WOW what a week. It has been several days of 60+ miles days and we finally arrived at North West Creek marina yesterday afternoon after one of the best travelling days ever!!
We spent a layday in Charleston on the 17th for weather. It was a day of several thunderstorms so a good time to relax and provision a bit. On the 18th we left out Charleston Inlet to run offshore up to Winyah bay to anchor for the night. Once near the turning point in the inlet we turned towards the heading we would use for the trip and it was too rolly for our testes. It was a shame because we had a favorable current going out at 7+ knots and now we turned back in at 5kts to return and head up the ICW. We made the Ben Sawyer bridge right at low tide and there are trouble areas just north of there so I opted to anchor for an our before going on. One of the reasons I did not want to repeat the ICW. We made it okay but fought current most of the day and finally arrived at the south Santee river for the night to anchor.
The next morning we headed up the ICW towards Georgetown, SC and on to Barefoot landing. It was a very long day of more than 13 hours. The current was against us all day and we averaged only 5.2 knots to run 62 miles and arrived at 7pm. We took a slip and were happy to finally arrive -- no anchorages here.
We were off the next morning at 6:15am and had a fast favorable current all the way to Wrightsville Beach for a total of 72 miles -- longest run on this trip. Fortunately they had dredged the inlets this spring. We hit Shallotte Inlet an hour before low tide and made it across seeing a low water of 7.2 feet. Then on to the troublesome Lockwood Folly. Hmmm we were going to hit it at dead low tide and today that was .6 feet below the average. I anchored for an hour before going through. I wanted to be on the rising side. We made it through there with a low of 6.2 feet!! That's close but no bump. We anchored in Wrightsville beach around 6:30pm and enjoyed another night on the boat. Well maybe "enjoyed" is not the word. There are now hundreds of small boat operators here and they have absolutely no respect for anchored boats. We rocked and rolled from the wakes till dark then had a comfortable night on the hook. Wrightsville is not one of my favorite anchorages anymore.
The next morning we left about 6am to try and make Swansboro, NC. normally we would stop at Mile Hammock but we wanted to get home -- like the cows we could see the barn door and picked up the pace. This was another great run with favorable current. We made Southport around 2pm and fueled up at the marina just before southport. Then off into the Cape Fear river for the best run EVER. We were hitting 9.1 kts at times with the current and had favorable current all day to Wrightsville beach.
The next morning we were headed to Mile Hammock bay and possibly on to Swansboro. Wow -- another great day of favorable current. so we would go through as it was going up. That worked and we saw a low of 7.2 feet across the inlet. The marker bouys around 72 A nd B are not set right but the updated NOAA charts showed a "J hook" path through the shoal area and we used that rather than the buoys. We hit Mile hammock around 2pm and kept going to Swansboro. The wind was favorable and we motor sailed arriving around 5:30pm. Unfortunately the anchorage is not very good. I anchored in the White Oak anchorage years before on Luna Sea and wrapped the anchor line around the keel. It took an hour to clear. Tonight it would be worse with 20+ kts from the SW hitting us and a very strong current. However the Rocna Anchor did us proud and stuck on the first attempt and held all night. It was noisy when the current switched 180 degrees at midnight and we were pushed forward over the anchor for awhile. In the morning all was fine and the anchor came up with no hitch although I needed boat power to break it loose. It was really stuck well.
Yesterday was my finest run ever! We left Swansboro just after 6am and headed for North West Creek Marina expecting to arrive around 7pm. We fought the current for about 2 miles to the Bogue Inlet then the dogs of hell were unleashed. We had a favorable current and ran at 7.2 kts + all the way to the Morehead City Turning basin. Made it in just 2 and 1/4 hours. We slowed down through the turning basin then went under the Morehead 70 high Rise and the speed jumped to 7.0+ and held all the way to the Neuse. Unbelievable.
Once on the Neuse with the wind gusting to the low 20s on the nose we ran at 5.6kts most of the way to the marina. We arrived at just after 3pm -- an unbelievable run. Once at the marina I went to the gas dock to pump out and top my diesel off and I really didn't want to go to the slip in this strong wind with no lines rigged. Since they were out of diesel they let us stay the night on the gas dock and it was welcome.
Today my crew -- Jill and Wayne Poston -- left me to return home. They wanted a Budget Rental car and the closest that was available was in Richlands, NC at the Albert Ellis Airport or about 62 miles from here. It was a pleasant trip through the most remote areas of NC top\ get there!! They are off on the way home and I'm back on Temptation offloading all kinds of stuff and planning to leave here on Tuesday for a trip home. Wow I've been gone since June 5th!
Sunday, July 23, 2017
Sunday, July 16, 2017
Outsiders
Yep we be outsiders. Yesterday we ran inside from Beach Marine marina to Cumberland Island where we anchored for the night. We tried to buy fuel in Fernandina but the gas dock there is still out of order since hurricane Matthew last October! Damn we need to modify the plan. After a discussion we decided we had enough fuel on board to run outside to Charleston, SC the next day.
It was a pleasant evening at Cumberland then early in the morning - first light- we left out the L O N G St Marys inlet and headed for Charleston. Conditions were pretty good although we did have some roll. Later the wind piped up to 10 - 15 and we had a lot of roll. We reached the Sea Buoy at Savannah River just after dark. Man it was busy with anchored boats and 4 going in and one out. These are not small boats but large 500+ freighters and container ships. The one coming out was headed for us. I checked his name on AIS and he hadn't seen us yet, We negoitiated that he would pass my stern -- all is well now.
We just headed for Charleston in this rolly motion all night. Wasn't dangerous but very uncomfortable however we knew we were shaving 6 days off a passage up the ICW and numerous white knuckle shallow areas.
Wayne and Jill were able to get some sleep but I was up all night with just 4 - 20 minute cat naps. I took an hour nap after tying up this morning and will get the rest tonight.
The mega docks are not so great anymore. It was not crowded but it took 20 minutes to get a dock hand to catch our lines for a transient slip. With lots of rain expected this afternoon and tomorrow we will spend a couple of days here then it is back to heading to New Bern.
Ohhh I feel good to be bypassing all of Georgia and southern South Carolina. Man the ICW is very poor in those areas as well as several areas in NC.
It was a pleasant evening at Cumberland then early in the morning - first light- we left out the L O N G St Marys inlet and headed for Charleston. Conditions were pretty good although we did have some roll. Later the wind piped up to 10 - 15 and we had a lot of roll. We reached the Sea Buoy at Savannah River just after dark. Man it was busy with anchored boats and 4 going in and one out. These are not small boats but large 500+ freighters and container ships. The one coming out was headed for us. I checked his name on AIS and he hadn't seen us yet, We negoitiated that he would pass my stern -- all is well now.
We just headed for Charleston in this rolly motion all night. Wasn't dangerous but very uncomfortable however we knew we were shaving 6 days off a passage up the ICW and numerous white knuckle shallow areas.
Wayne and Jill were able to get some sleep but I was up all night with just 4 - 20 minute cat naps. I took an hour nap after tying up this morning and will get the rest tonight.
The mega docks are not so great anymore. It was not crowded but it took 20 minutes to get a dock hand to catch our lines for a transient slip. With lots of rain expected this afternoon and tomorrow we will spend a couple of days here then it is back to heading to New Bern.
Ohhh I feel good to be bypassing all of Georgia and southern South Carolina. Man the ICW is very poor in those areas as well as several areas in NC.
Thursday, July 13, 2017
Making Tracks
Ohh boy we have had a couple of good days cruising. Tuesday we did 60 miles from Titusville to Daytona, Wednesday was a half day to Palm Coast Marina for food and laundry and fuel and a pump out. I really like Palm Coast marina. So friendly and helpful. I like it so much -- I bought the T-shirt! Don't think I had an easy day though. I found my fresh water pump leaking at the pressure switch I repaired and then replaced it with the old one. I retied the spring line while leaning on a lifeline and it Broke big time sending me to the space between the dock and boat. Like a cat I reclaimed my balance nearly instantly at the expense of several pulled muscles. Damn getting old is a bitch.
After a temporary fix to the lifeline and a slightly less leaky switch on the fresh water pump we went to dinner at an India restaurant at the European village. Food was very good and I found a beer I need again. It's Indian and called Kingfisher.
Today we left at 7am and made the Mantazas inlet area about 2 hours after low tide. It is notorious for shallow water. It was good to it's reputation. As I started across it the depths dropped to 6.2 feet! Then came up. We didn't ground but got real close. The rest of the trip was with good depths and a favorable current all the way. WE blew past St Augustine and made it through the bridge of lions at 11am. Up around Pine Island we had to cruise through very dense smoke from a wild fire. We pushed on to Beach Marine Marina as the tide was following. We took a slip there because the next anchorage was 12 miles away and we were 1 hour from low tide and those anchorages are no good then.
