Day 59, Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Got underway at 0630. The overnight thunder storms, rain and change in the wind direction have cleared the air of smoke for the moment. The temperature is also down a bit. The forecast for today is clear in the mid to upper eighties. That’s gotta be better than the past few days. We still have not been able to confirm the operation of the railway bridge #7 (next to Gilmerton), but we are headed home anyway.

We arrived at the North Landing Bridge just prior to the 1200 opening. We were joined in just a few minutes by four other boats. When the bridge tender attempted the opening something went wrong and the bridge would not open. He made two more attempts to open before informing us that the bridge was “stuck” and he was calling maintenance. Maintenance arrived, diagnosed the problem, needed parts and had to wait for the part to come from Great Bridge. All the waiting boats dropped an anchor to wait out the delay. Two plus hours later there were 8 northbound boats and 2 southbound waiting when the repairs were finally completed and the bridge opened.

The delay totally destroyed our bridge schedule. We were now going to hit the Steel Bridge during the evening rush hour closure. We cleared Centerville Bridge at 1500 and the Great Bridge at 1600. After passing through the Great Bridge bridge, we pulled over to the port side and tied up instead of proceeding to the lock. Tying up here allowed us to wait for the 1700 lock through and hit the reopening of the Steel Bridge at 1800. The good news was a report form the Gilmerton Bridge that the malfunctioning railway bridge was operational and in its normal open position. Only four boats continued north at 1700, three sail and one power. We managed to make all the remaining bridges together and said goodbye to each other after passing the Jordan Bridge and Waterside.

We pulled into Scotts Creek marina about 1930 and with some dockside help, secured the boat. We then enjoyed a brew and packed a few bags to take home. Don Wade arrived about 2000 to give us a ride back to our condo. We loaded our meager belongings into the car but Don persuaded us to detour to the PBC clubhouse for a short visit. We received a warm welcome home from the Wednesday night pot-luck dinner gang and enjoyed a few brews and hot dogs. We finally left and arrived at the condo about 2200. We’re Home!!!

Location: Portsmouth, VA, MM Zero. Boat distance traveled, 50.6 miles. Time actually moving, 8 hours. Total travel time, 11 hours.

Day 58, Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Underway at 0800. Today will be a short run to Coinjock, about 35 miles. It’s still smokey, but not as bad as yesterday. We head out across the Albemarle Sound with a light wind on the beam and the chop building. We roll out the jib and it helps only a little. By the time we enter the North River, the chop is making us uncomfortable until we reach Buck Island. Here, the wind shifts and we motor the remaining distance to Coinjock. The smoke is getting bad again and the temperature is soaring by the time we reach the marina. We are tied along side at 1330.

We’ve had it with the smoke and heat and decide to rent a room at the Midway Marina & Motel. The air conditioning and showers are fantastic. We take naps, read and watch TV until about 1900 when we go to Crabbie’s Restaurant. Donna has snow crab and I have NC BBQ. Both meals were great. After dinner it was more A/C and TV. Lots of strong thunderstorms and rain rolled through during the night.

Location: Midway Marina, Coinjock, NC at MM 50. Boat distance traveled, 36.5 miles. Time in actual transit, 5.5 hours. Top speed 7.7 mph, average speed 6.3 mph

Day 57, Monday, June 9, 2008

Underway at 0630. Destination today is Alligator River Marina or a nearby anchorage. There is a fair amount of smoke from the swamp fire and visibility is less than a mile when we depart Upper Dowry Creek. We used the jib a while during the eight mile run to the Alligator-Pungo River Canal. The run was uneventful, but the smoke got thicker and visibility less. We finally lost the wind altogether and by the time we reached MM 115, visibility was down to about 50 yards and a lot of ash was falling on the boat. The 95+ degree heat, high humidity, smoke and little wind made breathing bothersome and our throats and eyes became irritated. Smoke conditions began to improve as we exited the canal at MM 105. We actually saw an alligator in the Alligator River between Grassy Point and Deep Point. He took off when we came close to him.

The winds were predicted to keep the smoke in the area so we decided to stop at the Alligator River Marina rather than anchor. We arrived at the marina about 1500. After the sun went down we showered, watched a little TV in the boaters lounge and enjoyed the A/C.

Location: Alligator River Marina at MM 85. Boat distance traveled, 49.5 miles. Time in actual transit, 8.5 hours. Top speed 6.6 mph, average speed 5.7 mph

Day 56, Sunday, June 8, 2008

Underway at 0630. Destination today is somewhere near Belhaven. This morning there is some smoke from the nearby swamp fire and visibility is down a little. We track our way out of Broad Creek back to the ICW route in the Neuse river. We have some wind and use the jib as much as we can. It’s a hot one and the Hobucken Cut is like a furnace. The closer we get to Belhaven, the more smoke and ash we encounter. We have made good time and decide to stop at the highly recommended Dowry Creek Marina. We arrive at 1330, take on fuel, do a pump-out and proceed to the slip.

The marina has a pool and a great air conditioned boaters lounge which we enjoy. The break from the heat and smoke hit the spot. Later that evening we showered, watched TV in the lounge and finally went back to the boat about 2200.

Location: North of Belhaven, NC at MM 135. Boat distance traveled, 45.3 miles. Time in actual transit, 7 hours. Top speed 9.1 mph, average speed 6.2 mph.

Day 55, Saturday, June 7, 2008

Got a late start but we are finally underway at 0830. Destination today is somewhere near Oriental. Tide and wind are not much help today. It's another hot day but at least things are uneventful. The free slips are already taken at Oriental and the marinas are full up, typical for a weekend. We decide to head to our favorite hurricane anchorage in Broad Creek a little north of Oriental. We turn off the ICW at MM 174 and head up Broad Creek. We pass marker #4 and continue further up the creek to see if we can find another anchorage, but decide to return to Burton Creek just north of #4. We anchor in 7’ of water for the night. We are joined by two other sail boats near sundown. Having visited “Paradise Cove” last November, we decided to remain on the boat and skip the Saturday night karaoke and pot-luck event. The bugs came at dusk and drove us below where we sweltered all night.

Location: Worton Creek near MM 174. Boat distance traveled, 47 miles. Time in actual transit, 6.5 hours. Top speed 7.9 mph, average speed 5.9 mph

Day 54, Friday, June 6, 2008

Underway at 0700. We bumped bottom coming out the channel from the marina, but managed to back off and get back to the ICW safely. We are starting to encounter some smoke and haze from the swamp fire north of us. Destination today was the “freebie slips” at the new town docks in Morehead City,. I ran us hard aground in the small channel attempting to locate the town dock and had to call TowBoat/US to bail me out. We came out this channel when we were going south, but the “negative” low tide got us. I should have known better. After getting out of that mess, we were going to go over to Beaufort stay a couple of days and see the town. This was also not to be as we had arrived at the biggest sport fish tournament weekend of the season. There was no anchorage room or slips were available in Morehead City or Beaufort. The Dockside Condominium Marina dockmaster offered us the use of a T-head for the night if we promised to be gone early in the morning as he had big powerboat coming in at that time. Grateful for anything at this time of the day, we took it.

We cleaned up the boat, showered and went ashore for dinner. The dockmaster recommended “Floyd’s 1918” restaurant as a better choice to the usual “Sanitary” and “Capt Bill’s”. It was only about 3 blocks away so we walked there. The dockmaster was right. It was a very pleasant experience. The restaurant was located in a old home, nicely kept and decorated. The entrée offerings were plentiful and varied. I had the crab cakes and Donna had the shrimp and grits. Both meals were very good. We even tried the Carolina Blonde Pale Ales and found them to be flavorful and mild.

After dinner we walked back to the boardwalk and proceeded south to see if we could find the city dock area. We located the dock and noted we were only about 300 yards south of them when I ran us aground. Well, at least we know where they are and not to use the little north channel at other than high tide.

