Nov 23 and 24th- finally crossed into Fl in heavy fog. We now leave the sulfer laden air behind (a product of all the paper mills that seem so prolific along this stretch). After meandering thru the saltmarshes of Georgia this section of Fl is rather plain. Miles of canal cut thru the woods finally open up into the Tolomato River which brings us thru St. Augistine and on to Datona.
Nov 25 and 26th- The waters open up in this stretch and steady north winds give us two days of great sailing. Decided to head into the Canaveral Canal and spend Thanksgiving in the marina there. We were invited to join group of live aboards having a dock party/thanksgiving feast and we spent a pleasant evening enjoying their hospitality.
Fri, Nov 27th- Stayed around to watch the space shuttle land(We didn't have a choice since all the drawbridges are closed during launches and landings and we couldn't go anywhere) Had a good sail to Melborne with another day of north winds.
Sat-Motored to Ft Pierce under cool blue skies where we anchored in a protected cove on Hutchinson Island.
Tomorrow will be a short day to Jensen Beach where we will dock the boat for a while and move ashore. This will bring a close to this leg of our journey. We have been traveling for ten weeks and have covered nearly 2000 miles. The trip has gone very smoothly and was much more relaxing than last years. Chris is looking foreward to traveling north for Christmas but for the next couple of weeks I'm sure we will be busy getting 32 Palm Circle in shape after being empty all summer.
Look for our next journey "On to the Bahamas" to start once we return south after New Years.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
on thru Georgia
Nov 14/15/16- two days of motoring thru the marshes of South Carolina has brought us to Beaufort SC where we have mail waiting. Spent 2 days biking about this beautiful old town before moving on by mid day Monday.
Nov 17 thru 19th- Arrived Jeckyl Island late wed and spent Thursday biking about. Sunny but the air was a little cool to spend much time on the beach. Chris did humor me with biking on the wide beach (she doesn't see the novelty in this but I think it's great).
Nov 20 thru 22- We have enjoyed the past two days exploring Cumberland Is. National Park. A side trip up the St Marys river brought us to the village of St Marys where we spent a day exploring this charming town. We debated about staying here for Thanksgiving but decided it was time to move on. Each year the townspeople put on a feast at the local hotel for the traveling boaters. The townspeople supply the turkeys and each boater brings a dish. It has turned into a weeklong event and last year 200 boaters attended.
Nov 17 thru 19th- Arrived Jeckyl Island late wed and spent Thursday biking about. Sunny but the air was a little cool to spend much time on the beach. Chris did humor me with biking on the wide beach (she doesn't see the novelty in this but I think it's great).
Nov 20 thru 22- We have enjoyed the past two days exploring Cumberland Is. National Park. A side trip up the St Marys river brought us to the village of St Marys where we spent a day exploring this charming town. We debated about staying here for Thanksgiving but decided it was time to move on. Each year the townspeople put on a feast at the local hotel for the traveling boaters. The townspeople supply the turkeys and each boater brings a dish. It has turned into a weeklong event and last year 200 boaters attended.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
On thru South Carolina
Friday, Nov 6th- Bright sun and a cool north breeze carried us 24 miles down the Cape Fear River to the historic village of Southport NC where we tied up to the free town dock. Have decided our 3 house batteries are failing us so I biked to Walmart and hauled replacements back via taxi. As I was unloading them a neighbor came out of his house and offered his pickup. Said he felt bad we had to take a cab. Took him up on his offer to return old batteries and do some shopping. It is amazing how often we experience this type of hospitality.
Sat- After a morning walk along the waterfront and downtown we are off to Calabash SC. where we spent a quiet night at anchor.
Sun-On thru Myrtle Beach on what I consider the least attractive section of the trip. The waterway is cut thru a rocky stretch with high banks. without anywhere to stop to visit the town except a few high priced marinas. After motoring 50 miles we anchored off a sandy beach up Thoroughfare Creek where we were invited along with another couple aboard Sanctuary to a potluck supper aboard the 45 foot catamaran Just Imagine. Both couples have called their boats home for a few years and it was a wonderful evening sharing stories.
Mon and Tues.- As we head down the beautiful Waccama River our plan was to stop in Georgetown for a day or two but with hurricane Ida heading our way we decided to press on south. The Ben Sawyer bridge above Charleston won't open in winds over 35 mph and we wanted to get thru before the winds built. Anchored in Weems Creek after a 63 mile day then arrived in Charleston by lunchtime where we plan to wait out the weather. Biked for groceries and some sightseeing most of the afternoon.
Wed- Even though Ida has been downgraded to a tropical storm it still brought rain by the bucketful all day. By evening the winds built and are expected to stay at gale force for a couple of days. This anchorage is definitely not my favorite as the tidal currents run fast and it is a long dingy ride across the Ashley River to town. We were stuck here in May for 5 days with the same kind of weather and if Charleston wasn't such a beautiful city I would hesitate to recommend anchoring here.
Sat- After a morning walk along the waterfront and downtown we are off to Calabash SC. where we spent a quiet night at anchor.
Sun-On thru Myrtle Beach on what I consider the least attractive section of the trip. The waterway is cut thru a rocky stretch with high banks. without anywhere to stop to visit the town except a few high priced marinas. After motoring 50 miles we anchored off a sandy beach up Thoroughfare Creek where we were invited along with another couple aboard Sanctuary to a potluck supper aboard the 45 foot catamaran Just Imagine. Both couples have called their boats home for a few years and it was a wonderful evening sharing stories.
Mon and Tues.- As we head down the beautiful Waccama River our plan was to stop in Georgetown for a day or two but with hurricane Ida heading our way we decided to press on south. The Ben Sawyer bridge above Charleston won't open in winds over 35 mph and we wanted to get thru before the winds built. Anchored in Weems Creek after a 63 mile day then arrived in Charleston by lunchtime where we plan to wait out the weather. Biked for groceries and some sightseeing most of the afternoon.
Wed- Even though Ida has been downgraded to a tropical storm it still brought rain by the bucketful all day. By evening the winds built and are expected to stay at gale force for a couple of days. This anchorage is definitely not my favorite as the tidal currents run fast and it is a long dingy ride across the Ashley River to town. We were stuck here in May for 5 days with the same kind of weather and if Charleston wasn't such a beautiful city I would hesitate to recommend anchoring here.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Bogue Sound
The past few days have brought clear skies along with north winds. Days have been in the upper 60's but bright sun has kept us comfortable. We have been able to motor sail down much of the open water of Bogue Sound .
Tues Nov 3rd-Sail much of the 45 miles anchoring for the night at Camp Lejune's Mile Hammock Bay. Had new friends from S/V Hook over for dinner. This young family Steve and Kirsten, along with their daughters Maddy and Emma have traveled from Maine and we have shared a number of the same anchorages along the way.
Wed and Thurs-Sail in sunny skies with a north wind 41 miles to Wrightsville Beach. We missed this spot on our last trip and enjoyed biking about and spending a sunny 70 degree day on the wide beaches. Biking on the beach was a first for us and the hard flat sand was perfect for this.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Outerbanks pictures
The lighthouse is on Ocracoke Is. The ship "Elizabeth II" was at Roanoke Is.
This lighthouse which also contained a museum was also on Roanoke Is.
Our boat "Andros" at a free town dock at Roanoke Is.
Our boat "Andros" at a free town dock at Roanoke Is.Friday, October 30, 2009
Side trip to the Outer Banks
On this trip we had planned to explore areas we missed last winter
and the Outer Banks of North Carolina was at the top of the list.
Our plan is to transit the Ablemarle and Pamlico Sounds then rejoin
the ICW at Oriental.
Tues Oct 27th- The winds have veered to the north and an exodus of
boats is taking place in the early morning fog. We waited for the
fog to lift and were off by 8. Had a great sail down the wide
Pasquotank River into Ablemarle Sound and on to historic Roanoake
Island. As we entered the protected harbor after a 47 mile run we
were suprised to see the only boat at anchor was the ketch
Moonshadow belonging to Wes and Snow whom we snorkeled with in the
Tortugas last winter. We tied to a free town dock along the
waterfront boardwalk and found Snow nearby busy weaving her
hammocks. She and Wes joined us aboard later and we had a great
time catching up.
Wed-After a rainy start the day cleared and temps climbed into the
80's. Snow took us on a tour of the Outer Banks (she grew up here
and was a great guide). In the afternoon we took a long bike ride
to the Fort Raleigh National Park, site of the historic lost
colony.
Thurs- Headed out at daybreak in strong north winds for our 70 mile
run down the Pamlico Sound to Ocracoke. This is a huge body of
water at least 80 miles long and over 30 miles wide near Cape
Hatteras and the rough seas kept us at the wheel all day. Our
autopilot is useless in big waves but a great crewmember when it's
calm. Arrived in the protected harbor (Silver Lake) at 5PM and anchored in calm waters
among 5 other boats.
Fri- Sunny but still cool, biked around the area ending up with a long walk on the beautiful wide ocean beach.
Sat- Sunny and warm, our first real summerlike day. Great sailing all day as the wind built and we kept reducing sail. By afternoon it was blowing at 20 kts and we had double reefed main and just a bit of jib. Covered 40 miles before anchoring in the calm waters of Broad Creek. Warm evening under a nearly full moon.
