception in Big Majors anchorage. ‘Truansea’ dinghied back after their
snorkeling excursion with 2 lobster, 1 squirrel fish & 1 good size conch;
have a great feast guys! Clouds
accumulated in the west, so the sunset was obscured but the sky afterwards was
quite red. A couple of people in the
anchorage blew their conch horns at sunset, a Bahamian custom, of cruisers at
least. The thought was to return to
shore for the Pirates Party at 1900 hrs. at SCYC but we didn’t like the thought
of dinghing all that distance back home in the dark. A calm evening & the night sky was filled
with a full moon, stars & some cloud.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Sun. Dec. 30, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 89:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Staniel Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> SW</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">NW</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">N & NE suddenly & quickly 17-20K +
gusts <i>Seas:</i> 1 ft. chop<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> cloudy but by mid am blue
skies & sun<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXYzTcw-WH2vBBxyzyGxbMgvXV28SXbACOb_99lX7inXeviHbWTmmEFqr7jsPsg7otfqdcGf6qOSjreqL8JH_hDt5JaW0NXZq510YjUvJiX2THhKLccxEUAZ-SV6zzxUXYAu0z2PvSOA79/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXYzTcw-WH2vBBxyzyGxbMgvXV28SXbACOb_99lX7inXeviHbWTmmEFqr7jsPsg7otfqdcGf6qOSjreqL8JH_hDt5JaW0NXZq510YjUvJiX2THhKLccxEUAZ-SV6zzxUXYAu0z2PvSOA79/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+101.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Bougainvilla</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A little
rolly before dawn as the wind direction changed to the west. Suddenly at 0730 hrs. the winds quickly
clocked to NW to N & slightly NNE in the afternoon & just as quickly
increased in speed; this was a quick moving cold front according to the weather
report from ‘Blue Yonder’ but it seemed that it had arrived earlier than
predicted. The northern winds of the
cold front kicked up whitecaps on the crests of the chop for the rest of the
morning & persisted all afternoon, evening & through the night. Some boats left & new ones arrived. The SCYC was holding its auction between
1500-1800 hrs. with free food, as long as it lasted, & free drinks to raise
money for the New Years festivities. We
had planned to attend but the long dinghy ride, especially coming back, would
have been very wet. Also in question was
the BBQ’ing of our steaks for tonight’s dinner; unfortunately too windy. So today was a day of reading on board,
watching the weather & the movement of boats at anchor. The setting sun was again blocked by clouds
followed by only a slight pink hue to the sky.
Moon, stars, some clouds & howling winds which always seem more eerie
at night filled the sky tonight. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mon. Dec. 31, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 90:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> Staniel
Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> E 18-23K, decreased to
12-15K but with gusts of 20-25K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> mostly sunny, some clouds
& fair light cloud cover a good part of the day, low humidity & almost
cool<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSsMgaIpIsnRm9Vfc6QtpG6_gsFb6ZsRATfpN1avxsVXpE7OP8SjWiClBsgga1DSnhQk75HSo5ayckCcm7h6Q1W2w-8jPMsNWwQrDa96T7-dMhJpGp4tSHN-1z7tqGI3thNiDknSE8SJt/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSsMgaIpIsnRm9Vfc6QtpG6_gsFb6ZsRATfpN1avxsVXpE7OP8SjWiClBsgga1DSnhQk75HSo5ayckCcm7h6Q1W2w-8jPMsNWwQrDa96T7-dMhJpGp4tSHN-1z7tqGI3thNiDknSE8SJt/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+109.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Tida Wave--Bahamian Sloop</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">New Years
Eve!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Despite the
howling winds, the clunking & tugging of the anchor & chain & the
slapping of water against the hull when the boat at a particular angle to the
chop, I slept, whereas Graeme seemed to be up all night sleeping &/or
reading. SSB was better this am but Ed’s
voice was still too low & no weather from ‘Blue Yonder’. For several days now we have been listening
to Exuma Park at 0900 hrs. to hear if ‘Moma Cal’ &/or ‘Kathrian’ were in
the vicinity. Mid morning the SCYC held
its annual Class ‘A’ Bahamian Sloop Race between Tida Wave & Lady Muriel,
where the skipper is local & crew is 8-10 cruisers per boat that signed
up. It was blowing 20-25K & on
making it’s 1<sup>st</sup> tack Lady Muriel litterly lost it’s crew overboard,
the boat heeled over & filled with water & sank. The crew was rescued but the boat will have
to wait some other time. In the meantime
we had headed for shore with foul weather gear on & a good thing; we were
doused pretty good on a number of occasions.
I sat backwards but Graeme was forwards as he was driving of
course. I activated my Exuma WiFi that I
had purchased; the 1<sup>st</sup> username & password did not work but the
2<sup>nd</sup> did. I worked away on
emails & found the location of ‘Moma Cal’ & ‘Kathrian’ in Nassau; they
were there because of the cold front & also to see the Junkanoo tomorrow,
then planned to move to Allans Cay to see the iguanas. Graeme thought he would watch some of the
race when he learnt of the sinking incident, so instead filled 2 empty diesel
jerry cans well I worked at emails. We
had a great hamburger (Graeme) & snapper (Laura) meal for lunch at the
Taste & Sea Café. We purchased
butter X 2 for Christine & ourselves + 2 of the smallest potatoes at Pink
Pearl. The dinghy ride home was
drier. A New Years Eve Happy Hour was
held on ‘Truansea’ + 3 other boats including ourselves </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">till 2000
hrs.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Graeme slept while I stayed awake
till 2300 hrs. reading until the eyes started slamming shut.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">I laid down & slept till shortly after
midnight then woke to see the last of the spectacular fireworks from SCYC.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">The night sky was incredible; moon, stars,
milky way.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tues. Jan 1, 2013—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 91:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Staniel Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> E 10-17K, some gusts <i>Seas:</i>
negligible<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> partly sunny & cloudy
in am but full sun by midday & very comfortable temp<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Happy New
Year! And much health, happiness &
prosperity to all relatives & friends!</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8feHN59fOvDpmx4RMbtlSMKANfVcmxBAgs27R4PhMu_hSd3LBGyY1OBEel8ik9SRGy072E8Vam3xxhJ6otumUH1IDbAx3y1k-9fFWoAhnMQRJcTxcmqWGwoZmx08k3vD-TLkqbPWEFek/s1600/Exumas+129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8feHN59fOvDpmx4RMbtlSMKANfVcmxBAgs27R4PhMu_hSd3LBGyY1OBEel8ik9SRGy072E8Vam3xxhJ6otumUH1IDbAx3y1k-9fFWoAhnMQRJcTxcmqWGwoZmx08k3vD-TLkqbPWEFek/s320/Exumas+129.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrpRRyLFj8eSFpg2M2K6oqUi9-WfDuzQ6psbCpqQzaweWyT7O4-pmDiUxfJP22g9oG3Qbeb437-U2-A5m5pl5mxvUHkyMPELmFPowECYqLcaGtp5PIrzl8LJJ6w9XussNQ9U36ehdb8nt-/s1600/Exumas+127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrpRRyLFj8eSFpg2M2K6oqUi9-WfDuzQ6psbCpqQzaweWyT7O4-pmDiUxfJP22g9oG3Qbeb437-U2-A5m5pl5mxvUHkyMPELmFPowECYqLcaGtp5PIrzl8LJJ6w9XussNQ9U36ehdb8nt-/s320/Exumas+127.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We knew we
were not moving today & we didn’t think Chris would be broadcasting, so we
slept in.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We listened to ‘Blue Yonder’
& her weather report, we watched a few boats leave & listened to
conversations on the VHF between some boats we knew who left; much more wind
than in the anchorage.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We dinghied to
shore (not so wet today) to do internet with the remaining 38 mins.; I worked
on a few emails & posted a few weeks of my blog, minus photos unfortunately.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Then we walked to the interior of the island
on some remote roads.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Meanwhile SCYC the
Cruising Regatta Race was soon to be under way; on Bahamian time—late.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">While having a beer after our walk &
before heading back home, Phyllis & Tom arrived with their friends, Evey
& Jack.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">It was on our dinghy ride
home that we learnt of the collision in the race between ‘Glory Days’, a
Canadian 50 ft. catamaran from Ottawa & Tida Wave, an ‘A’ Class Bahamian
sloop; the cat was t-boned & had a huge hole in the port pontoon.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Not exactly a great record the last 2 days
for racing.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Somehow the cat was brought
to Pig Beach & a rescue team, ‘Amazing Grace’ worked to pump out water in
the boat with divers or snorkelers & applied a plywood patch to the
hole.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">The boat was floated & rafted
to the rescue boat that anchored not far behind us for the night.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We dinghied to Pig Beach to take pics of the
pigs & like so many other dinghies observed the rescue operation on ‘Glory
Days’.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">You had to feel for the owners
& people aboard with so many onlookers.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">No one was hurt & we learnt the next day the outpouring of
generousity of other cruisers.; heart wrenching.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We said our welcomed Dave & Mary
(‘Morning Star’, a C&C 48) who were dock mates at the marina in Nassau
& happened to anchor beside us.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We
expressed our Happy New Year’s wishes to ‘Viking’s Dream’ as we dinghied to the
Happy Hour invite on Cocoon II & their guests.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">From the stern deck we all watched a near
perfect sunset, but no green flash & enjoyed an evening of comraderie; a
good time had by all.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">A very good way to
welcome the New Year.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">It was another
incredible night sky with moon, stars+++ & milky way. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-45786403714898456982013-01-01T07:37:00.005-08:002013-04-22T14:20:57.794-07:00Week 12: Dec. 19-25, 2012 (Day 78-84)<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Week 12:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wed. Dec. 19, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 78:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Nassau<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> W & light in am, NE
12K by evening<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> sunny, hot & blue
skies<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZqk_Hsm5YwkiaJK9kax4K6paLeM0DQ8n434an46CRh7HBooUQvaHKlrrgdUWIRkHUWPMNm3Ul6zEjp0UxzUPQZGnUu0fmXNBZtM-yModFBvIFARv5flq9z43dRSlovE6nNez4axpNVTA/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZqk_Hsm5YwkiaJK9kax4K6paLeM0DQ8n434an46CRh7HBooUQvaHKlrrgdUWIRkHUWPMNm3Ul6zEjp0UxzUPQZGnUu0fmXNBZtM-yModFBvIFARv5flq9z43dRSlovE6nNez4axpNVTA/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+024.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Bridge to Atlantis</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The visit to
Dr. Annette Warren & office was the right decision. I arrived & was taken before my appointed
time. Nothing horrific found after the
examination & xrays, but porcelain chips off 1<sup>st</sup> & 3rd teeth
of my lower left bridge, secondary most likely to my hard bite; no abscess, no
infection just inflammation, therefore some grinding & polishing & 3
prescriptions ($250.00). The dentist
& staff were very pleasant, efficient & professional with the latest of
equipment. Prescriptions filled &
home by 1000 hrs. Other activities of
the day: filling the fuel & water tanks, cleaning the deck, cockpit &
transom, washing the enclosure windows, long walk along East Bay Rd. to downtown
for banking, a horrible haircut for me, a beer at Hammerhead Bar (local), a
walk up one side of Potters Cay & down the other & purchasing a few
articles at Solomon’s Super Market ie milk.