We arrived back at the boat after 2130 so we called it a day since we had to leave early the next morning.

Location: Morehead City, NC at MM 205. Boat distance traveled, 57 miles. Time in actual transit, 10 hours. Top speed 8.0 mph, average speed 5.6 mph

Day 53, Thursday, June 5, 2008

We got underway around 0815. We did a later start today so we can ride the tide/current up the Cape Fear River. It also gave us a chance to sleep in a little and have a leisurely breakfast, a real treat. The “ride” up was pretty nice except for a skinny water patch as we crossed the river over to Snow’s Cut. Back in the ICW we negotiated the daily trouble spot inlets, Carolina Beach, Masonboro and Mason.

As we neared Surf City Bridge it was apparent that we would not reach a suitable anchorage before dark so we called the Beach House Marina at Surf City and reserved a slip. The channel off the ICW to the marina was short and a little shallow, especially with another negative tide. We made it in and saw 6’ depth on the way in. Water at the dock was about 7’.

We walked over to the beach area for a while and then to the local IGA grocery about a block away. We then fixed dinner, took showers and retired.

Location: Beach House Marina, Surf City, NC at MM 260. Boat distance traveled, 48.4 miles. Time in actual transit, 8.0 hours. Top speed 12.2 mph, average speed 5.8 mph

Day 52, Wednesday, June 4, 2008

I forgot to record the “Underway” time. Destination today is somewhere near Southport, NC. We do a pretty good job of timing our arrival at Sunset Beach Bridge (pontoon bridge) and continue on to the trouble spots of the day. There are so many inlets to deal with, you are fighting tidal current on one leg and then running with the current on the next. We make it through Shallotte and Lockwoods Folly Inlets by following the advice I got off the Salty Southeast Cruisers Net.

We arrived at the “Pipeline” anchorage area near low tide. There is an underwater damn there and I did not like the looks of the entrance depth. The low tide was going to be a “negative” tide so I decided not to anchor and moved on toward Southport. We needed to time our transit up the Cape Fear River and we also needed to refuel so stopping at the Southport Marina was a better option. Even here the low tide caused problems. We were touching bottom at the fuel dock and when we tried to go to our assigned slip we ran aground in the fairway about 40 yards from the slip. I was able to back off safely. We were then told to go to the T-head north of the fuel dock and we were able to dock there.

After docking we walked about 1.5 miles to a convenience store and bought the essentials, beer, bread and milk. After the walk back we fixed dinner, watched TV, read books and retired for the evening.

Location: Southport Marina, Southport, NC at MM 309. Boat distance traveled, 44.7 miles. Time in actual transit, approximately 8.5 hours.

Day 51, Tuesday, June 3, 2008

We get underway about 0730. The Wacamaw River is beautiful and pleasant. The scenery is nice and green, not brown like it was in November. We spot 3 alligators in the river and even get a couple pictures of one. We see lots of turtles and ospreys too. Bucksport Landing is now shut down. The couple running it decided to retire and no one has taken it over yet. That’s a shame, their homemade sausage was great.

 

We hit the “Rockpile” area at close to high tide, met no commercial traffic and made it safely through to Barefoot Landing. We stopped here to allow Donna to do some shopping in the “getcha” stores. After tying up, we walked around all the shops, used the rest rooms, bought an ice cream cone and then went back to the boat. Except for the great dock, this place is just a tourist trap. What a waste!

Donna fixed dinner, we watched some TV and retired for the night.

Location: Barefoot Landing, Myrtle Beach, SC at MM 354. Boat distance traveled, 52 miles. Time in actual transit, 7.5 hours. Top speed 8.5 mph, average speed 7.0 mph.

Day 50, Monday, June 2, 2008

We departed Charleston at 0715. Destination is an anchorage about 40-50 miles north. We get some assist from the tide and wind, but it’s another hot day. Unlike our experience in the fall, the Ben Sawyer Bridge works today and we hit it on schedule. We push on taking advantage of the wind and tide to make it to Georgetown at MM 402. The anchorage is really crowded so we opt to stay at Harborwalk Marina. We get a starboard tie on the north end of the new floating docks. The docks are nice, but the lounge and showers are under reconstruction, probably why we were able to get a slip. We fix dinner, take sponge baths and retire for the evening.

Location: Harborwalk Marina, Georgetown, SC at MM 402. Boat distance traveled, 67.3 miles. Time in actual transit, 12 hours. Top speed 9.5 mph, average speed 5.7 mph

Day 45-49, Wednesday, May 28 to Sunday, June 1, 2008

We had a wonderful time playing tourists for five days

Day 44, Tuesday, May 27, 2008

We’re up at 0600 and underway at 0630. Its only 20 miles to Charleston, but we are hoping to make it through Elliott’s Cut and Wappoo Creek before it reaches maximum current. Lots of skinny water all the way until we reach the wider parts of the Stono River. We are late arriving at the cut and fight a 2.0+ mph current, however we do arrive a little early for the restricted opening at the Wappoo Creek Bridge. Once past the bridge it was just a short run to the Ashley River and Charleston.

We contacted the Charleston City Marina got our slip assignment and directions. Approaching the “J” dock, I swung Ninkasi in a wide starboard turn to enter the slip area. That was a big mistake as the current swung us way wide and I had to really power up to avoid hitting a boat on the end of “K” dock. Other than that the docking went smoothly. We covered the 20 miles in four hours arriving at 1030.

We spent the rest of the day cleaning the boat, relaxing, taking showers and taking naps.

Location: Charleston, SC at MM 469. Boat distance traveled, 20.2 miles. Time in actual transit, 5 hours. Top speed 7.3 mph, average speed 4.1 mph

Day 43, Monday, May 26, 2008

We’re up early and underway at 0710. We pass Beaufort City Marina and Ladies Island Swing bridge fighting the current as usual. It’s a long day of fighting current and only occasionally getting a boost from it. We finally reach Church’s Creek about 1715 and find four other boats already at anchor. We proceeded up the creek passing two boats and anchored just north of the second boat. The other two boats were north of us and were rafted together. It was a 52 mile day, took ten hours averaging only 5.1 mph with a max speed of 8.1 mph. The wind was blowing across the creek and I was concerned about our swing, but the wind died off after sunset leaving us head-up into the current. Current here was strong so I set an alarm to get up and monitor our swing after slack tide. The wind stayed down, we swung nicely with the current so I retired again.

Location: Chruch’s Creek anchorage at MM 488. Boat distance traveled, 52 miles. Time in actual transit, 10 hours. Top speed 8.1 mph, average speed 5.1 mph

Day 42, Sunday, May 25, 2008

We got up early to take showers and enjoy free doughnuts and coffee. Then we pulled the boat forward on the fuel dock to get a pump out. Once done with all that, we finally got underway at 0830. Tides and current seem to be a little more favorable today. We tried to find anchorage space in the area near the marina in Beaufort, but the wind and tide combination didn’t give us any safe anchorages. So, we back tracked a little and anchored south of Beaufort next to the high rise bridge.

We enjoy dinner and turn in as the run tomorrow is about fifty miles to a popular anchorage in Church’s Creek.

Location: Anchorage south of Beaufort, SC at MM 540. Boat distance traveled, 51.9 miles. Time in actual transit, 9.5 hours. Top speed 8.6 mph, average speed 5.6 mph.

Day 41, Saturday, May 24, 2008 (Our 33rd Anniversary)

We get underway about 0820. The day is overcast and we run through a few patches of light rain. Later the skies brightened up a bit, but it was still partly cloudy. As the skies cleared, the temperature began to soar. It is only a thirty two mile run to Thunderbolt but current and tides are not helpful. We arrive at the dock about 1400. Our average speed is 5.7 mph and top speed is 7.0 mph. Our slip is along the south end of the fuel dock, a typical transit spot. Glen, the dockmaster is very helpful, courteous, and friendly.