Sun- Headed out in thick fog on glassy water. After about an hour the wind was howling as the temps dropped 20 degrees and we ran for cover into Oriental Harbor. Spent the afternoon wandering about town. Rainy and cold late afternoon. I bought a few needed items at a great marine consignment shop.
Mon-Cloudy and cool, We are now back on the ICW, motor sail 23 miles to Beaufort, anchor in town creek, walk around town.
and the Outer Banks of North Carolina was at the top of the list.
Our plan is to transit the Ablemarle and Pamlico Sounds then rejoin
the ICW at Oriental.
Tues Oct 27th- The winds have veered to the north and an exodus of
boats is taking place in the early morning fog. We waited for the
fog to lift and were off by 8. Had a great sail down the wide
Pasquotank River into Ablemarle Sound and on to historic Roanoake
Island. As we entered the protected harbor after a 47 mile run we
were suprised to see the only boat at anchor was the ketch
Moonshadow belonging to Wes and Snow whom we snorkeled with in the
Tortugas last winter. We tied to a free town dock along the
waterfront boardwalk and found Snow nearby busy weaving her
hammocks. She and Wes joined us aboard later and we had a great
time catching up.
Wed-After a rainy start the day cleared and temps climbed into the
80's. Snow took us on a tour of the Outer Banks (she grew up here
and was a great guide). In the afternoon we took a long bike ride
to the Fort Raleigh National Park, site of the historic lost
colony.
Thurs- Headed out at daybreak in strong north winds for our 70 mile
run down the Pamlico Sound to Ocracoke. This is a huge body of
water at least 80 miles long and over 30 miles wide near Cape
Hatteras and the rough seas kept us at the wheel all day. Our
autopilot is useless in big waves but a great crewmember when it's
calm. Arrived in the protected harbor (Silver Lake) at 5PM and anchored in calm waters
among 5 other boats.
Fri- Sunny but still cool, biked around the area ending up with a long walk on the beautiful wide ocean beach.
Sat- Sunny and warm, our first real summerlike day. Great sailing all day as the wind built and we kept reducing sail. By afternoon it was blowing at 20 kts and we had double reefed main and just a bit of jib. Covered 40 miles before anchoring in the calm waters of Broad Creek. Warm evening under a nearly full moon.
Sun- Headed out in thick fog on glassy water. After about an hour the wind was howling as the temps dropped 20 degrees and we ran for cover into Oriental Harbor. Spent the afternoon wandering about town. Rainy and cold late afternoon. I bought a few needed items at a great marine consignment shop.
Mon-Cloudy and cool, We are now back on the ICW, motor sail 23 miles to Beaufort, anchor in town creek, walk around town.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Dismal Swamp, North Carolina
Fri,Oct 23rd- Sunny and warm, bike to town for a few supplies(groceries and kerosene). Met a local fisherman on the dock who gave us 2 nice seatrout, which after filleting fed us for 2 nights of excellent dinners. Motor thru the canal to the NC visitor center docks. We were the 13th boat to arrive and we were rafted 4 deep.(the dock has room for 4 boats) Met many of the boaters at happy hour ashore. (It may sound like all we do is party each night but this is the only time we get to interact with with other people. We have met many interesting boaters thru these gatherings and get to share a lot of information this way.)
Sat- sunny and warm hi near 80. Borrowed real bikes from the visitors center(our folding bikes have 20" wheels) and rode to the next town on a paved bike trail. Many boats headed out early but another batch came in so we had a dozen boats for the evening gab fest.
Sun-Motor to Elizabety City where the town supplies free docks and a wine and cheese party each night. There were at least 20 boats docked ,many that we have been traveling with for at least part of the trip.
Monday- strong n-e winds kept everyone holed up here. The 2 boats that ventured out into Ablemarle sound were back within a couple of hours because of the rough seas. We biked for propane and a few supplies, Chris got caught in the rain and came back cold and wet just in time to catch the end of the Rose Buddies coctail party.
Sat- sunny and warm hi near 80. Borrowed real bikes from the visitors center(our folding bikes have 20" wheels) and rode to the next town on a paved bike trail. Many boats headed out early but another batch came in so we had a dozen boats for the evening gab fest.
Sun-Motor to Elizabety City where the town supplies free docks and a wine and cheese party each night. There were at least 20 boats docked ,many that we have been traveling with for at least part of the trip.
Monday- strong n-e winds kept everyone holed up here. The 2 boats that ventured out into Ablemarle sound were back within a couple of hours because of the rough seas. We biked for propane and a few supplies, Chris got caught in the rain and came back cold and wet just in time to catch the end of the Rose Buddies coctail party.
On thru the Lower Chesapeake
Wed- Nasty weather(double barrel nor'easter) predicted starting tomorrow so we headed back to Annapolis, mix of sailing and motor. Caught 2 nice bluefish on the trip across. Anchor once again in Harness Creek where we plan to leave the boat to travel north for the weekend.
Thurs- Holed up in boat during heavy rain and cold(mid 40's) all day. The combination of our new propane heater, trawler lamp and a lot of baking on Chris' part is keeping the boat toasty even though it's hard to keep the condesation on the cold surfaces under control.
Fri, Sat,Sun- Rented car and drive to Rochester for my niece Caryn's wedding. Cold and rainy. We enjoyed seeing Kate and Alli, also my brother David and sister Ellen and family. We stayed at Chris' sisters and had a quick visit at Chris' brothers. Very nice wedding and reception.
Mon- return rental car and did a little shopping. Still cold but no rain. Enjoyed cocktails with 2 neighboring boats.
Tues- Time to move on even though the winds are calm. Motor south 51 miles to Solomons Island.
Wed Oct 21st- Sunny and warmer but still no wind, Motor to Jackson Creek(Deltaville Va), invited neighboring boat "Perseverance" aboard for happy hour. Turns out we had many sailing friends in common from last year and we had a great evening swapping stories.
Thurs- Sunny and hot(finally), Motor into headwinds to all the conjestion of Norfolk and Hampton Roads harbors and on to a free town dock in South Norfolk. This is the point where we leave the open waters of the Chesapeake behind and enter the protected ICW. We get a chance to travel without paying quite as close attention to the weather. We have covered about 850 miles so far and are looking foreward to warmer weather.
Thurs- Holed up in boat during heavy rain and cold(mid 40's) all day. The combination of our new propane heater, trawler lamp and a lot of baking on Chris' part is keeping the boat toasty even though it's hard to keep the condesation on the cold surfaces under control.
Fri, Sat,Sun- Rented car and drive to Rochester for my niece Caryn's wedding. Cold and rainy. We enjoyed seeing Kate and Alli, also my brother David and sister Ellen and family. We stayed at Chris' sisters and had a quick visit at Chris' brothers. Very nice wedding and reception.
Mon- return rental car and did a little shopping. Still cold but no rain. Enjoyed cocktails with 2 neighboring boats.
Tues- Time to move on even though the winds are calm. Motor south 51 miles to Solomons Island.
Wed Oct 21st- Sunny and warmer but still no wind, Motor to Jackson Creek(Deltaville Va), invited neighboring boat "Perseverance" aboard for happy hour. Turns out we had many sailing friends in common from last year and we had a great evening swapping stories.
Thurs- Sunny and hot(finally), Motor into headwinds to all the conjestion of Norfolk and Hampton Roads harbors and on to a free town dock in South Norfolk. This is the point where we leave the open waters of the Chesapeake behind and enter the protected ICW. We get a chance to travel without paying quite as close attention to the weather. We have covered about 850 miles so far and are looking foreward to warmer weather.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Upper Chesapeake Bay
As we make our way onto the upper bay we are amazed once again at the beauty of the area. High forested banks abound with wildlife. Bald eagles circle overhead while deer wander the shoreline in each anchorage. Geese in huge flocks finding their way south seem always anxious to be on the move. Our plan last year was to spend time exploring here but the cold chased us south, so this year we vow once again to get to know the creeks and rivers of the bay a little better.
Thurs, Oct 8th- Chilly morning but bright sun warmed us as we motored south 25 miles to Still Pond on the eastern shore. Explored up the creek until we ran aground in what was charted as 8 ft. Anchor in south end of pond where we were entertained by numerous mature eagles and 2 familes of deer(each with twins) wandering the shore.
Fri-Sunny and much warmer, hi near 80 with strong south winds. Tried beating south but the open waters were to rough for comfort. Anchored in Worten Creek with great protection where we were surrounded by at least a thousand geese. Thankfully they all left before nightfall as the noise was amazing.
Sat-Showery and cool, NW winds at 15-20 swept us 40 miles down the bay past Annapolis where we anchored in Harness Creek, one of our favorite stops from last year. The sky cleared and we enjoyed a great hike thru the beautiful Quiet Waters county park that surrounds us. More deer but no eagles.
Sun-Sunny but cool- Biked into Annapolis where the sailboat show is in progress. The surrounding waters are a real zoo with boats everywhere. Glad we chose our peaceful anchorage. Lunch in town after wandering about.
Mon-Cold and cloudy, sailed and motored across the bay to St Michaels. Caught 2 bluefish along the way. 17 boats in the snug anchorage. Mostly canadiens and one vermonter. Feels like we never left the lake.
