It was really a quiet night. Despite falling asleep early in the evening, we both pretty much slept until 0500. I got up around 0615, made coffee and started making the boat ready to leave at first light. A quick shot of coffee for both of us and we upped anchor. Underway at 0720 Donna eased us out of the creek and back into the ICW.
The morning was cloudy and a little cool, but a little warmer than the day before. Around 1100, the clouds had cleared, the wind had clocked around to the south and the day began warming nicely. By 1200, we were both out of our jackets and gloves.
The day was a typical SC cruising experience. You are either going pretty fast with the current or fighting to make headway. Unfortunately we arrived at the Ashepoo-Coosaw Cut a half hour before dead low tide. Transit wasn’t too bad until we reached the southern end and entered the Coosaw River. Depth gauge was reading 4.6’ to 4.9’ and we were going slow which made the experience agonizing long.
We continued on to Beaufort, SC, where we passed through the Ladies’ Island Bridge. As we passed the anchorage area off Beaufort, we saw the English couple we dined with in Dowry Creek and Morehead City. They came on deck and waved as we passed and continued on to Port Royal and Battery Creek. We arrived at near the top of the tide and anchored just past the shrimp boat docks where three sailboats were on moorings. We anchored in 18’ of water and about 10 kt of breeze. Hopefully this place will be as quiet and pleasant as last night’s anchorage.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Port Royal, SC on Battery Creek, South of Beaufort, SC, MM542
Started: 0720 Stopped: 1600
Distance Traveled: 48 mi, Max spd: 8.7, Avg spd: 5.4
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 542 Statute Miles
Day 21, November 28, 2009
Timing the departure for an easy ride through Elliott’s Cut meant we could sleep in and enjoy a nice breakfast. We pulled out of the slip and headed down the Ashley River about 1100 hrs. A short way into Wappoo Creek we had to wait for the bridge opening. It was there we met up with another couple who had been at Dowry Creek during our stay. We fell in behind them and followed them through the cut.
The morning was cool and it took a while for the sun to warm things a little. With the short day, we could only hope to make about 30 miles or so and I had picked out an anchorage at about that distance. We had to negotiate a few skinny water areas along the way, but for the most part the day was a little boring.
We finally reached Tom Point Creek around 1600. We slowed down and eased our way into the creek. Another sailboat followed us in. We talked on the VHF and found neither one of us had used this anchorage before. About a half mile inside the creek, we found a spot we liked and dropped the hook. The other boat went about 200 yards further and did the same.
As soon as the engine stopped, Buddy was ready to go on deck and check things out. He’s developed a new thing which scares Donna and I both. He goes forward, turns and runs toward the dodger, leaps up on the dodger, then leaps to the bimini and comes to a screeching halt just before he reaches the back of the bimini. If he ever overshoots, my only hope is he sails into the dinghy hanging on the stern.
We both fell asleep in the salon about 2000. I woke up and got us both into the vberth around 2030.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Tom Point Creek, North of Beaufort, SC, MM495
Started: 1100 Stopped: 1615
Distance Traveled: 28 mi
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 495 Statute Miles
The morning was cool and it took a while for the sun to warm things a little. With the short day, we could only hope to make about 30 miles or so and I had picked out an anchorage at about that distance. We had to negotiate a few skinny water areas along the way, but for the most part the day was a little boring.
We finally reached Tom Point Creek around 1600. We slowed down and eased our way into the creek. Another sailboat followed us in. We talked on the VHF and found neither one of us had used this anchorage before. About a half mile inside the creek, we found a spot we liked and dropped the hook. The other boat went about 200 yards further and did the same.
As soon as the engine stopped, Buddy was ready to go on deck and check things out. He’s developed a new thing which scares Donna and I both. He goes forward, turns and runs toward the dodger, leaps up on the dodger, then leaps to the bimini and comes to a screeching halt just before he reaches the back of the bimini. If he ever overshoots, my only hope is he sails into the dinghy hanging on the stern.
We both fell asleep in the salon about 2000. I woke up and got us both into the vberth around 2030.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Tom Point Creek, North of Beaufort, SC, MM495
Started: 1100 Stopped: 1615
Distance Traveled: 28 mi
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 495 Statute Miles
Day 16 - 20, November 23-27, 2009 (Revised)
We’ve been “chillin”, literally. In addition we’ve been entertained by TV, the internet and checking out the mega yachts here. While walking the docks, we found a couple we met during our stay at Dowry Creek. They are from Maryland but are wintering over here at the City Dock. We met and chatted with them a couple of times. Donna took a trip into downtown for some art supplies and a few groceries. It’s good she did as the marina is closed today.
