Lunenburg, Mahone Bay & Prospect
26 августа, Канада ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C
On August 16th, with Raceweek packed up, and keys for the RV off in the car with Allison, we were stuck at the cottage. Chris had come to get the RV and Sue was taking me in his truck to Lunenburg. The upside of the wait was spending time with Carmy (short for Carmelo) their three legged rescue dog.
Allison returned and our home/ bed for the week drove off. Sue and I went to Chester and walked around, had a coffee and then made our way to East Lahave to see her Dad and grab him some groceries (from Rose Bay General Store). Then to Lunenburg to meet the boat.
Bernie was off on the August 18th early am. He did a hike to Mahone Bay and back, and found GF treats at Coffee No. 9. Brian and I went to see a house close to city hall, with a great view, above the bandstand, but not a great layout. Stephanie was our agent. On the walk to the grocery store, I laid eyes on another house for sail and we hoped to see it before we left. It was pouring rain on the 18th, Bernie got a cab to the bus station (and forgot his PFD and EPIRB)… and we got chased off the dock at Zwickers around d 3pm. We left in heavy fog and started to call around for moorings. Lunenburg Yacht Club didn’t have any space but Mahone Bay had space on the wharf (no mornings till Thursday). We got settled in around d 6pm.
The following day we went for a walk around Mahone Bay, had coffee at The Barn and Social Gathering Place (as we did in Lunenburg). We followed the fairy lanes and enjoyed the town. Stephanie picked us up at 2:30 and we saw a house in Lunenburg (perfect place if we were both ready to settle — but we aren’t). She drove us past Dads old homestead on Kissing Bridge Road. Once back on the boat, at 5pm, I logged onto the computer to do more work on the Trillium Foundation grant for Freeing the Human Spirit, and realized the deadline was a few days earlier then I expected…. Gratefully I’d don’t lots of prep works and got it in on time, although the adrenaline was rushing as the deadline counted down. Once done we went out to a restaurant and had calamari and Brussels sprouts and mussels… a feast!
The next day I booked a pedicure… pretty toes for Ashlynn’s wedding…and we walked around more, had an ice cream and tried to get another night on the dock (but they only had a mooring according to Richard and Wes). They did however call the fella that was booked into our space and asked him to wait until the mechanic, Zach, saw the boat.
Zach reviewed the boat, was really knowledgeable and Will met us in Prospect Bay on Tuesday morning. He comes highly recommended!
We had mooring 48 reserved but at the last moment a father and son came to the wharf beside us and told us about MIRA (Mahone Islands Restoration Association) and the Public mooring balls. We left and found a beautiful spot on Bella Island where we stayed for two nights.
We intended to head to Prospect Bay, Peter and Marge Blunden’s mooring ball, on Monday…. But a big rain storm was going to blow throw on Sunday, so we headed there Saturday. We sailed in close to Peggy’s Cove so Brian could see it from the water. We arrived around 4pm and came to the dock, intending to grab water and have Marge for supper (Peter was still in Cape Brenton). Once tied up, Brian decided it would be better to leave as the wind had started to pick up. We immediately left and went to the mooring (grabbing the lines was NOT graceful).
I got a meal ready to take to the house, and Brian dropped the dingy, we rowed ashore (23 strokes) and had a lovely evening with Marge and their Pitty named Layla.
Sunday and Monday we were ensconced in rain and fog…. I love the fog, having grownup with it… Brian is disquieted by it (mainly while sailing).
We decided to take a Hotel at the Hilton Garden Inn on Tuesday as our flight left on Wednesday at 6am. Tuesday Zach arrived and pulled out the injectors and reviewed work he was going to do while we were gone. Then Chris came with a new Turbo jacket. By 2:30 we were saying goodbye to Lorena (Brian had the nervous zoomies ….not in movement like a dog… but in speech).
Marge was generous and drove us to the Hotel, with a stop at Il Mercato in Bedford along the way, for a nice afternoon meal. The room was comfortable and we went for a little walk around the property before I took and Uber to Sue’s to pick up the suitcases full of “Breathe” tent decorations for Ashlynn’s wedding (both weighing 21 kilos each). Two more suitcases that will be abandoned on the trip. And two suitcases left at Sue’s that became Kevin’s newest resting spot.
A shuttle to the airport, baggage drop that was not over weight, and a smooth flight for both legs (yhz to yyz & yyz to yyj)! Brian got to see the Rockies from the air 🏔️🏔️…. 30 minutes till we land.Читать далее
Chester Race Week
16 августа, Канада ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C
Chester Raceweek was a fantastic blur! Sue an I left from Fall River in the morning, and met the boat in back harbour. It was red shirt day and we got two races in, placing third overall. We went to the club afterwards and I spotted some old crew I used to race with in Siren (with Mickey Cormier): Derek & Doug. The results were delayed so we left and went home. Chris had arrived at the cottage in Chester Grant, with the RV and was setting it up (however all my GF food was still in Sue’s fridge).
Since I was affectionately know as the Dillon fill-in (and have been each time I’ve done Raceweek on King of Normandy), there was a bag full of outfits to wear each day.
On day two the winds went light and we had only one race…. Louis and Allison went for a swim.
Day 3 we had three races to make up for the day before and one of the legs of a race we couldn’t get the spinnaker up (it was packed bad, put up wrong and on the third or fourth try we got it up in time to cross the finish line).
We were racing in the Bravo fleet, class 3, and had two Sonars in the fleet, one owned (and helmed) by an Olympian sailor. First was out of reach.
However, on day 4, with one long race, we placed 1st overall that day, and solidified a 3rd place overall.
Some of the crew went back into the club for ABBA night, and dancing, but I was tired and happy to stay behind and relax in the RV. It is great to be with someone when you don’t need to talk… you can just be. Sue and I have been racing Chester since 1998 or 99, and friends since 1986.
Even though I live on a boat, racing felt so great. It was nice to have a role (flying the spinnaker) and owning it. To be part of a team, and to be light hearted and forgiving when things go wrong. King of Normandy is a great boat, and Francois a likewise, great captain. The crew are fun and authentic, and no subject is restricted. We had meals and breakfasts together and Louis made sandwiches on the race course. A tiring but fabulous time, doing what I love, with awesome people and a long time bestie!Читать далее
A Moncton minute
11 августа, Канада ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C
By the time we got back to Moncton it was too late to go to Melanie’s, so I stayed with Dad and Wavey and helped Dad with getting email onto the iPad.
At 8am I went to Melanie’s and had a short visit with her ( 2 hours is never long enough)! I went back to Dads as my car was not running (a started issue), and Sheila picked me up and we went to Loli…. And again sat for a couple hours and chatted over coffee. It is so great to be in the presence of friends, to be around people who love you as you are!!
Sheila dropped me off to my house and Dad and I met the Costco rep to get a quote on my basement windows. Then I had to dig out all the material that we made for Breathe Yoga Fest. Kelly had so much stuff piled in the basement and elsewhere, I was surprised at her comment that I should get a storage unit for my stuff. She will have to move her things around when the windows get finished, and I will sell or get rid of the couch and mattress downstairs, plus do some gardening, when home in September.
At 4pm a friend of Dads (Saw) came to his house, after we vacuum sealed bags of material and got them into 3 suitcases. Saw drove me to Truro and Sue and her crew (Chris and pup, Carmy) picked me up at the Irving.
We drove the backroad as Chris was buying a transmission for Sue’s Dad’s (Jim) car. Then drop it off at a shop and picked up their trailer, which will be our home in Chester (he’ll drive it down). Sue and I did a grocery shop before retiring with a glass of wine for the evening.Читать далее
PEI
10 августа, Канада ⋅ ⛅ 25 °C
Arrived in Charlottetown and we were able to secure a face dock. Surprisingly, from Murray Harbour to Woods island there were lobster pots in plenty. The guys got to see the red clay shores as we sailed close to land .
Once on land, we made quick plans to see Anne of Green Gables (I was hoping for Come From Away…. But it wasn’t playing). Bernie headed off to explore and we had some oysters and met him at confederation centre.
The following day we walked around town, visiting coffee shops, bookstores, and Cows Ice Cream, and churches (Brian had never heard of Saint Dunstans). We stumbled onto an outdoor market and Brian was mesmerized by all the instruments in the symphony group that was playing. They asked me to conduct (for fun) and later gave Brian the cow bell, which he got into at the end.
My cousin, Steven and his wife Mary, arrived back to PEI after sailing their Aloha 34 (Mischief) back from NS. We showed them Lorena and went to spend some time on there boat (with grandson and puppy - Hailey). We met with Bernie at an Irish pub and then went for Indian Food…. And rolled back to the boat, we were so full!
The following morning we headed back to the bookstores to drop off our lovingly read books for a store credit, and then to Leonard’s Cafe for a wonderful breakfast. Then to meet Dad back on the boat.
He and Wavey met us on the wharf and took a tour of the boat. Then, after I packed up my gear for Chester Raceweek, we headed to Brackley Beach and had a meal at the Dunes Cafe, admired the galley grounds and bought an outfit for Ashlynn’s wedding.
We dropped Brian off at the Yacht Club and made our way back to the bridge….. with a pit stop at Cows for an Ice Cream!Читать далее
Cape Brenton with Bernie
9 августа, Канада ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C
Before stopping in Baddeck we stopped to see a house on lower Washabuck, that had a mooring and wharf. It is beautiful on the outside, but rooms are small and driveway long and steep. Not for us. We continued on to Baddeck and had to squeeze into a docking spot, and came in quick, scaring the boat behind us: Life of Reilly. Brian went to talk to them (and met Peter Blunden) in the meantime
Bernie arrived and we decided to go to the Telegraph House (GF restaurant) even though they said they had no tables available. We gave them our story and they found us one! The food was amazing!! We then went to another Ceilidh and at the break they served oatcakes. I couldn’t have one, but was happy that Brian and Bernie did as my mom (from Cape Brenton) used to make them.