Happy Hour was enjoyed on ‘Ambition’ over the supper hour. We tried for free internet at Solomon’s with
a connection but no internet, so down to Starbuck’s before they closed at 2100
hrs. Graeme examined Wind Alert for the
Exumas for the next 7 days on my laptop, while I glanced at my netbook for
emails, only answering a few that time allowed.
We have been impressed with Wind Alert website; easy to comprehend by 2
neophytes but just need internet access.
A warm night yet a coolish NE wind kicked up. A nearing ½ moon was seen earlier, clear
skies & stars with a few clouds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thurs. Dec. 20, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 79: <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> Nassau, New Providence to Highborne Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> 0710 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1640 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 34.6 NM (charts) 55.2 NM (boat)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> ESE to SE 13-18K,
decreased to 10-13K
<i> Seas: </i> 2-4 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> sunny with only a few
clouds, pleasantly warm temps<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I
experienced anxiety & butterflies once again before we departed mainly
because of a very strong cold front predicted for Fri. evening through Sat.
& the fact that we were off alone again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Lots of hands
were on the dock to let us off our slip; well done. Out of harbour via the east end with Nassau
Harbour Control’s permission. We headed
to Porgee Rocks (about 5 NM), then the VPR route over the lower section of
Middle Ground & the northern part of the Yellow Banks (numerous scattered
coral heads). We motorsailed in a SSE
direction, on a beat with the jenny, carrying a speed of 6.0- 6.4K, gliding
nicely through the 2 ft. rollers & crashing down in the troughs of the 4
footers. Because we were sailing into
the sun & the chopped state of the sea with rollers, Graeme wisely chose to
take a more southerly route to avoid the more numerous number of coral heads
slightly to the north, but then we had to tack X 2 to our destination to the
NE. I doned my foul weather jacket to be
protected from the salt water & spray, standing & bracing 1 foot on the
starboard rail & 2 hands tightly squeezing the starboard handle of the
dodger when we were in the coral head area.
At times Graeme sat crossways on the ICW seat bracing his feet on the
starboard lazarette or simply standing behind the wheel with feet in a wide
stance; auto was great at steering & keeping us on course. The SE winds decreased coincidentally once we
tacked to avoid a charted rock & then tacked back to corrected our
direction to Allans Cay. We were now
cruising the Exuma Cays!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> <i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Exuma Cays, Great Exuma Island &
Abacos are the 2 most popular cruising destinations in the Bahamas. They are 95 NM long with exquisite water, an
endless succession of cays (islands) & places with fuel, food & fellow
cruisers. They run NW to SE from 25oN to
23oN, are 35 NM SE from Nassau & New Providence to the remote southern Out
Islands. The east side (deeper water) is
called Exuma Sound with higher seas & the west (shallower & protected
from the prevailing SE winds) is called Exuma Bank with less winds, gentler
seas & better conditions. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> <b> </b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We entered
Allans Cay, <i>a group of 3 islands, Allans,
Southwest Allans & Leaf Cay, into the sheltered waters between these cays. </i> Already there were 9 sailboats in the north
anchorage & 1 in the south. We
anchored X 3 but unhappy with the locations, protection & holding in the 3<sup>rd</sup>
spot. <i> Allans Cay is the home to iguanas, remaining
prehistoric looking lizards found here & only the Out Islands. </i>We decided to move a short distance (1/2
hour) further south to Highborne Cay, <i>a
private island with limited privileges to cruisers, </i>anchoring along the
western coast, off the beach in 12 ft. & ?80-100 ft. chain (I lost track);
8 boats in total. We had our 1<sup>st</sup>
Bahamian sunset! Scattered clouds
crossed passed part of the sun; ? green flash followed by a red sky. The wind generator was switched on &
whirling. A half moon was present this
evening, clear skies with some clouds & stars.</span><br />
<br /><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJkCRTbxUjtHIErnSE1WAAoI7lJRs5xPkfRk2kVuILQR7UqbHzbxCRXIUBbKTYbH0fV1v7nVG6O99B8KwJX9ZxzHHeA-4hra9oWt1Mn0HAIQ-hTQRoH_QeF8GTKvtwHiORvPB5kkvTo_4F/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJkCRTbxUjtHIErnSE1WAAoI7lJRs5xPkfRk2kVuILQR7UqbHzbxCRXIUBbKTYbH0fV1v7nVG6O99B8KwJX9ZxzHHeA-4hra9oWt1Mn0HAIQ-hTQRoH_QeF8GTKvtwHiORvPB5kkvTo_4F/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+026.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">No Green Flash, but hopefully many more of these!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Fri. Dec. 21, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 80:</span><i> <o:p></o:p></i></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Highborne Cay to Cambridge Cay, Exuma Land & Sea Park<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> 0705 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1335 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 37.4 NM
(chart) NM (boat)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> AM: SSW 10K to</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> SW<b><i> </i></b>11-13K PM: SW to</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">W to </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">N 20-25K + gusts <i>Seas:</i> 1-2 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> warm, mainly sunny with
clouds filling in the afternoon; angry clouds from the west through the north +
rain squall<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">As the wind
clocked ESE & SE to the south during the night, it became a little rolly polly. C.P.’s reception was a bit better this am; we
caught just the 1<sup>st</sup> ½ hr., then we up anchored, hoping for a place
to hide from another but very strong cold front to hit late pm. Unfortunately instead of heading west, we took a more southerly exit
which put us in the shallows & in making a 360 to turn back, the keel hit
?coral (hard). Also unfortunate was the
fact that we were passing all these wonderful & numerous cays we or at
least I hoped to explore ie Normans, Shroud, Hawksbill Cays. We motorsailed on the jenny at a speed of
6-6.4K. We thought we had missed
Highborne Cay Net (VHF 16 to 09) at 0730 hrs. & Warderick Wells (VHF 16 to 09)
at 0800 hrs., but at 0815 hrs. the weather forecast from Highborne broke in. At 0900 hrs. Exuma Park broadcasted mooring
ball assignments & asked if anyone was leaving & if there was anyone
who wanted a ball. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A boat wanting a mooring ball can make a
request one day in advance. If lucky a
boat may get an assignment that day if so desired. If there are no mooring balls available a
boat is put on a waiting list for the following day & must listen to the
next day’s 0900 hrs. announcements.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Ih0t6ILZT6ZpFgvdAwlGduN-pnpewJ_A5DGjSwneY9N6NRQxB3NUhsClMUcq9YB14OFulC8B3oKDK6Th_DelofDyp1MrH8FegBYTCG-yHtGBicgpsaO2Nao_-j3Ds3uHBfm6V-Aw2ZoM/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Ih0t6ILZT6ZpFgvdAwlGduN-pnpewJ_A5DGjSwneY9N6NRQxB3NUhsClMUcq9YB14OFulC8B3oKDK6Th_DelofDyp1MrH8FegBYTCG-yHtGBicgpsaO2Nao_-j3Ds3uHBfm6V-Aw2ZoM/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+029.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">As we
cruised along admiring the water colour we kept Normans Stake & Elbow Cay
well off to port, as well as Cistern Bore, Lightning Bore, Long Rock Bore, Bell
Island Bore & Rocky Dundas Bore.
Keeping Fowl Cay to starboard we followed the Conch Channel towards
Conch Cut (to Exuma Sound) making a 90o turn at Cambridge Cay/Little Bell Cay past
shallow coral heads, rocky bars, sandbars to the mooring field maintained by
Exuma Park. We had the choice of mooring
ball; no one was here; we were all alone again, now waiting for the pending
storm. And right on schedule it showed
it’s ugly head, first with dark, swift moving clouds in the north, NW &
west. By 1600 hrs. SW winds increased
& shifted rapidly to the north, whitecaps had formed, < 1 ft. chop
because of the protection of surrounding land & little fetch. This location was a good decision on Graeme’s
part. Suddenly there was no visibility
of land & a wall of rain (squall) came from the NNW & N + steady 25K
winds. The exterior of the boat was
getting a good wash from the sea salt encrusted almost everywhere. Once the rains ceased after about overnight
& all of tomorrow. By bedtime the
howling continued but the clouds had thinned & a ½ moon peeked through,
then nothing but clear skies & glorious bright stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Sat. Dec. 22, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 81:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Cambridge Cay, Exuma Park<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> N 20-25K settling to
15-20K for most of day, then 10-15K at sunset
<i>Seas:</i> 1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> mostly sunny with some
clouds but cool north breeze<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">After the
cold front went through late yesterday afternoon the north winds blew &
howled all night 20-25K with frequent gusts of 30+K. I slept just the same while Graeme slept the
evening away so was on & off sleep through the night. We listened to weather from Chris at 0630
hrs. & Highborne Cay VHF 16 to </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">12 at 0800 hrs. & the boatlist from Exuma
Park at 0900 hrs.; winds were predicted to continue to blow at 20+K all day
with some relief tomorrow & more so Mon., Christmas Eve. We will call in the am (1 day ahead) to be
put on the waitlist for a mooring ball in the north field for Mon. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park extends
over 22 mi. from Wax Cay in the north to Compass</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> <i>Cay in
the south, covering 176 sq. mi.of cays, rocks, coral reefs, fish breeding
grounds & subtropical waters.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfysrk4-DCCYcFoLSuVBl8qA8n5MQgN3549VrGadN8xj4XUeCJ2m0C3Eqih1MGLLvX2QCnW1tvSw3YDB-Rc5Fl0E_K2dbXjoVd74ZRiiDNsDR6yYT5P48-y7zppqkctMoKQolbfTOSLjLL/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfysrk4-DCCYcFoLSuVBl8qA8n5MQgN3549VrGadN8xj4XUeCJ2m0C3Eqih1MGLLvX2QCnW1tvSw3YDB-Rc5Fl0E_K2dbXjoVd74ZRiiDNsDR6yYT5P48-y7zppqkctMoKQolbfTOSLjLL/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+036.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A bit of
housekeeping & locating Christmas decorations, listening to occasional chatter
on the VHF, no internet, nor phone signal to even call Lynn & Larry to see
how they are doing. I guess by now
people know that they did not & will not be crossing as Lynn was
hospitalized for another bout of pneumonia.