I stopped in this marina 12 years ago on my first trip to the Bahamas. It is much larger now but about half is still damaged from hurricane Matthew last fall. We are just here tonight and then will press on tomorrow.
Sorry but no more sharing of the plan forward. Every time I have indicated that plan it has changed. From now on you will hear only about what we have done.
Overall today was a GREAT cruising day, and note ---- we are now in North Florida!!
After a temporary fix to the lifeline and a slightly less leaky switch on the fresh water pump we went to dinner at an India restaurant at the European village. Food was very good and I found a beer I need again. It's Indian and called Kingfisher.
Today we left at 7am and made the Mantazas inlet area about 2 hours after low tide. It is notorious for shallow water. It was good to it's reputation. As I started across it the depths dropped to 6.2 feet! Then came up. We didn't ground but got real close. The rest of the trip was with good depths and a favorable current all the way. WE blew past St Augustine and made it through the bridge of lions at 11am. Up around Pine Island we had to cruise through very dense smoke from a wild fire. We pushed on to Beach Marine Marina as the tide was following. We took a slip there because the next anchorage was 12 miles away and we were 1 hour from low tide and those anchorages are no good then.
I stopped in this marina 12 years ago on my first trip to the Bahamas. It is much larger now but about half is still damaged from hurricane Matthew last fall. We are just here tonight and then will press on tomorrow.
Sorry but no more sharing of the plan forward. Every time I have indicated that plan it has changed. From now on you will hear only about what we have done.
Overall today was a GREAT cruising day, and note ---- we are now in North Florida!!
Tuesday, July 11, 2017
Pleasure Boaters
We are pleasure Boaters!
We left Ft Pearce Sunday morning and motored to dragon point for the night. Fought a terrific squall for about an hour. Rain so heavy we couldn't see marks and had to slow down and run on instruments. All clear at dragon point and went behind the swing bridge there and had the whole anchorage to ourselves. The area before the swing bridge is full of mooring balls now. It was hot, we were hot, so we ran the genset and had pleasant AC all night long for the cost of 5 gallons of diesel. Remember we are pleasure boaters.
Left early yesterday morning for the Canaveral canal. Along this we had to negotiate 2 bascule bridges and a canal lock. Once through all that we stopped at the Point Marina for fuel. Then we had to wait while a large cruise ship came in and turned in the turning basin to dock -- quite impressive. We had lunch aboard and left around 12:30pm and headed to sea. Conditions looked good. Wind under 10 knots with 2 feet seas mainly on the nose. We had to go 7 miles before we made the turn to head north. Now the seas were 2 - 4 feet with wind between 11-15. So much for the forecast 5 - 10 kts. . Once we turned the seas were mostly on the beam and rolling us miserably. We had 15 miles to go before we altered course again and the forecast was for more wind tonight. The stuff down below started making a lot of noises. We lasted 10 minutes then unanimously decided to go back in and head up inside to St Augustine and try this again. Remember pleasure boaters!
The ride back with the wind and waves just quartering on us gave a very smooth ride. Boy we could go like this for days but we had to get in. There was an adventure too with a large tanker coming in behind us. He was way out there then right on top of since he could go 16 kts to our 6 kts. The Pilot negotiated a passing scenario with me and all went well.
We got to the first bascule bridge and it was on a schedule now. We had to wait 40 minutes for it to open, then we did the lock and it was on demand but it is SLOW to operate. Then the last Bascule bridge was still on a schedule and we had to wait 25 minutes there. Now we were back in the ICW and it was 7pm. We ran for another hour up to Addison point bridge and anchored behind the causeway just as it was getting dark -- 8:15pm.
Wow a 13+ hour day and we had gone nearly 62 miles but in actuality only went 22 miles on the ICW.
The plan now is to go to Daytona today and anchor, then Palm coast marina tomorrow arriving at noon so we can do laundry and a grocery run, then onto St Augustine Thursday and either try the inlet and go offshore or maybe continue up the ICW.
Ohhh I like running the AC on anchor except for using 5 gals of diesel but it's worth it to pleasure boaters. We are sleeping like babies. I know sound like it too -- waaa waaa.
Just as I was feeling a little sorry about the new change of plans this morning I was sitting in the cockpit sipping my coffee and looking at all the cars on the NASA parkway heading to work. I felt better after that.
We left Ft Pearce Sunday morning and motored to dragon point for the night. Fought a terrific squall for about an hour. Rain so heavy we couldn't see marks and had to slow down and run on instruments. All clear at dragon point and went behind the swing bridge there and had the whole anchorage to ourselves. The area before the swing bridge is full of mooring balls now. It was hot, we were hot, so we ran the genset and had pleasant AC all night long for the cost of 5 gallons of diesel. Remember we are pleasure boaters.
Left early yesterday morning for the Canaveral canal. Along this we had to negotiate 2 bascule bridges and a canal lock. Once through all that we stopped at the Point Marina for fuel. Then we had to wait while a large cruise ship came in and turned in the turning basin to dock -- quite impressive. We had lunch aboard and left around 12:30pm and headed to sea. Conditions looked good. Wind under 10 knots with 2 feet seas mainly on the nose. We had to go 7 miles before we made the turn to head north. Now the seas were 2 - 4 feet with wind between 11-15. So much for the forecast 5 - 10 kts. . Once we turned the seas were mostly on the beam and rolling us miserably. We had 15 miles to go before we altered course again and the forecast was for more wind tonight. The stuff down below started making a lot of noises. We lasted 10 minutes then unanimously decided to go back in and head up inside to St Augustine and try this again. Remember pleasure boaters!
The ride back with the wind and waves just quartering on us gave a very smooth ride. Boy we could go like this for days but we had to get in. There was an adventure too with a large tanker coming in behind us. He was way out there then right on top of since he could go 16 kts to our 6 kts. The Pilot negotiated a passing scenario with me and all went well.
We got to the first bascule bridge and it was on a schedule now. We had to wait 40 minutes for it to open, then we did the lock and it was on demand but it is SLOW to operate. Then the last Bascule bridge was still on a schedule and we had to wait 25 minutes there. Now we were back in the ICW and it was 7pm. We ran for another hour up to Addison point bridge and anchored behind the causeway just as it was getting dark -- 8:15pm.
Wow a 13+ hour day and we had gone nearly 62 miles but in actuality only went 22 miles on the ICW.
The plan now is to go to Daytona today and anchor, then Palm coast marina tomorrow arriving at noon so we can do laundry and a grocery run, then onto St Augustine Thursday and either try the inlet and go offshore or maybe continue up the ICW.
Ohhh I like running the AC on anchor except for using 5 gals of diesel but it's worth it to pleasure boaters. We are sleeping like babies. I know sound like it too -- waaa waaa.
Just as I was feeling a little sorry about the new change of plans this morning I was sitting in the cockpit sipping my coffee and looking at all the cars on the NASA parkway heading to work. I felt better after that.
Wednesday, July 5, 2017
Happy 4th of July!
WOW -- they really know how to do up the 4th of July here in Ft Pierce. Fortunately for me the marina park is the center of the celebration. I can just walk there.
They set up a stage with a big band doing all kinds of music -- Jimmy Dorsett to Amy Winehouse.
The local power company came and set up a HUGE snorkle truck and flew one of the largest American Flags I have ever seen. You couldn't feel more proud being an American with that waving in the Palm trees.
I celebrated by putting up my festival flags to dress ship. Surprisingly I was the only boat decorated in the marina. It looked GREAT
They had all the street food vendors from the Farmer's market here too. The crowds just built all day with probably more than thousand here at night for the Fireworks.
The fireworks were very good but not GREAT. There was a distraction... a drone was flying above the fire works with flashing red and green lights. I'm sure he got some great video but we all waited to see if one of the fireworks would knock it down -- I know morbid. He did fine took a lot of video then came down to change batteries for the grand finale.
Sitting on the boat I had a great seat and very comfortable.
The plan is to leave here probably on Sunday to head North to New Bern. Jill and Wayne from Born to Cruise should arrive here on Saturday then it's off to the races. And it is a race a !#$%& tropical something may be threatening us by the mid to late next week. Hopefully we can run 2 days offshore to make Charleston ahead of that event which may not occur at all. Let's hope.
There are hundreds of pigeons here and they are well feed an smart. Look at these that are sitting on a dolphin fountain patiently waiting their turn for a drink.
Enjoy my pics today from the celebration.
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Still Here!!
Yep - still at the Fort Pierce City Marina. Sorry for the long delay since last blog.
I needed time to sort out our new direction since our plan to leave the boat at Brunswick Landing fell through and my desire to not move the boat north along the ICW through Georgia and Southern South Carolina.
I had to investigate several options which all take time because requests for information in the marine industry is a slow slow process. Phone calls not returned for days, emails not responded to for days if at all, etc.