Tues-Sunny and warmer, Biked around St Michaels which is a cute historic town turned high class tourist trap. It's saving grace is a great maritime museum. Followed Chris thru numerous pricey shops.
Thurs, Oct 8th- Chilly morning but bright sun warmed us as we motored south 25 miles to Still Pond on the eastern shore. Explored up the creek until we ran aground in what was charted as 8 ft. Anchor in south end of pond where we were entertained by numerous mature eagles and 2 familes of deer(each with twins) wandering the shore.
Fri-Sunny and much warmer, hi near 80 with strong south winds. Tried beating south but the open waters were to rough for comfort. Anchored in Worten Creek with great protection where we were surrounded by at least a thousand geese. Thankfully they all left before nightfall as the noise was amazing.
Sat-Showery and cool, NW winds at 15-20 swept us 40 miles down the bay past Annapolis where we anchored in Harness Creek, one of our favorite stops from last year. The sky cleared and we enjoyed a great hike thru the beautiful Quiet Waters county park that surrounds us. More deer but no eagles.
Sun-Sunny but cool- Biked into Annapolis where the sailboat show is in progress. The surrounding waters are a real zoo with boats everywhere. Glad we chose our peaceful anchorage. Lunch in town after wandering about.
Mon-Cold and cloudy, sailed and motored across the bay to St Michaels. Caught 2 bluefish along the way. 17 boats in the snug anchorage. Mostly canadiens and one vermonter. Feels like we never left the lake.
Tues-Sunny and warmer, Biked around St Michaels which is a cute historic town turned high class tourist trap. It's saving grace is a great maritime museum. Followed Chris thru numerous pricey shops.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Jersey coast to the head of Chesepake Bay
Over the past 10 days we have sailed down the New Jersey shore and back up the Deleware Bay with a stop in South Jersey to visit friends for a few days.
Wed Sept 30- The winds have finally calmed a bit and we headed out early with about a dozen other boats. Lower NY Bay was rough but once we turned south on the ocean we had much calmer waters and a great sail to Barnegat Light anchorage.
Thurs. Weather predicted to turn nasty tomorrow so we got an early start to make Cape May before dark. Great sailing to Atlantic City then wind veered so we had to work into rough seas the next 44 miles. Covered 138 miles in the past 2 days.
Fri- Winds now out of the south so we headed up Delaware Bay to visit our good friends Bob and Mae up the Cohansey River. Winds built to 20mph for great sailing but we were fighting a 2 mph tidal current and the waves were short and steep.
Sat thru Mon- Spent time with the LaRoys who as usual treated us royally. They supplied us with a car and some great meals, Spent the day Sunday striper fishing on the bay with Bob and a friend.
Tues-Motor up the bay and thru the C&D canal to Chesapeake City where we tied up to the free town dock. Biked around town.
Wed- Gale winds but sunny, no one traveling today. Joined about a dozen other boaters for a cocktail party in the park where we were entertained by 2 of the boaters on guitars.
Wed Sept 30- The winds have finally calmed a bit and we headed out early with about a dozen other boats. Lower NY Bay was rough but once we turned south on the ocean we had much calmer waters and a great sail to Barnegat Light anchorage.
Thurs. Weather predicted to turn nasty tomorrow so we got an early start to make Cape May before dark. Great sailing to Atlantic City then wind veered so we had to work into rough seas the next 44 miles. Covered 138 miles in the past 2 days.
Fri- Winds now out of the south so we headed up Delaware Bay to visit our good friends Bob and Mae up the Cohansey River. Winds built to 20mph for great sailing but we were fighting a 2 mph tidal current and the waves were short and steep.
Sat thru Mon- Spent time with the LaRoys who as usual treated us royally. They supplied us with a car and some great meals, Spent the day Sunday striper fishing on the bay with Bob and a friend.
Tues-Motor up the bay and thru the C&D canal to Chesapeake City where we tied up to the free town dock. Biked around town.
Wed- Gale winds but sunny, no one traveling today. Joined about a dozen other boaters for a cocktail party in the park where we were entertained by 2 of the boaters on guitars.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Lake Champlain & Hudson River
Albany, NY
Through one of the 11 locks.
Memorial lighthouse at Crown Pt., NY
Not a lot of wood here!
Through one of the 11 locks.Memorial lighthouse at Crown Pt., NY
Not a lot of wood here!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Back on the Water
After spending the past 2 1/2 months ashore we're back on the water and headed for sunshine, palm trees and warm water. We had a busy summer catching up on neglected projects at home and camp, taking care of medical and dental problems and working on the boat. We relaunched the boat on Sept 14th and headed out on the 19th. Beautiful sunny days and cold nights allowed us to enjoy a great trip down Lake Champlain and thru the locks to Waterford, 150 miles in 3 days.
Sat, Sept 19, 2009- Spent the afternoon at Crown Point where the rededication of the historic lighthouse and monument was taking place. Musical entertainment, numerous speeches and great fireworks made for a memorable first anchorage.
Sun & Mon- On down the Lake and thru the locks. Spent Sun night at lock 9, and Mon at Waterford town docks. Kate joined us for Dinner and a pleasant evening. Past few nights have been cold with lows near 40, but sunny days warmed us quickly inside our greenhouse.
Tues- Short trip thru Albany and on to Castelton Boat Club where Katie met us and helped step our mast to become a sailboat once again. As we passed thru downtown Albany we were greeted by watercannons and a crowd welcoming a number of historic ships into the port. This was a part of the 400 year celebration of the Hudson/Champlain.
Wed- Spent much of the day putting the boat back in order, then on to Coxsackie town dock where we were met by old friends Ron and Janet for dinner and a visit to our old neighborhood.
Thurs- Motor sail with a brisk north wind south 67 miles to Peekskill where we spent the night anchored behind Bannermans Castle, Pollepel Island.
Fri- Another great sailing day, Sail and motor thru NYC and on to Sandy Hook NJ, 77 miles. Anchored behind the breakwater at Atlantic Highlands. Only 3 other boats at anchor, but hundreds on yacht club moorings and docks.
Sat- Weather dosen't look promising for our offshore passage down the Jersey coast. Looks like we will be here until mid week as strong cold fronts pass thru. To town with our bikes, then cocktails aboard with fellow sailors from 2 neighboring boats. Both came from Lake Superior and are on the way south.
Sun- Rain all day, projects aboard.
Mon- Sunny and warmer, low 70's. Biked around the area. Strong cold front came thru late afternoon with gale force winds and blinding rain. Wind stayed up all night but we are very protected in this anchorage. At least 22 boats now in the anchorage, all waiting out the weather to head south.
Tues- Sunny but cool, after a few projects aboard we headed to town for a few items and wifi at the library. Wind still strong but expected to calm down tomorrow giving us 2 days of fair winds so we will prepare to head out in the morning. Hopefully winds will calm down enough so we can get into the fuel dock this afternoon without to much problem.
Sat, Sept 19, 2009- Spent the afternoon at Crown Point where the rededication of the historic lighthouse and monument was taking place. Musical entertainment, numerous speeches and great fireworks made for a memorable first anchorage.
Sun & Mon- On down the Lake and thru the locks. Spent Sun night at lock 9, and Mon at Waterford town docks. Kate joined us for Dinner and a pleasant evening. Past few nights have been cold with lows near 40, but sunny days warmed us quickly inside our greenhouse.
Tues- Short trip thru Albany and on to Castelton Boat Club where Katie met us and helped step our mast to become a sailboat once again. As we passed thru downtown Albany we were greeted by watercannons and a crowd welcoming a number of historic ships into the port. This was a part of the 400 year celebration of the Hudson/Champlain.
Wed- Spent much of the day putting the boat back in order, then on to Coxsackie town dock where we were met by old friends Ron and Janet for dinner and a visit to our old neighborhood.
Thurs- Motor sail with a brisk north wind south 67 miles to Peekskill where we spent the night anchored behind Bannermans Castle, Pollepel Island.
Fri- Another great sailing day, Sail and motor thru NYC and on to Sandy Hook NJ, 77 miles. Anchored behind the breakwater at Atlantic Highlands. Only 3 other boats at anchor, but hundreds on yacht club moorings and docks.
Sat- Weather dosen't look promising for our offshore passage down the Jersey coast. Looks like we will be here until mid week as strong cold fronts pass thru. To town with our bikes, then cocktails aboard with fellow sailors from 2 neighboring boats. Both came from Lake Superior and are on the way south.
Sun- Rain all day, projects aboard.
Mon- Sunny and warmer, low 70's. Biked around the area. Strong cold front came thru late afternoon with gale force winds and blinding rain. Wind stayed up all night but we are very protected in this anchorage. At least 22 boats now in the anchorage, all waiting out the weather to head south.
Tues- Sunny but cool, after a few projects aboard we headed to town for a few items and wifi at the library. Wind still strong but expected to calm down tomorrow giving us 2 days of fair winds so we will prepare to head out in the morning. Hopefully winds will calm down enough so we can get into the fuel dock this afternoon without to much problem.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Home
As we celebrate the close of our journey, we look forward to spending the summer at home and camp. On this last leg from Jensen Beach to Plattsburgh the GPS logged 1840 statute miles. Since starting out in the fall we have logged a total of 4900 miles.