The next morning Bernie left for a walk, and came back with GF oatcakes for me … such a treat…. And a croissant for Brian. We took a walk to the Alexander Graham Bell Museum and it was interesting to learn about his role in flight and about his wife life (she was deaf, published bits, first Funder of airplanes).
We needed to wait untill the boat behind us left, before leaving. So we took a shower after washing all our oysters and mussels on the dock. A great feast!
We left at close to 5pm and headed for Maskells Harbour, as did Life of Reilly. We went for a swim before the sun set. In the morning, the water was so calm and the mist hung above the trees. However, the forecast suggested it was going to blow the following day.
We took the dinghy to hunt for oysters on shore, and found lots! We stopped by Life of Reilly and chatted and invited them to Lorena. They came with the kids and Greg brought his kids back and came to fetch James and Dad, Peter, who stayed on the boat. They left due to weather concerns the next day. We waited out the weather and then left for Chapel Island shortly after noon… a spicy sail with lots of wind to take us to the next oyster place! In the morning Brian rowed to shore and grabbed some more appetizers. Then we made our way back to Saint Peter’s Marina. We stayed for the night of the 5th, provisioned, got some ice cream, saw a Beluga whale and had showers.
The next day we went through 3 bridges and two canals, taking Lennox Passage to Canso canal and on to Hauve Boucher. The next day likewise, a full day of sailing 25nm to Ballantyne’s Cove, at the mouth of George’s Bay.
Our anchor has been very temperamental and lifting the last 20-25 feet very difficult. In PEI we will order a new Gypsy. For now, grateful that Bernie is on deck to help pull the chain and 125lb anchor onto the boat.Читать далее
Cape Brenton arrival
1 августа, Канада ⋅ 🌧 17 °C
We left Dartmouth on July 28th and headed to Saint Peter’s. The fog in Halifax Harbour was thick and we motored nearly 26hrs, arriving to the canal around 10am, grateful the fog had lifted enough that it was clear through the canal and I to the Bra D’Ors.
We called Garry and took a slip at the Marina. Ended up staying two nights. We provisioned, check our Blood Pressure, did laundry, took showers, waited out the rain storm, and bought and installed a kitchen faucet that we returned the next day to the Hardware Store (they no longer sell the filters for them). We went to a Ceilidh in the basement of the Marina and surprisingly, Brian really enjoyed it. Lots of great local talent. Fun to introduce him to the kitchen party concept.
A final shower and then we were supposed to be off the dock. Came back, blow dried my hair then plugged the Starlink back in. Apparently it surged and Starlink wouldn’t work. I had a grant due the next day and without Starlink, it wasn’t happening, so I went to the kitchen and finished up the grant amidst the nose and chatter (my poor ADHD brain). We were docked next to a boat with two small children (Norden and Karissa) and parents Bridgette (or perhaps Brittany) and Brian. The two Brian sat and talked math and philosophy.
After I hit submit we left and sailed to Pellier Island. We were there twice two years prior and loved the solitude and the few. We had a bit more difficulty anchoring this time as it was hard to find a place that wasn’t too deep, but that the swing wouldn’t put us on shore.
The next morning we went to shore for the great oyster hunt, finding 40-50 plus mussels. We put them in our Ram Island bag and a bucket on the boat.
Bernie was meeting us in Baddeck at 5pm so we had to be on our way. We had one more draw bridge to enter, and apparently they are concerned about opening them the entire way as they get stuck open… however, going through a half opened bridge can be scary…. Not much room for error.Читать далее
My Tribe (Moncton / Halifax)
27 июля, Канада ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C
On Wednesday (July 22nd) I took the bus to Moncton. Daniel picked me up and we had a nice coffee before heading to dad’s in his right side drive Land Cruiser. I stayed with Dad and Wavey for a night, and helped Dad with some technical things like connecting email to his phone and ordering supplements. On Thursday I taught a class and then went to the house with Dad to look at the windows and fence. Then met Andréia for lunch and went to the Dobson Trail for nice walk in the woods. Later, I went to TD Bank and spent an hour or so trying to get my Otesha Bank Card and combine personal with business. On my way to meet Sarah at my Dads house, I stopped into Youth Impact and had a short visit with Mel.
Sarah and I went to her place in Harvey (15-20 min from Big Stop) for a nice evening relaxing with the dogs, catching up, and having pizza and wine.
In the morning, I taught again and headed to walk with OWE friend Manju and Evie, sadly a slow tractor on route 112 subverted my time with these two beauties, before heading to the bank again.
Then an afternoon spent zooming to Fundy, grabbing an ice cream and back to Sarah’s with Kirsten in her little 2 seater BMW-Z convertible.
Another nice evening at Sarah’s with great food and conversation, and meeting her friends Jeremy and Angela, who took us on a 4-wheeler drive down to their cottage (that used to be owned by the Noddin family).
On Saturday morning I spent some time working at a “real” desk and it felt so nice! Then off to another visit with Sean (who was an hour late) and Dad, before heading back to Halifax with Sarah. She wanted to drive me down and surprise Mike and Leanne, the reason I was going back early.
We picked up Brian and went to Bass Pro, then met Mike, Leanne and the van in the parking lot. Sarah came for the surprise 10mins later and we all went to Sushi. Sarah drove back to Moncton (as she had mortgages to close and a 4-wheeling opportunity with Luke).
We spent the day on Sunday with Mike and Leanne. They came to the boat and I cooked breakfast, then we all went and walked the waterfront, went to Pier 21, and then an Italian restaurant that had GF pizzas, and back to Dartmouth Yacht Club.
On Monday I had coffee with Grant, nice to catch up and hear about his Caribbean adventures. Then I raced (co-skippered) with Sue on King of Normandy. After the race we went to the club house… Grant’s daughter won the Women Series night, we came in 5th (out of 9). Brian picked me up on the dock, and then we hoisted the dinghy to prepare for a Tuesday departure to Cape Brenton.
So grateful for all the beautiful people in my life and the opportunity to see them, exchange energy with them and just be me around them. People like this are rare and special! People who will except you as you are, not place demands or expectations on our relationships and just enjoy the moments we have together, is such a blessing. Living a strange, un- relatable life can sometimes be difficult… but these photos bring me such comfort when I am longing for connection, Canada, home and friendship! 💕🙏🏻Читать далее
Passage to Nova Scotia
20 июля, Gulf of Maine ⋅ ☀️ 16 °C
Within the first several hours of leaving Cape Porpoises we encountered squalls and winds gusting to 47knots, flying along and dogging pots with only the stay sail up. Sadly, that was about the only wind we encountered on the whole passage.
We had already dug out hat and sweaters, but on the passage, it was time to find more warmth. We got out the icing glass, the barrier for the back of the pilot house and tried to install it after the sun went down. The track then came out of the ceiling, so I found and installed three new screws and the clasp on the Dutch door broke, so Brian installed a new one. We also played around d with the wiring for the helm heater and got it working by using the power input to the fan, and the fan switch (which we use to cool the Garmin in the warm climate). We saw the Bluenose on our screen coming up the coast of Nova Scotia, going 3knots, as there was NO wind.
We made it to Lunenburg, and took a mooring ball as it was supposed to be messy weather the next day.
We called immigration, the same as we did 2 years ago. Then they told us to go to the Fisheries Museum and call them from land. We headed to shore and called them, and they said that local agents would be on their way. I hadn’t brought our papers with us, so I called them back to see if I should get them. Finally I called back after 20-30min of being cold and asked when the agents would arrive and if they were coming from Halifax, which they did not know.
We were supposed to wait, but I needed warmth, so we walked back to the dinghy to get jackets, and then to the coffee shop, and finally to the bookstore across the street.
I left the store to go to the bathroom, then popped back to the Fisheries Museum and I saw them looking for us. I waved, and they were friendly, but annoyed that we had left the area, and gone to the bookstore. We explained that there people in Ontario need to be better trained on what to tell people and where to go. They asked some questions and gave use our clearance papers, afterwards we went for Sushi.
The following day we returned to Lunenburg, walked through the town, to the Academy, and to the three bookstores. We had
dinner at the Saltshaker and went to Cafe No.9 and listened to some live music and sat beside a young man who was working on the Bluenose II for a few months.
Then we made our way to Dartmouth and unfortunately they had no moorings available for us, so we anchored, in a beautiful spot! Lots of chores to do on Lorena now.
We had dinner (and brought our laundry) to Reed and Naomi’s home (and Wes and Kai) the night we arrived. It was nice to see them and we brought turkey burgers, hummus, cheese and crackers, and a Mola from Panama (San Blas) to gift to them.Читать далее
Maine
16 июля, Соединенные Штаты ⋅ ⛅ 23 °C
We arrived in Kittery with a glimmer of light left and rather than anchor, we picked up a mooring. Something I’m not used to doing but it wasn’t too bad. We only stayed on the ball for the night, and then headed to Plymouth, NH just across the water, to get some fuel and water. Then onward to Cape Porpoise on July 10th.
Wearisome from watching for pots, I got the lines ready for mooring as we were picking up a ball that Brian’s friend owns. The line dropped overboard and I couldn’t pull it in, Brian was convinced it wrapped in the rudder. We were close to the narrow entrance with rocks and lots of lobster pots. He shut off the engine and hoisted the sail and called the Coast Guard. Meanwhile, I was sure the line wasn’t 60ft long (to reach the propeller), eventually it became unstuck from whatever it got caught on under the boat. He called off the CG and we continued into the Bay, barely skirting the pots. We picked up the mooring and let out a sigh of relief.