I investigated getting the boat hauled out till the fall here but all the yards are already full. I wanted to see what that would do to my insurance but still no response. I could leave the boat here at the marina till October 1st but I am uncomfortable leaving the boat here during hurricane season. This marina did fine last year with hurricane Matthew and no boats here suffered damage. This marina is very well built (rebuilt in 2014 to FEMA standards).
We decided to take the boat back to North Carolina. Karen is not aboard right now because of the grueling heat and humidity. I don't really want to travel alone in this big ol boat but could if need be. I investigated hiring a delivery captain and of those that responded all were busy till mid July. The prices ranged from $200 a day to $550 a day with an extra crew at 100 - 150 a day plus food and provision and all travel expenses. On a trip that could take between 4 days and 14 days that could get very expensive.
Fortunately I reached out to old cruising friends Jill and Wayne from the Born to Cruise sailboat and they said they could help out. Thank You! It will be fun running up the east coast with friends. They too are not available until the second week of July so here I stay entertaining myself by doing all kinds of odd jobs on the sailboat.
Changed the main engine oil and filter, washed entire boat (free water here)and then waxed both top sides and hull. That took a few days because the sun is just too intense from 11am till 4pm. Lots of other miscellaneous stuff done too. Started cleaning and greasing the winches yesterday. No end to little jobs in site so I'm not bored.
There is also a good book exchange here so if I do run out of work then I have a lot to read.
I needed time to sort out our new direction since our plan to leave the boat at Brunswick Landing fell through and my desire to not move the boat north along the ICW through Georgia and Southern South Carolina.
I had to investigate several options which all take time because requests for information in the marine industry is a slow slow process. Phone calls not returned for days, emails not responded to for days if at all, etc.
I investigated getting the boat hauled out till the fall here but all the yards are already full. I wanted to see what that would do to my insurance but still no response. I could leave the boat here at the marina till October 1st but I am uncomfortable leaving the boat here during hurricane season. This marina did fine last year with hurricane Matthew and no boats here suffered damage. This marina is very well built (rebuilt in 2014 to FEMA standards).
We decided to take the boat back to North Carolina. Karen is not aboard right now because of the grueling heat and humidity. I don't really want to travel alone in this big ol boat but could if need be. I investigated hiring a delivery captain and of those that responded all were busy till mid July. The prices ranged from $200 a day to $550 a day with an extra crew at 100 - 150 a day plus food and provision and all travel expenses. On a trip that could take between 4 days and 14 days that could get very expensive.
Fortunately I reached out to old cruising friends Jill and Wayne from the Born to Cruise sailboat and they said they could help out. Thank You! It will be fun running up the east coast with friends. They too are not available until the second week of July so here I stay entertaining myself by doing all kinds of odd jobs on the sailboat.
Changed the main engine oil and filter, washed entire boat (free water here)and then waxed both top sides and hull. That took a few days because the sun is just too intense from 11am till 4pm. Lots of other miscellaneous stuff done too. Started cleaning and greasing the winches yesterday. No end to little jobs in site so I'm not bored.
There is also a good book exchange here so if I do run out of work then I have a lot to read.
Friday, June 16, 2017
Brain is squirming like a toad!
Aaaack my plans to leave the boat at Brunswick Landing Georgia have been dashed. No room now. They had space in early May but it is all gone now. Now I need a new plan.
I decided to go into the Marina at Vero Beach City and leave the boat for a month to look at options. I do NOT want to go up the ICW entirely. It is a mess in several places now. So what to do, what to do. They said I could stay til September 1. They put me on a face dock with weak, missing, loose cleats. I do not like leaving the boat only tied to a face dock with daily thunderstorms or worse expected. What to do, what to do. Hmmm go to the Publixs and grocery shop that's what. Got to eat. I've only been away from USA grocery store for a week and half but I acted like a kid in the candy store. Man I bought too much.
Thursday was a surprisingly rainy day -- all day. I did some boat projects - replaced the pump seals in forward head, cleaned aft head, and worked on diverter valve, read, and chatted but still no resolution on what to do. I kind of want to go back to NC but not up the ICW. A couple of days offshore is really too much for just 2 intrepid sailors and the weather is not good for the next week offshore. I could have the boat hauled out here but I don't like leaving a boat out of the water for an extended time. Maybe put together a team of three to return the boat to NC. What to do what to do.
Time to eat some crow and take Marks suggestion to go to the Fort Pierce City marina. He wanted to do that when we crossed into the Inlet Tuesday but I wanted Vero Beach. Fort Pierce City marina had great reviews on the docks there but there is a mean cross current in there. So I decided to go there and leave the boat for a month. I'll either have the boat hauled, stay at marina, or take it back to NC --- brain is squirming like a toad!
Today we left early to get to Fort Pierce at slack tide. Ohh boy now I have a favorable current all the way and even slowing the engine down 200 rpms and we still arrived about 45 minutes early. Still a current running but not bad then again it is nearly low tide. Ohhh man I can't win.
We worked our way through some confusing marks and the lowest water we saw was 6.7' -- I draw 5.5' so close. We made the marina which is much larger than I expected and the dock master guided us into a great slip. Only one slip away from all the amenities -- showers, office, laundry and the famous Tiki Hut. Wow the facilities are GREAT. Floating docks on massive pilings, thick concrete walkways, massive firmly attached cleats, and everything is super nice. All commercial washers and dryers. However in the check-in process every thing is printed on a dot matrix printer -- ever heard of one? 1970s technology. After lunch it was laundry time and the machines I used were just FINE. Unusual for a marina.
Temptation had one surprise for me. The fresh water pressure switch failed. It would not turn on the pump until all pressure ran out. Fortunately I had an extra and replaced it -- working fine now.
WOW this place is nice -- it is right downtown in Fort Pierce and all has been revitalized. We are going to have some fun exploring this place.
I decided to go into the Marina at Vero Beach City and leave the boat for a month to look at options. I do NOT want to go up the ICW entirely. It is a mess in several places now. So what to do, what to do. They said I could stay til September 1. They put me on a face dock with weak, missing, loose cleats. I do not like leaving the boat only tied to a face dock with daily thunderstorms or worse expected. What to do, what to do. Hmmm go to the Publixs and grocery shop that's what. Got to eat. I've only been away from USA grocery store for a week and half but I acted like a kid in the candy store. Man I bought too much.
Thursday was a surprisingly rainy day -- all day. I did some boat projects - replaced the pump seals in forward head, cleaned aft head, and worked on diverter valve, read, and chatted but still no resolution on what to do. I kind of want to go back to NC but not up the ICW. A couple of days offshore is really too much for just 2 intrepid sailors and the weather is not good for the next week offshore. I could have the boat hauled out here but I don't like leaving a boat out of the water for an extended time. Maybe put together a team of three to return the boat to NC. What to do what to do.
Time to eat some crow and take Marks suggestion to go to the Fort Pierce City marina. He wanted to do that when we crossed into the Inlet Tuesday but I wanted Vero Beach. Fort Pierce City marina had great reviews on the docks there but there is a mean cross current in there. So I decided to go there and leave the boat for a month. I'll either have the boat hauled, stay at marina, or take it back to NC --- brain is squirming like a toad!
Today we left early to get to Fort Pierce at slack tide. Ohh boy now I have a favorable current all the way and even slowing the engine down 200 rpms and we still arrived about 45 minutes early. Still a current running but not bad then again it is nearly low tide. Ohhh man I can't win.
We worked our way through some confusing marks and the lowest water we saw was 6.7' -- I draw 5.5' so close. We made the marina which is much larger than I expected and the dock master guided us into a great slip. Only one slip away from all the amenities -- showers, office, laundry and the famous Tiki Hut. Wow the facilities are GREAT. Floating docks on massive pilings, thick concrete walkways, massive firmly attached cleats, and everything is super nice. All commercial washers and dryers. However in the check-in process every thing is printed on a dot matrix printer -- ever heard of one? 1970s technology. After lunch it was laundry time and the machines I used were just FINE. Unusual for a marina.
Temptation had one surprise for me. The fresh water pressure switch failed. It would not turn on the pump until all pressure ran out. Fortunately I had an extra and replaced it -- working fine now.
WOW this place is nice -- it is right downtown in Fort Pierce and all has been revitalized. We are going to have some fun exploring this place.
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
Back in the USA!!
I'm Back...
Wow what a couple of days. We left Green Turtle Cay on Sunday and made the 60+ mile trip to Great Sale Cay and anchored for the night -- a 10 hour trip. Then Monday morning we waited until nearly 11am to head for Fort Pierce, FL - a 19 hour run with all of it over the Gulf Stream at night. I timed it so we would hit the inlet at daylight. I've never been in this inlet. With the delay and the run up to Vero it was actually a 23 hour run.