We secure the boat, enjoy a brew and then head to the showers. We have decided to celebrate our anniversary here in Thunderbolt. We check with Glen and he recommends a local spot within easy walking distance. Its only about a 15 minute walk to “Tubbie’s Tank House”. The place seems to be very popular with the locals. Donna had steamed shrimp and I had fried oysters. The shrimp were large and delicious. The oysters were small, over breaded and over cooked. Still all-in-all the meal was an enjoyable anniversary meal.

Afterward, we walked to a convenience store and got milk, bread and milk. We also had a couple of ice creams to top off our dinner. By the time we got back to the boat it was almost dark. With full tummies, we called it an evening and turned in.

Location: Thunderbolt Marina, Thunderbolt, GA at MM 585. Boat distance traveled, 32 miles. Time in actual transit, 5.5 hours. Top speed 7.0 mph, average speed 5.7 mph

Day 40, Friday, May 23, 2008

We got a late start today. We weren’t underway until about 0745. Sky was overcast and rain predicted. We are trying to time the tide again to pass through another trouble spot at mid to high tide. This also means we will not get much help from the current. The flies are with us again today. Too bad I can’t charge them a travel or rest stop fee, I’d be rich. We reach the Little Mud River (MM 655) near the top of the tide and pass through with the water depth as low as 9 feet. That would make it impossible for us to pass through at anything below mid-tide. We make it past the Medway River where we had such a bad experience on the way down. We are getting low on fuel, so I empty a five gallon can into the tank and we head for Kilkenny Creek Marina to refuel and stop for the night. The marina is “rustic” but we have seen worse. Fuel is $4.97/gal, Ouch! Fueled up, showered and had dinner. A few “no-see-ums” and mosquitoes made things a little uncomfortable, but otherwise it was a good night and I got some much needed sleep.

Location: Kilkenny Creek Marina, GA at MM 614. Boat distance traveled, 54.2 miles. Time in actual transit, 10 hours. Top speed 8.6 mph, average speed 5.6 mph

Day 39, Thursday, May 22, 2008

We're up and underway about 0700. Weather is a little cloudy with scattered thunder storms predicted. We had a little boost from the tide going towards Kings Bay. We followed a “boomer” submarine (at great distance) going in. From there on it was typical Georgia. Cumberland, Jekyll, and St Simon sounds were all pretty quiet. There were no horses to be seen along Cumberland Island this time by. The tide was just starting to come in when we departed and we hoped to pass thru the first of three major trouble spots on the rising tide.

We entered Jekyll Creek a little after mid tide and had good depth all the way through. Lots of green tailed flies all day. They sure like to ride on the underside of the bimini and dodger. We stayed on the main ICW route, bypassing the Frederica River this time, and stopped a little after 5 PM at an anchorage area just off the ICW in Wallys Leg very near the bottom of the tide. There was already a small trawler near the mouth, so we moved up the creek a little way and anchored in 7 feet of water.

While having cocktails, I noticed we were moving and checked the anchor. Sure enough we were dragging. We repositioned the boat, reset the anchor, added a sentinel, set an anchor alarm on the chart plotter and kept a close eye on things as we fixed dinner on the grill. After dinner I took a short nap and was back up for the tide change to make sure the anchor held. Our postition after the tide change looked good so I went back to napping.

Location: Wallys Leg anchorage at MM 665. Boat distance traveled, 50 miles. Time in actual transit, 9.5 hours. Top speed 9.3 mph, average speed 5.4 mph

Day 38, Wednesday, May 21, 2008

The morning forcast calls for the winds to be up all day with scattered thunder storms. We elect to ride it out on the mooring ball another day. We dinghied in to the marina around noon to settle up, to do lunch and a walkabout. It’s a nice little town with the usual antique shops, tourist traps and restaurants. We had a very enjoyable lunch at a little open air cafe. 

It was a pleasant afternoon walking back to the marina. Getting back to the boat however was a really “wet” experience.  The wind and the Amelia River tidal current were opposing making the mooring field choppy as heck. Back at the boat we dried out and then planned the next days run and prepped the boat for departure.

Location: Fernandina Beach moorings at MM 717. Another no travel day.

Day 37, Tuesday, May 20, 2008

We departed St Augustine marina and caught the 0730 opening of the Bridge of Lions. The plan is to make it to Cumberland Island and anchor. We are 3 hours into the incoming tide and it pushes us along nicely. Winds are 15+ and gusting so sailing in the really narrow stretches is next to impossible. When we did rollout the jib we recorded a top speed of 10.8 mph. Things get real breezy in the afternoon. Winds are out of the West or Southwest 20-25 with higher gusts. The wind is pushing water out and we encounter lots of areas with less than MLW. Ran aground dead middle of the channel in Sisters Creek, but was able to back off and “feel” our way through on the extreme starboard edge of the channel.

Weather for the evening now calling for winds from the Southwest at 20+ gusting to 30 mph. Cumberland anchorage is really exposed to the southwest so Donna started searching for another anchorage or marina. She found a mooring available at Fernandina Beach so we decided to stop there.

 With the wind howling and the tide coming in it was pretty choppy in the mooring field. With Donna at the helm and me on the bow, we managed to snag the ball on the first approach. Amazing!! Arrival time 1715 hrs, total running time 9.5 hours and a distance of 62 miles.

Location: Fernandina Beach moorings at MM 717. Boat distance traveled, 62 miles. Time in actual transit, 9.5 hours. Top speed 10.8 mph, average speed 6.5 mph

Day 36, Monday, May 19, 2008

We departed Daytona Marina and Boatworks about 0715 hoping to make it to St. Augustine. We're heading home once again. The run was pretty uneventful as we motored with jib assistance most of the way. We reached St. Augustine docks about 15:45 hours. We docked the boat and then went to town for dinner, pizza & brews. Afterward, we walked the commercial district and then had a ice cream before returning to the dock. Later we showered and made preparations to leave early on Tuesday.

Location: Saint Augustine Municipal Marina, St. Augustine, FL at MM 778. Boat distance traveled, 54 miles. Time in actual transit, 5 hours. Top speed 9.1 mph, average speed 6.3 mph

Day 34-35, Saturday & Sunday May 17/18 2008

Still at Daytona Marina. Bet you're wondering when we are going to start home again. 

On Saturday - we walked up to the old downtown area and got a Stinky Dog and Stinkaide. Then we visited the antique mall. We also went by the West Marine and got some new fenders. Then it was back to the boat to relax...

On Sunday - we did the laundry and made final preparations to leave Monday morning.

Day 33, Friday, May 16, 2008

We're still at Daytona Marina. We caught the bus over to Wal-Mart and bought groceries and a few other items to restock the boat for the trip home. Bought so much stuff we had to take a cab back to the marina.

Day 32, Thursday, May 15, 2008

We're still "In port" at Daytona Marina. Donna and I walked the tourist section of town and over to the real Daytona beach area. We walked about a mile north on the beach and then walked back to Halifax Harbour, West Marine, and back to the boat. We were really tired after all that walking. We decided to stay in and have a quiet evening and watch some TV.

Day 31, Wednesday, May 14, 2008

We're "In port" at Daytona Marina. Donna flew in this afternoon and took a taxi to the marina. Wo Hoo! Later that evening we walked the old tourist trap area and had dinner at Stavro’s Pizza. It's nice to have her back.

Day 30, Tuesday, May 13, 2008

In port Daytona Marina. Donna will be flying in tomorrow, Hooray! But for now, I’m still “chillin“.