We explored the town of Cape Porpoise, and found a great coffee spot and a grocery store. We also went to a lobster Car (looks like an ice fishing hut) and bought some lobsters (on two different occasions) directly from the fisherman. We also visited the lighthouse and climbed to the top, and rang the bell on the odd triangle structure.
We rented a car from Enterprise in Biddeford. It was the same morning as a man was shot by ICE. After renting the car we went to the Laundromat, and learned about it after a confrontation happened with a man wearing a MAGA hat.
We visited several bookstores in the area and a health food store.
We returned to explore and visited Kennebunkport. Lots of neat shops, bookstores and trees. I think we bought nearly 20 books between all the stores we visited. We also bought SeaBags for the kids (beverage bags, made out of sails). We put wine, Perrier, sprinkles, nuts, chocolate, and a book and card from Dad. When we weren’t shopping we installed a new faucet in the forward head.
I had called the Border Protection in Portland about checking out of the country. Talked to a great guy, who wasn’t going to be working on the 15th when I would be in town but told me to call the 14th and set a time with them. I called back and they said they don’t do check-out and that we would have to use a form 1300. I downloaded it, but it has no spot for listing people onboard, so there was no point. I guess I’ll deal with the USA again when I go back. 🙄
On July 15th we went to Portland and walked through the museum, then to Mr Tuna to meet the kids. Then we went to the Airbnb in Old Orchard Beach (Pine Point). Phoebe and Ian went to the grocery store and the rest of us went for a walk on the beach, then the kids cooked supper and we went for another beach walk (the Canadian fires were making the air very thick, and cool). In the morning we went for another walk, and I made a big breakfast for all. We had gotten the sailing report from Chris Parker, who recommended we leave on the 16th. We said goodbye to Phoebe & Aiko, Marly, Ben and Bailey 🐾 and Ian at the 10am checkout and drove back to the boat, hoisted the dinghy and left by 12:30. We were glad we stayed the whole time in Cape Porpoise verse trying the anchor close to the Airbnb, a much safer alternative.Читать далее
Cape Cod Bay
9 июля, Соединенные Штаты ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C
Up very early from our found anchorage to get to the Cape Cod canal for a 7am tide that would push us through from Buzzards Bay to Cape Cod Bay. The canal is 7.4 miles long and the current can run up to 5miles/hr. Once through we put up the sails again and headed for Wellfleet. There was little doubt we had entered the heart of New England as we maneuvered our way, like the game of twister, through the 1000’s of lobster pots. We arrived to the anchorage closest to the town (although still almost 2miles away) and dropped anchor amount some derelict vessels.
The passages have become much more exhausting as we have to constantly keep our attention on the water to avoid pots, and wrapping their line around our prop. Sadly, we also see a lot of helium balloons that look like pots, littered across the American waterways. They should be outlawed!
We arrived on July 2nd by noon and decided to just relax for the day. We even went for a dip and cleaned the waterline on the boat. The following day we spent in town… it was uncomfortably hot, but between the Market and the Used Bookstore, we were able to escape the warmest blaze, and by late afternoon we made our way to outdoor seating g at Winslow Tavern for “happy hour.” Most people think of discounted booze but sometimes it means “buck a shuck” oysters! We met the owner Tracy (he husband is the chef) who have owned the restaurant for 20 years. Great conversation, including her coined phrase “deficiency culture” she used to speak of the mindset of youth today (not being able to afford a house, not having g kids due to environmental conditions, etc). On Independence Day (July 4th) we hoisted the anchor at 5am and had a glorious sail to Provincetown. We got there before noon and found a great spot to anchor, which gave us front row seats for the evenings fireworks celebration. We swam again (suspecting it might be the last time, and finished cleaning the waterline). This was my second time to P’town and I enjoy the openness of the culture. It’s like a mini Burning Man where people can be whoever they want or need to be with no judgement from others…. A strong rainbow culture.
We visited the town a few times over the 4 days we were there and went to the Lobster Pot for a meal (they have a GF menu). We met James who was sitting beside us and cautioned us about swimming due to the increased presence of the Great Whites.. We also ran into Jim and Arden Bradley, who we last saw in Trinidad.
We had hard rains on the third day we were there, and were reminded of all the leaks yet to be fixed on the boat. At one point the winds got really stiff and Brian thought we were dragging. Between the rainy periods we varnished. We left early on July 9th and made our way across the Bay to the Gulf of Maine and Kittery.Читать далее
ПутешественникWhat are you trying Pasq? Sorry for such a short visit in July, but all be back in Sept for a week or two. Looking forward to spending more time with you and Manju then!
Delaware to Mystic, CT
30 июня, Соединенные Штаты ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C
We left Still Pond and headed to the C&D Canal. In 1829 this man made canal connecting Delaware River to the Chesapeake Bay was open. It is 14 miles long, 35ft deep and 450 feet wide. I’ve transited several times, but it is always a thrill to be so close to large container ships that don’t look like they will fit under the bridges that cross over the canal.
We spend the next night across from the nuclear power plant (in New Jersey) on a rather uncomfortable anchorage called Reedy. The following day blessed us with some beautiful weather to descend the Delaware River all the way to Cape Henlopen, a beautiful and well protected anchorage where the River meets the ocean. In both the Chesapeake and the Delaware fierce currents flow so timing your passage with the ebb and flow is vital.
My love for fast planes was cultivated with Tom Cruise in the 1986 film Top Gun, so imagine my excitement as I watched this fighter jet whiz past us on several occasions as we were coming down the river!!
On June 25th (Thursday), we left Henlopen at dawn and were privy to a gorgeous sunrise. We sailed along the coast, on the outside of Long Island Sound and arrived in Mystic/ Noank area, to Ram Island, in the late afternoon on June 26th. We let people know we were in town, and made arrangements to visit Brian’s friends.
On Saturday we saw Keith and his wife Maggie for lunch (at Ford’s/ Haring) and then went to the wooden boat show (via power boat) with Ben and Eleanor (and another couple Ray and Jeff). Then Eleanor and I did a grocery run and we all went back to their house for a salmon dinner. The return back to the boat was 2.5 miles…. in the fog! We had Apple Maps, but then remembered that Navionics was on the phone, so used it to direct us the rest of the way to the boat at 10pm, only seeing her when she was 150ft in front of us.
On Sunday we did boat chores, replacing the dashboard fan, and some yoga after a long passage. We went for a swim in the frigid water and read… a fairly relaxing day.
On Monday we went to Noank to get some oysters at the cooperative, and then to the General Store that Jeff and Ray are opening. Eleanor was there and we went to Carson’s diner afterwards. Then back to the dinghy to Mystic where we visited the used bookstore and dropped off about 20 books for credit (only $22). Then we walked through Mystic, went to Academy Point and tried to see Sidney Vanzant (Sandy died the previous year, the day before we visited). Then to the Mystic Library, where we read on the beautiful 2nd floor for a while. We returned to the boat, after oyster happy hour, with another 10-12 books.
The following day we went into Mystic again and visited with Beatty and Ian (Brenna) who messaged us on No Foreign Land (a boating app). We met then in Cape Brenton in 2024, saw them in Antigua a couple times and had lunch with them on Tuesday at the Mystic Market. Their boat is on the hard and they live nearby in Essex. When coming back to our dingy I went to the bathroom and commented on the showers… we made a quick decision to borrow towels and soap from their boat and enjoy the luxury of a hot shower, before heading back to Lorena and getting ready for an early morning departure.Читать далее
Love your odyssey. You will remember it all your life, [Keep it coming. Manj]
Manju is teachinga course to students in Papua New Guinea. [Pasqualinomarcantoni]
Adventures on the Chesapeake
22 июня, Соединенные Штаты ⋅ ⛅ 27 °C
After our book buying spree, we got back to the boat and left the marina… heading up the Chesapeake. With its tide and current Redding and flowing twice a day, you only ever have 6 hours where you are not fighting the currents. Although we always try to sail, in a narrow body of water after, with a head current we don’t always make the miles we want and do to crab pots, it is advisable to either stay in the shipping channel or be on the lookout for pots (which is much more difficult at night).
Our first night, we pulled into the first Bay in the Deltaville area (going into Fishing Bay would have added 1.5 hours to our trip). Sadly, when we dropped the main, it didn’t come down all the way and we had to anchor with it still up. The polyester wrap outside the dynema had been chewed up, rendering the halyard useless. We got it down, but wouldn’t be able to use it again untill we bought a new ($600) one, which we had shipped from Travis at Mack sails to Herrington Harbour North.
Our second night (June 13) was at Cove Point. We arrived late and left early, and by 2pm we were at Herrington Harbour and assigned to Slip B42. The channel in was dragged to 7ft but we draw 6.3 so it was really tight! The docking was between big pilings, and we were attempting to back in with two young dock hands helping. They didn’t tie off the midship line in time and the wind was blowing 20knots…. So we got pinned sideways against the pilings, blocking in 3 other boats. We checked with them and they were not going anywhere, so we remained untill Monday morning when the wind died and our neighbour helped easy us into the slip.
There are approximately 1000 boats at this marina between dry storage and water. It was amazing and the grounds were immaculate. The gardening was beautiful all along the paths and every dock, from A to M, had its own sitting and BBQ stop on land, with benches and Adirondack chairs all over the property. It reminded me of home and how much I loved to sit outside my home, with the same brick pavers, sip my coffee and chat with the neighbours walking by. It also reminded me of how much I loved to garden.