When we first began the trip I was concerned about our 25 year old boat with its little 14hp diesel engine being up to the task. I have to say that both the boat and her crew performed admirably and we look forward to our next adventure this fall.
We have had the boat hauled and it will spend July/Aug on land as we prepare the the next trip. I have a list of work to complete before we head south again in Sept and I have been searching the net for charts and guides to assist us in planning the trip to the Bahamas.
When we first began the trip I was concerned about our 25 year old boat with its little 14hp diesel engine being up to the task. I have to say that both the boat and her crew performed admirably and we look forward to our next adventure this fall.
We have had the boat hauled and it will spend July/Aug on land as we prepare the the next trip. I have a list of work to complete before we head south again in Sept and I have been searching the net for charts and guides to assist us in planning the trip to the Bahamas.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Homeward Bound- Up the Hudson
Sunday June 14th- Anxious to be home we motored thru NY Harbor enjoying the sights. Being a Sunday the ferry and tug traffic was much lighter and the passage less stressful than on our southern journey. We were boarded by the Coast Guard off Manhattan for a safety check and thankfully all was in order. Chris had the wheel during this encounter as I was in the head. I'm still giving her a ribbing over the fact that the only time we were boarded in our 17 years of sailing was while she was in command.
Monday- found us anchored in one of our old haunts at the head of the Rondout Creek in Kingston. Flooding thruout the area had us fighting a swift current much of the day and as we sat at anchor much debris and tree limbs passed us by.
Tues-Tied up for the night at the town dock at Coxsackie (an area we called home for 6 years) where we enjoyed biking around for the afternoon. Along the way we passed the replica of Henry Hudsons ship the Halfmoon.
Wed - a short run to the Castleton Yacht Club where we used their hand crane to unstep our mast in preparation for the low bridges in the Champlain Canal. Kate came down from Albany to help and join us for dinner. All went smoothly and we spent a quiet night on their guest mooring.
Thurs. -Heavy rain much of the day. Motor to Waterford(where the Erie Canal and Hudson River split) and tied up for the night at their free town docks. At least 15 large boats (mostly power) were at the docks waiting for good weather to transit the Erie Canal to the Great Lakes. Many of these boaters were "loopers" (great lakes to Ohio River to Mississippi to Gulf then up east coast) that we had been seeing thru much of our journey.
Fri- On up the Hudson thru the first 7 locks. The current was very swift , in places over 3 mph from all the flooding in the area. The dredging project to clean up the PCB's at Ft Edward is in full swing with numerous barges, cranes, tugs and workboats making passage a challenge. We tied up for the night at the free dock above lock seven and walked around town. The basin at the town park and town docks there are closed during this project but would make a nice stop once the project is done.
Sat - On to Lake Champlain the balance of the locks went smoothly and we anchored in the lee of Fort Ti for a quiet evening.
Sun- motor to Point Bay (south of Essex) Fuel problems again so I pumped tank dry and filled with fresh fuel. Seems OK now but time will tell.
Mon- brought strong north winds and we pounded into steep chop all the way to Plattsburgh. Andros was home!
Monday- found us anchored in one of our old haunts at the head of the Rondout Creek in Kingston. Flooding thruout the area had us fighting a swift current much of the day and as we sat at anchor much debris and tree limbs passed us by.
Tues-Tied up for the night at the town dock at Coxsackie (an area we called home for 6 years) where we enjoyed biking around for the afternoon. Along the way we passed the replica of Henry Hudsons ship the Halfmoon.
Wed - a short run to the Castleton Yacht Club where we used their hand crane to unstep our mast in preparation for the low bridges in the Champlain Canal. Kate came down from Albany to help and join us for dinner. All went smoothly and we spent a quiet night on their guest mooring.
Thurs. -Heavy rain much of the day. Motor to Waterford(where the Erie Canal and Hudson River split) and tied up for the night at their free town docks. At least 15 large boats (mostly power) were at the docks waiting for good weather to transit the Erie Canal to the Great Lakes. Many of these boaters were "loopers" (great lakes to Ohio River to Mississippi to Gulf then up east coast) that we had been seeing thru much of our journey.
Fri- On up the Hudson thru the first 7 locks. The current was very swift , in places over 3 mph from all the flooding in the area. The dredging project to clean up the PCB's at Ft Edward is in full swing with numerous barges, cranes, tugs and workboats making passage a challenge. We tied up for the night at the free dock above lock seven and walked around town. The basin at the town park and town docks there are closed during this project but would make a nice stop once the project is done.
Sat - On to Lake Champlain the balance of the locks went smoothly and we anchored in the lee of Fort Ti for a quiet evening.
Sun- motor to Point Bay (south of Essex) Fuel problems again so I pumped tank dry and filled with fresh fuel. Seems OK now but time will tell.
Mon- brought strong north winds and we pounded into steep chop all the way to Plattsburgh. Andros was home!
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Jersey Coast
Thurs, June 11- Pea soup fog kept us in the Cape May Harbor until noon when it seemed to clear. Headed out along with Rising Tide motorsailing up the coast and as we should have expected the fog returned. Thankfully the visibility improved as we reached the Atlantic City inlet and we were able to easily find our way into the protected anchorage north of downtown.
Fri-Fair winds but showery, got an early start as we bid farewell to Rising Tide (they were waiting for weather to head offshore for Block Island then on to Mass). Arrived at 3 pm at Barnegat Light anchorage where I spent an unpleasant late afternoon working to correct problems associated with dirty fuel. (clogged filters and water separator).
Sat- Winds were out of the north but predicted to veer east so we pushed on to complete this stretch of the coast while the weather cooperated. The Jersey coast is the only part of our journey where we had to sail off the coast in unprotected waters and I was anxious to get this behind us. From Cape May to Sandy Hook the gps logged 144 miles but we were able to break it up in 3 stretches. Jerseys inlets are notorious for steep waves and swift currents if the weather is bad so many boats make the trip in one overnite journey. Since we had no set schedule we would have waited out bad weather if necessary. Sat evening found us dining on 3 bluefish caught during the day, anchored behind Sandy Hook in sight of the Verrazano Bridge with the NY skyline in the far distance.
Fri-Fair winds but showery, got an early start as we bid farewell to Rising Tide (they were waiting for weather to head offshore for Block Island then on to Mass). Arrived at 3 pm at Barnegat Light anchorage where I spent an unpleasant late afternoon working to correct problems associated with dirty fuel. (clogged filters and water separator).
Sat- Winds were out of the north but predicted to veer east so we pushed on to complete this stretch of the coast while the weather cooperated. The Jersey coast is the only part of our journey where we had to sail off the coast in unprotected waters and I was anxious to get this behind us. From Cape May to Sandy Hook the gps logged 144 miles but we were able to break it up in 3 stretches. Jerseys inlets are notorious for steep waves and swift currents if the weather is bad so many boats make the trip in one overnite journey. Since we had no set schedule we would have waited out bad weather if necessary. Sat evening found us dining on 3 bluefish caught during the day, anchored behind Sandy Hook in sight of the Verrazano Bridge with the NY skyline in the far distance.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Chesapeake and Delaware Bays
June 2&3, Tues,Wed- The past 2 days have been sunny and warm with very little wind. Spent Tues night in a pretty harbor at Deltaville, and Wed. we pushed on to Solomons Island with it's protected anchorages.
Thurs thru Sat-Weather has turned cloudy and cooler, anchored in Harness Creek just south of Annapolis just as heavy rain set in. This area is the 200 acre Quiet Waters County park that the river winds thru. Six miles of paved bike trails, a short bike to Annapolis and shopping, and deer feeding along the shore all combined to make this high on our list of spots to return to. Heavy rain all day Fri kept us on board but Sat dawned sunny and warm. After a stop at the nearby Yanmar dealer for a replacement raw water pump for our engine (original had started leaking and I was afraid of it failing), We biked into Annapolis where we spent the day sightseeing.
June 7&8, Sunday- Sunny and warm with light winds as we motor/sailed to Chesapeake City. The tiny harbor was busy with weekend boat traffic but quieted down as evening approached.
Monday-A late start to time our transit thru the C&D canal and Delaware Bay with the tide worked out and we had a great run to the Cohansey River in NJ where our good friends Bob and Mae picked us up for dinner at their home then left us with a car to use. We spent Tuesday catching up on laundry and shopping followed by dinner out.
Wed- An early departure to catch the tide found us in Cape May by noon. Spent the afternoon biking about this quaint city. The trip to the point and lighthouse proved a little more than our out of shape bodies were ready for but we had a great day. Our friends Ken and Heidie aboard Rising tide arrived in the afternoon and we had Cocktails together as we caught up on our adventures since we were last together in Fl.
Thurs thru Sat-Weather has turned cloudy and cooler, anchored in Harness Creek just south of Annapolis just as heavy rain set in. This area is the 200 acre Quiet Waters County park that the river winds thru. Six miles of paved bike trails, a short bike to Annapolis and shopping, and deer feeding along the shore all combined to make this high on our list of spots to return to. Heavy rain all day Fri kept us on board but Sat dawned sunny and warm. After a stop at the nearby Yanmar dealer for a replacement raw water pump for our engine (original had started leaking and I was afraid of it failing), We biked into Annapolis where we spent the day sightseeing.