Day 29, Monday, May 12, 2008

Still in port at Daytona Marina. I talked with the boat yard and was able to get them to do a “short” haul and power wash the hull. We found a few small barnacles in a couple of places and a number of weed-like growths, especially on the bottom of the keel. The zincs were shot and the cutlass bearing had “backed” out of the strut about 1”. I had them replace the zincs, push the bearing back in place and tighten the set screws which were loose. We splashed the boat and I took her back to the slip. Time to “chill“ again.

Day 28, Sunday, May 11, 2008

I'm still in port at Daytona Marina. After breakfast I headed aloft, Trip #6. A quick adjustment of the Windex angle and the mast project was complete. Took my time putting away the Mast Mate and tools. After that I gave myself the rest of the day off with pay, Ha, Ha.


Score now : Murphy 0, Dick 4

Day 27, Saturday, May 10, 2008

I'm still in port at the Daytona Marina. Spent a little time planning the tools and parts issues in hopes this would be the last trip up the mast. I also tightened up the topping lift and main halyard. With the main halyard now the primary support for the Mast Mate, I made the ascent with the wind blowing abeam at 15-20 with strong gusts (Trip#4). With my weight at the top and the wind gusts, the boat did some serious heeling. Being 53' in the air looking straight down I'm seeing water where the boat should be.  I attempted to lift the bag containing the parts off the deck and pull it up to me, but the wind caught the bag and it got fouled in the lazy jacks. After about thirty minutes of trying to clear it, I finally gave up and descended the mast to clear the rope. After clearing and positioning the bag to the leeward side, I ascended the mast again (Trip#5).

I was able to hoist the parts bag this time without getting it fouled in any rigging. I installed the mast extension bar and finished the Windex assembly. I then installed the “repaired” wind monitor assembly and hoped it would work “electrically” when I powered it up later. After that I installed the new anchor light complete with a very expensive LED bulb. I double checked everything, removed the secondary support lashings, descended the mast and hoped the operation was finally complete. I purposely left the Mast Mate in place knowing Murphy would smack me with another trip up if I took it down.

I powered up the instruments and was pleased to see the wind monitor’s anemometer and wind angle functions working great. I knew the sheaves were going to work fine, but a visual of the Windex from the helm revealed it needed to be “tweaked” to starboard. OK, one more trip up will be required.

After dark, I turned on the anchor light and was delighted to see it was functioning perfectly. Beer time!

Score now : Murphy 1, Dick 3

Day 26, Friday, May 9, 2008

In port Daytona Marina. Using the internet, I located an Ace hardware about 3 miles away. After breakfast I took off on the bicycle armed with my shopping list. I was able to get everything I needed at the hardware store including more alcohol for the stove. Round trip sure seemed longer than 6 miles. The center drive bearing nut on the bicycle came loose on the trip and I had to repair the bicycle when I got back to the boat.

Back on the boat I ascended the mast again (Trip #2) . With the right size socket, I was able to remove the mast cap and examine the sheave problem. The topping lift sheave was missing the starboard wall of the pulley area and the line was jammed between the masthead fixture and the sheave. The main halyard sheave was missing 75% of the starboard wall. Since I had hauled the Mast Mate up on the main halyard, I needed to secure the Mast Mate so I could take the pressure off the main halyard. Using a length of line and a piece of hose to protect against chaffing/cutting, I lashed the Mast Mate to the mast using the two slots in the mast about a foot below the masthead fixture.

I descended , took the pressure off the main halyard and topping lift lines and resecured them with enough slack to allow removal of the sheaves. I tested my full weight on the new Mast Mate attachment point several times before I was satisfied enough to reascend the mast (Trip #3). Once at the top again, I was able to remove the broken sheaves and install the new metal ones and reinstall the mast cap.

The mast cap extension was still not giving up the Windex mount. I finally managed to remove the extension and descended to attack the mount on a safer level. With some effort I was finally able to remove the old mount and partially assemble the new Windex on the extension. Using the long screw and nuts purchased at the hardware store, I manufactured a pointer/counterbalance for the wind vane and tested its physical operation on the dock. A trip to West Marine for a new anchor light and I was ready to go up once again…Tomorrow. Its Beer time!

Score now : Murphy 2, Dick 2

Day 25, Thursday, May 8, 2008

Today is “M” day…time to get the 3 mast problems (sheaves, Windex and wind monitor) fixed or hire someone to fix them. Being by myself, I spent a lot of time “planning” the operation and what tools would be needed. I installed the Mast Mate ladder and ascended the mast (Trip #1) with winds blowing 10-15. I encountered a couple of “obstacles to progress” right away. Obstacles: #1 - I underestimated the size of the nuts securing the mast cap so I did not have the 17mm socket needed to remove the cap. #2 - The nut on the Windex mount came off OK, but the mount was securely corroded into the mast cap extension. I was able to remove the wind monitor masthead transducer and lower it to the deck. I also found a new problem…the anchor light housing was beginning to disintegrate due to years of UV exposure. Score: Murphy 3, Dick 1. I decided to descend to plan the next attack.

I  rode the bike to the nearby West Marine for WD40 and parts to repair the transducer. Success comes in tiny bits, pricey WD40 was all I could find. Back at the boat I disassembled, cleaned and lubricated the anemometer portion of the transducer. I think it will work when reinstalled. The wind vane is another story. The pointer counterbalance is missing and the vane has “wobbled” out the hole for the axle in the plastic. I manufactured some shims from water bottle plastic and the vane pivots better but needs the counterbalance. I tapped out the counterbalance hole to accept a 6-32 screw and attempted to make a counterbalance with the screws and nuts I had on board. The “idea” will work but a longer (3“-4”) screw will be required.

Enough for today. Time for a beer.

Location: still in Daytona Beach

Day 25, Thursday, May 8, 2008

Days 14-24, Saturday, April 26, 2008 thru Wednesday, May 7, 2008

I'm all alone in Daytona.  Just me and the bicycle.  I walk to all the close-by areas and bike to places further away. Daytona is a big place, but it seems the fun activities all revolve around the race track the beach, and bike week.  I have some fun days, but it just isn't the same without Donna.

Location: Daytona Beach

Days 14-24, Saturday, April 26, 2008 thru Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Day 13, Friday, April 25, 2008

We're still in port at the Daytona Marina. After breakfast, the girls packed up their gear for the trip home. I checked out the car and prepped it for the trip home. Then I helped get everything to the car and assisted with the “packing” of the car. Fortunately there was just enough space for the girls and the cat. They hit the road headed for Savannah about 1100.

After the girls departed, I spent a little time cleaning and straightening the boat interior and then started some serious “chillin” without that darn cat bothering me. I kinda feel for the girls as I'm sure Buddy will be screaming all the way home. 

Days 10, 11, 12, April 2008

We still "In port". Day 10, the girls headed for Winter Park to absorb some culture and shop. On day 11 I’m still “chillin” and the girls are out taking in more of the local culture. On day 12, we do showers, breakfast and a quick cleanup of the boat interior. Then we took the boat over to the fuel dock for a pumpout. After returning to our dock area, the girls went by car to Mount Dora for more art, shops and fun. I’m “chillin” again this afternoon. Buddy is going nuts kooped up in the boat.

Day 9, Monday, April 21, 2008

I'm doing the usual "In port" activities while the girls are out locally having fun. I’m “chillin”.

Buddy is wondering why he's stuck inside the darn boat. When we were at the anchorage, he used to be able to run the ship!

Location: Daytona Boat Works and Marina, Daytona Beach, FL.

Day 8, Sunday, April 20, 2008

We’re up at 0700, but just can’t seem to get organized. Finally get underway about 1000. We’re heading for Daytona, Donna and I on the boat, Jan driving the Avalon.