We miss them dearly! Here we sit
alone with gorgeous shades of aqua water with white crests, 1 ft. chop max.,
beaches & shoreline to walk, rocky trails to climb & explore, several
wonderful snorkeling spots & dinghy exploring amongst Rocky Dundas (caves),
Cambridge Cay, Bell Island, O’Briens Cay (Sea Aquarium & Coral Gardens to
snorkel), Soldier Cay, Little Halls Pond Cay & Halls Pond Cay, but today
was much too windy & too cold. We
have been lucky to have done many of these in the past. A 2/3 moon in the afternoon sky, an orange sky
at sunset & the first day of the days getting longer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Not just
today but on several occasions I’ve thought that I don’t have the right frame
of mind from the beginning of this trip.
Too much weather has held us up & caused us to use marinas &
mooring balls than anchoring preferably.
Too much salt air, salt spray, salt water, dampness of the sheets
climbing into bed most nights, inactivity, non productivity, confinement were
sometimes bothersome. And a great desire
for other new adventures. I often spend
my free time like this aft sitting outdoors in the protection of the enclosure
reading, suduko, & pondering my life; how much I like being
outside/outdoors which might be part of my love gardening & of playing
sports most of my life rather than spending hours indoors reading (although I
enjoy a good book, time permitting) or becoming more adept & skilled in
culinary ways. Although for the most
part I enjoyed my career, I often thought how I wished I had followed &
worked with my dad in carpentry & construction, such practical & useful
knowledge. On several occasions whether
it be drifting along in the Chesapeake, or calmly & gently cruising the ICW
or the Bahamas, or simply at a calm anchorage, I found myself just looking
& not thinking, of inner peace, happiness & tranquility & other
times of inner turmoil & sadness with tears flowing. I believe I have learnt more about myself
because of the availability of time until I’m back in the rat race of city
life. I wish to share a few quotes from
a wonderful & delightful book I just finished: “When it comes to kindness,
there are some people you can’t catch up with & just knowing them, having
their respect, being friends with them, gives a man a good feeling.” “And it occurred to me it was a cry-baby &
cowardly thing to wail, as do so many of our frustrated city dwellers, that
life has no deep meaning or reasoned plan that the individual can fathom. For even if this be true, & no matter
what life signifies, including nothing, it can still be a rather wonderful
adventure, if you allow yourself to adventure in it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Sun. Dec. 23, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 82:</span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Cambridge Cay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> E 13-15K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> partly sunny with fair
weather clouds, coolish breeze, dry; mid afternoon some grey clouds as well as at
sunset, L 63F<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJzS7MGUV7iJK-tjbw9wVMxmMFcRZtHV7zwYMV-CgBKXZMYNOZuI2Y42xSuMIi4-FsWIFAO3wNVWcI4gny_SKAUAEXZAyHFbT9oGm8yaxI3UTz0jWi8agUXoYtAUHzRAR4wJ2wrYfTeNqP/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJzS7MGUV7iJK-tjbw9wVMxmMFcRZtHV7zwYMV-CgBKXZMYNOZuI2Y42xSuMIi4-FsWIFAO3wNVWcI4gny_SKAUAEXZAyHFbT9oGm8yaxI3UTz0jWi8agUXoYtAUHzRAR4wJ2wrYfTeNqP/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">This is the view from our front window!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpvpjHKXkijCJ0ohszWMe5bdGsnkWO4gNU0cxEiXHMLkXI33NuL1yDQSaQ9KkZm8kWf903uusezVSwx0va9tArkwnKoRO0WRLyWNVIMxLsMtkGedMdIGxHwHlDC-X9Vw5PgwcRKpgdfPP/s1600/Miami%252C+Florida+%2526+Exumas+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpvpjHKXkijCJ0ohszWMe5bdGsnkWO4gNU0cxEiXHMLkXI33NuL1yDQSaQ9KkZm8kWf903uusezVSwx0va9tArkwnKoRO0WRLyWNVIMxLsMtkGedMdIGxHwHlDC-X9Vw5PgwcRKpgdfPP/s320/Miami%252C+Florida+%2526+Exumas+035.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I woke briefly during the night to what
sounded like the mooring ball tapping against the hull, especially when there
was a lull in the wind, something different than the last 2 nights. Looking up through the hatch I could see an
enormous number of stars. After rising
the boat was now facing east; a change in wind direction as well as strength
& now I wondered if tidal currents were having an effect which was the
possible explanation for the mooring ball tapping on the hull, but I had not
taken note of the early hour. At 0830
hrs. ‘Blue Yonder’ had no weather or tides but a schedule of events for
Christmas Week at Staniel Cay. And at
0900 hrs. Exuma Park gave us a terrific mooring ball assignment (#14) for
today, but later we called back as promised & declined the assignment for
today but would go on the waitlist for tomorrow. We were on a falling tide till 1100’ish
(visual observation only), although despite our efforts no one was able to
confirm any info re tides & tomorrow was a better situation by leaving
early + winds were to be more settled.
Sitting in the cockpit we could see out west the occasional sail or
powerboat, but here were still sat all alone.
Graeme launched the dinghy as the water & wind were more
gentle. We saw a double masted sailboat
coming towards Cambridge Cay from the SW, downed their sails & anchored off
the more southern beach on Cambridge Cay.
Just as we got under way in the dinghy for some exploring, a sailboat
sporting a Canadian flag was coming in & picked up a mooring ball beside
us. Later we discovered the boat was
‘Audacious’ (Catalina 42); we had met Jackie & Roger & their daughter 2
yrs. ago, friends of Judy & Mike (‘Sea Sharp’). We dinghied north across the cut passed Bell
Island (new construction), O’Briens Cay & Soldier Cay & their
snorkeling sites, then back to Mailbox Cay & southern Cambridge Cay well
above Conch Cut. At sunset cloud cover
from the N & E obscured the lowering sun, but an orangey sky did develop
above the clouds after the setted sun. I
can’t adequately describe the billions of brilliant, magical constellations
& stars tonight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Mon. Dec. 24, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 83:</span> </span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Cambridge Cay to Warderick Wells, Exuma Park<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> 0720 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1020 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 13.81 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> SE to E 8-13K
<i>Seas:</i> 1 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSNViE2c8dzz1G6LrGnCCtx2JA6OqkgkwYDQDnOl383gHKpwTT5kDoefJojJtDoIICfhre2VDdpc1bsozv1K6ZiUFDKOq68azWVkb_84oC_yihh2RNIegpzdPByGfejhfeARDSjOf4NUz/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSNViE2c8dzz1G6LrGnCCtx2JA6OqkgkwYDQDnOl383gHKpwTT5kDoefJojJtDoIICfhre2VDdpc1bsozv1K6ZiUFDKOq68azWVkb_84oC_yihh2RNIegpzdPByGfejhfeARDSjOf4NUz/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+053.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Warderick Wells</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> warm, magnificent sun once
the </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">normal am cloud passed</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdEM4yEjS2lG64EvIVnkkEDrBHEZC1TDca2GXSb7vOVQnRXwHGNRTaF6Wv5yFu9peYGs7O3R8HVzb_vczLL6SMIqwYi9BR-17vn1vRgIQAoKDujcULN5ReMCQouCiCjwTeSsJhTaJDdRF/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdEM4yEjS2lG64EvIVnkkEDrBHEZC1TDca2GXSb7vOVQnRXwHGNRTaF6Wv5yFu9peYGs7O3R8HVzb_vczLL6SMIqwYi9BR-17vn1vRgIQAoKDujcULN5ReMCQouCiCjwTeSsJhTaJDdRF/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+054.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">First Bahamian Happy Hour!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Christmas
Eve!!! It just doesn’t feel like
it. We received the SSB 0630 hrs.
transmission by C.P.’s replacement for today & tomorrow but like one
subscriber said he was not clearly heard because he did not speak loud enough
or was too far from his mike & sounded like he was in a tin can. Instead we finished breakfast & on the
move from our isolated, protected, solitude environment X 3 days. Once we motored past</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> the caution shoal &
reef area & were west enough to avoid Bell Island Bore, we turned NW,
rolled out the jenny & my Christmas gift arrived early—a school of 6-8
dolphins or porpoises played in our bow wake for the longest time, then 3
lingered for a while longer; I got several movies. At 0900 hrs. Exuma Park gave us our mooring
assignment #4, not as good or close to the office as yesterday #14 but we were
protected from waves from all directions & the view was spectacular. The Christmas tree was set up, bow &
snowflakes were hung & battery operated Christmas lights were strung in the
cockpit. With the dinghy lowered we headed
to the office to pay our fees; bought a $50.00 membership which gave us 2 free
nights (used for Cambridge Cay stay) + 2 X $15.00 for Warderick Wells + $15.00
for new & improved Wifi X 24 hrs. or 100 MB. Then the crusher—absolutely no cell phone
service! We signed up for the Christmas
Dinner at 1300 hrs. tomorrow & I purchased a couple of Christmas gifts for
Graeme. Back at the boat I baked a pan
of brownies as our contribution for the Christmas meal. Then it was Happy Hour at the beach. We met up with ‘Truansea’ & many more new
cruisers whose boat names we heard frequently on the VHF. This helped for the time being with my
feelings of homesickness for my family & our traditional Christmas events. The mosquitoes shooed us home after
sunset. Graeme played my Il Divo
Christmas tape twice through during & after dinner. Both of sat listening with tears streaming
down my face & tears even welled up in Graeme’s eyes, especially when he
said “at least you have family left”. No
phone connection to call Ottawa or the Morrows.