It’s about 0830 and I do see a little sun trying to peek through. Today’s plan is to do a walkabout, have our T-day dinner aboard and do final prep for departure tomorrow. Oops. Time for the walkabout. More to follow.
On Friday we just took it easy in the morning. We had planned to leave, but decided to join the crazies and visit the shopping district. We walked to downtown around 1400 and found the sidewalks full of shoppers and tourists. We walked King and Meeting Streets stopping in a few shops. Around 1630 we took a break and enjoyed a couple of brews. We decided to call the marina for a van pickup only to discover both of us had left our phones in the boat. The waitress loaned us her cell and we called for a ride back. Once back we both took naps and then watched a little late TV.
The plan tomorrow, Saturday, is to time our departure for the ride through Elliott’s Cut, enter the Stono River and continue southward. With luck we should be out of SC and into GA in a couple of days. Stay tuned as more is to come.
Day 16 - Monday November 23, 2009
It was a long night! Most of the night I laid awake on the settee listing to the wind howling in the rigging. When I did fall asleep, it wasn’t for long and then I would get up and check to make sure the anchor was holding.
Sometime between 0300 and 0500, the wind died down some and I slept a little. The “Buddy” alarm didn’t let me sleep too much though. That cat’s stomach would give an atomic clock a run at accuracy tolerances.
Since we are only 17 miles south of Charleston we delay departure to time the arrival, take advantage of the slack tide in the harbor and hopefully let the fog clear out. We get underway about 0840 with only about a 1 mile visibility. I’m trying to time the arrival at the infamous Ben Sawyer Bridge for at 1000 opening.
As we are putt-putting along, the big sailboat from the anchorage passes me and continues onward toward the bridge. To my surprise, the bridge opens and he continues on. I quickly call the bridge and find out they are “on request”…. so much for timing the arrival.
We speed it up, clear the bridge and continue on to Charleston Harbor. Did I mention the fog? Well, it didn’t get better, it got worse. Thank goodness for the chart plotter. The visibility is now less than a quarter mile which is not good in a busy harbor with two main shipping channels. I take us on a course through the commercial anchorage area and setup a quick run across the main channel. From there I paralleled the second channel for a while and then made a quick jump across it into the smaller channel going up the Ashley River.
We arrive at the Charleston City Marina at 1215 and are directed to the first slip on the “J” dock. This is the same slip we spent 5 days in June 2008. Slack tide made it much easier to dock than the last time.
Once we docked, I jumped on two high priority maintenance issues. We discovered our port running light was out while coming through the harbor. A lamp change was an easy fix. The other problem was a screw holding the companion way hinge plate pulled out of the fiberglass. This kept the door form closing properly. It took a bit of effort, but through bolting the hinge will keep that problem from coming back.
After a quick cleanup of the boat and ourselves and we headed for the shuttle stop to take the van downtown for pizza and beer. We went to a favorite we discovered in 2008, the Mellow Mushroom. The food was great and we stuffed ourselves.
By the time we got back to the boat it was already dark so we settled in for the evening. Tonight I will sleep for sure.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Charleston City Marina, Charleston, SC MM469
Started: 0840 Stopped: 1215
Distance Traveled: 17 mi
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 469 Statute Miles
Sometime between 0300 and 0500, the wind died down some and I slept a little. The “Buddy” alarm didn’t let me sleep too much though. That cat’s stomach would give an atomic clock a run at accuracy tolerances.
Since we are only 17 miles south of Charleston we delay departure to time the arrival, take advantage of the slack tide in the harbor and hopefully let the fog clear out. We get underway about 0840 with only about a 1 mile visibility. I’m trying to time the arrival at the infamous Ben Sawyer Bridge for at 1000 opening.
As we are putt-putting along, the big sailboat from the anchorage passes me and continues onward toward the bridge. To my surprise, the bridge opens and he continues on. I quickly call the bridge and find out they are “on request”…. so much for timing the arrival.
We arrive at the Charleston City Marina at 1215 and are directed to the first slip on the “J” dock. This is the same slip we spent 5 days in June 2008. Slack tide made it much easier to dock than the last time.
Once we docked, I jumped on two high priority maintenance issues. We discovered our port running light was out while coming through the harbor. A lamp change was an easy fix. The other problem was a screw holding the companion way hinge plate pulled out of the fiberglass. This kept the door form closing properly. It took a bit of effort, but through bolting the hinge will keep that problem from coming back.