Tidal current gives us a real boost as we head toward Ponce Inlet. The bad news is we arrive at New Smyrna and Ponce at the bottom of the astronomical low tide. We fight terrific current through the cut from R18 to R2 and encounter the dredge operating in mid channel. A real white knuckle, stomach churning 10 miles until we reach Port Orange where the channel was deeper and wider. To make matters worse, every “bubba” was racing to get home no matter who they waked.

We finally reached the turn to Daytona Marina and Boat Works about 1830 hours. Despite making reservations weeks in advance, the “Sunday crew” was not expecting our arrival. We got docked and registered only to find out the place had been sold and the new owners are taking over on May 1st. I managed to get a pro-rated monthly rate for 11 days from the current owners. We are hoping the new owners will honor our monthly reservation and pro-rate us for the days in May. The good news was Jan was waiting at the dock when we arrived.

Shortly after we got docked, Buddy jumped ship, took a run down the dock and jumped on a nice sport fisherman boat. He dived below and was sitting on their big double bed just like at home. I know he wanted to stay, but I snatched him up and we went back to our sailboat.

After a little "chillin" in the cockpit, it was dinner and showers for all.

Location: Daytona Boat Works and Marina, Daytona Beach, FL at MM 831. Boat distance traveled, 54 miles.

Day 7, Saturday, April 19, 2008

We're up early. We drive over to St. Cloud to visit Tommy and Barbara Sturgis and have breakfast with them. After breakfast at a local restaurant, Tommy and Barbara give us a auto tour of the St. Cloud area and then we toured the RV park they were staying in.

We left St. Cloud at noon so we could get over to the Orlando airport. Jan’s plane was on time, but it was after 1500 before we departed the airport. We drove over to Universal Studio park and visited the City Walk. We did a late lunch at Margaretville and then visited the shops.

We drove back to the marina, everyone showered and we called it a long day.

Location: Titusville Municipal Marina, Titusville, FL

Day 6, Friday, April 18, 2008

I’m up early but it is still dark. I’m trying to decide whether we can see well enough to make a run through the bridge before 0630. It’s overcast with lots of clouds so visibility is down. I opt to have breakfast and wait until the bridge is open again after 0800. At 0800 there is a mass exodus from the anchorage and we are the third boat through the bridge.

Our fuel is low and we have no backup so we decide to stop in Titusville and fill-up. At the fuel dock they are working on the pumps trying to set them up for a 17 cent/gallon price increase. By the time we fuel up it is after 1000 so making it to Daytona in time to rent a car is impossible. We decide to stay in the Titusville marina, get a rental car, go get our car so we can pickup Jan Washbourne at the Orlando airport on Sat.

Enterprise picks us up at 1230 and we head for Stuart. We have one last lunch at the Pelican Café in Stuart, then pickup the Avalon at Southpoint and drive both cars back to Titusville. After dropping off the rental car, we make it back to the marina for showers and dinner.

Location: Titusville Municipal Marina, Titusville, FL at MM 878. Boat distance traveled, 8 miles.

Day 5, Thursday, April, 17, 2008

We departed the Vero Beach mooring field a little after 0800. Wind has shifted around to the NE so we sail with the jib and pickup about 1 mph of speed at times. Near Sebastian Inlet, we really need the jib’s help running against the outgoing current. It’s a slow boring run to the Melbourne and we are consuming a lot more fuel than normal. We decide to push on past our scheduled anchorage at MM918, however the fuel tank is almost empty. I dump in the 5 gallons of backup fuel and we push onward hoping to make it to Titusville or thereabouts.

Near dusk, we decide to stop at Addison Point (MM885) and anchor in the south lee of the bridge there. There are seven other boats in the anchorage area. We do dinner and call it a day.

Location: Addison Point south of Titusville at MM 885. Boat distance traveled, 67 miles.

Day 4, Wednesday, April 16, 2008

The AM forecast still bad so we sit again.

Larry and Walter depart at 0700 hours. Whisper’s new 54 HP engine is going to get a workout today. Our little 18 HP engine will be no match for the wind today!

Oops! Found we have been using the “start” battery as the “house” the past two days. I need to design and install some kind of indicator system on the main panel.

Location: Stuck in Vero Beach.

Day 3, Tuesday, April 15, 2008 (Tax Day)

I awoke at 0600 to temperatures near 50°F and winds at 15 knots. The morning forecast calls for winds increasing to 30 from the north. We decided to stay put another day.

Around noon, we called Larry to see if he and Walter got underway leaving Stuart. Both were cold, but they were moving north, however, they were only making 4.5 mph against the wind. Their “plan” was to make approximately 70 miles today. I wished them luck, and Larry said he would call back when he was closer to Vero Beach.

About 1530 hours, Larry called and said he was within sight of the first bridge near us and he would be stopping for the night. After securing his boat to a mooring not far away, Larry and Walter dinghied over and invited us to diner aboard Whisper.

We enjoyed dinner with the “boys” and returned to Ninkasi at sundown. Weather check does not look favorable for Wednesday. Decided to check again in AM.

Started a new book and fell asleep reading.

Location: Still stuck in Vero Beach

Day 2, Monday, April 14, 2008

Despite being up several times during the night, Dick was up at 0600 hours and started preparations to get underway. We are not ready to depart until almost 0800. After releasing all lines to the mooring and my neighbor’s boat, we discover we again have no propulsion. We quickly threw lines back to our neighbor and re-secured the boat. As usual, it takes a lot of relocating or rearranging of the stuff in the aft berth (a.k.a. “the garage”) to get to the transmission. Once that was accomplished I found the aluminum pin had “fallen out“. With winds expected to increase, I decided a proper key was in order before we started out again.

Local knowledge on where to get square stock to manufacture a key was sorely lacking. After many fruitless calls to, WM, hardware stores and a machine shop, I decided to head out to Lowes and search for something to make the key. We caught the local shuttle bus, transferred routes and made it to Lowes near the big mall. There was no square stock in Lowes inventory and the search for substitute material was fruitless too. We started walking towards the mall and passed a Michael’s Arts & Crafts store. We went in to look for substitute material and found a picture easel made of quarter inch mild steel. Search over, bought it and headed to the mall food court to have lunch and catch the return shuttle.

When we returned to the boat, I fashioned a key from the easel material and installed it in the coupling/shaft. We started the engine and tested forward and reverse operation and all looked good. Repacked the “garage” and settled back to enjoy a brew and check the weather forecast as the wind was increasing all afternoon. Forecast called for 15-20 in AM increasing to 20-25 PM and gusts to 30 from where else…the north. Decided to check forecast on Tuesday AM and decide what to do.

Dinner, TV, zonk as usual.

Location: Still stuck in Vero Beach, FL

Day 1, Sunday, April 13, 2008

And so begins Dick & Donna’s ICW Adventure, Part II, The Return

We dropped the lines off the mooring ball at 0704 hours only to find we have no power to the prop. We did a quick anchor drop and began the process of diagnosing the problem. I found the shaft spinning inside the coupling and no sign of a key in the shaft/coupling or anywhere in the engine pan area. We searched the tool boxes and spare parts for a key or key material but found none. I did locate a round pin made of aluminum. I placed it in the keyway and drove it in. It looked like it was holding under load so we weighed anchor and got underway around 0800 hours. We motored 8 miles down the St. Lucie River and entered the ICW northbound. There was a light west wind so I rolled out the jib to give the motor a little assistance. We were making between 6.2 to 7.3 mph depending on the wind strength. When we reached Ft. Pierce, the wind piped up hard and came around on the nose. Wind and current kept us below 5 mph the remainder of the trip to Vero Beach. We pull into the municipal marina and share mooring #16 with two Canadian boats. Checked the weather forecast and it doesn’t look good for a few days. High, 20 -30 knot, northerly winds are expected to dominate.  After dinner Buddy and I conched out leaving Donna to watch TV.

