tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53888651649340166672024-02-19T07:06:41.713-08:00SundogboatbuildingPhotos and commentary documenting my boat building and sailing adventures.Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-64766143371137126392019-09-15T09:21:00.000-07:002020-07-25T18:20:29.451-07:00Sailing to Nantucket 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
August 19, 2019</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I left Point Judith Pond just at dawn. There was a light southwest wind. The current in the breach way would be at maximum flood at 8:45am. The sooner I could get to the breach way the less current I would have to sail against. If I couldn't make it out I would have to delay my departure a few hours until after the current eased. I was beginning my 225 nautical mile trip from Point Judith to Nantucket and back. I was already juggling currents and schedules. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My plan was to sail up Vineyard Sound between the Elizabeth Islands and Martha's Vineyard to Tarpaulin Cove. The next day I would sail around the northern end of Martha's Vineyard and into Nantucket Sound. Day three would be a sail across Nantucket Sound to the Island of Nantucket.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindgkgV2AconztONTYPa7Z0SSGRGlZtkg2pnMH9S8m9bulGxQPxlemW1XaXihfWppa00QlI9Wy3IDtpCPkVpKcRtyIxGs6vJFNP1ObCb4SgkO9snK1676KK1kooc9h7hn4s07If90y7Fk/s1600/Point+Judith+to+Nantucker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindgkgV2AconztONTYPa7Z0SSGRGlZtkg2pnMH9S8m9bulGxQPxlemW1XaXihfWppa00QlI9Wy3IDtpCPkVpKcRtyIxGs6vJFNP1ObCb4SgkO9snK1676KK1kooc9h7hn4s07If90y7Fk/s400/Point+Judith+to+Nantucker.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GPS Track 2019 Trip to Nantucket</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The currents in Vineyard Sound and Nantucket Sound often run 3 or 4 knots. That may not sound like much just a brisk walking pace and to a power boat not of much consequence. In my sailboat without an engine that amount of current could easily bring me to a halt or push me back. When I reached the Point Judith breach way the current was rushing in and I wanted to sail out. Not quite at max but getting there. I was close hauled to the wind which was partially blocked by the buildings surrounding the gut. I snuck out by hugging the eddies that are close to the rock walls of the breach way. Once free of the breach way I could run before the wind on a course for Tarpaulin Cove on Naushon Island.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The tidal range around the Martha's Vineyard and southern Cape Cod is a fairly modest 3 to 4 feet. Yet the currents in and around the islands are strong. And sometimes the direction of those currents have not made sense to me. But now I think I am beginning to understand. The currents of Nantucket Sound are driven not only by the rising and falling of the tides in the area, they are driven primarily by changes in the ocean level in the Gulf of Maine and the Mid Atlantic Bight. Cape Cod divides these two areas that have dramatically different tidal ranges and times.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I found this neat Giff put together by someone at the University of Massachusetts School for Marine Science and Technology.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIg4EGd9bty3ZMdoca1EPXFZWEN6Idn6j9UJu1KjrQbY8c6_2xjWsiAQVGiBje95mZHALwSPPaoitCcEiH8pJdhJ8HadxnuJLB7eGnD68yAWaP2zRn_jz17Nh7OQ6xaBMVc9WBwfgLJdU/s1600/tide1a+Currents+Nantucket.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="248" data-original-width="300" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIg4EGd9bty3ZMdoca1EPXFZWEN6Idn6j9UJu1KjrQbY8c6_2xjWsiAQVGiBje95mZHALwSPPaoitCcEiH8pJdhJ8HadxnuJLB7eGnD68yAWaP2zRn_jz17Nh7OQ6xaBMVc9WBwfgLJdU/s400/tide1a+Currents+Nantucket.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The arrows indicate direction and strength of the tidal current flow. At the same time water is flowing into the eastern end of Nantucket Sound water is flowing out between Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. The only explanation can be that water is sloshing back and forth around Cape Cod between the Gulf of Maine and the Mid Atlantic Bight. This makes navigating the area in a sailboat look like a nightmare. The Giff though is playing a six hour tide cycle in just a couple of seconds so it is not as bad as it looks. Still sailing between the islands can take a few hours and in that time the currents can reverse. You can start a crossing with the current in your favor but the tides are apt to turn before you reach your destination. Sailor beware. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I want to bring up another issue, water depth. My boat draws about 4 feet of water with the centerboard down and only about 6 inches with the board all the way up. There are a lot of shoals in Nantucket Sound but most of them have a water depth greater than four feet. So you might think that water depth would not be much of a concern for me except for two other factors, currents and waves. Currents accelerate when they are forced over shoals. Ocean swells rise and steepen when they reach shallow water. Waves also rise and steepen when they meet an opposing current. In Nantucket Sound conditions can go from manageable to treacherous pretty quickly.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had a smooth crossing from Point Judith to Tarpaulin Cove. The wind was modest and from abaft the beam. The only issue was some fog that would occasionally drop the visibility to around 1/2 mile. Numerous large cargo ships ply these same waters going in and out of Narragansett Bay and up Buzzards Bay to the Cape Cod canal. I kept a sharp eye out for them and tried to spend the minimum time in the marked shipping channels. The fog cleared by the time I made it to Cutty Hunk and I was having a peaceful sail up Vineyard Sound when the main sprit boom suddenly dropped to the deck.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hove to and went forward to find the block holding the sprit to the main mast had chaffed through. I was able to repair it easily with some spare line, but it made me wonder if I should have checked the rigging more closely.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After a quiet night in Tarpaulin Cove I set off early. The current in Vineyard Sound would be running against me until 9am but I wanted to take advantage of the northwest breeze which would fade later in the day. As I sailed out of the cove wing and wing and somewhat by the lee I crossed just astern of a sloop sailing close hauled. Her skipper called out to me that Skorpa looked like she was designed for that point of sail. With her sails spread wide before the wind she was cutting into the current with a bone in her teeth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By the time I got to West Chop, one of the headlands on the northern side of Martha's Vineyard the wind had grown light and the tide had begun to flood strongly. The water was flowing under me almost as fast as I was moving so I had very little steerage. I was like a little stick floating down the river drifting between West Chop and East Chop. One of the ferries cutting across in front of me on its way into Vineyard Haven blasted her horn at a power boat that was in her way. The little power boat opened her throttle and sped out of the way. I had no such option. I was glad I wasn't a few minutes earlier or the ferry a few minites later.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The current was so strong and the ferry traffic so heavy I made a mental note to consider returning by another route. The wind had grown light and it was getting late in the day. I knew there was no way I could make it all the way to Nantucket so I started looking for a place to anchor for the night. I was not inclined to go into Edgartown, though I am sure it has plenty of yachts and moorings. Nearby is the shallow and secluded Cape Poge Bay on Chappaquiddick Island and that is where I headed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYiKDIiMI6S0OH6XFamb3FjytoZn6_mLPlZ8DWnFaZFnhX6M6D_lRZ7k9W_D7p_W64sq57Axp-S2MpviDBRM13kN8ZtcGNcEiA7fR6xzxqPlQXcnKTUxWxMeAFOgGnmdwE2HPaFzxbGMc/s1600/P8201007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYiKDIiMI6S0OH6XFamb3FjytoZn6_mLPlZ8DWnFaZFnhX6M6D_lRZ7k9W_D7p_W64sq57Axp-S2MpviDBRM13kN8ZtcGNcEiA7fR6xzxqPlQXcnKTUxWxMeAFOgGnmdwE2HPaFzxbGMc/s320/P8201007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I found a snug little bay nestled up against a marsh and some barrier dunes not far from the Cape Poge Light.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAD1ievGGCaOJRCKFsiHDFeAltmbNtEmnEvewKYxvierL-UQFeRiCPJNGOjVnVv096i5Wo-WyLXtDEk6WyrYn-6AtTz4XeC5lWHAygCvNeqHFZIBryVp-NqD1VqH4obIdLrFNmmGJTZAA/s1600/P8201009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAD1ievGGCaOJRCKFsiHDFeAltmbNtEmnEvewKYxvierL-UQFeRiCPJNGOjVnVv096i5Wo-WyLXtDEk6WyrYn-6AtTz4XeC5lWHAygCvNeqHFZIBryVp-NqD1VqH4obIdLrFNmmGJTZAA/s320/P8201009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I walked along the edge of the marsh in a couple of feet of water bringing my boat with me. Schools of minnows darted in the clear water fainting and turning hundreds moving as one.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi49dysWhdxQoOS3bWxpX_oR0R7LI2ZTFe-g1lfkmvCAYFHsKr8SvHhifABVYRIUJQSi_5Vcd_2pYQh4GSXKlduTgcf_WCSx-OJUS-6mDhLiNf46s7hnZ-fSDuucemxFgjapfI6BgpZ0f8/s1600/P8201000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi49dysWhdxQoOS3bWxpX_oR0R7LI2ZTFe-g1lfkmvCAYFHsKr8SvHhifABVYRIUJQSi_5Vcd_2pYQh4GSXKlduTgcf_WCSx-OJUS-6mDhLiNf46s7hnZ-fSDuucemxFgjapfI6BgpZ0f8/s320/P8201000.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Cape Poge Light sits on a lonely area of sand and woods looking out on Nantucket Sound.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I wanted an early start for the crossing to Nantucket so I breakfasted and dressed while it was still dark and I raised sail while a few stars were still in the sky. The weather forecast called for a chance of thunderstorms. I reasoned they most likely would come later in the day, so an early start would get me to Nantucket before they arrived. The sky was clear with a light wind from the southwest. Far off on the western horizon I could see frequent flashes of lightning.<br />
<br />
After I rounded Cape Poge I could see there was very little ocean swell. I decided to run straight across the shoals between Chappaquiddick and Nantucket. As I approached Howes Shoal, Norton Shoal and Long Shoal I could see eddy lines and changes in the wave patterns. On my GPS I can access stations that give current speed and direction for a number of locations. I checked the station located in a channel between Long Shoal and Norton Shoal. I had a current of 1.4 knots flowing 114 degrees Magnetic, roughly along my course. Passing over the shoals I could at times see bottom but I am unsure of the depth around 10 feet I would guess. I find it difficult to judge water depth because a variation in water clarity can throw off your estimate by a lot.<br />
<br />
By the time I passed Tuckernuck Shoal my attention was drawn to the darkening sky off to the southwest. It was around 10 or 10:30am and I was still about 6 miles from Nantucket. I tuned into the marine weather forecast. They were announcing a severe thunderstorm warning for the area and urged all mariners to seek safe harbor. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By 11am the clouds had darkened and lowered. They had a strange greenish color and were dramatically three dimensional. I abandoned my plan to reach Nantucket harbor before the storm hit but hoped I could reach within a mile or so of the shore where the water was about 20 feet deep and I could anchor and lower my sails and wait out the storm. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Soon though the wind increased, rain began, and visibility dropped. Continuing to sail even if double reefed seemed out of the question. The only question was had I waited too long. Would I be able to get my sails down and secured before it was too late. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I grabbed some ties, freed the main halyard and went forward to tie down the main. The wind was howling, the rain pouring, and the thunder roaring. Yikes. All the stories I had heard or read of small boats capsizing came to mind. I tied the main down as well and as quickly as I could and while I was up forward I grabbed the anchor and tossed it over. Then I hurried aft. Crew standing up in the bow can make a small sailboat more likely to capsize.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqICfHsMXS0hhFBXplf0qJIdaNZA3cCZosFEYeHXMYIvN7LDGcjR5iuL3TSJGXo_CdxeExbS-Z61BM827atHA4-ln3t-R7kxjsGuwEvr1Oxkp7WHCrEFtl6EJHUbQ6fGFccDXZI7I03SI/s1600/GPS+track+near+Nantucket+a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqICfHsMXS0hhFBXplf0qJIdaNZA3cCZosFEYeHXMYIvN7LDGcjR5iuL3TSJGXo_CdxeExbS-Z61BM827atHA4-ln3t-R7kxjsGuwEvr1Oxkp7WHCrEFtl6EJHUbQ6fGFccDXZI7I03SI/s640/GPS+track+near+Nantucket+a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I marked my GPS track where I dropped my sails and again where I raised them and got underway after the storm had passed. I decided to lower the mizzen. I am not sure if this was a good idea. The mizzen was keeping the boat pointed into the wind and waves. With the mizzen down Skorpa began drifting broadside to the wind and waves. The anchor had gone out with 140 feet of line but there was no sign of it holding. I began to worry that it might suddenly catch and jerk the boat around. The anchor might become entangled preventing me from retrieving it, but there was no way I was going back up on the foredeck until the wind eased off. That was the hardest part I did not know how long the wind would continue to howl or if it would increase in speed. The waves began to build and some broke into the cockpit, I huddled on the windward side hoping my weight would help keep her from going over.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was more than half an hour but less than an hour and the wind began to ease and the waves to diminish. I went forward and pulled in the anchor. It offered no resistance. Then I raised the mizzen and began straightening up the cockpit. I felt a little dazed. I was shivering. I could see a boat coming straight for me its bow high in the air. The SeaTow boat pulled right alongside and a young man asked if I was OK. I said I think so like I was not too sure. He flashed me a thumbs up sign and I gave him a thumbs up in return. He roared off. Just before the storm had hit I saw a few boats go racing by heading into the harbor. One of them must have let SeaTow know that a small sailboat had not made it in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The wind had dropped to around 10 knots but I put two reefs in the sails. The sky was still dark off to the south and I just was not going to take any chances. I laid out some lunch so I could eat as I sailed towards Nantucket Harbor.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSujIXszi4TBAt8_Gz8YT60vb_Xg9qh5qyhQqxbq5iEJXrq_OZbZxvFzfz3q5uokabNzPof8MMi29fTF3L8Ugm0uHZGL6-w0HRBB3v4qIbxgP-T7GOVOi49dyzV9tdcug44ehxS7dqIE/s1600/P8221035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSujIXszi4TBAt8_Gz8YT60vb_Xg9qh5qyhQqxbq5iEJXrq_OZbZxvFzfz3q5uokabNzPof8MMi29fTF3L8Ugm0uHZGL6-w0HRBB3v4qIbxgP-T7GOVOi49dyzV9tdcug44ehxS7dqIE/s320/P8221035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The lighthouse at Brant Point was a most welcome sight.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3WUiHNio0sq47_07-klMxB8iRafPuj78fKrNzV94TbGkeNIK1K2zMdj1vkmkRIVFh6W7Hhg0ggKZQkZ9gkHBensodOewMPDHqvN_bg0I-rDcK5pNYoQXOJ6GkuV3mR-dhru55jOaWAWs/s1600/P8221038t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3WUiHNio0sq47_07-klMxB8iRafPuj78fKrNzV94TbGkeNIK1K2zMdj1vkmkRIVFh6W7Hhg0ggKZQkZ9gkHBensodOewMPDHqvN_bg0I-rDcK5pNYoQXOJ6GkuV3mR-dhru55jOaWAWs/s320/P8221038t.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The deep water in Nantucket harbor is crowded with vessels of all kinds.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmRws_11lArxyP1mc7XEgdOg8etOw-EAp81pmD4lTTAg9_0DB2KgJMvALyeCZcqHVLkZP6FMz32AQovWHcI5bHQfr2ptFtdRGYvMI9Ppe83IJa9hdBCQyuli6SWb4eRZWyASIeTe9Nos/s1600/P8221034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmRws_11lArxyP1mc7XEgdOg8etOw-EAp81pmD4lTTAg9_0DB2KgJMvALyeCZcqHVLkZP6FMz32AQovWHcI5bHQfr2ptFtdRGYvMI9Ppe83IJa9hdBCQyuli6SWb4eRZWyASIeTe9Nos/s320/P8221034.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The waters of the harbor extend 4 miles to the northeast, but the average depth is around 4 feet.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQKAn98RMOnMrkA9IkzzWDWVMRyq46cERHAsYBUKIxp3Ebvt8jqir-B5rDll2UJJb3VWPJdUtotSLUR-ZdYvr9PYgRDM9-hpwmkJfGrgA_8ipN1EhowcC9Qh7OAZNQuKCMQgE0qxoROk/s1600/P8221059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQKAn98RMOnMrkA9IkzzWDWVMRyq46cERHAsYBUKIxp3Ebvt8jqir-B5rDll2UJJb3VWPJdUtotSLUR-ZdYvr9PYgRDM9-hpwmkJfGrgA_8ipN1EhowcC9Qh7OAZNQuKCMQgE0qxoROk/s320/P8221059.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Perfect for small boat sailing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj73mGe91DTMW2-sTmTRFczswgcJ9bJTKwwsEqItb_nE1e6pUwezLg2kq9ffgjn32aTHBtdsbQwt79TxwrmKErf909psI7BwBWmayJwhzKZsQFv4JGBjmKHr_nS6ha8VUUU1xtqDBikHCU/s1600/P8221054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj73mGe91DTMW2-sTmTRFczswgcJ9bJTKwwsEqItb_nE1e6pUwezLg2kq9ffgjn32aTHBtdsbQwt79TxwrmKErf909psI7BwBWmayJwhzKZsQFv4JGBjmKHr_nS6ha8VUUU1xtqDBikHCU/s320/P8221054.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This photo is looking out the harbor entrance on Wednesday morning. I anchored Skorpa in close to the beach at Brant Point and hopped out for a walk around town.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3AlLzg45rdpWKPtb4TZGWoQ3QU1fSWBrg8M-d4xNM1y_NHm3aYXD4Z5xyPPK9W7GMfvQOjXemUUNs03hO5gwLPBt3-_1_OSgArUp3cAuo8ZyOBJ3w2sSnWe6ZlJDySfqYR092b0YeNAE/s1600/P8221042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3AlLzg45rdpWKPtb4TZGWoQ3QU1fSWBrg8M-d4xNM1y_NHm3aYXD4Z5xyPPK9W7GMfvQOjXemUUNs03hO5gwLPBt3-_1_OSgArUp3cAuo8ZyOBJ3w2sSnWe6ZlJDySfqYR092b0YeNAE/s320/P8221042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There is a feeling of old money in the tree lined streets, sidewalks and roadways paved with brick and cobblestone and well preserved 19th century buildings.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbp8SAg2Mo21cOH5IhKmQkSoNHKqOMm9-bqnzs2OVaufDKKX9ZJQIKicicU3hVa1ErC55ztHqqWSvOD4C858uNY9n35yIMZERPRAW-FC9qFaThiuqdUXo5CL5hoOtx49LJ515zN5rN44/s1600/P8221047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbp8SAg2Mo21cOH5IhKmQkSoNHKqOMm9-bqnzs2OVaufDKKX9ZJQIKicicU3hVa1ErC55ztHqqWSvOD4C858uNY9n35yIMZERPRAW-FC9qFaThiuqdUXo5CL5hoOtx49LJ515zN5rN44/s320/P8221047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Near the ferry docks the streets are crowded with tourists unloading from all over the world. Strangely similar but oddly different from 19th century Nantucket.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkDzbYK-z-SxcjPqI4-OEa2tpBCYwFXErqFLhWmw9IkuwnxeD5jmp_ggVTUWCoE2hNpejIeXK99oSeU0Q8ySTrdSPUZmjh2vkRJn1OzLabRxz8BY1uFz14s_TXv8pAhoSAMhIW_dK2d8/s1600/P8221052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkDzbYK-z-SxcjPqI4-OEa2tpBCYwFXErqFLhWmw9IkuwnxeD5jmp_ggVTUWCoE2hNpejIeXK99oSeU0Q8ySTrdSPUZmjh2vkRJn1OzLabRxz8BY1uFz14s_TXv8pAhoSAMhIW_dK2d8/s320/P8221052.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thursday I sailed early on the first leg of my return to Point Judith. I sailed close by Tuckernuck Island and Muskeget Island to the Muskeget Channel. I met some stiff winds and chopping seas and sailed an hour or so under mizzen alone. When I reached the Muskeget Channel I had the choice of<br />
sailing across the southern end of Martha's Vineyard or heading around Cape Poge and back the way I had come towards Vineyard Haven and Woods Hole and all the ferry traffic and strong currents.<br />
<br />
The southern coast of Martha's Vineyard has no harbors no good places to seek shelter. A weak front was coming through so there were dark skies and gusty winds. I decided to take my chances with the ferries and currents.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXNca2ZhelkyCqGqQDRUHSwiNgZGW2inHpsyiB_mj7d3J8NrYPhvAwCMQ6zY_jPWSVCVs313PFAyTnqQJd4PNmu6mqOk3GmOwfYnfbsmtnASMkiFH5bik-5JovD1vis-hUVmSqFXky0k/s1600/P8231070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXNca2ZhelkyCqGqQDRUHSwiNgZGW2inHpsyiB_mj7d3J8NrYPhvAwCMQ6zY_jPWSVCVs313PFAyTnqQJd4PNmu6mqOk3GmOwfYnfbsmtnASMkiFH5bik-5JovD1vis-hUVmSqFXky0k/s320/P8231070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The winds grew light and seemed to shift to always be on my nose. But finally after a glorious sunset over Woods Hole I coasted into Tarpaulin Cove around 9pm.<br />
<br />
<br />
By morning the front had cleared and a fresh breeze was blowing from the north. I had some near perfect sailing conditions for the last leg back to Point Judith.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwj-Npq0Tk0aqkDIs4SRWWYaIN9PHs92mnslmFW6ULHQOmcp43L8FQJ8anJXqIT53p-KkR94go0QID49KTIzQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-61571432160275018242019-06-13T18:02:00.001-07:002019-06-13T18:02:26.988-07:00Florida Everglades March 2019<br />
<br />
This is our third trip to explore the Florida Everglades with our 22 foot shallow draft sailboat, SKORPA .<a href="http://sundogboatbuilding.blogspot.com/2015/01/march-to-everglades.html">Our first trip</a> involved sailing down the Gulf Coast of the Everglades exploring the Keys, Mangroves, and bays south from Chokoloskee to Ponce De Leon Bay. <a href="http://sundogboatbuilding.blogspot.com/2018/">Our second trip</a> was a voyage across Florida Bay from Flamingo to Key Largo.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREcimZfnzZIYF32DpoHaQy3yWlZ7rAcvkC6pCgRIakKQfWueKJsxmCVUJmLTC5Lg8xuz7vl01n1VTO6IuKMpkbmwQHP9VeoJSPBn-jkpy0CnnSOhuw4ZTCZHips7IS5mI6AopBCUN3co/s1600/Everglades+Gulf+Coast+2019+l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREcimZfnzZIYF32DpoHaQy3yWlZ7rAcvkC6pCgRIakKQfWueKJsxmCVUJmLTC5Lg8xuz7vl01n1VTO6IuKMpkbmwQHP9VeoJSPBn-jkpy0CnnSOhuw4ZTCZHips7IS5mI6AopBCUN3co/s640/Everglades+Gulf+Coast+2019+l.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This third trip is an expedition up the Lostmans River and along a portion of the Wilderness Waterway, to the headwaters of the Broad River and then down the Broad River back to the Gulf of Mexico, a little over a hundred nautical miles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPj9LLAyFsdUv-10CDpoADqQYb1dyv_1NV6C-J8OYyWpO-oMZjlisI7moUuOu_Im3R7zMaMMLUkgbycrlho99KBN-j3D4M9HtjXrGTHpTyo9zE1Q-Tui7ak9tZT9FyEwN23hO5msQ3gOw/s1600/Lostman_s_River.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1011" data-original-width="1600" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPj9LLAyFsdUv-10CDpoADqQYb1dyv_1NV6C-J8OYyWpO-oMZjlisI7moUuOu_Im3R7zMaMMLUkgbycrlho99KBN-j3D4M9HtjXrGTHpTyo9zE1Q-Tui7ak9tZT9FyEwN23hO5msQ3gOw/s320/Lostman_s_River.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The Wilderness Waterway is a series of canoe/kayak trails that allow a paddler to travel over a hundred miles from Chokoloskee to Flamingo along a network of Bays and Rivers in the Everglades National Park. The trail is customarily used by canoes, kayaks, and small powerboats with big engines. There are some very shallow areas and some constricted passages, but we have heard of small sailboats exploring at least some sections of the Waterway.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbisyc5TZrhR0ZEUBDoNqcNGOzPXOrQKHU9W4KOwnSF4qq4Y-9UY_1vmb0ivrhUqZvZd6KX1Tq1CFJmeExEewzM9pxVbthyphenhyphenMtJCa88VMRX6rLDbPK9tBTNVDS0gxEPgM6fT_Sf36nh3g0/s1600/P3020700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbisyc5TZrhR0ZEUBDoNqcNGOzPXOrQKHU9W4KOwnSF4qq4Y-9UY_1vmb0ivrhUqZvZd6KX1Tq1CFJmeExEewzM9pxVbthyphenhyphenMtJCa88VMRX6rLDbPK9tBTNVDS0gxEPgM6fT_Sf36nh3g0/s320/P3020700.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We began our trip to Florida with a stop at Fort Desoto Park for the start of the Everglades Challenge Race. We know several of the participants. We enjoyed wishing them well and sending them off into the beautiful dawn on their 300 plus mile journey to Key Largo.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL6fjwLHy9_iOKRHe7U5WmvveeEu06KigEQ7f-Drr1csPltm9MnGbaksUptn_Mp9TrLdStXH6Wn_JEdh2x-ajpGDcKSuH2BHNMoK0HKpQQcoXUnJ2OadlSfrrPDixLCRuNCIA7J24KgHU/s1600/P3020703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL6fjwLHy9_iOKRHe7U5WmvveeEu06KigEQ7f-Drr1csPltm9MnGbaksUptn_Mp9TrLdStXH6Wn_JEdh2x-ajpGDcKSuH2BHNMoK0HKpQQcoXUnJ2OadlSfrrPDixLCRuNCIA7J24KgHU/s320/P3020703.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Godspeed to Alan and Paul Stewart in Southern Skimmer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LYtPGT72vTp5w0HDXOrwnjpPE-Wc8dcC1cCXO2avrkgngimQavxrV7kRyopcZoE2gCymkvFvuprZxV2Z5RgG4CVXO1N8W0ykW9zNjk11fdmSAD3x0qtwVDcSY7cX_nDdb4_lvISMRI8/s1600/P3020704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LYtPGT72vTp5w0HDXOrwnjpPE-Wc8dcC1cCXO2avrkgngimQavxrV7kRyopcZoE2gCymkvFvuprZxV2Z5RgG4CVXO1N8W0ykW9zNjk11fdmSAD3x0qtwVDcSY7cX_nDdb4_lvISMRI8/s320/P3020704.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Fairwinds our new friend Schappi aka Joachim Harpprecht.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Sally and I left the adventurers to find their way down the Florida Coast. We drove down to Chokoloskee, about half way along their route and launched our own boat, SKORPA. While not a race proven boat, she is a B&B Yachts EC22 a race proven design, and SKORPA is most certainly expedition proven. Since 2012 the three of us have logged well over a thousand miles exploring the Atlantic coast from New England to the Florida Keys.<br />
<br />
We were able to get our boat rigged and launched by 4pm Saturday. The tide would soon be turning and we had already had a long day so we spent the night tied up at the dock. There was a Spring tide and by morning we were partially aground, soft mud fortunately and not oysters. We planned to wait until almost noon when the tide would be near high so we would leave with the falling tide. When you have no motor your schedule is heavily influenced by the wind and tides.<br />
<br />
Somehow we missed a tack on the way out Rabbit Key pass. The ebbing tide pushed us up against some mangrove trees and we were stuck. I knew this could be serious. If the mast hung up the increasing current could capsize us and or damage the boat. We struggled to push off the branches and free the boat, but we just wedged further into the mangroves. We got the sails down and tried paddling but to no effect. I got one of the oars out and was able to pole off the bottom. We pushed and paddled with all we had and slowly the stern swung free of the mangroves and out into the current. The increasing following current had limited the rudders ability to control the boat and our voyage had nearly come to a premature ending. Must be extra careful.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZcpfkUWFxTHEcaco3xwTbMGgrj0Wo6Qrngpy39Em5wluuOm_7TdD4i_cKEf47v8rWVZG7als-VLhnc4f_0tlw_lvkXDT-a8CVAYPymrhXLHXLUGhbsdkDkmNM0jNm8OvkcA6BqaenhSk/s1600/P3090783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZcpfkUWFxTHEcaco3xwTbMGgrj0Wo6Qrngpy39Em5wluuOm_7TdD4i_cKEf47v8rWVZG7als-VLhnc4f_0tlw_lvkXDT-a8CVAYPymrhXLHXLUGhbsdkDkmNM0jNm8OvkcA6BqaenhSk/s320/P3090783.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Above I am checking my GPS, and below Sally is watching the compass as she heads the boat south towards Lostmans River. The low lying and relatively featureless keys and mainland make it difficult to keep your orientation without some navigational aids. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjk223arUd4SZ46CmH_XPuGA7y84mfxzajdLhxxofcr2uM9pExXDhKQooonsBuOXrifS5-4HE5F_GD-HSzFNWmxHq9vvYdUFYgr5OuPBhP7lqMgA8elHa0S7k68DO3uIKofB7sjerGKyI/s1600/P3070744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjk223arUd4SZ46CmH_XPuGA7y84mfxzajdLhxxofcr2uM9pExXDhKQooonsBuOXrifS5-4HE5F_GD-HSzFNWmxHq9vvYdUFYgr5OuPBhP7lqMgA8elHa0S7k68DO3uIKofB7sjerGKyI/s320/P3070744.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sally was a little shaken by our near calamity and wanted to stop early. I encouraged her to keep on and promised to have us at anchor by 4pm. She felt better after awhile and was glad we continued on to Pavilion Key.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AAmEeTim6XsO3d2No0fO0LYV3f1r_lrwSFP2-ZFMNi635k1eShyg36BkCIwjAtguPVpXwi4YiUch4nTX_ENLm3q-8NZDil_q-IwNf9dFqUWGDH2SNWXDZ_ZBghINhJ7Pw3_w3-zZrmI/s1600/P3040707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AAmEeTim6XsO3d2No0fO0LYV3f1r_lrwSFP2-ZFMNi635k1eShyg36BkCIwjAtguPVpXwi4YiUch4nTX_ENLm3q-8NZDil_q-IwNf9dFqUWGDH2SNWXDZ_ZBghINhJ7Pw3_w3-zZrmI/s320/P3040707.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We had a quiet night just southwest of Pavilion Key. We decided to weigh anchor before dawn so we could make it to Lostmans River while the tide was flooding. That would increase our chances of making it up to Third Bay, or Lostmans River Bay.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0clyLnCyLo6onqzuiFnk4iRON0yI1YbS36K2bPrj0CG4hUb3x-dr6qcpfRM-QEwb5CncxgZX39zatX6SAljU-IxkzY83rXF7PYoKNZd7IqrACE_knEW52f71a6tEIoXee2JkjaLZx47Q/s1600/Everglades+2019+Overview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="579" data-original-width="1168" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0clyLnCyLo6onqzuiFnk4iRON0yI1YbS36K2bPrj0CG4hUb3x-dr6qcpfRM-QEwb5CncxgZX39zatX6SAljU-IxkzY83rXF7PYoKNZd7IqrACE_knEW52f71a6tEIoXee2JkjaLZx47Q/s640/Everglades+2019+Overview.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thanks to our early start we made it to the mouth of the Lostmans River by 8:30am. The tide was still pretty low so we had to pick our way carefully through the shoals at the entrance. Once we cleared Lostmans Island we found a little more water and with a flooding tide and a following wind we were making good progress. Much of the landscape in the lower Lostmans looked familiar to us from our trip three years ago. As we sailed up the river we were trying to locate our previous trips furtherest point of progress where we stopped for lunch before turning around continuing down the gulf coast. We passed the tower at the abandoned Ranger Station and then the water monitoring station.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjH88RqYsTeoy4HZUWIBfb39ab-szlqpUpd8WvW0zW2UFxcYT1PJFI4amcrtLzDmxmkyZe7vSJwqbdBkPhad5fFacPrRgHFN4HoicurIAXquHoRR2RjUX9lwGRfYZXYw_ZK5PVLplahSI/s1600/Clipboard03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="983" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjH88RqYsTeoy4HZUWIBfb39ab-szlqpUpd8WvW0zW2UFxcYT1PJFI4amcrtLzDmxmkyZe7vSJwqbdBkPhad5fFacPrRgHFN4HoicurIAXquHoRR2RjUX9lwGRfYZXYw_ZK5PVLplahSI/s320/Clipboard03.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When we saw Second Bay opening up before us we knew we were beyond our previous trip. We continued to have a favorable current and wind about 10knots almost dead astern. We crossed Second Bay and sailed between some island right into Third Bay.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGms598choc7Jqx06fhT9Yomf3lLBTgHRWF_irPJoUIkNlRpo1JS1QKJZ9yfo7dTNmcJ8_vTNYe1ES3FNqevNC7pOr3tafipCcLqXWnvF-3RxhOTJ06W3G3AVj6ba0ykFqcN1mzryiQQ/s1600/Everglades+2019+Third+Bay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="1015" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGms598choc7Jqx06fhT9Yomf3lLBTgHRWF_irPJoUIkNlRpo1JS1QKJZ9yfo7dTNmcJ8_vTNYe1ES3FNqevNC7pOr3tafipCcLqXWnvF-3RxhOTJ06W3G3AVj6ba0ykFqcN1mzryiQQ/s320/Everglades+2019+Third+Bay.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We decided to stop for lunch in a little cove in Third Bay. We were really pleased to have made it all the way up to the Wilderness Waterway so easily. Over lunch we checked the weather and discussed our plans.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzat0HD8Q6s8zN_mBfkSDgrUGsq1zobNO7Wi-Zg3ZGJ77btESC1ZBKjtqM-cLm6eNs8pEgV09b77FhK11990w4O7G84ZTaNrj-zWvYfIUXI-R5HQZsVRbmOMs4v64d00VB09Pl_9LIF7I/s1600/P3040708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzat0HD8Q6s8zN_mBfkSDgrUGsq1zobNO7Wi-Zg3ZGJ77btESC1ZBKjtqM-cLm6eNs8pEgV09b77FhK11990w4O7G84ZTaNrj-zWvYfIUXI-R5HQZsVRbmOMs4v64d00VB09Pl_9LIF7I/s320/P3040708.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We could explore the Wilderness Waterway near the head waters of Lostmans River and then return back down Lostmans. Another possibility would be to head towards the Broad River. I did not know for certain that we could make it down the Broad River with our sailboat. The River might be too narrow or clogged with trees. We had two days of fair weather and then a strong front would come through bringing gusty northeast winds. We decided to take small steps towards the Broad River stopping along the way and reassessing our situation.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidF7FZvwzNZPb0MI8ny1tjdMxjFadsnef7JSpVSRvOhKP4BwRzX8Ew-BCrFwhQdDi0rSULmyXFlBknyftGjbaBLXyoPPsJTaMNsAPgW5_9k-RuigG58Wz-9p8aGuwqoPfxpHMUFT79O4k/s1600/Everglades+2019+Rogers+River+Bay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="854" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidF7FZvwzNZPb0MI8ny1tjdMxjFadsnef7JSpVSRvOhKP4BwRzX8Ew-BCrFwhQdDi0rSULmyXFlBknyftGjbaBLXyoPPsJTaMNsAPgW5_9k-RuigG58Wz-9p8aGuwqoPfxpHMUFT79O4k/s320/Everglades+2019+Rogers+River+Bay.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We headed south and east leaving Third Bay and following the Wilderness Waterway into Big Lostmans Bay. I felt like I needed to pinch myself. I could not believe we were sailing the Wilderness Waterway. The wind was about 10 knots west southwest. The bays are relatively small so there were only little wind waves and we glided across the water like magic. The bays are only a mile or two across at the most so our progress seemed almost too fast. Unlike sailing the Gulf or a large Bay where progress is not easily detected and it takes several hours to make your next landmark. Before we knew it we were across Big Lostmans Bay and hunting for the passage into Rogers River Bay. The passage opened easily before us and we dropped down into Rogers River Bay. We rounded up into a little cove and dropped our anchor. I checked for a cell signal and as I suspected found none. We had not had a signal since Pavilion Key, and that was a poor one. This was our Rubicon if we went any further south we were committing to the Broad River. We considered staying the night in our little cove but it was small and exposed to the south. We still had some daylight left and the conditions were near perfect. The Wilderness Waterway follows the eastern shore and goes through some narrow channels that would require sailing upwind around some marshy islands. We chose a route to the west that looked more open and favorable with this wind direction. Our course took us right by the Rogers River Chickee. Just a platform in a pretty little finger of a bay. There was no sign of anyone.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiboqN_A83B9uga1OOjtJFiXVlQLz216KP9R4bhhmimaeYEPm7hGeN0NVkdFVnDJItOAD6FykDKCxHc-PKpAQzfDmLDztvHC6FcsGpP2USTkrVYBJTgh8rpbhOCBd7YEycnAAPIUhCciPc/s1600/Everglades+2019+Cabbage+Island.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="876" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiboqN_A83B9uga1OOjtJFiXVlQLz216KP9R4bhhmimaeYEPm7hGeN0NVkdFVnDJItOAD6FykDKCxHc-PKpAQzfDmLDztvHC6FcsGpP2USTkrVYBJTgh8rpbhOCBd7YEycnAAPIUhCciPc/s640/Everglades+2019+Cabbage+Island.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We rejoined the Wilderness Waterway sailing along the western edge of Cabbage Island. We began to get a little concerned because we were not seeing a good spot to anchor, but then poking into the entrance to the Broad River we found a wonderful little spot, protected on all sides and with a Cabbage palm tree to mark it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkkhDO2AjTsgFfY6nAYk6a-2SMMEqD8gWJZQOXav1mX7y15WdCDm6QwQj9VMiTkeG2Astcxkh1Lb7OXdxIEe8L88KiJCQrp89Ovvz6dCpE7EEGs_JVbl5Ab8nJ88MBx7rlxPpIAtnOpI/s1600/P3050714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkkhDO2AjTsgFfY6nAYk6a-2SMMEqD8gWJZQOXav1mX7y15WdCDm6QwQj9VMiTkeG2Astcxkh1Lb7OXdxIEe8L88KiJCQrp89Ovvz6dCpE7EEGs_JVbl5Ab8nJ88MBx7rlxPpIAtnOpI/s320/P3050714.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I think Sally looks pleased. We are in the heart of the Everglades about midway through our trip. Tomorrow we start working our way down the Broad River and back to the Gulf.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbcVrSC7MsJ-xrhKseOKaP6J0r0nUK95cC-debmpB02x4ZVR2AFVXN50-8Xp8FOXAk7s5xU-507TTjFDRPQFHjVbsM4ztoCzIACWlbIbomdRzJRCneiQfPNmwqpDHAapHstLCKO81bEvk/s1600/P3050711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbcVrSC7MsJ-xrhKseOKaP6J0r0nUK95cC-debmpB02x4ZVR2AFVXN50-8Xp8FOXAk7s5xU-507TTjFDRPQFHjVbsM4ztoCzIACWlbIbomdRzJRCneiQfPNmwqpDHAapHstLCKO81bEvk/s320/P3050711.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Tuesday morning was foggy with 5 knots of wind from the west. The current would be ebbing strongly in the morning so we decided to explore a bit around Cabbage Island until the current slowed a bit. There two ways to enter the Broad River. The Wilderness Waterway takes the Eastern branch which has a tight S turn. We thought this might cause a problem forcing us to sail upwind or around debris. We entered from the west which is wider and straighter and joins up with the other entrance in a half a mile or so. We started noticing Bromiliades. Flowering plants growing in the forks of dead trees. We lost our wind so we began to row slowly mostly to keep the boat centered in the river. The current was 1 to 2 knots. We noticed some shoaling when we met the eastern fork but no problems. The river was about 50 feet wide. No trees hanging in or over the water. Just quietly drifting watching for alligators.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPkPmPEEHVjoQlR0dyo4tmMHAoa0i2D09Qz02im6wEpD27Y4WHETi8j135Jdf5xy3zbaz8eSRfeIfg3K2TF8VeLtEhiD0Qf2gGwQPnmIwQ-ju0u84XZKtQ5ahXM2smfhdnyU4QEA910Y4/s1600/Upper+Broad+River.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="914" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPkPmPEEHVjoQlR0dyo4tmMHAoa0i2D09Qz02im6wEpD27Y4WHETi8j135Jdf5xy3zbaz8eSRfeIfg3K2TF8VeLtEhiD0Qf2gGwQPnmIwQ-ju0u84XZKtQ5ahXM2smfhdnyU4QEA910Y4/s640/Upper+Broad+River.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When we reached the Broad River Bay we turned east towards Camp Lonesome. When the Bay began to narrow significantly we came about and headed west. The wind began to pick up veer west and with sharp gusts. Dark clouds rolling low and fast. The wilderness seemed a little less friendly. We were close hauled and tacking straight up the bay so progress was slow. We dropped anchor near the northern shore and tucked in a reef. We continued on until the bay narrowed and the river began. We anchored as close to the north shore as we dared and tied everything down well. We were expecting a strong front to come through overnight and the winds to increase and continue to veer to the north or northeast.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMaLDKw5gvyNaz1aLZ8uhr-r0PSRh_tShXAgp9hs7AK7Pc6XIsT3o9SQPXecAz4g6Rfwny7nJQo6KCTNrkgH8NUZGqtyxhcCletj8Ja_4S-ewtPKWTM-JvDqhTmB-dBraEeZncRbhMkXk/s1600/P3050713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMaLDKw5gvyNaz1aLZ8uhr-r0PSRh_tShXAgp9hs7AK7Pc6XIsT3o9SQPXecAz4g6Rfwny7nJQo6KCTNrkgH8NUZGqtyxhcCletj8Ja_4S-ewtPKWTM-JvDqhTmB-dBraEeZncRbhMkXk/s320/P3050713.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Below is the view looking west where the Broad River leaves Broad River Bay. This area has a tidal current of around 2 knots. The current flows west down river during the ebb tide, then it reverses and flows east during the flood. During the night the wind became quite strong and gusty form the north. When it was quiet in between gusts the boat would swing to line up with the current then a gust would come howling across the marsh and catch the boat broadside. The boat would shake and the masts fibrate as we swung to face the wind. Then the wind would ease and the boat would swing back to the current and several minutes later the wild gyration would repeat. Later we would learn that a veteran Watertriber would be forced to abandon his boat and call for a Coast Guard rescue in the Gulf not far from where we were swinging at anchor.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhMIFC3UOOjPlSRmjo7h1cJZPednVGvnpwunxin4FOrNLnFhEo5a58P593u8LIiigTd-z803idAVKP3dv0-7kiOxiZ7cgIpZVFgrEV-kmCdjhD4EiCY2FeQxRQP6xDUiRVSXVFl6k-P6k/s1600/P3050719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhMIFC3UOOjPlSRmjo7h1cJZPednVGvnpwunxin4FOrNLnFhEo5a58P593u8LIiigTd-z803idAVKP3dv0-7kiOxiZ7cgIpZVFgrEV-kmCdjhD4EiCY2FeQxRQP6xDUiRVSXVFl6k-P6k/s320/P3050719.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
During the night we were surprised to hear voices and see a light in the distance. Watertribers no doubt making there way to Key Largo. Wednesday dawned clear, the wind from the NE 10 knots with some higher gusts. We considered leaving but decided to spend another day in the Bay to let the weather settle down. Later in the morning we spotted a few more Watertribers in kayaks some sporting sails heading west down the river. A couple of them came close enough to exchange a few words. They mentioned how wild the wind was last night. <br />
<br />
<br />