We borrowed bikes from the marina and took a spin through the yard and used them often to go to West Marine (on the premises), which seemed to be a daily occurrence. After using instacart again we found out that the marina would do a courtesy shuttle to a nearby grocery and hardware store, so we got away on Friday and had fun perusing the aisles at a new store, Christophers. The marina also had a pool and bar area, with a laundry room and the most magnificent bathrooms and shower rooms I’ve ever experienced at a marina!
We did some socializing on the last couple of days. Ian and Alex (Brian son and daughter-in-law came from Baltimore for a Saturday visit) and we went to eat at Wharf 38 (for a second time — so good), visited the pool and bar and hung out at the boat. They brought pastries and coffee for Father’s Day. The boat next to us was Dave in a Halberg Rassey (Tenacious) and we toured each others boats. Further down, a motor yacht that had done the great loop (YOLO) had a dog named Lucie (same as the Marina office women)… we swapped boat tours with Calvin and Beth Bell, who we also sat with at the Slipholders Dinner. Michel (who sailed with us to Antigua) was out on his boat Sea Whisperer (Hunter 49) and he and his wife Terry came to the Marina for a night. We were going to have dinner but found out about the free steak & shrimp dinner at the pool (with a band), so we all went to that and had an enjoyable night that ended with dancing to Free Bird (Leonard Skinner). On Sunday, International Day of Yoga, I was excited that there was a class outside, so I attended and it felt great. The marina definitely gets a 10/10!
However, it was posh and expensive and we had hoped to be there only a few days, but Nathan and Ed at Zimmerman, nor the delivery of parts, were as quick as we had hoped. Eventually, the hoses, expansion tank and freshwater pump was replaced on the Perkins, all the coolant was flushed (it took a full day) and the locking nut on the stern gland stuffing box was un-seized, although they couldn’t get the packing out to repack. Brian and I re-rigged the main halyard and I sewed the dynema sleeve on two places, as well as the outhaul. When we filled the water tanks, we realized that the port tank is leaking into the galley and tried to determine where it was coming from (with no success), our bilge pumps are also temperamental (and Nathan suggested we drill a small hole in the topside of the hose to prevent air bubbles), our splinter stopped working and we tried to repair it with a new head, but failed, so we had to order a new one (pick up in Maine). We also cannot get our forward A/C to run.
Ed worked Sunday and when we was done at 5:30pm we were going to leave, except as we turned on the instruments the low water alarm was on and we were a low tide, a bad time to go. We were also heading to Herrington Harbour South to get fuel. In the end we paid for another night and left in the morning. As tricky as it was getting in, the same for getting out and we ended up leaving a bright green stain on the piling, leaving an opportunity to figure out how to repaint Lorena’s starboard stern.
Getting gas, although a narrow fairway in and out, wasn’t a problem, we filled up on diesel ($5.34/ gallon), 110 gallons (we hold 250) and left for the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal, knowing we would need to anchor for the night in order to catch the current (2-3knots) across.
About 15nm after leaving Herrington Harbour Brian checked the coolant and found that it was still leaking, very disappointing! We sent a message to Nathan, reminding him of my comment and fear, that we seem to get work done, problem “fixed” and get out on the water only to find we spent ALOT of money and still had the problem. At 25nm away, while Brian was checking the fishing line he notice the stern gland going off a lot. When we went down the drip that used to be once every 5-10sec was now a constant dribble of water. We called Nathan immediately. It was disconcerting to still have both problem, one that could be perilous. Nathan called back and offer for us to return or suggested we tighten the lower lock nut and the bolts on the neoprene gasket (that should have been a paper gasket). The leaks in both areas were subdued enough for us to continue. We found a nice spot to anchor at Still Pond with lots of bird watching and bluffs. There was a storm warning for thunder and lightening so we tucked in as close to land as possible and prayer that “the awful autograph of God” would not poke Lorena!Читать далее
Cape Charles
12 июня, Соединенные Штаты ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C
After a rocky start to the morning, where my computer was taped down for a class, we passed the concrete boats and headed for Cape Charles Marina — a fairly easy docking, alongside the face dock, our neighbour’s a 100ft motor yacht. Although we only stayed two nights, we took full advantage of a marina and its quaint little town!
We did a load of laundry, ordered groceries from Instacart (and do to timing, had to divert the driver to a restaurant, which meant carrying 6bags of groceries a mile back to the boat), two coffee ice creams (the best I’ve ever tasted) at the Brown Dog, two oyster happy hours at the E&O, 3 wonderful showers (in a nice clean bathroom), 2 sunsets, one walk on the beach and lots of boat chores, trying to figure out and fix the rudder issue and coolant. Thanks Ashlynn for the gift card that allowed all the ice cream and oysters!!
We also managed to go to an Asian Fusion restaurant for lunch (Edible Art) with LOTS of GF deserts, a book store (I bought the book Maid) and a book sale at the Library. I bought lots, including Pawverbs… which I bought through Amazon later that day and sent to Joe and Michelle. I also sent, via Amazon, West into the Night to Ashlynn, and the philosophy of Coffee to Hugo.
After testing the cap, we realized it wasn’t the issue and deflated, had to make our way to Zimmerman at Herrington Harbour North, where they had capacity to work on Lorena immediately, 120nm away… up the Chesapeake.Читать далее
Birthdays
10 июня, North Atlantic Ocean ⋅ ⛅ 26 °C
The original plan was to sail to Lookout Bight, NC and wait for a bit to round Hatteras. However, there was a weather window available and we took it. Sadly, of the 3.5 day we only ended up sailing (motor free), for 12 hours. It was mainly a run with big swells, and we do not have a spinnaker.
We left Thursday afternoon and Sunday was my birthday. We had a good passage and I actually got more sleep than usual, and found that taking magnesium seems to help!
Even though we were on mobile data, I used it all day to send video hello’s and thank-you’s. Lots of messages pour in on Facebook, text and WhatsApp, and I connected by phone with Dad, Ashlynn and Andrew.
It was nice to connect with everyone.
I caught a fish (Brian was in engine room). It was a blue fish, and marinated in Italian dressing, it was delicious!
We flew the code zero for several hours, which was a nice treat!
At 8pm, we arrived to an anchorage outside of Cape Charles by the concrete boats. After a long passage, we had a good sleep!
There is only one day between our birthday’s, mine on the 7th and Brian’s the 9th. We spent the day trying to assess and address our coolant problems and rudder noise, which is also happening at anchor when the swell hits the stern.
I made some carrot cake muffins (with a faux cream cheese frosting… yogurt, cottage cheese and maple syrup) for Brian’s birthday.
On Brian’s day, he got lots of calls and messages from family and friends. I made a nice omelette for breakfast and a big steak dinner.
Still recovering from our passage and waiting for the next weather window to take us to NYC, we slept, read and relaxed. BUT not for long!
The wind and weather picked up and made the anchorage unbearable. I fell from the stairs and landed on my back (scrapping it), and bruising my hip. On the morning of the 10th I had to cancel the 6am class as it was too rough to actually teach.
We made reservations at the face dock at Cape Charles Marina and headed there mid-morning. We had 4 bottles of coolant and a new coolant cap arriving at the fuel dock (we replaced a 7psi with a 25psi…. A big mistake.Читать далее
Hilton Head
4 июня, Соединенные Штаты ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C
We arrived in Hilton Head just after noon on Tuesday. Saw Joe guiding a tour as we came into Broad Creek, following the narrow passage up until we saw Encore V at dock at the Palmetto Marina. We were too tall to go under the bridge and anchor, so we dropped the hook between some derelict boats, 500ft from the docks.
We dropped the dinghy and went to the dock to drop off our 9.9, 4-stroke Yamaha, to get it fixed. Then to visit Joe and Michelle Ricciardi (on Encore V, a Burgur 80 yacht) and pick up our packages… including a wedding invitation from Ashlynn and Hugo.
The following day I started to call around and deal with my I-94, B2 Visa status for being in the USA. Some of the Boarder Protection folks I spoke with had never even heard of the 30-day rule for Canadians who do not have an I-94. I ended up writing a long email with all the “evidence” about my departure last November (which wasn’t recorded) and entrance into Key West. We then headed to a nice dinner at the Olive & Fig with Michelle and Joe, a great Mediterranean restaurant!
Thursday was spent talking with, mainly listening while US border protection agents bullied, yelled, threatened to fine or revoke Nexus or send me back to Canada…. Contradicting each other and giving us false information. I could hear the potential voice of my dad echoing in the background as I endured several hours of frustration… “they are all morons!” Finally, we resubmitted the Roam request and poof, my I-94 and B2 Visa was granted. I am legal till Nov 26th. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to mark my departure by boat, so I will likely have to deal with this issue again in the future.
That night, I got sick… perhaps the stress, but it lasted for over a week (diarrhea) so it must have been the flu.
On Friday we were supposed to go into the docks but I was too sick and slept most of the day. On Saturday we moved to the face dock and Brian only wanted to stay a night as he feels the dock ($150+ per night) is a waste of money. I wanted to be close to our friends. The anchor was stuck, so we chain braked and drug it, dislodging it, but the weight of the anchor was too much for me to release the chain brake…. The current was really strong (up to 4knots in the channel), and we were sliding towards the dock, so we docked (with Joe’s help) and then both he and Brian were able to lift the chain to take pressure off the brake and release it.
We went to Sushi with Joe and Michelle (and their friend Bill and Eileen), then to a bar that featured a band called Rock Candy (80’s heavy metal). I had my ear buds but it was loud and not the type of music Brian or I would normally listen to!