Location: Vero Beach moorings at MM 952. Boat distance traveled, 45 miles. Time in actual transit, 9 hours. Top speed 7.3 mph, average speed 7.0 mph

Suddenly it's time to head home.

Time sort of gets away from you when you are having such a great time. Before we knew it April was upon us. Our winter home was scheduled to close for for a big renovation project at the end of April.  All boats had to be gone from the anchorage. Our original plan had been to sail north to Daytona and stay awhile. Donna would fly home for the retreat, fly back and then we would continue the trip home to VA. Getting the car home with this plan complicated things. 

A new 2 part plan developeds; part 1, sail to Daytona, rent a car, drive back to Stuart, retrieve our car and drive back to Daytona. Part 2 involved flying our friend Jan from VA to Daytona.  Jan and Donna would play "touristas" for a few days in FL, drive to Savannah for more fun and then home for the retreat.  After the retreat, Donna would then fly back to Daytona and we would continue our trip home aboard Ninkasi.

What about Me?  Seems I am left abandoned all alone in sunny Daytona Beach for almost a month.  Pulleeze, don't throw me in dat briar patch!!

The Life Style Changes

Back in FL, we begin to see our new lifestyle change.  The almost daily routine of taking the dinghy to shore and socializing in the lounge remains, but activities with the car take us to new and more distant places. In some cases to places we had planned to visit by boat. We make trips to visit the parents of friends across the state in Fort Myers and Donna's old workmate friend in St Petersburg. Donna explored the shopping opportunities in Ft Lauderdale and Palm Beach.  In February, we traveled to Miami and attended the Miami International Boat Show & Strictly Sail.  

We drove down to Marathon in the Keys to visit friends Kathy and Dutch and stayed aboard their catamaran Drifter III.  We enjoyed the trip and our time with them so much we decided to make a second trip so we could visit Key West.  On the second trip we rented a room at a small family resort and stayed for three days while we explored the area.

Life was good but our plans to sail beyond Stuart seemed to be usurped by the car.  Our friends Larry, Walter and Maggie, and Terry and Kitty still wanted to sail to the Bahamas and finally settled on a departure in mid March. This late departure did not sit well with us because of Donna's commitment to be back in VA by mid April for an artists retreat. We decided to stay put and bid our friends adieu as they headed further south to wait for a weather window to cross over to the Bahamas.  About a week later, that decision led to another car trip south to visit those same friends stuck in Ft Lauderdale still waiting on a weather window.  Two weeks later that same decision proved a good one as our friends abandoned their trip and returned to Stuart.

The 2007 Christmas Dilemmas

Shortly after arriving in Stuart, our friend Larry rented a car and drove his crew home to VA.  Instead of flying back, he drove his van.  This was good because it meant we had real transportation; it was bad because it curtailed our walking and biking. The first dilemma started one morning when Larry announced he was going home for Christmas (to see grand-kids) and asked if we wanted to come along and share the driving and expenses. To me it was a no-brainer, I was on my boat in sunny, warm FL having a blast and it was so-so cold way back home. For Donna, who had never missed a Christmas with her family, it was a different story. OK, so fast forward a couple of days and we're driving north hoping to make a surprise visit to our families. It was fun surprising our families and we had a great time. The Admiral is always right.

The next dilemma was whether to wait and return with Larry or fly back.  Another command decision and we're driving south in our land yacht.  Now we have a boat and car in FL and the new lifestyle changes a bit. 

Dec 2007 - Buddy finally adapts...a little!

Buddy seems to finally be settling down.  He hated the engine noise when we motored which was almost daily as we traveled south. Like most cats we read about, he headed for the vberth and hid behind some pillows or blanket when the motor started.  Donna would bring him into the cockpit as we traveled but he never liked it, especially when forced to wear his PFD. 

On the mooring ball with no motor running, Buddy became more adverturous. Buddy would scare the bjesus out of us by jumping up on the bimini, the boom and later into the dinghy. He eventually developed three favorite spots, the boom, the bimini and the starboard side helmsman seat.

He also made new friends.  This one pelican seemed to delight in teasing him by floating close by the boat.  He would also run all about to see the dolphins as they fed in the morning. We finally became more comfortable with Buddy running about the deck especially after his one and only splash down.

Thankfully, Buddy's splash down was a longtime in the making. It finally occured when he discovered the dinghy tied astern. The 10' painter allowed the dink to sail about in the breeze, but when there was no breeze it would occasionally drift up next to the boat. Never missing a chance to be curious, we were quite suprised to see him leap into the dinghy and walk about the tubes. On one occasion, a puff of breeze started to push the dink away and Buddy decided it was time to come back.  As he pushed off with those powerful hind legs, the dink just scooted away and he fell short, ker-splash.  Screaming "Cat in the Water" and reaching for a hereto unused dip net, I was amazed to see Buddy swim a few strokes, grab the boarding ladder and clamber aboard. Fortunately, I was able to grab him and prevent him from carrying a ton of river water below into the salon. Was he humbled and a little more cautious...yep, but not for long.

December 2007 - A new routine develops.

Since this is all being added after-the-fact (learning this blogging stuff), the next few entries will provide a little insight into how we spent the winter in Florida. 

A typical routine begins to take shape.  Sleeping-in however isn't in the cards.  Any number of things seems to wake Dick. Buddy insisting on being feed at first light, local crabbers motoring by, dinghies headed to shore and dolphins venting next to the boated top the list of wake-up alarms. Sleeping with the boat wide open in December, who would have thought it. The alarms for Donna are always the same; Dick clattering about in the galley and then the smell of coffee.

Life has begun to revolve around the dinghy.  It's our connection to shore for socializing, shopping, laundry, showers, and most importantly, knowledge. Slowly we begin to develop new friendships with other "snowbirds" and liveaboards who are also "living on the ball".   As newbies, we have a tremendous thirst for information about anything that will make our new lifestyle easier and more enjoyable.  The anchorage lounge became a daily stop for coffee, wifi connection, socializing and knowledge. Knowledge is, as everyone knows, a powerful thing, but in boating it can also be expensive as you will see later.     

Day 30, Monday, November 26, 2007

We’re up at 0530. We made coffee and had a good breakfast. After that I did a dinghy run in to shore to dump the trash and turn in the shower keys. It was a beautiful morning in the basin.

We got underway about 0730. We got a little help from the end of the tide cycle but it did not last long. Next it was the tide against us and then the wind filled in against us too. As the wind increased to 15+, out boat speed dropped to 5 mph or less. It became a long day.

We finally arrived at the St. Lucie Inlet “Crossroads” where we turned off the ICW (MM987) and started up the St. Lucie River. There were lots and lots of very big multimillion dollar homes on the shoreline of the river. We even got to motor sail with the jib for a while. We had to pass under three bridges, two fixed high rise and one bascule. Just past the third bridge was our new “home port”, the mooring field of Southpoint Anchorage in Stuart, FL. We contacted the office via the VHF and got our mooring assignments. We picked up #82 and Larry is on #81. Day-O said so long and continued on to their condo/dock a couple of miles further up river. Our GPS trip odometer said we had traveled 1040 miles since leaving Portsmouth, VA.

We celebrated our arrival with a few drinks and sat on deck in the warmth just enjoying the views and a great sense of accomplishment. At dusk we went below and fixed dinner. Later Donna played on the computer and I sat out in the cockpit. In time exhaustion overtook us both and we fell asleep. Later, I awoke, went below, woke Donna and we both crawled into the V-berth and went back to sleep. It was a wonderfully peaceful night.