Thursday morning dawned clear and cool. A manatee drifted down river I could only see a little of his snout as he surfaced to breathe. The sound of a large mammal surfacing to grab some air was unmistakable. We started down the lower Broad River under oars drifting slowly with the current. We were using the oars primarily to keep our boat centered in the river. After an hour or so the wind picked up and we put up our sails.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezDBerPNlEavYK5e9wCNefg1qe2TIZccbmUel2APjjAgdCvQLqOFjLBeHK05UjB1Goj14qU9Zpzp4EuXEzFAmQ7-jlz6v3W_EJpKvlwkZACDmJoC_oFe0M51fybHiVPeXMcHp9ezmD0w/s1600/P3070735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezDBerPNlEavYK5e9wCNefg1qe2TIZccbmUel2APjjAgdCvQLqOFjLBeHK05UjB1Goj14qU9Zpzp4EuXEzFAmQ7-jlz6v3W_EJpKvlwkZACDmJoC_oFe0M51fybHiVPeXMcHp9ezmD0w/s320/P3070735.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The sail down the lower Broad was beautiful but uneventful, but in the last 1/2 mile or so the river widens and is littered with small mangrove islands and sand bars. We were nearing the end of the ebb tide so the water was quite low. We followed a narrow channel of deeper water along the south bank of the river. I was relieved when we arrived at the mouth of the river but actually the most difficult part lay ahead. A huge delta stretches over a mile into the gulf most of it only a foot deep at low tide. Our GPS chart showed a narrow channel twisting off to the southwest through the shoal. The channel though is constantly shifting so we had to try to read the water for signs of the channel. The water color was not very helpful it was all various shades of light brown. After a few light bumps and scrapes we sailed free of the shoal and could set our course north towards Chokoloskee.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtqpBkXM5wMCNIkPvubIi7MK_a4NRI3v8XO-s8hXjigDqnxg_cD5RzbIE6nc1ocB23VRng_PQX6KtJ9vjZaI5egfg69iJCKYsfPDymIT4gQFy9az_pzhC0il_nfHgcfVwZ2Et0M2Y_9M/s1600/P3070748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtqpBkXM5wMCNIkPvubIi7MK_a4NRI3v8XO-s8hXjigDqnxg_cD5RzbIE6nc1ocB23VRng_PQX6KtJ9vjZaI5egfg69iJCKYsfPDymIT4gQFy9az_pzhC0il_nfHgcfVwZ2Et0M2Y_9M/s320/P3070748.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We stopped for a little shore leave at Plover Key. We had a pleasant walk along the sandy beach. We found lots of interesting drift wood and shells to admire.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nak44VeOp_U08A5NzcZzqmihSy5Tu_oGID3XelmywLZbsAKQPOXKLgzNc3kKQq9XRm24A-_55bvwm6SLETk5Tb1lLCKoDqGhnijaDvZUUJ3MErHFu0ECGWMcXjce7yqb31GcJ7e9J1M/s1600/P3070739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nak44VeOp_U08A5NzcZzqmihSy5Tu_oGID3XelmywLZbsAKQPOXKLgzNc3kKQq9XRm24A-_55bvwm6SLETk5Tb1lLCKoDqGhnijaDvZUUJ3MErHFu0ECGWMcXjce7yqb31GcJ7e9J1M/s320/P3070739.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We had some lovely visits from dolphins while at anchor near Plover Key, but they refused to pose for pictures.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61vxm2W_QSlmjuaz-kmGghKgRNSWTfjMCYrtROBdNheHWgcr7skQfiSLsshd_jAfW2ZR3Sfc38W4DzaQaHeUjTPHt8lPUOLPdwA8ZBdUXtPUhk6ViDDaT3eiofJT3RNzu_t554da3Spo/s1600/P3080771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61vxm2W_QSlmjuaz-kmGghKgRNSWTfjMCYrtROBdNheHWgcr7skQfiSLsshd_jAfW2ZR3Sfc38W4DzaQaHeUjTPHt8lPUOLPdwA8ZBdUXtPUhk6ViDDaT3eiofJT3RNzu_t554da3Spo/s320/P3080771.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sally coming ashore at her favorite key in all of Florida. Turtle Key!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcE2A2CRPY0Ox_tN6hcwfzV3cZXGPf97FOePwoXDuRnjIR-mn9jOtdNBzrZcbG7bRyJP27ZH8Fnk1cB6IO2Ay358QilK9Xl27kFfYmhD6SI7p6UNfXC4HvdQg6FWlNWxR6pfTEwWnO30M/s1600/P3080773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcE2A2CRPY0Ox_tN6hcwfzV3cZXGPf97FOePwoXDuRnjIR-mn9jOtdNBzrZcbG7bRyJP27ZH8Fnk1cB6IO2Ay358QilK9Xl27kFfYmhD6SI7p6UNfXC4HvdQg6FWlNWxR6pfTEwWnO30M/s320/P3080773.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We marveled at the Mangroves that have adapted to live in this harsh spit of sand.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4fl4JmPFblLxX831a8JBvOsfYNZKMMslQQIx8rDBol3_qvXohhawLz5RkCiG3x0l4bdsfkAPupkdN5Ac5MgetiHW_Lkc2EVnxmL8f_Oclpq0I9ZfJT5gHiAsGtQ52Csaqouwkj4snho/s1600/P3080775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4fl4JmPFblLxX831a8JBvOsfYNZKMMslQQIx8rDBol3_qvXohhawLz5RkCiG3x0l4bdsfkAPupkdN5Ac5MgetiHW_Lkc2EVnxmL8f_Oclpq0I9ZfJT5gHiAsGtQ52Csaqouwkj4snho/s320/P3080775.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Turtle Key is four or five miles from Chokoloskee. You frequently see power boats and kayaks so it feels like you have returned to civilization. After 6 nights on our boat in the Everglades we were ready for a little civilization. We had no reservations and the first three hotels we tried had no vacancies, in desperation we tried the Rod and Gun Club and they had a room for us<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQb0efmNXu-XwAdFBEW4d6jyKypZE2vCt3qT4nO0DNraDyrAZTAQlz8gAeVfxHYLJkTtkv2m4LWyC1BDkeQ5YsYpZkJqo25tsINO7NtjYMesGlW_0O78gX4xWHu0_VS8Ax3s6ad1-3Pk/s1600/P3090812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQb0efmNXu-XwAdFBEW4d6jyKypZE2vCt3qT4nO0DNraDyrAZTAQlz8gAeVfxHYLJkTtkv2m4LWyC1BDkeQ5YsYpZkJqo25tsINO7NtjYMesGlW_0O78gX4xWHu0_VS8Ax3s6ad1-3Pk/s320/P3090812.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A trip to Chokoloskee would not be complete for us without a meal at the Havana Café.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5cN9I6ykvsjSquNkCyC8hZBm7mT9TooNz60MMRJzRPgZzz1Lt4O9Kmwk82cXUGpg3GlRN6r0MZcvqvOPBtN5SB5EoHCM9GLOEggJHmupzJ5r2vltuAQ_pvP70dK3fJ79OpyH799ddfhY/s1600/P3090808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5cN9I6ykvsjSquNkCyC8hZBm7mT9TooNz60MMRJzRPgZzz1Lt4O9Kmwk82cXUGpg3GlRN6r0MZcvqvOPBtN5SB5EoHCM9GLOEggJHmupzJ5r2vltuAQ_pvP70dK3fJ79OpyH799ddfhY/s320/P3090808.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-92127585518372551072019-01-16T16:45:00.001-08:002021-02-23T16:03:29.834-08:00Portsmouth IslandEvery year for the last eight years or so Sally and I have attended B and B Yacht's small boat gathering. We often take the opportunity to explore the bays and rivers near Chapel Creek, the home of the Messabout. I have documented these trips in prevous posts. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://sundogboatbuilding.blogspot.com/2014/">Exploring Mouse Harbor</a><br />
<br />
This year 2018 Sally and I in Skorpa, joined Jay and Carol in their CS 20 mk3, and Graham in his CS17 mk3 on a trip from Chapel Creek on the Bay River across the Pamlico Sound to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. <br />
<br />
We started with a brief captain's meeting. About 2pm Sunday we set sail down the river. Sally and I had double reefs as the wind was still gusting quite strong though would likely decrease as the afternoon wore on. The other two boats were partially reefed. I thought that the other two boats would soon leave us behind because they had so much more sail up, but Graham later explained to me that as long as each of the boats had enough sail up to drive their boat up to hull speed that the boat with the longer water line would be faster. On top of that the EC22 hull is more easily driven up onto a plane and thus beyond its hull speed. Some of the gusts were still strong enough to send us a little beyond hull speed so to my surprise we pulled ahead of them. Every now and then we would double back so we could enjoy the sail down the Bay River together. Around sundown we headed into Bonner Bay and found a quiet anchorage in Riggs Creek.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQRxN52bQXFldPknya3j43gjmOqet0ZuRogOJzCs2MspGg-4BkVF4Yso7oIcl7AyAeQ-7cp9qG4XkzVlcm1JYGNGn69idlRPZpP6Li_KqFSjEUdu4QSFFjj6Ns_mslq0a9u-tGM0a0NE/s1600/Bonner+Bay+2+%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="559" data-original-width="1012" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQRxN52bQXFldPknya3j43gjmOqet0ZuRogOJzCs2MspGg-4BkVF4Yso7oIcl7AyAeQ-7cp9qG4XkzVlcm1JYGNGn69idlRPZpP6Li_KqFSjEUdu4QSFFjj6Ns_mslq0a9u-tGM0a0NE/s320/Bonner+Bay+2+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
As we drifted back on our anchor we came along side of Graham's boat so we rafted up for the evening and shared some after dinner tea and chocolate. I carried our stove box out to the cockpit and cooked our meal out in the open. You can see the stove glowing in the photo. There were no mosquitos!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnrYgw_bAYQBKYwFcD0SxGlwbkW6XKzCQX1rQlv9hq3SiJ8MtoFtg6PGF07XvxSfy82GAv1V6daMHrfQ3IQ9cWO4W6rB59ql3IQGGyQLpcx5E_p_uYex54rtg2wFp37n-0_JSxNTpgfeA/s1600/PA210562.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnrYgw_bAYQBKYwFcD0SxGlwbkW6XKzCQX1rQlv9hq3SiJ8MtoFtg6PGF07XvxSfy82GAv1V6daMHrfQ3IQ9cWO4W6rB59ql3IQGGyQLpcx5E_p_uYex54rtg2wFp37n-0_JSxNTpgfeA/s320/PA210562.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We decided to leave in the morning at 7:30am to allow plenty of daylight for our crossing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBGRYUKVQt-WJp22HFpjSm0FY_NyCyTnXwJyh5_IEI05MWQ6hODVMAh32XsM8OYgciMP3kCXJR2O6rBaEbAHs7Bifmaq_eu3ttUiWs8RrvrQSzl-Q6WApwJPEmR9xbUJANMg0q98uFuw/s1600/PA220566.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBGRYUKVQt-WJp22HFpjSm0FY_NyCyTnXwJyh5_IEI05MWQ6hODVMAh32XsM8OYgciMP3kCXJR2O6rBaEbAHs7Bifmaq_eu3ttUiWs8RrvrQSzl-Q6WApwJPEmR9xbUJANMg0q98uFuw/s320/PA220566.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3gT5SWI8PSLEHgEkl9a2hC9nFWcxRxUuPpOCM6slu3SJ1R-LvKy7LlR223nXNDdmUjYMegjhXdEXPa771u6rmIc-LbYs-Q_zN4qzSxkqskNirNON6qXqxztNQDNfQFOhanBCS44SIQHE/s1600/5CEF5437-37C4-4C00-8D89-CCCC6C2470D0.jpeg.5b349f56367af9b8198cf3b3e2de56bb.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3gT5SWI8PSLEHgEkl9a2hC9nFWcxRxUuPpOCM6slu3SJ1R-LvKy7LlR223nXNDdmUjYMegjhXdEXPa771u6rmIc-LbYs-Q_zN4qzSxkqskNirNON6qXqxztNQDNfQFOhanBCS44SIQHE/s320/5CEF5437-37C4-4C00-8D89-CCCC6C2470D0.jpeg.5b349f56367af9b8198cf3b3e2de56bb.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
We had a north wind around 10 kts. Absolutely gorgeous conditions. Jay took this photo from Southern Express as we set out across the Pamlico Sound. Carlita is in the center and Skorpa is off to the right.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPteCso38GmQU5o7cy8gzMhIASkKZuKJ-oTKp-NCSmK5BkzN0SRj-hq72ZfM5vFaH92UNbloDZx0JBsndXViUyFjCzEKpLDmYkEtRO55shjT-BwFkuEt5FdFmN8qYb1lk_Ngm_ezh7b0s/s1600/20181022_090218+%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPteCso38GmQU5o7cy8gzMhIASkKZuKJ-oTKp-NCSmK5BkzN0SRj-hq72ZfM5vFaH92UNbloDZx0JBsndXViUyFjCzEKpLDmYkEtRO55shjT-BwFkuEt5FdFmN8qYb1lk_Ngm_ezh7b0s/s320/20181022_090218+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
An advantage of sailing in a group is you can get some great shots of your boat from your fellow sailors. This is Skorpa heading across the Pamlico Sound to Portsmouth.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE76JqLUkEHPohyphenhyphenKDuFOkt1yLcNtokT-s2kOHI-DVyhyphenhyphenYGes2ufm4uaes5zwajLz186Hpak_4MdxKzEsSEXgUfDPdfM42VTTpQRvx9ZZOMw6tOEh5Ps9XOUPiF1dUB99p_ArxuksMlPPE/s1600/Approach+to+Portsmouth+a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="1060" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE76JqLUkEHPohyphenhyphenKDuFOkt1yLcNtokT-s2kOHI-DVyhyphenhyphenYGes2ufm4uaes5zwajLz186Hpak_4MdxKzEsSEXgUfDPdfM42VTTpQRvx9ZZOMw6tOEh5Ps9XOUPiF1dUB99p_ArxuksMlPPE/s320/Approach+to+Portsmouth+a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
As we approached Portsmouth I could see that Graham and Jay were heading further East toward the Wallace Channel so we headed up to join them. When we were about 5 miles out the wind faded on us. Jay and Carol motored in. Graham waited for us near Shell Castle then he too headed in and we followed. Graham and I headed west shortly after rounding Ayers Rock while Jay had seen a large Sport Fishing boat leaving so he proceeded further south in the Wallace Chanel before heading West on a heading of 255 degrees. That was the channel we would use when we left for Ocracoke. Graham and I had to feel our way across the shoals. It is also possible to approach Portsmouth from the West. The preferred route depends on the tide and the set of the currant. We had about half tide and a flood currant.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1q7cNf6lfCp-xzX4M1r1h7fEwvOJf45wiDdluIISD4tvKlkfiykquXkBWdrTWi8WF-iCmTghibLYgUB7_OSTz2C4MqD-XF8BXu3xvZRN5ix4P0n1UC0Ihkyp3HvOahR_zfoqlhUHFe9Q/s1600/D6E29416-648B-4F59-989C-586D88ED312E.thumb.jpeg.2ae40ddcccb42a91a9b9d9b8bec1aecc.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1q7cNf6lfCp-xzX4M1r1h7fEwvOJf45wiDdluIISD4tvKlkfiykquXkBWdrTWi8WF-iCmTghibLYgUB7_OSTz2C4MqD-XF8BXu3xvZRN5ix4P0n1UC0Ihkyp3HvOahR_zfoqlhUHFe9Q/s320/D6E29416-648B-4F59-989C-586D88ED312E.thumb.jpeg.2ae40ddcccb42a91a9b9d9b8bec1aecc.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Coming into the dock at Portsmouth. Jay and Carol greeted us and helped us tie up. The mosquitos were out in force so we all decided to retire to our cabins. We put up our screens got rid of the skeeters that had snuck inside and fixed our dinner. That was by far more rowing than we had ever done in Skorpa much of it was against the current and Sally had done more than her share of the rowing. We had a quiet night, though I did notice that sometime after midnight the current reversed. We were treated to a beautiful sunrise. This is looking across Ocracoke Inlet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYjn9vbaTPZ5N26LEceDYiQcuUgSm2Xh9z_vVFe9_423OykxpOtQlvVeRQWVtApj9INJuMXJaKybY72FtLczbjE4O-UtrTmIiRx-__JhmFlnivYuXUrw1XMxe85ZT9kes3fKWDCuTO4c/s1600/PA230616.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYjn9vbaTPZ5N26LEceDYiQcuUgSm2Xh9z_vVFe9_423OykxpOtQlvVeRQWVtApj9INJuMXJaKybY72FtLczbjE4O-UtrTmIiRx-__JhmFlnivYuXUrw1XMxe85ZT9kes3fKWDCuTO4c/s320/PA230616.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3sZlwqytAcZfImWB5vTkyhS47o0j0uAfnZepTbGnuwsWQaxX71tXkQACXEXejy_tNHLSf938TF51T9xvQnhcKKETkwIYUKXc44p35qT1b-9uriz3o6z1aMT80XQT4fsVrjzozIZFRv6c/s1600/PA230617.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3sZlwqytAcZfImWB5vTkyhS47o0j0uAfnZepTbGnuwsWQaxX71tXkQACXEXejy_tNHLSf938TF51T9xvQnhcKKETkwIYUKXc44p35qT1b-9uriz3o6z1aMT80XQT4fsVrjzozIZFRv6c/s320/PA230617.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Monday morning as we are about to set off on a walk around Portsmouth Village. From left to right that is Graham, Sally, Carol and Jay. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjFKvW-NuE42Ri8ULJm0QwjqSkKIwcZLGV0FlWslcf4O2wfcSbirvhar-yalLhPG9xmLYmdIv8EGRfbsYZ1STdLBbdiUugy4ZTVs-Mbi7l4TzXs3aBEKAEX2ZrKM6ZIpSoIa44dS8I9s/s1600/PA230620.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjFKvW-NuE42Ri8ULJm0QwjqSkKIwcZLGV0FlWslcf4O2wfcSbirvhar-yalLhPG9xmLYmdIv8EGRfbsYZ1STdLBbdiUugy4ZTVs-Mbi7l4TzXs3aBEKAEX2ZrKM6ZIpSoIa44dS8I9s/s320/PA230620.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sally and Carol are crossing one of the tidal creeks that wonder through the village none of which is more that a few feet above high water. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIRAAVKChRQcW-1ErMZWhSaIN03xGKhXxj5DQlxqFr8FOiZqOYvJdLLYnTvwYrDntmyNjehVQm8vaQAIT1UQvhR8PSIUzY2yYQw37CSEBJIdMuNvilacV1aknEnjJTga69YptOOw9bL_w/s1600/PA230656.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIRAAVKChRQcW-1ErMZWhSaIN03xGKhXxj5DQlxqFr8FOiZqOYvJdLLYnTvwYrDntmyNjehVQm8vaQAIT1UQvhR8PSIUzY2yYQw37CSEBJIdMuNvilacV1aknEnjJTga69YptOOw9bL_w/s320/PA230656.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Native Americans had been living on or visiting North Carolina's Outer Banks for centuries. The first permanent English settlement began in 1753. Bath located near the mouth of the Pamlico River was the first English settlement in North Carolina. The most direct route to the Atlantic was through the Ocracoke Inlet. The inlet and Pamlico sound were to shallow for ocean going ships so in 1753 Portsmouth and Ocracoke were founded in order to provide piloting and lightering services to ships wanting to make their way across the Pamlico Sound to Bath. Bath was the nominal capital of the colony and much of the commerce in and out of the state went through Bath and the Ocracoke Inlet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUosTd5g-GVKvi2m8o-2tFUZdqtYmytshKCx1x-vSy9xXCZd6weUw1luCz_KgkkmIfRHKSxJ1k1OrZ1LXwweLIHuiSoi0lFWMI73SBYvzRYZE_OpgOkosN523y29Qur0sA7anx_-bjL2E/s1600/1775-map-by-Henry-Mouzon-et-al-excerpt.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUosTd5g-GVKvi2m8o-2tFUZdqtYmytshKCx1x-vSy9xXCZd6weUw1luCz_KgkkmIfRHKSxJ1k1OrZ1LXwweLIHuiSoi0lFWMI73SBYvzRYZE_OpgOkosN523y29Qur0sA7anx_-bjL2E/s1600/1775-map-by-Henry-Mouzon-et-al-excerpt.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Detail from a 1775 map. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Portsmouth vessels would meet the incoming ships and cargo would be off loaded onto the lighters until the ship's draft was reduced to the point that they could navigate the inlet and shoals of the sound. There were so many vessels passing through the area that in 1894 a pretty swiz United States Life Saving Service Station was built that still stands there today.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbsBdAdkE2AK6Qv3u-PMnWTUb6tNmcGqJFfjDH6bUNVB99yW2uEMNK9h9qcVzRegN8rvmTT3JbHfY38gO5z0xcrmtdTkxR6byECiwH1NFYszGz9liVEWqVbBDSOKSlC_o_I-Ik1z1pTc/s1600/PA230623.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbsBdAdkE2AK6Qv3u-PMnWTUb6tNmcGqJFfjDH6bUNVB99yW2uEMNK9h9qcVzRegN8rvmTT3JbHfY38gO5z0xcrmtdTkxR6byECiwH1NFYszGz9liVEWqVbBDSOKSlC_o_I-Ik1z1pTc/s320/PA230623.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In 1842 1400 vessels passed through Ocracoke Inlet. However a hurricane in September 1846 cut a new inlet through the Outer Banks near Hatteras. This inlet is wider and deeper than the Ocracoke Inlet. Portsmouth began to lose its position of prominence in North Carolina shipping. This site has some more of the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/calo/learn/historyculture/pv_timeline.htm">History of Portsmouth</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-yj1hFbWI3We2Mxe9XZRZQolHrQUipOqyNyKZuyeZ5tThppD1Sjjquw3Vs8jG3hiSMmrNZOUwHhaQknHhPp8aTsDD4AVY7p4OBaaW1tim5Ef9xeKx6qRb-I88zZjkf8sNPtt3pudP5sE/s1600/PA230630.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-yj1hFbWI3We2Mxe9XZRZQolHrQUipOqyNyKZuyeZ5tThppD1Sjjquw3Vs8jG3hiSMmrNZOUwHhaQknHhPp8aTsDD4AVY7p4OBaaW1tim5Ef9xeKx6qRb-I88zZjkf8sNPtt3pudP5sE/s320/PA230630.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Portsmouth Life Saving Station modeled after one designed for Quonochontaug, Rhode Island is maintained along with the other buildings of Portsmouth Village by the National Park Service. Graham is climbing the stairs to the observation room. Below is the view West.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjtn0VieTbQ86emD-slyQGeKuBT2u-kdJFnT3qec0cDN3h8Qn3wynqE5TxMOdU399ZRAg4_ORRerjk2nKBQ2TyNErhW-8MVXzQcZvO4C-ZZfCEWvav15JwlNxbUwii585cjMNIX7g7mE/s1600/PA230637.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjtn0VieTbQ86emD-slyQGeKuBT2u-kdJFnT3qec0cDN3h8Qn3wynqE5TxMOdU399ZRAg4_ORRerjk2nKBQ2TyNErhW-8MVXzQcZvO4C-ZZfCEWvav15JwlNxbUwii585cjMNIX7g7mE/s320/PA230637.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the view East across Ocracoke Inlet. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-hyDuMtyOLb2q3JonCqPin2ZiWz4bLSwsK9krlEcIY_lhpeX2TWYf1jqLblIyy31oOw5vpoh-j1DqrLtm_hO4GZ6h4VhOzVvDAG7DgOisv1xTGq4ftQdydRt5T_VcWu-Aoln4NuG5uI/s1600/PA230643.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-hyDuMtyOLb2q3JonCqPin2ZiWz4bLSwsK9krlEcIY_lhpeX2TWYf1jqLblIyy31oOw5vpoh-j1DqrLtm_hO4GZ6h4VhOzVvDAG7DgOisv1xTGq4ftQdydRt5T_VcWu-Aoln4NuG5uI/s320/PA230643.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Graham asked me if I knew what this was. I told him I thought it might be a device for laying out rope so it would not tangle when it was rapidly deployed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtupQ9UNZBIsGge514bNbzDcnlCOqquAlaHA8nwbo4zvjHSJw0-RDdUEBCEoygmrml6YVrXsenS2-TLIdNulCZMEGVXTW1J7_2b2Q02QDcn8aoW4Hh5IBorMNZYZlFXuvEoLHVDFNN1Jw/s1600/PA230650.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtupQ9UNZBIsGge514bNbzDcnlCOqquAlaHA8nwbo4zvjHSJw0-RDdUEBCEoygmrml6YVrXsenS2-TLIdNulCZMEGVXTW1J7_2b2Q02QDcn8aoW4Hh5IBorMNZYZlFXuvEoLHVDFNN1Jw/s320/PA230650.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The rope was attached to a Lyle gun which fired a projectile carrying the line out to the ship in distress. The light line was then used to pull out a heavier line so a breeches buoy could be pulled back and forth removing passengers from the vessel one at a time. This system was used for wrecks that were with about 600 yards from shore. Further than that boats were used to reach the vessel in distress.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERvRG8EOzDrkOPQpBBI2z_1Hna8VDn5KwjPStGy8JUfyc68BG3hHivywLDMAmNj27IGsDF5I2vTa6jqnHDIlUCLfD_I0vZvezAn8pidJmug1ZquV1EQkHE_DljVOE-4XMPC5Euq8XLYo/s1600/PA230651.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERvRG8EOzDrkOPQpBBI2z_1Hna8VDn5KwjPStGy8JUfyc68BG3hHivywLDMAmNj27IGsDF5I2vTa6jqnHDIlUCLfD_I0vZvezAn8pidJmug1ZquV1EQkHE_DljVOE-4XMPC5Euq8XLYo/s320/PA230651.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjECQSFVI9f9RbF_YMKRpicl_MYGOB58DDQoBiiCxqVHAurt1DstzPKMfUOpnpa9C0j1XQkf6ye8c5NZCHi8nui97Bj9vWU7S4YWqyF9opSI2pW72kkUwkc-c_VbCd4fCEcTEDHqbrCCU/s1600/PA230653.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjECQSFVI9f9RbF_YMKRpicl_MYGOB58DDQoBiiCxqVHAurt1DstzPKMfUOpnpa9C0j1XQkf6ye8c5NZCHi8nui97Bj9vWU7S4YWqyF9opSI2pW72kkUwkc-c_VbCd4fCEcTEDHqbrCCU/s320/PA230653.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just southeast of the Life Saving Building is a path that leads to the beach. There is suppose to be good shelling and a beautiful beach but as I followed the path it entered a thicket and the mosquitos quickly swarmed all over me. I retreated to the open and headed back to the boats. At the dock private boats were bringing tourists over from Ocracoke. Two boats came in while we were there. We spoke with the captains to get some tips on how to avoid the shoals on the way over to Ocracoke.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOe0JNccQylJpViTmRn9Qt1iQflBpaGdOEv_uXkFSQMI53fASavRBe04KTI-3uXz2iqJcCF96X1ub7ZvgatPVQvSlevAsrFXh8nPXDLV0EDD77IjnO4uBJzx-sHOtvfNU-CK4U88tv7A/s1600/PA230658.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOe0JNccQylJpViTmRn9Qt1iQflBpaGdOEv_uXkFSQMI53fASavRBe04KTI-3uXz2iqJcCF96X1ub7ZvgatPVQvSlevAsrFXh8nPXDLV0EDD77IjnO4uBJzx-sHOtvfNU-CK4U88tv7A/s320/PA230658.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sally is cleaning up a bit prior to our trip across the Inlet to Ocracoke. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_W0Svjg02COgIv2KrzLZoSR1Phh7a7bitV5rhw6Ndvc6LjLdFwgVSiw6vJM5SmJkVJuojsWaitEjYLLRpKnFo05-ysZOsFPof4_AzM49DJrwElorFHaPKgC2Ebz2V_CFtx8rdL1f8-I/s1600/PA230664.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_W0Svjg02COgIv2KrzLZoSR1Phh7a7bitV5rhw6Ndvc6LjLdFwgVSiw6vJM5SmJkVJuojsWaitEjYLLRpKnFo05-ysZOsFPof4_AzM49DJrwElorFHaPKgC2Ebz2V_CFtx8rdL1f8-I/s320/PA230664.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Ocracoke is much higher above sea level. They have some beautiful trees.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQ16q5NVHak9Kz_z8l8MUFKsQ6G1zrAE8tpQDa772iUV2i_RjiIKaUnVaH2zgpxTbMwm09ttQoNWoaWWrK-GxKa1j6zRDCjh2Bm9MAxhImsS34hCnV_EGCq7E-LxR53datBZdph-9BoE/s1600/PA230666.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQ16q5NVHak9Kz_z8l8MUFKsQ6G1zrAE8tpQDa772iUV2i_RjiIKaUnVaH2zgpxTbMwm09ttQoNWoaWWrK-GxKa1j6zRDCjh2Bm9MAxhImsS34hCnV_EGCq7E-LxR53datBZdph-9BoE/s320/PA230666.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We rented a golf cart and saw some of the highlights. A German U-boat sunk a British Naval vessel during World War II. The bodies of several British sailors washed ashore and are buried here. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcKC3CZ9MTgjRmTAB4qVKWcaqF9of6xAUbGdvldxX4SvVx1lsSIPElIrrV2Fb6tl0da_38BBYj9wLwXSqh6jcFSMI6BmGG8OsdOfceq0N6bTJXi6pAnaitkXIY3Ya7-Y-66MTAfX4yZko/s1600/PA230668.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcKC3CZ9MTgjRmTAB4qVKWcaqF9of6xAUbGdvldxX4SvVx1lsSIPElIrrV2Fb6tl0da_38BBYj9wLwXSqh6jcFSMI6BmGG8OsdOfceq0N6bTJXi6pAnaitkXIY3Ya7-Y-66MTAfX4yZko/s320/PA230668.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a tree on the lighthouse grounds. I love its twisted trunk and the pruned and asymmetrical shape.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpO3962pFzKqSm5LEANZ4fhiKj4qETsx1MNs_kcJlmjwU4rBKtyPF5vBi4TIU4tkYoLw1XFHsIe2Z_lFWGHItcxY5VSN6gHSB1esCl2xNhz4RibCuzfv2opVnkDbCzlOmhFMbcGRyYG1g/s1600/PA230670.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpO3962pFzKqSm5LEANZ4fhiKj4qETsx1MNs_kcJlmjwU4rBKtyPF5vBi4TIU4tkYoLw1XFHsIe2Z_lFWGHItcxY5VSN6gHSB1esCl2xNhz4RibCuzfv2opVnkDbCzlOmhFMbcGRyYG1g/s320/PA230670.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Ocracoke Lighthouse was built in 1823 and stands 75 feet tall. It is still in operation. Monday night we had dinner at a local restaurant. Weather forecast was calling for winds from the Northwest at 20 to 25 knots. We decided if it was indeed blowing that strong in the morning we would delay our departure. It was well past dark when we got back to our boats. Graham and Carol and Jay motored off to find a quiet place to drop anchor. Our anchor was well set, but we were fairly close to what would be a lee shore. I did not want to sail around in the dark to find another spot so I decided I would deal with the lee shore in the morning. By 4 am the wind had picked up and veered enough that we were swinging up close to a dock. I sat in the cockpit armed with a paddle to push us off. We would swing into the dock. I would push off and we would swing back into the open. After a minute or two we would be up against the dock again.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYv3Jj5EAVfEfYJTvBzMdzKkO1CrTY_R6bspM6XwrW2uirIajuuRG6Rc13UkG7aQAAam_8z4FdDKl6WmhgfxIaLUFqTTYESZrJI0YdX5JLQScwkCmhszPULWqK-Uum1bsgFqBCoTYWRs/s1600/20181024_103621.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYv3Jj5EAVfEfYJTvBzMdzKkO1CrTY_R6bspM6XwrW2uirIajuuRG6Rc13UkG7aQAAam_8z4FdDKl6WmhgfxIaLUFqTTYESZrJI0YdX5JLQScwkCmhszPULWqK-Uum1bsgFqBCoTYWRs/s320/20181024_103621.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
During the night I listened to the weather forecast and it was calling for the wind to drop below 20 knots by late morning. We decided that if the wind eased we would go ahead with the crossing. The morning dawned bright and clear. I set two reefs. We double checked the sheets centerboard and rudder. The wind was at 20 knots and we were pinned on a lee shore between two docks. We would have to get this right the first time. I went forward to weigh anchor. Once the anchor was free the boat started drifting back towards shore. I had to get the anchor the rest of the way up and stowed in the forward well and then make my way back to the cockpit. I pulled the mainsail over and off we shot on a port tack. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We sailed back and forth across the harbor and out towards the sound. The wind was blowing over 20kts with stronger gusts. We could manage the boat fine in the harbor but we felt it was unwise to attempt the long unfamiliar crossing in these wind conditions. We dropped anchor near Graham and told him we felt it would be better to wait to see if the wind would drop off a little.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We relaxed in the cockpit, by noon it was still blowing hard and we had some lunch. Finally around 1pm the wind began to ease. This was late in the day to be contemplating a crossing that could take 8 to 10 hours. Jay and Carrol decided they would stay another night. Graham said he was OK either way. It was really too late in the day but I did not want to delay our return.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We began some final preparations and it was nearly 2pm when we waved goodbye to Carol and Jay and headed out of the harbor with Carlita leading the way. Graham wanted to explore the shoals around Ocracoke Inlet so we began our trip by retracing our track from yesterday. The wind soon dropped to around 15 kts and we had a wonderful sail back to the Wallace Channel.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVAlW6HtBJjc-0s42M1O3tADETpxCegFQ35YdsEyXl6jt0MP984j423fPqPBauwA5o8gMQibWsz7dI911AXc-eSRiHE1mDhezXmgnXHUiV_SAhNE4CXhCBkf2qaNF0VzGVukcSl4JPhQ/s1600/Ocracoke+Chart.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="932" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVAlW6HtBJjc-0s42M1O3tADETpxCegFQ35YdsEyXl6jt0MP984j423fPqPBauwA5o8gMQibWsz7dI911AXc-eSRiHE1mDhezXmgnXHUiV_SAhNE4CXhCBkf2qaNF0VzGVukcSl4JPhQ/s320/Ocracoke+Chart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had been on a broad reach down to Ocracoke Inlet but as we entered the Wallace Channel we had to trim in our sails and head West northwest. We set a course for Brant Island Shoal. We began to pull away from Graham, but then he shook out his reefs and began to pass us. I considered taking a reef out but the sun was not far from the horizon and I would rather be over reefed with darkness approaching.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCTcftJpWwHChwNujru4JEb9LIy0opYTjjoSW9bYEUSgy0_JrH1tPhG-AkXEUppE1vqfCeNjHOtsrQaLUBltDlUuP6znjpj_AZp0VvIooHZVqN8PZT0DzFNZbEe5hKaQ2mBXRuGF41xNE/s1600/Bay+River+to+Ocracoke.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="968" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCTcftJpWwHChwNujru4JEb9LIy0opYTjjoSW9bYEUSgy0_JrH1tPhG-AkXEUppE1vqfCeNjHOtsrQaLUBltDlUuP6znjpj_AZp0VvIooHZVqN8PZT0DzFNZbEe5hKaQ2mBXRuGF41xNE/s400/Bay+River+to+Ocracoke.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By the time we reached the tip of Brant Island Shoal the sun had gone down. Soon the moon began to rise. We knew this was going to happen, so I can't say we were surprised. We were tired, we had not had much sleep the night before and it had been a long day. It is getting dark and we still have 15miles to go to the mouth of the Bay River, 20 some miles to Chapel Creek. And wouldn't you know the wind began to increase and back till it was nearly on our nose. When the wind picks up the waves on the Pamlico build very quickly. These wave were only about 2 feet but they were steep and very close together. Sally went into the cabin to switch on the navigation lights and we settled down for the long slog ahead. I removed my sunglasses but I did not want to hunt up my regular glasses so I did without, my distance vision is not very good. In the choppy conditions I found it difficult to keep the boat on course. There were a few red lights visible but I could not take the time to determine what they were. I got a magnetic course from the gps then I would try keep to that heading using the compass. After a while I would check back with the GPS. Switching my vision from looking out for waves and obstructions, (We knew there were unlit poles marking the prohibited zone near our course.) to watching the sails, to checking the compass was difficult and tiring. At last I noticed a star 10 degrees or so above the horizon right on our course. Having a star on our course made it much easier. I could stay on course while at the same time watching for the wind, waves and obstructions. We could not see Graham we knew he was somewhere in front of us. We would learn later that he was actually quite close. He could easily see our lights, but unbeknownst to us his lights were not working.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our bow plunged into one of the waves and sent water streaming up the front of the cabin and across the roof. I have never seen so much water come over the bow of SKORPA. At night for me on a sailboat everything is three times worse than during the day. We were not panicking but hunkering down aware of the growing fatigue and measuring the distance to the Bay River.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Slowly almost imperceptively the waves began to diminish. Then the wind eased as we entered the mouth of the Bay River. We became more aware of navigational lights and shore lights. Suddenly some yellow lights appeared just in front of us. I thought they were reflectors on a pole or some people in a small boat fishing. Sally called out to them. I turned the boat hard to starboard to avoid running into them. Then the lights receded a couple of miles back to the shoreline.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was around 9pm when we came up to Bonner Bay. I had been looking forward to getting here for the last four hours. My plan had been to drop anchor as soon as possible and just collapse on my bunk. Now the river was quiet, the wind light, Skorpa moved steadily. All the tension had dropped away leaving relief and adrenaline. I suggested to Sally that she go into the cabin, call Graham, and change into some dry clothes. The night air was cool and we were wet and shivering. She hesitated at first to leave her post, but I assured her I would be fine.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I could hear her talking on the phone." Graham we made it!!" she exclaimed. " I know" he replied matter-of-factly. " I have been watching you."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We decided to continue on to Chapel Creek. We wanted to savor the moment. The magic of sailing quietly up the river at night was all the more intense because of the contrast with the wet and tense ride through the waves on the Sound. Sally fixed some crackers and cheese. They were so good. I shook out the reefs. Occasionally we could catch a glimpse of Carlita's sail up ahead.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We met up with Graham in Chapel Creek very near where we knew his dock to be. Clouds had moved in to cover the moon. In the darkness we could not see any landmarks. We just headed in the direction of the dock trusting we would see it before we ran into it. Sure enough when we were about 50 fifty feet off, the dock began to take shape out of the greyness.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a little after midnight. We had a little celebratory greeting on the dock and then we all retreated to our bunks for a quiet sleep.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-34575633955450681302018-04-09T13:32:00.001-07:002021-02-07T16:19:56.632-08:00Everglades Challenge Florida Bay<br />
My boat an EC 22 was designed for and named after the Everglades Challenge Race. The Everglades Challenge is a small boat race that starts at Fort Desoto Park near Tampa Florida and ends 300 miles later at Key Largo.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfadKbTFZlJ0ztuLlSW6nkS5I7IQDo_wnGT1PfLIzOv9lkidjyhBcm4xjgCYt9VdSgp4kvNGTWdnz_lMXoMJYHdIOYU0YcwdrnbaEiEy4KlSAXwT8EP3MuRcUSC58hF2lHSP3sq9Nz61g/s1600/03-19-2018+11%253B18%253B19AM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1100" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfadKbTFZlJ0ztuLlSW6nkS5I7IQDo_wnGT1PfLIzOv9lkidjyhBcm4xjgCYt9VdSgp4kvNGTWdnz_lMXoMJYHdIOYU0YcwdrnbaEiEy4KlSAXwT8EP3MuRcUSC58hF2lHSP3sq9Nz61g/s640/03-19-2018+11%253B18%253B19AM.jpg" width="440" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Three years ago Sally and I launched SKORPA at Chokoloskee and sailed down to Ponce de Leon Bay and back. I chronicled that trip in a previous post. <a href="http://sundogboatbuilding.blogspot.com/2015/01/march-to-everglades.html">March to the Everglades</a> This year our plan was to watch the start of the race at Fort Desoto and then trailer our boat down to Flamingo and spend several days exploring Florida Bay.<br />
<br />
We met our cousin Karen at Fort Desoto Park. We caught up on old times while surveying the varied, and interesting line up of boats pulled above the high tide mark for the start of the race.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivHmYKWoHPzYOVwhzxra4a6p2ZYDQVEIi9V3iuGp_E03v0I2dLo3gfgEsMCpdz_boOZrDucoTyX0g4o1ghdq_yOTl8w5ochGWFsoDnKHAvnzzpbknT601aF1VRI08yw3dnX7uJA5d5gd4/s1600/P3010022.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivHmYKWoHPzYOVwhzxra4a6p2ZYDQVEIi9V3iuGp_E03v0I2dLo3gfgEsMCpdz_boOZrDucoTyX0g4o1ghdq_yOTl8w5ochGWFsoDnKHAvnzzpbknT601aF1VRI08yw3dnX7uJA5d5gd4/s320/P3010022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The campground is located on St Christopher Key in Tampa Bay and the race starts on the adjoining Mullet Key. In the photo below I am looking at a tricked out CS 17 with wishbone sprit booms, a nice dodger and lots of carbon fiber.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmw8fcQfTUfymo7RW6fqGzuYsxGhm9wnz4tIuH0rt36XfsBNGxrqQmWYXyW5_x_KoTFMfgZbh9WTt0O3voEhZm5zl96J02KyhmYaL-L0rKlqte1eeSxUgrcExkbnvDtSwv_wU9lmRuvx8/s1600/P3030038.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmw8fcQfTUfymo7RW6fqGzuYsxGhm9wnz4tIuH0rt36XfsBNGxrqQmWYXyW5_x_KoTFMfgZbh9WTt0O3voEhZm5zl96J02KyhmYaL-L0rKlqte1eeSxUgrcExkbnvDtSwv_wU9lmRuvx8/s320/P3030038.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Speaking of carbon fiber, Randy Smyth's boat is a light and fast trimaran with a wing mast to boot.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEfZ1pfglt4agYhMx8m1gwkC8pzhqftAyu05GT4hn0HC0rMU_XKx1oh5iuNesNYpfFy7EXJZsUtxxRvls5RyBC8vep2f68LmZHz8IhVAqX-tKZXDf8p7m7SJf-1I6MAeOGXg1673tMd5A/s1600/P3030041.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEfZ1pfglt4agYhMx8m1gwkC8pzhqftAyu05GT4hn0HC0rMU_XKx1oh5iuNesNYpfFy7EXJZsUtxxRvls5RyBC8vep2f68LmZHz8IhVAqX-tKZXDf8p7m7SJf-1I6MAeOGXg1673tMd5A/s320/P3030041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidNX_VZDlzc4LjX0kYfoKak6FistaA-VvOSj1_4jVImSJ8JJVt3qmBl-5NYOqc7j0dojqSdk-KQXCjVlbMBPbA50WiPGxxaXUzamThXkSP3ZaATHRbSGc5OIujON62wSmjnFm3pmFoWQo/s1600/P3030046.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidNX_VZDlzc4LjX0kYfoKak6FistaA-VvOSj1_4jVImSJ8JJVt3qmBl-5NYOqc7j0dojqSdk-KQXCjVlbMBPbA50WiPGxxaXUzamThXkSP3ZaATHRbSGc5OIujON62wSmjnFm3pmFoWQo/s320/P3030046.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Looking down the beach at the variety of water craft over fifty small sailboats and 30 or so kayaks.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKXY4kMIsFNixjhf22R9j-F-9wJxsnWMXBvZHI06Qum-ufhmEqo2VQ1VJ570XN_7pbqMxQHkpV-SP6rcrFSuoGqsW9hXuHxH6R2t9H6_pI318mfAVVK7qsw0rSWSBgZdsV-JZTF8d3Plo/s1600/P3020025.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKXY4kMIsFNixjhf22R9j-F-9wJxsnWMXBvZHI06Qum-ufhmEqo2VQ1VJ570XN_7pbqMxQHkpV-SP6rcrFSuoGqsW9hXuHxH6R2t9H6_pI318mfAVVK7qsw0rSWSBgZdsV-JZTF8d3Plo/s320/P3020025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Some boats built just for speed some built for beauty or some combination of the two.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpzilwt-pkehPS5Ts-k5Gsuc1DcLjIIid4rX6PVfwi2zKNBL8Lc4sDY-5s7fjtilomNPJ3AOd2tXpxxkvjmI_VgTcplL3zIJJVa8WxTlPN-QdxMfLNgYvFpcaNs94k4XBjvKeNYRGuIy4/s1600/P3020024.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpzilwt-pkehPS5Ts-k5Gsuc1DcLjIIid4rX6PVfwi2zKNBL8Lc4sDY-5s7fjtilomNPJ3AOd2tXpxxkvjmI_VgTcplL3zIJJVa8WxTlPN-QdxMfLNgYvFpcaNs94k4XBjvKeNYRGuIy4/s320/P3020024.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The variety of boats is amazing. Sally and Karen are looking over a new CS 17mk3.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9v1OsKXhPT9lDgq4odEpsHXpEYjS82JXJ3pi1k9-fzrmAEbsC5hyphenhyphen6xTb99Fihh2WYldXrti_agC2Rh8g0zdQRHDFJoaCTkqORNCnAxMr1KBztcmSqRAVEi_XLdqWurSRmnj-xNpOl-s/s1600/P3020026.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9v1OsKXhPT9lDgq4odEpsHXpEYjS82JXJ3pi1k9-fzrmAEbsC5hyphenhyphen6xTb99Fihh2WYldXrti_agC2Rh8g0zdQRHDFJoaCTkqORNCnAxMr1KBztcmSqRAVEi_XLdqWurSRmnj-xNpOl-s/s320/P3020026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Kayaks, sailboats, and SUPs are all going to try to make 300 miles along the southwestern coast of Florida in seven days or less.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqlsmfJmJTCvXyswWnpV7e_6uPoR3otNiUW7h60ZYXat201pTWZkFnk9lMv5OxPEJNa2qd2lqKWLLSk6Bfrd8TZPSJX6o9JVDvT_BtLPTOk2ppwlrjIxs6grpm7OQRR7jMa9YBw71WPfI/s1600/P3030042.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqlsmfJmJTCvXyswWnpV7e_6uPoR3otNiUW7h60ZYXat201pTWZkFnk9lMv5OxPEJNa2qd2lqKWLLSk6Bfrd8TZPSJX6o9JVDvT_BtLPTOk2ppwlrjIxs6grpm7OQRR7jMa9YBw71WPfI/s320/P3030042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We have followed the race online for several years and we know several of the participants from the annual B&B Mess-about. Below Sally greets Watertriber Sandy Bottom as she completes last minute preparations to her Kruger Sea Wind.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUxageHWtrs3AKBg-znE5lM8g-0o-yMjk_bb0vUT27w58a43dU-8S3gOXOzY98VsWzAti8Fmff9TRQXRnd9Tvk3xAbbaceSxum6dHZ7q3NUQg_B7A8HYm_HCoQmQmXEMh5p6JQCKsjUdc/s1600/P3030030.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUxageHWtrs3AKBg-znE5lM8g-0o-yMjk_bb0vUT27w58a43dU-8S3gOXOzY98VsWzAti8Fmff9TRQXRnd9Tvk3xAbbaceSxum6dHZ7q3NUQg_B7A8HYm_HCoQmQmXEMh5p6JQCKsjUdc/s320/P3030030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
A hug for good luck.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBB0vDZEB7_vT0JOWvmlPLb29O6cHUNH0vGjHSBC9v3YILdz4XLb9ZbHJ3C5ILKMfZxvopJFmbTrzT8VVh-hjopT97UHi-Ht2e1b0D9nY_A5kMkq3MW1wi7CoRT2AS6cmogXrospP0-gc/s1600/P3030031.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBB0vDZEB7_vT0JOWvmlPLb29O6cHUNH0vGjHSBC9v3YILdz4XLb9ZbHJ3C5ILKMfZxvopJFmbTrzT8VVh-hjopT97UHi-Ht2e1b0D9nY_A5kMkq3MW1wi7CoRT2AS6cmogXrospP0-gc/s320/P3030031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPIGPkdn__0ewFgj00bmr5FMrxVbyaLlQIoHCRCnbu24yh27jjKFAeg7zzxPo_amRzCY4yspZ4RSWAWBzQDdMjPPm1KmOq9BX8RYqusWmb-1cXq1vHEVS-8w1qtcjVsSj6JpKK-kL3SE/s1600/P3030028.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPIGPkdn__0ewFgj00bmr5FMrxVbyaLlQIoHCRCnbu24yh27jjKFAeg7zzxPo_amRzCY4yspZ4RSWAWBzQDdMjPPm1KmOq9BX8RYqusWmb-1cXq1vHEVS-8w1qtcjVsSj6JpKK-kL3SE/s320/P3030028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The sun was just rising through the spans of the Tampa Bay bridge, the atmosphere was filled with a nervous excitement as the 7am start time approached and alas passed as there was to be a two hour delay in the start. Below is a link to a video of the start.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1jDV3lYDyo">Start of the Everglades Challenge Race Fort Desoto, Florida</a><br />
<br />
<br />
