Today, I pulled a classic. I forgot to untie a line and then tried to leave the slip. Oh, well, if the weather guessers can keep getting it wrong, I guess I’m entitled to screw up too.
Ok, the second attempt to depart was more successful. Back in the ICW, we rode the outgoing tide down to Ponce de Leon Inlet with good speed. As always, we got the reverse effect as we passed the inlet. I rolled out the jib and it did help overcome some of the effects of the adverse current there.
We departed the Halifax River and continued on through Mosquito Lagoon. The wind was increasing as we went. Actually it would have been great sailing except for keeping the boat within the confines of the dredged channel. Go outside the channel and you’ve got trouble big time. By the time we were half way down the lagoon, the combination of wind and fetch had things really churned up. At this point, Otto (autopilot) became useless and manual helm was required.
We reached the Haul Over Canal and proceed through the bridge into the Indian River. There was a brief respite from the wind in the short canal due to trees on both sides. As we crossed the Indian River over to the western shore, the wind and fetch nailed us and things got uncomfortable again. The wind was now out of the north at 20 kt and gusting on the port quarter. A weather check told us that anchoring was out for the night. We called and got a slip at Titusville Municipal Marina. Seems like every time we pass this area we get forced into this marina by foul weather.
We are docked at 1530, but not without difficulties. As I write this entry, the wind is still out of the north at 20+ and is expected to last until late tomorrow morning. The boat is really rocking and Buddy is not happy. So much for the forecasted east at 5-10. Wonder what the weather guessers have in store for us tomorrow.
Oh well, two brews, chips and salsa and everything will be all right. I guess we’re better off than those trying to travel in the blizzards in the north.
Location: Titusville Municipal Marina, Titusville, FL MM 878
Started: 0745 Stopped: 1515
Distance Traveled: 49 mi
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