Sunday I went to church with the two couples and enjoyed the fellowship of being around others. The music was great and the message was on the book of James. We went out to the International Restaurant afterwards and I had GF pancakes with crispy bacon (a treat).
We ended up staying at the dock until Thursday at noon, and I was grateful! Still feeling under the weather, but energy had returned!
I did LOTS of provisioning and used the oven on Encore V for most of it: Hawaiian, Turkey Taco, Boursin cheese & tomato casseroles, chilli, sausage biscuits, banana muffins and zucchini muffins. I shouldn’t have to cook on passages between here and Maine or NS.
We did two grocery shops, Aldi and Kroger, visited West Marine looking for a shackle and a dynema sleeve for the outhaul and a bookstore. Michelle was kind enough to drive us around!
Sadly, Joe had to leave midweek to go to Atlanta as he is back with Delta, so his time in a training position.
Brian found the happy hour oyster place at the Black Marlin (just beside the Marina), and we made several visits! I didn’t eat any as my belly was still troublesome.
Michelle and I went thrift shopping and it was lots of fun! I bought 6 pair of shorts, a linen beige dress, scarf and necklace (potential Mother of the bride outfit), and went to G-free Spot for some delicious GF treats!! On Wednesday night we went to Mellow Mushroom, a pizza and burger place and I had GF pizza. They had trivia night and we started playing, with no intention of staying. We did ok on the first two rounds (the table beside helping us), the third we got all correct and the forth (music and TV), none of them. However, we still ended up in a tie breaker, so with neither Michelle or Brian willing, I took the final question… and we WON! A $25 gift certificate.
On Thursday, with all the meals packed into the fridge and nicely showered, I went to visit with Michelle and her mom Suzanne, before heading to the fuel dock and leaving town.
Unfortunately, we were not even out of Broad Creek when we had issues, the epoxied coolant cap gave way and started sputtering. We anchored, fixed the problem by putting the newer one back on, and continued.
Once out and on course, Michelle called to say I left my LOVE bag/ purse on there boat (it had my AirPods). She will ship it to Brian’s daughter, Marley in NYC.Читать далее
Cumberland Island and area
26 мая, Соединенные Штаты ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
On Monday evening at 5:30pm we arrived at St. Mary’s Intercoastal Marina. Colin caught our lines and docking was a challenge but we did it with no damage to Lorena. In the evening we walked the town and ate.
The following morning we took looooong showers, did 3 loads of laundry, washed boat, had GF breakfast sandwich and coffee and Kraken Cafe and went to a bookstore (Hope for the Flowers and Norse Mythology) then at 2:30pm we rode the outgoing current down the river to Cumberland Island, where there was only one other boat. I called Dad once we were anchored but in the middle of conversation Brian spotted something close to shore so I cut the call short and helped to get the dinghy down fast and see if something needed rescued— alligator, manatee, whale. Turns out it was just a couple of Mantees close to shore. We paddles back, in a stiff current. The tides here are 6-7feet and the currents run up to 3knots. The live oaks and Spanish moss from the shoreline was breathtaking.
Wednesday we explored Cumberland Island, seeing more manatees at the public dinghy dock. We wandered around the Carnegie house ruins at Dungeness and saw lots of wild horses, including foals, one of which I touched. We had a long walk on the beach in the Southern End between Dungess and the Sea Camp, and Brian took a quick dip in the ocean.
Thursday morning is reserved for Ashlynn (she is in NB) this week and I always LOVE our catch-ups! We saw a Submarine leave the channel (from the Kings Bay nuclear submarine base), and we went back to the island and walked on Cumberland Parellel Trail and back via the beach and Sea Camp (bugs bad)… saw lizards with red heads and others with blue tails and a turtle in the dunes. The beach was also full of horseshoe crabs. While on the beach we saw a sailboat coming in the channel and determined it was our friend on Carioca (Fiona and Chris), as we left the island, we motored out to welcome them to the anchorage which now had 10 boats and invited them over for drinks (water is all we have, but they brought beer). We caught up with them in the evening after they had walked the shore.
On Friday we headed into Cumberland again for a quick walk to the salt ponds (hoping to see armadillos and alligators), we saw the white foal and another one in front of the castle. Our plan was to go to Amelia Island, but instead we decided to sail the night and go to Wassaw Island on the Odingsell River.
After a passage with not much sleep again… I snoozed alot on Saturday . We arrived at 8am and slept till noon, surprised to see so many weekend boats enjoying the beach on both sides.
On Sunday I had a board meeting for Freeing the Human Spirit and then we took the dinghy to the beach and went for a walk, again, amazed at the number of dead horseshoe crabs… I was able to save one and get it back into the water.
Monday was a holiday (Memorial Day) so still several boats on shore, although the weather was threatening rain so no as many as previous days. We dinghied down the river, through a marsh area to a public dock. We got a the main road, and then took Pavilion trail…which took us over a ridge and to the beach on the Atlantic Ocean which was deserted for miles either way. We enjoyed a nice walk (and my brother Pete called while there). Brian forged for gifts while I was on the phone, bringing me sand dollars, sea urchin and snail shells.
Both Brian and I read Untamed (The Wildest Women in America and the fight for Cumberland Island) by Will Harlan. Normally I am not a fan of historical books, but this one about the islands history and the life of Carol Ruckdeschel was awesome!
As a Canadian I have to figure out the I-94 form and try and determine how much time I have left in the country as they didn’t acknowledge my departure back in November. Brian was dealing with trying to close the KLEB llc and email.
We left on Tuesday at 6:45am to catch the high tide (which was actually at 4:30am), and head to Hilton Head, only 30nm away.Читать далее
Key Biscayne
18 мая, Соединенные Штаты ⋅ 🌬 28 °C
We arrived Sunday at 1pm to the entrance (which was the earliest I suggested, half way between high and low tide). The tides vary by 4feet…. And coming in we had 5feet under the keel in some spots.
Brian always does a great job picking the best spot to anchor. We dropped the hook and had a nap! You could see city lights (Miami) in the background at night.
Whether it is a day or three days… it always takes up time to recover from a night passage and the following day or two we seek lots of sleep.
On Monday we slept in, and then got to work on boat chores. I fixed the blower fan to cool the engine room. Brian was spot priming and varnishing the outside teak. In the afternoon I hand washed our underwear (we haven’t done laundry since Honduras). Pain had been steadily increasing as swollen veins protruded from my seat. I called Urgent Care and suspected it was a thrombosed hemorrhoid. Creams, wipes, and painkillers were of no use.
Tuesday we dropped the dinghy as I hummed and haa-ed at going to the clinic. The coat would be $350USD and I knew it would eventually fade. I busied myself with fixing the fan to cool the dashboard and read a lot. We bought many books in Key West and I’ve been ploughing through them: Dharma Bums, Gathering Moss, The Life Impossible, Marriage at Sea and Hallelujah Anyway (“Love is hard… love is seeing the darkness in another person and defying the impulse to jump ship.” - Anne Lamott). I also chatted with Andrew, Amy and the kids (Kai and Ella). I try to FaceTime with them once a week.
On Wednesday we finally went to town. We docked at the Bill Briggs National Park with our dinghy and caught a FreeBe to the grocery store. FreeBe is electric cars, using an app the same as Uber, but totally free! We went for Sushi and then to a small park (where we watched small turtles and moorhen birds with their babies - a duck like bird, but no webbed feet, also know as a swamp chicken). Winn Dixie in Key Biscayne was paradise considering the grocery stores we’ve been to the last few months. We stocked up, including a big beef tenderloin, which we regrettably had to return later that day. I opened it to cut it up and the smell was rancid! We were supposed to join some other sailors from Austria for a picnic, but timing did not work, so we met with an old client of Brian’s, who he had helped release from an Uruguay jail.
The next day I was still suffering so we stayed on the boat, read, cleaned, and varnished. My Thursday calls with Ashlynn (and Vinny) are always a highlight of my week. This week she showed me her newest tattoo (Muah Ouah)… I shared it with Andrew, Pete and Dad… it was something mom used to always say 💕
I wanted to take Brian to Wynwood Walls and KYU (a Korean fusion restaurant I had been to several years before with Melanie Lang). My plan was to take a Freebe to the end of Key Biscayne and Uber the rest of the way. Brian had different thoughts…. So we took the bus into downtown Miami and then a trolley (with no A/C) to Wynwood. It took us about 3 hours and by that time someone was grumpy and hungry. After we ate, we went to the walls and walked through, then to grab an ice cream, and a stop for coffee at Panther Cafe (where I met the artist Mark Diamond).
We Uber’s back to Key Biscayne and were having dinner with Arturo (whom we met a few days earlier) and Sebastian (who was also in prison 14 years ago) and their wives. Both families from Argentina. From the penthouse apartment, we were able to see Lorena while we ate a special meal. Sebastian drove us to the national park gates (in his Tesla X bat mobile). The gates were closed so we crawled under the fence and back to the dinghy and Lorena.
We had been watching the weather window and it looked like Sunday or Monday, but on Saturday morning… it looked like that evening would give us the best wind angle, so we decided to leave around 7pm. We went to shore one final time to check out the national park and its beach and lighthouse, before setting off on a 2 day trek to Cumberland Island, Georgia.