After we saw the racers off, we said farewell to Karen and headed south for Flamingo. This is the view from the visitors center looking out into Florida Bay.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmpHYn8kONQpuezHmxWYe4QM-ayT4cS6_PbNtVBsT1-kznIG971FO0Qs67a_0GstzkxlJxBl6M-Ey45zJvWPqxHm3i6MMDVcv2_TOMPYDaDx9d5Kp95YsBE8300kMCmOR4j87mtwZRkL0/s1600/P3040049.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmpHYn8kONQpuezHmxWYe4QM-ayT4cS6_PbNtVBsT1-kznIG971FO0Qs67a_0GstzkxlJxBl6M-Ey45zJvWPqxHm3i6MMDVcv2_TOMPYDaDx9d5Kp95YsBE8300kMCmOR4j87mtwZRkL0/s320/P3040049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We met two of the Watertribe race officials who were manning Check Point 3, waiting for the first racers to come in.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGPig60Dt3OvH2u7E1DwssL3hqc8EsBbD8Un4wPxf4KVxVGxmuSoUZMeJWHtFHuf3Py3lgEYIl5C73F5XGm7sPNoXMozSlOvIjahO3baGH3zzkNsEzHHbzdF2HYx_v0ei8nOOJefPAQY/s1600/P3040050.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGPig60Dt3OvH2u7E1DwssL3hqc8EsBbD8Un4wPxf4KVxVGxmuSoUZMeJWHtFHuf3Py3lgEYIl5C73F5XGm7sPNoXMozSlOvIjahO3baGH3zzkNsEzHHbzdF2HYx_v0ei8nOOJefPAQY/s320/P3040050.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Why did we take longer than usual to get the boat rigged and loaded with food, water, and gear for our seven day excursion into Florida Bay. We sat and watched the Manatees playing in the harbor. Flamingo was still recovering from Hurricane Irma. Only one bathroom was open, and the water was off for several hours. I had been warned that the local vultures liked to peck at the rubber gaskets and wiper blades of vehicles left in the marina parking lot. The vultures were especially fond of new cars. I fastened the tent fly over the front of our new car. Finally about 1pm we were off, heading west for Cape Sable. We passed the two lead boats in the race heading east to the Flamingo check point as we headed out. The wind was out of the NE at 10-15 knots so we made good progress, but the wind backed first to the North and then the Northwest. Cape Sable is made up of East Cape, Middle Cape, and Northwest Cape. Our course now lay almost dead into the wind, a pounding chop, and a chilly breeze did not make for comfortable sailing, but we pushed on hoping to find a little shelter up close to Middle Cape. Sally is pleased that we managed to find an anchorage before the sun set.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVag-ZfA4ryFw0R58jdYk7x3j8gf-ecWg2QOzMQxL0Ki5uh9iqBZnUBvIy4ZQUvTF5R3V1zag0VoWjv6xF7Ig9AxKp2HXTXaGkmth6ZaC_238_dKJiJwlYCHA2R9wlYFmOtYLLaRw-Y28/s1600/P3040053r.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVag-ZfA4ryFw0R58jdYk7x3j8gf-ecWg2QOzMQxL0Ki5uh9iqBZnUBvIy4ZQUvTF5R3V1zag0VoWjv6xF7Ig9AxKp2HXTXaGkmth6ZaC_238_dKJiJwlYCHA2R9wlYFmOtYLLaRw-Y28/s320/P3040053r.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
In the morning we moved Skorpa in close to shore and got out for a beautiful walk. We were now about 12 miles from our southern most anchorage on our trip out of Chokoloskee three years ago.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYXs9OSn4bguU-Yukf8s64Z1YNnPiOysh0j9cRHp229Xg2OMN8AZHJFydw3pn2Cj7L0m04sMkW1_i_pZuhFho8MAVERLcIjyMqH_mSNcd1hbqlRPMpeE7j2Wdd19RTVSXJ6lbSTlyzi-g/s1600/P3050062.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYXs9OSn4bguU-Yukf8s64Z1YNnPiOysh0j9cRHp229Xg2OMN8AZHJFydw3pn2Cj7L0m04sMkW1_i_pZuhFho8MAVERLcIjyMqH_mSNcd1hbqlRPMpeE7j2Wdd19RTVSXJ6lbSTlyzi-g/s320/P3050062.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Miles and miles of pristine beach.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSNtK_224dgUbm2QJFcSl94iaRNvfjf-JDsYVe5sljni9l3FfJq-oRromHSvDLPq4Im7NIUCxj6ADWca817FkPcVD9lFvmFyehKG5siZ6HrZOLRv7C_DxIIMnyG0dBkzQ5M-js1PranWo/s1600/P3050064.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSNtK_224dgUbm2QJFcSl94iaRNvfjf-JDsYVe5sljni9l3FfJq-oRromHSvDLPq4Im7NIUCxj6ADWca817FkPcVD9lFvmFyehKG5siZ6HrZOLRv7C_DxIIMnyG0dBkzQ5M-js1PranWo/s320/P3050064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0sRpbMRN8i_ZY43aEpjXITkEuxgguqWqsqzk-bzY_cix3JmhmSWNrpD08eWRiLonW65y43lQaFpeY4UAlTPWWUe9wPSY4euWQa8vUXyrDTohwbrZlJtnHpRkBjFmQGK3NEosAsq_JMY/s1600/P3050065.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0sRpbMRN8i_ZY43aEpjXITkEuxgguqWqsqzk-bzY_cix3JmhmSWNrpD08eWRiLonW65y43lQaFpeY4UAlTPWWUe9wPSY4euWQa8vUXyrDTohwbrZlJtnHpRkBjFmQGK3NEosAsq_JMY/s320/P3050065.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Next day we were off heading south. We did not have a destination just a direction, but as the day got later we decided to anchor off Sandy Key. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_Cn_SOqJKunXmxUL-dU8y5U71GJ4xHWD3C3IrGLSVgLDB86-XivJLGAZwyQCpSteMlQOmtRU0Hgo0_lX506uZH4XeQFQiV66edF3UuPywFiXPFZuSCOkCLRFWjVWhP-Eg45ii0r8nbU/s1600/P3050066.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_Cn_SOqJKunXmxUL-dU8y5U71GJ4xHWD3C3IrGLSVgLDB86-XivJLGAZwyQCpSteMlQOmtRU0Hgo0_lX506uZH4XeQFQiV66edF3UuPywFiXPFZuSCOkCLRFWjVWhP-Eg45ii0r8nbU/s320/P3050066.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sandy Key is posted with signs asking visitors to stay away. Hundreds of birds use it as a rookery. White Pelicans, Brown Pelicans, Herons, Egrets, numerous smaller birds. There seemed to be no room left on the branches. The quiet Florida night was interrupted frequently with squawking and shrieking. We decided to leave them their space and enjoyed watching through binoculars so I don't have any photos that do Sandy Key justice.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgoetEwK6W2LvmDE9ueRgkBaN-uVAQKeWvHMezj3YPSmy_hUoLpHjbBu4HBAVOVKodMHtPTJDAPRSHDJ7bf7Xk2yvgW_EJlDkzjQusLs0sXAN40nX6M58kotIeNbfMDa1P9SkajRQ1AL4/s1600/P3050067.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgoetEwK6W2LvmDE9ueRgkBaN-uVAQKeWvHMezj3YPSmy_hUoLpHjbBu4HBAVOVKodMHtPTJDAPRSHDJ7bf7Xk2yvgW_EJlDkzjQusLs0sXAN40nX6M58kotIeNbfMDa1P9SkajRQ1AL4/s320/P3050067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
In the morning we set off to explore Man of War Channel to get a feel for what it would be like exploring the shallows of Florida Bay. We got through the channel no problems. On the other side we explored Johnson Key and the photo below is the Johnson Key Chickee. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRAui-G3gZQ2RWwHVXY0NihL1HSANeoMUCB0DbXnvKjLVYg3nmxV3I9SY0JOp-P5QKej0n2d4rOJU0ZG8HidC5WRqk-5gSlL7ZLJjIzHQwncH9P9bOF2qTKq3qXFMN_6pkwQsce1OFgA/s1600/P3060071.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRAui-G3gZQ2RWwHVXY0NihL1HSANeoMUCB0DbXnvKjLVYg3nmxV3I9SY0JOp-P5QKej0n2d4rOJU0ZG8HidC5WRqk-5gSlL7ZLJjIzHQwncH9P9bOF2qTKq3qXFMN_6pkwQsce1OFgA/s320/P3060071.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
We anchored close to Man of War Key for lunch. If you look closely you should be able to make out the Brown Pelicans roosting in the Mangrove branches. During our lunch stop we heard a favorable weather forecast for the next few days. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8a5ql33WDt-wTCmSxVhO4a5KpgmY4VPne5DIdnv9xluGXxvUtWql5JHQ-U129f1w8NrBxKGUeUAtts-7Dun080SQSVDFLAlIxrnxRxyo4nCihshFS_MMGDMuo0lv8BSVhPd9toj_drcI/s1600/P3060075.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8a5ql33WDt-wTCmSxVhO4a5KpgmY4VPne5DIdnv9xluGXxvUtWql5JHQ-U129f1w8NrBxKGUeUAtts-7Dun080SQSVDFLAlIxrnxRxyo4nCihshFS_MMGDMuo0lv8BSVhPd9toj_drcI/s320/P3060075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We decided we would try to make the run to Key Largo about 30 miles away.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2YiMdRu5zYOJhB8BfNKDrR0iJEBZWnxLYpmoHkEXyPOrD8V8yMSklw_erOMygqw2gF8BmUAe5gBxarcD_U7RE4tGuwWO-_rfTDBBxUmxmKYgyn1ncCqKkcxZL9IgImrfQIBh06CSVKc/s1600/P3060074.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2YiMdRu5zYOJhB8BfNKDrR0iJEBZWnxLYpmoHkEXyPOrD8V8yMSklw_erOMygqw2gF8BmUAe5gBxarcD_U7RE4tGuwWO-_rfTDBBxUmxmKYgyn1ncCqKkcxZL9IgImrfQIBh06CSVKc/s320/P3060074.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
As we approached Long Key one of the Watertribe racers caught up with us. His name was Bjorn. He asked how far to Key Largo. I told him 20 miles or so. He was tired and cold but wanted to press on. He was hoping we would accompany him. He was disappointed when I told him we were going to stop for the night at Lignumvitae Key.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqUOQG0owJkN6o3K7FOgleHWvi_pnd5Y-TvQCI3D8yTGt_pHFAbIeVSrXVnd1GcMjfHIyJrCvd8HW5eDeHrTUACsRI58QUp-jwGmEBsIZcF3BdT-pW835rQ6QngZbtL7NcxTiXttRHqbI/s1600/P3060095.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqUOQG0owJkN6o3K7FOgleHWvi_pnd5Y-TvQCI3D8yTGt_pHFAbIeVSrXVnd1GcMjfHIyJrCvd8HW5eDeHrTUACsRI58QUp-jwGmEBsIZcF3BdT-pW835rQ6QngZbtL7NcxTiXttRHqbI/s320/P3060095.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Lignum vitae is a much sought after tropical hardwood, hard and durable. The Key named after the wood is a beautiful nature preserve tucked up beside the developed Keys that lay along Route 1. I wished we had taken some time to explore it, but we headed off for Key Largo.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NivLw3GJyTI">Video Sailing East to Key Largo</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmKpeI--Jbs">Video Sailing through Cowpens Cut</a><br />
<br />
<br />
We arrived at Key Largo, the finish of the Everglades Challenge on Wednesday afternoon. Several Watertribe racers had already finished, but most were still out on the course. They would arrive singly and in small groups over the next few days. We spent the days ashore visiting with friends and making new ones and enjoying the amenities of Key Largo like hot showers and Mrs Mac's Kitchen.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View of the finish line at Key Largo.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkA5f9xdgdjLqXrfkEzSCP2_WVGChKX0vtL3WSpcZ_4KkfrGl9bRqcx2MMbA5RSNKsEChGcNZJaq4iPCCQwlZWuIQrM8hCIlvL92BWwCAgJYw6FSkyRQUs9mkVtCFvJ9U6yDpP42gYsKQ/s1600/P3090133.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkA5f9xdgdjLqXrfkEzSCP2_WVGChKX0vtL3WSpcZ_4KkfrGl9bRqcx2MMbA5RSNKsEChGcNZJaq4iPCCQwlZWuIQrM8hCIlvL92BWwCAgJYw6FSkyRQUs9mkVtCFvJ9U6yDpP42gYsKQ/s320/P3090133.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
J.F. Bedard is taking out Matt Layden's Illusion for a test sail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeD2o5Du2JFNaYv2NxWofPVxsFufe4TXGWLlfaeiAslFgZmHPULmiZ5QbOmrzjSRmBH72z1hagjbfPelRCHiYNqk4p_Hw-UKuMRa7YS2AkAW681BIaJXceCum5n7mlDboWutwkKjzEhxU/s1600/P3090130.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeD2o5Du2JFNaYv2NxWofPVxsFufe4TXGWLlfaeiAslFgZmHPULmiZ5QbOmrzjSRmBH72z1hagjbfPelRCHiYNqk4p_Hw-UKuMRa7YS2AkAW681BIaJXceCum5n7mlDboWutwkKjzEhxU/s320/P3090130.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
A Bolger Sneakeasy powered by Photovoltaic panels hums across the finish line.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUNlHB_OrzbnxflumsX5BDhlTV5gTREkuq8Ub7t7dNF45-lf3sJulSDLXf4XDYTeUVW3j2aFbmpp2nJzArAs3sXhNRBdErLIQvW6u6cdXJA7paF7NG7YsE7ZIu7gYytby1QodwyKBKbxs/s1600/P3090126.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUNlHB_OrzbnxflumsX5BDhlTV5gTREkuq8Ub7t7dNF45-lf3sJulSDLXf4XDYTeUVW3j2aFbmpp2nJzArAs3sXhNRBdErLIQvW6u6cdXJA7paF7NG7YsE7ZIu7gYytby1QodwyKBKbxs/s320/P3090126.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Enjoying a night out a Mrs. Mac's!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOy8UN9S9gAaoKGxL9xDvE-uopGqoU5vAbTXa6wRUuhBNIi-X8yM-Kg-FRB0h1hne-ewPC4M3i7m6Akqw8IddQBF5XFBpYYLMyS-MP3rBcJbLvlxerkqaorLS_G33_RFWCRns46ldDyDQ/s1600/P3090148.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOy8UN9S9gAaoKGxL9xDvE-uopGqoU5vAbTXa6wRUuhBNIi-X8yM-Kg-FRB0h1hne-ewPC4M3i7m6Akqw8IddQBF5XFBpYYLMyS-MP3rBcJbLvlxerkqaorLS_G33_RFWCRns46ldDyDQ/s320/P3090148.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The wind blew hard out of the North for a couple of days. When on Saturday the wind veered to the southeast we decided it was time for us to attempt a crossing of Florida Bay to Flamingo. Florida Bay looks like a lot of open water dotted with low Mangrove covered islands, but much of that water is only a foot or two deep. To complicate matters the water level rises and falls in a twice daily lunar cycle in some parts of the bay but not in others. The wind can also affect the water level by three feet or so. Traversing the bay can go from a pleasure cruise to a nightmare. The bay can go from mostly water to mostly mud for a day or two or several days. Below is a link to some videos of our crossing.<br />
When we left Key Largo we had a 15knot wind from the South southeast. We were on a reach with pretty smooth water. Our boat speed was about 8 knots.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bP7nSE8_jA">Video Moving along nicely.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Here are a couple of videos of us negotiating some of the shallower areas. The channels have colorful names like Twisty Mile and Crocodile Dragover. We had it pretty easy as the water level was about "normal".<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idcZ8Hr-k6k&t=0s&list=PLlv56JnoZ8diyaIut1vEu1Wm1cereF8KP&index=8">Video Twisty Mile</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pknbh8lukcI">Video Dump Key Pass</a><br />
<br />
It was truly satisfying to slip back into the little harbor at Flamingo. No motor, no noise, just the sails bringing us in through the tight entrance. We didn't even use the oars.<br />
<br />
On the way out of Flamingo we stopped at a couple of the waysides to view some of the remaining Mahogany Trees.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_OaOD1oLhomod-WlzF4B4OlnujlSKub63IjDmnCNwSX0P7z3oBbXcPRTCDqoV3_zgoSlDDOMzCNQ9GDu8CaPMmMsU4jKq-7EiEqBNHiWIAyAkoCjydP_tDCMWaFhdKGCpu2lugIjvdA/s1600/P3110184.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_OaOD1oLhomod-WlzF4B4OlnujlSKub63IjDmnCNwSX0P7z3oBbXcPRTCDqoV3_zgoSlDDOMzCNQ9GDu8CaPMmMsU4jKq-7EiEqBNHiWIAyAkoCjydP_tDCMWaFhdKGCpu2lugIjvdA/s320/P3110184.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
And to say farewell to Pay-Hay Okee, Grassy Waters!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv73JaO1ubtHaLfv2lCJ7thiX55fMLbVu_oUKg7pHkQXIp2djmcnZHUaCAiCr94IFqVRrQVk4_woG8eftfewiSQblG1zvE5s_nl4Lgc_PFcAzU33f9v3Di-DqeWRNRgaFIKR_DlXM52jo/s1600/P3110190.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv73JaO1ubtHaLfv2lCJ7thiX55fMLbVu_oUKg7pHkQXIp2djmcnZHUaCAiCr94IFqVRrQVk4_woG8eftfewiSQblG1zvE5s_nl4Lgc_PFcAzU33f9v3Di-DqeWRNRgaFIKR_DlXM52jo/s320/P3110190.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-51918635578527861772017-09-19T09:35:00.000-07:002017-09-19T09:35:25.144-07:00Tarpaulin CoveTarpaulin Cove is on the eastern side of Naushon Island, the largest of the Elizabeth Islands. They are located between Martha's Vineyard and the coast of Massachusetts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAEocS6ysorGrmlnZa0_Hr8NA6GF6S3BKbGC4_1YZnkazlxSSSEfia3TB2zyMAkgucqmyq5vcbfRKvWCrjv7dYgsSdA5TVbsshiSsDnWIh2ZTnKA8tsZPU9ABk6mxoRAcf52a0uvCf52E/s1600/79d39-hole.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="352" data-original-width="650" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAEocS6ysorGrmlnZa0_Hr8NA6GF6S3BKbGC4_1YZnkazlxSSSEfia3TB2zyMAkgucqmyq5vcbfRKvWCrjv7dYgsSdA5TVbsshiSsDnWIh2ZTnKA8tsZPU9ABk6mxoRAcf52a0uvCf52E/s640/79d39-hole.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Wednesday August 9, 2017 I sailed from Great Island with food and water for three days. The skies were clear and the wind was from the southwest at 10-15 knots. I was close hauled but I had the tide with me as I negotiated the Point Judith Breach Way. Still close hauled I made the east gap and then as I rounded Point Judith I was able to move to a broad reach. Tarpaulin Cove lay 35 nautical miles ahead and it was already 1pm, I wanted to arrive before dark. Much depended on what the wind and tides had in store for me. It would be close but everything felt good so I decided to go for it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8Tp3OTUYyADXy-KR5t0RAejHS1GJ62zMn7hrTMG-hbWU3tjqNqeSQww_JwcA2mrMzODL3bcVAk-L2QHvTHzJEo59cx-hyQr7k0P52qxwV5qcVFR9_p1rWDlLaDRWEDu7YuHo3mV5vzQ/s1600/P8091832a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1052" data-original-width="1402" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8Tp3OTUYyADXy-KR5t0RAejHS1GJ62zMn7hrTMG-hbWU3tjqNqeSQww_JwcA2mrMzODL3bcVAk-L2QHvTHzJEo59cx-hyQr7k0P52qxwV5qcVFR9_p1rWDlLaDRWEDu7YuHo3mV5vzQ/s320/P8091832a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Instead of moving a mile or two further east toward the center of Vineyard Sound I stayed close to Sow and Pig Reef and the east side of Cuttyhunk. This shortened my route just a bit but I met some very steep two foot standing waves as the southwest wind now down to 10 knots met the ebbing Vineyard Sound current. In most places the current was around 1.5 knots but it was closer to 2.5 knots in the 15 to 20 foot water I was cutting through. I was a little concerned as Skorpa buried her bow deep into the waves, as deep as I have every buried her bow. I was unsure how long I would face these waves or if they would get worse before they got better. Of course I never should have cut this close to the reef or negotiated the shallows with a strong apposing tide, but Skorpa shook off the waves and plowed on and after 15 minutes or so I was out of the shallow water.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The sun was getting low, but the Cuttyhunk harbor looked full of masts and to enter it from the east I would have to navigate the notorious Canapitsit Channel. I decided to press on. The sun was just setting as I passed Nashawena. Quick's Hole is a good anchorage and very accessible, but I was only and hour or so away from Tarpaulin Cove so I decided to continue. The lighthouse on the bluff and the mouth of Tarpaulin Cove were welcome sites. I set the anchor in ten feet of water with the last bit of daylight.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcqKyYfkz0AJXtFPqsTg9HBOIDQwGPY_VinQlx3vJNUmgv4d823oMsxYLNKN8uHbQfhXamuRWcEBFyBQ_-I4aKYWDF2fXvFMlguj57vY9i4h9AjPI4pQQCWiMqBA-UxtNbkpx9Q3VwMFI/s1600/P8101862+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcqKyYfkz0AJXtFPqsTg9HBOIDQwGPY_VinQlx3vJNUmgv4d823oMsxYLNKN8uHbQfhXamuRWcEBFyBQ_-I4aKYWDF2fXvFMlguj57vY9i4h9AjPI4pQQCWiMqBA-UxtNbkpx9Q3VwMFI/s320/P8101862+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There were a few other boats at anchor in the cove including the 108 foot Top Sail Schooner Shenandoah. The next morning I sailed around her to get a closer look. She was built in Maine in 1964 along the lines of the 19th century Schooner, Joe Lane. She was built and to this day operates without auxiliary power. The Shenandoah was crewed by a couple of dozen middle school students who seemed to be having a whale of a time, hauling together on halyards, climbing out on the bowsprit, and jumping into the water from the side of the ship.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYnJTJr4kMSI1Ja4EpSIDss9mkWdAmWrhEfPKBuRSi8JyYP6tkJetikrdYp5DNJ_QUGDgW7ANsFmG2WsgJi_Cj8_gSYKoV0JMca4wxrSzffqOWSzPKSWKVyHVrL8DC3lmLwBu35ISduE/s1600/P8101846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYnJTJr4kMSI1Ja4EpSIDss9mkWdAmWrhEfPKBuRSi8JyYP6tkJetikrdYp5DNJ_QUGDgW7ANsFmG2WsgJi_Cj8_gSYKoV0JMca4wxrSzffqOWSzPKSWKVyHVrL8DC3lmLwBu35ISduE/s320/P8101846.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I anchored over closer to shore so I could step out into knee deep water and wade ashore. I walked a path up to the top of the bluff to get a closer look at the Tarpaulin Cove Lighthouse.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkv95fB0jExH0pm2D2V9OydtpCgXFYu-2owJ5ANO4Vgl-Yz6rCDc5jXy1zaAZHyllFPakIpGkB-IvTXRAUUp6jAoL6FEzMisOgeB4poCTgrEXPrec-srhqHJUIeEsfeZiaV5jMhLoQVv8/s1600/P8101858+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkv95fB0jExH0pm2D2V9OydtpCgXFYu-2owJ5ANO4Vgl-Yz6rCDc5jXy1zaAZHyllFPakIpGkB-IvTXRAUUp6jAoL6FEzMisOgeB4poCTgrEXPrec-srhqHJUIeEsfeZiaV5jMhLoQVv8/s320/P8101858+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
The original wooden structure was built on this site in 1759 by Zaccheus Lumbert the owner of the tavern at Tarpaulin Cove. This was the fourth lighthouse built in New England. The Boston Light 1716, Narragansett Bay 1740, Nantucket Light 1746, all marked the entrance to busy seaports. Tarpaulin Cove Light is unusually in that it is not on a headland or marking the entrance to a seaport. It was, however a convenient refuge for ships navigating the currents and reefs of Vineyard Sound on their way to and from Nantucket on what was one of the busiest waterways in the world.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU79r2Z5ixYKPmuJ9l8M4aOZZfNNC9WZv7t61-NHLCGdnl7PFFCOcqQvb_tgiaVJxryDZQPxsvnzUeFE3DGHzhI20f_RlzXioC0i9sxSJDvKNdcTW_uOYiYMwMdrdL08vtx6LrurgMAIg/s1600/P8101871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU79r2Z5ixYKPmuJ9l8M4aOZZfNNC9WZv7t61-NHLCGdnl7PFFCOcqQvb_tgiaVJxryDZQPxsvnzUeFE3DGHzhI20f_RlzXioC0i9sxSJDvKNdcTW_uOYiYMwMdrdL08vtx6LrurgMAIg/s320/P8101871.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I left Tarpaulin Cove in the afternoon with the ebbing tide of Vineyard Sound. I sailed about 6 nautical miles directly into the southwest breeze. I passed Pasque Island and entered Quick's Hole. There is a wide sandy beach on the east side of Nashawena. I anchored, and then pulled the stern into the shallows hopped out and went for a walk. The beach is wide and a mile or so long. On the far end I met one of the cows that graze the island.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEXNEOXHUvmPoIzU1aljZgO4RlpK6Op-pti1K_y80HGsfAmJI5Mv-BS1TykvzQ6riY18beiiSjJe2WuJHvY84tPjQooiOQqfHIgkybO6NqpMngIIfHlldMB6ZdErwOMPcdX9a9ctx32I/s1600/P8101875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEXNEOXHUvmPoIzU1aljZgO4RlpK6Op-pti1K_y80HGsfAmJI5Mv-BS1TykvzQ6riY18beiiSjJe2WuJHvY84tPjQooiOQqfHIgkybO6NqpMngIIfHlldMB6ZdErwOMPcdX9a9ctx32I/s320/P8101875.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Skorpa naturally lies at anchor facing into the wind. The waves were being refracted as they worked their way around the tip of Nashawena and into Quick's Hole. This resulted in the waves hitting Skorpa broadsides. This isn't really harmful and during the day you might hardly notice it, but down in my bunk it can make for a noisy, bouncy night for a light sleeper. I set out a second anchor to hold Skorpa's bow into the waves and had a quiet night below. Good thing as tomorrow I wanted to sail with the outgoing tide which would begin to ebb at 4:30am</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheO9_4urxFJtNue4eGLOXTH6svF3v1DOhhn3U32h_G2dtcHSd0Q1td80Xz6SaFEpor3hJBjqKKd1AaKC8V3QewHWFJqgdLXu4XAnYI9z9cuhQXCJeMIFz1ULv1eQr6NyRvBQE6UnA4ig4/s1600/P8111889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheO9_4urxFJtNue4eGLOXTH6svF3v1DOhhn3U32h_G2dtcHSd0Q1td80Xz6SaFEpor3hJBjqKKd1AaKC8V3QewHWFJqgdLXu4XAnYI9z9cuhQXCJeMIFz1ULv1eQr6NyRvBQE6UnA4ig4/s320/P8111889.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
There was not much wind, but it was behind me and the current was with me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1a38D4s4HTjylsnPsI1HDu5Ag-BacndY80ayqE_V_Dn64xRvDdTOKYYXpL_lcA5JkXW8oQ1dri2hTrAPNoi3RJUcm4XZgj6wnXAIPtl-xmypuI525LrHMqANRTxXdFwhpUjfrFpxzeg/s1600/P8111896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1a38D4s4HTjylsnPsI1HDu5Ag-BacndY80ayqE_V_Dn64xRvDdTOKYYXpL_lcA5JkXW8oQ1dri2hTrAPNoi3RJUcm4XZgj6wnXAIPtl-xmypuI525LrHMqANRTxXdFwhpUjfrFpxzeg/s320/P8111896.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Farewell to the Elizebeth Islands.</div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-30600290135938828142016-05-03T10:15:00.000-07:002017-09-10T18:31:55.790-07:00Virginia's Barrier Islands<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Virginia's Barrier Islands are owned by the Nature Conservancy, the State of Virginia, the Federal Government, and a portion of a couple of islands are privately owned. <a href="http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/virginia/index.htm?src=sea.AWP.prnone.crv1&kt=thenatureconservancyvirginia&gclid=CKiMsp3RtswCFQEmhgodshcLcA">The Nature Conservancy</a> manages their holdings under the <a href="http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/virginia/placesweprotect/virginia-coast-reserve.xml">Virginia Coast Reserve</a>. This area was incredibly rich in shellfish, fish, and waterfowl. For a variety of reasons primarily, overhunting, overfishing, and pollution, this bountiful system was nearly destroyed. This area was so incredibly prolific that people believed that no matter how wasteful, greedy or just plain thoughtless they were there was no limit to natures bounty and if there was it would be someone else's problem. There were hunting lodges, hotels, post offices, coast guard stations, and schools on these islands for about a 150 years until the mid nineteen hundreds. Storms, environmental degradation, and a rough and isolated life contributed to the slow abandonment of these settlements. In the late nineteen sixties the Nature Conservancy saw an opportunity to purchase these islands and try to nurture them back to health. They are now the largest stretch of undeveloped barrier islands along the United States East Coast. The map below depicts Virginia's Eastern Shore, the southern half of what is called the Delmarva Peninsula. The area was relatively isolated until the building of the <a href="http://www.cbbt.com/about-us/history/">Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel</a> in 1964. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAIeijliWZzc9NTdqs14T1ABwE35Xar6H63fKIylJ1RodNFaznJfHUkBwq3_9kQwgQ2gjsxip3Wbdq1i96-U9ca1nkAQ7MKKmaRkNjfyYUGP8_Sq87hlwZToGJQwMDxuxWRGYjJ0w8qKg/s1600/Virginia+Coast+Reserve.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAIeijliWZzc9NTdqs14T1ABwE35Xar6H63fKIylJ1RodNFaznJfHUkBwq3_9kQwgQ2gjsxip3Wbdq1i96-U9ca1nkAQ7MKKmaRkNjfyYUGP8_Sq87hlwZToGJQwMDxuxWRGYjJ0w8qKg/s640/Virginia+Coast+Reserve.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sally and I visited the area a few times starting around 2003. We fell in love with the undeveloped beauty of the area. We used our sailing kayaks and canoe to access the islands and marshes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufl0envOfbfaLkJ3q20dUYWFzfKK0TEah0_0bnxRDEKC_C7TvPQax0G9MaPghFcKPDJoEzDr5qY81w1JfS_LgD0Wl1EPWoYScTcm5HWvNDc4-iVTpFhn9BHy_3NS8_9axjEuwZJzX558/s1600/eelgrass+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufl0envOfbfaLkJ3q20dUYWFzfKK0TEah0_0bnxRDEKC_C7TvPQax0G9MaPghFcKPDJoEzDr5qY81w1JfS_LgD0Wl1EPWoYScTcm5HWvNDc4-iVTpFhn9BHy_3NS8_9axjEuwZJzX558/s320/eelgrass+007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We were captivated by the varied, abundant, and unusual birdlife.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEMOEAQGXCfTjZ6HTVXmVzHWqYGprZ2CGSWxTQL03zT_ZQErNGuZzado7FSjLEdy2uP7UolT0HvoHORPZss7bwGP1H5p8Rf0SqCbNtXnJgQeSTYB4P-XDom22j13X8UcgUGIsefYsJMw/s1600/IMG_1504-copy+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEMOEAQGXCfTjZ6HTVXmVzHWqYGprZ2CGSWxTQL03zT_ZQErNGuZzado7FSjLEdy2uP7UolT0HvoHORPZss7bwGP1H5p8Rf0SqCbNtXnJgQeSTYB4P-XDom22j13X8UcgUGIsefYsJMw/s320/IMG_1504-copy+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We volunteered with the Nature Conservancy to help gather eelgrass seed to be used in their eelgrass restoration program.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3spnpQcXrfKnyJLeh7bfRPOvhbmRO7U9wjm_DJ820HQfoZS_6RstH-79EUaCweg08QHe2ljnUFPrlygh0Tkg763J0cSALTUgLj_BZicU9IpXPNWUq4xgUF4-gC_mo4E_EXz6E_Doej8/s1600/eelgrass+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3spnpQcXrfKnyJLeh7bfRPOvhbmRO7U9wjm_DJ820HQfoZS_6RstH-79EUaCweg08QHe2ljnUFPrlygh0Tkg763J0cSALTUgLj_BZicU9IpXPNWUq4xgUF4-gC_mo4E_EXz6E_Doej8/s320/eelgrass+008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Eelgrass is a key species that helps convert an unstable sandy desert like seafloor into a stable tropical forest like seabed. Eelgrass was almost eliminated from the east coast by pollution and disease in the 1900's. Eelgrass grows in water from 2 to 6 feet in depth. It stabilizes the sea floor and becomes a nursery for a huge variety of marine life. Eelgrass however needs very clear water so that sunlight can penetrate and provide energy for its photosynthesis. Eelgrass is not very tolerant of the nutrient rich, sediment rich, turbid waters typical of our coastal areas. The Nature Conservancy is working with local farmers, industry, and municipalities to use stewardship and best practices as a way of limiting wasteful and damaging discharge into the wetlands. There is hopeful progress but it is slow. It is inherently difficult to put such an intricate web back together once it has been compromised.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Most of these islands are opened to non damaging day use but no camping is allowed. Back in 2007 I dreamed about having a sailboat that would allow sleeping onboard and had the ability to navigate the shallow waters of these islands.</div>
<br />
I am always thrilled crossing the <a href="http://www.cbbt.com/about-us/history/">Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel</a>. The bridge traverses the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay 17 miles, two tunnels, and a high rise span. It is almost like being at sea. The dramatic breaking waves where current, meets wind, meets shoals are just curiosities when viewed from a car on a bridge, but soon 6mm of plywood is all there will be between us and the sea. <br />
<br />
We found our way to the remote village of Oyster and under the curious gaze of some local watermen we started setting up Skorpa. And just as anyone with any sense was getting off the water we set sail, tacking out of the harbor on the ebb tide as the sun lowered into the western sky.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfQiooa3r_5okyo1aBFnq8QLy23iYTfQysIk-2LDL9T3ToDzYv5UDeLYUnoYfKpeeZ2smocAYhDA-0rUnARHsqBkbRxoKKAPVSsVfrkwUCqf9kbW3ij0tL11LeHh5dPlQwDp6OS_6R_HI/s1600/P4180733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfQiooa3r_5okyo1aBFnq8QLy23iYTfQysIk-2LDL9T3ToDzYv5UDeLYUnoYfKpeeZ2smocAYhDA-0rUnARHsqBkbRxoKKAPVSsVfrkwUCqf9kbW3ij0tL11LeHh5dPlQwDp6OS_6R_HI/s320/P4180733.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the one hand I do not want to minimize the very real risks we face. Skorpa is a small lightweight sailboat without any motor. These waters we are entering consist of large bays connected by marshes and inlets. There is a five foot tidal range so great areas of what looks like open water in a few hours is transformed into mud flats and oyster bars and the calm inlets become raging rivers roaring out to sea and six hours later roaring back in. There are few landmarks because one tidal marsh looks pretty much like the next one. Channel markers are far apart, sometimes missing, or sometimes the channel has moved leaving the marker on ground obviously not suited to navigation by boat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had in my notes the times of the tide changes, I had charts, my GPS and backup, spare batteries, marine radio, cell phones, spare clothes stored in dry bags, food and water. We had a superbly designed, well built boat and we knew how to make her sing. We knew when to move and when to lay low, and we knew that despite all that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6LifIA133gRu3VjQw2uGgtuU2J5m8ddpVY5Nir9kX7MCPOrhWpbXtuZOPGBNfcboKsGn8D_VuG0JElONXO0Ilbp76BHWZQ6Piu2SuYz11aGuZY-NLJh5qQDRSdxQ1j6IpzkAgiJmXc8M/s1600/P4180742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6LifIA133gRu3VjQw2uGgtuU2J5m8ddpVY5Nir9kX7MCPOrhWpbXtuZOPGBNfcboKsGn8D_VuG0JElONXO0Ilbp76BHWZQ6Piu2SuYz11aGuZY-NLJh5qQDRSdxQ1j6IpzkAgiJmXc8M/s320/P4180742.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A pair of raptors were taking up residence on an abandoned chimney near our first night anchorage at Cockle Point Creek. After checking out the raptors we decided to head up Cockle Point Creek into the Elkins and then the Eckichy Marshes. The tide was ebbing but we had a gentle NW breeze that might make it possible to retrace our steps if the channel faded. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcGbX7aRMndA2azuWdqj21Cy6zF-biNh-9_gJ6SmSDOPS_mFKPMwKWl-WXrk3lKMQ4NWglmNbTV_-Ys3vFiouTYhyphenhyphenxwAfjWmu_EFI1RBn0XvFK5iBtgKU7FK6oMSIQK7whaTnl4cV7NI/s1600/P4180750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcGbX7aRMndA2azuWdqj21Cy6zF-biNh-9_gJ6SmSDOPS_mFKPMwKWl-WXrk3lKMQ4NWglmNbTV_-Ys3vFiouTYhyphenhyphenxwAfjWmu_EFI1RBn0XvFK5iBtgKU7FK6oMSIQK7whaTnl4cV7NI/s320/P4180750.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We spotted egrets, oyster catchers, wimbrels, terns, and a bald eagle. We anchored and enjoyed watching the birds and spending some time in the cabin out of the sun. After lunch we decided to attempt to travel further north into the marsh hoping to reach the outlet at Gull Marsh Channel. On the chart the channel faded and there were no depths marked. As we proceeded the water gradually became more shallow. We had to raise the centerboard up and up, then the rudder had to be raised up and up. I knew we were close to where the water would begin to deepen. We came to a stop and I got out the binoculars and looked around. I could see we had missed the exit by a hundred yards or so. We would have to retrace our course and stay further west. In many sail boats turning around in such shallow water would be difficult or impossible, but all we did was push out on the mizzen until the stern swung around and then push out on the main until the bow came around to our new course. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We were feeling pretty pleased with ourselves until we reach the channel where the now flooding tide was pouring in. We needed to tack up this channel and for that we would need the centerboard down and it refused to budge. There happened to be a flock of laughing gulls and they were making an especially raucous chorus. The current was threatening to drive us onto a shoal so we dropped the anchor until we could persuade the undoubtedly sand clogged board to drop. Sally decide to name the area Laughing Gull Pass. Once we made it through the Pass it was running before the wind down the Machipongo to Hog Island.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had Pasta for dinner and a very quiet night at our anchorage between Hog and Rogue Islands. And no bugs. Light winds usually means lots of mosquitos. The next morning we anchored near the southwestern tip of Hog Island and went ashore for a walk and explore.</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJShzZ_o_acorKq04f5npkROfssicUgXx3P9LtYvaGNKc32RRDPLBjpeVK_QCKljlZnuaZ-aOWWVLMfYaoSYHmEGPW1ECk0O0-UZU863fzd4kwldTOIAV1VpdDHzo4pfnzlYRn_oJjgEE/s1600/P4190768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJShzZ_o_acorKq04f5npkROfssicUgXx3P9LtYvaGNKc32RRDPLBjpeVK_QCKljlZnuaZ-aOWWVLMfYaoSYHmEGPW1ECk0O0-UZU863fzd4kwldTOIAV1VpdDHzo4pfnzlYRn_oJjgEE/s320/P4190768.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Beach combers do not make it out here very often. Lots of nice shells, but we took only pictures. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyHP8O1hHQayEwdSjLssp8sxsG7XOqlR21c1Q80RNOSET8QplBlLWN8obaQ4SFTTi9H4uJD0x-Pdb5yux6FKN2bUpEnptnXgNuoTY1gBygIn-YUFPXHmS6ffsBwtPBFzCr7yz4Ugnbt4/s1600/P4190770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyHP8O1hHQayEwdSjLssp8sxsG7XOqlR21c1Q80RNOSET8QplBlLWN8obaQ4SFTTi9H4uJD0x-Pdb5yux6FKN2bUpEnptnXgNuoTY1gBygIn-YUFPXHmS6ffsBwtPBFzCr7yz4Ugnbt4/s320/P4190770.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6lbZTlk1XWKYgMKPw5DSXQ4oWsImO3E8FOo9dXchfIuv8a2XsifID34ijuNDixMMP6yL3mYF1xCTxyF7j8kaLQ89VCKM65gy3xar_jbfedH5Xztb0kS-QBejn87pS6fz-DHYW_1U_bE/s1600/P4190780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6lbZTlk1XWKYgMKPw5DSXQ4oWsImO3E8FOo9dXchfIuv8a2XsifID34ijuNDixMMP6yL3mYF1xCTxyF7j8kaLQ89VCKM65gy3xar_jbfedH5Xztb0kS-QBejn87pS6fz-DHYW_1U_bE/s320/P4190780.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc5e5IMm6ej5fiY-oxKJ6D1CXOey_pMWSIVFwjCL75nvSNelRKkdzCk_qw2WDyxpp2UfLv6pSKCODS6nFObtvsFi8Wd0lY99qB9pEkWFL_hyphenhyphenHLaT9ExVrzpauEA4L2oCE620xl2eDt_pM/s1600/P4190777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc5e5IMm6ej5fiY-oxKJ6D1CXOey_pMWSIVFwjCL75nvSNelRKkdzCk_qw2WDyxpp2UfLv6pSKCODS6nFObtvsFi8Wd0lY99qB9pEkWFL_hyphenhyphenHLaT9ExVrzpauEA4L2oCE620xl2eDt_pM/s320/P4190777.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSLxTHOiw-a5iF0rTvawJ5K0Lrhyphenhyphen9T1K4xLYH6bMcTxkmZPkKqhG2o0SuoXDZAlSSdjq6dtJpyZXbUOIOhaMg1QhnBLXEsVo3mUjEjNWBrDCmp-nNrAESMfav9S3TtVXGKMKovBzjYa8/s1600/P4190779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSLxTHOiw-a5iF0rTvawJ5K0Lrhyphenhyphen9T1K4xLYH6bMcTxkmZPkKqhG2o0SuoXDZAlSSdjq6dtJpyZXbUOIOhaMg1QhnBLXEsVo3mUjEjNWBrDCmp-nNrAESMfav9S3TtVXGKMKovBzjYa8/s320/P4190779.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hog Island belongs to the Nature Conservancy. They ask that you stay below the high tide mark to avoid disturbing nesting birds and to avoid damaging the dune grasses that are charged with the difficult job of stabilizing this pile of sand against the forces of wind and waves.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am not sure if the buoy moved to the beach or the beach moved to the buoy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/tfekMYriopY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tfekMYriopY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had lunch and a little rest out of the sun in the cabin while the tide bottomed out and began to flood. We decided to cross the Machipongo and head for Rowes Hole Channel then try to cross Big Easter Marsh while the tide was rising. We would look for an anchorage near Little Cobb Island. One concern we had was the breaking waves we could see well up the Machipongo in the vicinity of Rowes Hole Channel. The breaking waves were an indication of shallow water and if the wind should decrease any it could leave us at the mercy of the current. The crossing went well until we were on the far side when we had to use the paddle to help get us around some nasty looking waves breaking on a sandbar. After that it was pretty smooth sailing as we rode the flood tide around the west side of Big Easter Marsh. The water depth decrease to about a foot and we could see Eelgrass for the first time. Soon the water began to deepen as we reached Loon Channel which would lead us down to Little Cobb. And sure enough we could hear a couple of Loons and see them diving in the Channel.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We sailed slowly back and forth just north of Little Cobb while I sounded the bottom for adequate depth. The ideal anchorage is deep enough to leave plenty of water under your keel even at dead low tide, it should be out of the current and channel, it should be sheltered from wind and waves from the prevailing or predicted direction. And you should be able to sail out of your anchorage easily even if the wind should change direction. Most of the deep water around the Barrier Islands is in the inlets where it can be 50 or 60 feet deep. It is that deep because the current has scoured all the sand out. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So even though I was not really pleased with our anchorage I felt it was the best we were likely to find. We were out of the current with about 6 feet of water even though the tide was not yet high, but there was not much to block the wind and waves from the north and to our lee was Little Cobb Island.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I did not think much of it because the wind was light as I set the anchor. Half way through our dinner of rice and vegetable the wind suddenly picked up until the rigging was humming and the boat was rocking. I went forward and it was blowing over 20 knots. I could tell by the marks I have on my anchor line that we had forty feet of scope out. As I let out another forty feet the boat began to pick up speed. I ran the line around a cleat and began to bring the boat to a stop. The line went taut and put a good strain on the anchor but she held fast. That should hold up to a pretty stiff blow and it blew and the boat rocked for the first half of the night. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The wind eased by morning and I thought if we got an early start we could make it across South Bay during high water. Just as we were getting ready to leave the wind began to build again. I set two reefs but the wind kept building to over 20 knots from the North. We can sail the boat in that much wind but we have to be on our toes and things come at you pretty fast. I did not want to push things in such unfamiliar and isolated waters. So as much as I hated to, we decided to wait. We read and watched some dolphins and I could see that we were missing our chance to cross South Bay.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By 11am the wind was veering a little to the Northeast and I thought it was losing a little of its punch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Loon Channel narrows and swings between Cobb and Little Cobb before entering Sand Shoal Inlet. There had been a significant settlement on Cobb Island and the channel looked like it was strewn with old pilings. I did not fancy going that way driven by such a strong wind which meant we would have to sail around the western end of Little Cobb. The chart just showed this area as shallow, exposed at low tide, no depth indicated. We could not see any breaking waves so I thought we would be OK but I did not want to wait any longer as the tide was ebbing strongly. So off we flew.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/DMz8TldPAOk/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DMz8TldPAOk?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The general plan was to work our way southward toward Myrtle and Smith Islands while the north wind blew and then head north back to Oyster on Thursday when the winds were predicted to change to southerlies. Since our delayed departure caused us to miss the high tide we would travel west up Sand Shoal Inlet then south down the Mockhorn Channel. Not as interesting perhaps as the marshes of South Bay but c'est la vie.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Studying the charts I noticed an interesting twisty "Short Cut" that led into a shallow bay. We decided to check it out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/bfkjkGUyY2g/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bfkjkGUyY2g?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mockhorn Island lies between the barrier islands and the mainland. It appears large on the map but most of the island consists of Spartina marsh that is inundated at high tide. The high ground sustains some scrubby cedar trees and bay laurels. There are two lookout towers built in the 1940's that were intended to direct the fire of large guns located on the mainland. There is also an old home, barn, and outbuildings, in various states of decay. We sailed by all these. Our hope was to sail across Smith Island Bay, and up the Main Ship Shoal Channel, perhaps as far as Mink Island. When we rounded the southern tip of Mockhorn and headed up into the wind the large fetch and shallow water made for an uncomfortable chop. It was only 4pm and we had spent most of the morning waiting at anchor for the wind to ease, but still we did not feel like fighting our way upwind for an unknown anchorage. So we came about and slipped back into the lee of Mockhorn. Our only difficulty was sounding for sufficient water depth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Larimer A. Cushman who made his wealth in his family's baking industry purchased Mockhorn Island in the early 1900's. He improved on the existing hunting lodge and began to construct an impressive, largely self-sufficient estate. When I first examined the buildings I imagined that he must have been in the concrete business, the walls are all covered in reinforced concrete stucco, even the shingles are concrete.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-6sNPyB6M9A9-71MS7iTlsOvyC8RYcMAY8UudL90CyR7NYmln9FlQpRM0G3NBUl4zG4j2wgr2n3WrWOVLMwFg4SqMh3oF74J9Whw5YE7Nm1293PGGOQ9sic5J_DBFgXoOrYgqGRGcek/s1600/P4210836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-6sNPyB6M9A9-71MS7iTlsOvyC8RYcMAY8UudL90CyR7NYmln9FlQpRM0G3NBUl4zG4j2wgr2n3WrWOVLMwFg4SqMh3oF74J9Whw5YE7Nm1293PGGOQ9sic5J_DBFgXoOrYgqGRGcek/s320/P4210836.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sally is sitting on part of the concrete pier, behind her you can see part of the concrete walls that surround the high ground.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwCruNd6kcp-dw96M6Hehy0bAFOhkOvBUQXW_ToYZ3FoHc-39FQCiVbd84uUA1w8tVmCDisRPdNRpfHGlwvlek2pzMKTFxGG6on8VO5ieWPCaksv6vLq8k55sxy8m0V_4EtEir_dWRMQ/s1600/P4210846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwCruNd6kcp-dw96M6Hehy0bAFOhkOvBUQXW_ToYZ3FoHc-39FQCiVbd84uUA1w8tVmCDisRPdNRpfHGlwvlek2pzMKTFxGG6on8VO5ieWPCaksv6vLq8k55sxy8m0V_4EtEir_dWRMQ/s320/P4210846.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The house is hidden behind a jungle of vines and shrubs. The concrete capped chimneys look to be in excellent condition.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDsZRnY3W4bywoZa1RkyB9MMXDu_8rp5qmDL6sMYLdi9f_n7sQUh1EA3z9WS_arnsi_yuggxqxBwHqHoB0rYf80CGwHe_cyZXsY_NYLVfoxK-sPHnoouGkNn3HEZKSGHmZUecxmj1E64/s1600/P4210843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDsZRnY3W4bywoZa1RkyB9MMXDu_8rp5qmDL6sMYLdi9f_n7sQUh1EA3z9WS_arnsi_yuggxqxBwHqHoB0rYf80CGwHe_cyZXsY_NYLVfoxK-sPHnoouGkNn3HEZKSGHmZUecxmj1E64/s320/P4210843.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The barn was added by T.A. Jones who bought the island from the Katherine Cushman in 1948.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5p66l2NYAl0hfZkmonmnwgsqOIAgYNnW6WXsmAEusy43g6zwlqF2Npbn6OGNA_0BEjNZ7EFSe5mxti9TkTfg3Mag3W8X3t9l2YDh3j7p1BKnXRDAIwwZ4xhLu1niIPioOxv3EzpMW8cw/s1600/P4210864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5p66l2NYAl0hfZkmonmnwgsqOIAgYNnW6WXsmAEusy43g6zwlqF2Npbn6OGNA_0BEjNZ7EFSe5mxti9TkTfg3Mag3W8X3t9l2YDh3j7p1BKnXRDAIwwZ4xhLu1niIPioOxv3EzpMW8cw/s320/P4210864.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