We had a great run across the banks and once we hit the Gulf stream I had to slow down -- yes slow down in a sail boat. We were going to get there at 4am or the dark. The sailing directions said this was a very rough inlet on an ebb tide and SE winds. Unfortunately that is what we found.
I had both hands on the steering since this is a narrow inlet and LOTS of current. I got scared at one point because without the engine we would end up on the jetty in a heart beat. I told Mark to get my very sharp serrated knife in case I had to drop an anchor quickly. Both anchors were tied down for the crossing. It was slow and we made it in. I then decided to go onto Vero Beach City Marina rather than go to the Fort Pierce City marina because we would have to stop in Vero for provisioning anyway.
The run across the Gulf Stream was as forecast with 2 -3 foot waves but they were directly astern and we could not sail without beating the Genoa to death. It was a very rolly ride. How rolly? While at the restaurant for lunch both Mark and I felt like we were rolling in our chairs -- uncomfortable. Nice to be bouncing on the boat on a mooring tonight.
Boy the Vero Beach marina is nearly empty with only about a dozen boats here. We had our pick of moorings. Away from most since I planned to run the genset tonight and the AC.
We both immediately took an hour nap since neither had any sleep last night. Then a quick shower and lunch at the riverside cafe then onto the Fort Pierce airport to check in with Customs via Uber. It was 30 minute ride for $24 each way but cheaper than the $2.25 a foot at the Fort Pierce marina and still an Uber ride to the airport.
Oh man it took all of 2 minutes to check in but we are legal entries now. Oh you will get a kick out of this. When you enter their office there is no one around just a chair in the middle of the room with a bell like in an old motel and a note that says "ring for service but only once"!
Wow what a couple of days. We left Green Turtle Cay on Sunday and made the 60+ mile trip to Great Sale Cay and anchored for the night -- a 10 hour trip. Then Monday morning we waited until nearly 11am to head for Fort Pierce, FL - a 19 hour run with all of it over the Gulf Stream at night. I timed it so we would hit the inlet at daylight. I've never been in this inlet. With the delay and the run up to Vero it was actually a 23 hour run.
We had a great run across the banks and once we hit the Gulf stream I had to slow down -- yes slow down in a sail boat. We were going to get there at 4am or the dark. The sailing directions said this was a very rough inlet on an ebb tide and SE winds. Unfortunately that is what we found.
I had both hands on the steering since this is a narrow inlet and LOTS of current. I got scared at one point because without the engine we would end up on the jetty in a heart beat. I told Mark to get my very sharp serrated knife in case I had to drop an anchor quickly. Both anchors were tied down for the crossing. It was slow and we made it in. I then decided to go onto Vero Beach City Marina rather than go to the Fort Pierce City marina because we would have to stop in Vero for provisioning anyway.
The run across the Gulf Stream was as forecast with 2 -3 foot waves but they were directly astern and we could not sail without beating the Genoa to death. It was a very rolly ride. How rolly? While at the restaurant for lunch both Mark and I felt like we were rolling in our chairs -- uncomfortable. Nice to be bouncing on the boat on a mooring tonight.
Boy the Vero Beach marina is nearly empty with only about a dozen boats here. We had our pick of moorings. Away from most since I planned to run the genset tonight and the AC.
We both immediately took an hour nap since neither had any sleep last night. Then a quick shower and lunch at the riverside cafe then onto the Fort Pierce airport to check in with Customs via Uber. It was 30 minute ride for $24 each way but cheaper than the $2.25 a foot at the Fort Pierce marina and still an Uber ride to the airport.
Oh man it took all of 2 minutes to check in but we are legal entries now. Oh you will get a kick out of this. When you enter their office there is no one around just a chair in the middle of the room with a bell like in an old motel and a note that says "ring for service but only once"!
Saturday, June 10, 2017
Still at GreenTurtle Cay
The weather forecast this morning was not good -- lots of showers and thunderstorms crossing the little Bahama Bank which is where we would be today. We elected to wait another day. The weather window is remaining open.
In the mean time we went for dinghy ride into Black Sound and the lagoon across from the Bluff House. Lots of wrecked boats on the shore line -- this hurricane hole is NOT living up to its namesake.
Changed the spark plugs in the dinghy outboard motor. I thought it wouldn't get us back but it did.
We will try to leave again tomorrow morning.
Enough fancy eating -- tonight is spaghetti and meat -- the meat is a "surprise" meat. They said it was hamburger and we will find out.
In the mean time we went for dinghy ride into Black Sound and the lagoon across from the Bluff House. Lots of wrecked boats on the shore line -- this hurricane hole is NOT living up to its namesake.
Changed the spark plugs in the dinghy outboard motor. I thought it wouldn't get us back but it did.
We will try to leave again tomorrow morning.
Enough fancy eating -- tonight is spaghetti and meat -- the meat is a "surprise" meat. They said it was hamburger and we will find out.
Friday, June 9, 2017
Ready set GO!
Ohhh boy. Looks like our weather window has arrived.
We are heading to Great Sale Cay tomorrow and spending the night. Sunday we will head to the northern banks near White Sand Ridge and head out. Depending on how it goes we might make Fort Pearce, Cape Canaveral, or even Brunswick Georgia. Depends on weather and how we feel in the gulf stream.
Today we made final preparations. I dove on the boat bottom and cleaned it with the last 1000psi in my scuba tank, we went to towns and provisioned for a few more days -- mainly Oj and Gin and Coconut Bread.
It was off and on showers this morning so we had to work around that. I dove on the boat bottom and when I came up it started to rain so I took my shower stuff to the showers here and took a nice long hot one. When I came out it was pouring rain so I didn't even dry off and put my wet swim trunks on and put my back pack in a garbage bag and walked in the driving rain to the boat where I dried off and put dry clothes on. Actually great fun. The pool here was full of young kids swimming in the rain. Great fun.
The trip to town was a bit rough in the dinghy but we had a great time once we got there. We went to Shorty's Take out and had lunch. It was good and relatively cheap. We both had lunch dinners and drinks for $24. That is what one lunch is any other place. Then off to grocery store, liqueur store, and bakery. Have got to get one more Coconut bread for the road.
The McIntosh bakery was at its best today. They had coconut cream pies, key lime pies, with huge domes of merangue, cherry pies and all other assortments. Ummmm good but we left with only the coconut bread and Mark had a coconut ice cream for the road. A great afternoon in GTC.
Cleaned up on the boat this afternoon and made more preparations to depart tomorrow. Topped off the diesel full and water tanks and put the dinghy and motor away. If it is not raining in the morning we will be off -- I never leave in the rain!
Wish us luck and check the position reports on this web page to track us. We will be out of cell phone and internet until Monday or Tuesday.
See were we ended up.
We are heading to Great Sale Cay tomorrow and spending the night. Sunday we will head to the northern banks near White Sand Ridge and head out. Depending on how it goes we might make Fort Pearce, Cape Canaveral, or even Brunswick Georgia. Depends on weather and how we feel in the gulf stream.
Today we made final preparations. I dove on the boat bottom and cleaned it with the last 1000psi in my scuba tank, we went to towns and provisioned for a few more days -- mainly Oj and Gin and Coconut Bread.
It was off and on showers this morning so we had to work around that. I dove on the boat bottom and when I came up it started to rain so I took my shower stuff to the showers here and took a nice long hot one. When I came out it was pouring rain so I didn't even dry off and put my wet swim trunks on and put my back pack in a garbage bag and walked in the driving rain to the boat where I dried off and put dry clothes on. Actually great fun. The pool here was full of young kids swimming in the rain. Great fun.
The trip to town was a bit rough in the dinghy but we had a great time once we got there. We went to Shorty's Take out and had lunch. It was good and relatively cheap. We both had lunch dinners and drinks for $24. That is what one lunch is any other place. Then off to grocery store, liqueur store, and bakery. Have got to get one more Coconut bread for the road.
The McIntosh bakery was at its best today. They had coconut cream pies, key lime pies, with huge domes of merangue, cherry pies and all other assortments. Ummmm good but we left with only the coconut bread and Mark had a coconut ice cream for the road. A great afternoon in GTC.
Cleaned up on the boat this afternoon and made more preparations to depart tomorrow. Topped off the diesel full and water tanks and put the dinghy and motor away. If it is not raining in the morning we will be off -- I never leave in the rain!
Wish us luck and check the position reports on this web page to track us. We will be out of cell phone and internet until Monday or Tuesday.
See were we ended up.
Thursday, June 8, 2017
Doing the Turtle Shuffle
Well I was told I still have to leave the Green Turtle Club marina on Saturday the 8th because of reservations.
This caused a lot of consternation. The weather forecast was for frequent severe thunderstorms Wednesday through Friday and a lesser degree on Saturday. The wind on Thursday was supposed to be low 20s gusting to 30s and I did not want to move my boat out of that slip and around all the mega yachts that have already arrived in the Marina -- it is tight.