The pits! Yet an amazing night in
Warderick Wells with so many boats light up with Christmas lights, bright ¾
moon in the sky, the Bahamian breeze blowing & unique water slapping
against the hull. <span style="color: red;">Merry Christmas </span>& <span style="color: #00b050;">Peace
on Earth</span><span style="color: red;">!</span><span style="color: #00b050;">!</span><span style="color: red;">!</span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tues. Dec. 25, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 84:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Warderick Wells<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> ESE to SE 8-12K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> mostly sunny with a few
clouds, warm (near 80F)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Merry
Christmas!!!</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivsRQZgJUtBb9TOMgsy2izOlZseevKCjCy3RmSlCb5DWsUwV6dLfF5pjl2r8wawS0fsjOXOOsMDV-cxw3camZk7IHAUKV-f7lcG6BaQdyvqJHQx4-eLDoNkRZAdFIIU-DVisWfAZcGnPMC/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivsRQZgJUtBb9TOMgsy2izOlZseevKCjCy3RmSlCb5DWsUwV6dLfF5pjl2r8wawS0fsjOXOOsMDV-cxw3camZk7IHAUKV-f7lcG6BaQdyvqJHQx4-eLDoNkRZAdFIIU-DVisWfAZcGnPMC/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+059.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Santa does come to the Exumas too!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6KhWxqpVerKH8r-fw7zI-cv6fngOFF846ZUFxPnK507-4wGRXfJ3jqvu-VxR6keZR76SIwtLb3NxktUGEdvq1v0aU_997nocTcWhqEgqRZjsRvN_C_8zgjLw6G8TJemWd_3UVbBb9fl1T/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6KhWxqpVerKH8r-fw7zI-cv6fngOFF846ZUFxPnK507-4wGRXfJ3jqvu-VxR6keZR76SIwtLb3NxktUGEdvq1v0aU_997nocTcWhqEgqRZjsRvN_C_8zgjLw6G8TJemWd_3UVbBb9fl1T/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+060.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Think snow!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKWXZFP7Gl6igqNFupTUUh6S4_6DQumEROTL5j-33n5GvcXHFKN5fGNDYbbEol5wg8MrlisKJrmQN9DcRilu1MymS65k2Not76uMUlapa62oLuo7ZliRXnefnx9dhFm1HSsnzzoF6hEPk/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKWXZFP7Gl6igqNFupTUUh6S4_6DQumEROTL5j-33n5GvcXHFKN5fGNDYbbEol5wg8MrlisKJrmQN9DcRilu1MymS65k2Not76uMUlapa62oLuo7ZliRXnefnx9dhFm1HSsnzzoF6hEPk/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+061.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We slept in
till 0700-0730 hrs. as no one was transmitting weather today & we were
staying put. A little special menu for
breakfast this morning-- fruit cocktail followed by banana pancakes &
coffee; sorry, no champagne & orange juice.
We exchanged a few small Christmas gifts between the two of us. I cooked a supper meal, if not for tonight,
for Boxing Day + another evening meal.
Mid morning we went to shore, landing the dinghy on Powerful Beach &
walked the Boo Boo Hill Trail, that took us to the highest elevation
overlooking both Exuma Sound (Atlantic) & Exuma Banks. The Atlantic was too calm today so the blow
holes were not spraying sea. It was on
to Boo Boo Hill where we met a company of 6 off of ‘Audacious’; one in the
group was successfully calling home to wish her mother Merry Christmas &
Happy Birthday. We returned to our boat,
quickly showered & dressed for the Exuma Park Christmas Dinner at 1300
hrs.; Warden Henry & wife Teesha cooked the turkey & ham & us
cruisers (50+) provided a great variety of scrumptious complimentary dishes. Just before attending the dinner I ran back
up Boo Boo Hill & called Mom then Larry.
My heavy heart was relieved; my Christmas was more complete. I felt so much better now having talked to
both of them & was able to enjoy the Christmas gathering so much more. Once the crowd had thinned about 1600 hrs. I
stood near the warden’s antenna & successfully called & talked to all
my family in Ottawa gathered at my sister’s house. Not feeling hungry I activated the internet I
had purchased on my netbook (longer battery life). Within one hour I apparently had used up my
100 MB or 24 hrs. at a price of $15.00; I had only opened approximately 6
emails & responded to a few. I will
check this out in the morning as I was assured that people run out of time
before the MB. The Christmas lights were
on in the cockpit & the CD’s were playing in the cabin tonight. After sunset the SE winds had increased &
continued through the warm night. A near
full moon shone brightly in the partly clear & partly cloudy star filled
night sky. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-4669422243177677612012-12-14T18:52:00.002-08:002013-04-22T13:58:34.408-07:00Week 11: Dec. 12-18, 2012 (Day 71-77)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 11:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Dec. 12, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 71:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Alice
Town, North Bimini<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SE 12-15K in am, diminishing to
about 10K in pm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly cloudy
in am, sunny & warm & most pleasant comfortable temps (breeze) <b> </b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvR-UsXNBIBrK9O3VmgdMqbgt6csGp6WsPNWHBPpcdO1W8ff2p_gC1Oi9VYa2wY-67wzsVWrHLx_ITpS1EhyphenhyphenX-eUmZGUAcCRBQkYRAZ9poiA75y-M1mL3sgbDKJqq4dLkj6QQFa2yOYNz6/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvR-UsXNBIBrK9O3VmgdMqbgt6csGp6WsPNWHBPpcdO1W8ff2p_gC1Oi9VYa2wY-67wzsVWrHLx_ITpS1EhyphenhyphenX-eUmZGUAcCRBQkYRAZ9poiA75y-M1mL3sgbDKJqq4dLkj6QQFa2yOYNz6/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+060.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We
didn’t get Chris’ SSB broadcast at 0600 hrs. but his 0630 hrs.; our weather
window has closed & a northern blow was to arrive near midnight Thurs.
through Fri. & weakening Sat. With
the delay of our crossing from Florida we now do not have time to move from
Bimini to an anchorage with enough northern protection. We compared notes with our dock neighbours
this am, Gail & Eric Grehan ‘Viking’s Dream’ (52 ft. Jefferson trawler)
from Winnipeg, Man. There is a
possibility of gale force winds from the SW on Tues. Dec. 18. We thought of leaving Bimini Sun., cross from
North Rocks north of Bimini to the Great Bahamas Banks toward Great Bullock
Harbour the 1<sup>st</sup> night, for an apparent calm night on the Banks, then
hunker down Mon. night on the NE side of Great Harbour Cay for Tues. blow. So I guess we have no choice but to stay here,
therefore Graeme hooked up to electricity ($10.00/ day); good time to charge
everything. We will monitor Chris
Parker, NOAA & if possible Weather Passage & Wind Alert. Housekeeping duties filled the rest of the morning,
then some internet soon after lunch as I was able to hook to the unsecured line
from Sea Crest Hotel &/or WiFi in adjacent marina. We walked to the south end of North
Bimini. It was low tide & some sea glass
& old shells of different sizes washed up in the sand. We walked along the upper/beach road along
the west side of the island (Radio Beach) overlooking the Straits of Florida
that we had just crossed yesterday towards the north to Bailey Town, then back
the lower road on the east side. That
evening we watched fishermen from Sea Crest next door cutting, skinning,
filleting & packaging their catches of the day, ie mahi mahi, wahoo,
tuna. The sky was a lovely colour at sunset. We chatted to Gail & Eric till dark, learning about their background & family.
A well received shower after a late supper. Internet connection was O.K. so I continued
working till late. The SE winds about 10K
continued & the sky was clear with a considerable number of stars. Christmas lights decorated some of the
buildings.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Dec. 13, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 72:</span> </span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Alice Town,
Bimini<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:
</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">S 5K in am, suddenly N mid
afternoon gusting to 15-20K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> brilliant sun,
blue skies & few fair weather white clouds & very warm; suddenly mid
afternoon dark clouds from SW that seemed they would miss us, but also with a
sudden change in wind direction & strength from the north, the clouds
passed over the island & brought some rain<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2s0P1vpU0uy8LnRoTDKp1ab9zeJF9QU7p0FT3e3qBC7uZQ_5X9IpBweJOOGu6ZXiKDlJw_BaKhxILXtKXN5WOu2F9zXldHYP-kyo5sa3v5Jh7s2qXJfidQz34mQ_AuBeN-gS6nAGQo6L/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2s0P1vpU0uy8LnRoTDKp1ab9zeJF9QU7p0FT3e3qBC7uZQ_5X9IpBweJOOGu6ZXiKDlJw_BaKhxILXtKXN5WOu2F9zXldHYP-kyo5sa3v5Jh7s2qXJfidQz34mQ_AuBeN-gS6nAGQo6L/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+062.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We
were unable to get Chris at 0600 hrs. but a fair reception at 0630 hrs. &
poor reception for the NOAA report.
After breakfast the canvass windows & the stainless got a soap &
water bath. ‘Viking’s Dream’ had to be
moved into a slip across the dock from us; JR, a very knowledgeable skillful
dock hand, directed the operation. Shortly thereafter a 100 ft.
fuel boat arrived taking up the full length of the fuel dock; the fueling went
on for hours & the boat stayed dockside overnight. Some internet till early pm then a walk to
the hardware store for 2 small hose clamps, then to the beach for laying on the
beach reading in the sun (low tide).