T.A. Jones must have had an eye for detail and quality of construction. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWV-B6jq0-P8tfLLh0kqU4CvL7ELfH5Wt177QHgwsnEzOvCUIMfSDWmeKUmb2PyWAkG9cECcfFlXenXpEPRWzcE8hO4FT6Ju-pPG2NqmdWm9MedgnD-BtiTJYFiux-4L_VHxrDQPjuuOQ/s1600/P4210865.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWV-B6jq0-P8tfLLh0kqU4CvL7ELfH5Wt177QHgwsnEzOvCUIMfSDWmeKUmb2PyWAkG9cECcfFlXenXpEPRWzcE8hO4FT6Ju-pPG2NqmdWm9MedgnD-BtiTJYFiux-4L_VHxrDQPjuuOQ/s320/P4210865.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The roof and walls all appear very straight and true.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbAIF_COU2EqrK7VwNKAwW76fBQvHbCIuo_z2dpGZ_q4yFH9oCBJYXkPfpLxQM6PTQD3WREN4bQam6XjrWFhOmSOpAT3yuOnJzicREmT63kVtX6EAI5vhlrlC9NBgChyphenhyphenaCfr9N4OtBpPs/s1600/P4210862.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbAIF_COU2EqrK7VwNKAwW76fBQvHbCIuo_z2dpGZ_q4yFH9oCBJYXkPfpLxQM6PTQD3WREN4bQam6XjrWFhOmSOpAT3yuOnJzicREmT63kVtX6EAI5vhlrlC9NBgChyphenhyphenaCfr9N4OtBpPs/s320/P4210862.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Diagonal bracing let into the walls, simple but very well done.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7eslEJV9uN7qPSnUY4_cY49k_ettB4sLVMJXuEYJzQEWUNgXbzarT_0HsoxNEjALmUM2hcx7odY9sH6qKqisvn9vwdkE51V5aJkNEnFxDnalMV2bH36j3Vc9cQ6EuU5wUHoAf-lG-PU/s1600/P4210863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7eslEJV9uN7qPSnUY4_cY49k_ettB4sLVMJXuEYJzQEWUNgXbzarT_0HsoxNEjALmUM2hcx7odY9sH6qKqisvn9vwdkE51V5aJkNEnFxDnalMV2bH36j3Vc9cQ6EuU5wUHoAf-lG-PU/s320/P4210863.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The diagonal line is where a downspout was located. I suspect freshwater was in short supply making collecting rainwater a priority.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5p66l2NYAl0hfZkmonmnwgsqOIAgYNnW6WXsmAEusy43g6zwlqF2Npbn6OGNA_0BEjNZ7EFSe5mxti9TkTfg3Mag3W8X3t9l2YDh3j7p1BKnXRDAIwwZ4xhLu1niIPioOxv3EzpMW8cw/s1600/P4210864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5p66l2NYAl0hfZkmonmnwgsqOIAgYNnW6WXsmAEusy43g6zwlqF2Npbn6OGNA_0BEjNZ7EFSe5mxti9TkTfg3Mag3W8X3t9l2YDh3j7p1BKnXRDAIwwZ4xhLu1niIPioOxv3EzpMW8cw/s320/P4210864.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These shingles look similar to slate, but I think they are a manufactured concrete product.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGUXtidA61S7a4MgfSbik-87zX-YCAl7v5dA7Yri8DBdxOfKk1qJSxFJlmBGWfWxvwzp6JEjaUcAu4w-ooyzPF3LcV3W-2nSceB-FW2QNo5GT0oJsu7Lx-AS5AuCvkmbwDCnJIL2GKq5w/s1600/P4210866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGUXtidA61S7a4MgfSbik-87zX-YCAl7v5dA7Yri8DBdxOfKk1qJSxFJlmBGWfWxvwzp6JEjaUcAu4w-ooyzPF3LcV3W-2nSceB-FW2QNo5GT0oJsu7Lx-AS5AuCvkmbwDCnJIL2GKq5w/s320/P4210866.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All the shingles I could see on the barn and house looked in excellent condition. These are from a collapsed outbuilding.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUqDEZDEDS-D6m5PnJoyZHkisLHhkjt811BvuzBoFhp6DC7J0J9rbzjd7aceWWPM2ZHBhVwqeVKrApCdXkcFHZBHrMIo1JQ-GESBdiJDBzn1A0snq0kSKSkU4hyphenhyphenE1xwr2FP3eBLoso48/s1600/P4210869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUqDEZDEDS-D6m5PnJoyZHkisLHhkjt811BvuzBoFhp6DC7J0J9rbzjd7aceWWPM2ZHBhVwqeVKrApCdXkcFHZBHrMIo1JQ-GESBdiJDBzn1A0snq0kSKSkU4hyphenhyphenE1xwr2FP3eBLoso48/s320/P4210869.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is a view across one of the seawalls. The trees mark the high ground and the house site.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These islands and marshes are a paradise to all sorts of marine and bird life. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4fhbC9oQuCh9EO4Q8ckIhhJpKqVS1o72JcS2vu-VFqb5BGYGJ0v32v8eCiu8jhPkO0bfPlJpEu6FHKEWzu5_JZtc5GGm1xmyzHeDRnBHzurkP4lId_VWflh9QIvsgZStC1ydvi0dc98/s1600/P4210830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4fhbC9oQuCh9EO4Q8ckIhhJpKqVS1o72JcS2vu-VFqb5BGYGJ0v32v8eCiu8jhPkO0bfPlJpEu6FHKEWzu5_JZtc5GGm1xmyzHeDRnBHzurkP4lId_VWflh9QIvsgZStC1ydvi0dc98/s320/P4210830.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sipping my coffee in the predawn darkness it seemed a bit lonely and forbidding to me. Forbidding is not quite the feeling more like filled with a presence.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/FEGD-yYk1oI/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FEGD-yYk1oI?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-19974032039979949172016-01-22T14:37:00.001-08:002016-01-22T14:37:28.857-08:00Chapel Creek to Mouse HarborChapel Creek is a tributary of the Bay River. It is located in North Carolina and it is where Graham Byrnes has his boat shop. It is also the site of the BandB Mess-about. We arrived on Monday so we could get a few days sailing in before the action started on Friday. Tuesday morning things were not as quiet as we had anticipated. Below Alan is helping Jay and Carol with the launch of their just completed Core Sound 20 Mk3<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-pJ1nT_9uo05AnXkgoWO2XRGY4QwvkmHQJbAbzDX9GtATBQy27DwsXdiB-pL66wa8CqOCVGC1a2WRDrWP2qFvqZE0v1D4pNZr3IYwpDFLEV61fJ1CEAE-Uqnv8LBtdf5q0njA_kCaVBo/s1600/PA190531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-pJ1nT_9uo05AnXkgoWO2XRGY4QwvkmHQJbAbzDX9GtATBQy27DwsXdiB-pL66wa8CqOCVGC1a2WRDrWP2qFvqZE0v1D4pNZr3IYwpDFLEV61fJ1CEAE-Uqnv8LBtdf5q0njA_kCaVBo/s320/PA190531.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And our friend Brent was busy launching his recently completed Princess 26.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSZcfUxWiYmbpyyqWCngnNPjVUoDF33H7JWSnP6rbgtb_5yl0krYwMU_vvX-VWY7bMaj7MNtgNf9zxPOEcvN5LMUEA4XbTNDQGZ701d97T_ZfWpGcgUQuSaK2b-fcBy8iIdmk8uCdQPE/s1600/PA200536a+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSZcfUxWiYmbpyyqWCngnNPjVUoDF33H7JWSnP6rbgtb_5yl0krYwMU_vvX-VWY7bMaj7MNtgNf9zxPOEcvN5LMUEA4XbTNDQGZ701d97T_ZfWpGcgUQuSaK2b-fcBy8iIdmk8uCdQPE/s320/PA200536a+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Brent had agreed to join us for our trip down the Bay River and over to Mouse Harbor. The winds were light and variable as we headed down the River. The days are shorter this time of year and the late afternoon sun was heading for the horizon before we reached the mouth of the river. Rather then push on we decided to look for an anchorage in Bonner Bay.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxOUVintFOLfXEpM7Zc5wjuXYRTVNebzZQucV2xpsoepn4N8pBewusMczrCwRkL5efCs-Ekfc96drr4dKHJXGusf92xiutk-QimPglEV9MD72HJQaS_CwQ2rFgqpVJoRBzJciVnByasQ8/s1600/PA200544a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxOUVintFOLfXEpM7Zc5wjuXYRTVNebzZQucV2xpsoepn4N8pBewusMczrCwRkL5efCs-Ekfc96drr4dKHJXGusf92xiutk-QimPglEV9MD72HJQaS_CwQ2rFgqpVJoRBzJciVnByasQ8/s320/PA200544a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had a quiet evening in Bonner Bay and the next morning the winds remained light and from the North. Rather than strike out across the Bay River we decided to use the light air to explore some of the creeks that feed into Bonner Bay, specifically Dipping Vat Creek and Long Creek. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSXmEcPd4C0">Click for video of Sailing Bonner Bay</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obKeyaknSwI">Click for video Sailing along the Marsh </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The morning sun was bright and the skies clear. The wind was from the NNE around 5 knots.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQVt5gBf9LIn4VLQBwvJjqlVqn7XBBlIyr73z9HfLjP222sZ3pv7jAFXKiJpiUb7GwLDDmCoD11DGzWtI4HSKRM7lYJJkhQFV_l-yyn0CselnTitWXKdrIW6P5ZwuophpYDiTBXShN2PI/s1600/PA210551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQVt5gBf9LIn4VLQBwvJjqlVqn7XBBlIyr73z9HfLjP222sZ3pv7jAFXKiJpiUb7GwLDDmCoD11DGzWtI4HSKRM7lYJJkhQFV_l-yyn0CselnTitWXKdrIW6P5ZwuophpYDiTBXShN2PI/s320/PA210551.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Light winds are perfect for exploring marshes and creeks. Even though you are going slowly you feel like you are getting somewhere. I feel free to explore shallow areas and narrow creeks if I do not have to worry about wind and waves driving me onto a shoal or a lee shore.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7mpMR5HbxwH2BYLYyKaZaSYL3YG2mReWPhZIyl9NTSiAOnMy8q69h0PvLmiP4gL3xbpwQGOA3GcPc9wKKalyT0hR5FgvdhBw790G9DnDO9uvWJQ5-vs8JDxCU5faPHAQfegKFnDYcWA/s1600/PA210564a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7mpMR5HbxwH2BYLYyKaZaSYL3YG2mReWPhZIyl9NTSiAOnMy8q69h0PvLmiP4gL3xbpwQGOA3GcPc9wKKalyT0hR5FgvdhBw790G9DnDO9uvWJQ5-vs8JDxCU5faPHAQfegKFnDYcWA/s320/PA210564a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sometimes the wind got a little too light. Around 9:00am we headed north east across the Bay River toward Dump Creek Ditch. The wind faded completely and we rowed for awhile then it picked up and was blowing about 10 knots when we reached Dump Creek. It took a bit of poking about but we found the entrance to the Ditch. The areas was very shallow and the wind seemed to be picking up so we decided to head out to the Pamlico sound and then up to Mouse Harbor instead of cutting through Dump Creek Ditch to Jones Bay. The wind remained light but steady as we worked our way north around the Prohibited Zone. A circle 5 miles in diameter that surrounds a wreck that the navy uses for target practice. The circle is located on the western edge of the Pamlico Sound and you have to go in pretty close to land or out into the middle of the sound to avoid cutting through it. The wind veered slowly to the East and then the South East.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOwXzX68NxM">Click here for a video of sailing into Mouse Harbor</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sally and I sailed along the southern and western edges of Mouse Harbor scoping out possible anchorages and looking for some dry sandy ground. We went as far as the entrance to Mouse Harbor Ditch. We noted several nice places to anchor but no dry ground suitable for a shore excursion. We could see that Brent was settling in near Island Creeks so we sailed back to him and came up along side. Brent had some fenders out and welcomed us aboard. We brought some snacks over and shared them and Brent opened some of his home brew. We chatted about the days sail and made plans for the morrow. Sally and I had decided we would head back to Chapel Creek in the morning, a day earlier than planned so we would have plenty of time to visit with Peter before the business of the Messabout began. As the sun was setting we said goodnight to Brent and drifted off a little ways and dropped anchor just as the marsh angels were awakening.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As you probably know I do not carry a motor on Skorpa. On occasions I take a little ribbing from sailors equipped with engines, though often there is a hint of respect in the teasing. Brent and I were getting our boats ready to sail before sunrise. The swamp angels were still about so Sally had elected to stay in. The wind was about as close to dead calm as you can get on the water. Brent offered to give us a tow until the wind picked up. I declined figuring we would get to Chapel Creek one way or the other and if it took us an extra day it would not really matter. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As Brent slowly motored off I decided it would be a good time to try out my Yulogh. I had recently added an oarlock to the transom. I placed one of my 10.5 foot oars in the lock and began making like a gondolier. The oar is positioned straight off the stern of the boat. You swing the oar back and forth while holding the blade at an angle reversing the angle each time you come to the end of a sweep. You can not develop anything like the power that you can develop in the standard rowing position, but we were gliding along quietly. At first I had the blade angle reversed causing us to move slowly backward. Once I got that straightened out it was nearly idyllic except for the mosquitos stealthily drawing blood from my ankles. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4nWmyizPIg">Click here for a video of Sailing Down Mouse Harbor Ditch</a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As we sailed back across Mouse Harbor and entered Pamlico Sound the Cherry Point Naval Airstation began a dramatic aerial display directly overhead. Two jets were flying in a roughly 10 mile circle. Just as they passed over us at an altitude of perhaps 500 feet they engaged their afterburners and went into a steep climb. At the top of the climb they banked steeply right. One plane followed about a mile behind the other. They repeated the circuit over and over perhaps a dozen times. At first entertaining but then a little annoying. Approach bank left, full throttle, climb, bank right. We could see the glow from the afterburners and vapor flickering off the wing tips and leading edge during hard maneuvers. After awhile they wandered off and we settled down to a quiet sail with a light breeze from the north.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLv7scuagB8iO3R9G0kJuWitce96kaRoEvbF1DteP5PNxfXTdPvIfsNEXjk-acyAor0kVB0sMv5HRqXxyZET6WL7_cocouP0noRIze6zWxMoQXmVnNuueL0ImNss55ELe6FlwjiEGtFd4/s1600/PA220589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLv7scuagB8iO3R9G0kJuWitce96kaRoEvbF1DteP5PNxfXTdPvIfsNEXjk-acyAor0kVB0sMv5HRqXxyZET6WL7_cocouP0noRIze6zWxMoQXmVnNuueL0ImNss55ELe6FlwjiEGtFd4/s320/PA220589.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The wind veered from North to East varying from around 5 knots up to 10 knots. We had a relaxing sail down the sound. As we approached Jones Bay we decided at the last minute to head up the Bay and use Ditch Creek to cut across to the Bay River at the mouth of Gale Creek.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzLKi3Q8XwOHKVH4Ft5WTZEH2DWMUaUYqx-WXSqjA1mIQxBPuY8wpUnALXWIKMPvZQKwgMj0tYxqKEev9fLBzrrmtf9XF8Q-flo8Mg7MUaLPu2JBFJ-QfsEZOni20HphS9ItjZPIVZ9cw/s1600/PA220592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzLKi3Q8XwOHKVH4Ft5WTZEH2DWMUaUYqx-WXSqjA1mIQxBPuY8wpUnALXWIKMPvZQKwgMj0tYxqKEev9fLBzrrmtf9XF8Q-flo8Mg7MUaLPu2JBFJ-QfsEZOni20HphS9ItjZPIVZ9cw/s320/PA220592.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here we are heading up Jones Bay with the wind behind us coming from the ESE. Ditch Creek Canal runs South West so we would be on a broad reach down the narrow ditch. Perfect except just as we got to Ditch Creek the wind suddenly veered even further all the way to South. Now the wind would be almost on our nose as we headed down the ditch. We did not want to go all the way back out to the Sound and up the mouth of the Bay River so we decided to go for it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sally took the tiller and I took the paddle. The wind was 30 or so degrees off of dead ahead so by paddling and pinching as hard as we could we squeaked through. The wind remained steady from the South to South southwest and we sailed up to the dock at Chapel Creek at 5pm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWwvvd5KHVJ-LOADCXy6k7X7K7lTAoSpYAHGQlahb4HqjEbj6e3E9lFY-0_eE-aj2_hMmK_o8Hak0FqYoiDRgFLwnSBHN7cvuGtcd9n27M8YshO56xaSnugWAgyb0y5QciNzEYGCTiYj8/s1600/PA230596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWwvvd5KHVJ-LOADCXy6k7X7K7lTAoSpYAHGQlahb4HqjEbj6e3E9lFY-0_eE-aj2_hMmK_o8Hak0FqYoiDRgFLwnSBHN7cvuGtcd9n27M8YshO56xaSnugWAgyb0y5QciNzEYGCTiYj8/s320/PA230596.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had a wonderful visit with Peter. Here I am helping him raise the mast on his recently launched Princess 28R, Petrel. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWSqlJJvOLeForacbjA6slol3sArZI0qwpFkV-OsgQjby06mJVqmzDZrUE6eZbludl6Pun1RsU5W0kSBAwb6M_8u1uDuTLkMP0BNoXtF5w4dgjyWB0NtOX75AyFLJsrKPcMzeWgWuo4E/s1600/PA240622a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWSqlJJvOLeForacbjA6slol3sArZI0qwpFkV-OsgQjby06mJVqmzDZrUE6eZbludl6Pun1RsU5W0kSBAwb6M_8u1uDuTLkMP0BNoXtF5w4dgjyWB0NtOX75AyFLJsrKPcMzeWgWuo4E/s320/PA240622a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Above are Jason and his son. They are two of the many passengers we took for a short sail on Saturday. It was a lovely time of sharing the joy of boats with others.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-44085276911008630992015-09-30T08:12:00.001-07:002015-10-06T17:53:00.448-07:00Cuttyhunk<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Elizabeth Islands lie between Martha's Vineyard and the southern coast of Massachusetts. Cuttyhunk is the last in this chain of islands that stretch south and west from the base of Cape Cod. Cuttyhunk is derived from Pocutohhunkunnoh a Wampanoag
word meaning Land's End or Point of Departure.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf99kBCM1f8m-FXtz7IPKUF6RjeJDHB9KlfjTvTrF_tQ0jTPsDlXzDiwSXnHVWpWWSOY1Ansx8xmSu_OHDF823h_EyQ9Ha9W0He0XEKc_5qXDobVi_LKvkpctti764Lrxv4-nXaED343M/s1600/GE+Elizabeth+Isles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf99kBCM1f8m-FXtz7IPKUF6RjeJDHB9KlfjTvTrF_tQ0jTPsDlXzDiwSXnHVWpWWSOY1Ansx8xmSu_OHDF823h_EyQ9Ha9W0He0XEKc_5qXDobVi_LKvkpctti764Lrxv4-nXaED343M/s320/GE+Elizabeth+Isles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
Below you can see a close up of Cuttyhunk. The Pond where we anchored is in the northern part of the island. You can see the narrow breachway that we tacked up straight into the wind to reach our anchorage. In the Southwestern corner of the island you can see West End Pond where the Gosnold monument is located. The land to the East is Nashawena across the infamous Canapitsit Channel.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYMt83czobABcvWVqbhehdJG3ezBer1hl-cDK0WyOH_Lq8nhaY4igXgjj-hYsVqrrcJsBY-PRdKvmEB6WZT_ZShP3xW3Bh6bjkZkUdIZXn04OfcHro-Op6z-Q3g7bQAcd3cJ7ohHfEe8/s1600/GE+Cuttyhunk+Island.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYMt83czobABcvWVqbhehdJG3ezBer1hl-cDK0WyOH_Lq8nhaY4igXgjj-hYsVqrrcJsBY-PRdKvmEB6WZT_ZShP3xW3Bh6bjkZkUdIZXn04OfcHro-Op6z-Q3g7bQAcd3cJ7ohHfEe8/s320/GE+Cuttyhunk+Island.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Native Americans moved into this area around 10,000 years ago following the retreat of the glaciers from the last ice age. Speculation is that the Wampanoag Indians inhabited Pocutohhunkunnoh during the summer months, hunting, fishing and gathering shellfish, and then moved to a more sheltered location on the mainland for the winter. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In 1602 a group of European explorers arrived on board the Bark Concord led by the Englishman Bartholomew Gosnold. There were 32 men in the expedition 20 of whom were settlers and were planning to establish a permanent settlement. The rest would return to England and arrange for supplies to be sent out to the colonists.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1p7VUmK9jsT35_mjbV0i2JC8r2sRPacA-0JnSuojd8e_wcjK3U0ouQvfumTclibgIKIzSsELPQd6TX6M4-wtXrgqtTBDEQ6nqw61Z5xVMT2pQ6lwgggtU8YhJTRV9xYaMhDZYpQEQ0E/s1600/Gosnold+meeting+with+Wampanaug+Indians.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1p7VUmK9jsT35_mjbV0i2JC8r2sRPacA-0JnSuojd8e_wcjK3U0ouQvfumTclibgIKIzSsELPQd6TX6M4-wtXrgqtTBDEQ6nqw61Z5xVMT2pQ6lwgggtU8YhJTRV9xYaMhDZYpQEQ0E/s320/Gosnold+meeting+with+Wampanaug+Indians.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Painting William Allen Wall courtesy of the New Bedford Whaling Museum</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Gosnold met peacefully with the natives near present day New Bedford. The Europeans nevertheless felt threatened by the natives who greatly outnumbered them. Gosnold and the settlers selected a small island in the middle of a little pond on Cuttyhunk as the site of their encampment and proceeded to build a fort.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH70_xaaAhblfCV8gOtmnR8C1igNQqekX8u8wG3STAJxTaXoIl-0e1M9AgolQc_qEY_0NV3hRiumIib2REm5I2wkfgzbuVZJL5OiUtuGp6_v7b6kSZ2vCxmQCPkBt6WhYtLuW4-sjjwVQ/s1600/Cuttyhunk+fort+Albert+Bierstadt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH70_xaaAhblfCV8gOtmnR8C1igNQqekX8u8wG3STAJxTaXoIl-0e1M9AgolQc_qEY_0NV3hRiumIib2REm5I2wkfgzbuVZJL5OiUtuGp6_v7b6kSZ2vCxmQCPkBt6WhYtLuW4-sjjwVQ/s320/Cuttyhunk+fort+Albert+Bierstadt.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Painting by Albert Bierstadt courtesy of the New Bedford Whaling Museum</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When not working on the fort the men gathered cedar logs and sassafras roots to sell back in England.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The twenty men who were suppose to stay got cold feet and when after six weeks the Concord was setting sail they asked to be taken back to England. Gosnold failed to establish a permanent settlement and Sir Walter Raleigh confiscated all of his sassafras, but Gosnold interacted peacefully with the natives and returned all of his expedition safely home. I was also planning an expedition to Cuttyhunk hoping for a pleasant visit and a safe return home.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The day of our departure Monday September 14, 2015. The weather forecast includes a small craft warning, winds West Southwest 15-20 knots with gusts to 25 knots, seas 4-6 feet. I thought about calling David and suggesting that we postpone our departure until Tuesday, but in the end I decided we would double reef and poke our noses outside the Harbor of Refuge and then make a final decision. Sally had decided to sit this trip out. My cousin David was interested in going so we teamed up for this trip to Cuttyhunk. Our plan was to leave Monday with food and water for 4 days. We would head for Cuttyhunk and then over to Menemsha on Martha's Vineyard and be back to Point Judith on Thursday.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq-l-_s9G_ribBQ3JB1QNLISNBzTZajx4bDSDgmck9BunxxONwj3oT18yhDaipwGbkOLcVwx75Puo1jK-faPZ22Y4Xf7XPfQNUGnOOMw6kspMaDbGDayEgDUxZbH2yYTzffKIvRhgScK0/s1600/IMG_7303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq-l-_s9G_ribBQ3JB1QNLISNBzTZajx4bDSDgmck9BunxxONwj3oT18yhDaipwGbkOLcVwx75Puo1jK-faPZ22Y4Xf7XPfQNUGnOOMw6kspMaDbGDayEgDUxZbH2yYTzffKIvRhgScK0/s320/IMG_7303.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We loaded up our gear. Raised sail and left Great Island about 9:30am.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy3jrQB2lZdGnonicmR1BE1-UC0l8NrJnK3isd0FEt0__XU-prkLLHoCvbOIZGpSEg5ClnIrdhXAai7wpuU9TG6_8PG-2plUcBuOCs1afmd5PKJxU1pmQ77dRtM98R_n761LbaNTIo4qc/s1600/IMG_7305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy3jrQB2lZdGnonicmR1BE1-UC0l8NrJnK3isd0FEt0__XU-prkLLHoCvbOIZGpSEg5ClnIrdhXAai7wpuU9TG6_8PG-2plUcBuOCs1afmd5PKJxU1pmQ77dRtM98R_n761LbaNTIo4qc/s320/IMG_7305.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Conditions were so mild that I was feeling foolish for considering postponing the trip. I was even wondering if we should take a reef out of the sail.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOIzryjRatrvTYhlEE3XT5qL2O_gm3jixIVM4S8eowdClIwYFP_2ZJ19GYQsA3N2ECq2PUErSDXZkQtK5-I2bkAHDNynWlTZ44D5UCorixhv42tXTxDSfPjVKlUT76GUZnXgcR-NvSRw/s1600/IMG_7307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOIzryjRatrvTYhlEE3XT5qL2O_gm3jixIVM4S8eowdClIwYFP_2ZJ19GYQsA3N2ECq2PUErSDXZkQtK5-I2bkAHDNynWlTZ44D5UCorixhv42tXTxDSfPjVKlUT76GUZnXgcR-NvSRw/s320/IMG_7307.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sally and Heidi drove down to the breachway to send us off. It was a beautiful day with the wind from the West around 10 knots. Temperature around 70 F. We were not in a race and I wanted this first trip of David's on Skorpa to be a safe one, so I decided to stick with the double reefs expecting that the wind and waves would build as we left the shelter of Point Judith Pond.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyInC0oY8-C1ypN31fuwXMBUW0LZLFW7LXiQIBZM8UCWsKtazGhxPsh9byY0OmYk2q1A2Rsuq5WTSu-ogHZlTNkOUszlsE5chhtrcgAZni_psvFiAGxZAvw_BRiV60YIwIbTeonv9fmxI/s1600/IMG_7311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyInC0oY8-C1ypN31fuwXMBUW0LZLFW7LXiQIBZM8UCWsKtazGhxPsh9byY0OmYk2q1A2Rsuq5WTSu-ogHZlTNkOUszlsE5chhtrcgAZni_psvFiAGxZAvw_BRiV60YIwIbTeonv9fmxI/s320/IMG_7311.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Click here for a video <a href="https://youtu.be/1kysW7Wxp3U">Sailing Off Point Judith in Route to Cuttyhunk</a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As we were sailing off Narragansett the wind and waves continued to build. Wind 15 knots and the waves 2-3 feet. With two reefs we were making 5-6 knots. The forecast was still for small craft warnings and winds 15-20 knots with gusts to 25 knots. David was new to sailing Skorpa and getting used to the rigging, the tiller, and how a cat-ketch differs from a sloop takes some time. So we kept our reefs in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHgPrmpgiJz2CeLH_FA6vWRtbWxeAyKvbGAnkzXrAJxBtWQFtxWubBkSp-GMzSaeoVNnlaL11kOvJ3nopAHzohA60p1z95c5e2ynA1WXJMaKa-pYTwiqUggIlWXga78VUeQ-uGjM968DU/s1600/P9140350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHgPrmpgiJz2CeLH_FA6vWRtbWxeAyKvbGAnkzXrAJxBtWQFtxWubBkSp-GMzSaeoVNnlaL11kOvJ3nopAHzohA60p1z95c5e2ynA1WXJMaKa-pYTwiqUggIlWXga78VUeQ-uGjM968DU/s320/P9140350.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I just happened to be shooting some video when a dolphin swam across the screen. What an exciting wonderful few minutes we had. The video is pretty good but it doesn't let you see into the water very well. If you look closely you can see shapes beneath the water. I could see them quite well and it was incredible watching them swimming below and just in front of the bow and weaving back and forth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2FVfibjJjc">Click here for video of Dolphins sailing with Skorpa</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is about 30 miles in a straight line from Point Judith to Cuttyhunk. Following the straight line we would spend a lot of time in the shipping channels and there would be no shelter available along the way. We chose to hug the coast a little adding maybe five miles to our route but giving us the option to anchor for lunch or for the night if we felt that was prudent. Third Beach near the mouth of the Sakonnet River is a nice anchorage sheltered from the south and west. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As we approached the southern end of Aquidneck Island and the Sakonnet River we decided to head towards Easton Beach(Second Beach). This seemed closer than going around Sachuest and up to Third Beach. I was still thinking about anchoring while we ate lunch and discussed our options. As we drew into the lee of The Breakers one of the mansions along Newport's Cliff Walk, David suggested that we heave to and eat lunch as we drifted instead of proceeding the rest of the way to Easton Beach and taking the time to anchor. Earlier in the summer David had come on a brief sail with me in Skorpa and he had been impressed with how easy it was to heave to. Loosen the mainsheet and snug up the mizzen sheet. The boat lies quietly pointed into the wind and drifting back slowly. It takes about 10 seconds. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We discussed the situation. We had about 18 miles to the outer harbor at Cuttyhunk. If everything were to go right we could be there around 4pm. I was not sure if we would be able to sail through the narrow breachway into the Pond. We may have to lower sails and row. There were no other options, either stay here at Easton Beach or perhaps move over to Third Beach or make it all the way to Cuttyhunk. The wind had built a little and we felt it had neared its peak. The waves would probably continue to build somewhat. Just before lunch the boat had been sailing faster 7-8 knots with the occasional surf in the lower teens. The boat felt under control so we decided to go for it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qX3pncpwTw">Click here for video of Sailing from Sakonnet to Cuttyhunk</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Looking back at the videos the waves appear about one half the size they appeared that day from the boat. The Block Island buoy reported wave heights of 6.5 feet Monday afternoon. So far I have not been able to access wave height data from The Buzzards Bay tower which was about two miles off our route. I do not have any video of the largest waves nor of the boat at its highest speed which maxed at 14.4 knots while we were surfing on a wave. Not bad for carrying two reefs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeEhgjv7kUQ">Click here for video of Sailing into Cuttyhunk Pond</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj4YHQEIdVvUOqJk8_GOHdoImD_s1fU3-a-6gq2yCWze2hdp8XB7kT4hRukQ7N0eue2BbT4AmnHi3zfsW6LdcXFglmC4KjgxypwRdl4blSo02z7XUXHHgUZvkInKedD_wi8cJVLQfIDZc/s1600/DSC01503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj4YHQEIdVvUOqJk8_GOHdoImD_s1fU3-a-6gq2yCWze2hdp8XB7kT4hRukQ7N0eue2BbT4AmnHi3zfsW6LdcXFglmC4KjgxypwRdl4blSo02z7XUXHHgUZvkInKedD_wi8cJVLQfIDZc/s320/DSC01503.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
As we sailed by the stern of one of the yachts in the basin, someone came out and gave us a round of applause. I am sure not many boats sail through that channel directly into the wind, and I would not recommend it during the summer season or when there is any amount of boat traffic.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KXee-AYpMvkEmtFYUkxh2joyp45Zp4jlJrknNT544HDX1mdwFgpOITtSO_3Cgn7iL0Hm6TFc40vfmeGEFeCjxVACThx4STwlkyTQeD0U8fdaNGpBXqZyAUIIUmw1DhB82FXOBnThDFI/s1600/DSC01505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KXee-AYpMvkEmtFYUkxh2joyp45Zp4jlJrknNT544HDX1mdwFgpOITtSO_3Cgn7iL0Hm6TFc40vfmeGEFeCjxVACThx4STwlkyTQeD0U8fdaNGpBXqZyAUIIUmw1DhB82FXOBnThDFI/s320/DSC01505.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cuttyhunk Pond was quiet and well protected from the wind and waves. We enjoyed the security, relief and sense of accomplishment for awhile as evening settled in. I put some brown rice on the pressure cooker and David cut up onion, carrots and squash. Preparing a meal from scratch takes some extra effort and time but we both enjoy the ritual. When the ritual takes place in a quiet anchorage after a challenging passage with the sun setting, and the crescent moon and stars coming out it doesn't get much better.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That night the stars were visible bright and clear through the companionway and as Skorpa swung gently at her anchor it felt like we were motionless and the heavens rotated smoothly around us paused and then rotated steadily back.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We were both up early to enjoy the predawn stars of Orion and the planets Venus and Jupiter. The wind was blowing gently from the South Southwest. After breakfast we sailed a half mile across the Pond. We scanned the far shore looking for a place to beach the boat so we could go ashore to explore. We did not find any place suitable so we sailed up to the dinghy dock and I went in search of the harbor master. I learned from him that the grocery store was closed because the owners had gone for the day to the mainland on business. He graciously told me that since there were so few boats in the harbor it would be OK for me to leave my boat at the dinghy dock for a few hours while we explored the island.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCL4JOeVMaJWCi9XSVYRHrlQTx1zKu3ph-VEfa3DpzY0dDWmhLz_cEnI9jDhWiy892k_2ZFj077cGKL5Aa6Bd3rpEtPQEOB3zB3jY9kIlwJRnMkUw6DuOkHZBupTPJOT55U2op5VWtbtw/s1600/P9150377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCL4JOeVMaJWCi9XSVYRHrlQTx1zKu3ph-VEfa3DpzY0dDWmhLz_cEnI9jDhWiy892k_2ZFj077cGKL5Aa6Bd3rpEtPQEOB3zB3jY9kIlwJRnMkUw6DuOkHZBupTPJOT55U2op5VWtbtw/s320/P9150377.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITCqpEMyOYhet-G4c991LY9faQFBNndtyAt5OLV4atJ_FD7E3vocxOGEj6Qfk1IWNgi6hTXKOAdShADJ_WRIFOId7hkE2Ivn1PVegRgxUt5TlDOQhjriVbmAZ23iedlZXgxVuoBKMyIE/s1600/DSC01508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITCqpEMyOYhet-G4c991LY9faQFBNndtyAt5OLV4atJ_FD7E3vocxOGEj6Qfk1IWNgi6hTXKOAdShADJ_WRIFOId7hkE2Ivn1PVegRgxUt5TlDOQhjriVbmAZ23iedlZXgxVuoBKMyIE/s320/DSC01508.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While I was making sure Skorpa was secure at the dock David acquired a map of the island and we were off.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJN0pxusBaNFLPZc_kG4T5AudY0AaOfZnusj0FrtQwoJnUzs-8R8AHx42k4jr4OaZBZ-UvN5S38O7dP2ENodKLw84kxxPE6fspt1I_BrjRBRBoEcUWE8MtGXdw5GSU3CPx4azz46xgCFM/s1600/P9150379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJN0pxusBaNFLPZc_kG4T5AudY0AaOfZnusj0FrtQwoJnUzs-8R8AHx42k4jr4OaZBZ-UvN5S38O7dP2ENodKLw84kxxPE6fspt1I_BrjRBRBoEcUWE8MtGXdw5GSU3CPx4azz46xgCFM/s320/P9150379.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The buildings in the Village of Cuttyhunk are very well maintained. There was very little pedestrian or vehicular traffic and the vehicle of choice was the electric golf cart.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8nzr6155rNiHZylAiJAm88VDiRt5nueCVsosAeeW6mhJ9_5U2qzvtgQ2WL2j2VNqVqfMMXM1oKlDSSq45JUfdzB70S3yQxjoQRWWymtHt9Z_5n1Grjrln7Ml0O9MoFGQCGfJOVIrD9KI/s1600/P9150384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8nzr6155rNiHZylAiJAm88VDiRt5nueCVsosAeeW6mhJ9_5U2qzvtgQ2WL2j2VNqVqfMMXM1oKlDSSq45JUfdzB70S3yQxjoQRWWymtHt9Z_5n1Grjrln7Ml0O9MoFGQCGfJOVIrD9KI/s320/P9150384.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Above is the school house and nearby is the church.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9oxW89DpFlQVD-NaalPhZWGnqdEhjRi1QZmHnJNWQ7kY9QJQ_xP4TRHVwj0LJHyo2bCG-x4R9O7lJQbPs3W-yhHICX7ByHXw_iLbbQv-DEk-QFEgAScqpp3H744XX518O9oSjirZ-W0c/s1600/P9150383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9oxW89DpFlQVD-NaalPhZWGnqdEhjRi1QZmHnJNWQ7kY9QJQ_xP4TRHVwj0LJHyo2bCG-x4R9O7lJQbPs3W-yhHICX7ByHXw_iLbbQv-DEk-QFEgAScqpp3H744XX518O9oSjirZ-W0c/s320/P9150383.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DmA0XsIOn_zwsddH8ilqxReVtkO7pvtaG_de32UUwkdx7cnV9G4DubHZXl7X3AMp4bs2grV600gw1pDtD8y6rGQ-Om1KBsYjgp6O37OYJSalAGMajoiku2gqxveME9N5h5aimZ3wukk/s1600/P9150385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DmA0XsIOn_zwsddH8ilqxReVtkO7pvtaG_de32UUwkdx7cnV9G4DubHZXl7X3AMp4bs2grV600gw1pDtD8y6rGQ-Om1KBsYjgp6O37OYJSalAGMajoiku2gqxveME9N5h5aimZ3wukk/s320/P9150385.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXG72_PBo2tcztRgv4bOB3Ps_w6hByn5khrjvYf7LqOyOIgudCCT1pFNqXivIt3WdwECebkShvnlG4C4aJcCfGxRbf4-JKbg1NiG8qjTMeT2_Zt7x88JD9lNzr4SjFq3qO_QTKFfJ0dUA/s1600/P9150387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXG72_PBo2tcztRgv4bOB3Ps_w6hByn5khrjvYf7LqOyOIgudCCT1pFNqXivIt3WdwECebkShvnlG4C4aJcCfGxRbf4-JKbg1NiG8qjTMeT2_Zt7x88JD9lNzr4SjFq3qO_QTKFfJ0dUA/s320/P9150387.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As you progress up this strange stone wall lined avenue that was constructed for a never to be built mansion the views become more and more spectacular.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the far side of Cuttyhunk Pond the peninsula referred to as Copicut Neck is visible and beyond in the distance is Penikese Island.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWVFgQp005ngUd3M66eriX4iG9mRCWEMTOpw9ahWFN9oghbQ6Fp0Ha3sjyViLxB3FQA0OdRySrhBcxC8Ub9alsq62K8obhv45aZrpmq1Zc5-4-rmAStwlBQmEx4rdisVBOQrZQn2ugVc/s1600/P9150388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWVFgQp005ngUd3M66eriX4iG9mRCWEMTOpw9ahWFN9oghbQ6Fp0Ha3sjyViLxB3FQA0OdRySrhBcxC8Ub9alsq62K8obhv45aZrpmq1Zc5-4-rmAStwlBQmEx4rdisVBOQrZQn2ugVc/s320/P9150388.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just above the church steeple is Canapitsit, Wampanoag for the southern arm together with Copicut they form the narrow arms that surround Cuttyhunk Pond. In the distance is the next island in the chain the somewhat larger Nashawena.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tkwUAOhXYkVZZft5zQMjlUlLja_Bhjy0zP5Tt1fLcMA2OUH9Ox0FZWFW0WqfKj8Hhyphenhyphenno3k0bT3yxMHufRfXp_aCcQL6q-EnC9qZiC_5XBnG00SINx0p5VWFzXpkWIDHLvgkVPr0wg4Y/s1600/DSC01521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tkwUAOhXYkVZZft5zQMjlUlLja_Bhjy0zP5Tt1fLcMA2OUH9Ox0FZWFW0WqfKj8Hhyphenhyphenno3k0bT3yxMHufRfXp_aCcQL6q-EnC9qZiC_5XBnG00SINx0p5VWFzXpkWIDHLvgkVPr0wg4Y/s320/DSC01521.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
When you get to the end of the Avenue you are at the top of Lookout Hill. There is not much here just the remains of some observation bunkers used by the military to watch for German U-boats during World War II and some incredible views of The Elizabeth Islands, Martha's Vineyard, and the southern coast of Massachusetts and if you look carefully on a clear day a bit of the southern coast of Rhode Island.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLlUE4izxQqLxrzhl9Rdb9stsEWm-Pt9HIJL7UGdZrcDswDCIKXxcxyNL2pDWRKtVWWlEe9YcimlU5j-DIM0T1tOxBk1aRb_7vqef7eGMUIah9C1kNYyxYQAJtjcTalztutPVr4bVFXYM/s1600/P9150391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLlUE4izxQqLxrzhl9Rdb9stsEWm-Pt9HIJL7UGdZrcDswDCIKXxcxyNL2pDWRKtVWWlEe9YcimlU5j-DIM0T1tOxBk1aRb_7vqef7eGMUIah9C1kNYyxYQAJtjcTalztutPVr4bVFXYM/s320/P9150391.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Looking towards the west end of the island you can see West End Pond and this strange tower. Our map had it labeled as the Gosnold Monument. This got our curiousity up and we decided to extend our shore leave on Cuttyhunk. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59Qdl2jKC_WHY_IPkQVf0i50ZADtQ4X-X9tzZLGDnL_vVYUqUw5t0y0Lu3KgLlfvmWEA_2VkUvCgMXIkSQG2F3nXwLyztExYNeN2hIFLgr82QIl8Wg7yyrNBtKUGEkXyFb0GngDB4BUA/s1600/DSC01526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59Qdl2jKC_WHY_IPkQVf0i50ZADtQ4X-X9tzZLGDnL_vVYUqUw5t0y0Lu3KgLlfvmWEA_2VkUvCgMXIkSQG2F3nXwLyztExYNeN2hIFLgr82QIl8Wg7yyrNBtKUGEkXyFb0GngDB4BUA/s320/DSC01526.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There is a rustic path along the southern edge of the island that leads to the Gosnold Monument and the lighthouse ruins. Along the way we snacked on some apples from an old apple tree long left to its own devises.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEVVHd8DiYG6GUEI_elF0NTmYJ8r2ls3Y5cOjao2BPRnMrlZFwE6lxi1LqVd7EgoWimfp37QIXsP_AnJab8SgUKl3lxXJo5w2dQl8tYaCnB-kn_sqzdYw9qPXx9G5oEI-iiIDjXic5k-8/s1600/P9150396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEVVHd8DiYG6GUEI_elF0NTmYJ8r2ls3Y5cOjao2BPRnMrlZFwE6lxi1LqVd7EgoWimfp37QIXsP_AnJab8SgUKl3lxXJo5w2dQl8tYaCnB-kn_sqzdYw9qPXx9G5oEI-iiIDjXic5k-8/s320/P9150396.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