Location: Southpoint Anchorage, Stuart, FL. ICW marker: 987. Today’s progress: 43 Statute Miles
Total Distance Traveled: 1040 miles.
Weather Holds: 4 days
Sightseeing: 2 days (1 day and 2 half days)
Actual travel: 25 days
Average mileage per travel day: 42 Statute Miles

Our view North                








The view South

Looking East                        

Looking West

Day 29, Sunday, November 25, 2007

Up at 0530 for coffee and breakfast and then we got underway at 0730. It was another boring day of following the magenta line through the shallow waters. We ran into a heavy rain storm about five miles from our destination, Vero Beach. We arrived about 1400, stopped at the fuel dock, took on fuel and water and then moved to a mooring where we rafted together with Whisper and Day-O. Larry’s dinghy motor would not start so once the boats were secured together, we put our dinghy in the water and took Larry and Judy in so they could shower. After everyone had showered, friends of Larry, Walter and Maggie came with 2 cars and drove us to dinner at the Ocean Grill. We had a great meal and a good time. They took us back to the marina where we dinghied back to our boats.

While we were gone Buddy dragged out his bag of dry cat food and helped himself. After we cleaned up his mess, we watched a little TV and fell asleep. Later another rain shower woke us up so we closed the ports and hatches and now I am writing this log note before I turn in for the evening. We’re almost to Stuart where we will stop for a week or two.

Location: Vero Beach, FL moorings at ICW MM 952. Today’s progress: 34 Statute Miles

Day 28, Saturday, November 24, 2007

No sleeping late this morning…up at 0530. Showered and then coffee and breakfast. After that I commenced to clean the bird poop off the dodger, bimini and sail cover.

Around 0745 I jumped in the rental car to return it to Enterprise. When I arrived there I found they opened at 0900 on Saturdays. With time to spare, I went back to the marina and did more to get the boat ready to depart. Day-O and Whisper had already left.

I took the car back at 0900 and we finally got underway about 0930 hours. We used the jib and averaged 6.3 mph over the 40 miles to the next anchorage at MM 918. When we arrived Whisper and Day-O had already put their dinghies in the water so we took a ride with Larry and Judy. We rode about the anchorage but never could find a place to put ashore safely because of the rock rip rap. Larry finally took us back to our boat.

We fixed some dinner and Donna enjoyed a few games of Mahjongg on the new computer.

Location: Melbourne Bridge anchorage at ICW MM 918. Today’s progress: 40 Statute Miles

Day 27, Friday, November 23, 2007 (Black Friday)

We slept late if you can call 0700 late. We did breakfast and then I called Enterprise to rent a car. We had them pick us up at the marina. We needed to replace the dead computer and reconnect with the world. What better day for deals than Black Friday! We headed out to do some shopping.

Walter went fishing with a relative who lives close by. Maggie, Judy and Larry did not want to go shopping so they went for a long walk and hung around the marina the rest of the day.

Donna found a Staples and we bought a new computer. Then we found a BJ’s Wholesale club and restocked some items. We stopped at Barnes and Nobles to give Donna a book and magazine fix. We also found a West Marine and exchanged the inverter we had bought in Morehead City. On the way back to the boat we saw a Wal-Mart so we stopped and got more supplies for us and Larry.

Later that evening we packed everyone into the car and went to the Dixie Crossing Restaurant. Six people in a sub-compact is a hoot, especially with Maggie being the navigator. The restaurant was crowded, obviously a locals favorite. The meals were plentiful and good. Back at the marina, everyone returned to their own boat.

Unfortunately the wind, which had been picking up all day, kept us pitching about until almost midnight. The space heater was keeping things warm inside so after midnight sleep came easy.

Day 26, Thursday, November 22, 2007 (Thanksgiving Day)

We’re up at the usual 0500 to do coffee and breakfast. We depart the marina about 0700 under really cloudy skies and a little bit of wind. We are hoping the predicted rain and thunderstorms stay north of us today.
We have reservations at the Titusville City Marina where we plan to have a “Turkey Day” pot luck dinner. At 1100 we had only come 21 miles, bucking wind and tide all the way. We finally get into Titusville and find our assigned slips are already taken so we just take other vacant slips.

After docking everyone headed for the showers and then we all got together for Thanksgiving dinner aboard Whisper. It was a great meal that included roast port, sausage & cabbage, spinach salad, veggies and chili. For desert we had two great big chocolate chip cookies that Donna baked in our oven. Walter and Maggie’s sister-in-law also brought over half a spice cake too. Everyone was so full, we finally retired to our own boats hoping for a restful nights sleep.

Location: Titusville Municipal Marina, Titusville, FL at ICW MM 878. Today’s progress: 47 Statute Miles

Day 25, Wednesday, November 21, 2007

We’re up early so we can have breakfast and be at the fuel dock about 0630. We took on fuel and departed the fuel dock at 0650. Destination today is an anchorage near Daytona Beach.

The wind piped up and the anchorage candidates seemed iffy so we opted for a marina tonight. We stopped at the Halifax Harbor Marina just past the Memorial Bridge in Daytona. We traveled 54 miles arriving about 1630. All three boats are on the T-head of J-dock. It has been a glorious day weather wise, however the trip was tiring and boring at times. There appears to be lots of open water here, but the problem is that you are stuck in a small channel with about 9’ of water and there is lots of water on either side that is only 1-3’ deep.

We have cocktails and noshes for everyone on our boat tonight. Larry and Judy decide to go to a restaurant for dinner while the rest of us have dinner on our own boats. Donna and I cooked steak on the grill.
Buddy jumped ship when everyone was leaving Ninkasi. Fortunately we found him several finger piers up from us. He was trying to board a big powerboat named “Top Cat”. Traitor!

Location: Halifax Harbor Marina, Daytona Beach, FL at ICW MM 831. Today’s progress: 53 Statute Miles

Day 24, Tuesday, November 20, 2007

We departed the anchorage at Pine Island at 0745. It was a short 13 miles to St. Augustine. We caught the 0930 opening at the Lions Bridge and stopped at the Municipal Marina. After a quick shower we went off to visit the city. We all had pizza and beer at Pizza Alley and it was really good. The ladies then went shopping and the guys went rummaging at the used boat parts store, Sailor’s Exchange.

Back at the boat, Donna did laundry and I attempted to repair the computer. I got it to start a boot up once, but then it would not boot up at all. We feel like we have lost contact with the world without the computer.
Later Donna and I walked back to the tourist area and got an ice cream. Back at the boat we watched a little TV and fell asleep.

Location: Saint Augustine, FL at ICW MM 778. Today’s progress: 13 Statute Miles

Day 23, Monday, November 19, 2007

We get up around 0500 and have coffee and breakfast. Day-O departed around 0645, but we did not get underway until 0730 and played catch up all day. It was mostly cloudy so it remained chilly most of the day. We caught the current on the way to Fernandina but it began working against us from there to the St. Johns River. There we got a real boost and rode the incoming tide all the way to Pine Island. We managed to sail with the jib and make good time.

We anchored near Pine Island around 1615 and then had drinks and diner aboard Whisper. We discussed plans for the next day and decided to stopover in St. Augustine.

Location: Pine Island anchorage at ICW MM 765. Today’s progress: 54 Statute Miles

Day 22, Sunday, November 18, 2007

Up at 0530 for coffee and breakfast. Walter and Maggie get underway at 0630 and we are right behind them at 0645. The tide is almost out, but still has about 1 hour until full low tide. Donna wants to run the helm this morning. Its nerve racking for her and me as we run through skinny water. Our depth gauge hits 3.9’ and 4.4’ several times which means our keel is pushing mud. We slow down to a crawl in the really shallow places and get even further behind Day-O. Larry and another boat are following us so if we screw up and run aground they were likely going aground too. So the morning went! Angst upon more angst. We finally reached some deeper water and were able to exhale. Once we were in the Mackay and Brunswick Rivers we made good time with the current helping us. Passing through Mud River and Jekyll Creek was a little scary as they have notorious shallow spots and were also near low tide.