June 7&8, Sunday- Sunny and warm with light winds as we motor/sailed to Chesapeake City. The tiny harbor was busy with weekend boat traffic but quieted down as evening approached.
Monday-A late start to time our transit thru the C&D canal and Delaware Bay with the tide worked out and we had a great run to the Cohansey River in NJ where our good friends Bob and Mae picked us up for dinner at their home then left us with a car to use. We spent Tuesday catching up on laundry and shopping followed by dinner out.
Wed- An early departure to catch the tide found us in Cape May by noon. Spent the afternoon biking about this quaint city. The trip to the point and lighthouse proved a little more than our out of shape bodies were ready for but we had a great day. Our friends Ken and Heidie aboard Rising tide arrived in the afternoon and we had Cocktails together as we caught up on our adventures since we were last together in Fl.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Beaufort, NC to Norfolk
Tues, 5-26- After spending the morning ashore in Beaufort shopping and visiting the Maritime museum we headed for Oriental where we had mail waiting. Especially needed was our chartbook for the Chesapeake/Delaware which we had forgotten in Jensen Beach. Thankfully our friends Donna and Gene (s/v Sandpiper) were still in Stuart and were able to ship it to us.
Wed,Thurs- Following a breakfast ashore we spent the day motoring into showers and headwinds for 2 days. This section of the ICW cuts thru various sounds and rivers allowing us to avoid the treacherous waters off Cape Hatteras and the outer banks. Our plan had called for a side trip to Ocracoke Island on the outer banks but strong headwinds and rain on Pamlico Sound convinced us to scrap this idea. Quiet anchorages on Dowrey Creek and The Alligator River served as overnite havens from the weather.
Fri,Sat-Greeted with a sunny and warm day with favorable winds we had a great sail across Abalmarle Sound to the town docks at Elizabeth City. Free docks, a cocktail party for the arriving boaters each night and shopping/laundry close by made this one of our favorite stops. After a visit to the fantastic Maritime Museum of the Abalmarle Sat morning found us stocking up at the farmers market and local seafood outlet while Chris did a couple of loads of laundry. We then headed north for the free docks at the NC visitors center and a tour thru their newly completed natural history museum.
Sun, Mon- After transiting the peaceful Dismal Swamp, the busy Norfolk Harbor/Hampton Roads area were quite a contrast. We bypassed the busy anchorage at Norfolk in favor of the much quieter Hampton River/Deep Creek at Hampton. Monday was spent biking about sightseeing.
Wed,Thurs- Following a breakfast ashore we spent the day motoring into showers and headwinds for 2 days. This section of the ICW cuts thru various sounds and rivers allowing us to avoid the treacherous waters off Cape Hatteras and the outer banks. Our plan had called for a side trip to Ocracoke Island on the outer banks but strong headwinds and rain on Pamlico Sound convinced us to scrap this idea. Quiet anchorages on Dowrey Creek and The Alligator River served as overnite havens from the weather.
Fri,Sat-Greeted with a sunny and warm day with favorable winds we had a great sail across Abalmarle Sound to the town docks at Elizabeth City. Free docks, a cocktail party for the arriving boaters each night and shopping/laundry close by made this one of our favorite stops. After a visit to the fantastic Maritime Museum of the Abalmarle Sat morning found us stocking up at the farmers market and local seafood outlet while Chris did a couple of loads of laundry. We then headed north for the free docks at the NC visitors center and a tour thru their newly completed natural history museum.
Sun, Mon- After transiting the peaceful Dismal Swamp, the busy Norfolk Harbor/Hampton Roads area were quite a contrast. We bypassed the busy anchorage at Norfolk in favor of the much quieter Hampton River/Deep Creek at Hampton. Monday was spent biking about sightseeing.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Beaufort NC
The past week has brought us thru some beautiful and varied sections of south and North Carolina. We spent 5 nights in Charleston due to stormy weather. A cold front stalled nearby bringing Gale winds and temps going from record hi's to record lo's. Charleston is a magnificent small city, and being there for all the spring flowers was an added bonus. We finally headed out Wed AM as winds were predicted to calm slightly only to spend all day waiting at the first bridge for the winds to fall below 25 mph so they could open. Finally passed thru at 6 pm and anchored for the night close by. (the following day would have been the same as the bridge opened only once)
We have been trying to make about 50 mi a day which is much easier this time of year with the added daylight. The salt marshes of Low country fell behind as we traveled up the Waccama River. Tall trees line the shores and each bend brings another nest of young osprey to keep us entertained. Very little sign of man encroaching on this wilderness.
The beginning of the week was slow going as we were fighting headwinds and currents most of the time so it was a welcome change on Fri to catch favorable currents all day giving us a record 75 mile day. As the ICW passes thru the Myrtle Beach area it is called the ditch, very narrow
canal with not much to offer and it was good to have this pass quickly as we anchored at Calabash and went ashore for their famous fried seafood.
Many cruisers we met were staying put for Memorial weekend due to heavy boat traffic. We felt we wanted to keep moving and have braved all the crazy vacationers out for their first summer weekend. Especially wild was snows cut with it's 3 kt current after fighting the same current for 12 miles up the Cape Fear River with every fisherman returning from a day out on the Atlantic.
Fair winds and open waters have allowed us to sail much of the past 2 days. We arrived in Beaufort (Bo fort) NC early afternoon Memorial Day and spent the rest of the day biking about. Our next stop is a short hop to Oriental to pick up mail.
We have been trying to make about 50 mi a day which is much easier this time of year with the added daylight. The salt marshes of Low country fell behind as we traveled up the Waccama River. Tall trees line the shores and each bend brings another nest of young osprey to keep us entertained. Very little sign of man encroaching on this wilderness.
The beginning of the week was slow going as we were fighting headwinds and currents most of the time so it was a welcome change on Fri to catch favorable currents all day giving us a record 75 mile day. As the ICW passes thru the Myrtle Beach area it is called the ditch, very narrow
canal with not much to offer and it was good to have this pass quickly as we anchored at Calabash and went ashore for their famous fried seafood.
Many cruisers we met were staying put for Memorial weekend due to heavy boat traffic. We felt we wanted to keep moving and have braved all the crazy vacationers out for their first summer weekend. Especially wild was snows cut with it's 3 kt current after fighting the same current for 12 miles up the Cape Fear River with every fisherman returning from a day out on the Atlantic.
Fair winds and open waters have allowed us to sail much of the past 2 days. We arrived in Beaufort (Bo fort) NC early afternoon Memorial Day and spent the rest of the day biking about. Our next stop is a short hop to Oriental to pick up mail.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
North thru low country Georgia and S. Carolina
The past week has brought us thru dramatically varied sections of the waterway. Our final day thru Floridas first coast was spent mostly in narrow rivers and landcuts that were much more developed than the stretch thru central Florida. As we enterd the low country of Georgia and then South Carolina the vistas open out to huge expanses of salt marsh that stretch for miles in every direction. We travel from river to river thru many wide open sounds never quite sure what the currents will do next. The tides here are about 7 to 8 ft and greatly affect our speed.
On mothers day we spent a day exploring Cumberland Island, Ga. The record hi temps of lo 90's made it a little warm for hiking but the beach was by far the finest we have seen the whole trip. At low tide I paced off 220 yards of flat clean beach. This National Park is home to a herd of wild horses(see attached pic) but they were rather elusive during our stay.
The weather the first part of the week was hot with lite winds. Glad we were on the water where we stayed comfortable. Sunday was the first time we have used our sun awning since making it. Monday evening brought a cold front and the weather was cloudy and cooler for a couple of days. Stiff north winds made crossing the open sounds slow work. The past couple of days have been warm with a shower each afternoon.
We have been traveling with 2 other boats the past few days and have had Dinners together. Both couples are returning from the Bahamas and regalied us with many interesting stories and lots of useful info to prepare us for our next journey. Scott and Kitty aboard Tamure have sailed around the world twice (second time with 2 children) and had great stories to tell.
We are currently anchored in Charelston SC harbor. Noisy and busy but we wanted to explore the city and this is the nearest anchorage. We shopped today as it has been almost 2 weeks since leaving Jensen Beach and fresh food was starting to dwindle. Freezer section I built into our fridge/icebox has worked great, we ate the last of our frozen venision today.
On mothers day we spent a day exploring Cumberland Island, Ga. The record hi temps of lo 90's made it a little warm for hiking but the beach was by far the finest we have seen the whole trip. At low tide I paced off 220 yards of flat clean beach. This National Park is home to a herd of wild horses(see attached pic) but they were rather elusive during our stay.
The weather the first part of the week was hot with lite winds. Glad we were on the water where we stayed comfortable. Sunday was the first time we have used our sun awning since making it. Monday evening brought a cold front and the weather was cloudy and cooler for a couple of days. Stiff north winds made crossing the open sounds slow work. The past couple of days have been warm with a shower each afternoon.
We have been traveling with 2 other boats the past few days and have had Dinners together. Both couples are returning from the Bahamas and regalied us with many interesting stories and lots of useful info to prepare us for our next journey. Scott and Kitty aboard Tamure have sailed around the world twice (second time with 2 children) and had great stories to tell.