David consults the map as our rustic path narrows a bit. West End Pond and the tower are in the distance.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGoqvO-9nC9d1H6IEu6xh8pZ7mLhgQtOgXqiEWPOHMjV_RIfPeDFFUTKQPFX2wlNH3vydyNdCGoi5fD1qJRjBkpmcEJ46FCucDGftkkUQ7oOU8aKdgML_GOVwQnZOJ83IeFFLFckOeU0/s1600/P9150397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGoqvO-9nC9d1H6IEu6xh8pZ7mLhgQtOgXqiEWPOHMjV_RIfPeDFFUTKQPFX2wlNH3vydyNdCGoi5fD1qJRjBkpmcEJ46FCucDGftkkUQ7oOU8aKdgML_GOVwQnZOJ83IeFFLFckOeU0/s320/P9150397.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Much of the island is undeveloped, but it is very different from the tree covered island the Wampanaog knew.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6ziaarwRXBAl7sEAr3p-FmQan31Zd7boiKA9Cscl-6Sv0x0B_jNfJQc_Z_APBLDVsRXVqS20m4rcvqvCVvqvO4Cv5Al76VkpgB6er5GhrBp_LTew_MVW9EofyUD14FoxnRwFzvYqNCM/s1600/DSC01534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6ziaarwRXBAl7sEAr3p-FmQan31Zd7boiKA9Cscl-6Sv0x0B_jNfJQc_Z_APBLDVsRXVqS20m4rcvqvCVvqvO4Cv5Al76VkpgB6er5GhrBp_LTew_MVW9EofyUD14FoxnRwFzvYqNCM/s320/DSC01534.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7VtkEu8NlDmh8z7ZS80TG3U3c68lz23lev1bAp1V7DTVEYrZ6urT0mu9YEyYgiaeQvHUGr2Vc5LnqrVZZk4MGrOrROinNrW_55jGPX9rfRbVGb_PAGllcgGHcEuNWOJsm2gnC49r_g8/s1600/DSC01537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7VtkEu8NlDmh8z7ZS80TG3U3c68lz23lev1bAp1V7DTVEYrZ6urT0mu9YEyYgiaeQvHUGr2Vc5LnqrVZZk4MGrOrROinNrW_55jGPX9rfRbVGb_PAGllcgGHcEuNWOJsm2gnC49r_g8/s320/DSC01537.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It seemed a little strange to us that the Gosnold Monument is located on this tiny island in the middle of a little pond on the far side of Cuttyhunk Island but that is where in 1602 Gosnold and his men decided to build their encampment and where in 1902 the historical society decided to build their monument.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxMDhDlBoA78qTRn35aNZaSbSpVBHr04j9cD8SBL7DFg3xTtk6T51l2BRSryurNX-gVfE3VYmPG96dLxyF_ETlIBsFN8htVGnN9BcxIwEj53Md3ZpdUlKDPQgw9oTqiUI1AG5nz-iDMk/s1600/P9150405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxMDhDlBoA78qTRn35aNZaSbSpVBHr04j9cD8SBL7DFg3xTtk6T51l2BRSryurNX-gVfE3VYmPG96dLxyF_ETlIBsFN8htVGnN9BcxIwEj53Md3ZpdUlKDPQgw9oTqiUI1AG5nz-iDMk/s320/P9150405.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This cut connects West End Pond to Buzzard's Bay. The current was ebbing at a few knots and the water was 4 or 5 feet deep so we went no further. The ruins of the light house and the keepers house are in the background.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyc6U1ziRlfHc2n1s0YJIqcTc8RBZHyaJjtlvc4_D3_GQn7xUm1rrR5MFocTozI4rTkgHnpcONs224Qlmrp-E9CZ2MvTTUlCdJr4TnXEl1ACldXZ_3PdBeYJwr6zv23Rt8lw8SRTsMcQg/s1600/P9150406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyc6U1ziRlfHc2n1s0YJIqcTc8RBZHyaJjtlvc4_D3_GQn7xUm1rrR5MFocTozI4rTkgHnpcONs224Qlmrp-E9CZ2MvTTUlCdJr4TnXEl1ACldXZ_3PdBeYJwr6zv23Rt8lw8SRTsMcQg/s320/P9150406.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The winds were forecast to be light and primarily from the southwest. For this reason we had decided not to continue on to Menemsha as this would put us further from home. I still hoped to get an afternoon sail in. The plan was to sail around Nashawena. When we got back to the village we ate a quick lunch at the dock and raised sail. Below we are heading out the breachway with the wind behind us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-f-2xKRc3W_JVaRDpBwiF5CRP1b8fiYi3cu4kXcbkeJ2yWvjAvC4GbEjWLLWe6LFJ6nQVOpjE0tTbT84iSZtYqtuGs9Bxvh52TjW0NPtE6oZAC1JICP3JCo-efo8aFxx876E6DHwVgqM/s1600/P9150410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-f-2xKRc3W_JVaRDpBwiF5CRP1b8fiYi3cu4kXcbkeJ2yWvjAvC4GbEjWLLWe6LFJ6nQVOpjE0tTbT84iSZtYqtuGs9Bxvh52TjW0NPtE6oZAC1JICP3JCo-efo8aFxx876E6DHwVgqM/s320/P9150410.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is the southern side of Nashawena. There are farm buildings and cattle grazing on the island.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1L4GQZPWjREW60qYmgWBm2EcUcpoCUm6LC4FxMbHcOiVs-PPyahyphenhyphen0iht3Cbo8r7E2tH1LqNplQEZRlkIOG6S7frmS4PTBnegpFj-7rJycRtMQU-t1vqP2XAsesb0r1LPNib3VppE2-M/s1600/P9150412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1L4GQZPWjREW60qYmgWBm2EcUcpoCUm6LC4FxMbHcOiVs-PPyahyphenhyphen0iht3Cbo8r7E2tH1LqNplQEZRlkIOG6S7frmS4PTBnegpFj-7rJycRtMQU-t1vqP2XAsesb0r1LPNib3VppE2-M/s320/P9150412.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here we are finishing our circumnavigation. We are approaching Cuttyhunk with Nashawena in the background. You may not see them very well in the photo, but there are large boulders strewn randomly across the islands. They are called glacier erratics and they were shipped here from New Hampshire by glaciers 10,000-15,000 years ago. In fact the second largest erractic in Massachusetts is located on Penikese.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifThR20kWwn-tAdMOTMvhBzsmEN1_nwZC83eczrwf_UXqmE1PuSSnNCk3kdpr64SEuYuZH_bEXkaVGH8BPmlmhUbnXyLtYDAy3eH7ofGu4W8u4YLpNWE7a_Pe55GMJ4Crdg0jYhS4OZkk/s1600/P9150414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifThR20kWwn-tAdMOTMvhBzsmEN1_nwZC83eczrwf_UXqmE1PuSSnNCk3kdpr64SEuYuZH_bEXkaVGH8BPmlmhUbnXyLtYDAy3eH7ofGu4W8u4YLpNWE7a_Pe55GMJ4Crdg0jYhS4OZkk/s320/P9150414.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We tacked back into the Pond with the wind again on our nose, but only at about 10 knots. We anchored in almost the same spot as last night and again watched the crescent moon follow the sun into the western horizon. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMO8aQ7hQEs08TLcTiFNZ1l2yipdgeM89CFlp1pM_CzrE3HZxM2kIReNvlOsKk-JUfRslJBtni0jfxx7vGmo7Gim1deP5QoJxv0bKhdWdxJqVWW_NuHTRenHX0_orKwlqhin1C5CuJ5u8/s1600/DSC01547+E1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMO8aQ7hQEs08TLcTiFNZ1l2yipdgeM89CFlp1pM_CzrE3HZxM2kIReNvlOsKk-JUfRslJBtni0jfxx7vGmo7Gim1deP5QoJxv0bKhdWdxJqVWW_NuHTRenHX0_orKwlqhin1C5CuJ5u8/s320/DSC01547+E1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Facing East about 9 hours later Venus is leading the sun up across the horizon. The wind has shifted to the North East at about 5 knots.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDWRGCcNQgsjja9mUtxm_mEaaBr3DQBYn7Lvqr6ZfNNLi0WKuGPkAaY7YV2KDjVlpHKxf2IMbAOUL3-q3KxPKFtFMf8gLPoip9HYht-6mFqtHrptFER5kVmsaerlb2jMV3T_JJD9oKzUw/s1600/P9160418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDWRGCcNQgsjja9mUtxm_mEaaBr3DQBYn7Lvqr6ZfNNLi0WKuGPkAaY7YV2KDjVlpHKxf2IMbAOUL3-q3KxPKFtFMf8gLPoip9HYht-6mFqtHrptFER5kVmsaerlb2jMV3T_JJD9oKzUw/s320/P9160418.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We leave our quiet anchorage early to take advantage of the fair winds while they last. Forecast is for northeast wind 5 knots becoming south</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh32ylk2z2x4dXsh0XtDm08QIFRJGprhBEiVRgXG11mizxQAb3-urrnBDtWjmqPvLcuqNUQ9AUjfbY4KREwwyZdRswuyoL5xjl4CVNeTudaagM0BKKjvDn1e4AC5RTY2LEn08rXPkg3RR4/s1600/P9160422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh32ylk2z2x4dXsh0XtDm08QIFRJGprhBEiVRgXG11mizxQAb3-urrnBDtWjmqPvLcuqNUQ9AUjfbY4KREwwyZdRswuyoL5xjl4CVNeTudaagM0BKKjvDn1e4AC5RTY2LEn08rXPkg3RR4/s320/P9160422.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Farewell to the Coast Guard house that watches over Cuttyhunk Pond.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheOjmtJGUfij4_rG7GBy23JE3z7Upa_uRKTTLsIjZUamY1trqMZCHvX0VR1diOW7cr0f7PXvrihPxyoraNSK8vbgJKiRwQLuJkzbxhvlNPcebEDbf1JPOKU3uIdKdK1z1UQFQR65z63JY/s1600/P9160424E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheOjmtJGUfij4_rG7GBy23JE3z7Upa_uRKTTLsIjZUamY1trqMZCHvX0VR1diOW7cr0f7PXvrihPxyoraNSK8vbgJKiRwQLuJkzbxhvlNPcebEDbf1JPOKU3uIdKdK1z1UQFQR65z63JY/s320/P9160424E.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
David is giving a tip of his hat to Cuttyhunk and the Elizabeth Isles as we begin the homeward leg of our trip. Nashawena is on the left and Cuttyhunk on the right in the background.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeK5Dr2uJnrsX1wRBI108XR0SX68SqJelAfEjtBAofHg409HhguuhGscJpDvfjKYJhf-rlqSW9FOkH_eN7j6MobTYRfn0E1ppxodp6epVKzzPz0KiyI2-mujjCvWg08cZ_BL4KdZc_Usg/s1600/P9160433E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeK5Dr2uJnrsX1wRBI108XR0SX68SqJelAfEjtBAofHg409HhguuhGscJpDvfjKYJhf-rlqSW9FOkH_eN7j6MobTYRfn0E1ppxodp6epVKzzPz0KiyI2-mujjCvWg08cZ_BL4KdZc_Usg/s320/P9160433E.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had some wonderful sailing for a few hours moderate winds and calm seas. Whenever I hear a NOAA forecast that goes Northeast winds 5 knots becoming South I know it can be a frustrating sailing day. When exactly will the northeast winds become southerly and how long, minutes or hours will this transition take? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZeoAH2LWfUE4G3HwWXU0U57HkvEkaR-iI6E9JcHwLsOfTX97BlAronmygxU7_kCX-vHwYifKm_ofHnRrRGUEG6uNHdrqc431XOihiyYUg59tK16xUTMULGWSUeBywrzEE_IVyhx3nG3c/s1600/DSC01550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZeoAH2LWfUE4G3HwWXU0U57HkvEkaR-iI6E9JcHwLsOfTX97BlAronmygxU7_kCX-vHwYifKm_ofHnRrRGUEG6uNHdrqc431XOihiyYUg59tK16xUTMULGWSUeBywrzEE_IVyhx3nG3c/s320/DSC01550.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Around 10am our lovely north winds began to fade. We had made some progress but we had a long way to go to get to the Sakonnet River. Skorpa as you probably know carries auxiliary propulsion in the form of two oars. We could read or doze and just wait for the wind to change direction and pick back up or. David suggested we row for awhile and that we did. We were able to move the boat at about 2.5 knots. We kept that up for about 2 hours when the wind slowly began to fill in from the south southwest. Nothing like a spell at the oars to make you appreciate the magic of sailing by the wind. With the light winds and calm seas we felt comfortable sailing in close to West Island which is a big rock that lies off Sakonnet Point.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9TzIL5w_ugbmESRieAxWEEEnyCb0U5jFTMVvS8OxJEO_cSNvrbSlZ8IR9yMGlmfnszl1tcHyk89H19t9Ud66ykYDk092_dKVzyCyAiljJgh8RXaNybZxH2Qv7pW2WZwYAA9ouThSXhuA/s1600/P9160446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9TzIL5w_ugbmESRieAxWEEEnyCb0U5jFTMVvS8OxJEO_cSNvrbSlZ8IR9yMGlmfnszl1tcHyk89H19t9Ud66ykYDk092_dKVzyCyAiljJgh8RXaNybZxH2Qv7pW2WZwYAA9ouThSXhuA/s320/P9160446.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Followed by Sakonnet Light.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8h8_kMhzmJxeOdD3VvsAkrTrp2o1wRksxTvh8TD2P4QEacPTay9BDhi26oH2UYk5MZhwdLE6TZqwFbPKGWEhvFUr_2FwBLLHjcC0R2joacsUtYoXH0uoYneo6WGF7K5KbevyBy8voHE/s1600/P9160449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8h8_kMhzmJxeOdD3VvsAkrTrp2o1wRksxTvh8TD2P4QEacPTay9BDhi26oH2UYk5MZhwdLE6TZqwFbPKGWEhvFUr_2FwBLLHjcC0R2joacsUtYoXH0uoYneo6WGF7K5KbevyBy8voHE/s320/P9160449.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We sailed into Sakonnet Harbor just to look it over. It is a snug little place but filled with boats at moorings. We headed off across the Sakonnet to Third Beach. There were a number of moored boats here as well but a lot more room. We sailed up past all the boats as I wanted to get as close as possible to the beach with the idea of going ashore for a walk. We were right on the edge of the Sachuest Wildlife Refuge. I kept bringing us closer and closer in, scanning the chart for rocks and watching the water when suddenly we seemed to be right on a huge rock. Only there should have been lots of scrapping and grinding noises but there were none. I called out to David ROCKS and I turned the boat out towards deeper water. He replied they are fish. That did not make any sense to me. It looked like a huge rock just a few inches beneath the surface covered with lumps of seaweed or oysters or something. David declared again that they were fish, thousands of fish. I brought the boat up into the wind and looked closely myself sure enough fish. No wonder they were not marked on the chart, no wonder there was no scraping sounds as we ran up on them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqGWyjlxUevXjNTAArdtuJcTP1lZ9X1MPdRmIoLJt8wK9p9tSRRdbreVC7JxQ93TDp8JUcE7sGanLOmVkLAUak24ReqyydFqlr0CTqRi6JHCjQeWPobxeG6HfJsuBm-93RMvBIGbDj_I/s1600/P9160479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqGWyjlxUevXjNTAArdtuJcTP1lZ9X1MPdRmIoLJt8wK9p9tSRRdbreVC7JxQ93TDp8JUcE7sGanLOmVkLAUak24ReqyydFqlr0CTqRi6JHCjQeWPobxeG6HfJsuBm-93RMvBIGbDj_I/s320/P9160479.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They were about four inches long, dark green on the top and silver on the their sides. Every once in awhile there would be an explosion and a couple of larger fish about 18 inches would jump clear of the water as the smaller fish scattered everywhere. We later learned these were Menhaden the locals call them Pogies and they often form large schools. They are filter feeders and they are found in the bays this time of year and blue fish enjoy feasting on them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmsith_aP6MpQhvqDnHlTbdYSiJs7SJWbtzE7eUtGDfp3q30gWvHMsBdhYX6T0PLSkDxUE1cTo_1Sud6mP77trN3SuEFlJwuj_vYLu5yVBjt0P3N4eBHuadO0mPEMVd0NjGr66R0uSPxA/s1600/P9160477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmsith_aP6MpQhvqDnHlTbdYSiJs7SJWbtzE7eUtGDfp3q30gWvHMsBdhYX6T0PLSkDxUE1cTo_1Sud6mP77trN3SuEFlJwuj_vYLu5yVBjt0P3N4eBHuadO0mPEMVd0NjGr66R0uSPxA/s320/P9160477.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We anchored and just sat back to watch the show. We were in the center of the action. Blue fish were tearing into the schools of menhaden and sea gulls were picking up the scraps. Several people came by on paddle boards and in kayaks and skiffs. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgYG-XXFiDPinw8NbAHjoRfZ7pA2A5QZL1pgAb1pPBh59CKTKg8voHkZLD6c-xYW3nU0LZfNlid7JuHBvRt5R0v7utn8zb1YH8-Tawxgm_gLGIQCbSE0nNWJ-kz6I1v7HnDVKAVLqbGU/s1600/P9160475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgYG-XXFiDPinw8NbAHjoRfZ7pA2A5QZL1pgAb1pPBh59CKTKg8voHkZLD6c-xYW3nU0LZfNlid7JuHBvRt5R0v7utn8zb1YH8-Tawxgm_gLGIQCbSE0nNWJ-kz6I1v7HnDVKAVLqbGU/s320/P9160475.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One fella rowed by in a skiff. I asked him what he had caught and he told me a 29 inch blue fish. Another man rowed over because he recognized the cat ketch rig and asked if this was a Core Sound 20. I told him he was close this was the CS 20's bigger brother an EC22 all by the same designer, Graham Byrnes. We chatted for a while then he rowed off. It was a little like being in a park. Stuff was happening. A young boy was screaming and yelling and running up and down the beach. "There they are! There they are!" He would go out into the water up to his neck, casting and screaming. Later he put away his rod and got a net. He was so excited he did not know what to do. I leaned over the side of the boat and holding my camera a few inches under water I took the photo above. A few times we spotted something floating in the water like a softball size clump of seaweed. The Pogies normally swimming side by side would steer clear of the obstruction leaving a perfectly circular opening maybe beachball size that remained entirely free of fish. I thought about slipping into the water with my mask to swim with the school. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh99ffYOwd260vjS3ye_obDsSd9AS5sEdH5OL4JAWPJsMGh3uLe7bmQaaJnIt6FDWAfnOH5oTGcJxfVunQiSmj65wWDPx2pOIgrvdY2Ok1O4zwWsBBCSFXJSfDwFjrCVwPezK3oqt6DhGA/s1600/DSC01556E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh99ffYOwd260vjS3ye_obDsSd9AS5sEdH5OL4JAWPJsMGh3uLe7bmQaaJnIt6FDWAfnOH5oTGcJxfVunQiSmj65wWDPx2pOIgrvdY2Ok1O4zwWsBBCSFXJSfDwFjrCVwPezK3oqt6DhGA/s320/DSC01556E.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Finally as the light faded the commotion on land and on the sea died down. We gave up on the idea of going ashore and settled down to fixing our dinner. Pasta e fagioli, pasta with beans. I thought about how excited, how unrestrained the young boy on the beach had been in his response to this dramatic display of nature's fecundity. My response tempered by age was more muted. It was no doubt a moving experience and a privilege to be witness to it. As large as the school of fish appeared in reality this is a tiny remnant of the schools that used to gather on these shores a few hundred or even one hundred years ago, before they were decimated by habitat destruction, pollution, and overfishing. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuRX6N-XW4quqNmcXxDaLgqY_vQfcZSAI5RK7kvGgTJXLSX3_B1MDjULRcVyemo2nsXgfrP9Ni-oE7QB82kJg9Uhhh4INcS3iEnKun6qflg_R0lV4uz0cxy9EfrrcRvQ62tZoA9qPSe_I/s1600/P9160482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuRX6N-XW4quqNmcXxDaLgqY_vQfcZSAI5RK7kvGgTJXLSX3_B1MDjULRcVyemo2nsXgfrP9Ni-oE7QB82kJg9Uhhh4INcS3iEnKun6qflg_R0lV4uz0cxy9EfrrcRvQ62tZoA9qPSe_I/s320/P9160482.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had a relaxed morning. The forecast was for southwest winds 10-15 knots and we were only about 14 nautical miles from home. We would have a good deal of tacking to work our way up wind but with moderate winds and seas that should not be a problem. It would take some time especially since we had the currents running against us. This is a view of the mooring field at Third Beach. In the foreground is a Sea Sprite. The owner had recognized us as a Core Sound boat and had rowed over to chat with us the evening before.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthJ35Vo4SSWwGIKMz932C52MG7gGjGVoIJkk-4r-E2zL7s-qy1htYhrOaJ5EdiIcn9AuL48iPrpP8YrvSfO14s3_sOEESYQ2NFJ6oTySyVzTeMl2NeRHWh66f4Kt8ktvxjawJHdAvEKw/s1600/DSC01566E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthJ35Vo4SSWwGIKMz932C52MG7gGjGVoIJkk-4r-E2zL7s-qy1htYhrOaJ5EdiIcn9AuL48iPrpP8YrvSfO14s3_sOEESYQ2NFJ6oTySyVzTeMl2NeRHWh66f4Kt8ktvxjawJHdAvEKw/s320/DSC01566E.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looking over a trimaran on our way out of Third Beach.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAumWbaJs6hQmzrXMDj1QQ_WbQUfiuF_MS8NjwtgpD6fk6SKM0o0a9Oz5Q1o4ikYFqswmA7MsmT9mWynEZpIiOxSg8Cu0ZvXzj7B0ymbdDJ8WiwffeqcwPatEuUC77ckTD7oohaVykzs/s1600/DSC01568E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAumWbaJs6hQmzrXMDj1QQ_WbQUfiuF_MS8NjwtgpD6fk6SKM0o0a9Oz5Q1o4ikYFqswmA7MsmT9mWynEZpIiOxSg8Cu0ZvXzj7B0ymbdDJ8WiwffeqcwPatEuUC77ckTD7oohaVykzs/s320/DSC01568E.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tacking back out in front of Sachuest Point.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0O0aY_wo2u2ZHrGZuG2uxnRRXXOtEi-xr3ATvdEB8pqkb6zJV0W5mDwPkQFbsttXt6aZL7Osith5lHymIybfR6xL6EWZeK_5ZnUfMIZ1MTCWWuqF8H7qyY_LTABxZUKcac7kFZt-oww/s1600/P9170500E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0O0aY_wo2u2ZHrGZuG2uxnRRXXOtEi-xr3ATvdEB8pqkb6zJV0W5mDwPkQFbsttXt6aZL7Osith5lHymIybfR6xL6EWZeK_5ZnUfMIZ1MTCWWuqF8H7qyY_LTABxZUKcac7kFZt-oww/s320/P9170500E.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As we sailed across the mouth of Narragansett Bay I heard the Navy announce on 16 that they were conducting exercises within the torpedo exclusion zone. I was pretty sure but not certain that we were outside the zone. You can see the Naval vessel in the photo. I had the feeling there were some naval vessels we could not see operating in the area.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHeDK2P_T5X4mSyoVr3bwJiVr7rC3j63Ro1ssMIQRYXJO_9Jyk_U4Bv31a7Jo87Z8mzij2VeJtTwOkYRLoisHaMu2zxrTdIGpPF-b7tiIAPG1HOHBsqOX7mSuGWY1SelfOsoE6b4jbtWk/s1600/DSC01577E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHeDK2P_T5X4mSyoVr3bwJiVr7rC3j63Ro1ssMIQRYXJO_9Jyk_U4Bv31a7Jo87Z8mzij2VeJtTwOkYRLoisHaMu2zxrTdIGpPF-b7tiIAPG1HOHBsqOX7mSuGWY1SelfOsoE6b4jbtWk/s320/DSC01577E.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
David takes us in as we sail before the wind into Point Judith Pond. Thanks David for all you did to help make a successful trip and thanks as well to Heidi and Sally our shore crew. Well done everyone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI4HVrrhZnop3rGrnGG5VA7TXVuNS5mluBkV6s4ReA0SmjWN_UpULO8UB5x60XQoDmkieF1WY6dXFW2vXRmbHyqVAZHUSsTqF580xvjS0kFJb55z6w9_GxxXu-5T8ObU3KR6SLDm5HtwA/s1600/P9170512E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI4HVrrhZnop3rGrnGG5VA7TXVuNS5mluBkV6s4ReA0SmjWN_UpULO8UB5x60XQoDmkieF1WY6dXFW2vXRmbHyqVAZHUSsTqF580xvjS0kFJb55z6w9_GxxXu-5T8ObU3KR6SLDm5HtwA/s320/P9170512E.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-54015836859599788232015-01-12T17:38:00.001-08:002015-05-03T16:23:07.786-07:00March to the Everglades<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXEAXnCISZjN1LM6MeuoS9_ILMkeFmhsHAm78PsB1rQOp00Q-pZgANVkN-s3TTVfjnaf4OTRCMV7jVnUP1kUOZ2u0bykL6m45sbheJwg-ua0dy2lv91zj2PGkJPc-rE0cCM2TMFWJHe0/s1600/P1110036a+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXEAXnCISZjN1LM6MeuoS9_ILMkeFmhsHAm78PsB1rQOp00Q-pZgANVkN-s3TTVfjnaf4OTRCMV7jVnUP1kUOZ2u0bykL6m45sbheJwg-ua0dy2lv91zj2PGkJPc-rE0cCM2TMFWJHe0/s1600/P1110036a+(2).jpg" height="320" width="208" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
This book is taking a little effort to wade through, but it is full of fascinating information about the history of the Glades. Early parts of the book are beautifully poetic. I can remember Marjory describes the Pileated Woodpecker as having a head like a battle ax. If you have ever seen a Pileated up close you know how apt her description is. The later half of the book is a bit drawn out. The poetry disappears as if she tires of writing. Still a very good read and she covers a lot of ground. Well researched history and geology.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Sally and I are planning a trip to the Everglades in March. Plan is to sail Skorpa from Chokoloskee south perhaps as far as Ponce de Leon Bay, and then return of course. Maybe five days on the water. We hope to explore around the islands and work our way up Lostmans River, and Rogers River. This is our first trip to this area so we will have to take it one step at a time and stay flexible. We have scheduled our trip to coincide with the Everglades Challenge. This is a 300 mile small boat adventure race that runs from Tampa to Key Largo. <a href="http://watertribe.org/">http://watertribe.org/</a> I have followed this race online for many years and have considered entering the race. Our boat Skorpa is an EC22. A boat Graham designed with this race in mind. Graham sailed his EC 22 Southern Skimmer to first place in Class 4 in 2007, 2008, and 2009. In fact I think he won his division every time he entered.<br />
<br />
I have often debated with myself whether it is better to explore the area at my own pace taking the time to explore the byways and the wildlife or to enter the Challenge. Though many Watertribers cruise the course, you can take up to six days to finish the challenge, if you want to be competitive you have to be willing to sail day and night in all kinds of weather. Sailing some of the same water at the same time as the racers will give lots of opportunities for what ifs.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4pr_pVxbHbxOq4OJNbZpoDHIIJO2hJwT3KnINdBtV0jFyAOYC6C_fu7z2RyBj9GyCH9QX7BmCh1g_mIHzDbmwqrpyHkUPHTHeOwXYeKwAn1U6DbL7G9w9_cBpixxsrMlzZqrMVI7cF4/s1600/Chokolosskee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4pr_pVxbHbxOq4OJNbZpoDHIIJO2hJwT3KnINdBtV0jFyAOYC6C_fu7z2RyBj9GyCH9QX7BmCh1g_mIHzDbmwqrpyHkUPHTHeOwXYeKwAn1U6DbL7G9w9_cBpixxsrMlzZqrMVI7cF4/s1600/Chokolosskee.jpg" height="308" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I have been exploring how to use my Garmin GPS together with Google Earth to view maps of the areas we will visit. I create waypoints and routes on the GPS and then view them in GE. Sometime a route that looks good on the GPS charts has trees growing or sand in GE. I have adjusted the routes in a few places. In about two weeks we should find out which was more accurate NOAA charts or GE or maybe they will both be off. The dark green is mostly Mangrove I believe. The routes in purple are two versions of Rabbit Key pass. I have read there are strong currents and lots of sharp oyster bars.<br />
We will launch at Chokoloskee and plan to follow Rabbit Key Pass out to the Gulf to begin our trip.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgziVcKk3iJEnbWkGDEBfFfwaSIA6FZ2p44EVRcTwcjp07JgltyUOZxCjq4lbpx2YMtP0ixQLv4-wxz9OGGXyiLZqFrz2Gr8mjzB4h1wztek1iu2xa3mEMrnbMY9VGVtrKSYCXNFIWgQm4/s1600/P3050007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgziVcKk3iJEnbWkGDEBfFfwaSIA6FZ2p44EVRcTwcjp07JgltyUOZxCjq4lbpx2YMtP0ixQLv4-wxz9OGGXyiLZqFrz2Gr8mjzB4h1wztek1iu2xa3mEMrnbMY9VGVtrKSYCXNFIWgQm4/s1600/P3050007.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We arrived around 1pm Thursday March 5, 2015. We stopped at the Ranger Station and filled out a permit technically this was not required since we were staying on our boat, but the permit served as a float plan and would expedite a search and rescue in the event of our not returning per schedule.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ZCL2t2OclfE0okE9dkTbhitH-ddvc1PL-3PsC7erHER9I6D_SuScOwPHcdzuCOO3J63zJUUE6cFCg3UydcZ5jM619r4N0tKvBGds2PZwn7diXXk9BxR8j7u7P2ODFX2TeaFQfwZVzTo/s1600/P3050005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ZCL2t2OclfE0okE9dkTbhitH-ddvc1PL-3PsC7erHER9I6D_SuScOwPHcdzuCOO3J63zJUUE6cFCg3UydcZ5jM619r4N0tKvBGds2PZwn7diXXk9BxR8j7u7P2ODFX2TeaFQfwZVzTo/s1600/P3050005.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The weather was warm with a 15 kt breeze from the south west. We went to work stepping the masts and rigging the boat. High tide was at 2pm and ideally we would leave as close to that as possible.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1dB_ge2cuZpjud1rfpv4lrVISU__1O0tNYb2Q6tDtszy1hN3QjY5LFY7zqIUKAu5GvoGpt40ETHuNNVRgJPdAveAZ3IuifP_djx3cJjX9g52RmSA20NhWErT4oczMmrfX0ezVcY5PkE/s1600/P3050009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1dB_ge2cuZpjud1rfpv4lrVISU__1O0tNYb2Q6tDtszy1hN3QjY5LFY7zqIUKAu5GvoGpt40ETHuNNVRgJPdAveAZ3IuifP_djx3cJjX9g52RmSA20NhWErT4oczMmrfX0ezVcY5PkE/s1600/P3050009.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I remove all the rigging from the boat when trailering more than a few miles so all the halyards, sheets, topping lifts, tiller tamer, down hauls, snotter lines have to be threaded. Plus all our gear and supplies for six days at sea. I am slower than most, it took a couple of hours to have the boat ready for the ramp.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCTbPyNjS6WffHXPvJTnAWOtrYDfVdaTt7x0cw4djkYgyosnBWn9KASmAikpd86uu0QMnsDzPOo9SgtYkpD7VRKFDD6MupUe4jGrx4C12L-OXjo3xaOwUVgkhmf5SXJ_xDwkGBD-zMMIw/s1600/P3050011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCTbPyNjS6WffHXPvJTnAWOtrYDfVdaTt7x0cw4djkYgyosnBWn9KASmAikpd86uu0QMnsDzPOo9SgtYkpD7VRKFDD6MupUe4jGrx4C12L-OXjo3xaOwUVgkhmf5SXJ_xDwkGBD-zMMIw/s1600/P3050011.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It was after 4pm when Sally reports that Skorpa was ready to set sail on her first adventure to the Everglades.<br />
<br />
The tide was visibly lower and the current ebbing as we worked our way around Chokoloskee to the entrance to Rabbit Key Pass.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxZIXtL3WcyZO4u8OPCjtc5dQqvKYijit7tiXU0lXDQ7Cb30uID5LnVdOEc-yKMYHn9DmIaJWRlA0_7fYxa6hyoRJs1NR1CPx5f6kA5ZS6GMLFRRRx7MqkJY-xnZex9NZb9wQeM_kSP4/s1600/P3050013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxZIXtL3WcyZO4u8OPCjtc5dQqvKYijit7tiXU0lXDQ7Cb30uID5LnVdOEc-yKMYHn9DmIaJWRlA0_7fYxa6hyoRJs1NR1CPx5f6kA5ZS6GMLFRRRx7MqkJY-xnZex9NZb9wQeM_kSP4/s1600/P3050013.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I decided to reef both sails even though the wind was likely to ease off because I wanted to limit our speed through the Pass to give me time to read the GPS and the land and water features for clues as to the best way through the Pass. There are at least two other ways out of Chokoloskee Bay to the Gulf. Both Indian Key Pass and Chokoloskee Pass are deeper and better marked than Rabbit Key Pass, but they are a little out of the way if you are heading south and not as much of a challenge.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3czoYxv9l1hMGkIDwLBS3MpcGYeKYMzqy_-iD7hz8d8CyTOtXTx7zHy3ZTvM0tT102jdxUq_makW5W7R_iA7I8TXeeARz6KF2pjG3S-HslMy1gOPFXgPrrG_WUhY00LH4pVIX8aX3jU/s1600/P3050015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3czoYxv9l1hMGkIDwLBS3MpcGYeKYMzqy_-iD7hz8d8CyTOtXTx7zHy3ZTvM0tT102jdxUq_makW5W7R_iA7I8TXeeARz6KF2pjG3S-HslMy1gOPFXgPrrG_WUhY00LH4pVIX8aX3jU/s1600/P3050015.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Almost right off the bat I started getting in trouble. I remember remarking to Sally, ' That is some funny looking water' It reminded me of the riffles you see when canoeing down a river. Then we could see rocks all around us and the current dragging us toward them. I could see from the GPS that we were off my long researched route and there was no way back against the current to rejoin it. Horrifying grinding noises were coming from the bottom of the boat as we scraped over rocks and oysters. Finally putting my rusty river reading skills to work I could make out a shoot through the rocks and a path to what looked like deeper water.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Mc_KoYmEVSrFS13q4hz-TTqeemUBx2ji4vaNbNfaAqKqOZELU9LAfKVQZRUaK1deQZC2XlFwCMYKAfdFqWAi_1NSGmcwR6qzudtDFanLxRwUobuKwhW_LuegaDRXSLps4xyP7quz7Rk/s1600/P3050018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Mc_KoYmEVSrFS13q4hz-TTqeemUBx2ji4vaNbNfaAqKqOZELU9LAfKVQZRUaK1deQZC2XlFwCMYKAfdFqWAi_1NSGmcwR6qzudtDFanLxRwUobuKwhW_LuegaDRXSLps4xyP7quz7Rk/s1600/P3050018.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The rest of Rabbit Key Pass was easier and we were getting better at reading the water to find a safe passage. The sun was getting low as we passed Turtle Key and rounded Rabbbit Key and headed into the Gulf. We decided to head for my nearest planned anchorage at Joe Kemp Key. This was still a few miles away and would mean sailing in the dark. Sally was not crazy about sailing in the dark, but I did not want to anchor in the Pass.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvIIGIPC242oe1t-i-df_AIwgFTa8paL7JRxlECumMKzqJJXf7SHLE7RIU86ksD0kn9BhUgoh_D1qNvkh82REG9ExI9gy4jX7fVdRsUNpO7l1S5_5XwZr-sVF94EIKfCrSjNGl1iRwbg/s1600/P3050021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvIIGIPC242oe1t-i-df_AIwgFTa8paL7JRxlECumMKzqJJXf7SHLE7RIU86ksD0kn9BhUgoh_D1qNvkh82REG9ExI9gy4jX7fVdRsUNpO7l1S5_5XwZr-sVF94EIKfCrSjNGl1iRwbg/s1600/P3050021.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
We dropped the hook in about a fathom of water just south of Joe Kemp Key. The mosquitoes were waiting for us so we retreated to the cabin and installed the screens on the hatch and doorway. We were both tired from the long day but we decided to cook Pasta e Fagioli for supper, rigatoni, pasta sauce and beans. It was a little effort at first but felt way better having a hot meal as Skorpa rocked gently in the moonlight our first night on the water.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
When the sun started to go down I had looked to change my sunglasses for regular glasses but I could not find them. Sally sailed us up to our anchorage as I could not see much that was more than twenty feet away. We could not find the glasses in any of our gear so we concluded that they must be in the truck back at Chokoloskee about 7 miles away. We discussed continuing without them as I only need them after dusk. We did not plan on sailing after dark but if the need should arrive I would be really handicapped. So.....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzo-chWy_Xdt0sjlZZpeIL3jDBJEDya82VHub6sM-JRxUXTwk5ryaDzU7P_JDqVI8OGPA933Zos9ORrwhjCO-5HIPWdBxN6q2HMtTMNnAvZ9HdOcesddeOe_Ng316oY-zbqRGAt6VCltQ/s1600/P3060024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzo-chWy_Xdt0sjlZZpeIL3jDBJEDya82VHub6sM-JRxUXTwk5ryaDzU7P_JDqVI8OGPA933Zos9ORrwhjCO-5HIPWdBxN6q2HMtTMNnAvZ9HdOcesddeOe_Ng316oY-zbqRGAt6VCltQ/s1600/P3060024.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Rabbit Key Pass take two.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEija9onmsOxcgj1RBvgHB34WKYS8PyLu9H5t3zKyRiOSxjy_FY7paFzVZhByMCIif68tTOLz10axLfii0GwTGRhVyCeuqMejXJtIc_0sy7EZjJ7fYNQnpVK84sh_RR4MzsDE7btYKNl6WI/s1600/P3060028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEija9onmsOxcgj1RBvgHB34WKYS8PyLu9H5t3zKyRiOSxjy_FY7paFzVZhByMCIif68tTOLz10axLfii0GwTGRhVyCeuqMejXJtIc_0sy7EZjJ7fYNQnpVK84sh_RR4MzsDE7btYKNl6WI/s1600/P3060028.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The tide was low but flooding instead of ebbing, big psychological plus.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJS2hEDPVFWhkUubpxkVJJUIHU2awdcpOZHif_sTaLjCbAUrJzA2PwknSfLrbb_9QTVWxwjRxYOO2__Qm11ZkPRYrw-7ND3_Ob1skh64AIOWY_vEPalTLS6SL0_egY1gcq6_WL8NpOPxE/s1600/P3060030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJS2hEDPVFWhkUubpxkVJJUIHU2awdcpOZHif_sTaLjCbAUrJzA2PwknSfLrbb_9QTVWxwjRxYOO2__Qm11ZkPRYrw-7ND3_Ob1skh64AIOWY_vEPalTLS6SL0_egY1gcq6_WL8NpOPxE/s1600/P3060030.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
These pilings mark the entrance to Rabbit Key Pass decorated with Royal Terns. We docked Skorpa at the <a href="http://www.smallwoodstore.com/">Ted Smallwood Store</a> and Museum. Sally enjoyed the coolness of the store while I walked across Chokoloskee to find my glasses and some ice cream. I found my glasses. The trading post dates back to the beginning of the last century.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJyVevh7BRSYPTSscBokcTX4gajGdSp3demXD4Wrgt9LJbJ6NVfef-i993__QXq0niUigAfye_J7NZ9PVHlbyshvLp6zP3czfPTcCm8XdoRb3vdni0bB_bdyfIX09P-Qp8hZl70pPnUE/s1600/DSC_5283-300x199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJyVevh7BRSYPTSscBokcTX4gajGdSp3demXD4Wrgt9LJbJ6NVfef-i993__QXq0niUigAfye_J7NZ9PVHlbyshvLp6zP3czfPTcCm8XdoRb3vdni0bB_bdyfIX09P-Qp8hZl70pPnUE/s1600/DSC_5283-300x199.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a treat to approach the store by water much as the natives to the area did a century ago. We took our time hanging out at the store because we could not leave due to the still flooding tide and the southwest wind. We made our departure around 3pm. The tide was about 2 hours higher than our last trip out so we had no trouble. As we passed Turtle Key we were thrilled to see both dolphins and sea turtles. It was getting late and we had vowed not to come into anchorage again after sundown but I did not want to stay at the same anchorage twice so we headed for Duck Rock just east of Pavilion Key. <br />
<br />
Off to the East the sky was dark with some potentially interesting cloud formations. We pushed on keeping a weather eye on them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1363lMsyTPwpXUtc1TRZsx6Vcf1pdQSI3U1frI7QCQF7zbtjgQ7xhjy1piAh73Pr42osRrg1k6jE9akv5dE7u5C95GuCtLPphdfzu2S2IhdeD5-gLnl7jCeHPgPW18RvMK8jy6h5jU6w/s1600/P3060032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1363lMsyTPwpXUtc1TRZsx6Vcf1pdQSI3U1frI7QCQF7zbtjgQ7xhjy1piAh73Pr42osRrg1k6jE9akv5dE7u5C95GuCtLPphdfzu2S2IhdeD5-gLnl7jCeHPgPW18RvMK8jy6h5jU6w/s1600/P3060032.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Happy to be at anchor.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUI2aor9kAEK2BQ6qBPwPpBEtQGM_2LrF_NZ6Jl3UVPmoFilkSZPdjuwXu_QReMCU2shI63Skd_JlDpHj4hchGW4cm9GzqYDr5IYgtZrupK39V2YJdD5QtYO2lSwzZzetZO04MhiBzV54/s1600/P3060031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUI2aor9kAEK2BQ6qBPwPpBEtQGM_2LrF_NZ6Jl3UVPmoFilkSZPdjuwXu_QReMCU2shI63Skd_JlDpHj4hchGW4cm9GzqYDr5IYgtZrupK39V2YJdD5QtYO2lSwzZzetZO04MhiBzV54/s1600/P3060031.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My criteria for choosing an anchorage included a place deep enough so we would have a foot or two of water under us at low tide, sheltered from the predicted wind by land, easy to leave on our chosen route with likely wind direction, and clear of any likely fairways. Bonus points for scenery and freedom from the winged demons. Friday night the wind blew steadily and waves gently lapped at the boat we had few mosquitoes. In the morning winds were 10-15 kts from the NE. We left anchor under single reefed mizzen alone waiting to see what the wind would do later we raised the main with two reefs.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqj-UznWVbSeo7Xv7O8Yx4MqNV2JO5ynEXrf4XXHHBPzRFx-JMjeACxvZW6WZg4v4acKep39lIMqNr65vSfuPRBh8cpWWr3qNHW0x8yL_LXSUTPQFLRJuUEzHjdEdlshEtBZE6XETdtlE/s1600/P3070033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqj-UznWVbSeo7Xv7O8Yx4MqNV2JO5ynEXrf4XXHHBPzRFx-JMjeACxvZW6WZg4v4acKep39lIMqNr65vSfuPRBh8cpWWr3qNHW0x8yL_LXSUTPQFLRJuUEzHjdEdlshEtBZE6XETdtlE/s1600/P3070033.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We took the North entrance to Lostmans River. We had timed our arrival so the tide was near to high and flooding which was helpful as the channel is narrow. The wind was out of the east 10-15kts. Below is a view across First Bay looking to the east where the river narrows.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPI3jbM2Jzb5Gq9zW9paKGbJ6CU0wB8A2p4XDLyt2QVgXeaED2XGd5584C3-koSvZaZ8btEAJxL2GeraGsCQ4bEJG2MKNKW_c0ySm98lCuyB4VqNWqXzzHXdZUH2KHW2_5BffETfz4f-o/s1600/P3070039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPI3jbM2Jzb5Gq9zW9paKGbJ6CU0wB8A2p4XDLyt2QVgXeaED2XGd5584C3-koSvZaZ8btEAJxL2GeraGsCQ4bEJG2MKNKW_c0ySm98lCuyB4VqNWqXzzHXdZUH2KHW2_5BffETfz4f-o/s1600/P3070039.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We sailed up the river for a mile or so and anchored for lunch. While we were in the cabin eating lunch and taking a break from the sun we heard some ominous creaking and groaning coming from the anchor line and deck cleats. This was followed by a loud sound of water rushing against the side of the boat and a strange feel to how the boat was laying to anchor. We rushed out on deck to find Skorpa turned sideways to the current of 5 to 6 knots. We could see the anchor line coming out from the center of the boat. This was putting a tremendous strain on the anchor, anchor line and centerboard. After trying several approaches to freeing the anchor line. I noticed that the rudder was only partially raised and the current was pushing hard against it. Raising the rudder clear of the water disturbed the balance enough for us to be able to swing the boat off the center board. I promptly raised the board and made a note not to anchor in a tidal flow without having the rudder and center board fully raised.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDP67Z-5TH71gkflEOVLhhxBxUfun4EE6cxDBSPbxX8N1v3tPkGyDYOY1YU-JK5jkEWDHPD8M7xUKvTe9fE-cXLf9LKwKY5lCbaGdpJvYzEX3wW9mw6Y_vgDUgM8xrlqWge5kz_6YGPU/s1600/P3070034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDP67Z-5TH71gkflEOVLhhxBxUfun4EE6cxDBSPbxX8N1v3tPkGyDYOY1YU-JK5jkEWDHPD8M7xUKvTe9fE-cXLf9LKwKY5lCbaGdpJvYzEX3wW9mw6Y_vgDUgM8xrlqWge5kz_6YGPU/s1600/P3070034.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Looking up the Lostmans River. Skorpa is laying at anchor with the current but against the wind.<br />
<br />
Below is a view across First Bay to the mouth of Lostmans River.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmKMLdkZMBsyC4I3-eTPmD-2zWgk-A5gjPZcI7DCoZ0IYYxD-TTWxFzumzxF3-aKoTGB8NYPMpHCvL4wcp7SQqkkIdlU30C8vBamOpyy0sRCn6cCjamyampoA5QexgVa-dUDaoFYLHa8Y/s1600/P3070045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmKMLdkZMBsyC4I3-eTPmD-2zWgk-A5gjPZcI7DCoZ0IYYxD-TTWxFzumzxF3-aKoTGB8NYPMpHCvL4wcp7SQqkkIdlU30C8vBamOpyy0sRCn6cCjamyampoA5QexgVa-dUDaoFYLHa8Y/s1600/P3070045.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I did not fancy anchoring near Lostmans River because of the shoals and currents so we headed north a little ways along the coast to Wood Key Cove. I was not careful about checking the water depth and state of the tide when we anchored and we were only left with about 6 inches of water under our keel at low tide.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKKuG2YSI8v0aSxJidxnZftGErDk4rHJ4ujDo08C_6z2XeuHI4pe1uoLSE2aSN5bSr2hrnki01LPUeyviw2vPMroRpUSW0Ro6NNB5Y7d4h2Mz9Gc_Sp8hapzLTxkL2RlNsALkPIU0HsY/s1600/P3070066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKKuG2YSI8v0aSxJidxnZftGErDk4rHJ4ujDo08C_6z2XeuHI4pe1uoLSE2aSN5bSr2hrnki01LPUeyviw2vPMroRpUSW0Ro6NNB5Y7d4h2Mz9Gc_Sp8hapzLTxkL2RlNsALkPIU0HsY/s1600/P3070066.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Our cooked from scratch in our pressure cooker supper. Brown rice, onions, peppers, carrots, and veggie sausage. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCwQzDm1PwLZQY_nzSXArbWFJgoofiBCwF9AeB98CZ0HCibF6sKIIUo3gMFE7zgSS7wY1ofcQ86YOB0AnV116mFY9t0_oleRcbk_-DDzs1pqQ0rHW41_JVE7MLXWb_zpcqaPFk9rgz-NY/s1600/P3070076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCwQzDm1PwLZQY_nzSXArbWFJgoofiBCwF9AeB98CZ0HCibF6sKIIUo3gMFE7zgSS7wY1ofcQ86YOB0AnV116mFY9t0_oleRcbk_-DDzs1pqQ0rHW41_JVE7MLXWb_zpcqaPFk9rgz-NY/s1600/P3070076.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Low tide was about 9am on Sunday morning so I decided to leave early before the water got any skinnier. I sailed off under mizzen only to a 10 kt breeze from the east. Later Sally came out to the cockpit and we hauled up the main with 2 reefs. The wind was now 15 kts with higher gusts. We made good progress along the coast staying just outside the shallow water. The wind continued to build until it was 20 kts or so with higher gusts. considering our remoteness and the possibility that the wind would continue to build we brought the main back down and sailed under single reefed mizzen only. The wind was veering to the south which would make our planned stop at Graveyard Creek a lee shore. So we stopped at Shark Point just north of Ponce De Leon Bay to have lunch and review our plans.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlT0sAEjeL8c08AiE99SFHttRUSA1S0d8XUl8rRNzNioL1w9liR3LpF7zb77JWoY8Czpg3mDjMJKogJ1hP1D-3EG5S8FMR94VYawyrzd7s8PFLFCNDqqe6nOjGPYxu1ygJ0O0mOyRyAx0/s1600/P3080077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlT0sAEjeL8c08AiE99SFHttRUSA1S0d8XUl8rRNzNioL1w9liR3LpF7zb77JWoY8Czpg3mDjMJKogJ1hP1D-3EG5S8FMR94VYawyrzd7s8PFLFCNDqqe6nOjGPYxu1ygJ0O0mOyRyAx0/s1600/P3080077.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The tide was high so we took the opportunity to swing the boat in towards land and give the crew a little shore leave.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2p5PJZ0UUyTiO5hsEiuO_zYZ8Cgy_KiRQ3mR-0mcLIRoDth1qsryxfZEj1w6NudmXTq1VQomTqC7poiK5WSEitebXQ3SccWpWMja8nMbM9ztRhfbAjkhADb_iCA4fEmKFmX5mvOfGgC4/s1600/P3080087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2p5PJZ0UUyTiO5hsEiuO_zYZ8Cgy_KiRQ3mR-0mcLIRoDth1qsryxfZEj1w6NudmXTq1VQomTqC7poiK5WSEitebXQ3SccWpWMja8nMbM9ztRhfbAjkhADb_iCA4fEmKFmX5mvOfGgC4/s1600/P3080087.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOGAAYWYK7PT06k2Jrg1YXDgfsGkmg9RnupVHqnY0xfqtHVwavh-FvI5APJppvN5ouHG9C4HCIoopTkITIv7C9aaTgS3oKTp7JYQ8ew9-KJ4Ztl5ufEHBuT4yjgsDzNeUbtHXsl3e0RQ/s1600/P3080085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOGAAYWYK7PT06k2Jrg1YXDgfsGkmg9RnupVHqnY0xfqtHVwavh-FvI5APJppvN5ouHG9C4HCIoopTkITIv7C9aaTgS3oKTp7JYQ8ew9-KJ4Ztl5ufEHBuT4yjgsDzNeUbtHXsl3e0RQ/s1600/P3080085.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The weather was looking uncertain with showers and shifting gusty winds. We discussed heading back towards the Harney River to gain some shelter from the south winds. In the end we decided to push on to Ponce De Leon Bay under reefed main and mizzen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq402jZbiYcUoqj7fWpSZndQIFvBSXopEb3iNx3bzXPGhWCtCW9agnl_VOUyVnivsS-KEXfH2MSKq8DdrcFGV7Rv1EujppSdIN0Fi3ptU3BU30MS82_9uMg8OQkAhHPLm6cfQlT8eMtSA/s1600/P3080089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq402jZbiYcUoqj7fWpSZndQIFvBSXopEb3iNx3bzXPGhWCtCW9agnl_VOUyVnivsS-KEXfH2MSKq8DdrcFGV7Rv1EujppSdIN0Fi3ptU3BU30MS82_9uMg8OQkAhHPLm6cfQlT8eMtSA/s1600/P3080089.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The Bay felt deserted and a little foreboding under the glowering skies, yet I felt a sense of elation venturing into remote unexplored territory. Sally told me this was primarily a guy thing. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24R-4WJdz_14Je5BZ9FXazsgcQ6RpxbscLrWLqfbd9gRRexxg0euIeJCFhBX8UQhfHxXQ2qRstrUZTx8QUEe8sRyISZAHjpYYIbpoaHObZJUUKyaUag1Pz7BLGFkTy9fzaFsb95tNWfw/s1600/P3080096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24R-4WJdz_14Je5BZ9FXazsgcQ6RpxbscLrWLqfbd9gRRexxg0euIeJCFhBX8UQhfHxXQ2qRstrUZTx8QUEe8sRyISZAHjpYYIbpoaHObZJUUKyaUag1Pz7BLGFkTy9fzaFsb95tNWfw/s1600/P3080096.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGn7zATvhb5mvTNVBMDUgrhhdq3UTuRRJKgeXcnoP9m5uAtSYB1bWd_mW7ZrOwZgFPO4j4zWY_y49H-9Jx7w1zdcixWiRU7X4qdusxP9UOt5Ysg_WB3mMiFzQ-70DbGetOSZmngt1VRIQ/s1600/P3080093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGn7zATvhb5mvTNVBMDUgrhhdq3UTuRRJKgeXcnoP9m5uAtSYB1bWd_mW7ZrOwZgFPO4j4zWY_y49H-9Jx7w1zdcixWiRU7X4qdusxP9UOt5Ysg_WB3mMiFzQ-70DbGetOSZmngt1VRIQ/s1600/P3080093.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We managed the showers and gusty winds with no problem and after awhile the sun peeked out.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtL0MJAogWAYvTvJ9_kuvzKpDf8KMWsqg5nObWKeqJmBruop9ZgF2-tPnUK4ubnHsMDsHh9-SKHA_N7XY60DHX8Qo-KSR_dqMHXOxIh2dEnQLwZuLgKJvKy9O64P9bXe9FFT745BmtaaA/s1600/P3080095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtL0MJAogWAYvTvJ9_kuvzKpDf8KMWsqg5nObWKeqJmBruop9ZgF2-tPnUK4ubnHsMDsHh9-SKHA_N7XY60DHX8Qo-KSR_dqMHXOxIh2dEnQLwZuLgKJvKy9O64P9bXe9FFT745BmtaaA/s1600/P3080095.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We picked out a possible anchorage for the night then sailed up one of the dozen or so rivers that empty into Ponce De Leon Bay.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgHU4p1CBJyzgKZSgsVUvKs-YQjw5fEB9VyskHYIZ22CVt5WzfJ3zZvBI2FjK-vM3zyuGNb2KRivpsv7IQM2lrq3K23KGA6TRG9VT958YBYtOWg1cm0lbEXbLK0iHvfeS1uLX_HYtSQ0/s1600/P3080102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgHU4p1CBJyzgKZSgsVUvKs-YQjw5fEB9VyskHYIZ22CVt5WzfJ3zZvBI2FjK-vM3zyuGNb2KRivpsv7IQM2lrq3K23KGA6TRG9VT958YBYtOWg1cm0lbEXbLK0iHvfeS1uLX_HYtSQ0/s1600/P3080102.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Near Rabbit Key and Pavilion Key we saw kayakers, up Lostmans River we saw fisherman in small power boats, but here we saw no one. No sound but the wind, waves and tropical sounding bird calls coming from the mangroves. It felt like exploring up the Amazon. The river twisted and turned you could get lost in the maze of mangrove islands.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhPvFV74kD0GUxa36i2D_dYfu2iN42tGgy1sQPAWMFqxEL3YpVKVWi7gRO0jYCHhdxFiyBnrmEqI-fEUzzP5srd4lNZA22TiT4GuuEtoVpH62beJYj6JY60xD6uTQZHIeaVazdbDgoBAQ/s1600/P3080103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhPvFV74kD0GUxa36i2D_dYfu2iN42tGgy1sQPAWMFqxEL3YpVKVWi7gRO0jYCHhdxFiyBnrmEqI-fEUzzP5srd4lNZA22TiT4GuuEtoVpH62beJYj6JY60xD6uTQZHIeaVazdbDgoBAQ/s1600/P3080103.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The winds were still gusting down the channel when we turned and headed back out to our anchorage in Ponce De Leon Bay.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0DjluIGwPPdlKM0Crlzl64lGCkXW5vcye2TpBA4PjHt-EZ-LPsZl4y63MfoHis5zqpXGXaqTpbPpO3lrPxuNi8bPGoEsjDsNZLsbL2ewtNmS3o5kCz3Tk6ld_hwQS6UZRcpyPWS9ntQ/s1600/P3080105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0DjluIGwPPdlKM0Crlzl64lGCkXW5vcye2TpBA4PjHt-EZ-LPsZl4y63MfoHis5zqpXGXaqTpbPpO3lrPxuNi8bPGoEsjDsNZLsbL2ewtNmS3o5kCz3Tk6ld_hwQS6UZRcpyPWS9ntQ/s1600/P3080105.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