We left Saturday at 7pm and arrived at St Mary’s Marina on Monday at 5:45pm. Grateful the dockhand/ manager (Colin), stayed late to help us catch the lines. Coming in the channel we were approached by the coast guard (with a machine gun on its bow), we had the radio turned down so didn’t hear them hailing us on Channel 16. They wanted to know our intentions, and found out they were clearing the channel for a navy vessel. There is a large nuclear submarine dock at Kings Bay (inside the channel).Читать далее
Key West
9 мая, Соединенные Штаты ⋅ ⛅ 28 °C
Key West was awesome and we were in deep need of some rest, while it amply provided. The anchorage was calm and we were on the outer edge of Westeria Island (close to Tank island). Each evening a few dozen boats would parade out to the harbour showing its guest the gorgeous sunsets this location displays! The water was warm, but the current strong so our dips kept us close to the boat.
Our rendezvous into town consistently included the bookstore (used and new), west Marine and Key West Marine and the grocery store called Fausto’s. We also walked the main streets through the town that lead to the water (Duval and Whitehead)… the southernmost point of USA and the beginning of Route One. Lots of roosters, key lime pies, police on horses, and tourist roamed the streets. We bought some new shorts and shirts, and each shore visit also meant an oyster feast and the blazing sights of Flamboyant (Royal Poinciana) in full bloom.
We did lots of boat chores, including the most harrowing, changing the stuffing box/ stern gland flax while at anchor. The bilge pump did its job while we worked as quickly as possible deciding to only replace the bottom pieces with something bigger.
For 5 days I was illegal in the country… wanting to wait before setting the clock ticking again! It was such a relief to check in and get the notification. Grateful for NEXUS as I suspect it helped expedite the process. I was truly concerned, as leaving in November my exit from the country was denied, but I was already 24hrs offshore by this time.
The most exciting part of Key West was seeing a Manatee for the first time…. at the dinghy dock (that was $15/ day). The most shocking was gas price at $7.20/gallon.
Off to No Name Harbour, Key Biscayne outside of Miami next. It was an easy 24hour trip riding the Gulf Stream adding an extra 2-3knots of current.Читать далее
Longest Passage, double-handed
3 мая, Caribbean Sea ⋅ ☁️ 28 °C
Our passage was supposed to be 4.5 days, as we had approx 650nm to cover. However, the first two days were magical! We sailed with three sails (main, geneoa and stay sail) and averaged 200nm per day. Our average speed was 8.4knots. Now we had about 2knots of current helping us along, which was awesome. We were both at awe as Lorena has never moved so well! We even managed to run the code zero for all of 30-45 minutes.
We left at dawn April 29th and arrived nearing midnight on May 2nd.
We caught three mahi mahi in one day, and the following day a heavy skipjack tuna. The freezer is full, and Brian is happy, although he dropped the fillet knife overboard, nevertheless, he does a great job with just a kitchen knife.
Birds continue to join us on our journey. Not sure if I should be looking at it as a sign from God guiding our journey, or merely as Lorena offering a haven to tired souls.
Our path was supposed to end at Dry Tortugas, but we arrived in the morning and decided to stay in the Gulf Stream and proceed to Miami, as we were enjoying wind, speed and current. We even talked about going to Fort Pierce.
We have a friend, Joe Ricciardi, former Delta Pilot, who was following our trek, our land contact. He alerted us to a small craft advisory near Miami and when we checked the weather ourselves, we saw lightening and made a quick decision to divert to Key West.
The entry in, at 10pm, was scary! The main channel is marked, but it is difficult to tell the distance of bouys or which ones to head towards. We finally made it, around 11:30pm (May 2nd) with a full lunar torch guiding us past each hazard.
We dropped anchor, however, it did not set. Brian was adamant it was fine and we just needed to put more chain out… I was frustrated with that decision. The anchor alarm sounded twice in the night and Brian thought everything was fine. BUT, when we got up in the morning, we had slide 150ft… much too close to the rocks behind Tank Island.
We moved to a new location, behind Wisteria Island. We had friends, the ones who had done the convoy with us, we arrived to Key West the day before (Chris and Fiona on Carioca), but sadly we didn’t see them before they left again.Читать далее
Путешественник
We rebuilt the mast head that hold the sail up. The mast itself was fine. We just made it to Miami today, after a week in Key West.
Glovers Reef
29 апреля, Белиз ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
Our sail from Guanaja, Honduras to Glovers Reef, Belize, was mainly motor sailing with intermittent times to turn off the engine. We were uncomfortably close to the east/ windward side of Roatan at night, not leaving much room for error.
The upside to the engine on, is that when run at 11,000rpm, it only consumes a gallon per hour and gives us lots of momentum (fake wind) AND I can sleep in our bed without the awful sound of the auto helm. I heard Brian moving about and making coffee, so I popped my head out the aft hatch to see the sunrise and instead saw the tension on fishing lines, yelling “fish on.” We reeled in two tuna, and Brian spent the next hour fillet them, while I got the coffee.
I was excited to visit Glovers Reef again, and see Island Expeditions. Ashlynn and I spent Christmas there in 2019. Sadly, I found out that they had just closed down for the season and the last boat left on the morning we arrived. I had emailed them, and the Manta Cay Resort to ask if we could have dinner with them and offer to teach yoga to their guests — that was a NO. Apparently they are an all inclusive, expensive resort!
We arrived around 2pm. The passage in through the reef was unnerving as the water was so clear I could see the reef below and it was hard to tell the depth. We anchored in eel grass and it held nicely for the whole week!
Shortly after arriving, the Coast Guard and fisheries arrived (with their guns). There was a $30usd/ week to stay in the Atoll. They also asked to see our papers… and we had to admit that we didn’t check into the country. It was never our plan too, as we were just going to transit the outer islands and continue on to Mexico. The check-in is on the mainland, which is at least 36nm away. They gave us a warning, told us that others might not let us transit through and told us we could stay for a week and be on our way. We were still considering going to Lighthouse Reef or Sandbore Cay…. Sunday looked good, but I had an FTHS board meeting, so we decided Monday — however, when we took a closer look, we realized that Glovers was a much better anchorage, so stayed put. Our plan was to go to Mexico, check in and wait for a weather window. However, when I started looking at the requirements (Mexican liabilities insurance, captains license, and 400usd to check in, and the same to check out…. Plus the blog posts about boats being boarded and inspected, and sailors charged import taxes for food and extra outboard, we decided to forgo. Next was to contact Chris Parker for a forecast….and finally deciding to race a FRONT (storm) arriving in Mexico on Sunday/ Monday — by leaving Wednesday (April29th) and heading straight to Florida.
Every day we went snorkelling and saw lots of Rays, porcupine puffer fish, lion fish, lobster, sea cucumbers, slipper lobster, angel fish, big ones, of varying colors (some with blue mouth others with white). The coral was absolutely gorgeous, the purple fans, wine and green and yellows speckling the underwater landscape, against the clear blue water. The shelf was our favorite and where we saw the most rays.
We didn’t do much boat work other than dig out the water drenched foam from below the issued water keel tank…. Scraping my hands in the process. I also hand washed our Calvin Klein’s and bathing suits. Otherwise, I was working on Freeing the Human Spirit things, and teaching RWW.
We were visited by bright yellow tiny birds and black ones with orange and yellow…. I love these visits 🕊️!
We made our way to Isla Corisal Resort on Southwest Cay and went to the bar, one of the staff told us we could walk around, and so we didn’t, finding our way to the Island Expedition piece of land with so many great memories. The tents were gone, but the pegs still there, showing how small our cabana was.
The following evening we returned to the resort for super and it was awesome. There was a group of 22 women (from the USA) along with an older couple from Flagstaff, Arizona who were staying at the resort.
The following day we returned as Jill, the bartender, had gotten permission to sell us some fresh fruit and vegetables (for $20)… we were SO HAPPY! By the time we reached Florida the only thing we will have left is frozen fruit (with a busted blender 🙁) and some carrots. It was very kind of the resort to give/ sell us some of there provisions. Brian drew a picture of Jill, and Eddie the owner (who we never met). They also made, by special order some zucchini bread which we picked up the next day, and dropped off the drawings. Brian has also been doing pastels of me.
On our final night we went back and had dinner again. The resort and people were so welcoming! I even got a picture with Mira who was Ashlynn’s dive master when we were there last.
Brian climbed up to the crows nest to try and capture the beauty of this island before we left (and I stole a screen shot from Marisol’s Instagram page) to show you why I’ll go back again someday!
Up at dawn and hoisted the dinghy, closed the hatched and portals and lifted the anchor to set off 720nm to Florida.Читать далее
Guanaja, Honduras
22 апреля, Гондурас ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
Sadly, El bight was the only anchorage we visited in Honduras. It’s the time of year when Brian is anxious to move on and make sure he is in the USA and away from hurricanes. We tried to check-in in Guanaja but they were having some political issues, and immigration was shut down on the island. We were told that we would have to check in at Roatan.
We had thought about going there and looked a marinas, as we were still concerned about the rudder sound.
On our first day we decided to drop our laundry off at Jessica’s and hike the highest peak on the island, Michel’s Rock. Brian stopped at the 2/3 point and I continued to 7/8th. The trail was difficult to see and we needed to us the All Trails app, but it was burning through our phone power. We both wore pants, but my solo expedition to the top had my arms covered in scratches, my pants throughly stained green and two ticks (one I only found days later).
We went snorkelling on the reef beside the ostentatious Dunbar Hotel. It was clear and felt like snorkelling in an aquarium — saw porcupine puffer fish, squid, angel fish and more. Our snorkelling attempt two days later was cloudy.