We are currently anchored in Charelston SC harbor. Noisy and busy but we wanted to explore the city and this is the nearest anchorage. We shopped today as it has been almost 2 weeks since leaving Jensen Beach and fresh food was starting to dwindle. Freezer section I built into our fridge/icebox has worked great, we ate the last of our frozen venision today.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Northbound thru Florida
After spending the month of April ashore in Jensen Beach we are back on the water and heading north. We had a great stay, Kate and Alli came down together for a week after Easter, It was good to have the family together, we took a couple of daysails and spent time at the beaches. The weather has been great with most days in the lo to mid 80’s and only a couple of days that got uncomfortably warm.
We left for this leg of our journey Monday morning and have had 3 perfect sailing days, yesterday(Thurs) the only day we spent under power. With blue skies, temps in mid 80’s and winds southerly at 10-15 kts we have covered 220 miles mainly under sail. This portion of the ICW is quite scenic with mainly wide open waters(even if most are only a few feet deep) and much deserted shoreline. Birds abound, Tuesday evening we anchored in a deserted cove and were entertained by a family of young osprey learning to fly. Wednesday as we passed thru the Haulover Canal (a short cut thru Merrit Island near the Kennedy Space Center) we saw 2 large alligators, a huge Manatee, and a group of Dolphins all within a 500 ft stretch. Didn’t get any pictures though as we were passing thru a drawbridge and couldn’t stop. A little further on we had a manta ray leap in the air close by.
We are currently anchored in St. Augistine where we plan on a couple days playing tourist. today we are meeting one of Chris' college roomates for lunch.
We left for this leg of our journey Monday morning and have had 3 perfect sailing days, yesterday(Thurs) the only day we spent under power. With blue skies, temps in mid 80’s and winds southerly at 10-15 kts we have covered 220 miles mainly under sail. This portion of the ICW is quite scenic with mainly wide open waters(even if most are only a few feet deep) and much deserted shoreline. Birds abound, Tuesday evening we anchored in a deserted cove and were entertained by a family of young osprey learning to fly. Wednesday as we passed thru the Haulover Canal (a short cut thru Merrit Island near the Kennedy Space Center) we saw 2 large alligators, a huge Manatee, and a group of Dolphins all within a 500 ft stretch. Didn’t get any pictures though as we were passing thru a drawbridge and couldn’t stop. A little further on we had a manta ray leap in the air close by.
We are currently anchored in St. Augistine where we plan on a couple days playing tourist. today we are meeting one of Chris' college roomates for lunch.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Crossing florida Via Okeechobee Waterway
3-16 After a bike ride around the south end of Sannabel Is. we headed to Cape Coral where we anchored in Bimini Bay, a dredged harbor accessed via canal thru residential area. A very protected anchorage with a nice town park and shopping nearby. Sunny and warm
3-17 Biked around town picked up a few groceries then headed for the mooring field at Ft. Meyers. Sunny and warm, breeze picked up in afternoon leaving mooring field very exposed, also very noisy with highway bridge close by. We had planned to go to town for St Pats dinner but moorings were a long ride across rough water to marina. Decided to move to Hancock Creek where we anchored in a peaceful desolate spot with great protection. Shallow at entrance but deep in creek.
3-18 thru 21- Head out at low tide and had to plow thru soft mud to get out of creek entrance. Motor up river to LaBelle where we tied up to town docks for the next 4 nights.The wind is predicted to be strong out of the north for a few days. We have been warned against crossing Lake in these conditions as shallows and 30 mile fetch builds the waves. We spent the first 2 nights at boat launch dock then we moved to free town dock with water and electric, library with wifi next door. Old time small town, very friendly but main drag kind of run down. plenty of shopping and small restaurants nearby. The only drawback was the traffic noise from drawbridge.
3-22 Motor to Moore Haven and anchor in old canal. Finally saw our first alligators of the trip. As we turned into canal 5 gators were sunning on bank, tried to get close for a picture but they slid into water. These gators (one was huge) were right across from campground. spoke to a few campers who said gators don't bother them. Many had small dogs and I bet they aren't allowed off their leash.
3-23 Motor to Clewiston where we tied up to dolfins on edge of canal. Chris didn't like tying to these huge pilings as the cleats were to high to reach and posts were to fat to get her arms around. I found them great as it saved anchoring bow and stern to stay out of channel. There were a few alligators around along with tons of birds. Biked around town in the afternoon.
3-24 Early start across Okeechobee, winds east @ 15, medium chop, motor to east side of lake then hugged shoreline sailing the next 13 miles. Water was very muddy, plenty of depth, shallowest was 7 ft. lake level is at 13 ft and port miaca lock was open. With the low water level we had plenty of clearance at RR lift bridge. was at 50.25 ft. we had been a little concerned with this bridge as the stated clearance is 49 ft and after measuring our mast prior to this trip we figured on only our wind vanes would just clear with only our antenna hitting. We continued on to the St Lucie lock where we again tied bow and stern to dolfins, this time much easier as cleats were within reach.
3-25 Motor down St Lucie river to our marina in Jensen. Surprisingly our slip was still empty and hopefully we can stay for the next month. After a short walk back to Palm Circle we found that all was well after being away for nearly 3 months. Chris was happy to be back to a bed that didn't move and long hot showers.
Since leaving JensenBeach on Jan 6th we have traveled 928 statute miles. The weather has been great, although a little cooler than we expected and the winds have been strong out of the north much of the time. We stayed out a little longer than we had planned but since we weren't on a schedule it didn't really matter. Our Girls are both coming down for a week at Easter and Chris' sister Carol will also be down during that time. Chris is looking foreward to a month on dry land before we continue on our journey back north.
3-17 Biked around town picked up a few groceries then headed for the mooring field at Ft. Meyers. Sunny and warm, breeze picked up in afternoon leaving mooring field very exposed, also very noisy with highway bridge close by. We had planned to go to town for St Pats dinner but moorings were a long ride across rough water to marina. Decided to move to Hancock Creek where we anchored in a peaceful desolate spot with great protection. Shallow at entrance but deep in creek.
3-18 thru 21- Head out at low tide and had to plow thru soft mud to get out of creek entrance. Motor up river to LaBelle where we tied up to town docks for the next 4 nights.The wind is predicted to be strong out of the north for a few days. We have been warned against crossing Lake in these conditions as shallows and 30 mile fetch builds the waves. We spent the first 2 nights at boat launch dock then we moved to free town dock with water and electric, library with wifi next door. Old time small town, very friendly but main drag kind of run down. plenty of shopping and small restaurants nearby. The only drawback was the traffic noise from drawbridge.
3-22 Motor to Moore Haven and anchor in old canal. Finally saw our first alligators of the trip. As we turned into canal 5 gators were sunning on bank, tried to get close for a picture but they slid into water. These gators (one was huge) were right across from campground. spoke to a few campers who said gators don't bother them. Many had small dogs and I bet they aren't allowed off their leash.
3-23 Motor to Clewiston where we tied up to dolfins on edge of canal. Chris didn't like tying to these huge pilings as the cleats were to high to reach and posts were to fat to get her arms around. I found them great as it saved anchoring bow and stern to stay out of channel. There were a few alligators around along with tons of birds. Biked around town in the afternoon.
3-24 Early start across Okeechobee, winds east @ 15, medium chop, motor to east side of lake then hugged shoreline sailing the next 13 miles. Water was very muddy, plenty of depth, shallowest was 7 ft. lake level is at 13 ft and port miaca lock was open. With the low water level we had plenty of clearance at RR lift bridge. was at 50.25 ft. we had been a little concerned with this bridge as the stated clearance is 49 ft and after measuring our mast prior to this trip we figured on only our wind vanes would just clear with only our antenna hitting. We continued on to the St Lucie lock where we again tied bow and stern to dolfins, this time much easier as cleats were within reach.
3-25 Motor down St Lucie river to our marina in Jensen. Surprisingly our slip was still empty and hopefully we can stay for the next month. After a short walk back to Palm Circle we found that all was well after being away for nearly 3 months. Chris was happy to be back to a bed that didn't move and long hot showers.
Since leaving JensenBeach on Jan 6th we have traveled 928 statute miles. The weather has been great, although a little cooler than we expected and the winds have been strong out of the north much of the time. We stayed out a little longer than we had planned but since we weren't on a schedule it didn't really matter. Our Girls are both coming down for a week at Easter and Chris' sister Carol will also be down during that time. Chris is looking foreward to a month on dry land before we continue on our journey back north.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Sanabel Island
Wed 3-10 Spent day biking around Marco Island and at beach.
Thurs and Fri- Naples Harbor, Anchor in protected basin surrounded by mansions. Bike around city and beaches. While motoring out of harbor entrance a large stingray ( 3 ft across) took 3 leaps out of the water in front of us. On the third jump it hit us broadside high enough to spray us. If we had been in a boat with lower sides it probably would have been in the boat. We had seen them jumping a few times but never this close.
Sat- Arrived Ft Meyers Beach Harbor yesterday afternoon after a great sail. The beach is packed with college kids on spring break. Annual Shrimpfest added even more crowds. Glad we're on bikes as streets are jammed.
Sun- Brunch at waterfront bar then short sail across San Carlos Bay to Sanabel Is. Bike around and enjoyed great beaches. Weather the past few days has been sunny with temps in lo 80's.