You can see why some people remark of the Everglades " There is nothing to see." By standing on the cabin roof we were able to send text messages for the first time in a couple of days. When possible I would send a text to our son David so someone would have an idea of where we were and how we were doing. Beautiful sunrise Ponce De Leon Bay.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilD79QVGWH4C4dolaJidYCMnBaAXqUYjg9chyDhIolH_n48-pZhBKC1cqt5eQoa5A8Fs0ZNBoNZl0aUkaREN8kB3tSrrSRAtbPr-bzBfXCYaY4TFtLwtkTD7MuYG88KIaDUnceoBmAj0o/s1600/P3090112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilD79QVGWH4C4dolaJidYCMnBaAXqUYjg9chyDhIolH_n48-pZhBKC1cqt5eQoa5A8Fs0ZNBoNZl0aUkaREN8kB3tSrrSRAtbPr-bzBfXCYaY4TFtLwtkTD7MuYG88KIaDUnceoBmAj0o/s1600/P3090112.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4aYTln5WoA">Video of our Monday sail heading north back up the coast.</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kMrYucnAjg5AqCQKi1LGjUi78CXed8Jy0ivrOIktrr62IaOSLjAN36KNZKtwb-zDuz29_aEZBp41v9qSY5lZ1wFh2nCTqMRBiDVLRuvJr_yhmAhPOiqczNHPSHTnqj3RiKh0VXl9EPo/s1600/P3100160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kMrYucnAjg5AqCQKi1LGjUi78CXed8Jy0ivrOIktrr62IaOSLjAN36KNZKtwb-zDuz29_aEZBp41v9qSY5lZ1wFh2nCTqMRBiDVLRuvJr_yhmAhPOiqczNHPSHTnqj3RiKh0VXl9EPo/s1600/P3100160.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We heard from a couple of kayakers at Turkey Key that the Waterrtibe Everglades Challenge had been cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. The Coast Guard was called on to perform 12 rescues in Tampa Bay. We passed a Hobie Adventure Island sailing near Pavilion Key. Probably a Watertribe member who had decided to continue on after the race was cancelled.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TypKbfkBNUc">Passing Pavilion Key and on to Rabbit Key Pass</a> Click for Video<br />
<br />
<br />
We arrived at Rabbit Key pass around noon on Tuesday. We could have continued on to Chokoloskee we would have had a favorable wind and tide. However that would have put us at the boat ramp mid afternoon with a lot of work yet to do to get the boat ready to travel and a three hour drive up to Gary's house at Lake Wales or a night spent anchored at Chokoloskee. We elected to spend the afternoon at one of our favorite spots Turtle Key and then anchor for the night out of the channel at nearby Lumber Key.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitGaaGYxZreF1BtAdGzkoapE-lejY7JnbeVj-XS68ZHsBmEStk-pYDU-FW5XhWYU3q0O6A2GKei4ztehhDdQutQv5_6kpqZyCXXxRoIFrH0BdF4o7EUCCY-upKVDP_nPfM7zruId5d7Sw/s1600/P3100187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitGaaGYxZreF1BtAdGzkoapE-lejY7JnbeVj-XS68ZHsBmEStk-pYDU-FW5XhWYU3q0O6A2GKei4ztehhDdQutQv5_6kpqZyCXXxRoIFrH0BdF4o7EUCCY-upKVDP_nPfM7zruId5d7Sw/s1600/P3100187.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Skorpa anchored off Turtle Key behind a Black Mangrove.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtqxNKU3Hl7Fl6xfd7r4y7BxoRVdfeP_65CC969VkvXMRFePS3KhU2ofGJE4RA5ffufZAm17Mm8xp9ePDLvq8U0PyKvOOqiBcK2slK5qFo8zwDtUt7HAY7RSAAbIRAtRtjHUBdmkdQhKY/s1600/P3100188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtqxNKU3Hl7Fl6xfd7r4y7BxoRVdfeP_65CC969VkvXMRFePS3KhU2ofGJE4RA5ffufZAm17Mm8xp9ePDLvq8U0PyKvOOqiBcK2slK5qFo8zwDtUt7HAY7RSAAbIRAtRtjHUBdmkdQhKY/s1600/P3100188.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7HGKJkA0Dv7X_UWZbg7e1dK66Y9pN7WSw-eiuARrsTzq_hLNWKrDKnVwXuNREjePXPYIYiZVM5dajIEwyNTyceSrecgADQQ_tEqYBozpsJPsRyMFTbdwS7lIf_0-RdMnvWK2LXVt3Ds4/s1600/P3100185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7HGKJkA0Dv7X_UWZbg7e1dK66Y9pN7WSw-eiuARrsTzq_hLNWKrDKnVwXuNREjePXPYIYiZVM5dajIEwyNTyceSrecgADQQ_tEqYBozpsJPsRyMFTbdwS7lIf_0-RdMnvWK2LXVt3Ds4/s1600/P3100185.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I set up the Bimini I had made especially for this trip. We had not used it because usually when we got to our anchorage we were too tired to do anything but climb into the cabin and put the screens up over the doorway and hatch. While we were at Turtle Key we saw more dolphins, sea turtles and a sailor heading out into the Gulf in his Hobie Adventure Island. A favorite craft of the Watertribe.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPlXND6XRFbPvin5cuGMtT_cC2Emwc_8_WtKwVM189Gye1qAODOkcC4Iydln0BpWUJh_HxYA_1aYKpMK7yYzLBckePO5pTj9RtNSa6N_nsG91aMVbXU5vq1Wcz4sIlsuq_2W21d_aXkw/s1600/P3100179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPlXND6XRFbPvin5cuGMtT_cC2Emwc_8_WtKwVM189Gye1qAODOkcC4Iydln0BpWUJh_HxYA_1aYKpMK7yYzLBckePO5pTj9RtNSa6N_nsG91aMVbXU5vq1Wcz4sIlsuq_2W21d_aXkw/s1600/P3100179.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sally wading ashore.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxf_fuYL26h1orORVIFFCoyKSM2NqBnNXjzh5-GpJiGz_73hlvV5K4WWpXgrDN3Jf36p7x_Ml2GTvFNUsUGc3cFG-D1hCj-e2TxZ-fUHbJgUBI7brtTQWGAY0SMWUCyAl_Lt8LBcaXvDc/s1600/P3100193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxf_fuYL26h1orORVIFFCoyKSM2NqBnNXjzh5-GpJiGz_73hlvV5K4WWpXgrDN3Jf36p7x_Ml2GTvFNUsUGc3cFG-D1hCj-e2TxZ-fUHbJgUBI7brtTQWGAY0SMWUCyAl_Lt8LBcaXvDc/s1600/P3100193.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We waded partly around the island. The open beach is small and trekking through the interior would likely awake the swamp angels.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71rXD_WELh7qduH_9VdJCs0WeYAmRDnW8npFToeJtZLNiK0pkzE3FO2NhbskZ8Kt6xHwoG4WOtVf_Q0o1jG0TlCMM5ANCVeTgqyA8j-2Mu36Y-jIigEReI6ZriIIMDU6sKJwIRGNydv4/s1600/P3100205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71rXD_WELh7qduH_9VdJCs0WeYAmRDnW8npFToeJtZLNiK0pkzE3FO2NhbskZ8Kt6xHwoG4WOtVf_Q0o1jG0TlCMM5ANCVeTgqyA8j-2Mu36Y-jIigEReI6ZriIIMDU6sKJwIRGNydv4/s1600/P3100205.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We were very interested in the Mangrove trees. They are specially adapted to exist in a saltwater environment. The Red Mangrove has special prop roots that drop down from horizontal branches that helps to stabilize the shoreline.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOyAQcK__ymNP9bhsqYr4cleTlIWoTIiE1r6Zngjhng0Av0cekciW8TGGXIvVJwBsHY6-EChJqiHxTL8nFXyAMRUGGh0Kj0xQJIISJBpU5-M7gieH6HTB3ZO-PlXcwNPoAPVcVKK5B2P8/s1600/P3100207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOyAQcK__ymNP9bhsqYr4cleTlIWoTIiE1r6Zngjhng0Av0cekciW8TGGXIvVJwBsHY6-EChJqiHxTL8nFXyAMRUGGh0Kj0xQJIISJBpU5-M7gieH6HTB3ZO-PlXcwNPoAPVcVKK5B2P8/s1600/P3100207.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Prop roots.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPF3A5rNsHyDpRDKIMp-FrB27PUr2kQEE6aJo7m4vDdP4qiT5n6epxjxbOf0qteAGJAahfaogIRMbhg3PBjl5UmeJ69684XUOnrdzIz5GdCtEhfcsDx22MahuxMYDHLyGFo1j5hyphenhyphencmIRI/s1600/P3100206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPF3A5rNsHyDpRDKIMp-FrB27PUr2kQEE6aJo7m4vDdP4qiT5n6epxjxbOf0qteAGJAahfaogIRMbhg3PBjl5UmeJ69684XUOnrdzIz5GdCtEhfcsDx22MahuxMYDHLyGFo1j5hyphenhyphencmIRI/s1600/P3100206.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Around 4pm we decided to head across the channel to Lumber Key so we could be at anchor before the Swamp Angels came out. Dolphins swam around our anchored boat. We could hear their breathing above the soft whine of the mosquitoes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcfcxnutCnppZEQJnnMykx5CrfBToj2-eoM7F8oTqQ1ME-X54OK3CKAI8f2PqcyCG75CZjF40NSBLhzkEYQ9HnUxj6ZnzARXNg4nmiWOromfMhs4y3iBK2VG09hL3h3r2X6Mcp0H3w3M/s1600/P3100222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcfcxnutCnppZEQJnnMykx5CrfBToj2-eoM7F8oTqQ1ME-X54OK3CKAI8f2PqcyCG75CZjF40NSBLhzkEYQ9HnUxj6ZnzARXNg4nmiWOromfMhs4y3iBK2VG09hL3h3r2X6Mcp0H3w3M/s1600/P3100222.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Two days later when we pulled into Gary's driveway pleased that I had arrived promptly at 6pm as I had promised he casually showed me his wrist watch which read 7pm and wondered if I may have forgotten to adjust my watch for Daylight Savings Time which had started the previous Sunday. This oversight lead us to be an hour later than we thought as we attempted to time our morning passage up Rabbit Key Pass with the tide and current.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmDwNtkcBEY">Rowing back to Chokoloskee</a> Click for Video<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sally enjoying our " We made It!" celebration at the lovely Havana Café in Chokoloskee.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh649tIgektvemSle-QkDSJ5nzPx0AZyBvqz1xX-aipm8LdJXwFXKpOOYwuIfgCijkx2phPu_9mZ0HGC85JS9kMM5PtTAcgUMO-ZkHEa4X8rFM6xhePpBX3go2VV17RkCLWi72ol1H0VQ/s1600/P3110227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh649tIgektvemSle-QkDSJ5nzPx0AZyBvqz1xX-aipm8LdJXwFXKpOOYwuIfgCijkx2phPu_9mZ0HGC85JS9kMM5PtTAcgUMO-ZkHEa4X8rFM6xhePpBX3go2VV17RkCLWi72ol1H0VQ/s1600/P3110227.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<img height="62" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAozqMHwaiepsfcJmJ10t4A40585zkjz4rBFy5u2E9jIgt23G433RKFQeSKSyZtXiSj6PzJU6rpeYZuAxS7d54ZtmuNJ4YrM4-rUcafsaEWkhzAFtFiFqZRKnv2Z1uQOPur9s_tOeLhig/s1600/P1110036a.jpg" style="left: 196px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: -89.32px;" width="96" />
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5wzwj10Nnjc%2FVLRwVkGlHYI%2FAAAAAAAABgw%2Fq7-OK33jqkA%2Fs1600%2FP1110036a.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAozqMHwaiepsfcJmJ10t4A40585zkjz4rBFy5u2E9jIgt23G433RKFQeSKSyZtXiSj6PzJU6rpeYZuAxS7d54ZtmuNJ4YrM4-rUcafsaEWkhzAFtFiFqZRKnv2Z1uQOPur9s_tOeLhig/s1600/P1110036a.jpg" -->Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-56242574569886661492014-11-14T04:08:00.002-08:002014-11-18T10:53:31.809-08:00In Search of Mouse HarborLate October often finds us travelling to North Carolina for the annual B and B Fall Messabout. If possible we go a few days early and spend a night or two at anchor exploring the area around the Bay River. Last April we spent a few days exploring the area around Judith Island. We launched our boat at Potters Marina near the mouth of the Pamlico. While we were there we heard from a fellow boater that Mouse Harbor was their favorite place in the whole area. <br />
<br />
<br />
Below is a view of Mouse Harbor from Google Earth. Much of the area is part of the Goose Island Wildlife Management Area. The dark areas look like ponds perhaps managed for waterfowl habitat. The plan was to poke into the creeks and ditches and see what we could find out.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-ZEIjVxm9E5JMmBt6kaWDa06JBSdibU8CQj6SRy6U9B-A7xqvfZ4h8qDR_tbTxd_eKHAafa9DejbiH6uut-QK_F_7gHW5iD2OlfPPgpOoWpHLjBt5h2QnDXJH4GqUsKk9Tt7zcj1LwQ/s1600/Google+Earth+Mouse+Harbor+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-ZEIjVxm9E5JMmBt6kaWDa06JBSdibU8CQj6SRy6U9B-A7xqvfZ4h8qDR_tbTxd_eKHAafa9DejbiH6uut-QK_F_7gHW5iD2OlfPPgpOoWpHLjBt5h2QnDXJH4GqUsKk9Tt7zcj1LwQ/s1600/Google+Earth+Mouse+Harbor+1.jpg" height="154" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span id="goog_665504810"></span><span id="goog_665504811">Below is a chart of the same area.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzPNu4oP17oZDSNrLpvvEFX5oN05qRyCKYNI2lXhPYOscdjiTJHIeXTE3QlrJQVMwY1e4_f_Q24lZcI4kZv6RLruoKC-Ubsin4s5WZxCzzjdzNxL2ktDK2zPjnVlqQCHpMeI-n9e5QsyE/s1600/Mouse+Harbor+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzPNu4oP17oZDSNrLpvvEFX5oN05qRyCKYNI2lXhPYOscdjiTJHIeXTE3QlrJQVMwY1e4_f_Q24lZcI4kZv6RLruoKC-Ubsin4s5WZxCzzjdzNxL2ktDK2zPjnVlqQCHpMeI-n9e5QsyE/s1600/Mouse+Harbor+001.jpg" height="232" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We arrived at Chapel Creek Tuesday evening. I wanted to launch the boat and sleep aboard tied up to the dock, but dark was soon upon us. I did not want to risk some sort of mishap in the darkness so we slept on the boat on the trailer and launched in the morning.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The forecast called for winds 20-25kt, cloudy and cool. We decided to delay our departure. There was lots to do helping Beth get the grounds and boats ready for the Messabout coming up on Friday.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thursday the forecast remained 20-25kt but sunnier which always helps. Our three day trip had now been reduced to two days. The gusty Northwest winds meant it would be a long slog up to Mouse Harbor with lots of fetch to build the chop as we crossed several good size bays. Plan B was to explore the canal that connects the mouth of Gale Creek to Jones Bay. A close look at Google Earth revealed what looked like a dead tree partially blocking the canal, but who knows when that photo was taken. Alan said he remembered sailing through the canal a few months back so that gave me confidence that we would be able to navigate the ditch. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRI-emRlQFP49wW-egJSAPxM-Mpg_NvfQSSPjtjH9dFJhGJnNEJJ5HTWDVJ624pw1o8FRHKXJfqLdkhEtJiL6PrmY5S5cLceCxe5ugznb_X7ad66xTSga5AibydNxKOxF9boDTbpLoiFc/s1600/20141023_114906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRI-emRlQFP49wW-egJSAPxM-Mpg_NvfQSSPjtjH9dFJhGJnNEJJ5HTWDVJ624pw1o8FRHKXJfqLdkhEtJiL6PrmY5S5cLceCxe5ugznb_X7ad66xTSga5AibydNxKOxF9boDTbpLoiFc/s320/20141023_114906.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The winds were 10kts or so when we left the dock, but anticipating they would build as we neared the mouth of the Bay River we started out double reefed. That is Graham Byrnes out on the end of the dock. He and Alan came down from the shop to see us off. The photo is courtesy of Alan Stewart. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We averaged around 5 to 6 kts with occasional runs up to 7 kts as we made our way down the Bay River. That is pretty good speed considering we had two reefs in. It is the kind of sailing Sally really loves but, I couldn't help thinking about how fast we would be going if we shook out the reefs. Later though I would be glad we had the reefs in place.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We sailed past Vandemere Creek on a reach and then a broad reach and sometimes a run as we followed the Bay River past Bear Creek to the mouth of Gale Creek. Up ahead we could see the parade of snow birds heading south. Sailing vessels and motor yachts each spaced about a 1/4 mile apart. The Intracoastal Waterway exits the ditch at the mouth of Gale Creek. From there the ICW follows the Bay River out into the Pamlico Sound. Then the ICW enters the Neuse River for a ways before taking another canal down to Beaufort.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our destination, Ditch Creek was hidden on the east shore a little ways up Gale Creek. The Creek runs Northwest here so we were tacking into the stiff Northwest breeze. Up ahead we could see a large motor yacht barreling down the ditch, she was kicking up a huge wake. The water shoals up outside the channel and the chart indicated some sort of obstruction just east of the channel PA. Position Approximate that is never reassuring. We short tacked as far east of the channel as we dared. As the big boat neared us she slowed down to a reasonable speed and her wake nearly disappeared. How courteous. She looked well over a hundred feet in length. We waved a thank you to the one person we could see at the helm. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The creeks in this area of the coast twist and turn through shores of spartina grass. When you look up their mouth from a Bay or a larger River all you see is the overlapping shores of spartina grass. it is almost impossible to pick out the entrance to some of the creeks even if you are looking right at it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Trusting our GPS and chart we headed away from Gale Creek and the ICW. We rounded up and dropped the hook close to some grass in 2 or 3 feet of water. I furled the main and we enjoyed our lunch sheltered from the waves and somewhat from the wind. During lunch we reviewed the chart and discussed our options. The Northwest wind should allow us to sail Northeast up the canal and the wind should diminish as we moved inland. Not being familiar with the area or certain of the current condition of the canal we wanted to proceed cautiously. We elected to continue under double reefed mizzen alone. This would limit our ability to work upwind if that became necessary but, it would allow us to limit our speed and depower quickly. We can sail in less than a foot of water but controlling the boat with the board and rudder partially down becomes less precise. We spotted a white post as we rounded a bend. The GPS though was indicating we should follow a more northerly course. The GPS is amazingly accurate but maneuvering through the marsh is like entering a maze. Just a few feet often separates following one lead or another. The GPS was pointing us off to windward and after a hundred yards or so we reached a cul de sac, but since we had been making some progress to windward returning to the white post was easy. Just around from the white post we could see a canal 25-30 feet wide straight as an arrow heading Northeast, Ditch Creek Canal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVev7bXIqXNazQVOaflwuyeX2aIh_K2fIeAKlqhrstJONuJ3tk-qHjbcwatE-yCM7B6kqJRtsv4XYyGjEmJLBjjFStAOpDMdRq5zdAbVMPBbxWMdCjvFJE6CPD4ZRrUWyUiGyDBOZustw/s1600/PA230004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVev7bXIqXNazQVOaflwuyeX2aIh_K2fIeAKlqhrstJONuJ3tk-qHjbcwatE-yCM7B6kqJRtsv4XYyGjEmJLBjjFStAOpDMdRq5zdAbVMPBbxWMdCjvFJE6CPD4ZRrUWyUiGyDBOZustw/s1600/PA230004.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Starting down Ditch Creek Canal. These canals and mosquito ditches were dug way back when in an attempt to drain the marshes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQtttZGHKmpX17yAZKz7ipluy2ZDSEZhGBDS-LUjq7qpzxkHFr0s3gvEi1BEXwFyaFbpkbrQlp0tfvGIBdIGvc5XBeRN3KU-WbX6x2EuVvhWOjQhFJ5sPHEWO56l8S3OUTwoTRhdrFoc/s1600/Google+Earth+Ditch+Creek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQtttZGHKmpX17yAZKz7ipluy2ZDSEZhGBDS-LUjq7qpzxkHFr0s3gvEi1BEXwFyaFbpkbrQlp0tfvGIBdIGvc5XBeRN3KU-WbX6x2EuVvhWOjQhFJ5sPHEWO56l8S3OUTwoTRhdrFoc/s1600/Google+Earth+Ditch+Creek.jpg" height="309" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the above photo Gale Creek is on the left. You can see how the channel narrows with shoal water on either side just before it empties into the Bay River. A little way up Gale Creek Ditch Creek heads east. We took the northern branch and from there you can see a canal heading Northeast to the Jones Bay Ditch Creek. Running perpendicular to the major canals are smaller ditches called by locals mosquito ditches.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4PRDNkJ6rHTJnpNqKcqipQfy7TEnmr2MI3GN8oq6IJPYnEEIU0FoF6yllxCwWwNSLf-UrddhRDv4R68hex3Ard2qcJZiMwP1wWmg12EKJ0D3e0yySXRxz5n1JJcOPJIFgJb8Z4iYoT4/s1600/PA230006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4PRDNkJ6rHTJnpNqKcqipQfy7TEnmr2MI3GN8oq6IJPYnEEIU0FoF6yllxCwWwNSLf-UrddhRDv4R68hex3Ard2qcJZiMwP1wWmg12EKJ0D3e0yySXRxz5n1JJcOPJIFgJb8Z4iYoT4/s1600/PA230006.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_eC3XBWagpoG5QG7Zm7nUixmlKSO7WNIdq0cam6g69uOPpzPamMsmoN1f2yJ1TVF9nPdSKoFWjS_YYUw8eNulR2SA5pQNv4ZC6MgEcNJD0M78oKy2vQU4L0NJyf51L0o5M1WNGIOI7sk/s1600/PA230012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_eC3XBWagpoG5QG7Zm7nUixmlKSO7WNIdq0cam6g69uOPpzPamMsmoN1f2yJ1TVF9nPdSKoFWjS_YYUw8eNulR2SA5pQNv4ZC6MgEcNJD0M78oKy2vQU4L0NJyf51L0o5M1WNGIOI7sk/s1600/PA230012.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cruising down the Ditch Creek Canal. The water depth was 2 to 3 feet. The wind behind us. Beautiful. After we exited the canal we explored around and found a little cove tucked up into the marsh on the western shore, but it was only 3 o'clock. Sally would have been happy to settle down early but I wanted to push on a little further and explore Jones Bay. The wind was blowing straight down Jones Bay and we could see white caps, and the wind was beginning to build. Spray was flying off the bow and streaming aft. The crew sits forward of the helmsperson and so takes the brunt of the spray when running close hauled into the waves and wind. After a particularly good dousing Sally turned and looked at me and I could see it was a little past time to come about. Soon we were back in the shelter of the creek but even here the wind was gusty. We found a sheltered spot and dropped anchor.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwPHcQslm_F7P7D__Vdw7vCu9VVgrzJj-T3FTOIz4GIvAnmsjt8DeQf288TecGO1Tv185EtRY7j7FLJIegMy8UdpQ_mX1l4A_jBafUMZMvdO2Pb2lcJ2fpXoHNSx2XcczHA05iBQR89w/s1600/PA230016a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwPHcQslm_F7P7D__Vdw7vCu9VVgrzJj-T3FTOIz4GIvAnmsjt8DeQf288TecGO1Tv185EtRY7j7FLJIegMy8UdpQ_mX1l4A_jBafUMZMvdO2Pb2lcJ2fpXoHNSx2XcczHA05iBQR89w/s1600/PA230016a.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sally enjoying the sun's warmth and a sheltered anchorage. It always amazes me that we can enjoy such peace and serenity such a short time and distance from spray flying over the bow.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr7UXilZbF8aaHqKup2054XZTOCEmKjrsbNupAB-l3cOKg_7jXgG5kHXjHsCLvLAeqEJ-qA8wG-DuvMx5cDHQmEp1RHRB3pj8bxbfrNy-UWX-HyWMhbV0Ld_a327oBU7ZhenLfgsXtQg4/s1600/PA230021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr7UXilZbF8aaHqKup2054XZTOCEmKjrsbNupAB-l3cOKg_7jXgG5kHXjHsCLvLAeqEJ-qA8wG-DuvMx5cDHQmEp1RHRB3pj8bxbfrNy-UWX-HyWMhbV0Ld_a327oBU7ZhenLfgsXtQg4/s1600/PA230021.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Dinner was brown rice, curried vegetables and smoked herring. It takes about twenty minutes to cook the rice and the vegetables in the pressure cooker. The rice gets cooked first then we open the cooker and throw in the carrots, onions or whatever, bring back up to pressure then stir in the smoked herring and serve. That was delicious. Then while we were eating we cooked a cobbler. We peeled the apples and tossed in a mixture of oats, dry milk, brown sugar, whole wheat flour, and cinnamon that Sally had prepared at home. We enjoyed a royal feast.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR6cEF90wmh3_FlHwiuhOmu69i33rqs-ppRp5UDHXJHjhlt7llnAnpoTcuMKnNhUFPwhDJM45GTL-V6V32bsxq3f9e2Sv6TJAOKKMlDTD9NpyMig1bBwjirJ9b91TVe_JNwAm_dmOdB8k/s1600/PA230022a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR6cEF90wmh3_FlHwiuhOmu69i33rqs-ppRp5UDHXJHjhlt7llnAnpoTcuMKnNhUFPwhDJM45GTL-V6V32bsxq3f9e2Sv6TJAOKKMlDTD9NpyMig1bBwjirJ9b91TVe_JNwAm_dmOdB8k/s1600/PA230022a.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqoUWYQM1ZAyPMM1dSrZVL9nek0W4asK_FYPB8-yNnYY67lAKS0EuT7G14ArIhHO6X8lkOhh3dLayW1KrA0g4dkoFVkw3lhGlooH_dbqTJQ3tXppBuKgol93EMCHJDZjknj9ZW2_9_VMk/s1600/PA230024a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqoUWYQM1ZAyPMM1dSrZVL9nek0W4asK_FYPB8-yNnYY67lAKS0EuT7G14ArIhHO6X8lkOhh3dLayW1KrA0g4dkoFVkw3lhGlooH_dbqTJQ3tXppBuKgol93EMCHJDZjknj9ZW2_9_VMk/s1600/PA230024a.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As the sun went down the mosquitos came out and I retreated into the cabin. We installed a screen on the hatch so we could have the ventilation necessary to keep condensation to a tolerable level.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9fy6jE6GZTRCFqeAPP5-e-JE-kvmsbiAVWKTRPPQpnyYLo367fe73zxWD58iLZE5kj-rAbONEtPNGZ5z58SCZYktINmZGwNbWgnX4o-bPV8u-heVVK6yUrXck6j6V6jhtJZOsdI8IuZQ/s1600/PA240067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9fy6jE6GZTRCFqeAPP5-e-JE-kvmsbiAVWKTRPPQpnyYLo367fe73zxWD58iLZE5kj-rAbONEtPNGZ5z58SCZYktINmZGwNbWgnX4o-bPV8u-heVVK6yUrXck6j6V6jhtJZOsdI8IuZQ/s1600/PA240067.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We read and studied charts and just relaxed for the evening. The night was the quietest I can ever remember on a boat. There were no halyards banging, nothing creaked, no water sloshed, slapped or gurgled, against the hull, there was no rocking, no sense of motion at all. It felt like the boat was set in molasses. It was quieter and more solid then last night when we slept on the trailer. I awoke in the middle of the night to check on things. When I looked out the portlights at first I could see nothing but darkness but then I could make out the silhouette of the marsh and I could see by the slowly moving lumps that the boat was gently swaying back and forth at her anchor. The motion so smooth it could not be perceived like the rotation of our planet as it hurls through space.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was up early and fixed some hot cereal. The sky was just beginning to lighten in the east. The wind was very light from the Northwest. It was too dark to sail so I weighed anchor and rowed and drifted. Our plan was to try and find the entrance to a different ditch that would take us to Dump Creek and then back to the Bay River. The entrance was off to the Southeast. So we just drifted and I rowed a little and watched the stars slowly fade.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRaYlPE1ZxLFhjEZxLBWBQYDHyHzjaloPcVUBTMvWp_PWbUQjg03kz9fJ12rOB0TEDAmMHIkXzZjqFwCD5aI6mh2pEdXrLP6X2Z3emB_gwaaUmcZYKQ5AxZvVaWiKJZlV5Sid66kFMPo/s1600/PA240030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRaYlPE1ZxLFhjEZxLBWBQYDHyHzjaloPcVUBTMvWp_PWbUQjg03kz9fJ12rOB0TEDAmMHIkXzZjqFwCD5aI6mh2pEdXrLP6X2Z3emB_gwaaUmcZYKQ5AxZvVaWiKJZlV5Sid66kFMPo/s1600/PA240030.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We found what we are calling the Dump Creek Ditch. Not very poetic, but that is it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEice8Ot2xBNgNJCZ35PJdmUti2iCA4PurQQGZnd0W1bWu3nkRhBU7f7-fVRWxrYJKj-vDPCtDcVmUVpQRNQV4Lme_4wtuvukMKNJdmEKZt-y_uTe-Fr2HcnsoQDBhA_7YPYcmBzBATqh-g/s1600/PA240050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEice8Ot2xBNgNJCZ35PJdmUti2iCA4PurQQGZnd0W1bWu3nkRhBU7f7-fVRWxrYJKj-vDPCtDcVmUVpQRNQV4Lme_4wtuvukMKNJdmEKZt-y_uTe-Fr2HcnsoQDBhA_7YPYcmBzBATqh-g/s1600/PA240050.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There was an eerie silence at our anchorage but as we entered the canal and the sun began to peep above the trees we were serenaded by redwing blackbirds that sang from the small trees and shrubs that lined the canal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/46jK1nQv4oA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am sure when they dug the ditches the muck was deposited right along side. This made for some higher drier ground and the narrow line of trees and shrubs that grow along side the canals.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYqcNRqh9ccyz2Q8HmhMV0PpuUy9lKT_6_6PVTz8fU6bHgtbjzL2QBmC26WV6QJAjyh96_7NeSM8wyXGEFuptd_hyphenhyphenuyvPG0tu6y6g2yhe2rSEM8FEMdGCUQgcn3FowcJSdsM8n4Hw9c1E/s1600/PA240061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYqcNRqh9ccyz2Q8HmhMV0PpuUy9lKT_6_6PVTz8fU6bHgtbjzL2QBmC26WV6QJAjyh96_7NeSM8wyXGEFuptd_hyphenhyphenuyvPG0tu6y6g2yhe2rSEM8FEMdGCUQgcn3FowcJSdsM8n4Hw9c1E/s1600/PA240061.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This one with the bright red berries is Yaupon, Ilex Vomitoria. Native Americans made a tea from the roasted leaves and twigs. It is the only North American plant that contains caffeine.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The canal slowly transitioned into the wider and meandering Dump Creek which brought us to the Bay River and a bit of culture shock. Coming up the Bay River was a tug pushing a huge barge. He looked like a tight fit for some parts of the ICW but that was where he was heading. Then a Coast Guard Helicopter and a 45 foot Response Boat exited Gale Creek followed by the snow birds. We felt like we needed to look both ways before proceeding up the Bay River.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRWGp8TfkvmRUHN-Tx1JFku_QbmcIvsYPJIx1uJNg5xn80Gb8TTZQbyYTCgN9I82PvJ2z_yDhWb6fPMZ3ixncs1nKY02l8s6Q39J823V1NQNx9KVsJ_d6J4nHe1dAoOzaVrLrc1vNPes/s1600/PA240072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRWGp8TfkvmRUHN-Tx1JFku_QbmcIvsYPJIx1uJNg5xn80Gb8TTZQbyYTCgN9I82PvJ2z_yDhWb6fPMZ3ixncs1nKY02l8s6Q39J823V1NQNx9KVsJ_d6J4nHe1dAoOzaVrLrc1vNPes/s1600/PA240072.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The chopper was practicing lowering a sling to a swimmer in the water. The swimmer would grab the sling and get lifted a dozen feet into the air then he would drop back into the water and chase after the sling again. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizajJBrjWJrcDUcuhXba2kSux7O6S9VOu700jT1pP9649l8Kn30gqbAsurb1vYHhyphenhyphen_TieuDseCref09YFt17DExgiVkRFA3UIksCi8XdvzxBQwxHYVyqfnUiA9kzuMtDw08Ekuih-8ZvQ/s1600/PA240078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizajJBrjWJrcDUcuhXba2kSux7O6S9VOu700jT1pP9649l8Kn30gqbAsurb1vYHhyphenhyphen_TieuDseCref09YFt17DExgiVkRFA3UIksCi8XdvzxBQwxHYVyqfnUiA9kzuMtDw08Ekuih-8ZvQ/s1600/PA240078.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPX5uksHoAJkGWPdbyJjlK-e0Z5qY5MN6PGicEDA9o7enWF9-94o0FmdD4ogykd7XUM9lRLIrUpspo3Ed4LxR35KAmSufJ037wv3hv1FB3ykrcBSoRdgkjSbTqttzBg9KmU9AdL1B8Bk/s1600/PA240084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPX5uksHoAJkGWPdbyJjlK-e0Z5qY5MN6PGicEDA9o7enWF9-94o0FmdD4ogykd7XUM9lRLIrUpspo3Ed4LxR35KAmSufJ037wv3hv1FB3ykrcBSoRdgkjSbTqttzBg9KmU9AdL1B8Bk/s1600/PA240084.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When we reached the mouth of Dump Creek the winds were light and the forecast was for 10-15 kts from the Northwest so we took the reefs out and raised all sail. We had a beautiful and quieter sail tacking up the Bay River and back to the dock at Chapel Creek for the BandB Messabout. Along the way we spotted a Bald Eagle!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAH7hEH7mft2aTtDVoGeOZV4Pb33F2-bLN4S2Km3n-7TnhnDJDfty90Gy8AWTeSpZMBrySZkeeIfskvdYjkJvl6wuObZuuSZPcBPoKjASFsfNthxDG49wqpz9FnMp4254vUelNiQ7g7o/s1600/20141026_111312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAH7hEH7mft2aTtDVoGeOZV4Pb33F2-bLN4S2Km3n-7TnhnDJDfty90Gy8AWTeSpZMBrySZkeeIfskvdYjkJvl6wuObZuuSZPcBPoKjASFsfNthxDG49wqpz9FnMp4254vUelNiQ7g7o/s1600/20141026_111312.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
Photo thanks to Doug Cameron<br />
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-36026356361678089652014-10-17T18:54:00.000-07:002014-10-20T13:21:19.758-07:00Capsize and RecoveryA small boat can capsize fairly easily. This is less likely if you are highly skilled and or very cautious, but it could still happen. Besides a lot of sailing fun can be had when you throw caution to the wind. So being able to get a boat back up on her feet and sailing again is an important skill. I have made a series of videos of my capsize and recovery practice. Perhaps I went a little overboard, but when I started kayaking, the first thing to do was to flip the boat and get used to capsizing and doing a wet exit. So here we go.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Reentry over the transom is less likely to recapsize the boat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggNoujAKaCYfQHDNxuzeMwjKKkJnkNFH1o8Z3V9JN8U1CiWdH6ij5v0NQ-Blybjt1M_RjK-dsolTHns6omokeaRqen9A4xi-cRsLaX0-IM5h6VNuCuMEAeQpc4pFfkg9tb4YWJzGAdi7I/s1600/Spindrift+10+Capsize+and+Recovery_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggNoujAKaCYfQHDNxuzeMwjKKkJnkNFH1o8Z3V9JN8U1CiWdH6ij5v0NQ-Blybjt1M_RjK-dsolTHns6omokeaRqen9A4xi-cRsLaX0-IM5h6VNuCuMEAeQpc4pFfkg9tb4YWJzGAdi7I/s1600/Spindrift+10+Capsize+and+Recovery_1.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/m9bsr7RT_H4">Capsize practice transom reentry</a><br />
<br />
<br />
I thought I would try reentering over the side. I could do it, but it probalbly wouldn't work in wind and waves unless a second person stabilized the boat.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRvpBzBmUdZMC6dwT_p4XGDSb8BMKHc3F9YffjeD6X4QdHR_eGor7gY8c5Hbdn956qkVSnV5NQIPJX8H_6xK6b4AWOsaUoP-elthLBiBCfnSr0EgRU8gAnVJ5XkRO33s9zEc_CLg9lmFM/s1600/Spindrift+side+reentery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRvpBzBmUdZMC6dwT_p4XGDSb8BMKHc3F9YffjeD6X4QdHR_eGor7gY8c5Hbdn956qkVSnV5NQIPJX8H_6xK6b4AWOsaUoP-elthLBiBCfnSr0EgRU8gAnVJ5XkRO33s9zEc_CLg9lmFM/s1600/Spindrift+side+reentery.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/cMLL5q8M4N4">Capsize practice side reentry</a><br />
<br />
I let the boat tip partially over to make it easier for Sally to reenter the boat. <br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/ah3HCGJfb4U">Capsize practice for two</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Finally I practiced a capsize recovery without a daggerboard.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9CQ4IUffg-YjBvaa-qBIyunBJAaPvbpdIqyxZ5x53vVGYIND6XUKQ6XO77EJkIrhA0tRQoWs8B8XGLTEEZw8FqhokCpZ5f3MLCEWrN_-KbmKXi-LZL4c4MXkaFMl2kr3o8LayoHLkHM4/s1600/Soindrift+recovery+with+flip+line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9CQ4IUffg-YjBvaa-qBIyunBJAaPvbpdIqyxZ5x53vVGYIND6XUKQ6XO77EJkIrhA0tRQoWs8B8XGLTEEZw8FqhokCpZ5f3MLCEWrN_-KbmKXi-LZL4c4MXkaFMl2kr3o8LayoHLkHM4/s1600/Soindrift+recovery+with+flip+line.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/KsdbF9VO5eM">Capsize and recovery without using a daggerboard</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-58897144702748332302014-08-22T06:40:00.001-07:002014-08-22T07:22:20.221-07:00Launch of the Spindrift 10At last my little boat is ready for the water. Sally is helping me make a few last minute preparations.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDEtWNscA4hADEv351OJtxdrhov_1Au6U33Kpy57I66RfRKVtpiVUUSbvE-ASgsWXU0OGXZUU2oWlX_9Ylh7o2GeRW-pAlMJaLBHG_C730T6T15C98SP_qdYWiDwiKvuPUhHvCuu9NDM/s1600/P8210004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDEtWNscA4hADEv351OJtxdrhov_1Au6U33Kpy57I66RfRKVtpiVUUSbvE-ASgsWXU0OGXZUU2oWlX_9Ylh7o2GeRW-pAlMJaLBHG_C730T6T15C98SP_qdYWiDwiKvuPUhHvCuu9NDM/s1600/P8210004.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-4rAuiRPivtjnUp1HnejHDYKJQ1dn3dpt6jgVJJIV_ioOQIw-cddQNX25JT7dg9Gs26Da55KrCKJBeLCpmVW6c1PVwjtNOQqz64L1oNk9PUZ1tybvOf63S_Wmo8Am1zv39l4JbCaKiU/s1600/P8220035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-4rAuiRPivtjnUp1HnejHDYKJQ1dn3dpt6jgVJJIV_ioOQIw-cddQNX25JT7dg9Gs26Da55KrCKJBeLCpmVW6c1PVwjtNOQqz64L1oNk9PUZ1tybvOf63S_Wmo8Am1zv39l4JbCaKiU/s1600/P8220035.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1dJt2bwvjUxcn2Fh1pwwAheDsRrw4c4UYLwwQRsI4NAGO_0Eu9CDer4x_HB3Z-LHgcbmfk-t4Rc_Wyhjrf4nr-qY3GOtNK-3zxFOcFCcXjH-p0t_CJTuX7Vkg3ER4USaBSOmEsNUw7Y4/s1600/P8220036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1dJt2bwvjUxcn2Fh1pwwAheDsRrw4c4UYLwwQRsI4NAGO_0Eu9CDer4x_HB3Z-LHgcbmfk-t4Rc_Wyhjrf4nr-qY3GOtNK-3zxFOcFCcXjH-p0t_CJTuX7Vkg3ER4USaBSOmEsNUw7Y4/s1600/P8220036.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaQPEp8N-73sWh8juVlUpRHawdg3pMj05e9AIA1FXa942jWBc31s2-yvwEGpxDbXqvTCNFYwUfJDE2OMwPwUMzROqp1JxcxM-EvNIsJktADnXoX2TXEZmt-uJlCuhjIOmbNTuuG7jwFfU/s1600/P8220037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaQPEp8N-73sWh8juVlUpRHawdg3pMj05e9AIA1FXa942jWBc31s2-yvwEGpxDbXqvTCNFYwUfJDE2OMwPwUMzROqp1JxcxM-EvNIsJktADnXoX2TXEZmt-uJlCuhjIOmbNTuuG7jwFfU/s1600/P8220037.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We always used an old wooden ladder to slide our ancient fiberglass dinghy into the water, but I built a wooden ramp that I hope will be easier on the back and the boat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqmSPuotHqJtnfbGiO_8vMTgNTKsR4RdMisJ6cAYiDQpygaYX2xv2pv0-e2gObz5UBYd75ED8sFCYxyPHAG_Ua9o6KjKTM3sv3Xa4qwSxpQD9fDSG2uvjw4R1XA8pk1fKT35A1ubjLGWI/s1600/P8210005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqmSPuotHqJtnfbGiO_8vMTgNTKsR4RdMisJ6cAYiDQpygaYX2xv2pv0-e2gObz5UBYd75ED8sFCYxyPHAG_Ua9o6KjKTM3sv3Xa4qwSxpQD9fDSG2uvjw4R1XA8pk1fKT35A1ubjLGWI/s1600/P8210005.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here we go down into the water.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH-H-ghjYq265vxsREETOX0ZbwI3KRJH_lE5nQ8dOYayKryfi6xCIfWKH-bYdrYaZ35VShlkkqklXw_tXYFIHeZ-_Bom7wv7o_f8oFfrgVw04sCk5OJIXSURjybJ6fsgFhKbSdQz0pqx0/s1600/P8210012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH-H-ghjYq265vxsREETOX0ZbwI3KRJH_lE5nQ8dOYayKryfi6xCIfWKH-bYdrYaZ35VShlkkqklXw_tXYFIHeZ-_Bom7wv7o_f8oFfrgVw04sCk5OJIXSURjybJ6fsgFhKbSdQz0pqx0/s1600/P8210012.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCSGgv_JlfbDhQZ27Nu08Fdf0hMfIGHGO-jQxH1BqMfv1572kuKMIgGKsCzDBj7M4CFk3qYPGgUj5JlFbLBTv8fiR443ruNsSoXV34pEwGvIKWBzVU9zYS2os2v7m5QIDBvtmv7AmhyphenhyphenBw/s1600/P8210015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCSGgv_JlfbDhQZ27Nu08Fdf0hMfIGHGO-jQxH1BqMfv1572kuKMIgGKsCzDBj7M4CFk3qYPGgUj5JlFbLBTv8fiR443ruNsSoXV34pEwGvIKWBzVU9zYS2os2v7m5QIDBvtmv7AmhyphenhyphenBw/s1600/P8210015.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I need to add a roller to the top but other than that the ramp worked very well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now off for a sail.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfGaKlXMH1uU1Mji09iLuSPmFpfldDpJ9oDteu1XW2LqbEgwfi_wDjlG0ursD1J9HRAkJwbHJI_WkYFYvRhQIgQmcRv-aNmXcrqV10PJM6l1ROBjxHwzCNCCg5D92z56VTa-iR7l81RXM/s1600/P8210017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfGaKlXMH1uU1Mji09iLuSPmFpfldDpJ9oDteu1XW2LqbEgwfi_wDjlG0ursD1J9HRAkJwbHJI_WkYFYvRhQIgQmcRv-aNmXcrqV10PJM6l1ROBjxHwzCNCCg5D92z56VTa-iR7l81RXM/s1600/P8210017.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After a day or so sailing around the pond the winds were light so I decided to do a capsize and recover practice and take a video. This is the first video I have uploaded to Youtube. The boat is fun to sail and quite stable but I want to sail confidently in strong winds far from shore so it is important to be able to right the boat and self rescue in the event of a knockdown. Stuff happens and it is fun to be prepared. Going over was a little scary at first but lots of fun in the end.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://youtu.be/m9bsr7RT_H4" target="_blank">http://youtu.be/m9bsr7RT_H4</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That was the standard reentry over the transom. It went really well for a first try. I was amazed at how high the boat floated on its side and how little water was in the boat after recovery.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://youtu.be/cMLL5q8M4N4" target="_blank">http://youtu.be/cMLL5q8M4N4</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I tried hopping up on the high side to recover the boat without getting wet but was unsuccessful. Then I reentered from the water over the side. This was trickier and brought in more water but took a little less strength.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://youtu.be/ah3HCGJfb4U" target="_blank">http://youtu.be/ah3HCGJfb4U</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Finally Sally joined in the fun.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-23239885771952974932014-08-02T12:48:00.000-07:002014-08-13T09:08:54.220-07:00Birdsmouth revisitedA few years ago I used the birdsmouth technique to make the upper sections of the masts for my EC22 Skorpa. I learned a lot and I thought it would be fun to put some of that experience to work building the upper section of the mast for my Spindrift 10. I will use eight strips of wood about 7 feet long by 3/4 inch wide and about 1/4 thick. I am using some Alaskan Yellow Cedar. Here you can see the table saw set up to make the birdsmouth cut. The finger boards help hold the flimsy strips, and insure even cuts.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJWtEedfqOWSPklxVNRS6zBxJCerm9whyoheRo4mmmhqWHKhdFx9aQF2mhlUq1l9FPZuf7A1MiHL20qe6q-Yyj8LlNN-wBCl1PzwhXkmKWFwe0NwYl-fd8l1MX1g7p7SAh-OKidbsUGQg/s1600/P5290050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJWtEedfqOWSPklxVNRS6zBxJCerm9whyoheRo4mmmhqWHKhdFx9aQF2mhlUq1l9FPZuf7A1MiHL20qe6q-Yyj8LlNN-wBCl1PzwhXkmKWFwe0NwYl-fd8l1MX1g7p7SAh-OKidbsUGQg/s1600/P5290050.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Below you can see my eight staves. One side has the notch or birdsmouth cut into it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-pnIhtFCRvvDKXif1ZdZ213GcF0YQ4QyAaWRU_XteLungueX7-2tcnlHHb3ZdJf055eOEy0bo-BLq4aSUOhNOV2YZW6B-Y1vytEz40DDyFaeSsxAI-YQWL7wLudGr3X8Kd3DqEKtIQ0/s1600/P6020054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-pnIhtFCRvvDKXif1ZdZ213GcF0YQ4QyAaWRU_XteLungueX7-2tcnlHHb3ZdJf055eOEy0bo-BLq4aSUOhNOV2YZW6B-Y1vytEz40DDyFaeSsxAI-YQWL7wLudGr3X8Kd3DqEKtIQ0/s1600/P6020054.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I screwed a series of blocks into my work table and used a string to make sure they were in line and at the same level. The first stave will be temporarily fastened to the blocks. This helps insure that the spar is glued up straight, and means you only have to wrestle seven glue covered staves into position.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigtYECudy9tYy8cxGDG2jJYV0ppvpQIPjMW5z5Th36FNrMe1nJt33X1CSeH4qn-AzvtGiiE9t58JzXUKBZIcMpu51gK6oEnyKmToTFC0AP-k2f3iF3lq-dnrlYVBaDIQayQyNtjdHGH1E/s1600/P6020052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigtYECudy9tYy8cxGDG2jJYV0ppvpQIPjMW5z5Th36FNrMe1nJt33X1CSeH4qn-AzvtGiiE9t58JzXUKBZIcMpu51gK6oEnyKmToTFC0AP-k2f3iF3lq-dnrlYVBaDIQayQyNtjdHGH1E/s1600/P6020052.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Some builders use hose clamps or zip ties to hold the staves together until the glue sets but I like to use old bicycle inner tubes like big rubber bands. I had to add some lead weights to convince the mast to lay down on the blocks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX6n12vOgOCJf9jH4Ao4K_8Ms1Ec4PiCQcK0riX5pxbxxM4IKzgnjJoQ2hIhB1YFfm9NSU66paj-zEYpE3euKysw5YaRS80w4Etd5M_pAvQcnIfSltrnsSMVHfcAQNley1PRI_O3FXyok/s1600/P6020062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX6n12vOgOCJf9jH4Ao4K_8Ms1Ec4PiCQcK0riX5pxbxxM4IKzgnjJoQ2hIhB1YFfm9NSU66paj-zEYpE3euKysw5YaRS80w4Etd5M_pAvQcnIfSltrnsSMVHfcAQNley1PRI_O3FXyok/s1600/P6020062.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Below is an end on view of the small end of the mast. I shaped a solid plug to fit inside of the mast where a sheave will go and to seal the end of the mast.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSwcwRq2wRVqMrmeEWfeTicpmZChP0QZ8Ux_H6fUxqbXJGpqRd3kSvfghSyJmp53e4HBNR71ZgtwRvoHA4ryMyfq32ZTbmyIIu7pON7GJiWQ4SjkAoiBK7FoAF5jh1n1qXcJOx3vuQrho/s1600/P6020061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSwcwRq2wRVqMrmeEWfeTicpmZChP0QZ8Ux_H6fUxqbXJGpqRd3kSvfghSyJmp53e4HBNR71ZgtwRvoHA4ryMyfq32ZTbmyIIu7pON7GJiWQ4SjkAoiBK7FoAF5jh1n1qXcJOx3vuQrho/s1600/P6020061.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The idea is that a hollow mast is almost as strong as a solid mast but much lighter because the wood in the center is not really doing much work. The thinner the wall the lighter but at some point you start to lose more strength than you save weight. The small size of the pieces makes the work a little finicky.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEaPhGMMzaqcQVt4TS6B9mx5EvHtXFzWLHRUqRlpBxzMJxQRkEGIhhyphenhyphenn-I6bHAtJOkrlQpgdiyuj_5yJP7natCDqb-HlR_Mx0qNsXzWx3RTuKjy2RmU4Yat_7dwzgrGhJkh0Ofo8x5DiM/s1600/P6020059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEaPhGMMzaqcQVt4TS6B9mx5EvHtXFzWLHRUqRlpBxzMJxQRkEGIhhyphenhyphenn-I6bHAtJOkrlQpgdiyuj_5yJP7natCDqb-HlR_Mx0qNsXzWx3RTuKjy2RmU4Yat_7dwzgrGhJkh0Ofo8x5DiM/s1600/P6020059.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I have a short piece that was cut off from Skorpa's mizzen mast for comparison. Saving weight aloft is important because it makes the boat more stable and if it should capsize the light mast will make the boat less likely to turn turtle. That is completely upside down.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnq0-dDGQLUOsBPc3GgTuSEywRBBH5Gf9HbgY7XIvBa8A6FS_9lcwGDDWURwNyYAemvuT6JS73is4NJKNlFn2Guu-EONgiTNobFClFYDYt_JE_Pe8MY9Ci6hAEl4qt2i_MPJ_jARbKm34/s1600/P6020065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnq0-dDGQLUOsBPc3GgTuSEywRBBH5Gf9HbgY7XIvBa8A6FS_9lcwGDDWURwNyYAemvuT6JS73is4NJKNlFn2Guu-EONgiTNobFClFYDYt_JE_Pe8MY9Ci6hAEl4qt2i_MPJ_jARbKm34/s1600/P6020065.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Now I use a plane and sanding board to turn the octagonal cylinder into a round cylinder. I forgot to tell you that after I cut the birdsmouth notches in the staves I tapered each stave so it was only about 1/2 inch wide at the upper end. This produced a tapered hollow wooden cylinder.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxAm0MmWYqs76bqUTT9EHpg5QEOehHASPVG_k20CwsAt4LggHAhQZ9axS36rFnppwSjuArBTyOqWGtYN9xxXV4wclsGDWOH1YXqaMvykxDYYE5BcMfDleSHx0OV_HfcQEizA59ULPDQw/s1600/P6040069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxAm0MmWYqs76bqUTT9EHpg5QEOehHASPVG_k20CwsAt4LggHAhQZ9axS36rFnppwSjuArBTyOqWGtYN9xxXV4wclsGDWOH1YXqaMvykxDYYE5BcMfDleSHx0OV_HfcQEizA59ULPDQw/s1600/P6040069.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvfH1LkJg0uSZ-YRm2RisJIaLMiIpx81wcVqWttaDTZk_UHEyrOU6DRvWFIiv3nhw0yLJI2nLx1GS9OzXZaBLYgxk-nUmLLkYcjPWByOCU81AzNtUQ90wcyB8Qucks4K_sWF3iBC6BAA/s1600/P6040070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvfH1LkJg0uSZ-YRm2RisJIaLMiIpx81wcVqWttaDTZk_UHEyrOU6DRvWFIiv3nhw0yLJI2nLx1GS9OzXZaBLYgxk-nUmLLkYcjPWByOCU81AzNtUQ90wcyB8Qucks4K_sWF3iBC6BAA/s1600/P6040070.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8pH4mfWse3wEJIryzJxdlzzErYTgUvdZSog0KuPvb84SuKqGTEsV6rOFNCxinGLtAsQ83J76ETbUtwCPhNG35w5C06xAXoSTixHaDnkrDKKR9lWMGYI6_a0XGoSzBjgcmKkTWa6Fq5iA/s1600/P6040071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8pH4mfWse3wEJIryzJxdlzzErYTgUvdZSog0KuPvb84SuKqGTEsV6rOFNCxinGLtAsQ83J76ETbUtwCPhNG35w5C06xAXoSTixHaDnkrDKKR9lWMGYI6_a0XGoSzBjgcmKkTWa6Fq5iA/s1600/P6040071.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