We went into the town, twice. The first time we walked around, picked up a few groceries, although not much fresh food. We walked around the town and landed on a large pool that had several nurse sharks, turtles, rays and other fish. We meant a boy named Edwin who was curious about where we were from and the traveling we’ve done. Our second time we came, hoping that the fruit and veggie freighter had arrived. We went to DeBella Cafe and waited, but decided we needed to get going. However, we did by 3lbs of red snapper and a few mangos. There was a lot of police and military presence, which was uncomfortable. We found out that the party that lost the elections had tried to take over again, and a school was burnt down. The main town is an island…. And beside the island are houses on stilts… a fascinating world!
The night before we left, we went to Jessica’s Restaurant (the same women who did our laundry, runs a restaurant). It was on a different part of the cove and once we found it the view was great. The food options were to risky, but we both had a drink and sat with Belgium cruisers from FOX (Carlos and Cathy).
Sadly we didn’t get to ceonnect with Pierre and Laura, although we messaged and saw them working on their forestay. They had problems with it enroute from Providencia and also had this occur:
“Apart this problem in the middle of the trip, we had some emotions when meeting some boats : most of them were fishermen or cargo, but at some point we saw a group of 5 small boats, not really moving, maybe half a mile away.
We continued on our way when one of this boat started moving in our direction. It took him maybe 15 or 30 minutes to reach us.
We kept on our way. The boat was strange with 5 or 6 peoples inside, and one standing on the proa and making signs. He asked us if we had something to give them, food or anything else.
We answered we had nothing.
He asked about cigarettes…
We don’t have. Finally he said good bye, have a safe trip and they went back to where they came.
So no problem but some emotions. We still think that we were far enough from the coast !
That is the story about our trip, not completely simple but interesting 🤔
Hope to see you again. Enjoy Belize
Laura & Pierre”
—————————
Our last foray was to get gas before leaving for Belize. The current was strong, but Brian managed it well. We got 130 gallons ($6usd/gallon), earlier in the day, on the dinghy, we topped up the gas and our propane. By 4:30 we were on our way.’Читать далее
Pirates Passage
19 апреля, Колумбия ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C
The convoy left Providencia on Wednesday morning, except Pierre and Laura, who left Tuesday afternoon and were taking a more direct route to Honduras.
Lady Hawke and Lorena leaving at 8am and the other two at 9am. They caught up to us fast and passed us early on. We had a WhatsApp chat group that I had set up and these were the terms we agreed too:
- We are leaving at 8am
- We will sail on the west side, close to Beacon Cay
- We will communicate via WhatsApp and channel 68 (with check-ins every 4 hours)
- We will stay in visual distance of one another (line of sight might be hard… so screen distance)
- We will keep on AIS but go dark (no lights).
- If any of us run into trouble the others will circle round.
- Brian to follow up with Chris and we will share the forecast.
- Brian will fill a float plan and send out Emergency number for Colombian Navy.
Fiona was the link that kept us together on Whatapp and channel 68, trying to communicate. We sailed initially, then motor sailed and then just motored for the day…. Still having trouble keeping up and running at 1400rpm’s verse 1100. That extra bit doubled our fuel consumption to 2gph. Unfortunately, LadyHawke was feeling the same but didn’t have as much fuel as we did…. So they decided to change course and sail. We continued to check in with them, and watched them in Marine Traffic. They did have an incident where they were approached by a fishing boat near Seranilla Banks, but headed into a squall to reduce visibility and the fish boat stopped the following. Turns out they had a fishing net around their property and that is what slowed them down.
By Wednesday evening we were in a tight pack and had the main out, triple reef and the staysail. We wanted to keep a 1nm distance as we had no lights, just AIS. Lots of cargo traffic through the night which was comforting!
In the morning, the current was helping and the flow seemed to be veering west. Pangolin and Carioca decided to take the cut by Thunder Knoll and maximize the current. We had to decide if we would follow as it was a more dangerous route (concerning piracy) or be left to sail solo. Since we would be doing the majority of it in the daylight, we decided to follow along. The shift helped us to sail better and by noon on Thursday we had overtaken the vessels and were moving along at 8knots. At around 4pm we noticed that Carioca was sailing slow Ina different direction (their mailsail furler wasn’t working). Sadly, they had to move through 35knot winds with full main and decided to go to the Lee side of the Caymans to take it down.
We had another 2 days of sailing…. But it was quiet with very little traffic. We arrived in Guanaja in the afternoon on Saturday.
We had made good time and even ran the whisker pole on the jib the whole night for a downwind run. It made a big difference in our speed (motor sailing at 6.5-7knots).
On Friday night I saw a light off in the distance and casually remarked. Brian tried to investigate and got worried quick. I had determined it was Venus, but he was sure it was an unmarked vessel. A quick check on Starlink (with lat/ long and bearing) suggested it was a planet and the anxiety faded.
However, the rudder noise we heard in Cartagena was back.
Our interaction with wildlife on the passage was neat. We had a barn swallow fist us again. This time perched on the wench and then inside the pilot house. It allowed me to pat it… and it was vocal although I didn’t understand what it wanted (I tried water and nuts), perhaps it just wanted rest. We then had a red foot boobie catch a ride with us in the bow. Sadly, Brian chased him away as he didn’t like that it was pooing on the bow seat. We also caught a Mahi.
Overall it was a safe trip with no issues. Once we got to Guanaja (two days earlier then Chris Parker the forecaster had predicted) we anchored beside Pierre and Laura who had arrived there through the night. A dangerous entry, through the reefs, I can’t believe they did it at night.Читать далее
Providencia & Santa Catalina
15 апреля, Колумбия ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C
We left Linton Bay Marina on April 4th and sailed through Easter Sunday and arrived in Providencia on Monday morning around d 8:30am. The sail and winds were great, and we were on a close haul most of the time, one the same heading. We only ran the engine to boost the voltage for a few hours and arriving… otherwise it was all sail power.
We had a little bird, a swallow, stop on the Davits at the back of the boat, for a rest. So nice to see little creatures up close. It watched as we caught three Mahi-mahi in an 8 minute time span. They were small and a lot of work for Brian to fillet, but good eating!
The check in and out (Zarpe) of each country is a total pain in the ass. We had to use an agent again to check into Colombia, and we were meeting Mr Bush (72 years old) at the immigration dugout. An odd process where they video taped Brian giving the officer his passport, but more relaxed then other spots, perhaps because it was open air.
On Tuesday we went to Mr Bush’s store to pick up passports and we did some snorkeling (eels, rays and more).
On Wednesday we started approaching other boats to see if any were interested in travelling with us toward Honduras. Pierre (French) and Laura (Mexican) on Chogüi are going, but a more direct route through pirate land. Giorgio and Heyoung (Ladyhawke) are planning to go to Cayman ~ Canadian boat and they are Italian and Korean. We already knew Pura Vida (John-Michel and Kimberly) as they were beside us in Cartegena and are heading back.
We went to town and went to the hospital to check on my biopsy wound - it’s ok. Then continued walking and ended up at a Library. Brian was excited and we went back twice to donate 6-8 books in Spanish.
We stopped at a Cafe and meet Charlie Ottley (Film maker) and Guana from Romania (Transilvania). We invited them to the boat a day later and had sundowners, and then a couple games of pool back on the island. Interesting couple who film, Flavours of Romania.
The channel of the Bay is well marked with green and red bouts that flash in the night (and early morning), and for some reason make me feel safe. There is also a mother Mary statue on the hill above our anchorage (Fort Warwick, Santa Catalina). The island was hit hard by a hurricane in 2020 and is slowly rebuilding.
We did more snorkelling, visited lots of grocery stores, especially after the fruit boat arrived (and tried some new fruit including yellow dragon fruit). We discovered the ice cream store and went nearly everyday… and we walked to Almond Bay and beyond, then a few days later, we took a tuktuk to South West beach for an hour, and came back the opposite way, full traversing the island. It is beautiful and I wish we had taken more time to explore beyond what we could walk too.
Two more boats, Salty Dawgs who we knew, Brian on Pangolin and Chris and Fiona on Carioca arrived. We talked to them about a convoy, even though they were also going to Cayman… we could go as far as 18N and then divert WSW. We organized a WhatsApp group, messaged Chris Parker and held a meeting at the ice cream shop. Chris suggested waiting till Friday April 17th, the group wanted to leave on Wednesday (even though there wouldn’t be as much wind). We agreed with 8am Wednesday although Chris wasn’t happy and said we wouldn’t arrive till Monday to Honduras (**we arrived Saturday late afternoon).
We spent a lot of time polishing the stainless steel in the boat, and doing some boat chores. We also bought a machete and more wasp spray for potential pirates. I think we both just wanted to be on the other side of this passage as we had a heightened fear of pirates given what happened in Chiquita Beach.
One the last two days before we left, I cooked enough food for 6 nights… plus boiled eggs and salad for 2-3 nights. I was pleased that we had provisioned well and were ready to go.
The time before we left was filled out with fundraising and work with FTHS, plus teaching RWW classes, although when we are in Belize and Honduras it will be the same as Calgary time and much to early to teach anything but a 9/10am class (which will be 7am).