After a quick cleanup of the boat and ourselves and we headed for the shuttle stop to take the van downtown for pizza and beer. We went to a favorite we discovered in 2008, the Mellow Mushroom. The food was great and we stuffed ourselves.
By the time we got back to the boat it was already dark so we settled in for the evening. Tonight I will sleep for sure.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Charleston City Marina, Charleston, SC MM469
Started: 0840 Stopped: 1215
Distance Traveled: 17 mi
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 469 Statute Miles
Day 15 - Sunday November 22, 2009
What's that noise? Oh yeah, it's an real alarm clock, not the usual "Buddy alarm". I set the infernal thing so we could get an early run out of Jericho Creek. The mouth of the creek appeared to be shoaled in more than what I remembered of the 2007 trip. I wanted to be out before the tide reached full low, plus it would give us some push down to Georgetown, SC and Winyah Bay.
Despite the 0530 alarm, it was 0715 before we raised the anchor. We eased over the bar at the creek entrance with a couple of feet to spare and headed southward. We rode the tide boost a while but lost it as we passed Georgetown.
Seems like cloudy, damp and cold mornings make travel seem slower than it already is. We push on down the Winyah Bay and enter the Esterville Minim Creek Canal. This is another man-made cut that scares the heck out of you at low tide. We’re fortunate to be passing on the rising tide. We have spotty rain as we move through the North and South Santee rivers. The only thing that breaks the monotony is the occasional powerboat wanting to pass us. By the time we are nearing forty miles of travel, the rain is more of a nuisance. The plan was to stop in Graham Creek, but there was real shallow water at the entrance so we decided to proceed on. That decision was met with heavier rain and increased wind, naturally! We pushed on another 12 miles to Whiteside Creek.
One sailboat was already anchored in the prime spot so we went around the bend and attempted to anchor. After two unsuccessful attempts to get the Danforth to set, we moved back to the first leg of the creek and anchored just up stream of the other sailboat. Shortly afterward another sailboat anchored just off the other boat’s stern.
It was raining pretty good and the wind was 15 gusting to 20 knots. This creek is totally exposed with nothing but marsh grass all around. After two failed anchor sets, my anxiety level about our location was maxed out . It was getting dark so we’re stuck with this place.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Whiteside Creek, SC MM452
Started: 0645 Stopped: 1630
Distance Traveled: 56 mi Avg Speed 6.4 mph
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 452 Statute Miles
Despite the 0530 alarm, it was 0715 before we raised the anchor. We eased over the bar at the creek entrance with a couple of feet to spare and headed southward. We rode the tide boost a while but lost it as we passed Georgetown.
Seems like cloudy, damp and cold mornings make travel seem slower than it already is. We push on down the Winyah Bay and enter the Esterville Minim Creek Canal. This is another man-made cut that scares the heck out of you at low tide. We’re fortunate to be passing on the rising tide. We have spotty rain as we move through the North and South Santee rivers. The only thing that breaks the monotony is the occasional powerboat wanting to pass us. By the time we are nearing forty miles of travel, the rain is more of a nuisance. The plan was to stop in Graham Creek, but there was real shallow water at the entrance so we decided to proceed on. That decision was met with heavier rain and increased wind, naturally! We pushed on another 12 miles to Whiteside Creek.
One sailboat was already anchored in the prime spot so we went around the bend and attempted to anchor. After two unsuccessful attempts to get the Danforth to set, we moved back to the first leg of the creek and anchored just up stream of the other sailboat. Shortly afterward another sailboat anchored just off the other boat’s stern.
It was raining pretty good and the wind was 15 gusting to 20 knots. This creek is totally exposed with nothing but marsh grass all around. After two failed anchor sets, my anxiety level about our location was maxed out . It was getting dark so we’re stuck with this place.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Whiteside Creek, SC MM452
Started: 0645 Stopped: 1630
Distance Traveled: 56 mi Avg Speed 6.4 mph
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 452 Statute Miles
Day 14 - Saturday November 21, 2009
Today’s destination? I know I said Jericho Creek, but who knows! To be sure it will be an anchorage some where southward. We take advantage of the shore power and have a nice hot breakfast and too much coffee. We pull away from the pier at 0725 and continue the run through the “Rockpile”. The day is kind of uneventful except for a delay at the Socastee Bridge. It’s supposed to be an on demand bridge, but the bridge tender kept us waiting for almost 30 minutes.