Suddenly at 1500 hrs. the wall of ominous black clouds descended quickly
upon us with a equally sudden change in wind direction from S</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">SW to W to </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">N
& strength as well (10-</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">15-20K). We briefly looked at Passage Weather & Wind Alert on the internet. Spurts of fine misty rain then finally a good
rain to wash some of the salt off the decks, but still warm as we sat in the
cockpit watching the weather change, reading & even having supper for a
change in the cockpit. We both worked
away at the internet as each took their turn taking a shower. Cloudy at sundown & during the night with
north winds blowing +/- 15K. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Dec. 14, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 73:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Alice Town,
Bimini<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> N</span> to <span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">NNE</span> to <span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">NE
12-20K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly sunny
with a few clouds, much less humid <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOsQ-H3t_IfpqTb5wBSEniiHix8uVFCBaM7eAQ8YqSQHt2b74m0S4MQLFoW_GNSBCCeGMjh9JnhHA0_3rflrsDZ8awUzIPg3p8vYyOCbvJnU_x909X9ke09Dw3O9ZZW-jqawjfHz6Mzcsg/s1600/Alice+Town,+N.+Bimini+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOsQ-H3t_IfpqTb5wBSEniiHix8uVFCBaM7eAQ8YqSQHt2b74m0S4MQLFoW_GNSBCCeGMjh9JnhHA0_3rflrsDZ8awUzIPg3p8vYyOCbvJnU_x909X9ke09Dw3O9ZZW-jqawjfHz6Mzcsg/s320/Alice+Town,+N.+Bimini+018.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Candy Cane Parade</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">The
alarm rang for us to get up to listen to 0630 hrs. SSB weather, but Chris came
in rather poorly today; don’t know if it was from interference because the fuel
boat was still beside us. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>It
appeared that we are here till Sunday & also a change of plans necessary as
per location for the next blow Tues. through Thurs. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>A refreshing breeze today as I had a
long powerwalk (nearly 1-1/2 hrs.) as far north of North Bimini as possible,
through Bailey Town, Porgy Bay & Bimini Bay along the east shore
road. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Here a new, high end,
exclusive Bimini Bay Resort & Marina resides; it is still under
construction with only a couple of small powerboats in the 300 slips. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>My return route was via the upper west
beach road. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>High tide was
till 1040 hrs. & it was rough out on the Straits of Florida with waves
breaking & crashing on shore. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Some
blog writing in order this morning. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>After
lunch just as we were about to start our walk, the Christian Academy's Candy
Cane Parade passed; school children handed out candy cane to those of us
bystanders. We then walked to the close RBC Bank using the ATM, then to
the beach for some reading on the sand, in the sun, watching & listening to
the crashing waves; now low tide. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Happy
Hour was on ‘Viking’s Dream’ (1999) starting with a tour of course; we firmed
up plans on departure if weather conditions remain status quo. The hours
zoomed by. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>There was a
brief rain shower while preparing supper. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Supper, shower & internet with
Bahamian music in the background; after all it was a Friday night. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>A dark night, clear skies with stars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Sat. Dec. 15, 2012—</span></b><b><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Day
74:</span></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></b></span><b><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> Alice
Town, N. Bimini<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> ENE to E 10-15K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> mostly cloudy with short
sunny periods, frequent rain showers in am; partly cloudy & sunny in pm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4usXb7a8xaHqjoX4ErKSdI_C4htJUN1MdIPpxjblPa1zBNLRbQnuEGNC9D-rlLHnSsejgf80XNghbSCR6zMi11y2SOLZWs43L6iFJ-Q3fvTMWM2AhVkuVhyHq26IEKx4ejeMDWwb76ZX/s1600/Alice+Town,+N.+Bimini+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4usXb7a8xaHqjoX4ErKSdI_C4htJUN1MdIPpxjblPa1zBNLRbQnuEGNC9D-rlLHnSsejgf80XNghbSCR6zMi11y2SOLZWs43L6iFJ-Q3fvTMWM2AhVkuVhyHq26IEKx4ejeMDWwb76ZX/s320/Alice+Town,+N.+Bimini+010.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyQimFPVxsK4RYRyAoaPt_pJVmo9cWbnu1kfqfkYXErYWdEbSu4sxuKkGEPB92-Tz8gyGqq-juF7e5ac_SLk9_Gh-Orn-sUKYHYHp2TAnqCGM-dugXE7j4AgACMmaFaFBLWyjw5DQzI1G/s1600/Alice+Town%252C+N.+Bimini+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyQimFPVxsK4RYRyAoaPt_pJVmo9cWbnu1kfqfkYXErYWdEbSu4sxuKkGEPB92-Tz8gyGqq-juF7e5ac_SLk9_Gh-Orn-sUKYHYHp2TAnqCGM-dugXE7j4AgACMmaFaFBLWyjw5DQzI1G/s320/Alice+Town%252C+N.+Bimini+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">A</span><b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </b><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">fairly decent reception of Chris’ 0630 hrs. SSB broadcast;
no great weather or chance for those waiting in Florida to cross to the Bahamas
until later Sun. & Mon. eg ‘Moma Cal’ & ‘Kathrian’.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">And for us, tomorrow looked O.K. to leave
Bimini, but winds predicted to be east, right on the nose.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">But we have to move as another system is
coming Tues. pm., worse on Wed. with a possible move on Thurs.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">The frequent morning rain showers helped
clean more of the salt from the decks & window enclosure.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">I shook the rug & mats & washed the
floor, changed the bed linen (but who knows when I will have reasonable costing
laundry facilities) & washed the walls etc. of the V-berth.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">I worked away at some emails & composed
our Christmas Letter to family & friends & sent it off, then studied
Passage Weather & Wind Alert.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We
found some discrepancy in the forecast for Tues. through Thurs.; according to
the 2 mentioned sites all O.K. for those days, but 30K predicted starting noon
Fri. Dec. 21.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We will need to
reassess.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We ordered some cinnamon swirl
bread with raisins from Nate of Charlie’s Bread & Bakery (Bailey Town just
below the R.C. Church-$6.00) from the marina office & it was delivered while
</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">we walked to the liquor store & RBC ATM.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">The marina was having problems with their generator
that makes R/O water (reverse osmosis).</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We walked for about 2 hours all the way to Bimini Bay Resort & Marina,
passing a quartered off area before & after the police & admin. offices
for the Children’s Christmas Party.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We
walked all about checking out the facilities, bumping into Gail & Eric
& stopping for a drink at the bar; expensive & still the place was
empty despite being a weekend.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">By the
time we returned the marina had made about 10 gal. of R/O water for us, the
amount Graeme thought would fill the tank; we squeezed 12 gal. out of the system
($7.20).</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We were not sure what the next
few days will bring.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Soup only for
supper, checked Passage Weather & Wind Alert sites again, then showered.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">A clear starry night sky.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Sun. Dec. 16, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 75:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> N.
Bimini to Great Bahama Bank (25o29.079N/ 078o32.940W)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> 0735 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1615 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 56.74 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> S 10K --> </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">ESE to E 8-18K</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">--></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">E to SE 12-15K <i>Seas:</i>
1-2 ft. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">to</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> 4 ft.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> clouds to the north, blue
sky to the E; early pm clouds arrived from SE<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTIR05Tqh7tFCRoo75DqETc_UX_EfJ7bv4LrtAu26DddRJ8_tgKFaK-0wHJ5L_8_kwiNHfgLQPXSkTC_8Jx2cdwfCovQuLpyGSZox-u_wvIrkRab2KqjcbErYaxVVFSLoaB-ktfr2dZ_a/s1600/Alice+Town%252C+N.+Bimini+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTIR05Tqh7tFCRoo75DqETc_UX_EfJ7bv4LrtAu26DddRJ8_tgKFaK-0wHJ5L_8_kwiNHfgLQPXSkTC_8Jx2cdwfCovQuLpyGSZox-u_wvIrkRab2KqjcbErYaxVVFSLoaB-ktfr2dZ_a/s320/Alice+Town%252C+N.+Bimini+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">N. Bimini Beach--Hoping to see more of this!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">East winds
picked up at bedtime last night, creating a choppy, rolling action of the boat as
it was tied up at a north-south facing slip, which did settle down. Near 0400 hrs. I woke to near calmness, then
a sudden east gust & brief rain shower (small squall). Breakfast was followed by a quick
shower. All things below were stashed
away, we unplugged from shorepower & untied from the dock with Eric’s assistance. We motored up the near unmarked channel we
arrived by 6 days ago, against current (high tide = 1104 hrs.). The knotmeter was not working, an indication
we were in one place for too long; it was cleaned & functioning again. We headed south past Turtle Rocks via the
Straits of Florida (50 ft. depths) towards Triangle Rocks, then turned SSE onto
the Great Bahama Bank (8-13 ft. depths)& it’s brilliant aqua coloured
water. The jenny was set but at times it
was difficult keeping it working; we even moved the jenny lines inside the 2
port stays for a period of time. Early
afternoon the clouds increased from the SE & winds increased. In the distance we could see ‘Viking’s Dream”
behind us but gaining ground. She was
equipped with radar & all the bells & whistles, so was able to hail us
& warn us of some rainstorm cells in the NE that passed us by. There were some very interesting cloud
formations today & I don’t know that we were going to be that lucky all
night. We anchored in the middle of
nowhere it seemed in 15 ft. & 130 ft. chain; no land within sight, about 5
mi. west of Russell Light. We had hoped
to reach Russell Light & better yet the shoal just north of NW Shoal. It was a lumpy night to say the least; the
seas did not lay down but instead increased.
Grey clouds were all around except to the west; there was a clear band
of sky just above the horizon & a beautiful sunset with red skies that
illuminated the clouds above. For a
couple of days now I had been experiencing a non normal/ tenderness around my
chipped tooth area --></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> ? inflammation; I took Ibuprofen + Gravol 50
mg. more so for sleep with these choppy seas & did sleep well. The wind generator was turned on after the
engine was switched off & it worked all night long. The seas did calm down at some point.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mon. Dec. 17, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day
76:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> Great
Bahama Bank to Frazer’s Hog Cay, Berry Islands (25o25.337N/ 77o50.134W)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> 0730 hrs. <i>Arrival: </i> 1425 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> about 42 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> SSE 10K</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> SE 5-12K
Seas: 0-1ft.</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> 2ft. some 3 ft. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> partly sunny & cloudy
am; brilliant sunshine in pm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">At some
point during the night the seas calmed.
We caught C.P. at 0630 hrs. during breakfast. My tooth was about the same, but took
Ibuprofen X2 + applied Sensodyne Toothpaste around the tooth; for this reason
we have planned one night in Frazer’s Hog Cay, then to Nassau where it there
would be more possibility for treatment.