In all we spent 9 days in Providencia, and enjoyed the people, the ice cream/ frozen yogurt (with currents), getting the boat shiny, and getting some FTHS stuff completed, along with both business and personal taxes. Brian drew portraits of John-Michel and Kimberley (and they were thrilled to get them, asking that he sign them), and a pastel. He hurt his finger on the passage (not wrapping the Genoa furler sheet around the wench when letting it out), so guitar was more difficult. Arrived on a Monday and left in a convoy of 5 on the following Wednesday.Читать далее
Linton Bay
2 апреля, Панама ⋅ ⛅ 28 °C
It was mid afternoon when we realized that it was Easter weekend in a few days and if we didn’t get to Linton Bay tomorrow (Thursday) we would have to wait till Monday for our Zarpe (Departure papers). We devised a way plan, and quickly left Chichime and the San Blas Islands, getting to playa Chiquita just after nightfall. We decided to keep our anchor lights off as to not call attention to ourselves as we were the only boat in this uncomfortably roll Bay. After dinner, we took some melatonin to offset the heaving of the boat and fell to sleep. I awoke at 10:30pm to pee and as I was climbing back to bed… I heard someone call out. Immediately I woke Brian and we yelled at whomever was nearby. Rapidly trying to find clothes in the dark and make our way to the pilot house. A man had climbed aboard the boat and said he was swimming, wanted to rest, wanted a life jacket, and upset that his cell phone was wet. I just stood there as they spoke Spanish. Brian had aimed a spotlight at him and calmly told him to leave a few times. Finally he jumped back in the water and it wasn’t untill we put the spotlight on him did he swim away.
We sat in the pilot house trying to decide what to do next, Brian asking me if I had heard the fireworks earlier. I didn’t. We agreed that neither of us would be able to fall back asleep….and we might be in danger if we stayed. So we weighed anchor at 11:15pm and went to sea. A bumpy night!!
We arrived to Linton Bay an anchored at 7am. I tried to sleep for a couple hours, then we docked…. With some struggle due to angle and current.
We spent two nights at the marina and it was great!! There was a chandlery, a cafe and small grocery store (run by Charlie and his cat Captain) . We hired Luis to take us to the grocery store in town (Portobello), although not sure it was worth it, although the drive was nice.
We shower often, even though they weren’t hot, and were able to get out laundry done. We also managed to get our Zarpe, but they charged $400usd verse $120 had we waited till Monday (claiming that it was a RUSH fee).
We met the owner of the marina, Allen, and told him our story about Playa Chiquita. We had learn from the Chandlery that the fireworks Brian heard were actually gun shots and someone had been murdered. We found the news report for it (https://www.tvn-2.com/nacionales/provincias/hom…) and tried to contact the authorities with no luck. Allen suggested we needed to have wasp spray on the boat as we had no weapons to protect ourselves. We walked to the small Chinese run grocery in Linton, but weren’t successful. In the end Allen gave us one of his bottles before we sailed off to Isla de Providencia.
We made a report of the incident in the Caribbean Safety and Security Net (CSSN), and subsequently a sub stack article was written: https://open.substack.com/pub/loosecannon/p/pos….Читать далее
Guna Yala Islands (San Blas)
22 марта, Панама ⋅ ⛅ 27 °C
The San Blas island are a throw back in time to an earlier century. One where people lived off the land, had little electricity or potable water, no cars only carved out logs, and rules that were developed and enforced by a congress of like people. There are nearly 50,000 Gina’s scattered across 350 islands (and the mainland), who still live life this way. Some islands only have a couple families, some have little bars or restaurants and running water.
We snorkelled and walked the beaches of many of them, some inhabited and others not.
We were in three main island clusters: Salaradup, East Holendes (Swimming Pool, Banadup and Bug island), Green Island, Lemmon Cay (and a quick stop in Chichime), plus a check out at Porvenir (where they hold congress). I wrote an article for the Salty Dawgs detailing our journey to San Blas and the joy of being in these safe islands nestled off the coast of Panama: https://sdsa.memberclicks.net/my-favorite-ancho….
Here we also found new marine wonders… like the mermaids necklace. It looked like plastic in the water, so I removed it and realized it was alive. We looked it up later and realized it is a whelk snail egg sacks. We also found a very rare tritons trumpet (Large snail shell used in Hawaiian ceremonies), lots of big and living conch and starfish and strange remora fish that have suction at the top of there heads to attach to other creatures or boats.
Our next stop is Linton Bay, Panama for a few days to provision and find a weather window to Isla Providencia (Colombia).Читать далее
Panama Pacific
21 марта, Панама ⋅ ☀️ 32 °C
Arrived to Panama (another delayed flight) and flew directly over the Panama Canal, which was awesome! Brian greeted me at the airport with some macrons, fresh OJ and an 🍏. Bernie (who join Brian on the passage from Colombia to Panama) was waiting in the parking garage and since my flight was delayed we hit traffic leaving the city. A nice drive to Rio Mar, where he has a beachfront house. The caretaker, Tiburcio opened the gates and to my wonderful surprise, a dog - Lassie. The sweetest, calm, loving dog I’ve been around in awhile! After a beautiful walk on the beach we had a nice meal prepared by his sisters (Maureen lived next door) housekeeper, and went for a walk afterwards.
My Wednesday 6am class was now 5am as Panama doesn’t observe daylight savings. Up early to teach the class and then off to a hike in Cerro Chame. It was a challenge, with lots of stops, but we made it up and it was easier then down as I already had chin splints from wearing tight footwear for Ashlynn’s wedding. I had been stretching prior to the hike…. So I walked sideways or backwards down the mountain.
We stopped at a store on the way back and picked up a few groceries, then back to home base and out to the ocean for a swim. The water was rough and the current strong!
The outside of this place is so amazing, several little spots to do yoga or meditation, little benches and private areas, an outdoor shower and direct beach access and a nice separate bathroom and shower from the house. However, the room configuration, water pressure and maintenance would need to be addressed before I could think about hosting a yoga retreat there.
We went for another walk to Bernie’s old homestead (he grew up in Panama) which is now rented. He also has a home that’s rented in Panama City (and two houses in USA, with Virginia Beach being his main residence).
Thursday morning Bernie, Lassie (the dog) and I did yoga and it was so great to “lead” a class again. Bernie has a daily practice but I struggle with the consistency.
Breakfasts were a delight every morning! I was once again spoiled by having my coffee made for me… and Bernie made eggs in a corn tortilla, arepas (which cheese inside), grilled cheese, fresh OJ and a mountain of fruit. This was fuel for our visit to El Valle. A community nestled into a volcanic crater. We hiked to the top of a hill (much easier then the previous day) and met some school children who were interested in chatting. Part way down we stopped at a cleared piece of land and I explored (spotting a Rufous Motmot bird) while the men stood beside the mud hut. Across the stream lived other natives, perhaps the ones that dragged drink up the hill to sell to the tourists. Near the bottom we stopped at a waterfall pool and took a refreshing dip!
We explored the market, and I had my first Guama (Ice Cream Bean) fruit. Then we visited Bernie’s property (Casa Pangea) where he will soon build, and off to an early dinner at a boutique hotel in town, before heading back to the beachfront.
On the way to El Valle, they were paving the road and there was an hour delay. We were stopped in front of a large haciendas and property (finca) for sale. Brian called to inquire and we stopped on the way back to talk to the gardener and tried to see the place but couldn’t reach the owners/ real estate folk. Back at the beach folk we talked real estate and I peeped for my Friday class while Bernie and Brian went for a walk.
We managed to do two loads of laundry while at Bernie’s, and they needed to be started at 4am due to the low water pressure. After my class, we went for a swim, showered, ate breakfast, went and bought groceries with Bernie’s CRV and back to the house to relax before the driver arrived at 12:30 to take us to Panama City.
The driver/ taxi that Bernie uses came with a nice van and it was a quick drive but for finding the self check-in hotel (Casa Arias) in Old Town, which frustrated him. We finally got there with out 10 pieces of luggage (2 suitcases, 2 backpacks, 1 canvas bag, 1 bag with hiking boots, 1 brown bag, 2 grocery bag and 2 styrofoam coolers). Luckily our room was on the ground floor, although it was the size of a postage stamp. Oddly it was burning man themed, and had a beautiful courtyard, where plants hung from the balconies above and the rain fell into the pool. We spent the rest of the day, Friday, walking around old town, taking in the heritage…. Guessing about the shiny specs on the church turret was made of oyster shells. We stopped into small shops and ice cream stores and ate at a Peruvian/ Japanese restaurant before going back to the hotel. Our picture up was at 4:30am, so a hot shower and early to bed.
It seems the hotel was a popular pick up spot for people heading to the San Blas islands, as lots were up and waiting. The driver only arrived after 5am and only had room for 1 person. Brian. He took 5 pieces of luggage (my clothing), and drove off, leaving me with a number to call. I was pissed! I called Judy Lamb who runs the tour company and she wanted a photo of the luggage (I only took pictures of three). At the same time a driver was arriving (and my new friend of 30mins, Bonnie, was getting on). The driver started to grab my luggage and put it in the van. I went with it (quickly converting my final two bags into one). We took the very back jump seat and ended up with the cooler (which made a terrible styrofoam noise) between us and the canvas bag on the floor under the cooler and my backpack on top of me… with knees to my chest for 3 hours. Still upset but grateful I was enroute although I had no idea that we would be crossing the border back into Colombia, two hours into the ride, or need money. I scrambled to find my phone/ wallet and passport. Brian had called and messaged many times to check on me.
I arrived in Puerto Carti, hundreds of people milling about, wondering where to go, what Panga (boat) to get on. Finally I spotted Brian and we moved my load to his, realizing that our boots and my suitcase was missing an had been off loaded. Finally they arrived in another vehicle and after 60-90 minutes we boarder a boat to Salardup — where Lorena has been anchored alone for 5 days.
The trip reminded me of Ashlynn and I travelling from Hopkins to Glovers Atoll in Belize.
Relief for us both when we saw Lorena and once on her, the batteries had been sufficiently recharged by the sun.
Mentally and Physically exhausted — I went for an unusual afternoon nap, before Brian invited me to snorkel a distant refer that we swam to. Being back on the boat was so nice…. The sun, the sway, the rhythm, the ability to jump off when hot, and my bed all felt great ⛵️!Читать далее
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