Once past Enterprise Landing, we entered the usually beautiful Wacammaw River. Today some of the beauty was muted. The overcast day and cool temperature made everything seem dreary.
By 1500 we had reached the “where do we stop” decision point. Jericho Creek looked mighty inviting so we pulled off to starboard and entered. A little more shoaling at the mouth, but once we got into the creek the water was deep almost to the banks. We dropped the hook about a half mile up the creek hoping for a quiet evening. A local’s gun range could be heard in the distance and thoughts of the movie “Deliverance” popped into my head. At dusk the range quit and we were alone in the dark.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Jericho Creek, SC MM395
Started: 0725 Stopped: 1506
Distance Traveled: 43.1 mi Max Speed 7.3 mph
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 395 Statute Miles
Once past Enterprise Landing, we entered the usually beautiful Wacammaw River. Today some of the beauty was muted. The overcast day and cool temperature made everything seem dreary.
By 1500 we had reached the “where do we stop” decision point. Jericho Creek looked mighty inviting so we pulled off to starboard and entered. A little more shoaling at the mouth, but once we got into the creek the water was deep almost to the banks. We dropped the hook about a half mile up the creek hoping for a quiet evening. A local’s gun range could be heard in the distance and thoughts of the movie “Deliverance” popped into my head. At dusk the range quit and we were alone in the dark.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Jericho Creek, SC MM395
Started: 0725 Stopped: 1506
Distance Traveled: 43.1 mi Max Speed 7.3 mph
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 395 Statute Miles
Day 13 - Friday, Nov 20th, 2009
It was a little cool first thing but it warmed up nicely. We caught the tide right for easy passage of two troublesome inlets, Lockwoods Folly and Shallote Inlets. We motor sailed with the jib and were making good time until we got to Little River Inlet where we met it’s out going current. From there to Barefoot Landing we fought a horrific current. At one point we were reduced to 3.6 mph. Because of the current, we made it to Barefoot Landing an hour and a half later than our original projected arrival. Along the way we saw two shipwrecks from some earlier storm.
We arrived at 1630 and got the next to the last dock space for today. We elected to forego the Outlet Traps and just spend the evening on the boat. After dinner, Donna is watching some TV and I am writing this blog/log entry.
Tomorrow’s destination is Jericho Creek which is off the Waccamaw River south of Myrtle Beach.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Barefoot Landing, Myrtle Beach, NC MM354
Started: 0830 Stopped: 1630
Distance Traveled: 43 mi
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 358 Statute Miles
Day 12 - Thursday, Nov 19th, 2009
Started coffee around 0600. The destination for today is Southport. We waited until 0815 to time the tide in the Cape Fear River. High tide at Southport was about 0930 so we are hoping to arrive at slack water. That means running the current, but it will be decreasing as we approach Southport. The plan is to stop at the Southport Marina, do the laundry and shower thing and head to Wally World (Wal-Mart) to restock some groceries.
Out in Snows Cut, the current helped carry us to the river. The run across to the main channel was not as scary as the last time we transited the river. We did encounter a dredge and had to detour around that operation. When we reached the main channel, we were able to motor sail with the jib. We also had to dodge a large tanker headed up river to Wilmington. We arrived at the Southport Marina around 1130, fueled up, did a pumpout and then moved to a slip for the day.
By the time we cleaned the boat a little, we decided to take a cab to Wally World. BTW, cabs are not quick in this territory. Once back at the boat we stowed the groceries and made dinner. Then it was off to the showers and laundry to finish out the day. And you thought this was a glamorous way of life!
Tomorrow's destination: Myrtle Beach, SC
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Southport Marina, Southport, NC MM310
Started: 0815 Stopped: 1130
Distance Traveled: 15 mi
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 315 Statute Miles
Out in Snows Cut, the current helped carry us to the river. The run across to the main channel was not as scary as the last time we transited the river. We did encounter a dredge and had to detour around that operation. When we reached the main channel, we were able to motor sail with the jib. We also had to dodge a large tanker headed up river to Wilmington. We arrived at the Southport Marina around 1130, fueled up, did a pumpout and then moved to a slip for the day.
By the time we cleaned the boat a little, we decided to take a cab to Wally World. BTW, cabs are not quick in this territory. Once back at the boat we stowed the groceries and made dinner. Then it was off to the showers and laundry to finish out the day. And you thought this was a glamorous way of life!