We motorsailed with the jenny maintaining 5.7 – 6.0K on a close reach to
beam reach. No light, beacon or stick
indicating Russell Light or NW Shoal. We
entered the NW Providence Channel by 1100 hrs.; such a different & calm,
comfortable, pleasant experience than 2 yrs. ago. We went from aqua coloured water to cobalt/
indigo blue. The winds shifted a few
degrees so we were able to sail more off the wind & with a bit more
strength, although the seas increased a wee bit; a few slammers every once in a
while. Past Chubb Cay we entered the
unmarked channel into Frazer’s Hog Cay against current but with good 9 ft.+
depths & picked up a mooring ball of the now bankrupt/out-of-business Berry
Island Marina. We checked the ball, all
the lines & linkages & all seemed in good shape. There was one other sailboat & ‘Viking’s
Dream’ on mooring balls + 2 sailboats in slips of the marina. I called & made reservations at Nassau
Harbour Club Hotel & Marina for
tomorrow & asked for a recommendation for a dentist (Dr. Marlene Sawyer
(242) 328-1726). A nice sunset squeaked
in & dropped behind Chubb Cay in a band of clear red sky just above the
horizon to a line of overhead clouds that litterly gave us drops of rain. Graeme & I both got an abundance of sun
the last 2 days & needed a shower in the worst way. A splendid night, dark, clear skies filled
with stars+++ & a bowl shaped moon. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Chubb & Frazer’s Hog Cays are part of the
chain of 30 large islands = numerous small cays that make up the Berry
Islands. These islands lie on the NE
edge of the Great Bahama Bank &
stretch about 30 mi. from Great Stirrup Cay to the north & Chubb Cay to the
south. They are bounded NE by the NW
Providence Channel & south by the Tongue of the Ocean. The west is shoal. The Berry’s are known for their beautiful
anchorages & excellent fishing. The
population is <1000, Great Harbour Cay is the largest island & most
populated.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tues. Dec. 18, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 77:</span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Frazer’s Hog Cay to Nassau, New Providence<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> 0715 hrs<i>. Arrival: </i>1315 hrs. <i>Distance: </i>34 NM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> SW 10-14K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> mostly sunny, few cloudy
periods & quite warm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjgbLGetoHqLFJ3velnQ9hjTR9k1_wZrwjWyNDIWUP4kZ8khmopGOjJUxHAM3R_YrukNSptpABm6KCwQeBqV6OA8Ll4S99wqKUdYQi4fKoThvIqKsvsq-TNVH9wFnYYaw1ijBtWx7JU3k/s1600/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjgbLGetoHqLFJ3velnQ9hjTR9k1_wZrwjWyNDIWUP4kZ8khmopGOjJUxHAM3R_YrukNSptpABm6KCwQeBqV6OA8Ll4S99wqKUdYQi4fKoThvIqKsvsq-TNVH9wFnYYaw1ijBtWx7JU3k/s320/Miami,+Florida+&+Exumas+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Welcome to Nassau with Atlantis in background!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">A calm,
restful night & good reception for CP in the morning.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We said our goodbyes & thanks to Gail
& Eric on our departure, as they were off to West Bay, then Highbourne Cay
& Staniel Cay X 1 mon. (mostly Feb.) before heading to Georgetown for
March.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We headed to Nassau hoping to see
a dentist; also a good opportunity to do laundry & maybe purchase some
fresh fruit & vegetables.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">It was a
beam reach; can’t ask for anything better than that!</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We motorcruised along at 6.4- 6.9K under
jenny alone.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">As we were getting closer
to Nassau we heard lots of transmissions of boats asking Nassau Harbour Control
for permission to enter harbour.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Six
miles out we asked & received our permission but slowed down to allow a
large cruise ship entrance & ability to turn stern in.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">I phoned the recommended dentist by the
marina yesterday but not available (? accident) & was given the Dental Clinic</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">(Dr. Jill Sawyer) & number; the dentist
was not in today & open tomorrow & all appointments full but could come
in as a walk-in at 1000 hrs. & wait.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We were hailed by Merrill Mant (Ambition) from Montreal, whom we met on
our first trip to the Bahamas in 2008-09.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">He was moving from Rose Island to Nassau Harbour Club Marina, the same
marina we have reservations.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Three
Canadian boats arrived at the same time but the staff were quick &
efficient in handling our arrivals.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">A
quick hello with Merrill & his new girlfriend Maryse, then we registered at
the marina office & learnt of a dental office across the street in the
Harbour Bay Shopping Center.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">A shower, 3
loads of laundry washed & into 2 dryers, then to the shopping center
complex.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We located the dentist office
as described & they were so good in accommodating me for 0830 hrs. the next
morning ($150.00 for consultation including xrays).</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">The laundry was not dry, so 2 more tokens
purchased (Total= 3 washers+ 4 dryers X $3.00= $21.00!).</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Merrill & Maryse brought a bottle of
chilled champagne in celebration of our meeting; we chatted away catching up on
news out in the cockpit & did not even pay any attention to the
sunset.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">We gathered the laundry before
our very late supper.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">A warm night,
gentle breeze, mostly clear sky with stars & 1/3 moon. Oh, just as I was
closing my computer down, a wonderful firework display came from Paradise
Island.</span> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5788161692284258249.post-85958862236806624752012-12-06T19:07:00.001-08:002013-04-22T13:37:59.891-07:00Week 10: Dec. 5-11, 2012 (Day 64-70)<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 10:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wed. Dec. 5, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 64:</span></span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Fort
Lauderdale, Cooley’s (Mile 1067)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> light & hard to detect the
direction due to the tall buildings & funnel effect<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> mostly cloudy
early am with a small shower, then mostly sunny & warm, H= upper 70’s &
L= upper 60’s<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXygXJVd4d8ISiq9r3-xSr9xscD4X38XoqSCZzP_CMjCG9SYAtK3iXpzVrppKreiRpH0ldTS-IElLRKv1S_rUbZtybJPmQYxEXwu15WpUmdLEbzxyr4e3wuV5tOiTRklnwYnBHzIhy3e-c/s1600/2012-12-4+038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXygXJVd4d8ISiq9r3-xSr9xscD4X38XoqSCZzP_CMjCG9SYAtK3iXpzVrppKreiRpH0ldTS-IElLRKv1S_rUbZtybJPmQYxEXwu15WpUmdLEbzxyr4e3wuV5tOiTRklnwYnBHzIhy3e-c/s320/2012-12-4+038.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Jungle Queen</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We
were all busy beavers right after breakfast & a short powerwalk for
me. First order of the day the 3 guys
helping each other pump out their heads extremely well. I thoroughly washed the enclosure windows
with soap & water; the deck, cockpit & transom were scrubbed & even
the ICW yellow stain on the transom was eliminated with wood bleach (oxalic
acid). Graeme retied the #2 anchor,
which I must have moved when cleaning the stainless a few days ago so the chain
locker hatch did not open fully & he walked to BB&T bank + scrubbed all
the cockpit cushions & paid for today’s stay in the pm. Approaching noon Lee arrived with Christine,
Mark, Logan (11 yrs. old) & Cole (9 yrs. old) Fiechter (‘Truansea’) from
Idaho. Lee helped them find their Hunter
Legend 37 & bring it up to comfortable cruising condition. They have similar plans to winter in the
Bahamas & would like to cross with us.
There is a weather window for tomorrow & Fri. to move to South
Beach, Miami. Do we stay 1 more day or
go? I would like to stay just 1 more day
to relax & cycle around Lauderdale for a few hours & oh, post week 9
with pics of my blog. The rugs got a
beating & vacuuming, the floors were vacuumed & the floor boards were
lifted & wiped & vacuumed, even the edges of each floor board
compartment with a toothbrush & vacuum.
It took less than 30 min. but Bill & I cycled to the Walgreens for
him to buy ice. Off for well needed showers
before supper. Terri & Bill hosted
movie night after supper, “The Outlaws”—terrific. A mostly cloudy night. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thurs. Dec. 6, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 62:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Fort
Lauderdale, Cooley’s (Mile 1067)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> light, ? southerly trend<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> cloudy with
sunny periods, then sunny with cloudy periods, warm, H= upper 70’s & L= 70<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLn7DKsvWj42tjuoqsKO6QaQVpZgCNZs0NrttCYaXmJB8P9BRMKUmvvV19XlCZV1sURWALb-l2REMzxGqQJYaheK6dDkDBAOcYu15WO0SsdGHyfXSXqXrjFLMihKdgdae5NuBF9WhzXnF/s1600/2012-12-4+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLn7DKsvWj42tjuoqsKO6QaQVpZgCNZs0NrttCYaXmJB8P9BRMKUmvvV19XlCZV1sURWALb-l2REMzxGqQJYaheK6dDkDBAOcYu15WO0SsdGHyfXSXqXrjFLMihKdgdae5NuBF9WhzXnF/s320/2012-12-4+047.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Surrounded with buildings like this on the New River</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A
number of mornings now whether at anchor or marina, I have enjoyed having my
breakfast in my PJs in the cockpit. I
went off for a powerwalk X 1 hrs. east along Las Olas Blvd. then on my way home
in & out, up & down streets until I was able to get on the
Riverwalk. Graeme called Mark &
Christine Fiechter & made arrangements for tomorrow’s departure. Lee arrived just as I had torn ½ the aft
cabin & bed boards apart. He &
Graeme chatted away as I vacuumed, washed down the walls & storage area
listening & once in a while adding comments to the conversation, then
stored the wine boxes & warm weather clothes I hope not to have to use
& some of the road maps under the bed boards, then rearranged the mattress
& all the other crap “that must be there & easily accessible”. Finally a great shower. Terri & Bill returned after noon with
their car rental. Lee left to say
goodbye to the Fiechters but will see all of us off tomorrow as we leave Fort
Lauderdale via Port Everglades Inlet.
Five of us piled into the car rental
Bill chauffered us to West
Marine, Sailor Man & Boat Owners Warehouse, where I bought I fishing
rod! Then it was off to Target & ABC
Liquors. It was already 1615 hrs.; we
rushed back to pay our extra day marina stay & Bill graciously drove Graeme
to a nearby gas station to fill his diesel jerry cans X 3 after emptying them
into the boat tank. We had our get
–together on ‘Twomorrows’; we planned our leave soon after 0900 hrs. in
accordance with the bridge opening restrictions (closed 0730- 0900 &
1630-1800 hrs.). A late supper &
internet till late in the comfort station.