At the top I cut out an opening for a masthead sheave. The halyard will run through this so I can raise sail.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOFtHdEuq_cmmVMV8UNHPciV3j8P3ptw-4FTi1QCv21RtWftbqfEN5kBvCKQZzL4qn8wIfTae7X_cdfQkG9MZ59E4HfwgJqb7KpRPfEeksI7U7OQkVT70WllVPQRpG844a1JdVz9qayy0/s1600/P6110073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOFtHdEuq_cmmVMV8UNHPciV3j8P3ptw-4FTi1QCv21RtWftbqfEN5kBvCKQZzL4qn8wIfTae7X_cdfQkG9MZ59E4HfwgJqb7KpRPfEeksI7U7OQkVT70WllVPQRpG844a1JdVz9qayy0/s1600/P6110073.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjutFFwuy1VtD7l4qCoyLLl1GFBCUOkdHOK43YgrZ03-cssfcS_TET_f6e272kl-yP4SrFYRuwnyBIfF6tKNAA44i_GrBP4cO3vMvS34KU8lBXq-15kEtr215uK9unFUXiciZd8_X1eqf8/s1600/P6110074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjutFFwuy1VtD7l4qCoyLLl1GFBCUOkdHOK43YgrZ03-cssfcS_TET_f6e272kl-yP4SrFYRuwnyBIfF6tKNAA44i_GrBP4cO3vMvS34KU8lBXq-15kEtr215uK9unFUXiciZd8_X1eqf8/s1600/P6110074.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I shaped a small plug to seal the lower end of the spar so no water can get in.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmdyWB3pUoS7r26st5hpKRa3FjWfwQ9-74m58iP8L2ihQuOhNqYepqQtJNMEJrcJkycRgmlhLVu-yHw2BiScCFvL3V1PNSkvRAHDIL3TN5BHCLZNCvfx07eBKqXckYB0BwZCrAbqXHY4/s1600/P6110075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmdyWB3pUoS7r26st5hpKRa3FjWfwQ9-74m58iP8L2ihQuOhNqYepqQtJNMEJrcJkycRgmlhLVu-yHw2BiScCFvL3V1PNSkvRAHDIL3TN5BHCLZNCvfx07eBKqXckYB0BwZCrAbqXHY4/s1600/P6110075.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This six foot wooden spar section fits together with two aluminum pieces to make a total mast length of nearly 17 feet. The aluminum is stiffer and is used at the base where that is needed. The hollow wooden spar is lighter than the aluminum and stiffness is not so important in the upper section.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-56641676430272741232014-07-27T17:23:00.000-07:002014-07-27T17:32:46.755-07:00This is really a very big little boat.I have an idea why it is taking me so long to get this little Spindrift in the water. This ten foot boat has a rudder, a centerboard, a centerboard case, a mast, boom, tiller, everything that a much bigger sail boat has. True each piece is a little smaller, but that does not really save that much time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpPaok0nssvD4HMFqnDGFa23E7pcjGMySe0gVmmFF0op0JQh-0rMdHy6Mj8MS6i03DQrHrr9tNiI1UkeJfnh1ddv7MkF1ftWC5x08ZWx__QCW6NFIJPR3v5mYV-pe4pjRettSnuqMUGdo/s1600/P6200078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpPaok0nssvD4HMFqnDGFa23E7pcjGMySe0gVmmFF0op0JQh-0rMdHy6Mj8MS6i03DQrHrr9tNiI1UkeJfnh1ddv7MkF1ftWC5x08ZWx__QCW6NFIJPR3v5mYV-pe4pjRettSnuqMUGdo/s1600/P6200078.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The interior of the boat is nearly finished so I flipped the boat and rolled it outside to begin finishing the exterior. Along the chine you can see the tabs that help key the side and bottom panels together. This area needs to be smoothed and rounded over.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxFwSxDC22lre4M8EbikoDQ4jDHLWBS9afvHIPWwcSrSa2u9xQXn296pudrBpD6rENQauQh5woUYippDy7q72LEk_YA1WYw0kwpn38s5EQKaXzkDYuUUBmKkTbZ6vQnn6Dmt-tfKG4Do/s1600/P6200079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxFwSxDC22lre4M8EbikoDQ4jDHLWBS9afvHIPWwcSrSa2u9xQXn296pudrBpD6rENQauQh5woUYippDy7q72LEk_YA1WYw0kwpn38s5EQKaXzkDYuUUBmKkTbZ6vQnn6Dmt-tfKG4Do/s1600/P6200079.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The hand plane and long board do the job fairly easily. I just have to be careful to keep the chine smooth and even.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugqxF1k6Ly_qASXSXvmN4mxJbpyEKou6bYyB-aC2FhaDosn57f5q76Ru9sSU_GJM0GDEMQ8rHNMTUG1MwjRrU-vWaiNr6qoGouXWIjn449y-K8VzkJRDVvCRWIXTMgVTOdiuRvXvGb0E/s1600/P6200081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugqxF1k6Ly_qASXSXvmN4mxJbpyEKou6bYyB-aC2FhaDosn57f5q76Ru9sSU_GJM0GDEMQ8rHNMTUG1MwjRrU-vWaiNr6qoGouXWIjn449y-K8VzkJRDVvCRWIXTMgVTOdiuRvXvGb0E/s1600/P6200081.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Once the chine is smooth and fair it is ready for fiberglass tape.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1cGxj9FryuZ5YyYpojenct0eXRYQiVLJv6UousFhBUEPGyt5VBlzCmE210uMqVzVuONC5CFCqVuP-C4L2kagqBWHYbizUUSwCjibCfWaHpGAGRUlBBjSx0QBMOYfpb1S371kZK0m9oM/s1600/P6200077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1cGxj9FryuZ5YyYpojenct0eXRYQiVLJv6UousFhBUEPGyt5VBlzCmE210uMqVzVuONC5CFCqVuP-C4L2kagqBWHYbizUUSwCjibCfWaHpGAGRUlBBjSx0QBMOYfpb1S371kZK0m9oM/s1600/P6200077.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
The hull has two openings one for the dagger board and one for the bailer. Holes drilled from the inside allow me to locate and cut out the openings from the outside.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpATJ_Z5GTb2TznRfZx2FaM8Eqs3BgfPDqwplrtcMd4IPRz75yopivHVJIIAl5liLrlpMspwpUTezk8W4YI5-tsaxVmIw6Bv_vcYRh-hzkRH1Y_5d25mS9lZVVu4Tq71H5Mofru2XiAY/s1600/P6200082.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpATJ_Z5GTb2TznRfZx2FaM8Eqs3BgfPDqwplrtcMd4IPRz75yopivHVJIIAl5liLrlpMspwpUTezk8W4YI5-tsaxVmIw6Bv_vcYRh-hzkRH1Y_5d25mS9lZVVu4Tq71H5Mofru2XiAY/s1600/P6200082.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I use a router with a round over bit to shape the edges of the dagger board case.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6s2cxWhKYnnd_2Lv1NUgaQn0LACCt-Flva3uygZVIZ1aTBVtCZK3XBMZIS1pfFSN6JIwiIDUWCeq7Z8WQeGAA0JUNE7hXzu8m6-Yo6h0gUtcPkzDKz6U8nYjvEYPPIyXXRKxK7bc4Kes/s1600/P6200083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6s2cxWhKYnnd_2Lv1NUgaQn0LACCt-Flva3uygZVIZ1aTBVtCZK3XBMZIS1pfFSN6JIwiIDUWCeq7Z8WQeGAA0JUNE7hXzu8m6-Yo6h0gUtcPkzDKz6U8nYjvEYPPIyXXRKxK7bc4Kes/s1600/P6200083.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here I am applying fiberglass tape to the rounded chine. You can see some tape reinforcing the joint between the dagger board case and hull.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQhxzj-4AS-qAqfu8IHbYGwyLoULUseyDPwqV84UTOK_J9e7wC03utNrGFZPBlpC-QCloRdl2XCV746eb6Wxy6hfDmjg5f3-2W0TnzWGCfoTLkR3__ZhZc1TOj9vLaO84i5LwDPtKp-4/s1600/P6250094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQhxzj-4AS-qAqfu8IHbYGwyLoULUseyDPwqV84UTOK_J9e7wC03utNrGFZPBlpC-QCloRdl2XCV746eb6Wxy6hfDmjg5f3-2W0TnzWGCfoTLkR3__ZhZc1TOj9vLaO84i5LwDPtKp-4/s1600/P6250094.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrZ6CWkDGO5i3tvzXMDoxHQZAP_CaIVVCRqAhPj4H_-gESwlSR9y_NXVgSt0sXiHmAgiVgEXx2EhpUXWU7e0u2ii5MXFqZ6iZhZeLB8qIbmMEHutmpK6fiaHE871cxXi8iDNumu_fh58/s1600/P6250097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrZ6CWkDGO5i3tvzXMDoxHQZAP_CaIVVCRqAhPj4H_-gESwlSR9y_NXVgSt0sXiHmAgiVgEXx2EhpUXWU7e0u2ii5MXFqZ6iZhZeLB8qIbmMEHutmpK6fiaHE871cxXi8iDNumu_fh58/s1600/P6250097.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I wet out the fiberglass tape before unrolling the tape onto the chine, then I went over the tape with a brush to make sure the tape was fully wet out. I am being careful to not apply excess epoxy because that will run down and harden in globs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmAgJZzhmf5V5qHVvlh_qHMkSveA00LRj4KIUyddVPW16AHbPMgh9Qrh9aPfZV2mzCtFw4FhbHUNnhtIqzGiXPAvvNuv8eFjVkl7le0KvzBnY96b6rvfmJvh1UFynY2AJP9DO8QsNb3iI/s1600/P6250100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmAgJZzhmf5V5qHVvlh_qHMkSveA00LRj4KIUyddVPW16AHbPMgh9Qrh9aPfZV2mzCtFw4FhbHUNnhtIqzGiXPAvvNuv8eFjVkl7le0KvzBnY96b6rvfmJvh1UFynY2AJP9DO8QsNb3iI/s1600/P6250100.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNHmyofAtMDSxXPidNjHKOYa9M_hBNezHKwYFb7WQFOntgz7ViUsZMjCixzuDe1lvUEpGmSchCzGmOEskSG2T-UOqA_-uQoQKtjv_nfYuaJMl9ybM68xQ_7JIlGw6nfE4vfesRPGGDJ18/s1600/P6250103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNHmyofAtMDSxXPidNjHKOYa9M_hBNezHKwYFb7WQFOntgz7ViUsZMjCixzuDe1lvUEpGmSchCzGmOEskSG2T-UOqA_-uQoQKtjv_nfYuaJMl9ybM68xQ_7JIlGw6nfE4vfesRPGGDJ18/s1600/P6250103.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
After fiber glass tape was applied on the chines and down the centerline I coated the entire hull with two coats of epoxy. Thin as possible to minimize runs.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wyaKbU0ef1_BN6AcevgidYjzCnn5joBj39VSxgMPO8c8v5bACqvtelVP0feH4udVQzldt47BHo613-_EPjB41swRQSdDRe_CaALJnqUJFz21WkQ0N4_wX-be8H48q3nZOCt7VQg04aM/s1600/P6250107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wyaKbU0ef1_BN6AcevgidYjzCnn5joBj39VSxgMPO8c8v5bACqvtelVP0feH4udVQzldt47BHo613-_EPjB41swRQSdDRe_CaALJnqUJFz21WkQ0N4_wX-be8H48q3nZOCt7VQg04aM/s1600/P6250107.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFYRwYHatoVRJUS83446VDFGpuYvC5CqZQAlO4gddfcFMy2IHiaOFYDFMUx3clrGg-dBoiRAKcWavc0V6IIP040AiXbMFKiqEYhMbJILQJOx9XpfdaRl4lEGGvOtvk-hpglhUEuwj4nGw/s1600/P6260108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFYRwYHatoVRJUS83446VDFGpuYvC5CqZQAlO4gddfcFMy2IHiaOFYDFMUx3clrGg-dBoiRAKcWavc0V6IIP040AiXbMFKiqEYhMbJILQJOx9XpfdaRl4lEGGvOtvk-hpglhUEuwj4nGw/s1600/P6260108.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The edges of the tape need to be smoothed down and faired into the rest of the hull. Graham does not recommend putting any more glass on the exterior of the hull, but I decided to cover the hull with a layer of very light fiberglass cloth.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTSoUfVoplsSWm_BLXQX7Skk-8jA71prnA-42rq5LDnYC981drkuOi_7yaYyWlMlH5XXTMP-DgNPPwI7rA70bzgb7MZFQHEsdAI74X7lca7j1ANutR5nShrR4pb7V1OVeDnj6Ck0N4Y0g/s1600/P7100109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTSoUfVoplsSWm_BLXQX7Skk-8jA71prnA-42rq5LDnYC981drkuOi_7yaYyWlMlH5XXTMP-DgNPPwI7rA70bzgb7MZFQHEsdAI74X7lca7j1ANutR5nShrR4pb7V1OVeDnj6Ck0N4Y0g/s1600/P7100109.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
A squeegee works well to spread the epoxy and work it into the weave on flat surfaces.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrsDJAhD7kbbMvl24Tmrv1XcB6Np94rP7KbiMnEHG225BB6yiYg_nhPJzjLzBP10rknh3GYVu6bnSOpRE_ID9XSdRnoQFSkywFbhyphenhyphenytf6Sh6pl-y8BQRGbYoR7R7rGOD__p191OHwaJkk/s1600/P7100112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrsDJAhD7kbbMvl24Tmrv1XcB6Np94rP7KbiMnEHG225BB6yiYg_nhPJzjLzBP10rknh3GYVu6bnSOpRE_ID9XSdRnoQFSkywFbhyphenhyphenytf6Sh6pl-y8BQRGbYoR7R7rGOD__p191OHwaJkk/s1600/P7100112.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYe-DnxdedEXdx-vWKJ0cJDV62JT4J3xSerbLYCTlqIVWwdxbI-xSg8HyHbgbEO9mPQ5_DgO30p3tVBaHfJFVPG9VgVTlmVJrd8KqY711QzciVAz8FT6rVZ0xf9AUSetCUUWxT_r7fcJI/s1600/P7100115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYe-DnxdedEXdx-vWKJ0cJDV62JT4J3xSerbLYCTlqIVWwdxbI-xSg8HyHbgbEO9mPQ5_DgO30p3tVBaHfJFVPG9VgVTlmVJrd8KqY711QzciVAz8FT6rVZ0xf9AUSetCUUWxT_r7fcJI/s1600/P7100115.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
On vertical surfaces you have to apply a thin even layer of epoxy. The roller is best for this.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitSCzYju6ffmGtZBJvrNUjZcZiqfhQOJ4CZAkjNtzyUIN7xWQ1DhCY_BRJT2PdSiPNOUSGFdShTt6PwSPNjnPRV-CvxdqhsanZPf9IMX3tQhPPD7DHcAY6WfZ8sEAuv7UR7s2zjVYPjQk/s1600/P7100118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitSCzYju6ffmGtZBJvrNUjZcZiqfhQOJ4CZAkjNtzyUIN7xWQ1DhCY_BRJT2PdSiPNOUSGFdShTt6PwSPNjnPRV-CvxdqhsanZPf9IMX3tQhPPD7DHcAY6WfZ8sEAuv7UR7s2zjVYPjQk/s1600/P7100118.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The roller leaves lot of little air bubbles so I go over the entire surface lightly with a foam brush. Epoxy does not like to lay smoothly but the smoother you can get it the less sanding latter.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil70AcZmdtJowdMvlJWq4frOAUq6ULuB3aZvqI-5rbgmD_TTesM8m5PCCRFgWuaDDYFGDg83mCBD3HrwI7SwAUL3KMMeb_qz0OJok7d97yj153pzzREwl_wNRvLYkx1Sgm7zGJSYYh7Jo/s1600/P7100123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil70AcZmdtJowdMvlJWq4frOAUq6ULuB3aZvqI-5rbgmD_TTesM8m5PCCRFgWuaDDYFGDg83mCBD3HrwI7SwAUL3KMMeb_qz0OJok7d97yj153pzzREwl_wNRvLYkx1Sgm7zGJSYYh7Jo/s1600/P7100123.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The thin cloth becomes transparent when wet out and you can see through to the plywood. You can also see the purple. Phenolic microballons makes the fairing mixture easier to sand. </div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-1049347950517822062014-04-16T12:23:00.003-07:002014-05-18T04:06:41.354-07:00April on the Pamlico<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We started our Spring trip in North Creek which is located near the mouth of the Pamlico River in eastern North Carolina. Here our boat is tied up at a friends dock.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Yq612CIoujOqSNBeZegQxF6sR1mR7y7p1kpsUAWyIo6kZJyR4NTOktOJ6idF5jpKVOlf6eTSP92gEx7vpxSpl0U-2I9ZAN9iOxTH56wKufOTO6siReJNHfnWrX5UUzu0FQrdYNW_Z5U/s1600/P4110062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Yq612CIoujOqSNBeZegQxF6sR1mR7y7p1kpsUAWyIo6kZJyR4NTOktOJ6idF5jpKVOlf6eTSP92gEx7vpxSpl0U-2I9ZAN9iOxTH56wKufOTO6siReJNHfnWrX5UUzu0FQrdYNW_Z5U/s1600/P4110062.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I took this photo the morning after our return everything is pretty quiet. That was not the case when we left the dock on Wednesday morning. I was debating how much to reef when a gust of wind came through and I opted for sailing out under mizzen alone. We were not in a race. This early in the season the water is quite cold so I thought it best to be cautious. Sally was also more comfortable with less sail up. As we headed down the Pamlico toward Judith Island the wind freshened and then eased and sometimes a strong gust seemed to come out of nowhere. The wind was from the North West and we made 5 to 6 knots even with only the mizzen up. Here Sally is taking a turn at the tiller.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTI4jQb2EhO7pag_UHYUztB9pT97GKbTagc1wU0kTkiL2uahGyCi-2VN-3O6CBU8adtunmZ96gp2qTTmkSxAd0c9aP0mNKmGqYLTWbMfRsABxfUbYMOdQY84bKojwDeCyuevKSIAXePE/s1600/P4090019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTI4jQb2EhO7pag_UHYUztB9pT97GKbTagc1wU0kTkiL2uahGyCi-2VN-3O6CBU8adtunmZ96gp2qTTmkSxAd0c9aP0mNKmGqYLTWbMfRsABxfUbYMOdQY84bKojwDeCyuevKSIAXePE/s1600/P4090019.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
As we sailed down the Pamlico we spotted a huge flock of birds a mile or so ahead and to the south of us. They were moving North and as we got closer it became apparant we would be sailing right through the huge flock. I would say around a thousand birds,cormorants, terns, gulls, a smaller diving bird maybe a grebe and the occasional pelican It was a mad chaotic feeding frenzy. The terns wheeled and dove from above, the diving birds would surface then take off in a rush to reenter the water near the front of the school of bait fish that remained invisible to us. The air had a distinctly fishy smell as we passed through and I was grateful that we did not catch a cormorant in our sails.<br />
<br />
Judith Island is a huge area of marsh composed of spartina grass and a few shrubs but no trees and no high ground. Because it is so low it is invisible from more than a couple of miles away even in clear weather. When we reached the mouth of Rose Bay we hove to and switched from mizzen alone to double reefed main and mizzen. Skorpa does not tack or head up wind very well on mizzen only and I wanted the extra maneuverability in order to sail through Judith Narrows and into Shell Bay. As we got with in a mile we could see the edges of the grassy island but it was very difficult to distinguish features that would locate our position. The GPS was a big help here.<br />
<br />
We sailed easily through Judith Narrows, which actually seemed quite wide, into Shell Bay I began looking around for a possible anchorage. The area felt a little exposed so we hauled our sails in tight and made for the cut leading into Deep Bay. We made the cut and started tacking up to the north side of Deep Bay where the chart showed a promising creek winding into the marsh.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGQGi0l8N-38UHZWRtk2vBAUSumniY8j71fnQLD4Yi9AwVa7H4TJPuVfp6eO9yXRa68VnmrepIJcem5Y8wtBsEXhsuOn8JvY2KOkuz3g0E2N1KQBbzu2reES3OEZLZTalwT1pZuFs9ww/s1600/P4090020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGQGi0l8N-38UHZWRtk2vBAUSumniY8j71fnQLD4Yi9AwVa7H4TJPuVfp6eO9yXRa68VnmrepIJcem5Y8wtBsEXhsuOn8JvY2KOkuz3g0E2N1KQBbzu2reES3OEZLZTalwT1pZuFs9ww/s1600/P4090020.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We dropped anchor in a quiet spot when after several attempts we could go no further. The water had shoaled to a depth of about a foot. We dropped back to the deeper water to anchor and left some room to swing as the wind was predicted to shift during the night. We started cooking our rice and vegetables in the cockpit because it was so beautiful, but the mosquitoes and flies eventually drove us into the cabin. We installed screens on the door and hatch and soon had a bug free zone. The boat was noisy for a while during the night when the wind switched to the southeast and blew in across Deep Bay, but then it moved back to the west and grew quiet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnOQRrk0ZK-0kmwRJV_T55gsULS_9VVQP0Xr3umatC9DiyZPHXTfrkFtYZ951RaNQ3Rz_es3zLtOAW6JE6Vp_kMAgTIelpPxhixNGoSJxbtMc_0RnrbrXeiwKu8AGpdCACJkyUZ700M4/s1600/P4100024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnOQRrk0ZK-0kmwRJV_T55gsULS_9VVQP0Xr3umatC9DiyZPHXTfrkFtYZ951RaNQ3Rz_es3zLtOAW6JE6Vp_kMAgTIelpPxhixNGoSJxbtMc_0RnrbrXeiwKu8AGpdCACJkyUZ700M4/s1600/P4100024.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
We had hot cereal for breakfast. Made from a seven grain mixture purchased at the co-op this takes a few minutes to cook, but we much prefer it to quicker breakfasts as long as we have the time. After eating I was anxious to be underway. Why???? Sally was not quite ready so I decided to row over the shallows to see if we could find the head of this creek.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Dhk-zdL1xk9VgupZuXAfLs4Xd4TpcXS8XR4LIN8y_mLwbU8BBVBCPJKuEX34kZruQ2MGtxT31W3TEFYm1OLEExSOvVHIHMrLashiyLJUfzwt5vwtJTD3Tj1cyzcQmqrMtnY818dijgg/s1600/P4100027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Dhk-zdL1xk9VgupZuXAfLs4Xd4TpcXS8XR4LIN8y_mLwbU8BBVBCPJKuEX34kZruQ2MGtxT31W3TEFYm1OLEExSOvVHIHMrLashiyLJUfzwt5vwtJTD3Tj1cyzcQmqrMtnY818dijgg/s1600/P4100027.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNFc-3lFR6Ke1_Yg6d5CGunQ0qkKyDmdU3iBh5gGGrylnyRwVitUjxrr-07GH4Sv80id-WluZVInWnO9KYwcn8EpnL8jwfI1MiVg6c3GUT2zBRktFAdl9JWN8cnkH75BLC6pm_siyCNG0/s1600/P4100029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNFc-3lFR6Ke1_Yg6d5CGunQ0qkKyDmdU3iBh5gGGrylnyRwVitUjxrr-07GH4Sv80id-WluZVInWnO9KYwcn8EpnL8jwfI1MiVg6c3GUT2zBRktFAdl9JWN8cnkH75BLC6pm_siyCNG0/s1600/P4100029.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHFHHExpfde3aHTNzfzP5yFDoxlLYmB_wxpTJD6Si18xDI4NiB5fwcI4Rh3Au-03RzF8-IyWsgu8tlHgPjkm2ulA1pqgrYOLnPSG1pfpvsxVy2DSoPsBJh38Yj1U631N1VmEoAaJuL9A/s1600/P4100034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHFHHExpfde3aHTNzfzP5yFDoxlLYmB_wxpTJD6Si18xDI4NiB5fwcI4Rh3Au-03RzF8-IyWsgu8tlHgPjkm2ulA1pqgrYOLnPSG1pfpvsxVy2DSoPsBJh38Yj1U631N1VmEoAaJuL9A/s1600/P4100034.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLqqhi8a7xTnIcEXA7D8E5uCSErU-GuKap5pdSw9du8QaLacWzrsEez3K71Zw1QTOyIeJkZAavdwp9XR-RRx9mB19KfBVWM02goqlAzt8K2P6gzDIsjHyJ3B_W_Rxt_CJW7EFcPxeOJc/s1600/P4100037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLqqhi8a7xTnIcEXA7D8E5uCSErU-GuKap5pdSw9du8QaLacWzrsEez3K71Zw1QTOyIeJkZAavdwp9XR-RRx9mB19KfBVWM02goqlAzt8K2P6gzDIsjHyJ3B_W_Rxt_CJW7EFcPxeOJc/s1600/P4100037.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCiQVv9HV4k2xVzEmM75cuOLlteMrY1RmnQZUQGk_-mO6vb0H9hB1Gh4odxlxAvweVMs-lCxeF-lI0FVQlFQKDEREzYAY41yStsmuJlP8k4roODO98dwRsarC8sOi_7Ao__4RtwR3n32g/s1600/P4100038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCiQVv9HV4k2xVzEmM75cuOLlteMrY1RmnQZUQGk_-mO6vb0H9hB1Gh4odxlxAvweVMs-lCxeF-lI0FVQlFQKDEREzYAY41yStsmuJlP8k4roODO98dwRsarC8sOi_7Ao__4RtwR3n32g/s1600/P4100038.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I love exploring areas like this. How far does the creek go and where does it lead? My oars from tip to tip are about 22 feet so we got to a point where we decided to turn around.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJWvlRbDQ_nPjV4GtfK1AmtT-YnQKszJd-poNyxhuQUe0t5q62bp01KXW_ZyZ46jut_iVZlC8nPG_cPSAjt1WpzC80FRnv-knutRENQlEubHRkh-9yZenalSG4DBjboFTAJOh4nLtExWk/s1600/P4100039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJWvlRbDQ_nPjV4GtfK1AmtT-YnQKszJd-poNyxhuQUe0t5q62bp01KXW_ZyZ46jut_iVZlC8nPG_cPSAjt1WpzC80FRnv-knutRENQlEubHRkh-9yZenalSG4DBjboFTAJOh4nLtExWk/s1600/P4100039.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhngfbIqOBQVRdp6noEa_-2sxBoroeRxjTjsjcqBUsQDEXFumc85Teo0gNeakWCY-fJawtAFq-VezftnsMwliQHX9c-igidoE6QPt82NEGYWTnb0aFKnhnmznuXcvwur_b6sf7ZwNSydO0/s1600/P4100040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhngfbIqOBQVRdp6noEa_-2sxBoroeRxjTjsjcqBUsQDEXFumc85Teo0gNeakWCY-fJawtAFq-VezftnsMwliQHX9c-igidoE6QPt82NEGYWTnb0aFKnhnmznuXcvwur_b6sf7ZwNSydO0/s1600/P4100040.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Sally took the oars for awhile as we headed back out towards deeper water.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubC2ExBmSwbRx_-a8pWH4CyTiZuVAF4OoJRtZTuxVAuSpz-3BQSgZPLa1iReP01fQd8-PVOVUYJRrtdXaFlr0AF6KNM0oFN_5YMAhirjYu5W-I8H4imtiW8hb5l4ggVv6AJyv2TDADM0/s1600/P4100041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubC2ExBmSwbRx_-a8pWH4CyTiZuVAF4OoJRtZTuxVAuSpz-3BQSgZPLa1iReP01fQd8-PVOVUYJRrtdXaFlr0AF6KNM0oFN_5YMAhirjYu5W-I8H4imtiW8hb5l4ggVv6AJyv2TDADM0/s1600/P4100041.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We headed across Deep Bay for the cut that would lead to Swan Quarter. When we got to the cut we noticed a 2kt current running against us. The wind was light and almost dead astern. I pulled the main across to windward in a technique know as sailing by the lee. This put both sails in clear air and gave us the extra power we needed to make good progress against the current.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZa1m4eK1XJo8iAp_VNcQSI4J1efxMnTZyMJoNKPAomAfhvWsFTa0GlhvIzUKscBOLmZ8U5YDNUoTAUZEObiig0WNecMNJ_M-nmp6sJjbpnKDHKdlPZR7GZShM7dJ18iNmLa-p-P8sJEQ/s1600/P4100044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZa1m4eK1XJo8iAp_VNcQSI4J1efxMnTZyMJoNKPAomAfhvWsFTa0GlhvIzUKscBOLmZ8U5YDNUoTAUZEObiig0WNecMNJ_M-nmp6sJjbpnKDHKdlPZR7GZShM7dJ18iNmLa-p-P8sJEQ/s1600/P4100044.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik1i__o9OZhM81aJY7JCUZIYeoTnK-2laoIyVuPwcb1-weqOzYlEGxVq-vgcsbf6Ecl8PJeyTEjL0W0wSs4KCEBnWrITNFEZFyBK9DenJBw4Y096DdTHxxKV3d1o7kaZ2gFWbMAQiHgC8/s1600/P4100047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik1i__o9OZhM81aJY7JCUZIYeoTnK-2laoIyVuPwcb1-weqOzYlEGxVq-vgcsbf6Ecl8PJeyTEjL0W0wSs4KCEBnWrITNFEZFyBK9DenJBw4Y096DdTHxxKV3d1o7kaZ2gFWbMAQiHgC8/s1600/P4100047.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGYrZRbJgr98nmhRLyHcSVPFmjqA8au-DLHlDKWLrI87AI3HJGDDu6eSmjx6BdSfOwHXGSmJckZZB4-q-P_giLLDaDjnvPNqpTTa8wpWmfw48vFOGfJLwR5m81RhjS1JgDVGJmrqFF3o/s1600/P4100049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGYrZRbJgr98nmhRLyHcSVPFmjqA8au-DLHlDKWLrI87AI3HJGDDu6eSmjx6BdSfOwHXGSmJckZZB4-q-P_giLLDaDjnvPNqpTTa8wpWmfw48vFOGfJLwR5m81RhjS1JgDVGJmrqFF3o/s1600/P4100049.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This put us in a position to reach Swan Quarter. The ferry to Ocracoke lands here but this is the first time Sally and I have been to Swan Quarter. We could not see much of the town from the water just a glimpse of some buildings set back away from the water. We headed for the fishing docks. There is a narrow channel lined on one side with docks and boats.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaLth-JSDrciR2zkx4Qw2PBBiZEfLTFivW2tTXFuJLY_LhZtIe6IdN2xFqYTvJj2SYJeGssSuMx6AYDMtHVRFmKf6AFeD_lJtW68N860RzTPjhDHpro8v7qSwDqD6wV1bLH4McM9-BsGY/s1600/P4100051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaLth-JSDrciR2zkx4Qw2PBBiZEfLTFivW2tTXFuJLY_LhZtIe6IdN2xFqYTvJj2SYJeGssSuMx6AYDMtHVRFmKf6AFeD_lJtW68N860RzTPjhDHpro8v7qSwDqD6wV1bLH4McM9-BsGY/s1600/P4100051.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB79EJxiDMRWnuHXuHloQly18WoNsDwXcw3FaudLQMJy3q4s2_w2E7i55F8mLTAKgmJ_o9NzB9ozZIk0on4A42JACQjCqr8_PX3uW0h-ZZk-ef31BgS6C9090VEDJK4TNONVvRMft8BBs/s1600/P4100052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB79EJxiDMRWnuHXuHloQly18WoNsDwXcw3FaudLQMJy3q4s2_w2E7i55F8mLTAKgmJ_o9NzB9ozZIk0on4A42JACQjCqr8_PX3uW0h-ZZk-ef31BgS6C9090VEDJK4TNONVvRMft8BBs/s1600/P4100052.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg20CKj5yfOo1PPF9xYPmrseDhZOVw_JNnof0xoGhhJpV21ER6mjd7MQkGTaWiethZKrRYdHOdkO7bZiVdmZ3p0OSaBfeWRdJdD40eptM2MuRlwQzKj0fA1pF6zxVTVXOym7F8D8FWeAWM/s1600/P4100053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg20CKj5yfOo1PPF9xYPmrseDhZOVw_JNnof0xoGhhJpV21ER6mjd7MQkGTaWiethZKrRYdHOdkO7bZiVdmZ3p0OSaBfeWRdJdD40eptM2MuRlwQzKj0fA1pF6zxVTVXOym7F8D8FWeAWM/s1600/P4100053.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After visiting the work boats of Swan Quarter we headed south down Swan Quarter Bay to a little creek that looked interesting. In the narrows between Judith Island and Swan Quarter Island we worked our way up into a beautiful little cove and anchored for lunch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBx_aIRSzRgDD1Bmh8zf2-hUIAYuYOekjzFoqBWTw2zoCRDjGq6bE6eQoQLoMx-v_nSikdVcjI6n0xMJtmZHkLy7ytAPbUKWlW6qgoJ89G8JhJ96mTVT9Up7Q_tuBOBQYNz3oCzs9bfU/s1600/P4100060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBx_aIRSzRgDD1Bmh8zf2-hUIAYuYOekjzFoqBWTw2zoCRDjGq6bE6eQoQLoMx-v_nSikdVcjI6n0xMJtmZHkLy7ytAPbUKWlW6qgoJ89G8JhJ96mTVT9Up7Q_tuBOBQYNz3oCzs9bfU/s1600/P4100060.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I guess you have to be partial to water and spartina grass because that is about all there is to Judith Island but it was paradise to us. On our return up the Pamlico River the wind began to build shifting from South to Southwest and back. Skorpa was soon up and planing. We would slow down as her bow worked into a wave then surge ahead as we broke through. We came tearing into North Creek where we brought the main down and then dropped our mizzen just before getting to our dock.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-1846559272274948762013-10-14T05:50:00.002-07:002013-10-14T05:57:52.660-07:00Block IslandNew Harbor our destination is located on the west side of Block Island. We gybed just outside the breakwater and sailed up the entrance channel on a broad reach. Once inside of Great Salt Pond we sailed from one end to the other just looking things over and scoping out a good spot to anchor. We have visited New Harbor several times in the past. In fact Sally rode out hurricane Carol in 1954 with her family on a small boat anchored in Great Salt Pond. We finally settled down in a little cove on the eastern edge of the Pond.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXC2uJ9XorwXLlzjTmrx0s15wdKZSjhvLrqciBMbR7liZtgKaPhlU2zbqfbMiGduY4V_V2e3tGu5Va8ZlAvNf3t9Pk5rveW6_gQzQM84BYwAAhTk_Lpjg68gDnz3A1Wof15uvCwGi5-w4/s1600/P9160031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXC2uJ9XorwXLlzjTmrx0s15wdKZSjhvLrqciBMbR7liZtgKaPhlU2zbqfbMiGduY4V_V2e3tGu5Va8ZlAvNf3t9Pk5rveW6_gQzQM84BYwAAhTk_Lpjg68gDnz3A1Wof15uvCwGi5-w4/s320/P9160031.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKKx4RjeYE6WITYDeXGKox9vXk4oV2gpbKyqcC8ps83-IIOy4Jf_Ama43d2TOVfvsnukudeoKW_vYI5WrYYYCEK1ndLzwiBqLqPQhzR2JA6eXBBc14BKMc7qv3heFkEk5KQdyd3dxcyg0/s1600/P9160024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKKx4RjeYE6WITYDeXGKox9vXk4oV2gpbKyqcC8ps83-IIOy4Jf_Ama43d2TOVfvsnukudeoKW_vYI5WrYYYCEK1ndLzwiBqLqPQhzR2JA6eXBBc14BKMc7qv3heFkEk5KQdyd3dxcyg0/s320/P9160024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
A group of Cormorants also liked our cove. They were diving for fish in the relatively clear water. We could see the bottom in some detail at a depth of 8 feet. We dined on pasta and tomato sauce as the skies began to darken. In the morning the wind had not yet switched to the N and was just 5 kts from the SW. We decided to have a more relaxed morning as it seemed like we were almost home.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksk0OD8TgW9bARM5_lkHlt45YZZi6Hi5CbCu_OnwlktW7v38Ux62GVgylORBqEA6FGfhTx4_79wlQ6hI09BPZDyFwhRCMbw1Pelh-VfKvCCBwPIjMGxrOws0gOEWuqVm57ejbsnTSP5w/s1600/P9160018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksk0OD8TgW9bARM5_lkHlt45YZZi6Hi5CbCu_OnwlktW7v38Ux62GVgylORBqEA6FGfhTx4_79wlQ6hI09BPZDyFwhRCMbw1Pelh-VfKvCCBwPIjMGxrOws0gOEWuqVm57ejbsnTSP5w/s320/P9160018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
We stayed very comfortable though it was in the 50's by morning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA4CHZPx_nGNOcssWNYoTybh0Q2jhELd0aNekLJcsq8sZZG3Q0nxUqVoGgKq_jv3445Simay-uL8SmeEYh0dv1xepKVqeOF1tVU0IgajKzAG8_zdVij81NUAiWP5fz17qDSY4gJd_ROhU/s1600/P9160021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA4CHZPx_nGNOcssWNYoTybh0Q2jhELd0aNekLJcsq8sZZG3Q0nxUqVoGgKq_jv3445Simay-uL8SmeEYh0dv1xepKVqeOF1tVU0IgajKzAG8_zdVij81NUAiWP5fz17qDSY4gJd_ROhU/s320/P9160021.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
You can see it is broad daylight as I am packing up my sleeping gear. The new stove box is visible on the galley table.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfAtsjZmHMFSnZ884uQlbsDrzQWGCsMI3a0REzrDz2hNyaeUoZxzDXaUnfi1sWglHAGAs3f4fVGd2mT8dpGkI4jhf1W6FZJcJN2pxzEUgSmgZEo7G0un51ecyR2Xmuu1EDXgrlcn0kK6Y/s1600/P9160032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfAtsjZmHMFSnZ884uQlbsDrzQWGCsMI3a0REzrDz2hNyaeUoZxzDXaUnfi1sWglHAGAs3f4fVGd2mT8dpGkI4jhf1W6FZJcJN2pxzEUgSmgZEo7G0un51ecyR2Xmuu1EDXgrlcn0kK6Y/s320/P9160032.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Raising sail around 8am. The mizzen always goes up first.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQxc3bxPtY6xr0H4-bda6QSRDMWrJ37wXGo9g_FuI2h4ZphPkawYJHY6U02Qt8iGLOFjJnWPaI6WsDfNXcHhPMgJ-WdD_3LLqcATEYMySKxdcoy-3i2GbEQnRTpL1zsgHOxdHhPm20osk/s1600/P9160036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQxc3bxPtY6xr0H4-bda6QSRDMWrJ37wXGo9g_FuI2h4ZphPkawYJHY6U02Qt8iGLOFjJnWPaI6WsDfNXcHhPMgJ-WdD_3LLqcATEYMySKxdcoy-3i2GbEQnRTpL1zsgHOxdHhPm20osk/s320/P9160036.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The wind was light as we glided around the Harbor looking over the old Coast Guard Station.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pZq3ZXdYWH-7Fum1UohRUR5y7loUswSlJFKRrXBzSYb5Q-MHxZjG9JPXqOLG_T8R5x4vO4HQvTDMwPHKuUwWdPahFZyU5GT_Ib51O2nOMcau_SpDWsc9rP0FYWdF2VyohHeVbUK-G64/s1600/P9160037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPym4updP7ol_0aocpXzWcSJmtvPMoKJrQ_OWdbBq9Y4QUA_0lxv41o0g_WT_zZMLlsrDetM3qhIQBkqBz1iSSDYDqkYFF8qrtRy7eopcjBJh2MJAUb8C8hyOPLI2L3qeytWlblGNxA9M/s1600/P9160040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPym4updP7ol_0aocpXzWcSJmtvPMoKJrQ_OWdbBq9Y4QUA_0lxv41o0g_WT_zZMLlsrDetM3qhIQBkqBz1iSSDYDqkYFF8qrtRy7eopcjBJh2MJAUb8C8hyOPLI2L3qeytWlblGNxA9M/s320/P9160040.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4YxebosDbJ8KEUF1FtMUt7oaM4b9gKDrp5XLQkbJgQGIuzWfCxLtYal7Xxdb4ZvIx-4TFWhY5Fm5gafKrN_qbzroQN5MR7EOSAXq3YcLy7jwfmsPWL-8VO-bjwkPgGBBBdLk9gSDiLq8/s1600/P9160042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4YxebosDbJ8KEUF1FtMUt7oaM4b9gKDrp5XLQkbJgQGIuzWfCxLtYal7Xxdb4ZvIx-4TFWhY5Fm5gafKrN_qbzroQN5MR7EOSAXq3YcLy7jwfmsPWL-8VO-bjwkPgGBBBdLk9gSDiLq8/s320/P9160042.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The skies are looking pretty interesting and we still have a 12nm crossing to make.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidxA6sM50yBXAf-x8CjR5QcpJtn0r5-tLCsAwjfh_5v4FYRrojPpyVjIctybhuxL25-WQpRmzHoL8AjE9VqQHj93q273r1TYNQlHNlsLkGFmLGXgLoS4XuuKRGFOvaXYY9cDtG_JfGpCM/s1600/P9160044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidxA6sM50yBXAf-x8CjR5QcpJtn0r5-tLCsAwjfh_5v4FYRrojPpyVjIctybhuxL25-WQpRmzHoL8AjE9VqQHj93q273r1TYNQlHNlsLkGFmLGXgLoS4XuuKRGFOvaXYY9cDtG_JfGpCM/s320/P9160044.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This opening to the sea was dug in 1895. We slipped out with a light wind from the W. Several boats were coming and going.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQqEstQApkQ6XwoXf1uk6A3NaY4muY65IuGiuWp4WGyNXhS1aFp96YsMSOJfPMtiyTHwc88LnEXw7MBDaRGR5mNmvggRergKO-BZ_bLH9eF0-d7eZFYn6oMsen9g3xePuS0RV3crzpjE/s1600/P9160037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQqEstQApkQ6XwoXf1uk6A3NaY4muY65IuGiuWp4WGyNXhS1aFp96YsMSOJfPMtiyTHwc88LnEXw7MBDaRGR5mNmvggRergKO-BZ_bLH9eF0-d7eZFYn6oMsen9g3xePuS0RV3crzpjE/s320/P9160037.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We headed North along the Bock Island shore wanting to get a look at the North Light House.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVWO6qcKDJMNLdeYsDL4WGAzthoRIuDLz6nf7wto59Rma0OI1q-kShA7J75UpmfKJsdK-4A2bvk-JK6Q52Bk6FN0kjhgHE_u-e8phiLfKoeSI6kIltT84U3QVAjSBhhZXWhVzQGhGH0_8/s1600/P9160046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVWO6qcKDJMNLdeYsDL4WGAzthoRIuDLz6nf7wto59Rma0OI1q-kShA7J75UpmfKJsdK-4A2bvk-JK6Q52Bk6FN0kjhgHE_u-e8phiLfKoeSI6kIltT84U3QVAjSBhhZXWhVzQGhGH0_8/s320/P9160046.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr9wRs6855jNwNhblYaeC5JRKfyfPY2QDqFuTwEdRGDVEEF3c69b2u6BU8T6FIkcaXZEwkdLwoQ9YGpYdU7UdlFdCyW5GETEDf4asP8EuraEtwYkvztWQWqr66BGS9PVKlukVxpcyoEt0/s1600/P9160047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr9wRs6855jNwNhblYaeC5JRKfyfPY2QDqFuTwEdRGDVEEF3c69b2u6BU8T6FIkcaXZEwkdLwoQ9YGpYdU7UdlFdCyW5GETEDf4asP8EuraEtwYkvztWQWqr66BGS9PVKlukVxpcyoEt0/s320/P9160047.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The North Light was built on Sandy Point in 1867. Much of the north end of Block Island is a nature preserve and it is incredibly beautiful.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNLbSaYzM9j6n90zi2E0TJRlFWAE6yP5MLfN-NX9p1-xDdoQf5v81kzIFjLNGba329WF_8lvonb5EutdZXk9ovTB5TZlgEOhYgQbhDnDxtguQ41U3CUb6-r0zCk8v3vlo0XfF2FWh0Wfw/s1600/P9160053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNLbSaYzM9j6n90zi2E0TJRlFWAE6yP5MLfN-NX9p1-xDdoQf5v81kzIFjLNGba329WF_8lvonb5EutdZXk9ovTB5TZlgEOhYgQbhDnDxtguQ41U3CUb6-r0zCk8v3vlo0XfF2FWh0Wfw/s320/P9160053.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Right in here somewhere the wind began to shift to the NW and gust. The clouds seemed to darken and lower. We had been sailing within a hundred yards of what was becoming a lee shore. I decided to put a little sea room between us and beach while we discussed one reef or two.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoq8u9JWrS-wosVWlWX5tveOfmQPFv8YKNxZXn4Oih-17TrDSoC5_FocoyXmH7ZDKUb2wsfpnlNseYR-ONdekS73nihazlke6Bx_FqGMCIS5064gO0gOiUQV1kJP5bj4ZO0cMQyPAoK0/s1600/P9160055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoq8u9JWrS-wosVWlWX5tveOfmQPFv8YKNxZXn4Oih-17TrDSoC5_FocoyXmH7ZDKUb2wsfpnlNseYR-ONdekS73nihazlke6Bx_FqGMCIS5064gO0gOiUQV1kJP5bj4ZO0cMQyPAoK0/s320/P9160055.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I put one reef in the main and there were times over the next few hours that I wished I had reefed down harder. The wind began to build and continue to veer to the north. Just the direction we wanted to sail. One thing in our favor. The Long Island Current was flowing north along this eastern side of Block Island and the current was flowing east between Block Island and the mainland. We could see a distinct line of funny water paralleling the sand bar that extents about a mile from Sandy Point north towards the mainland. Even though we had plenty of water we did not like the look of that line and so we pushed further north. Finally we set our course for Point Judith just crossing the northern edge of the rip. I was plenty warm when we left New Harbor but now I was beginning to chill as the air cooled and we started getting wet from the intermittent showers and spray flying back at us as Skorpa shouldered into the building waves. The boat felt solid but I did not feel like I could relax as the wind was gusty. There was a tug towing a barge across our course and we helped each other keep track of it and other smaller traffic in the lowering visibility. There was a time when we were a long way from Block Island and Point Judith was just a smudge on the horizon and each tack seemed to bring us no closer. I brought up the line from the song the Walloping Window Blind.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;">The man at the wheel was made to feel<br />
Contempt for the wildest blow-ow-ow<br />
Tho' it often appeared when the gale had cleared,<br />
That he'd been in his bunk below.