Tomorrow's destination: Myrtle Beach, SC
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Southport Marina, Southport, NC MM310
Started: 0815 Stopped: 1130
Distance Traveled: 15 mi
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 315 Statute Miles
Day 11 - Wednesday, Nov 18th, 2009
Up at 0550 to answer the Buddy alarm clock; he wants to be fed earlier and earlier. The switch back to standard time doesn’t work with him. A small rain squall came through around 0300. The noise woke me and I immediately started checking to make sure the anchor wasn’t dragging. Gusts peaked at 24 kn and the whole thing was over in about an hour. As things calmed down, I laid down on the settee and slept until Buddy started his wake up routine.
Destination today is Carolina Beach anchorage at MM295. That means a fifty mile day with several inlets to pass. These inlets are a pain as the tidal currents there help on one side and slow you on the other. In addition, many are shoaling which means timing passage at mid to high tide. We tried to time our arrival at three bridges today, but we arrive early at all due to wind and current. The Surf City Bridge passage went without incident, but the Figure Eight Island Bridge was another story. Wind and current had us moving at 4+mph while idling in neutral so there was lots of the old wait for the bridge dancing going on. At the Wrightsville Beach Bridge condition were even worse and one sailboat went aground while doing the dance.
After those bridges, the next obstacle was the shoaling at the Carolina Beach Inlet. We arrived at near low tide. We hugged the “greens” and still found 5-6’ of water. It was even worse in mid channel and red side. I went outside the greens to find 7-10 of water and was able to pass the inlet and Towboat US trying to free a grounded sailboat in mid channel.
It was a short distance from there to the anchorage. We anchored in 17’ of water and settled in quickly as a rain shower put an end to the day.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Carolina Beach Anchorage, MM295
Started: 0715 Stopped: 1705
Distance Traveled: 51.8 mi
Destination today is Carolina Beach anchorage at MM295. That means a fifty mile day with several inlets to pass. These inlets are a pain as the tidal currents there help on one side and slow you on the other. In addition, many are shoaling which means timing passage at mid to high tide. We tried to time our arrival at three bridges today, but we arrive early at all due to wind and current. The Surf City Bridge passage went without incident, but the Figure Eight Island Bridge was another story. Wind and current had us moving at 4+mph while idling in neutral so there was lots of the old wait for the bridge dancing going on. At the Wrightsville Beach Bridge condition were even worse and one sailboat went aground while doing the dance.
After those bridges, the next obstacle was the shoaling at the Carolina Beach Inlet. We arrived at near low tide. We hugged the “greens” and still found 5-6’ of water. It was even worse in mid channel and red side. I went outside the greens to find 7-10 of water and was able to pass the inlet and Towboat US trying to free a grounded sailboat in mid channel.
It was a short distance from there to the anchorage. We anchored in 17’ of water and settled in quickly as a rain shower put an end to the day.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Carolina Beach Anchorage, MM295
Started: 0715 Stopped: 1705
Distance Traveled: 51.8 mi
Day 10 - Tuesday, Nov 17th, 2009
Started coffee around 0540. The destination for today is Mile Hammock Bay or further if possible. The tide was running strong so we waited for Ajaya (Phil & Nicki) to pull out first. Once they were out, it was a lot safer for us to pull away from the pier. Back out in the Intracoastal, the tide helped push us along for a while. The fog settled in a little more and visibility lessened. The wind picked up and we motor sailed, but the wind with the high humidity made it feel much cooler than it was.
Donna went below and stayed a while to get warm and use the air card Internet connection. We lost the tide’s help and lost speed as we continued on to Swansboro.
We were approaching the Onslow area when a US Navy patrol vessel stopped all traffic and instructed us to anchor. The Marines were conducting live-fire weapons maneuvers and the waterway was closed. After almost an hour we were told to proceed on and seven boats raced to catch the 1300 opening of the Onslow swing bridge.
We arrived at Mile Hammock Bay about 1415 and were anchored by 1430. We might have made it further today, but this place fills up fast as there isn’t another anchorage for 15+ miles. There are eight boats riding at anchor already and its just 1615.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Mile Hammock Bay, NC. MM244, N34°33.051’ W77° 19.542’
Started: 0645 Stopped: 1430
Distance Traveled: 41.4 mi, Max Spd 9.3 mph, Avg Spd: 5.7 mph
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 244 Statute Miles
Donna went below and stayed a while to get warm and use the air card Internet connection. We lost the tide’s help and lost speed as we continued on to Swansboro.
