Chapter 4: Learning and Gaining Experience

Picture this: we are cruising at a slow 8.7 knots, crossing mega 26-mile-wide Saginaw Bay averaging depths of 90 feet and the water is calm laid down by a gentle breeze. We are listening to jazz talking about how incredibly fortunate and blessed we are. Heavenly! Today, we left one of our favorite marinas at the top of the Michigan “mitten” thumb. Port Austin—small quaint town, incredible sunset, tiny marina and a beach! We played a paddle game on the sand like summertime kids.
Not all sunshine and lily pads, however. Getting out of Port Sanilac a few days ago we encountered a starboard engine that would not start. A call to our home base marina mechanic solved the problem of a shift control out of gear. Phew! Then a wind gust forced Captain Bill to react quickly to avoid hitting a sailboat. He said he experienced the “pucker factor!” We are getting better and better at dock departure and arrival. Within about 10 minutes we can be safely underway or tied to our marina slip. Bridgett handles the lines and fenders while Bill keeps the boat steady, slow like a pro!Read more