We decided to move out Wednesday in only moderate wind and try and get a mooring ball in White Sound. I first dove on the propeller to check its condition. It had a lot of very fine grass like structures growing on it as well as the rest of the bottom but they brushed right off -- no barnacles. We then checked out and left the marina -- it was blowing moderately but we made it out with out any white knuckles or yelling -- a good thing. We saw a nice orange mooring and went for it. Well it took 4 attempts to finally get the bridle attached and then we could read the little float that said "RESERVED" -- aaaack. The wind was the factor. It would blow us away before we could attach the bridle.
What to do.. There was no other viable mooring available so I called the Bluff House Marina and they said I could stay tonight but they had reservation and I may have to move tomorrow. Ohh well, Chris Parker was calling for the worst storms tonight into tomorrow so we took a slip. That went pretty well and we were all tied up. Good thing because during the night we had numerous storms roll over and one had lightning so packed together that it looked like a continuous light!
It was a nice day. We met the folks on the 2 other sailboats here and they are all holding to cross back to the US too. Sounds like we might have a buddy boat or two which would be grand. The rest of the afternoon was on again off again showers.
For you cruisers here in the winter where most boats here are either sail or trawler, both marinas are full of large powered mega yachts now. No wonder they wanted me to be gone. These folks spread BIG money around although most are quite rude -- could be that "Kalik drip" they have all day long.
After a stormy night it has been a quiet windy day with just a couple of showers. I cleaned the knot log transducer and launched the dinghy. Installed new cam cleats on the dinghy davits. The old ones were slipping occasionally. We met the locals on a Catamaran on that orange mooring so it was good we didn't stay until kicked off. My old slip at the Green Turtle Club had a small mega yacht in there this afternoon.
So far they have not asked us to move. I hate when I can't have a definite plan!
Mark and I went to lunch at the Tranquil Turtle Beach bar here today. There were only a couple of folks there and we got waited on quickly. We ordered a couple of Kaliks and then tried to order lunch but she wouldn't take the order. "We are out of gas but more is coming". Grrrr this is the same place where my Christmas Dinner -- Special Sweet and Sour Chicken dinner -- consisted of 3 wings and a broken drum stick.
Well the threat of rain was high so we just enjoyed the bar and finally ordered about 45 minutes later. I had the Cracked Conch and it was good. Long lunch -- we didn't get back on the boat till 2:30pm
We have just been puttering around the boat and trying to look scarce so they don't ask me to leave -- wishful thinking I guess.
So we will probably be here tonight. I sure don't want to anchor out here because the holding is poor.
Now what's for dinner?
This caused a lot of consternation. The weather forecast was for frequent severe thunderstorms Wednesday through Friday and a lesser degree on Saturday. The wind on Thursday was supposed to be low 20s gusting to 30s and I did not want to move my boat out of that slip and around all the mega yachts that have already arrived in the Marina -- it is tight.
We decided to move out Wednesday in only moderate wind and try and get a mooring ball in White Sound. I first dove on the propeller to check its condition. It had a lot of very fine grass like structures growing on it as well as the rest of the bottom but they brushed right off -- no barnacles. We then checked out and left the marina -- it was blowing moderately but we made it out with out any white knuckles or yelling -- a good thing. We saw a nice orange mooring and went for it. Well it took 4 attempts to finally get the bridle attached and then we could read the little float that said "RESERVED" -- aaaack. The wind was the factor. It would blow us away before we could attach the bridle.
What to do.. There was no other viable mooring available so I called the Bluff House Marina and they said I could stay tonight but they had reservation and I may have to move tomorrow. Ohh well, Chris Parker was calling for the worst storms tonight into tomorrow so we took a slip. That went pretty well and we were all tied up. Good thing because during the night we had numerous storms roll over and one had lightning so packed together that it looked like a continuous light!
It was a nice day. We met the folks on the 2 other sailboats here and they are all holding to cross back to the US too. Sounds like we might have a buddy boat or two which would be grand. The rest of the afternoon was on again off again showers.
For you cruisers here in the winter where most boats here are either sail or trawler, both marinas are full of large powered mega yachts now. No wonder they wanted me to be gone. These folks spread BIG money around although most are quite rude -- could be that "Kalik drip" they have all day long.
After a stormy night it has been a quiet windy day with just a couple of showers. I cleaned the knot log transducer and launched the dinghy. Installed new cam cleats on the dinghy davits. The old ones were slipping occasionally. We met the locals on a Catamaran on that orange mooring so it was good we didn't stay until kicked off. My old slip at the Green Turtle Club had a small mega yacht in there this afternoon.
So far they have not asked us to move. I hate when I can't have a definite plan!
Mark and I went to lunch at the Tranquil Turtle Beach bar here today. There were only a couple of folks there and we got waited on quickly. We ordered a couple of Kaliks and then tried to order lunch but she wouldn't take the order. "We are out of gas but more is coming". Grrrr this is the same place where my Christmas Dinner -- Special Sweet and Sour Chicken dinner -- consisted of 3 wings and a broken drum stick.
Well the threat of rain was high so we just enjoyed the bar and finally ordered about 45 minutes later. I had the Cracked Conch and it was good. Long lunch -- we didn't get back on the boat till 2:30pm
We have just been puttering around the boat and trying to look scarce so they don't ask me to leave -- wishful thinking I guess.
So we will probably be here tonight. I sure don't want to anchor out here because the holding is poor.
Now what's for dinner?
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
Another Fun Day
Aaaack it poured rain till about 11am. then we took a golf cart into town to hit the grocery stores we didn't hit yesterday. Finally got a little lunch meat -- ouch -- $7.10 for a 10oz package of ham.
Then on the way back the golf cart quit running -- had plenty of gas but was not pumping it. Fortunately I had my Bahamas phone and I called Brendell and he sent another cart out. After 30 minutes and being a feast for mosquitoes we headed back and got caught in a blinding rain. Oh yeah we got wet.
We had a nice lunch of leftovers and lunch meat.
I then changed the primary diesel filter on the main engine. The old one did not look bad but now I know we are starting with a good one.
I then checked with the office to see if I could stay another 2 days -- Thursday and Friday -- forecast bad weather those days. They said they had to check with management -- later they said NO -- they were full up.
After a little hiatus I filled the water tanks. Looks like we have to leave here tomorrow instead of Thursday. They have a reservation for this slip. I don't know how they are going to get here because the weather is forecast real bad Thursday and Friday. Thus I need to leave tomorrow while conditions are still mild and go to either a mooring ball, Bluff House, or anchor.
Weather looks good for Saturday on so that is when we will probably start back.
Ohh well.
Just as I was heading out for a late shower tonight I noticed the kitchen sink faucet leaking around the handle -- even when it was off. I had put a repair kit in it 2 months ago but now it leaks again. After studying it awhile Mark notice th water coming from the base rather than the top. I tore it down again and pulled the whole faucet off. Ahhh there are O-rings in the base. I remembered the repair kit had some but I thought they we for a different faucet. Fortunately I hadn't thrown them away and they fit fine. Faucet no leak now --- ahhh feels good. Nice way to end the day -- looks like a shower in the morning though
Then on the way back the golf cart quit running -- had plenty of gas but was not pumping it. Fortunately I had my Bahamas phone and I called Brendell and he sent another cart out. After 30 minutes and being a feast for mosquitoes we headed back and got caught in a blinding rain. Oh yeah we got wet.
We had a nice lunch of leftovers and lunch meat.
I then changed the primary diesel filter on the main engine. The old one did not look bad but now I know we are starting with a good one.
I then checked with the office to see if I could stay another 2 days -- Thursday and Friday -- forecast bad weather those days. They said they had to check with management -- later they said NO -- they were full up.
After a little hiatus I filled the water tanks. Looks like we have to leave here tomorrow instead of Thursday. They have a reservation for this slip. I don't know how they are going to get here because the weather is forecast real bad Thursday and Friday. Thus I need to leave tomorrow while conditions are still mild and go to either a mooring ball, Bluff House, or anchor.
Weather looks good for Saturday on so that is when we will probably start back.
Ohh well.
Just as I was heading out for a late shower tonight I noticed the kitchen sink faucet leaking around the handle -- even when it was off. I had put a repair kit in it 2 months ago but now it leaks again. After studying it awhile Mark notice th water coming from the base rather than the top. I tore it down again and pulled the whole faucet off. Ahhh there are O-rings in the base. I remembered the repair kit had some but I thought they we for a different faucet. Fortunately I hadn't thrown them away and they fit fine. Faucet no leak now --- ahhh feels good. Nice way to end the day -- looks like a shower in the morning though
Back in the Bahamas
Arrived back at Green Turtle Cay yesterday afternoon. Great Trip.