We passed through St. Andrew Sound and found it “unusually calm” according to Walter. Day-O got held up by a nuclear submarine leaving Kings Bay so we were able to catch up to them in Cumberland Sound. We departed the ICW and anchored off Cumberland Island about 1345.

Maggie has a friend who works as a ranger at the Cumberland Island Park. We dinghied ashore around 1500 and the ranger gave us a personal tour of some of the islands best features, wild horses, the trees, the Carnegie Estate and much more. After the tour we went to Whisper for cocktails and noshes. After that it was back to our boat for cleanup and bed.

Location: Cumberland Island, GA anchorage at ICW MM 711. Today’s progress: 42 Statute Miles

Day 21, Saturday, November 17, 2007

I’m up at 0630 and get the coffee going. Its cold and I can see frost on shore. Whisper and Ninkasi get underway at 0745. According to the GPS, it turns out to be 8.2 miles back to the ICW. Day-O was about 11 miles ahead of us when we got back to the ICW. Later we caught up to them when they had problem with their fuel filters near marker 653. We all pushed on until sunset and anchored in the Frederica River near the ruins of the old Fort Frederica. Ninkasi traveled 57.8 miles today according to the GPS. Everyone is tired.

Donna fixed hamburger helper for dinner and we retired early.

Location: Fort Frederica, GA. ICW marker: 669. Today’s progress: 57 Statute Miles

Day 20, Friday, November 16, 2007

It got darn cold and stayed windy all night. The space heater had run all night and I still woke up cold. There was ice and frost on Ninkasi when I went on deck.
I went below, cleaned the galley and made coffee. Larry came over for coffee around 0830 and said the damage aboard Whisper was not as bad as originally thought. There was some cleaning to do and the battery charger was shorted out due to water immersion. After disconnecting the battery charger, the engine alternator was charging the batteries ok.

On board Ninkasi, damage assessment found we had lost the AM/FM Stereo, the laptop computer and possibly the Sirius radio module due to water intrusion as we pounded into the waves and rain coming up the Medway River.

We talked with Walter and Maggie via phone and they have had a rough night too. The decided to go to the Kilkenny Marina that morning, get the boat squared away, get some rest , stay overnight and start south again tomorrow. We agreed and planned to rendezvous at MM 620 tomorrow.

Elaine and Barney Maley are the marina/restaurant owners. She is the ex-sister-in-law of my old coworker Peggy Maley. Elaine came and visited a while this morning. She took Larry, Donna and Judy into town that afternoon for supplies and repair items.

While they went to town, I cleaned and straightened the boat. Later Donna and I took showers in the Maley’s pool house and then went to dinner at the restaurant with Larry and Judy. The food was great and everyone had a great time.

Afterward, we went back to the boat. Judy and Elaine visited with us while Larry went back to Whisper to do some reading. After the girls left , Donna and I watched a little TV and then went to bed.

Day 19, Thursday, November 15th, 2007

A sleepless night with all the casino boat traffic. Ninkasi’s anchor dragged sometime between 0200 and 0600. Fortunately it reset somewhere mid channel and the traffic had died down. Anyway, I awoke at 0600, made coffee , started getting the boat ready, and weighed anchor at 0640. We led the group out of the anchorage. Larry passed us and made the Causton Bluff Bridge first.

The weather report was calling for a strong front to arrive during the afternoon and the weather to turn really foul with high winds, small craft warnings, etc. Day-O needed fuel so we tried to find fuel and slips for the evening in Thunderbolt, GA. Fuel , yes, but slips were not to be had. Some sport fishing tournament had all the slips full for the next few days. We were given the name of a marina several miles away on the Medway River. Larry called and got us slips, but they were about 40 miles away and the storm was coming. We pressed on but the weather started changing in the late afternoon. Day-O decided to stop at a small anchorage in Kilkenny Creek, MM 613, as Whisper and Ninkasi continue on.

When Ninkasi turned off the ICW and started up the Medway River at MM 620, Whisper was about 3 miles ahead of us. Now the wind was dead on our nose blowing 25+ and gusting. The combined effect of the wind and river current reduced our headway to 2.6 mph up river. Thinking we were almost there, we called Larry for directions to the marina only to have him tell us he was hard aground. When we got closer to Whisper, our chart plotter showed us he had taken the right side of the river and hit a bar that would have been passable at high tide. We took the left side of the river and passed within 50 yards of Whisper. We were in 33 feet of water and cannot get to Whisper to help. Whisper was lying on its port side with the tide still going out. A classic example of tide timing combined with wind had Whisper sitting on a now exposed bar.
Larry said he was going to wait for the tide to return and for us to continue to the marina. So, we pushed on and made it to the dock just as it got dark. Boy was it nice to be tied to a dock! We connected the shore power, started the heater, began to dry out and waited to assist Larry when he arrived.
The winds began to die down some and the tide was coming back in. Sons of the marina owner went out in small boats to assist Larry. There was some water intrusion into Whisper through the sink seacock in the portside head. They had forgot to close it and approximately 200 gallons of water got inside before they realized it. They were able to get the water bailed/pumped out and when Whisper was floating normally made it to the dock shortly after 2100. After we got them tied to the dock, Larry and Judy went to the restaurant for warmth and dinner. It had been a rough day for all. It’s after 2300 as I write this so I’ll sign off for today.

Location: Sunbury Crab Company Marina, GA (Eight miles off the ICW up the Medway River). ICW marker: 620. Today’s progress: 50 Statute Miles

Day 18, Wednesday, November 14, 2007

We’re up at 0500. We do a big breakfast with lots of coffee. Underway at 0730. We would like to stay another day and really visit the town, but the rest of the group is moving on. Maybe we will visit longer on the return trip. Day-O seems to be moving slower today so Whisper and Ninkasi lead the way, swapping the lead about halfway through the day. By 1300, Day-O is running about five miles behind. Larry called on the VHF and suggested we stop at MM 570 and anchor so Day-O can catch up before dark. Day-O, listening in suggests we push on to an anchorage at St. Augustine Creek, MM 578. My Skipper Bob (SB) guide does not recommend the anchorage and despite my objection the decision is made to anchor at MM 578. BIG MISTAKE!!! Ninkasi and Day-O have trouble getting anchors to set as holding is poor and current is strong. Commercial traffic mentioned in SB guide are large casino boats. It’s too late to try for another anchorage so we reposition close to the banks, put out lots of lights and hope for the best.

Location: St. Augustine Creek, GA just south of the Savannah River. ICW MM 578.Today’s progress: 42 Statute Miles

Day 17, Tuesday, November 13, 2007

We’re up at 0500 expecting to get underway at first light, but fog has set in and our departure is delayed. It was just as well because our anchor line had wrapped around the keel during the tide/current change overnight. I somehow got lucky and spun the wrap free by swinging the boat around . It only took about 20 minutes to clear the wrap. Once the line was clear, I hoisted the anchor and proceeded slowly out of the creek. When the others caught up, we picked up the pace and headed toward Beaufort. We cleared the Ladies Island Bridge around noon and then stopped at the Downtown Marina for fuel and slips for the night. The current was strong and docking was tricky.

Everyone hit the showers and then we all went to lunch at Luther’s Rx restaurant about 1400. It’s a warm day and we eat al fresco. It feels good to just sit in the sun. It’s a glorious day.

After lunch, Donna and Judy took the courtesy car to the grocery store. I worked on the boat and started doing the laundry.

It’s 2045 and I’m falling asleep as I make this entry. Time for bed. Walter wants to leave at 0630. Goodnight world!

Location: Beaufort, SC (pronounced Bewfort) ICW MM 536. Today’s progress: 20 Statute Miles