|
|
|
|
 The weather looked manageable for
our leg from Hobucken (RE Mayo marina)
to the mouth of the Alligator River. The Toy told us to expect rain and
raw conditions but no lightning or thundershowers. We cast off at 0800
the rains came by 0900. SCB put on his full suit rain gear and drove
the full route. The winds were blustery and raw and conditions
generally miserable but SCB pulled it off with style and grace. I was
reminded of a joke my wife likes to tell and, for the first time,
realized the humor of it. Wife Netty was born and raised in a seacoast
village in Holland - she tells this joke in a sing-song dialect voice:
Two Dutch women meet at the market and have the following dialog: Werk
je Man? Nee hij vaart!
English translation: Does your husband work? Oh no, he's a seaman.
|
|
|
 While SCB worked to keep us afloat an on course, I spent the day in the
galley making coffee and sandwiches and trying to stay unsick. I am
pleased to report that I did not get seasick yesterday or today during
seas nearly as dramatic as our first night out. I want to believe it's
because I found my sea legs, but it could also be from the other things
I am trying. My wife stuck a waterproof bag of ginger snaps into my
duffel bag that seem to help. I have also heard that nicotine helps and
wish to thank my sister-in-law Ineke for leaving me her windproof light
during her last visit to Wilmington. However, the thing that I think
works best is the pressure point wrist bands that First Mate Ann
suggested I try before we shipped out. If any aspiring sailor reading
this would like to try my expensive patches, just tell me so on the
Guestbook and I will send them to you (less one that I deep-sixed).
|
|
|
 The night spent on anchor at Deep Point
was very relaxing. Since there
is no power hookup, we conserved power with some reading and an early
turn in. Jule-III is stable and sound in a flowing current. Rains
ended about midnight.
|
|
|
 On Friday we weighed anchor at first light and set off for Elizabeth
City. The Alligator river was a great cruise, but Albemarle Sound was a
very exciting ride. We had gusting Northeasterly winds on our bow the
whole time so were unable to set sail and could only maintain 4 or 5
knots. Sea swells of five feet had Jule-III galloping and cross winds
were treacherous. We spelled each other at the helm and I had the
opportunity to experience first hand the responsiveness and fun of
piloting a magnificent vessel. I also experienced the terror of
navigating mine fields of lobster pods during churning seas in a single
propeller boat. And the joy of success.
|
|
|
 We docked at the Pelican Marina in
Elizabeth City. What a great place
this is: Fine restaurants, walking distance to town and, best of all,
hot showers! For the first time in five days a shave and shower! Ah la
dolce vita.
Weather may keep us moored here for a few days. Next leg: Dismal Swamp
and Norfolk.
|
|
;