Wow everything came off like clock work yesterday. It was an early start with me getting up at 3:45am but it was worth it. We had a 7:15am flight out of RDU to Miami. The airport was not crowded, made it through boarding pass assignment with minimal hassle (You can't use a Kiosk when doing a one way ticket to the Bahamas). Breezed through TSA and the plane left on time. The only issue was that I left my Iphone in the car. I didn't want to put Karen through the hassle of coming back to the airport or delay my processing so I let it go -- may regret that later.
Arrived in Miami on time and found our departure gate was on the same concourse but at the extreme other end. We came in on gate 7 and would leave on gate 55!! We tried the Sky Train and it was a breeze from there.
The flight from Miami to Marsh Harbour was on a Brazilian built Jet and it was fast -- 29 minutes. Wow it took us 26 hours by boat!!
Arrived in Marsh Harbour and worked through customs and immigration and then grabbed a cab to Treasure Cay. I wanted to go to the marina for lunch and the grocery store there and the cab driver told me "good Luck". This was a holiday weekend here and today Monday was a religious holiday the stores would be very low on supplies and most would be closed. We went to the Ferry dock and had lunch there. Took the 1:30pm Ferry and were in Green turtle about 2pm.
WOW....
The boat looked good. No visible damages, no odor below, and fired up the AC units. It was very warm and sticky.
I was hot and sticky since I lost my acclimation to this heat. We rented a golf cart and went to town for groceries. Only lowes food was open and they had a lot of empty space on the shelves and the really good meats were gone as well as lunch meats. We wanted to go to Sids early this morning but it is poring rain right now... Soon we can go I hope.
Last night we went to the Green Turtle Club for dinner. We had to get a table inside because the mosquitoes are Voracious!! Even the screened in area had them. Then it was back on the boat to do more unpacking and system startups and in bed just after 9pm. It had been a long day but a GREAT travel day.
Time to go forage for some more food now.
Wow everything came off like clock work yesterday. It was an early start with me getting up at 3:45am but it was worth it. We had a 7:15am flight out of RDU to Miami. The airport was not crowded, made it through boarding pass assignment with minimal hassle (You can't use a Kiosk when doing a one way ticket to the Bahamas). Breezed through TSA and the plane left on time. The only issue was that I left my Iphone in the car. I didn't want to put Karen through the hassle of coming back to the airport or delay my processing so I let it go -- may regret that later.
Arrived in Miami on time and found our departure gate was on the same concourse but at the extreme other end. We came in on gate 7 and would leave on gate 55!! We tried the Sky Train and it was a breeze from there.
The flight from Miami to Marsh Harbour was on a Brazilian built Jet and it was fast -- 29 minutes. Wow it took us 26 hours by boat!!
Arrived in Marsh Harbour and worked through customs and immigration and then grabbed a cab to Treasure Cay. I wanted to go to the marina for lunch and the grocery store there and the cab driver told me "good Luck". This was a holiday weekend here and today Monday was a religious holiday the stores would be very low on supplies and most would be closed. We went to the Ferry dock and had lunch there. Took the 1:30pm Ferry and were in Green turtle about 2pm.
WOW....
The boat looked good. No visible damages, no odor below, and fired up the AC units. It was very warm and sticky.
I was hot and sticky since I lost my acclimation to this heat. We rented a golf cart and went to town for groceries. Only lowes food was open and they had a lot of empty space on the shelves and the really good meats were gone as well as lunch meats. We wanted to go to Sids early this morning but it is poring rain right now... Soon we can go I hope.
Last night we went to the Green Turtle Club for dinner. We had to get a table inside because the mosquitoes are Voracious!! Even the screened in area had them. Then it was back on the boat to do more unpacking and system startups and in bed just after 9pm. It had been a long day but a GREAT travel day.
Time to go forage for some more food now.
Monday, April 24, 2017
Crying Uncle and another INTERMISSION!
Ohhh man I come to you all with a heavy heart tonight. Our weather window has not appeared yet and it will be at least another 2 weeks before one might appear. Several folks we know took the marginal weather windows recently that we passed on and they had an uncomfortable time. All made it but it was no fun for them. Unfortunately our patience and needs are not limitless so we are going to have to put the boat up again (this time at the Green Turtle Club) and travel back to the homestead via American Airlines. Fortunately we are not traveling with a stroller so should be okay. Hey I wonder what all those "Sky Marshalls" are doing on these planes that we as tax payers are paying for. Couldn't they intervene if an air rage instance goes to fista cuffs??
The forecast weather for Saturday and yesterday was bad. It turned out WORSE. Last evening we had a wind average in the 30s with gusts in the low 40s. This morning we saw 2 anchored boats up against some docks and 2 others all twisted together and trying to untangle their anchor lines. I wonder if others broke loose last night and were able to reset themselves. It was comfortable here at the dock and we even turned on the AC so we didn't have to listen to the wind whistling.
Well back to the unpleasant intermission. Tomorrow we are taking a ferry to Treasure Cay then a LONG Cab ride to Marsh harbour to catch a plane. We will go through Miami this time then onto RDU. Airport/plane time is 5 hours but 3 hours of ferry, taxi, and check in. What else would be doing tomorrow eh?
I'm not happy about this but I am looking forward to coming back in early June and taking the boat back across to the USA. We have never been here that late and it will be an adventure to enjoy really mild conditions and lots of heat. Hey cooling off is just a dip over the railing! Hey maybe when I return Karen can stay home and one of my old sailing buddies can come over and we can take one of those marginal weather windows and make BIG tracks home. Otherwise it will be the comfortable baby steps back.
Over the rail cooling - well yes and no. Saturday a sport fishing boat came in and they cleaned their fish at the head of the dock. Ohhh Man we had 3 Nurse sharks come in and one was at least 5 feet long and there was a 5 foot manta ray swimming with them and a couple of barracudas. Ohhh man it was just 3 weeks ago I dove here on the bottom of my boat and cleaned it. I looked for fish but saw none. I would have been quite uptight if one of these babies had showed up.
Well the weather looks good for flying tomorrow so hopefully it will be a good trip.
Right now it looks like intermission will be over around June 5th and then we will bring Temptation home.
The forecast weather for Saturday and yesterday was bad. It turned out WORSE. Last evening we had a wind average in the 30s with gusts in the low 40s. This morning we saw 2 anchored boats up against some docks and 2 others all twisted together and trying to untangle their anchor lines. I wonder if others broke loose last night and were able to reset themselves. It was comfortable here at the dock and we even turned on the AC so we didn't have to listen to the wind whistling.
Well back to the unpleasant intermission. Tomorrow we are taking a ferry to Treasure Cay then a LONG Cab ride to Marsh harbour to catch a plane. We will go through Miami this time then onto RDU. Airport/plane time is 5 hours but 3 hours of ferry, taxi, and check in. What else would be doing tomorrow eh?
I'm not happy about this but I am looking forward to coming back in early June and taking the boat back across to the USA. We have never been here that late and it will be an adventure to enjoy really mild conditions and lots of heat. Hey cooling off is just a dip over the railing! Hey maybe when I return Karen can stay home and one of my old sailing buddies can come over and we can take one of those marginal weather windows and make BIG tracks home. Otherwise it will be the comfortable baby steps back.
Over the rail cooling - well yes and no. Saturday a sport fishing boat came in and they cleaned their fish at the head of the dock. Ohhh Man we had 3 Nurse sharks come in and one was at least 5 feet long and there was a 5 foot manta ray swimming with them and a couple of barracudas. Ohhh man it was just 3 weeks ago I dove here on the bottom of my boat and cleaned it. I looked for fish but saw none. I would have been quite uptight if one of these babies had showed up.
Well the weather looks good for flying tomorrow so hopefully it will be a good trip.
Right now it looks like intermission will be over around June 5th and then we will bring Temptation home.
Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Like Moses and the promised land
Aaaaaack still in GTC area. We can see the promised land (Florida) but just can't get there ---yet.
We had no weather window this week then one suddenly appeared and everyone is chomping at the bit to use it. Unfortunately it is constantly shrinking and is now down to 12 hours on Friday and still with 3 - 4 foot seas in the Gulf Stream. That is doable by many folks but not us. Then again maybe.
Gosh we have been patient but 3 weeks and stil not a go for us. We will wait some more.
In the mean time we are anchored at Manjack Cay and enjoying this pleasant undeveloped area. There is great sea glass hunting nearby but with the winds 15 - 20 it's is too rough for the dinghy ride of 2 miles. I guess we are just whoosies.