No moon as the quarter moon was only visible during the morning
hours. A mix of clear & partial
cloudy skies. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Fri. Dec. 7, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 66:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination: Fort Lauderdale (1067) to Miami Beach, Venetian
Causeway south of Belle Isle (Mile 1088.4)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure: 0910 hrs. Arrival: 1600 hrs. Distance: 21.4 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds: SE 6-12K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather: sunny, clouds in the periphery & hot,
H=80F & L= 70’s<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSNJau114KioirF2B2OiFYlh6hppp8cKlo-Z3vrNJXhCcEcgltj2je0WebYWkSPyzQFYkHtaxW0GI2Wl_VbmIFhyphenhyphenHzCDeeBM92rt-gD2Bd9DOzl32lMf6pRRdcvM8VHGI-6pJHzD27tqc/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSNJau114KioirF2B2OiFYlh6hppp8cKlo-Z3vrNJXhCcEcgltj2je0WebYWkSPyzQFYkHtaxW0GI2Wl_VbmIFhyphenhyphenHzCDeeBM92rt-gD2Bd9DOzl32lMf6pRRdcvM8VHGI-6pJHzD27tqc/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Bye! Bye!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We
had our last land shower for a while, the last go at internet for ? who
knows. What a pleasant surprise; Lee
arrived & helped us off the dock as we were saying goodbye to Terri &
Bill. With their car rental they will be
driving home Dec. 16, meeting their new granddaughter who will be hopefully
home from the hospital by then & return on the 28<sup>th</sup> to
recommence their sail adventure. The
current seemed outbound but not a big factor after all when we backed out of
the slip. The restricted opening of the
bridges were over at 0900 hrs. & now opened on request; it was an easy
going as there was no traffic in the opposite direction. From the New River into the ICW within the
channel, heavily favouring the green side the keel hit & scrapped hard on
the bottom. ? damage, checked the compartment where the keep bolts are located
& all was dry. We met ‘Truansea’ north of the bridge as planned waiting for
the 1000 hrs. opening of the 17<sup>th</sup> Ave. Bridge (bascule- 56 ft.)
leading out to Port Everglades Inlet.
Lee drove to the marina & saw the 3 of us off, ‘Twomorrows’,
‘Truansea’ & ‘Sweet Chariot Too’. We
met a huge cargo ship at the mouth of the inlet & to port of the entrance
was an obvious sailing race. I think I
have been in the protected waters too long; we had to reacquaint ourselves to
the pitching up & slamming down action on the waves directly on our
bow. The 2-3 footers with a mix of
whitecrested 4-6 footers made us feel like a miniscule cork bobbling along in a
vast body of water. The deck, dodger,
windows of every direction were all drenched in salt water. So much for the hours & hours of
meticulous cleaning. At first we headed
further from shore to see if it was calmer, but not & in fact we hit the
Gulf Stream, another factor against us & our boat speed was only 3.5K. The Gulf Stream was < than 3 miles from
shore. Mark suggested we change our
direction to toward the shore, out of the Stream & our boat speed increased
(5.5K)- a good decision even with the waves crashing the port bow, leaving the
shoreline of Lauderdale & travelling along the shoreline of Miami, lined
with miles of skyscrapers. We turned
into Miami Government Cut, past Fisher & Lummus Islands & directed
south of Dodge Island & the Port of Miami, away from the cruise ships, as
the Main Channel was closed. Then
through the channel markers, turning to starboard, under the MacArthur Causeway
(fixed-65 ft.), to starboard just before the Venetian Causeway, through some
shallow water, past Flagler Memorial Monument Island to a suitable anchoring
spot to the east avoiding a cable & pipeline area; we milled around for a
bit locating that suitable spot as there already were enough boats anchored. As we came into Government Cut the sky filled
with threatening clouds that dissipated; we welcomed a good rain to clean off
the salt from our once pristine boats.
As darkness approached, the lights of the city, many which include
Christmas lights even on the cranes, light up the partially cloudy sky. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijntKoyKtaoBG4DIxDrKX-wtBszlLc1yTdiuOZZWYn5WO7VcIWwu8ZleBYymM8kVDirD8fnfddGFVpTclRiNC3L6cu1YOw7FSyW7eEQVEcpFZBXUy7UOKHCccV_wOr22fMY68bXOUcY-fB/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijntKoyKtaoBG4DIxDrKX-wtBszlLc1yTdiuOZZWYn5WO7VcIWwu8ZleBYymM8kVDirD8fnfddGFVpTclRiNC3L6cu1YOw7FSyW7eEQVEcpFZBXUy7UOKHCccV_wOr22fMY68bXOUcY-fB/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+028.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Every kind of boat activity you can imagine in Port Everglades Inlet</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sat. Dec. 8, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 67:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> South Beach,
Miami Beach (Mile 1088.4)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> didn’t pay any attention<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> partly sunny
& cloudy, hot & humid, H= 82F & L=74F<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAp0sPWjsZGR-LIJ2qnC2ARqz1IZfGFjA1QzUiWvmPyfyTb-xmbHjOVpEkvg-Qr9LpHH3go92K_XDN1uv8-FHiN3Aw4LGJ94MtrTnKjAO9qANztxloy2TaGuOZwBRJNrEg6Or-N0M5mgR/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAp0sPWjsZGR-LIJ2qnC2ARqz1IZfGFjA1QzUiWvmPyfyTb-xmbHjOVpEkvg-Qr9LpHH3go92K_XDN1uv8-FHiN3Aw4LGJ94MtrTnKjAO9qANztxloy2TaGuOZwBRJNrEg6Or-N0M5mgR/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+039.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Collins Canal</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf577LuhzTiATVN5h8vJrzIKtZdBdxKFCiUmizv4nhsyI7XVnrIq1zfMw8evp8xmiN54dvh1-5xLp7TNk1n4ozV7r-g5DsjW_m52Kz31_g19GDuQdmsVwbmdpAWEb9Aj6mqeHtJKfNhfao/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf577LuhzTiATVN5h8vJrzIKtZdBdxKFCiUmizv4nhsyI7XVnrIq1zfMw8evp8xmiN54dvh1-5xLp7TNk1n4ozV7r-g5DsjW_m52Kz31_g19GDuQdmsVwbmdpAWEb9Aj6mqeHtJKfNhfao/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+037.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Doing laundry outdoors on Collins Canal</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">‘Truansea’
decided to move down to No Name Harbor, Key Biscayne & likely cross to
Bimini tomorrow; there seems to be a good & lengthy window with SE to ESE
9-14K winds till Wed. On our way to
shore at about 0930 hrs. we went & said our goodbyes to them. Lynn’s meds finally arrived late yesterday at
Cooley’s Landing Marina (Fort Lauderdale) & arrangements were organized
that Terri & Bill would drive them down today, a 30 min. drive from
Lauderdale, for the price of lunch at “Burgers & Brew”, corner of Bay St.
& 18<sup>th</sup> Ave. at 1300 hrs.
We dinghied to Collins Canal which has a new wall on the northern side
from below water up & a small but new dinghy dock across the street from
the old Publix on Dade Blvd. (new spectacular Publix on Bay St.). We walked along Dade Blvd. to Meridian, home
of Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center & Holocaust Memorial to Miami Beach
Convention Hall (Art/Basel Show), to the BB&T Bank (corner of 17<sup>th</sup>
Ave. & Michigan), Lincoln Road Mall (pedestrians only), TD Bank (east end
of mall at Washington), Botanical Gardens (Convention Center Dr. & Dade
Blvd.) & then lunch meeting time.
Afterwards we wished Terri & Bill a Merry Christmas & Happy New
Year & dinghied east the rest of the way up Collins Canal then north on
Indian Creek to just past Arthur Godfrey Rd.
Indian Creek to the east runs parallel to Indian Creek Dr. (1way south)
& Collins Ave. (2 way traffic), home of highrise hotels eg. Fountainbleau
& apartments/condos & to the west, homes line the canal. On our way home we stopped at old Publix,
well stocked & busy today. We
dropped in on Lynn & Larry & watched the cruise ships leave & at
dusk the colourful lights of the buildings in Miami (mainland). I did some prepatory reading for passage
across to the Bahamas & we checked in with NOAA weather on VHF; we hope the
weather window remains good through Wed. as predicted. A partly cloudy sky after a slightly orangey
sunset through a break in heavy, rain threatening clouds to the west.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Sun. Dec. 9, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 68:</span> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination: </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Miami Beach
(Mile 1088.4)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S 5-10K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> sunny with
occasional cloudy period, hot & humid, H= 84F & L= 72<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7yxURaygxhUcfDrZpKm2qR1W9H3rqfJZX2J9Kh4Acvyfqc53t1xMhyphenhyphenyghj5fq2ehU8qrpMWk_wqguOnFWvzPBFBqcxV6ZKn-bJl4141vsRyjRMVReiIMBMHajLojhyphenhyphenal8ssxfqMfurHf/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7yxURaygxhUcfDrZpKm2qR1W9H3rqfJZX2J9Kh4Acvyfqc53t1xMhyphenhyphenyghj5fq2ehU8qrpMWk_wqguOnFWvzPBFBqcxV6ZKn-bJl4141vsRyjRMVReiIMBMHajLojhyphenhyphenal8ssxfqMfurHf/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+043.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Iguanas+++ along Collins Canal & Indian Creek</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was quite warm during the night & already at sunrise, making one feel very
lethargic. At about 1000 hrs. we took
the dinghy for a couple hours exploring Biscayne Waterway to Surprise Lake,
then into Indian Creek & returning via Collins Canal tour we had done
yesterday; it was hot. We tied the
dinghy up at the old Publix dock & walked along Meridian to Lincoln Rd.
Mall, then east towards the TD Bank on Washington, as Graeme wanted to check a discrepancy he noted on his transaction
record from yesterday; the bank itself was open but the teller stated he would
have to call Customer Service. A couple
of detours: (1) Tesla car store, totally electric car, $57,000 US; the young
lady was very informative & also employed at Apple Store & answered
some of Graeme’s questions & directed us to #2 detour, huge Kilwin’s ice
cream cone each (lunch), (3) AT&T Store that do not sell unlocked MiFi, but
did see the unit available from Amazon.com ($30.00) with no contract, just
month to month plan at $50.00 for 5 GB.