We were approaching the Onslow area when a US Navy patrol vessel stopped all traffic and instructed us to anchor. The Marines were conducting live-fire weapons maneuvers and the waterway was closed. After almost an hour we were told to proceed on and seven boats raced to catch the 1300 opening of the Onslow swing bridge.
We arrived at Mile Hammock Bay about 1415 and were anchored by 1430. We might have made it further today, but this place fills up fast as there isn’t another anchorage for 15+ miles. There are eight boats riding at anchor already and its just 1615.
Today’s Tech Stuff:
Location: Mile Hammock Bay, NC. MM244, N34°33.051’ W77° 19.542’
Started: 0645 Stopped: 1430
Distance Traveled: 41.4 mi, Max Spd 9.3 mph, Avg Spd: 5.7 mph
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 244 Statute Miles
Day 9 - Monday, Nov 16th, 2009
I’m up at 0600 and got the coffee going. After that, the day started out wrong. I climbed in to the cockpit and found the boat wasn’t lying to the wind, in-fact we were 180° out from the 4 other boats in the creek. I took a quick look for the anchor trip line buoy and it was nowhere to be found. Upon further investigation I realized the buoy was under the boat and hung between the prop an the rudder. It, would not budge for anything. Into the dinghy I went and was able to pull enough of the line to the surface and cut the line. A few more minutes of boat hook fishing and the buoy was retrieved. We got underway at 0815, well behind the other boats in our group.
We had a nice motor sail down to Adams Creek but had to wait on a CG buoy tender to enter the creek first. Moving through the Adams Cr Canal, we picked up the outgoing tide and were making 8.8 mph. We arrived in Morehead City and passed two of the Dowry Creek gang at Portside Marina (Al & Jennifer and George, Kathy & Ben). We proceeded on to the Sanitary Restaurant and took one of the cheap alongside slips. We were docked around 1330. Shortly afterward, Phil & Nicki Hoskins (the British couple) came in and docked at the restaurant too. We took a walk around the waterfront and then had dinner with Phil & Nicki at the restaurant. Afterward we walked down to Portside Marina and visited with the others.
Location: Morehead City, NC. Dockside at the Sanitary Restaurant. MM205
Started: 0815 Stopped: 1330
Distance Traveled: 30 mi, Max Spd 8.8 mph, Avg Spd: 6.1 mph
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 205 Statute Miles
Everyone was tired so we headed back to the boats. Donna and I were asleep before 2200.
We had a nice motor sail down to Adams Creek but had to wait on a CG buoy tender to enter the creek first. Moving through the Adams Cr Canal, we picked up the outgoing tide and were making 8.8 mph. We arrived in Morehead City and passed two of the Dowry Creek gang at Portside Marina (Al & Jennifer and George, Kathy & Ben). We proceeded on to the Sanitary Restaurant and took one of the cheap alongside slips. We were docked around 1330. Shortly afterward, Phil & Nicki Hoskins (the British couple) came in and docked at the restaurant too. We took a walk around the waterfront and then had dinner with Phil & Nicki at the restaurant. Afterward we walked down to Portside Marina and visited with the others.
Location: Morehead City, NC. Dockside at the Sanitary Restaurant. MM205
Started: 0815 Stopped: 1330
Distance Traveled: 30 mi, Max Spd 8.8 mph, Avg Spd: 6.1 mph
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 205 Statute Miles
Everyone was tired so we headed back to the boats. Donna and I were asleep before 2200.
Day 8 - Sunday, Nov 15th, 2009
It’s another miserable cloudy wet morning with some fog, but we are determined to get this boat underway again. We were supposed to be 3rd in line to do a pump-out this morning, but just as we started leaving the slip some transient boat from out of nowhere pulled up to the dock leaving us with no place to go. It was either wait around for him to refuel or whatever he was going to do or just proceed on. Since is was already 8AM we elected to proceed on.
Out in the Pungo River it was even cooler and more damp. We motored on and the sun finally started to peek through around 11AM. As the day progressed the temperature rose, the sun shone brightly and a little wind helped us along. We finally reached the Neuse river and made our way down to MM175 where we pulled into Broad Creek and then into Burton Creek. This place has been a favorite anchorage for us since we rode out the remnants of Hurricane Noel back in 2007.
We dropped the hook about 3PM, kicked back and enjoyed a couple of brews. Donna was fixing supper when a hoard of mosquitoes tried to invade the boat. A few got in before we got the boat secured, but we managed to kill them later.