We thought we would take this window anyway but the fates had other ideas. We pulled anchor this morning and motored the 6 miles back to the GTC settlement in what should've been 10 - 15 kts but found 20 plus. We anchored and launched the dinghy in rough conditions. I went to 2 stores and got what we needed. Then back on the boat and loaded the dinghy to leave. It was tough in the bouncing waves. Then we discovered that our fresh water pump was running all the time --not really pumping. So I had to troubleshoot that and fix it. Once loaded and recovered we took off towards Powell Cay where our contingent was supposed to be hanging out but then learned they went further towards Foxtown and anchored behind Crab Cay.. the wind was behind us and I still doubted we would take this window. If we decided to not take it we would have to motorback in stronger winds tomorrow sooo we diverted to Manjack and anchored out of this wind.
Tomorrow we will either go on for the crossing on Friday or head back to GTC to find safe Harbour for the expected very nasty weather this weekend into Monday Tuesday. What can I say?.
We had no weather window this week then one suddenly appeared and everyone is chomping at the bit to use it. Unfortunately it is constantly shrinking and is now down to 12 hours on Friday and still with 3 - 4 foot seas in the Gulf Stream. That is doable by many folks but not us. Then again maybe.
Gosh we have been patient but 3 weeks and stil not a go for us. We will wait some more.
In the mean time we are anchored at Manjack Cay and enjoying this pleasant undeveloped area. There is great sea glass hunting nearby but with the winds 15 - 20 it's is too rough for the dinghy ride of 2 miles. I guess we are just whoosies.
We thought we would take this window anyway but the fates had other ideas. We pulled anchor this morning and motored the 6 miles back to the GTC settlement in what should've been 10 - 15 kts but found 20 plus. We anchored and launched the dinghy in rough conditions. I went to 2 stores and got what we needed. Then back on the boat and loaded the dinghy to leave. It was tough in the bouncing waves. Then we discovered that our fresh water pump was running all the time --not really pumping. So I had to troubleshoot that and fix it. Once loaded and recovered we took off towards Powell Cay where our contingent was supposed to be hanging out but then learned they went further towards Foxtown and anchored behind Crab Cay.. the wind was behind us and I still doubted we would take this window. If we decided to not take it we would have to motorback in stronger winds tomorrow sooo we diverted to Manjack and anchored out of this wind.
Tomorrow we will either go on for the crossing on Friday or head back to GTC to find safe Harbour for the expected very nasty weather this weekend into Monday Tuesday. What can I say?.
Friday, April 14, 2017
Time to climb back on that horse -- anchoring horse
I have to admit that I was really spooked 2 weeks ago when My "fantastic never fail Rocna" anchor dragged big time here in White Sound. It's not unusual to drag anchor here because of the proclivity of turtle grass but I thought I was immune -- I wasn't.
We have been in the high dollar marina for 2 weeks now and it is time to go. Unfortunately we don't have a great weather window showing in the next week but it is time to go. I think I'll stay out of White Sound for awhile though.
There are the northern cays here to explore so that is what we will do or if worse comes to worse we will go to the Leeward Yacht Club in Black Sound and tie up for nearly half the price of the Green turtle club.
Now don't get me wrong the facilities here at the Green Turtle Club are definitely A1 and we have enjoyed them. Unlimited daily showers -- some times twice in a day -- a great pool and sturdy docks to tie to and a marina staff that is next to none -- very friendly and accommodating.
They have a great restaurant here but pricey and we do not want to add that expense to our stay here. We are eating well but it is all prepared by Chef Karen.
For a diversion and some fun we rented a golf cart yesterday for a day and went to town to pickup some bulky soda and beer as well as general provisions. We will be gone but not far for awhile. Time to load up. We used the golf cart to explore the Ocean Beach road -- rough as hell -- As well as the road to the Bluff House -- rougher than hell in fact my windshield popped out of the supports at one point!!
We made another trip this morning before turning the cart back in just to visit town one more time in case we do leave the GTC area next week to head back to the USA. It was very quiet for Good Friday. They are quite religious here in a Christian way and thus Easter is a big deal here.
Right now it looks like we will be in the area for at least another week. We are going to pass on the one day weather window on Monday because it will not be a truly pleasure boater dream -- seas 3 - 5 feet! However several cruisers said that is fine with them and they will be going --- we are pleasure boaters.... Stay tuned.
Ohhh when we came back from the USA last month we only asked for 60 days in the Bahamas -- man we have used almost 30 of those now!! Gosh hope to be back within 2 weeks now...
We have been in the high dollar marina for 2 weeks now and it is time to go. Unfortunately we don't have a great weather window showing in the next week but it is time to go. I think I'll stay out of White Sound for awhile though.
There are the northern cays here to explore so that is what we will do or if worse comes to worse we will go to the Leeward Yacht Club in Black Sound and tie up for nearly half the price of the Green turtle club.
Now don't get me wrong the facilities here at the Green Turtle Club are definitely A1 and we have enjoyed them. Unlimited daily showers -- some times twice in a day -- a great pool and sturdy docks to tie to and a marina staff that is next to none -- very friendly and accommodating.
They have a great restaurant here but pricey and we do not want to add that expense to our stay here. We are eating well but it is all prepared by Chef Karen.
For a diversion and some fun we rented a golf cart yesterday for a day and went to town to pickup some bulky soda and beer as well as general provisions. We will be gone but not far for awhile. Time to load up. We used the golf cart to explore the Ocean Beach road -- rough as hell -- As well as the road to the Bluff House -- rougher than hell in fact my windshield popped out of the supports at one point!!
We made another trip this morning before turning the cart back in just to visit town one more time in case we do leave the GTC area next week to head back to the USA. It was very quiet for Good Friday. They are quite religious here in a Christian way and thus Easter is a big deal here.
Right now it looks like we will be in the area for at least another week. We are going to pass on the one day weather window on Monday because it will not be a truly pleasure boater dream -- seas 3 - 5 feet! However several cruisers said that is fine with them and they will be going --- we are pleasure boaters.... Stay tuned.
Ohhh when we came back from the USA last month we only asked for 60 days in the Bahamas -- man we have used almost 30 of those now!! Gosh hope to be back within 2 weeks now...
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
Home Sick
It's official now. We are home sick.
We expected to be back in the USA by now but these incessant East to North-east winds are keeping us in the Bahamas.
Once you decide to go home then that is all you can think about but these winds are relentless and keeping us put. Heck anyone to tough it out with these winds but we are "pleasure Boaters" and prefer milder conditions and are willing to wait until we get them but we will still complain.
Thus we need to accept the obvious and make the best of it. How about high temps in the low 80s and lows in the high 60s with no rain and plenty of sunshine? Not bad. Water temp is about 74 degrees and just a little invigorating but we are enjoying it. There are a lot of cruisers here in the GTC area and we are all socializing. We have the concert from the Gully Roosters tomorrow night "best band in the nation!". We have 3 grocery stores, a bakery, and 2 liquor stores in the settlement and several beach bars. We are not suffering except in our own minds.
Next crossing window is nearly a week away and it is questionable. Ohh well we will endure it somehow.
Don't feel sorry for us.
The beauty of so many cruisers around you is that you can't feel sorry for yourself. Our main battery charger died yesterday. It went out with a loud Phsssssssst and electrical smell. No smoke or fire but it is TOAST! Fortunately we have 2 battery chargers aboard and the other has picked up the load after isolating the first charger maybe a 2 hour task. I complained to one cruiser and he showed me his bent hydraulic ram on his Autopilot -- they will be hand steering back to the USA. Another cruiser said his genset failed and everything on board needs AC like his water maker and the cold plates for his refrigeration. It will be marina stops for him till he gets back to the USA. My issue is pretty petty with respect to theirs.
Oh well we will persevere.
We expected to be back in the USA by now but these incessant East to North-east winds are keeping us in the Bahamas.
Once you decide to go home then that is all you can think about but these winds are relentless and keeping us put. Heck anyone to tough it out with these winds but we are "pleasure Boaters" and prefer milder conditions and are willing to wait until we get them but we will still complain.
Thus we need to accept the obvious and make the best of it. How about high temps in the low 80s and lows in the high 60s with no rain and plenty of sunshine? Not bad. Water temp is about 74 degrees and just a little invigorating but we are enjoying it. There are a lot of cruisers here in the GTC area and we are all socializing. We have the concert from the Gully Roosters tomorrow night "best band in the nation!". We have 3 grocery stores, a bakery, and 2 liquor stores in the settlement and several beach bars. We are not suffering except in our own minds.
Next crossing window is nearly a week away and it is questionable. Ohh well we will endure it somehow.
Don't feel sorry for us.
The beauty of so many cruisers around you is that you can't feel sorry for yourself. Our main battery charger died yesterday. It went out with a loud Phsssssssst and electrical smell. No smoke or fire but it is TOAST! Fortunately we have 2 battery chargers aboard and the other has picked up the load after isolating the first charger maybe a 2 hour task. I complained to one cruiser and he showed me his bent hydraulic ram on his Autopilot -- they will be hand steering back to the USA. Another cruiser said his genset failed and everything on board needs AC like his water maker and the cold plates for his refrigeration. It will be marina stops for him till he gets back to the USA. My issue is pretty petty with respect to theirs.