Thurs and Fri- Naples Harbor, Anchor in protected basin surrounded by mansions. Bike around city and beaches. While motoring out of harbor entrance a large stingray ( 3 ft across) took 3 leaps out of the water in front of us. On the third jump it hit us broadside high enough to spray us. If we had been in a boat with lower sides it probably would have been in the boat. We had seen them jumping a few times but never this close.
Sat- Arrived Ft Meyers Beach Harbor yesterday afternoon after a great sail. The beach is packed with college kids on spring break. Annual Shrimpfest added even more crowds. Glad we're on bikes as streets are jammed.
Sun- Brunch at waterfront bar then short sail across San Carlos Bay to Sanabel Is. Bike around and enjoyed great beaches. Weather the past few days has been sunny with temps in lo 80's.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
north into the Gulf
Fri 3-5- The winds have finally shifted to the east and we headed out early across Florida Bay to the Little Shark River. Trip of about 50 miles, left with 4 other boats that were also waiting out the winds. We are now in the heart of the Everglades coastline. Unlike the inland portion the shoreline here is heavily forested although only about 2 ft above high tide. Anchored about 2 miles upriver in a very secluded and beautiful spot. Spent Saturday messing about and enjoying the peace and quiet. After Marathon and Key West this is a welcome change. Birds everywhere but still no alligators!
Sun-Headed north motor sailing with light winds. Todays destination is the Barron River, Indian Key. Anchor up river in protected cove. This area is called the 10,000 islands and they mean it. Don't leave home without your GPS. Monday we ventured about 6 miles upriver to Everglades City. A true fishing village with a large working fleet of trawlers. Wanted to spend the night but River was very narrow and tidal current swift so we returned to the coast.
Tues-Another sunny warm day, light winds so we motorsailed north to Marco Island. Anchored in Factory Bay surrounded by Condos and marinas. Quite a change from the past few anchorages but we once again have cell service and wifi. Fresh caught amberjack for dinner. Have had luck lately trolling and so have been eating a lot of fish.
Sun-Headed north motor sailing with light winds. Todays destination is the Barron River, Indian Key. Anchor up river in protected cove. This area is called the 10,000 islands and they mean it. Don't leave home without your GPS. Monday we ventured about 6 miles upriver to Everglades City. A true fishing village with a large working fleet of trawlers. Wanted to spend the night but River was very narrow and tidal current swift so we returned to the coast.
Tues-Another sunny warm day, light winds so we motorsailed north to Marco Island. Anchored in Factory Bay surrounded by Condos and marinas. Quite a change from the past few anchorages but we once again have cell service and wifi. Fresh caught amberjack for dinner. Have had luck lately trolling and so have been eating a lot of fish.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Key West pictures
These ships would go out for out for sunset cruises and sometimes shoot cannons at each other!
Key West back to Marathon
Sun 2-22 thru Fri 2-27- Key West, We have spent the past week playing tourist. Temps have been in the mid to upper 70's but winds have been strong out of the north and east. Chris loved all the activity, there have been 2 cruise ships in port most days and the old city has been really hopping. We have been biking about and spending lots of time at the beaches.
Sat 2-28- Winds finally veered to the east and we headed out early for Marathon. This is a 50 mile trip and we pounded into wind and waves for much of the day. Stormy weather is expected Sunday afternoon so we wanted to get to a protected harbor. Arrived Boot Key Harbor late afternoon as the wind died and we enjoyed a peaceful evening with another beautiful sunset.
Sun- Sunny and warm winds now south @ 10, temps near 80. Front barreled thru as predicted mid afternoon but harbor provides great protection from any wind direction. Winds around 35 kts all night, Chris is bothered by all the noise even though the waves are slight. Temps dropped to 50's by evening but very little rain.
Mon thru Thurs- Sunny and cool. North winds 15-20, Spent time shopping and biking about. It's amazing how busy we stay doing nothing. I guess we really are on island time.
Sat 2-28- Winds finally veered to the east and we headed out early for Marathon. This is a 50 mile trip and we pounded into wind and waves for much of the day. Stormy weather is expected Sunday afternoon so we wanted to get to a protected harbor. Arrived Boot Key Harbor late afternoon as the wind died and we enjoyed a peaceful evening with another beautiful sunset.
Sun- Sunny and warm winds now south @ 10, temps near 80. Front barreled thru as predicted mid afternoon but harbor provides great protection from any wind direction. Winds around 35 kts all night, Chris is bothered by all the noise even though the waves are slight. Temps dropped to 50's by evening but very little rain.
Mon thru Thurs- Sunny and cool. North winds 15-20, Spent time shopping and biking about. It's amazing how busy we stay doing nothing. I guess we really are on island time.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Pictures Dry Tortugas
Beach at Fort JeffersonSailing into the sunrise
Goliath grouper with our reflection.Loggerhead Key lighthouse as the fog rolls in.
Dry Tortugas
Thursday 2-12- Left Key West with lite N wind, beautiful hot sunny day. Motor sailed to Marquesas Key, where we spent a bumpy night with shifting winds. I have read that this group of islands makes up the only known atoll in the Atlantic. Shallow draft boats can enter inside the lagoon and be nearly fully protected, unfortunately our draft limited us to anchoring offshore. Beautiful beaches and many shipwrecks to explore and we hope to spend time here on our return trip.
Friday-Fogged in, but a long trip ahead of us across open water. Headed out under full sail in heavy fog much of the day. Anchored at Garden Key in Dry Tortugas late afternoon. Protected anchorage off of Fort Jefferson. We are now 75 miles west of Key West, the waters are crystal clear with great beaches.
Sat,Sun,Mon.- Warm but fog keeps rolling in and out. Spent our days snorkeling in magnificent coral reefs and shipwrecks and exploring the islands. Colorful fish and corals abound in the shallow reefs. Goliath Groupers at least 5 ft long hang around the boat whenever we are cleaning fish. Apparently these protected fish have become like pets to the divers. Have been given numerous fish by the commercial boats that spend the night anchored here. Wishing for shrimp or lobster but no luck there, next trip we bring rum to trade. The fisherman won't take cash but a 6 pack got me a bucket of Yellowtail Snapper today. These boats come out of Key West and this is the only protected anchorage for nearly 50 miles.
Tues,Wed- A cold front with strong N winds came thru Mon afternoon. Skies have cleared but the Waters are much rougher today, and until winds subside we plan to stay put. Spending our time wandering around Garden Island, Finding spots out of the wind to snorkel and hang out on beach.
Thurs 2-19, Today we get a break from the strong winds before the next cold front arrives this evening. Headed out at 5:30 am under moonlit starry skies. As we were leaving the harbor schools of flying fish were leaping all around us. They actually look like they fly as they skip across the surface. Wouldn't make much of a meal though as they are only 6 in long. Great sailing with winds 10 to 12 kts from the south with temps near 80. Arrive Key West late afternoon. Todays sail brought us 75 miles, our longest stretch to date.
Fri,Sat- As predicted winds strong again from North. Much cooler but sunny with a high of 70. To town for lunch, shopping, internet and biking about. Dingy ride across harbor very wet with spray from wind and waves. Moved to north of city as wind shifted, better dingy ride and protection.
Friday-Fogged in, but a long trip ahead of us across open water. Headed out under full sail in heavy fog much of the day. Anchored at Garden Key in Dry Tortugas late afternoon. Protected anchorage off of Fort Jefferson. We are now 75 miles west of Key West, the waters are crystal clear with great beaches.
Sat,Sun,Mon.- Warm but fog keeps rolling in and out. Spent our days snorkeling in magnificent coral reefs and shipwrecks and exploring the islands. Colorful fish and corals abound in the shallow reefs. Goliath Groupers at least 5 ft long hang around the boat whenever we are cleaning fish. Apparently these protected fish have become like pets to the divers. Have been given numerous fish by the commercial boats that spend the night anchored here. Wishing for shrimp or lobster but no luck there, next trip we bring rum to trade. The fisherman won't take cash but a 6 pack got me a bucket of Yellowtail Snapper today. These boats come out of Key West and this is the only protected anchorage for nearly 50 miles.
Tues,Wed- A cold front with strong N winds came thru Mon afternoon. Skies have cleared but the Waters are much rougher today, and until winds subside we plan to stay put. Spending our time wandering around Garden Island, Finding spots out of the wind to snorkel and hang out on beach.
Thurs 2-19, Today we get a break from the strong winds before the next cold front arrives this evening. Headed out at 5:30 am under moonlit starry skies. As we were leaving the harbor schools of flying fish were leaping all around us. They actually look like they fly as they skip across the surface. Wouldn't make much of a meal though as they are only 6 in long. Great sailing with winds 10 to 12 kts from the south with temps near 80. Arrive Key West late afternoon. Todays sail brought us 75 miles, our longest stretch to date.