After dinner, I poked on the computer to get this log done and then we watched a little TV.
Location: Just North of Oriental, NC in Burton Creek.
N35 05.660 W76 36.454
Started: 0800 Stopped: 1507
Distance Traveled: 45 mi, Max Spd 7.9 mph, Avg Spd: 6.4 mph
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 180.5 Statute Miles
Out in the Pungo River it was even cooler and more damp. We motored on and the sun finally started to peek through around 11AM. As the day progressed the temperature rose, the sun shone brightly and a little wind helped us along. We finally reached the Neuse river and made our way down to MM175 where we pulled into Broad Creek and then into Burton Creek. This place has been a favorite anchorage for us since we rode out the remnants of Hurricane Noel back in 2007.
We dropped the hook about 3PM, kicked back and enjoyed a couple of brews. Donna was fixing supper when a hoard of mosquitoes tried to invade the boat. A few got in before we got the boat secured, but we managed to kill them later.
After dinner, I poked on the computer to get this log done and then we watched a little TV.
Location: Just North of Oriental, NC in Burton Creek.
N35 05.660 W76 36.454
Started: 0800 Stopped: 1507
Distance Traveled: 45 mi, Max Spd 7.9 mph, Avg Spd: 6.4 mph
Total Distance Traveled to Date: 180.5 Statute Miles
Days 5,6,7
Days 5 & 6 were pretty nasty. Lots of wind and rain. The rain finally tapered down to a heavy bone chilling mist late yesterday and today. This afternoon is cool and the wind has clocked around to the WNW to NW and dropped in speed to about 12 knots and gusting 16+.
All the transient boaters and Mary, the Marina owner, piled in to several vehicles and went into Belhaven for dinner last night. We dined at George's Sport & Oyster Bar, nothing fancy, but obviously a locals' favorite. Seafood was either grilled or steamed, no deep fry stuff here. Hatteras style clam chowder was steamy good, but a little heavy on the potato. The grilled Crab Cake sandwich was tasty, but not as spicy as I like it. I guess I should have ordered it with the Jamaican sauce. We all returned to the boaters' lounge for after dinner libations and conversation.
Day 7 - We're all sitting it out today hoping the Neuse R. will settle down as the winds decrease. The women folk have a group pot luck dinner planned for the evening meal.
Day 4 - Nov 11, 2009
No one was going anywhere today by boat. One more boat did come in from an anchorage. They were happy to be off the hook and tied to a dock. A couple of boaters went into Belhaven and dined at a local restaurant. Most of us stayed on the boats, surfed the internet, read books or cat napped a lot.
Riding out the wind and rain has not been bad, but it hasn't been pleasant either. The piers here are almost ninety degrees to the wind so we are near broadside to the wind. The winds right now are 25 and gusting so we have a pretty good heel right here in the slip. When the gusts hit, the shrouds pump, vibrate and make a racket which is irritating at times. Unfortunately the forecast is for more of the same.
On the positive side, we have do electricity so the little heater is keeping things toasty in the salon as we surf the web and watch TV. This is a tough lifestyle.
This evening we enjoyed a happy hour and pot luck dinner with the other boaters. There was a couple from England, two couples from Canada, a family of 5 including 3 small kids from a sailboat, and two other retired couples. Donna fixed a big pot of mac & cheese casserole with sausage and pork & beans added. The kids loved it, actually the adults did too because there wasn't any leftovers. Everyone finally donned their foul weather gear and headed back to the boats around 2130.
For those of you following along, I'm sorry there are no pictures today. The camera is stashed away, hopefully safe and dry.
Riding out the wind and rain has not been bad, but it hasn't been pleasant either. The piers here are almost ninety degrees to the wind so we are near broadside to the wind. The winds right now are 25 and gusting so we have a pretty good heel right here in the slip. When the gusts hit, the shrouds pump, vibrate and make a racket which is irritating at times. Unfortunately the forecast is for more of the same.
On the positive side, we have do electricity so the little heater is keeping things toasty in the salon as we surf the web and watch TV. This is a tough lifestyle.
This evening we enjoyed a happy hour and pot luck dinner with the other boaters. There was a couple from England, two couples from Canada, a family of 5 including 3 small kids from a sailboat, and two other retired couples. Donna fixed a big pot of mac & cheese casserole with sausage and pork & beans added. The kids loved it, actually the adults did too because there wasn't any leftovers. Everyone finally donned their foul weather gear and headed back to the boats around 2130.