Oh well we will persevere.
Saturday, April 8, 2017
All dressed up and no place to go
Wow it has been a fast week. I can't believe its been 6 days since last post.
The week has been spent swimming at the beach, a golf cart outing, visits into the settlement of New Plymouth, and swimming in the pool here. We have kept pretty busy. We had a great cruisers get together last night for all the sailboats here.
This has been a windy week and glad to be in a marina. The marina really filled up on Wednesday/ Thursday for the forecast big winds on Thursday and Friday. The anchorage was packed. The winds really piped up on Thursday and at least 4 boats in the anchorage dragged. More did over night but no count available. It was ugly but we were safely tucked in. I don't trust this anchorage after my "never fail" Rocna dragged the other day here.
Watching the weather window this week my brain has been squirming like a toad! First we had no window then we had a great window beginning today through Wednesday. Great, we started prepping for that. Then that window began shrinking from 4 to 3 and now maybe 2 days. This window had Sunday into Monday with 2 - 3 foot seas in the gulf stream and occasional 5 or 6 foot. Then it was just 2 -3 as of this morning. To use this window we would have to nonstop from here to Lake Worth in 26 hours and we would be crossing the gulf stream in the dark. If the 2 -3 foot was wrong then it would be rough. There wouldn't be any smaller seas.
So what do we do? The rest of the week is all 10 - 20 knots with a few days at 15 - 25 and higher gusts. We could go to Manjack Cay and anchor for this forecast NE wind but it would be uncomfortable and worrisome. We could have gone today to Great Sale Cay and on to West End tomorrow but then we would stay there for at least a week.
I decided it is just better to stay put and be comfortable and worry free. Hell a week here is only as much as a third of a weeks cost in a nursing home. Why not spend it here.
Today the marina cleared out and we are the only sailboat here. There are 3 megayachts here but they don't count. Today is a very light day with winds beginning to build tomorrow afternoon and then strong winds Monday through Friday. I went to the office to see if we could stay till next Saturday and they said they had a lot of reservations but they could still fit us in. Seems unusal with all the empty slips but that is the nature of reservations. Ugly weather coming this week and other cruisers know it.
The boats that left are split in their decisions. Some will try this window to cross to the USA Sunday
and the others will go to Manjack and weather the blow there. I suspect many of those will be back in here before Tuesday.
In the mean time we are the welcoming commitee here.
The week has been spent swimming at the beach, a golf cart outing, visits into the settlement of New Plymouth, and swimming in the pool here. We have kept pretty busy. We had a great cruisers get together last night for all the sailboats here.
This has been a windy week and glad to be in a marina. The marina really filled up on Wednesday/ Thursday for the forecast big winds on Thursday and Friday. The anchorage was packed. The winds really piped up on Thursday and at least 4 boats in the anchorage dragged. More did over night but no count available. It was ugly but we were safely tucked in. I don't trust this anchorage after my "never fail" Rocna dragged the other day here.
Watching the weather window this week my brain has been squirming like a toad! First we had no window then we had a great window beginning today through Wednesday. Great, we started prepping for that. Then that window began shrinking from 4 to 3 and now maybe 2 days. This window had Sunday into Monday with 2 - 3 foot seas in the gulf stream and occasional 5 or 6 foot. Then it was just 2 -3 as of this morning. To use this window we would have to nonstop from here to Lake Worth in 26 hours and we would be crossing the gulf stream in the dark. If the 2 -3 foot was wrong then it would be rough. There wouldn't be any smaller seas.
So what do we do? The rest of the week is all 10 - 20 knots with a few days at 15 - 25 and higher gusts. We could go to Manjack Cay and anchor for this forecast NE wind but it would be uncomfortable and worrisome. We could have gone today to Great Sale Cay and on to West End tomorrow but then we would stay there for at least a week.
I decided it is just better to stay put and be comfortable and worry free. Hell a week here is only as much as a third of a weeks cost in a nursing home. Why not spend it here.
Today the marina cleared out and we are the only sailboat here. There are 3 megayachts here but they don't count. Today is a very light day with winds beginning to build tomorrow afternoon and then strong winds Monday through Friday. I went to the office to see if we could stay till next Saturday and they said they had a lot of reservations but they could still fit us in. Seems unusal with all the empty slips but that is the nature of reservations. Ugly weather coming this week and other cruisers know it.
The boats that left are split in their decisions. Some will try this window to cross to the USA Sunday
In the mean time we are the welcoming commitee here.
Sunday, April 2, 2017
A plumber Mowing the grass
When you go cruising you have to have multiple skills. Our kitchen faucet has been leaking at the stem. I brought a repair kit for it while back home and that is probably the item that triggered a hand inspection of my carry on while in the security line at the airport.
The fix went smoothly and no leak now.
I wanted to finish cleaning the boat bottom now that I had my scuba tank refilled. The water here at the marina is not too bad. The task went well although I did find more barnacles then expected and the growth on the keel was long filaments much like grass. Fortunately they brushed off easily.
I used 3/4 tank with air to spare. Once done the hard work begins. Flushing all the dive gear with fresh water and drying everything.
After relaxing a bit I walked up to the heavily chlorinated pool and went for a refreshing cleansing swim. I feel really clean now although they probably need to add more chlorine in the pool.
It' s a beautiful calm evening tonight. -- perfect for relaxing after a grueling day in the water.
The fix went smoothly and no leak now.
I wanted to finish cleaning the boat bottom now that I had my scuba tank refilled. The water here at the marina is not too bad. The task went well although I did find more barnacles then expected and the growth on the keel was long filaments much like grass. Fortunately they brushed off easily.
I used 3/4 tank with air to spare. Once done the hard work begins. Flushing all the dive gear with fresh water and drying everything.
After relaxing a bit I walked up to the heavily chlorinated pool and went for a refreshing cleansing swim. I feel really clean now although they probably need to add more chlorine in the pool.
It' s a beautiful calm evening tonight. -- perfect for relaxing after a grueling day in the water.
Friday, March 31, 2017
A scary day in paradise
The morning dawned with mild wind but that changed by 10 o'clock. It started blowing in the low 20s. The anchor looked good but one never knows. Several boats came in and tried to anchor. The thick turtle grass makes it difficult. Most had to reset and clear large mounds of sand and grass from their anchors before resetting them. We made no comments but we worried what ours was doing.
Then around 11am a boat called Mayday! They had a person on board that was unconscious after snorkeling near Fowl Cay. There was a dive boat nearby that attended and transported to Marsh Harbour. Don't know the outcome but it is scary. For the most part you have to depend on family and friends and strangers for first responders.
Then around 2:30 pm we drug anchor. It happened quickly. I just realized I was getting close to the marina dock and we were closing quickly. I told Karen we were dragging and start the engine. I turned on the breakers for windlass, wash down, etc. she started to slowly hold us off the dock while I retrieved the anchor chain and anchor. The anchor was a mass of grass and sand and difficult to clear. We moved to a nearby sandy spot and dropped the anchor. It grabbed quickly. I put out an extra 20 feet for a total of 90 feet in 10 feet water. It feels good and looks good in the wind gusts. The wind is supposed to relax tonight so shouldn't be too difficult to sleep tonight. The next few days are calling for light winds.
How windy is It? Well my windgenerator overheated and went into free run mode --- very loud and scary. I have to manual turn it away from the wind until the prop feathers then put a restraining line on it.
We thought about going to town for a walk but not after dragging. It will take a few hours to rebuild confidence in this anchor set.
Then around 11am a boat called Mayday! They had a person on board that was unconscious after snorkeling near Fowl Cay. There was a dive boat nearby that attended and transported to Marsh Harbour. Don't know the outcome but it is scary. For the most part you have to depend on family and friends and strangers for first responders.
Then around 2:30 pm we drug anchor. It happened quickly. I just realized I was getting close to the marina dock and we were closing quickly. I told Karen we were dragging and start the engine. I turned on the breakers for windlass, wash down, etc. she started to slowly hold us off the dock while I retrieved the anchor chain and anchor. The anchor was a mass of grass and sand and difficult to clear. We moved to a nearby sandy spot and dropped the anchor. It grabbed quickly. I put out an extra 20 feet for a total of 90 feet in 10 feet water. It feels good and looks good in the wind gusts. The wind is supposed to relax tonight so shouldn't be too difficult to sleep tonight. The next few days are calling for light winds.
How windy is It? Well my windgenerator overheated and went into free run mode --- very loud and scary. I have to manual turn it away from the wind until the prop feathers then put a restraining line on it.
We thought about going to town for a walk but not after dragging. It will take a few hours to rebuild confidence in this anchor set.
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