Fri,Sat- As predicted winds strong again from North. Much cooler but sunny with a high of 70. To town for lunch, shopping, internet and biking about. Dingy ride across harbor very wet with spray from wind and waves. Moved to north of city as wind shifted, better dingy ride and protection.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Key West
Sun Feb 8- Finally leaving Marathon, skies are partly cloudy, cool with winds NE @ 15. Great sail to Newfound Harbor, (Big Pine Key). After exploring harbor and bumping bottom a few times we decided to move to a more sheltered and deeper anchorage. Sailed on to Saddlebunch Harbor where we found good protection in deep water close to shore. Beautiful evening following a great sail.The highlight of the day was having schools of Dolphin swim with us 2 different times just playing in our bow wave. (See attached picture)
Mon- Sunny and warmer, 62 in morning. Water still cold at 60. winds ENE @ 13-16kt. Great sail to Key West. Harbor which was much busier than I expected, 3 cruise ships at docks, lots of activity with at least 5 schooners giving tours, and dive boats coming and going. Anchored north of downtown off Fleming Key. Great spot with this wind direction.
Tues- Played tourist, biked about- lots of activity in city with 2 cruise ships in port.
Wed- Back in town playing tourist again, some grocery shopping as we plan to head west tomorrow. First stop the Marquesas, then on to Dry Tortuga if weather permits. total distance of 70 NM. Much warmer today lo 80's, winds e@18.
Mon- Sunny and warmer, 62 in morning. Water still cold at 60. winds ENE @ 13-16kt. Great sail to Key West. Harbor which was much busier than I expected, 3 cruise ships at docks, lots of activity with at least 5 schooners giving tours, and dive boats coming and going. Anchored north of downtown off Fleming Key. Great spot with this wind direction.
Tues- Played tourist, biked about- lots of activity in city with 2 cruise ships in port.
Wed- Back in town playing tourist again, some grocery shopping as we plan to head west tomorrow. First stop the Marquesas, then on to Dry Tortuga if weather permits. total distance of 70 NM. Much warmer today lo 80's, winds e@18.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Marathon, Boot key Harbor
Friday Feb 6
Still anchored in Marathon for 2 weeks now. Our plan had been to stay for possibly a week, but when on Keys time there seems to be no reason to rush. The real reason we are still here is the wind has been howling out of the north for the past week. One night as a cold front passed thru we had a storm with winds clocked at over 60 knots. Thankfully it didn't last long and we were in a protected Anchorage where the waves don't get a chance to build. The land here is so flat and the trees are very short, mostly mangroves, so not much protection from the wind. Much of the time the wind has been around 20kts or higher. Not great for heading out to anchorages we aren't familiar with.
We have moved and are now anchored in the main harbor a long ways from the city marina where we can land our dingy, this isn't as convenient but where we were last week we kept bumping things on the bottom. We were in only 7 ft of water and there numerous sunken boats and other junk from past hurricanes that were never removed.
The weather has been sunny but very cool this week. Yesterdays low was 42 with a high of only 56. We did have a few hot days at the beach last week and temps are scheduled to be back to upper 70's this weekend. Mostly good weather for biking about seeing the sights.
Still anchored in Marathon for 2 weeks now. Our plan had been to stay for possibly a week, but when on Keys time there seems to be no reason to rush. The real reason we are still here is the wind has been howling out of the north for the past week. One night as a cold front passed thru we had a storm with winds clocked at over 60 knots. Thankfully it didn't last long and we were in a protected Anchorage where the waves don't get a chance to build. The land here is so flat and the trees are very short, mostly mangroves, so not much protection from the wind. Much of the time the wind has been around 20kts or higher. Not great for heading out to anchorages we aren't familiar with.
We have moved and are now anchored in the main harbor a long ways from the city marina where we can land our dingy, this isn't as convenient but where we were last week we kept bumping things on the bottom. We were in only 7 ft of water and there numerous sunken boats and other junk from past hurricanes that were never removed.
The weather has been sunny but very cool this week. Yesterdays low was 42 with a high of only 56. We did have a few hot days at the beach last week and temps are scheduled to be back to upper 70's this weekend. Mostly good weather for biking about seeing the sights.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Thurs thru Sat,Jan 15 thru 17- Key Largo, anchored in Tarpon Basin, about a mile out from town. Winds have been out of north and this has been one of the few protected spots with deep water(6 ft). Fri and Sat we biked about the area, groceries and a state park with aquarium. Otherwise Key Largo was rather disappointing, quite run down with a lot of dumpy areas along with a few resorts. Weather has been ok with hi's in the lo to mid 70's.
Sun- Sunny with temps mid 70's, Sail to Lignium Vitae Key, anchored off state park, only allowed ashore as part of a tour, we were the only ones in our tour even though it was Sunday. We are now in Florida Bay, the water for miles is average 6 ft deep and gin clear (as they say here), much of the time we were only in 5 ft.
Mon- Sunny, mid 70's, strong south wind. Motor south thru channel 5 to long key bight on the ocean side. Anchorage was much more exposed than we expected and we sailed back to Lignium Vitae as strong winds are predicted overnight. A quick downpour midday but sunny again after. Water in florida bay side is in mid 60's, ocean side is 72. took a quick swim today but to cold for snorkeling.
Tues & Wed - Sunny and cool, Sailed thru Channel 5 to the ocean side of the keys. Cold front with strong north winds predicted. Stayed on free mooring at Indian Key State Park. It has been cool with hi wed. in 50's. Hike around island, tried fishing no luck even though I can see lots of fish among the rocks.
Thurs- still cool, 51 in Marathon this morning. Sunny with winds n@15, Run south to Vaca Key (Marathon) under full sail. Enter Boot key Harbor thru Sister Creek, Anchored Among at least 300 sailboats in harbor. The city has a great facility for the transients with dingy docks, showers, laundry and internet. Many of these boats are here for months.
Fri- Sunny and cool, lo of 47, hi in mid 60's. Met Fred and Linda Robare for lunch, shopping, and a tour of the island.
Sat- Bike about area, Sunny and still cool. Alot of the boaters that we met along the way are anchored here.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Biscayne Bay
Fri. thru Monday- Have spent the past few days anchored in Key Biscayne. First night in Hurricane Harbor which was very protected and peaceful but surrounded by private homes with no place to get to shore. Spent Sat thru Monday at No Name Harbor, National park with protected anchorage, miles of bike trails and a great beach. Has been sunny and hot, did a lot of biking and swimming. The village is very pretty but this place must be a zoo in the summer. Only a short drive from Miami and the island is mostly State and National Park. Harbor was very busy and noisy with boaters Sat nite but quiet the rest of the time.
Tuesday- Hot and breezy, Sail to Boca Chita Key, another national park with protected harbor with inexpensive docks. tiny island but a great spot.
Wed. Breezy and cooler, Strong north wind. Had a great sail south where we anchored in the lee of Pumpkin Key off of Key Largo. Temps in lo 70's. All of Biscayne Bay is about 8-10 ft deep with shallower channels thru the reefs. Water very clear and can see bottom much of the time.
Today(Thurs) we leave Biscayne Bay and enter Florida Bay, Taking advantage of the favorable north winds to run south.
Tuesday- Hot and breezy, Sail to Boca Chita Key, another national park with protected harbor with inexpensive docks. tiny island but a great spot.
Wed. Breezy and cooler, Strong north wind. Had a great sail south where we anchored in the lee of Pumpkin Key off of Key Largo. Temps in lo 70's. All of Biscayne Bay is about 8-10 ft deep with shallower channels thru the reefs. Water very clear and can see bottom much of the time.
Today(Thurs) we leave Biscayne Bay and enter Florida Bay, Taking advantage of the favorable north winds to run south.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Andros continues south
Jan. 6, 2009 Tues. - After 6 weeks ashore we are back aboard and moving south. Sunny and hot, strong south winds. Motored south to Palm Beach anchoring at Phil Foster Park. Water here is crystal clear and 75. Snorkeled a while, quiet nite.
Wed.- Partly sunny and warm again, lo 80's still strong south winds. Motored south thru Lake Worth, anchored in Pellican Harbor, near DelRay Beach. Small circular lake surrounded by condos, but great protection with bad weather expected. Strong winds and some showers with passage of front. Winds shifted to north bringing cooler weather.
Thurs.- Sunny but cooler, lite north wind. high of 74. Motor thru Fort Lauderdale past the huge cruise ships. anchor in South Lake at Hollywood Beach. The past 3 days have taken us thru an area you never get to see by car. The Mansions line the shoreline at every turn. We have covered 95 miles and passed thru 28 drawbridges in 3 days, have had to wait for quite a few as many are on a half hour schedule. I can see why many boaters avoid this section of the icw and run the ocean for this stretch. Will enter the Keys today and only have 6 more bridges to pass thru. Plan on staying at Key Biscayne tonight after passing thru Miami.
Wed.- Partly sunny and warm again, lo 80's still strong south winds. Motored south thru Lake Worth, anchored in Pellican Harbor, near DelRay Beach. Small circular lake surrounded by condos, but great protection with bad weather expected. Strong winds and some showers with passage of front. Winds shifted to north bringing cooler weather.
Thurs.- Sunny but cooler, lite north wind. high of 74. Motor thru Fort Lauderdale past the huge cruise ships. anchor in South Lake at Hollywood Beach. The past 3 days have taken us thru an area you never get to see by car. The Mansions line the shoreline at every turn. We have covered 95 miles and passed thru 28 drawbridges in 3 days, have had to wait for quite a few as many are on a half hour schedule. I can see why many boaters avoid this section of the icw and run the ocean for this stretch. Will enter the Keys today and only have 6 more bridges to pass thru. Plan on staying at Key Biscayne tonight after passing thru Miami.
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