For those of you following along, I'm sorry there are no pictures today. The camera is stashed away, hopefully safe and dry.
Day 3 - Nov 10, 2009
The weather is predicted to start getting bad later in the day and progressively get worse over the next couple of days. Our usual fifty mile day will put us in an area without secure anchorages or marinas. With this in mind we opt to start a little late, move about 30-35 miles and go to a marina.
It was overcast with light winds as we entered the Alligator-Pungo Canal. At the end of the 20+ mile canal, the winds were already blowing 15 mph and gusting from the east. Once out of the canal the wind allowed me to roll out the jib and motor sail in the Pungo River for a while. We decided to pull into Dowry Creek Marina at mile 132 since we visited there in 2008 and really enjoyed the stay.
By 1315 we were secure at the dock and enjoyed some down time and the availability of wifi. With cell phone and wifi working again, we were able to catch up on emails and then attended an impromptu happy hour in the boaters lounge.
We're back on the boat for the evening. Everything has been secured and we are awaiting the wind and rain that is supposed to start after midnight.
Buddy is not happy as he is not allowed on deck in the marina. He has a tendency to jump to the dock, run down the pier and hop aboard any high dollar trawler.
Here' the specs for today:
Departed: 0745 Stopped: 1320
Location: MM 132, Dowry Creek Marina, Pungo River
Distance Traveled: 27 mi
Tomorrow's Destination: Undecided, depends on the weather.
It was overcast with light winds as we entered the Alligator-Pungo Canal. At the end of the 20+ mile canal, the winds were already blowing 15 mph and gusting from the east. Once out of the canal the wind allowed me to roll out the jib and motor sail in the Pungo River for a while. We decided to pull into Dowry Creek Marina at mile 132 since we visited there in 2008 and really enjoyed the stay.
By 1315 we were secure at the dock and enjoyed some down time and the availability of wifi. With cell phone and wifi working again, we were able to catch up on emails and then attended an impromptu happy hour in the boaters lounge.
We're back on the boat for the evening. Everything has been secured and we are awaiting the wind and rain that is supposed to start after midnight.
Buddy is not happy as he is not allowed on deck in the marina. He has a tendency to jump to the dock, run down the pier and hop aboard any high dollar trawler.
Here' the specs for today:
Departed: 0745 Stopped: 1320
Location: MM 132, Dowry Creek Marina, Pungo River
Distance Traveled: 27 mi
Tomorrow's Destination: Undecided, depends on the weather.
Day Two - Nov 9, 2009
We had a great run across the Albemarle Sound and into the Alligator River. Despite all the fuss about the shoaling and relocated marks on entering the Alligator, we just followed the marks and had no problems. We really hoped to make it to the Pungo River today, but there just wasn't enough daylight so we stopped off Tuckahoe Point in the Alligator River. There was only one boat there when we arrived, but by the time we were anchored and had a glass of wine, there were seven anchored for the evening.
Specs on the day:
Departed: 0645 Stopped: 1507
Location: MM105, Tuckahoe Point, Alligator River, NC N35°40.298' W76°05.698' Depth 7.5'
Distance Traveled: 49 mi Average Speed: 5.7 mph
Tomorrow's Destination: Undecided, depends on the weather.
Departure Day - Nov 8, 2009
We slept onboard so we could get away early. Friends and family showed up as we were about to leave so we finally shoved off around 0715. Out in the Elizabeth R. the race was on to keep up the pace and match the bridge openings. Gilmerton and North Landing bridges kept us waiting a little, but otherwise the bridges and lock transit was good. We did miss Donna's parents at the Great Bridge Lock and my sister at Pungo. It was a beautiful day for going south. We got a glimpse of a beautiful eagle perched in a tree along the waterway. We couldn't get the camera fast enough so the picture is a long distance shot.
Here, the first real trial of the new windlass and chain worked well.
Specs on the day:
Departed: 0715 Stopped: 1720
Location: MM 56, Buck Is, North River, NC N36°16.024' W75°57.391' Depth 6.0'
Distance Traveled: 57 mi Average Speed: 5.7 mph
Tomorrow's Destination: Entrance of the Alligator R.-Pungo R. Canal
Pre-Departure Activities
Today has been a whirlwind day. It has been a long day too, loading everything on the boat, finding time to attend the Portsmouth Boat Club Oyster Roast, and getting Buddy on board and settled. We're sleeping on board tonight in hopes of getting an early start. Tomorrow's the big day and the weather forcast looks good. Good night all.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)