We walked down Washington to 22<sup>nd</sup> Ave. & located the
library, then along the walking path adjacent to the south side of Collins
Canal to our dinghy. Graeme phoned
Scotiabank Customer Service & everything in order, but did recommend
transactions via Bank of America (no user fee).
Prior to supper, we discussed plans, winds & weather for the next
few days with Lynn & Larry. It was
decided to check NOAA in the am as well as Chris Parker at 0630 hrs., do our
last land projects, then move down to Crandon Park for fuel in the pm &
anchor in No Name Harbor. 0300 hrs.
departure across to Bimini planned for Tues.
A lovely sunset behind the tall highrises & skyscrapers of the
shoreline of Miami (mainland). A mostly
clear sky with a few clouds, stars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mon. Dec. 10, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 69: </span></span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Miami Beach
(Mile 1088.4) to outside of Hurricane Harbor (Mile 1095)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 1350 hrs. <i>Arrival:</i> 1530 hrs. <i>Distance:</i> 6.6 SM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> SE 10-12K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> partially
sunny with dark clouds especially to west where a storm was quidkly advancing
apparently up by West Palm Beach, hot & humid, H= 83F & L=70<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiHJnPoAmYGi5-N4MEoRFiBArvbq8xL9iAXwwsckaeP8RNVllyyzIv5BpDkpHbz4G_DHV-WbUl5M5SSrU63-I8WWQVZfkpuuBXnYNenvZag0XA6pOqfNXVRVlsGqQdFXYCxGqIJMwKQA4/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiHJnPoAmYGi5-N4MEoRFiBArvbq8xL9iAXwwsckaeP8RNVllyyzIv5BpDkpHbz4G_DHV-WbUl5M5SSrU63-I8WWQVZfkpuuBXnYNenvZag0XA6pOqfNXVRVlsGqQdFXYCxGqIJMwKQA4/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+051.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Miami Proper</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Last
minute tasks were planned ASAP this am as we plan to cross in the wee hours of
the morning. Our weather window was
diminishing with each passing day. Larry
listened to Chris Parker at 0630 hrs. re his report re the Bahamas
weather. We listened to NOAA & tried
for Chris’ 0900 hrs. Florida report but nil.
We emptied 1 water jerry can & 1 diesel can into the boat
tanks. So our first trip to shore was to
refill them & get rid of our garbage; water at the police marine dock &
diesel at the Shell, just passed the 1<sup>st</sup> bridge on Collins Canal but
before & opposite side of the canal from the Publix dock. 2nd trip was to the new Publix on Bay
St. We went & said our goodbyes to
Larry, but Lynn was sleeping & gave them the small Christmas package we put
together rather quickly. As we were
going our separate ways for a bit, I was unable to wish Larry a Merry Christmas
as I choked up as I did not know how long “for a bit” might be. Once the dinghy & motor were lifted &
tied down, we up anchored & motored out to rejoin the ICW at R50 &
G57. Under the Richenbecker Bridge &
Virginia Key, we passed Crandon Park Marina, run by the City of Miami, at the
northern end of Key Biscayne. We
anchored past G3 on the south end of Key Biscayne up by shore before entering
Hurricane Harbor anchorage; 15 ft. water & 100 ft. chain. I tried to use my US cell (Tracfone) to make a
reservation in Bimini but no service to the Bahamas; I phoned Larry re our
arrival & requested he make our reservation to Bimini Blue Water Marina for
us. We dropped the dinghy & scooted
to Hurricane Harbor Marina (private) but unable to sell us any fuel. Onto Crandon Park Marina, a long distance made
longer by having to clear the shallow water of West Point. We got back just in time to light our anchor
light & lift the dinghy & motor again, this time strapping it down for
our crossing to the Bahamas. Very
unpleasant sky & clouds over the mainland.
I called Mom re our crossing tomorrow & also received a call from
Maureen. And wouldn’t you know it, I
lost part of a tooth. Partially clear
& cloudy skies above, a few stars & bright lights from the shores of
Miami, Dinner Key & Coral Gables on the mainland. There was only 1 sailboat anchored with us; I
wondered how many boats were inside the Hurricane Harbor anchorage or in No
Name Harbor. How many boats will be
crossing when we leave at 0300 hrs.?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tues. Dec. 11, 2012—<span style="color: #0070c0;">Day 70:</span></span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Destination:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Hurricane
Harbor (Mile 1095) to North Bimini, Bahamas <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Departure:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 0630
hrs.--> see below <i>Arrival:</i>
1510 hrs.
<i>Distance:</i> 50+ SM<b>
<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Winds:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> S 8-11K increased to 10-14K<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Weather:</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> heavy rain
clouds above us, clearer skies appeared to south & east, warm & muggy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVD9qaDlj7cvmApXlsgaMAT2w_h3wQiTpcjn-5POeHzJ6YKVvepLJQub80dCnL8-oVTIeg9e-nvdDxbpdYim8gGFpqEoQ4yMpT0aCRQ7pfR2iplv6Kc4WdflD3ZRQdCsvuvBotOZLzfdHO/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVD9qaDlj7cvmApXlsgaMAT2w_h3wQiTpcjn-5POeHzJ6YKVvepLJQub80dCnL8-oVTIeg9e-nvdDxbpdYim8gGFpqEoQ4yMpT0aCRQ7pfR2iplv6Kc4WdflD3ZRQdCsvuvBotOZLzfdHO/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+053.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">No Name Harbor Lighthouse</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigipZHUljR3j2aUVDRomyJfxkjr7KaGHFSQ7b6vx0u5d5eNA8xwu5o9Zu47Xi69GyQTMp2wE60Knxl3GrdKpXhJUwZWkS2DTECnzqlpi64NE2imtA1CCwvrtPN83D5TlItoJJphLAcT1-P/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigipZHUljR3j2aUVDRomyJfxkjr7KaGHFSQ7b6vx0u5d5eNA8xwu5o9Zu47Xi69GyQTMp2wE60Knxl3GrdKpXhJUwZWkS2DTECnzqlpi64NE2imtA1CCwvrtPN83D5TlItoJJphLAcT1-P/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+055.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Meet Auto Helm-- the best, easiest, non demanding driver!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAkXf2spE0Ah2TekS1kADAcmohFOCDfMgPccj7wui3iljEZZ1N9ebGkNqOPqi5qWVjb01mAE8t0S6TaxiFkKVIXYGm70j7E8WziU8LUWbz945AcgwhAfsdqGXYE6NZ4fi7jalZDjs-DbDU/s1600/2012-12-07+to+12+056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAkXf2spE0Ah2TekS1kADAcmohFOCDfMgPccj7wui3iljEZZ1N9ebGkNqOPqi5qWVjb01mAE8t0S6TaxiFkKVIXYGm70j7E8WziU8LUWbz945AcgwhAfsdqGXYE6NZ4fi7jalZDjs-DbDU/s320/2012-12-07+to+12+056.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Bahamas at last!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A
roller coaster ride of emotions!</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Do we
go or not?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We woke at the pre-planned
time of 0200 hrs.; the wind generator was whirling away good.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Winds were SE-S.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">NOAA weather alert repeatedly announced of
high winds, lightning & thunder when we turned VHF 01 on.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Winds at Fowey Rock were registering 23K;
lightning in the clouds all around us.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We decided to delay our departure.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We slept till 0400 hrs. but weather alert still in affect; winds at
Fowey Rock decreased to 17K; calm at the anchorage but winds light & now
from N to NW.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Confusing, NOT good
direction now for a crossing; what gives?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Is the incoming tide having this affect?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Delayed again; slept.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">At 0500
hrs. no weather alert, no more lightning, calm, SSE direction to winds returned
& light</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">& NOAA weather report
was unchanged; the other sailboat anchored beside us was gone.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We tried Chris Parker (weather guru in this
area + Bahamas) on our portable SSB at 0600 hrs. but nothing; I believe the
batteries were too low.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A small
breakfast & we decided to test the waters; if not favourable we would
return.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We exited via the Florida
Channel hugging the shore, pushing against a ½ to 1K current; sighted several
boats in No Name Harbor.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Barely 2 NM
from shore & we were already in the Gulf Stream.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The water temps were 80 to 84.7F; we were
pushing a 2K current the entire time (Gulf Stream was to assist).</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Winds were south at 12K when we set the jenny
& cruised along at 6.2-6.9K on a broad reach & 7- 7.2K for the last 2
hours. when the winds increased to 10-14K; 2-4 ft. seas with an occasional
bigger roller & increased the latter part of the route.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We were pointing higher than need be for our
waypoint so were able to ease sails near the end.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Outside the channel we tried hailing the marina
on both VHF 16 & 68 but heard no reply to switch to 71.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Cautiously & very slowly we entered the
new R & G not numbered markers at low tide & seeing there were no other
markers visually guided ourselves until R8 which also welcomed boaters to Alice
Town, North Bimini.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We located the
marina, hailed them but saw no one; a Canadian transient happened to come out
his motor yacht & ran to get the 1 & only staff.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We chose the side & slip we wanted, into
the wind, but made a very poor entrance.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Quarantine flag up, papers filled in, to Immigration first to the south
of the marina (100 days then offered to call supervisor & received 160
days), then new Customs Office now located close to Bimini Big Game Resort
& Yacht Club ($300.00).</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We bought a
Bahamian phone; $50.00 basic Samsung + $20.00 SIM card + $5.00 minutes card to
activate the phone + $20.00 of additional minutes = $100.00.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We paid for a one night stay for now $1.00/
ft. ($36.00); water is $0.60/ gallon, electricity= $10.00/ day & WiFi=
$10.00 for length of stay.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">I first
phoned Mom that we crossed successfully, thanking her for her prayers, then
Larry who had moved to Crandon Park Marina into a slip </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">($0.65/
ft. with electricity, shower & laundry facilities, gas, diesel &
pumpout + mooring field ? cost). </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Lightning seen to the NW.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">After supper a nice feeling shower.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We both were feeling very tired but need to
wake early in the morning to hear Chris Parker at 0630 hrs. to make our next big decision as the
weather is deteriorating in a day.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
Graeme & Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525276505074520086noreply@blogger.com2