</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
Well there was no hiding in a bunk below for us. Just tack and hike, and tack and hike and duck the spray, and trust that we were making progress. And sure enough first Point Judith Light came into view and then the breakwater was visible. We could see the ferry coming from Block Island and making in through the west gap. The wind grew light as we entered the Harbor of Refuge. I lit the stove and made some tea. The incoming tide welcomed us as we sailed through the breachway and headed for home.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;"></span><br />
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-28368925884264405662013-10-13T04:39:00.000-07:002013-10-13T05:31:17.937-07:00Fata MorganaStratification of layers of air of differing temperatures and densities producing optical illusions, mirages. Named after Morgan le Fay the powerful sorceress and antagonist of King Arthur. At sea Fata Morgana can make distant objects appear to float above the horizon, it can make objects appear larger and or much closer than they really are.<br />
I cooked some hot cereal and fixed coffee while the stars were still out and we left Napatree just after 7am. The wind was NNW about 5 kts. That made for a very gentle sail but since the wind was behind us we made nice progress. We could see surf breaking occasionally over the Catumb Rocks. We kept them to our left and Fisher Island away off to the right. The tide was just beginning to ebb out of Long Island Sound so we kept our course about 10 degrees further west to compensate for the eastward drift. When I hear the weather forecast saying Winds NW 10 kts becoming SW 10-15 kts by afternoon. I imagine the wind blowing NW for awhile then switching and blowing from the SW. It is usually more like wind starts to fade from the NW, wind calm, a little breeze from the W, wind calm, a little breeze from the NW, wind calm, a little breeze from the W. This goes on for what seems like a very long time before eventually the wind is strong from the SW. A few Lions Mane jellyfish drifted by and Sally rowed for awhile before the wind gradually began to build<br />
Long Island began as a few smudges on the horizon. They slowly grew and filled in as we worked our way south.A particularly unusual looking bump near the eastern tip on Montauk is a radar antenna built during the cold war. Morgan le Fay"s witchcraft caused it to grow into what looked like a giant toadstool floating a bit above the horizon. Sorry but these kinds of things don't photograph well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6xdFojOFeXD5uyruEidiXKn7wLtz61PUvYOdR7yjVIBozZC6HrEXYmhCX9g06-VLektt_4DgNrILJKaHp6sDB33ASyjIs9YgftWI6SE7Da21dy2oEmz4o4Vc2D6L-h77Pe7NfatQKxU/s1600/P9150012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6xdFojOFeXD5uyruEidiXKn7wLtz61PUvYOdR7yjVIBozZC6HrEXYmhCX9g06-VLektt_4DgNrILJKaHp6sDB33ASyjIs9YgftWI6SE7Da21dy2oEmz4o4Vc2D6L-h77Pe7NfatQKxU/s320/P9150012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Montauk Lighthouse built in 1796. The radar antenna is off screen to the right. Not as pretty. Our original plan had been to spend the night in Lake Montauk. However Monday the winds are predicted to switch to the North as a cold front sweeps in. That could make for a long slog directly into the wind back to Point Judith. There is much here that I would like to explore, but our slow passage from Watch Hill, and the deteriorating weather forcast means there is insufficient time to explore the harbors and islands of eastern Long Island so they will have to wait for another time. We set a course for New Harbor on Block Island. The stiff breeze from the SW made for a rollicking ride. The wind was off our stern and we surfed some of the two foot waves.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPDE-SKNp8tI2EpdBNZMqUZB92Foha33xMiRhlQvyh8iYmkikGoL41GgG47iKwp05KqbwFc7rrE8nLHqwYPfUG9Z0Zfz_EJo2-SQC_xb4tFvIkLeIQ1XZs3v6HEtTxO9YD0B0t5DziDo/s1600/P9150013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPDE-SKNp8tI2EpdBNZMqUZB92Foha33xMiRhlQvyh8iYmkikGoL41GgG47iKwp05KqbwFc7rrE8nLHqwYPfUG9Z0Zfz_EJo2-SQC_xb4tFvIkLeIQ1XZs3v6HEtTxO9YD0B0t5DziDo/s320/P9150013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It was about 1pm when we left Montauk astern and not yet 3pm when we completed the 15nm crossing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-45125265571111281402013-10-11T10:52:00.001-07:002013-10-11T15:57:59.346-07:00Gone SailingPoint Judith is a nice place to sail from. You can head south and west to Long Island Sound or north and east to Narragansett Bay or the Elizabeth Islands. Summer is coming to a close so it is now or never if Sally and I are going to get a trip in this year. We have been out sailing several times including an overnighter in the Harbor of Refuge. I did a solo trip over to Block Island returning the same day, but I really wanted to do a multi day trip, cover a few miles and explore some new places. On one day trip in the Harbor of Refuge we spotted the intriguing shape of a small cat ketch. We came about and sailed over for a closer inspection and were pleased to recognize that it was Jeff and his two sons in his Core Sound 20. In a brief shouted exchange Jeff reported that they had just sailed in from Montauk. That was a 25 nm sail with a 15+ knot wind off their stern quarter. That would have made for an incredible 4 or 5 hour sleigh ride. Wow I've always wanted to go to Montauk. I shouted back.<br />
<br />
That was the nudge I needed. I started looking for a three day block of available time with a decent weather window. Then a menu and check list and finally packing the boat.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sU-co9GdZFWpz7EkAq2YKl_7oz_xjd-bSE0ZU9J39Cy8zEFhyphenhyphenwdGZD_QInAcDL9NabmF1uwe-0ji24AWea3HkyCg14rfkcEearPbiUgdMJnUjcUaCmvgpX1fLuqSo07ZkEtbW6XMmc0/s1600/DSC00353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sU-co9GdZFWpz7EkAq2YKl_7oz_xjd-bSE0ZU9J39Cy8zEFhyphenhyphenwdGZD_QInAcDL9NabmF1uwe-0ji24AWea3HkyCg14rfkcEearPbiUgdMJnUjcUaCmvgpX1fLuqSo07ZkEtbW6XMmc0/s320/DSC00353.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Sally is at the tiller sailing past Jerusalem on the way out of Point Judith Pond.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv8gnUwd-hjMJUIqAhDfxmjYlgLJrtSeGBCURSr4UZWNAqS05DzcjhroSzPfnFbs1huDSqinZAHClI_3vfIgH152bPtq_vr75dDzWnxC1I7DUKVhMqzHhrMS7I1ryXJemAbZ2hsix12Xg/s1600/DSC00360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv8gnUwd-hjMJUIqAhDfxmjYlgLJrtSeGBCURSr4UZWNAqS05DzcjhroSzPfnFbs1huDSqinZAHClI_3vfIgH152bPtq_vr75dDzWnxC1I7DUKVhMqzHhrMS7I1ryXJemAbZ2hsix12Xg/s320/DSC00360.jpg" width="213" /></a>Wind NW 10-15 knots heading west along the Rhode Island coast toward Watch Hill. Watch Hill came into sight around noon about the same time the wind backed around to the West. This necessitated tacking back and forth through Watch Hill Passage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQ8HlJqPDGBLGBcBluCYOs1KuLMkqpDq4eVHp0k46p7xtO3I_-EQUGu5MGyBOIa4EXgE43no15xJx3V21ECCJ6Td3kUxeeL0gDZEJEJuBtggKL08EduyAn9pOy5l1f1BMH_uYv1y_Zcw/s1600/IMG_P9160019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQ8HlJqPDGBLGBcBluCYOs1KuLMkqpDq4eVHp0k46p7xtO3I_-EQUGu5MGyBOIa4EXgE43no15xJx3V21ECCJ6Td3kUxeeL0gDZEJEJuBtggKL08EduyAn9pOy5l1f1BMH_uYv1y_Zcw/s320/IMG_P9160019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
A few years ago Sally and I drove to Watch Hill and hiked around Napatree Point. We spotted several interesting shore birds including some Piping Plovers. It was exciting and very different approaching the area from sea, but having visited the area before from land was comforting and made it easier to get our bearings.We rounded Red # 6 taking us around Napatree Ledge. I was pretty sure there was plenty of water inside the bouy and I could see a small boat taking the shortcut over the ledge but we decided to play it safe and round the point well outside all of the rocks. As we rounded the point and looked inside towards our intended anchorage we could see surf breaking. That gave us some additional incentive to stay outside and approach cautiously.<br />
<br />
We headed towards the large sandbar that clogs the entrance to Little Narragansett Bay as we approached the bar we hove too for a few moments to plan our next move. We could head over towards Stonington and pick up the marked channel. That would take us over to Watch Hill Cove but it was a couple of miles out of our way following a narrow but marked and dredged channel. Our anchorage was in sight less than a mile across the shallows. As we were discussing the situation we observed a small power boat cutting across the flats and we could see he was following some private markers. Then another boat did the same and we decided to follow. We had a fair wind so in no time we were in deep water just outside Watch Hill Cove.<br />
There were quite a few boats around from power boats to a 45 foot ketch. We moved as far towards the point as we could until the water began to shoal then we dropped the hook a couple of hundred feet from the sandy beach.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oSl9DYrrhaak0raTr8fSuRP8vDu3DvSvEnU7oGwBhgPyod0mUhJ628y_BfCJNSWMxrWKBYU1sQLNbvG9W4F7SWa_GnegQ-Lhvy0DK_zfB4st2udAURiNdLxsOrygmxtzUnb9NmS1DCQ/s1600/P9140006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oSl9DYrrhaak0raTr8fSuRP8vDu3DvSvEnU7oGwBhgPyod0mUhJ628y_BfCJNSWMxrWKBYU1sQLNbvG9W4F7SWa_GnegQ-Lhvy0DK_zfB4st2udAURiNdLxsOrygmxtzUnb9NmS1DCQ/s320/P9140006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This is the sound side of Napatree Beach. Skorpa is facing NW into the shallows of Little Naragansett Bay. Watch Hill is in the background. I let out an extra 100 feet of scope and by pulling on an oar we were able to force the stern towards the shore and step out into a few inches of water. Nothing like getting your feet on solid ground after a passage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLELmm7Iq_THO7jaHN7dkXIo1GwwqO1pIoC5Pn8bwKn_I6mGuOEcfA1qludpQHnKFSJC8v_8Z-zYjm446Xdzzc7JujUZ5DkZ149CAYrg2ckjwjkqUSOEzEXOJZlJY_kjMPviQAEnrkeE/s1600/P9140003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLELmm7Iq_THO7jaHN7dkXIo1GwwqO1pIoC5Pn8bwKn_I6mGuOEcfA1qludpQHnKFSJC8v_8Z-zYjm446Xdzzc7JujUZ5DkZ149CAYrg2ckjwjkqUSOEzEXOJZlJY_kjMPviQAEnrkeE/s320/P9140003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJAnIBMeRHAfPpnkrclxvepY5VnQzLBJhzepgZDv3IjS-ozN3eIYU_T7glGiYvzB3GMdzmqHCSCVVwp-FwHFHG_rP4ekfX9cIw9-681kt3cEf-T9l4sA6owAGk0z5fwv-zrqiDHAgBltk/s1600/P9140004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJAnIBMeRHAfPpnkrclxvepY5VnQzLBJhzepgZDv3IjS-ozN3eIYU_T7glGiYvzB3GMdzmqHCSCVVwp-FwHFHG_rP4ekfX9cIw9-681kt3cEf-T9l4sA6owAGk0z5fwv-zrqiDHAgBltk/s320/P9140004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Sally enjoys looking through the wrack for interesting stuff.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmMLE8vB4y6BZHqcp014RrwHD0kZQkBlGkrGtPaMGhXYylbbEJefsMceXFZRGzwKFWHCys1Qo_DQkMhwEw6Qf0IiMUUMqqgquB7iS2iJPOQHAfplIIv-ViKsBqZImgZVNBkaIOZldk9E/s1600/P9140005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmMLE8vB4y6BZHqcp014RrwHD0kZQkBlGkrGtPaMGhXYylbbEJefsMceXFZRGzwKFWHCys1Qo_DQkMhwEw6Qf0IiMUUMqqgquB7iS2iJPOQHAfplIIv-ViKsBqZImgZVNBkaIOZldk9E/s320/P9140005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Sally is on the short path that leads through the dunes from the sound side to the ocean. After a nice walk we clambered back on board and started supper. Curried rice and vegetables cooked in our pressure cooker made a tasty meal. We had a very quiet night. The wind veered north and eased off a little. The tide went out making the water surrounding our anchorage quite shallow and offering us more protection from the waves.<br />
The wind was predicted to shift from NW to SW on Sunday. We decided to try for an early start so we could ride the favorable winds as far as we could toward Montauk.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-60807186466095503442013-09-28T05:42:00.001-07:002013-09-28T05:42:30.390-07:00Daggerboard CaseIn some places I have seen the term Centerboard refer to any retractable board located inside a sailboat that is used to limit side slip when under sail. A Daggerboard is a type of centerboard that slides straight up and down in a case. Sometimes Centerboard is used to refer only to a board that pivots on a pin. So forgive me if I interchange the terms a little.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIg8ZHpoK-xf6Oey-sF7oiP6C_4_C21qQBY3_t9lE7GSnFkQYAHyyV0RLa3zKi-Aa-ugXk5gW6YNLckAdOBAqUKYgYq_54jnSGSuCNKW4beS859yQRdCRnf8VraoU158r3iru0r0OWkp8/s1600/P9010002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV2EjAa8pDA9jnU2gQLgcaXnzF_qnq5bDGzGUfNbGDDmWK7VwdlkxXfGQt22mrJVhoq6uAq37i68HjHHt1rkVZ9z-encOOYrZzjmpD8YkfmdXHJG54YQJ_vNIxYSRasuA6U6ojNgak3CY/s1600/P8040005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV2EjAa8pDA9jnU2gQLgcaXnzF_qnq5bDGzGUfNbGDDmWK7VwdlkxXfGQt22mrJVhoq6uAq37i68HjHHt1rkVZ9z-encOOYrZzjmpD8YkfmdXHJG54YQJ_vNIxYSRasuA6U6ojNgak3CY/s320/P8040005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This is the side of the daggerboard case. The top is reinforced with a piece of 1 by 2. You could just glue a straight board across the top, but I had fun shaping the rails. I think they look a little nicer and they are lighter.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhypMVVURAjqoAsQU2hUrw_f_k1kbGy8IanLuh_xhK2JsbLvWOrrmRxrcEotkxRRg2RGvxw_oOfDoEyZz9026H-OsoA6HgXXSpZ76RvY7-EXgnZQXjR3-ADmpTLckm0kJHsaBrahhoxSxc/s1600/P8040006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhypMVVURAjqoAsQU2hUrw_f_k1kbGy8IanLuh_xhK2JsbLvWOrrmRxrcEotkxRRg2RGvxw_oOfDoEyZz9026H-OsoA6HgXXSpZ76RvY7-EXgnZQXjR3-ADmpTLckm0kJHsaBrahhoxSxc/s320/P8040006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The case then goes into the boat. The exact location is pretty critical. The case must be directly under the cut out in the seat tops. It must be as vertical as possible fore and aft and side to side.Also you would like it to be in line with the keel of the boat. A lot to keep track of.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsFHp3sOHLDn47LoZea47WXLMvSEmcAq5o2ftRuUPJE4Ata1_nHEyCvCtcFIJYUyEnCWJoXL8WhdDqZ3zJFSqmcSwnykSun4agEEhGxDVZsk43f60bUXKwF8dy-yug8ea4I-JQQhOryqU/s1600/P9010001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsFHp3sOHLDn47LoZea47WXLMvSEmcAq5o2ftRuUPJE4Ata1_nHEyCvCtcFIJYUyEnCWJoXL8WhdDqZ3zJFSqmcSwnykSun4agEEhGxDVZsk43f60bUXKwF8dy-yug8ea4I-JQQhOryqU/s320/P9010001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I ran a string from bow to stern to develop a centerline and transferred some marks to some boards clamped temporarily in place.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhws4Ozr1eBSAiLMVIrjAHoiEFtDwCGQ0f__8IBUrfGQZSNqYM8Yub5Z95HC5fcDglOhfoXAnuZ1RtwavoSiPgRlbsigECd5C1tFSuEG3eysk_uQQRt5yDC6riRy1zhkWQ9G3c9cI4sKKE/s1600/P8080001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhws4Ozr1eBSAiLMVIrjAHoiEFtDwCGQ0f__8IBUrfGQZSNqYM8Yub5Z95HC5fcDglOhfoXAnuZ1RtwavoSiPgRlbsigECd5C1tFSuEG3eysk_uQQRt5yDC6riRy1zhkWQ9G3c9cI4sKKE/s320/P8080001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikavHL1MXyPnirlzb-z0NsTl0Qm6ACCaac8FCKITIxxLp-LLl7DJ2-Gx_YFNd_xQQbpRIQ0mjDsOPdk2d1ODGeo3VzNbf6IS2S_K2VBls96bsn4RVKDmqhpA8CAFgGrUfONunbcOO0oTU/s1600/P8080002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikavHL1MXyPnirlzb-z0NsTl0Qm6ACCaac8FCKITIxxLp-LLl7DJ2-Gx_YFNd_xQQbpRIQ0mjDsOPdk2d1ODGeo3VzNbf6IS2S_K2VBls96bsn4RVKDmqhpA8CAFgGrUfONunbcOO0oTU/s320/P8080002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Lots of test fitting until finally I went ahead and glued the case in place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiasAevzMZt1snyWSPwdI8wOfLOQLkVhVueSlwn2hN9BotgbR_Exx7qGWQlEQm4GNXSFe4yktGMlukuu576Yaug_VjrUrRqmW4lohrNzOjd82EwektABuch7y6n6k1gbM-_1BjVQpNiTa0/s1600/P9010002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiasAevzMZt1snyWSPwdI8wOfLOQLkVhVueSlwn2hN9BotgbR_Exx7qGWQlEQm4GNXSFe4yktGMlukuu576Yaug_VjrUrRqmW4lohrNzOjd82EwektABuch7y6n6k1gbM-_1BjVQpNiTa0/s320/P9010002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
A fillet and some tape around the case and I will be ready for the seat stringers and seat tops.<br /><br />
<br />
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-13459652274678865842013-08-12T18:36:00.000-07:002013-08-12T18:39:42.991-07:00Centerboard and RudderThese are the blades that cut through the water to limit side slip and to steer the boat. I will give them a foil shape blunt on the forward edge and with a gradual taper on the aft edge.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JGrQWGw6Ni0fv29iH92_dzj1t8EHihdZuvkPGQqISSvZj2_U2reB6sfVKHW6ca5Tu_vYve4PJdg8NgDUzd_cyubLvV7S7ssrN8RCWMeQuWUPH9D6YwAOYYKsnHTKMX7I21hzZ_gqo5w/s1600/P7020001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JGrQWGw6Ni0fv29iH92_dzj1t8EHihdZuvkPGQqISSvZj2_U2reB6sfVKHW6ca5Tu_vYve4PJdg8NgDUzd_cyubLvV7S7ssrN8RCWMeQuWUPH9D6YwAOYYKsnHTKMX7I21hzZ_gqo5w/s320/P7020001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
These are the plywood blanks that come with the kit. I have glued them up two layers for the rudder and three layers for the daggerboard. I have penciled in a line that I will bring the initial taper to.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJDcvWNyOQQWCrOWQGEXIjBam_STT2ZGIRx_CrbE7_kQGtsToB_cSq5NDzoXqvMeclP3oWWVcEE5mdm2vGYu_Ck_rUZ_LNxR6IjuwPUb1Z4NpXV13NiNJZzgwU0iLywMbS3SS2k5-ttw/s1600/P7150004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJDcvWNyOQQWCrOWQGEXIjBam_STT2ZGIRx_CrbE7_kQGtsToB_cSq5NDzoXqvMeclP3oWWVcEE5mdm2vGYu_Ck_rUZ_LNxR6IjuwPUb1Z4NpXV13NiNJZzgwU0iLywMbS3SS2k5-ttw/s320/P7150004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The internal layers of plywood produce a pattern that helps keep the shaping even.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3rOcdgvubTF_AQHxW0E0XAAYC8x8sJ_L-OLGKU9Hxt75HGnR_BjADsp2xUwwvzm5kFdyIUTkIeinPktp2dGUPRmmj8qybv5wYfsHXYLP3qU_kDL-t71pgdxlopB1klQhdHaq5mPtwmCI/s1600/P7150007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3rOcdgvubTF_AQHxW0E0XAAYC8x8sJ_L-OLGKU9Hxt75HGnR_BjADsp2xUwwvzm5kFdyIUTkIeinPktp2dGUPRmmj8qybv5wYfsHXYLP3qU_kDL-t71pgdxlopB1klQhdHaq5mPtwmCI/s320/P7150007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I soaked a piece of braided line in epoxy and set it into the leading edge of the boards. This helps to prevent damage to the blade when objects are encountered.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCKn2sS5cVW5WFmzK-y93mbhSR9GdnHKfr8Ej7dyuqKMGCMpCrA9Dj6UCGmEUlJhFgJ2iFBSKIKNYHdQOUHQjCkm83ZveB3su0OgwLxTBe2UZwMLhOuwuQGvw9OT6veAEYLqxStZqPis/s1600/P7150013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCKn2sS5cVW5WFmzK-y93mbhSR9GdnHKfr8Ej7dyuqKMGCMpCrA9Dj6UCGmEUlJhFgJ2iFBSKIKNYHdQOUHQjCkm83ZveB3su0OgwLxTBe2UZwMLhOuwuQGvw9OT6veAEYLqxStZqPis/s320/P7150013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I covered both the rudder and daggerboard with a layer of glass cloth saturated with epoxy. This significantly increases their strength and resistance to moisture.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKjOF0Lge3JeGGAW1GWJ-N5X63Jp5Z6-MFdERRMlDIi4L_Mrvba3bw32sPEca99TbRtQNpLtl7I5I_0hnF6Ye-ErEHcCJi4DHTvZfknaqKLtaSWPEr2O8CvQ62uoiRRu_8JgXvnIQgmc/s1600/P8040005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKjOF0Lge3JeGGAW1GWJ-N5X63Jp5Z6-MFdERRMlDIi4L_Mrvba3bw32sPEca99TbRtQNpLtl7I5I_0hnF6Ye-ErEHcCJi4DHTvZfknaqKLtaSWPEr2O8CvQ62uoiRRu_8JgXvnIQgmc/s320/P8040005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
While working on the daggerboard I also started working on the daggerboard case.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMYUXMMWWTC4UxhS2hu_nw1vlieKKigGYq-t-XvTGZAFwU51NaLjXJ3KROwcx7W8wUZLAIckAuKkSH_pL7gSca7h4pgO4zAGgIlZmjxmPpBZP7Ek-viNqJri5yMW3NjFiKQhpY7ASPHU/s1600/P8020004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMYUXMMWWTC4UxhS2hu_nw1vlieKKigGYq-t-XvTGZAFwU51NaLjXJ3KROwcx7W8wUZLAIckAuKkSH_pL7gSca7h4pgO4zAGgIlZmjxmPpBZP7Ek-viNqJri5yMW3NjFiKQhpY7ASPHU/s320/P8020004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMIE5QIz6882kB8OzYVtBeeLykgJXbNXjGqw5k6RdTCrE1OQaxGb5_VTJ1H0tU2HXNZmqzp3DCu7rWpmpcM1k0-Oup4TiAqS01NpaHqkrSV45JdMlNwatCYDN9eYT1phOJeADsV-JGyPo/s1600/P8020002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMIE5QIz6882kB8OzYVtBeeLykgJXbNXjGqw5k6RdTCrE1OQaxGb5_VTJ1H0tU2HXNZmqzp3DCu7rWpmpcM1k0-Oup4TiAqS01NpaHqkrSV45JdMlNwatCYDN9eYT1phOJeADsV-JGyPo/s320/P8020002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
With the daggerboard finished I can adjust the kingposts so the case has about 1/8 inch clearance.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-19580943482783401632013-08-04T08:58:00.001-07:002013-08-04T08:58:51.657-07:00Winding and Taping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIw4XsrzZDVjp_MoFPXvaP_KklC3j7f1cqrfCL7tQCzBIz8SR1B5XxkNTbCnCz7OPpGbyDQ5lH1V2OCGzpdWC__K0PYznNm7XG0P9rzOFDn67gMyVIVylQTB9-mGu9F7ah3msODbn6aDA/s1600/P5270058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIw4XsrzZDVjp_MoFPXvaP_KklC3j7f1cqrfCL7tQCzBIz8SR1B5XxkNTbCnCz7OPpGbyDQ5lH1V2OCGzpdWC__K0PYznNm7XG0P9rzOFDn67gMyVIVylQTB9-mGu9F7ah3msODbn6aDA/s320/P5270058.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The sticks laid across the gunwales one up forward and the other aft are called winding sticks. They are carefully placed perpendicular to the center line of the boat. If you squat down and sight along the sticks you can detect even a small twist in the boat. Then by adjusting your boat stand you can get the boat to lay straight. While the boat is just held together with wires it is easy to correct any twist, but once you start adding the seats, bulkheads, and start taping the seams the boat will be locked into its shape.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpPrb4oGOoyLTtFNyoTMdP0LzP4DTH0yEan5uOmJEEb_YSyyu2vp2uWCEDFnxl7t21ZKtDltC2f7z-P6gbrW067URCZAm8u-3sjYcXPffIYrXm-nuOcgYQamBPPcHPD7qyamieKaR_c8E/s1600/P5270061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpPrb4oGOoyLTtFNyoTMdP0LzP4DTH0yEan5uOmJEEb_YSyyu2vp2uWCEDFnxl7t21ZKtDltC2f7z-P6gbrW067URCZAm8u-3sjYcXPffIYrXm-nuOcgYQamBPPcHPD7qyamieKaR_c8E/s320/P5270061.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a close up inside the boat near the rear. You can see the copper wires that hold the panels together. I have made epoxy welds between the wires so I can remove them before filleting and taping the seams.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0CkcG_N4o1pbl-XdSlWLzQ_-BA8L3gAFh95wifp8cedJ6rdcnD2jmDBP6ImXopQggu2k6eW6FUgghdEOCOVWzr1lEFy2KgjwNWtpnrPuZMuY82dUXkX1cgIoTEE_6s3tt-0jyabMGa94/s1600/P5270059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0CkcG_N4o1pbl-XdSlWLzQ_-BA8L3gAFh95wifp8cedJ6rdcnD2jmDBP6ImXopQggu2k6eW6FUgghdEOCOVWzr1lEFy2KgjwNWtpnrPuZMuY82dUXkX1cgIoTEE_6s3tt-0jyabMGa94/s320/P5270059.jpg" width="320" />I</a></div>
Here you get a good view of the temporary bulkhead in the center of the boat. I have installed the seat sides and the aft bulkhead. Graham advised that when building a kit it is important to test fit ahead of time as many pieces as possible. If you are building from scratch you can always custom cut a piece to fit, but the kit parts have little tolerance for error.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoUmN6XSTlSWhNoVeKTIKxzjhNwjj_fPzjDqgp1dMhMqlIvU2gBFxk68MZH61SxZ-r0lhOt4GWKfEWt2Yg3N_fUgeKq47y6a2fCy_SAUa-4lyRQKnm5DuALrb88JpfbB_JSciCAq9Vns/s1600/P5270060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoUmN6XSTlSWhNoVeKTIKxzjhNwjj_fPzjDqgp1dMhMqlIvU2gBFxk68MZH61SxZ-r0lhOt4GWKfEWt2Yg3N_fUgeKq47y6a2fCy_SAUa-4lyRQKnm5DuALrb88JpfbB_JSciCAq9Vns/s320/P5270060.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Here you can see how tabs in the seat sides fit into notches in the forward bulkhead. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxxuIQE4_tzah1OPzjYlZN1EqNAJm_nsfMHJfzzS4b91-MI3rDzuti1w59yDK7QF0gjixa37b5nzOmL0j2cot88WKlb1AtCEZxox2EqUyynn6HJSn2aPrFwgv2JRAk0HSfkgqEptkIHAA/s1600/P5270063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxxuIQE4_tzah1OPzjYlZN1EqNAJm_nsfMHJfzzS4b91-MI3rDzuti1w59yDK7QF0gjixa37b5nzOmL0j2cot88WKlb1AtCEZxox2EqUyynn6HJSn2aPrFwgv2JRAk0HSfkgqEptkIHAA/s320/P5270063.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Sometimes a drywall screw is the best way to hold a piece in place until the epoxy sets. Screws don't allow the pieces to slip and they can be used where a clamp could not reach. Here are a couple of screws from the bottom up into the transom. Drywall screws are cheap and not very strong. I like to loosen them a little before the epoxy has set. If you don't there is risk that the screw head will break off. Buried under an epoxy coating the steel screw might not cause a problem for quite awhile but I dig them out rather than leave any pieces behind. If you don't loosen the screws before the epoxy has set a soldiering iron will heat the screw enough to make the epoxy let go.,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cShxo1sgEorIzaC-ei14mgp7IBS2Ra0ttbDX3yeis7_Vv90ymVF8GLPOv0fRi7L-IIcwZFRXRTCESdPO73iQ-bEy7RxIzG_dd8qEj9RbgqtjvxLgIYHtxAMYKOmLFKYzV0AjHt_ODKo/s1600/P5270065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cShxo1sgEorIzaC-ei14mgp7IBS2Ra0ttbDX3yeis7_Vv90ymVF8GLPOv0fRi7L-IIcwZFRXRTCESdPO73iQ-bEy7RxIzG_dd8qEj9RbgqtjvxLgIYHtxAMYKOmLFKYzV0AjHt_ODKo/s320/P5270065.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The white stripes are fiberglass tape laid out and cut to length.The tape is wound up out of the way and a fillet is laid down in the seam. When the fillet is partly set I apply the tape and wet it out with unthickened epoxy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7fjiNaXwM6jxyKolu0EPNkyKObCI5igE5ZO3YheAaFzT5cMpWbn5V6aatSroN3G7dwzDZoTnPRja3CpebmDuflCRiOUS6TICkXLFk4OGoOJv3XkFcMlX-EadmNTWH4zNsXhJzYPTjhg/s1600/P5280069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7fjiNaXwM6jxyKolu0EPNkyKObCI5igE5ZO3YheAaFzT5cMpWbn5V6aatSroN3G7dwzDZoTnPRja3CpebmDuflCRiOUS6TICkXLFk4OGoOJv3XkFcMlX-EadmNTWH4zNsXhJzYPTjhg/s320/P5280069.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-52167578424691361022013-06-16T04:33:00.000-07:002013-08-04T08:22:13.040-07:00GunwaleThe gunwale is the top edge of a boat. Pronounced more like and sometimes spelled gunnel. The gunwales need to be installed early on in the construction of this dinghy, because they add some rigidity to the sides and help smooth out any wobbles in the 1\4 inch plywood. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhV64NlrEC3tsTwEDq-4ei80l_ikdqn8AD14_dIHH-1lmBDp9ZdHwMXSQsFTkWod2AHj7EtLOrWTVG1LjKtgXBMH3qQlefE2FlP8YiZ1iFMK15hn3N4Bfj_o01jGHlLUsnVBDQvFLyx9c/s1600/P5160053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhV64NlrEC3tsTwEDq-4ei80l_ikdqn8AD14_dIHH-1lmBDp9ZdHwMXSQsFTkWod2AHj7EtLOrWTVG1LjKtgXBMH3qQlefE2FlP8YiZ1iFMK15hn3N4Bfj_o01jGHlLUsnVBDQvFLyx9c/s320/P5160053.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The plans call for the gunwales to be made out of 11 foot pieces of 3\4 by 1 1\2 wood of your choice.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRDCvfohjt1ZZhYxLgrGcC-3234JaohDTSIwx3yVmHl17vGRmbt8P7i7Rxy9SnQFE5uVZA3wKJD_v3j_dtvWOc8sVq9_vhfhAx0pq8fjKG1e2LlCdQjxlwg1JiyF0mOXGKY6PHpWDYC4/s1600/P5210057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRDCvfohjt1ZZhYxLgrGcC-3234JaohDTSIwx3yVmHl17vGRmbt8P7i7Rxy9SnQFE5uVZA3wKJD_v3j_dtvWOc8sVq9_vhfhAx0pq8fjKG1e2LlCdQjxlwg1JiyF0mOXGKY6PHpWDYC4/s320/P5210057.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
A solid piece of wood that size is pretty difficult to bend into the shape. The sheer sweeps in and up quite sharply at the bow. I decided to make my gunwale from two pieces of wood and laminate them together in place on the boat. I brought some wood up from Virginia for this purpose.Some White Oak and some Black Cherry. The first job is to plane and rip the rough lumber down to the desired size and shape. I hope it goes without saying that you do not have to be this fancy I just like to make things difficult.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94WU7XnGuom5BaguyA8LP6ThiYTGV75ugY7ZexvmlEOSUVwQpQEOMEJQkPwCTRoKdA-Zj-wsofEFCDD83_LdcDWRzNW9jFI8KVmcFdY2F6E8Efmumsum_ZdWSgk2-A-xw-3gsLQQTmd8/s1600/P5080047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94WU7XnGuom5BaguyA8LP6ThiYTGV75ugY7ZexvmlEOSUVwQpQEOMEJQkPwCTRoKdA-Zj-wsofEFCDD83_LdcDWRzNW9jFI8KVmcFdY2F6E8Efmumsum_ZdWSgk2-A-xw-3gsLQQTmd8/s320/P5080047.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3XcTwA9-MPlZScRmIG9DOOfq3ulfIAhRSGyxpKdHU2480tBeqAoKEB_QXnve51Okcs2oI0FduPpWTFL95sP3UhuzycyRCoVzy-tBOYbMpvYFQSjk5DCI0mCRcH15KM8It1jnFFp_Sfko/s1600/P5080048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3XcTwA9-MPlZScRmIG9DOOfq3ulfIAhRSGyxpKdHU2480tBeqAoKEB_QXnve51Okcs2oI0FduPpWTFL95sP3UhuzycyRCoVzy-tBOYbMpvYFQSjk5DCI0mCRcH15KM8It1jnFFp_Sfko/s320/P5080048.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This is a wide board that a friend Michael Boethe Schmit gave to me many years ago. I have a base that is bolted to the bottom of my skill saw that runs along a guide board to give me a long straight cut.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_ziUNLT3IzKOFsz4FvmfQ5N9okeyS4wkiBG0dzB7-X2PenwxhyXDyNMA6L4SZaewSwMZaiJqXRuy6LCBdmASWIEc31EaPhA5QU0tCskt-EOqJLmN6lwo7F1HhVkYhhuNImcGaDw1wCw/s1600/P5080049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_ziUNLT3IzKOFsz4FvmfQ5N9okeyS4wkiBG0dzB7-X2PenwxhyXDyNMA6L4SZaewSwMZaiJqXRuy6LCBdmASWIEc31EaPhA5QU0tCskt-EOqJLmN6lwo7F1HhVkYhhuNImcGaDw1wCw/s320/P5080049.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Then the pieces get a pass through cousin Daves planner.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyMasIJ6b9jztuhKou1EENdpHPBA0Ylw8Mw9aRaPEW_QnMv-HBwn4XASni_KxP0C4UGWb9juCPisj8TM7VMUPjM1QZ21hK9HiYsOKglg-T8h5OfZSEbwPH-iHQse0Whqy61wWyHqlVV0A/s1600/P5100050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyMasIJ6b9jztuhKou1EENdpHPBA0Ylw8Mw9aRaPEW_QnMv-HBwn4XASni_KxP0C4UGWb9juCPisj8TM7VMUPjM1QZ21hK9HiYsOKglg-T8h5OfZSEbwPH-iHQse0Whqy61wWyHqlVV0A/s320/P5100050.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHh3C8IWXMZ8FSSrAkE0APtD44Wr6chaDUdsfaEA_ZSKxhomanSbFEKamzrKKpIKCsfdvYmn1wwpM8EjH0SGx_5TOWz0jzeLMwMe4JB01xcIcfEJfFMSCAHUCn8P6NgzS5Lh333-_9Y8o/s1600/P5100052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHh3C8IWXMZ8FSSrAkE0APtD44Wr6chaDUdsfaEA_ZSKxhomanSbFEKamzrKKpIKCsfdvYmn1wwpM8EjH0SGx_5TOWz0jzeLMwMe4JB01xcIcfEJfFMSCAHUCn8P6NgzS5Lh333-_9Y8o/s320/P5100052.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Fingerboards help make for a consistent cut and save fingers. I made my inner wale L shaped so it covers the top edge of the plywood sides. The strip of white oak was passed through the router to give it a rounded shape. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS1YfPo_2DSA5VdcSjFb1OALl8thJmSowMJiTEkR41pCDobTnVPtvlnDUgAhxj4N770pe6ljr0FsAdnPddh47NpnerG6tFELq9k3f17mkp__xa14hz4SCw8LfzKIbw0QFNmOrXBnDSi24/s1600/P5160055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS1YfPo_2DSA5VdcSjFb1OALl8thJmSowMJiTEkR41pCDobTnVPtvlnDUgAhxj4N770pe6ljr0FsAdnPddh47NpnerG6tFELq9k3f17mkp__xa14hz4SCw8LfzKIbw0QFNmOrXBnDSi24/s320/P5160055.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I left the gunwale long at the bow so I had something to grab and pull with to wrestle the the gunwale into the curve at the bow. A piece of light rope and a pile of clamps are holding the port gunwale in place while the epoxy sets.<br />
<br />
Next goes the outer oak strip held with clamps and temporary drywall screws.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqSypQ_xXWfZ46yUs-TwyxGZNwzM2i366VaEZo8sznh4Pl8jtww5xSA4_sB1N6lPkZDMLaBy52qugvzVcIZVPcYlcvnxSQXMbH-SJYuPGAYmD4SOCwySomwsqE-kRFCsDWmjW3YpKxDI/s1600/P5210056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqSypQ_xXWfZ46yUs-TwyxGZNwzM2i366VaEZo8sznh4Pl8jtww5xSA4_sB1N6lPkZDMLaBy52qugvzVcIZVPcYlcvnxSQXMbH-SJYuPGAYmD4SOCwySomwsqE-kRFCsDWmjW3YpKxDI/s320/P5210056.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-52402609526567812292013-05-10T18:31:00.001-07:002013-06-16T03:13:25.484-07:00Honestly I can quit anytime I want<span style="font-size: small;">True I haven't quite finished Skorpa. I have had her ou<span style="font-size: small;">t for several sails and two overnights but <span style="font-size: small;">neither the staysail or the spinnaker has been rigged. I need to apply some nonskid paint to the cockpit area. I also plan to build a cook box. A few other little projects.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">So I haven't quite finished my first boat and only launche<span style="font-size: small;">d her</span> about 6 months ago and yet, I have started on a Spindrift 10. This is a kit version of a 10 foot sailing dinghy designed by Graham Byrnes.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I am thinking of a small fun boat that an adult or child of moderate experience could take out on the<span style="font-size: small;">ir</span> own. </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibq49qfEal-RcHYtY2nFVxuTsswrP3c_nDCpqIEi2WmHVMulMCyJM_UFxqDJp6AScKzNkuNby8TiaBWyKTtOFlJ4Pbue1A2czhmnf3RTW3_mf0RtNlEycd0Jjjd4-XJz-mSzHu1UAppJE/s1600/IMG_6825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibq49qfEal-RcHYtY2nFVxuTsswrP3c_nDCpqIEi2WmHVMulMCyJM_UFxqDJp6AScKzNkuNby8TiaBWyKTtOFlJ4Pbue1A2czhmnf3RTW3_mf0RtNlEycd0Jjjd4-XJz-mSzHu1UAppJE/s320/IMG_6825.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I ordered the complete kit. It comes with almost everything epoxy, hardware, sails, all the plywood pieces cut out on Grahams computer controlled CNC machine. There are only a few pieces like the gunwales and the seat stringers that you have to find on your own.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvkXUZOWimos6IS5PNOnpCN5FLFVyfUFZTm_f6_4zkQOBlMA9FZwmRaYMDm5XycWHsdW7MO8N-B3q832aHDovs0d8aEWgybQj_pppReLMFIA6wV7pcx5bCf95HiSEtPDA8Q513-0IrAE/s1600/IMG_6830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvkXUZOWimos6IS5PNOnpCN5FLFVyfUFZTm_f6_4zkQOBlMA9FZwmRaYMDm5XycWHsdW7MO8N-B3q832aHDovs0d8aEWgybQj_pppReLMFIA6wV7pcx5bCf95HiSEtPDA8Q513-0IrAE/s320/IMG_6830.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I have been thinking there might come a time when I could help someone else build a boat, and the Spindrift might just be the right boat.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj7N6V2jvNzvVP1DeEgpYW07a5NY8__j3PowuXvnZ6Z-U-zrs-kKZ7Fm2QGTDEmcU_pdOs5JmKNjyu7myfrECktwj1dF06DwKP0yNC8sbY-6R2xqJZOQWA-dz9GcEeqRAydj2wxYic17k/s1600/IMG_6832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj7N6V2jvNzvVP1DeEgpYW07a5NY8__j3PowuXvnZ6Z-U-zrs-kKZ7Fm2QGTDEmcU_pdOs5JmKNjyu7myfrECktwj1dF06DwKP0yNC8sbY-6R2xqJZOQWA-dz9GcEeqRAydj2wxYic17k/s320/IMG_6832.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
All the pieces come in an 8 foot box and are cut from 8 foot plywood so there has to be a way to make the longer pieces and that is the first job. Graham uses his CNC machine to cut a stepped ramp into the plywood. This mates with a similar ramp cut into the piece of plywood to be joined. I first coat the joint with unthickened epoxy after that soaks in for awhile I coat the joint with thickened epoxy and then clamp.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4C_sUFhtltQISnLhB4JeVg1rZ8JgBusfntAFXfo4CSMIQOpgajxDQAILJOd3yeS_7AvuVGH23IRKAbSoo7y2Z5KGjB5x8gVWQdeoGR2MTle2kHu5sut120C-Fz6HeqQMjJbnTKfSBgUA/s1600/IMG_6833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4C_sUFhtltQISnLhB4JeVg1rZ8JgBusfntAFXfo4CSMIQOpgajxDQAILJOd3yeS_7AvuVGH23IRKAbSoo7y2Z5KGjB5x8gVWQdeoGR2MTle2kHu5sut120C-Fz6HeqQMjJbnTKfSBgUA/s320/IMG_6833.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The tricky part is to make sure the pieces are perfectly lined up. The steps cut into the joint help with this, but still once you smear the joint with glue and cover it with plastic and boards to apply even pressure it is difficult to know if the pieces are still lined up. This is the first part of assembling the kit ,but it requires a certian amount of precision. Best advice is to do some careful dry runs and try to come up with a way of knowing if the parts are in proper alignment even after they are clamped. Dry wall screws and clamps are used to squeeze the glued up panels between the scrap 1X8's and the work table.It is very difficult to develop adequate pressure with weights.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrahYPrIgdIbtvprnMX0iGI8y6ohvVDsv2lPye48OmHe6phYX4BompdtJlbf70060yKR10bnuxfq-2OjKjmMZACDg3fVoyeROtpW5lsCPb7T5pJAy-SOrV0y3UggBZDE-AKtcdXwEHFgA/s1600/IMG_6834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrahYPrIgdIbtvprnMX0iGI8y6ohvVDsv2lPye48OmHe6phYX4BompdtJlbf70060yKR10bnuxfq-2OjKjmMZACDg3fVoyeROtpW5lsCPb7T5pJAy-SOrV0y3UggBZDE-AKtcdXwEHFgA/s320/IMG_6834.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
On the left are the bottom panels glued and clamped. On the right are the side panels glued and clamped.<br />
Next the side panels are joined to the bottom, but only for a short distance maybe eight inches at the bow.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUbhsx5O-62HqctSBzSypp2h_rROaQb_JaRJYR6cUejsX2letAipFjV8chxgs00ORa-sXo4J9XXhZ_h79pqPxZXof3qEarm7Uf4WVHzhWhcLU7MLDpCs87dLap3Gd_FigZUFvsOZYJyA/s1600/IMG_6838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUbhsx5O-62HqctSBzSypp2h_rROaQb_JaRJYR6cUejsX2letAipFjV8chxgs00ORa-sXo4J9XXhZ_h79pqPxZXof3qEarm7Uf4WVHzhWhcLU7MLDpCs87dLap3Gd_FigZUFvsOZYJyA/s320/IMG_6838.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVkvpEkd0q-GCWoc05zfxvVTy0POCvwHqaqWz5LIH08y_cAHgCSdjxbJSf6-01c7FOCqxV8dSJvLNGtyiRmUtWkvISCZGdFUq4UgUI85gqlcMJXgOuROSvQfALH7vi7kwnpg9dhI7eeI/s1600/IMG_6837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
Graham has fashioned a kind of jig saw puzzle cut to help insure the panels are locked into their proper alignment. The side and bottom panels, port and starboard are all stacked up together and glued. Fiberglass tape is used to reinforce the joint and port and starboard are glued on top of each other so they will match perfectly. <br />
<br />
After the epoxy has fully cured short pieces of wire are used to loosely stitch the two halves together. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVkvpEkd0q-GCWoc05zfxvVTy0POCvwHqaqWz5LIH08y_cAHgCSdjxbJSf6-01c7FOCqxV8dSJvLNGtyiRmUtWkvISCZGdFUq4UgUI85gqlcMJXgOuROSvQfALH7vi7kwnpg9dhI7eeI/s1600/IMG_6837.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVkvpEkd0q-GCWoc05zfxvVTy0POCvwHqaqWz5LIH08y_cAHgCSdjxbJSf6-01c7FOCqxV8dSJvLNGtyiRmUtWkvISCZGdFUq4UgUI85gqlcMJXgOuROSvQfALH7vi7kwnpg9dhI7eeI/s320/IMG_6837.JPG" width="320" /></a> <br />
This is called a butterfly joint and the next step is referred to as going 3-D.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiud-Il20O-d9eZPVZfLX44SapiK5_gD8V1ojqomoW0aIM9YY44LFwn0loJnapFyjqlEsUq1TudrmC_I0k28TyFJE5eb9SASnmfkbYUiJmsAkW9Rf5GnGMzRHToxbkts4WA3tGGFGeL-4A/s1600/IMG_6840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiud-Il20O-d9eZPVZfLX44SapiK5_gD8V1ojqomoW0aIM9YY44LFwn0loJnapFyjqlEsUq1TudrmC_I0k28TyFJE5eb9SASnmfkbYUiJmsAkW9Rf5GnGMzRHToxbkts4WA3tGGFGeL-4A/s320/IMG_6840.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
There are some warning that the plywood will be highly stressed during this step and could crack. I soaked the forward section overnight with damp towels and a heating pad. Moving the assembly and trying to open it is very awkward and nerve wracking because of the risk of cracking. Fortunately had a good assistant.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4FgaaSq5nLSohE3OnXXbtUnMe0Abn7D3uAo0rvu_iBTsKv_RP8v5yKuQgbo3x5dLYLSzKXAqWnA7nbyzHiwXTmu02NTMBfGQtGP4ZqwGx4X5yenDc8PmeLkQl5stK3t3VMzHjhuy7w4/s1600/IMG_6841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4FgaaSq5nLSohE3OnXXbtUnMe0Abn7D3uAo0rvu_iBTsKv_RP8v5yKuQgbo3x5dLYLSzKXAqWnA7nbyzHiwXTmu02NTMBfGQtGP4ZqwGx4X5yenDc8PmeLkQl5stK3t3VMzHjhuy7w4/s320/IMG_6841.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Three patient assistants would be ideal. The long plywood panels want to flop this way or that.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2D9WnWczX-bFic-EXjQzDK7CHlOMSs9VwcQkgHpI1NHCl4E20ZDMhAllsb95CA_JVIJNN2ourH_nS6pwn6ECkVQVcJaCMFF6EGTXcmW9pY_L1YFoEXYuhye50myGCPvhWwsBsM3CRfM/s1600/IMG_6842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2D9WnWczX-bFic-EXjQzDK7CHlOMSs9VwcQkgHpI1NHCl4E20ZDMhAllsb95CA_JVIJNN2ourH_nS6pwn6ECkVQVcJaCMFF6EGTXcmW9pY_L1YFoEXYuhye50myGCPvhWwsBsM3CRfM/s320/IMG_6842.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I tied the side panels up to the ceiling because there were only two of us.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXvSInQCu-Lb2zXbxAiS6hGlbUbUQFJxt8zpryrEjSGRGybRCa35bOGhsgz3U4bN4BdQXbOcDLuWFGGCEwu7Uk2Y4uCYWHK4800jVzZ1Bcqz76CvURu0kdwxWLBMbg7EZEqL_qzVXp1Pw/s1600/IMG_6844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXvSInQCu-Lb2zXbxAiS6hGlbUbUQFJxt8zpryrEjSGRGybRCa35bOGhsgz3U4bN4BdQXbOcDLuWFGGCEwu7Uk2Y4uCYWHK4800jVzZ1Bcqz76CvURu0kdwxWLBMbg7EZEqL_qzVXp1Pw/s320/IMG_6844.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Totally amazing to see the flat panels morph into a boat so quickly. I had to apply a fair amount of pressure to open the panels and then the sides wrap back around. The pieces had been so well designed and precisely cut that they went together perfectly.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyqYhEesRocBieAydA-Wt6GN8XHg_1emEp7rLLD6DsbegvvVAEvFzLwinUtuGOntZK6r49QNmDOEbVEPjWs2S8yPkP-Lh6sncYhlE9xKX-ezxFUHVJZ4sRksSRkfVgoc3VxB8Sbwmgi7I/s1600/IMG_6845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyqYhEesRocBieAydA-Wt6GN8XHg_1emEp7rLLD6DsbegvvVAEvFzLwinUtuGOntZK6r49QNmDOEbVEPjWs2S8yPkP-Lh6sncYhlE9xKX-ezxFUHVJZ4sRksSRkfVgoc3VxB8Sbwmgi7I/s320/IMG_6845.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWM8XmI8jd9e1BbBjqHDP8a2bhNFBxW6e2r10G3DuQ2vylDKnvesaTF0luSW3_tdT7QHbj6JCBPk-y9r-wJWy05YrCYUeJmjqFznzEPqzqOHBSpMnWgBogpfLAwnWN_lZuWCCBwFa_RiE/s1600/IMG_6846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWM8XmI8jd9e1BbBjqHDP8a2bhNFBxW6e2r10G3DuQ2vylDKnvesaTF0luSW3_tdT7QHbj6JCBPk-y9r-wJWy05YrCYUeJmjqFznzEPqzqOHBSpMnWgBogpfLAwnWN_lZuWCCBwFa_RiE/s320/IMG_6846.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
You have to do a little firm persuading to get the panels to conform to the shape of the temporary center bulkhead and the permanent forward bulkhead.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0NpXIZH4lBVhUTQvikNSViHGeTDOw9dzeay65D8kIY2uMdVUUHGoRV-g5pOMnMznioKn7g6F-KPifbHD35K4ub7HdPGbMAh7XX1uan1r-NAherH8Sd1V9fOyGRah_UWh7wi54SnDACgU/s1600/IMG_6847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0NpXIZH4lBVhUTQvikNSViHGeTDOw9dzeay65D8kIY2uMdVUUHGoRV-g5pOMnMznioKn7g6F-KPifbHD35K4ub7HdPGbMAh7XX1uan1r-NAherH8Sd1V9fOyGRah_UWh7wi54SnDACgU/s320/IMG_6847.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The plywood bends a lot up near the bow, and takes on a very how can I say nautical look.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOU4KvCvkWph95pTBAFnAEcmcXirb3hNJjq6Phb3O1H5jqsLVqG0RztLca-Ep9j4DEvRCtdSFFScRt64MvBb0QDxXh7I8ZVgPUEn3oVMGrpUZvFJAikpXIs5drlWfzkhRcuQtaNnX-CDw/s1600/IMG_6848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOU4KvCvkWph95pTBAFnAEcmcXirb3hNJjq6Phb3O1H5jqsLVqG0RztLca-Ep9j4DEvRCtdSFFScRt64MvBb0QDxXh7I8ZVgPUEn3oVMGrpUZvFJAikpXIs5drlWfzkhRcuQtaNnX-CDw/s320/IMG_6848.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-63682857755655913572012-12-06T05:53:00.000-08:002012-12-06T05:59:33.691-08:00Pilgrimage to VandemereLaunching Skorpa, sailing her for the first time out the breachway and into the ocean, were important milestones but taking Skorpa to Vandemere the home of her designer was particularly memorable. Our trip was a bittersweet mixture of fulfillment and disappointment. Graham Byrnes the designer of the EC 22 hosts an annual gathering at his shop on the water there. Sally and I went a few days early and got some wonderful sailing in and stayed our first three nights on the boat.<br />
<b><i><span style="color: maroon;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Garamond;"> </span></span></span></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggzMy9JS_3MpGuc0vlDMz3XvDDgsjhcy_3c-lWHj6L8c4ab1a2S1bxHISjM4IiegIyDW2dtnZgekNzUkSPz-WDM5ledxqMiw-TUmvVugLLwKr7LWMuoISBtojCWAVuaiSFYDprmHJjKjs/s1600/IMG_6565.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggzMy9JS_3MpGuc0vlDMz3XvDDgsjhcy_3c-lWHj6L8c4ab1a2S1bxHISjM4IiegIyDW2dtnZgekNzUkSPz-WDM5ledxqMiw-TUmvVugLLwKr7LWMuoISBtojCWAVuaiSFYDprmHJjKjs/s320/IMG_6565.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i><span style="color: maroon;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Garamond;"> </span></span></span></i></b>On Thursday Graham decide to postpone the gathering until the following week as Hurricane Sandy was prowling up the coast. I had been looking forward to seeing some friends that we had met at previous gatherings and sharing my boat with others, but there was no way that Sally and I could stay an additional week. On Friday evening Graham and Alan, an experienced sailor who works for Graham came out with me for a sail. It was cloudy but we had some nice wind. Usually I am the most experienced sailor on board and when the wind picks up I feel a little tense, nervous, concerned for the safety of the boat and anyone with me. With Alan and Graham aboard that was all lifted from me and we just soared along.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmKlrTAv7SiUPWmhe5L7Rhpywe6g3lLv7O87OKgCmRS69WcuS8GU7M43r-1MUzAEPPuLNXKMITrOk_wX0VCylZLh9O9r3c-LsW2EsXkrhdHp2KjJ5YLBIdz_hHnVhvxSwToEVx2yyMFg/s1600/IMG_6584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmKlrTAv7SiUPWmhe5L7Rhpywe6g3lLv7O87OKgCmRS69WcuS8GU7M43r-1MUzAEPPuLNXKMITrOk_wX0VCylZLh9O9r3c-LsW2EsXkrhdHp2KjJ5YLBIdz_hHnVhvxSwToEVx2yyMFg/s320/IMG_6584.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Since I started work on this boat Graham has become a friend and mentor so it was very special to go for a sail with him and see how pleased he is with the boat. You can see the clouds associated with the approach of Hurricane Sandy. The winds were beginning to pick up but they were still a very manageable 10-15 knots<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbLMc_5rrXGlSUReN4BtARBuJOiDff5EH_qbRMW70peax6TtOQCWiDpqk92BEJ5nY_hPH-FvWzoThovBKwK9oxjm1S7AZ3UHAroiNRZrUbsKpWXn0LqGan8BAVtKF-CbiHDSOk5Qx6xJk/s1600/IMG_6578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbLMc_5rrXGlSUReN4BtARBuJOiDff5EH_qbRMW70peax6TtOQCWiDpqk92BEJ5nY_hPH-FvWzoThovBKwK9oxjm1S7AZ3UHAroiNRZrUbsKpWXn0LqGan8BAVtKF-CbiHDSOk5Qx6xJk/s320/IMG_6578.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Graham had tweaked the EC 22 design somewhat after his extensive experience with Southern Skimmer. Skorpa is the first boat built to this updated design. The design changes included some minor increases in the scantlings. Graham built Southern Simmer to be as light as possible. He has not experienced any structural failures even though he pushes his boat very hard, still he felt a few places should be beefed up a bit before the design was turned loose to the general public. Skimmer did exhibit some lee helm. It was necessary to use the rudder to prevent the boat from turning down wind. Graham addressed this issue by moving the mizzen mast aft a little and the centerboard forward slightly. This brought the boat into balance so little or no rudder effort is necessary to keep the boat going on course. You can see in the above photo that Alan is not applying much force on the tiller and the rudder is nearly centered.<br />
<br />
Graham is not as expressive as Alan but they both had high praise for Skorpa. Both of these guys have a huge amount of experience pushing boats to their limits.<br />
<br />
Graham liked the way I had extended the cabin 6 inches further forward and the way I finished the cabin interior adding a small navigation table/galley.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJorQZTY49KAR3Ds2CVNI81WTGjGcUoKU6VaJZnPQ-io42BngqiWZncEjoA8prxJdl0FSx8HwR5BQr9CjTKqsSt2AsF4dl3lzq_iftcQOOVr2vdldZ5csQTO2yNkw24mA8ZrZfqpPie8/s1600/IMG_5576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJorQZTY49KAR3Ds2CVNI81WTGjGcUoKU6VaJZnPQ-io42BngqiWZncEjoA8prxJdl0FSx8HwR5BQr9CjTKqsSt2AsF4dl3lzq_iftcQOOVr2vdldZ5csQTO2yNkw24mA8ZrZfqpPie8/s320/IMG_5576.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Graham suggested that I apply some non skid paint to the cockpit. That was already on my to do list as the seats get slippery. He also had some ideas for making reefing easier. Alan had some ideas on how to better route the halyards. I would have loved to stay longer and to sail some more with Alan and Graham but Sandy was knocking at the door and Sally and I thought it was best for us to head inland.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7zxaN0mTsmlXLaJ-MSe0v7SJvwUf-8v0Apq2bUQ_2x9m_Mli8oH60KW4ifJjC0Ms7lRUrv-bVStUmex4XjVczmNgWpc6VJDegLmv9FsqYl4K9tGntqalKF-W5UfBL8Bij7JZKZ1JW8s0/s1600/IMG_6580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7zxaN0mTsmlXLaJ-MSe0v7SJvwUf-8v0Apq2bUQ_2x9m_Mli8oH60KW4ifJjC0Ms7lRUrv-bVStUmex4XjVczmNgWpc6VJDegLmv9FsqYl4K9tGntqalKF-W5UfBL8Bij7JZKZ1JW8s0/s320/IMG_6580.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Saturday afternoon Sally and I packed up and headed home to Ferrum.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i><span style="color: maroon;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Garamond;"> </span></span></span></i></b>
<br />
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388865164934016667.post-89815740202230457372012-11-08T14:30:00.000-08:002012-11-09T16:55:36.707-08:00A few projects finished upI struggled for quite awhile working on sail covers. I was not able to try them on until we were all the way down in Vandemere for the 2012 Mess About.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjCZ0oweMgtmJCIG2Z6FRQk1m4HUJIfjWaS0w9rFhos3zOHXZLCR_mXXW7_U0aK9AXuj4s2XTJ5-VglN0ubSjFoRVol1OwabN-jJzmVJpGNBBXbFDH-mg7WBXaChBK4tnnhdzu8HW5Xmw/s1600/IMG_6567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjCZ0oweMgtmJCIG2Z6FRQk1m4HUJIfjWaS0w9rFhos3zOHXZLCR_mXXW7_U0aK9AXuj4s2XTJ5-VglN0ubSjFoRVol1OwabN-jJzmVJpGNBBXbFDH-mg7WBXaChBK4tnnhdzu8HW5Xmw/s320/IMG_6567.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Another project I have been working on are my oars. I did a turkish knot to act as a keeper for the oarlocks. I was not able to give them a test until our Virginia boat launch at Philpott Lake.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszpBxajq90zUMPptIuijUSKO-9Dg5rNJqpFslmn7jElM0ioRwauS685GOgot4UTQ22H1czgNZzpzR0f_XuFO6jxr5znn2JBWrf7KY9hyphenhyphenKrlf3TmsJ7fu_8fULL8XO1Mat3-jdiSR_GAA/s1600/IMG_6644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszpBxajq90zUMPptIuijUSKO-9Dg5rNJqpFslmn7jElM0ioRwauS685GOgot4UTQ22H1czgNZzpzR0f_XuFO6jxr5znn2JBWrf7KY9hyphenhyphenKrlf3TmsJ7fu_8fULL8XO1Mat3-jdiSR_GAA/s320/IMG_6644.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The boat is pretty large to be rowing but I was able to move along fairly well. Of course as you can see there was not any wind or waves to deal with. Keeping track of where I am going is a bit awkward as I have to stand up a little and look over my shoulder. I found it relatively comfortable to row either sitting or standing. I did not have time to try rowing any great distance but I am sure my time will come. Of course long ago I had made the decision not to have an outboard for auxiliary power.<br />
<br />
The basic turkish knot has three lines that weave in and around each other. You then follow those lines with multiple passes until the knot fills out. I decided to try a turkish knot that has five leads. It was a lot more difficult to get started. It results in a knot that is a little wider.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8vx4n4SkIt-HVuycCi0WlZw20mWHD1MYZZkoNMKNRauC7SFwV-5InGjPnVfy-E0cFojX6a6Hh7ZNPdoV854PsdKgkmoMRILrqGB5OO-9b-yC_wnUYF60oHpz3OXRtQvxfwscB_9xVnTg/s1600/IMG_6649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8vx4n4SkIt-HVuycCi0WlZw20mWHD1MYZZkoNMKNRauC7SFwV-5InGjPnVfy-E0cFojX6a6Hh7ZNPdoV854PsdKgkmoMRILrqGB5OO-9b-yC_wnUYF60oHpz3OXRtQvxfwscB_9xVnTg/s320/IMG_6649.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Sundoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07874919778032381498noreply@blogger.com0