10-27/11-3-07 A Week’s Adventure – Larry’s Recap
What a week it was. The Intercoastal Waterway, Coinjock, the World Series, “the life changer”, XM on the flybridge, strong men and stronger coffee, the Weather Channel, Alligator River, maps, books & planning, the Milky Way, wine, vodka, and “lady Heineken”, Honey Crisp apples, the Neuse River, New Bern, a glimpse into the boat community, a thousand laughs and so much more. It was a good journey made great by the company of Captain Andy and Jim.
On the Move Again
The weather has been in our favor and we are on the move. Swansboro last night and in Wrightsville Beach today. Not much to say about Swansboro. The marina was fair. Tied up in the afternoon and watched football. Espo fixed a chicken stir fry for dinner (nice) and ended the evening with guitar in hand. Great fun.
We’re now seeing Dolphin every day. The water has changed. Cleaner, greener. Now, when you drop the anchor, you see it on the way down.
Today was our most challenging in terms of route planning. The bridges in NC have restricted openings. We timed our departure in order to make the bridge opening and que us up for the next one. If you don’t time it right, you can sit for as much as an hour. One of the bridges was closed from 1-4pm. We made the 1pm opening.
Espo is again in the galley – Shrimp Marinara, fresh green beans and whole wheat pasta. Speaking of shrimp: the shrimp boats have also been on the move.
What about NC attracted the military? There are bases everywhere. Today’s route included this little gem.
Photofest on the flybridge: Jim and Espo
Andy and Espo. Who is not wearing underware?
Day 3 Oh Ya!
Sunrise in Coinjock…
…is a beautiful thing. Mist on the river, red sunlight through the pines, boats quietly leaving the marina to resume the parade south.
Yesterday was my first day at Sea with Andy and Larry and it was a fine one. A bit cooler than we had hoped for, but it should warm up today. Lots of bridges, locks, and some open water to end the day.
My cardioligist will be happy to note that we all punked out on the 32 oz. Prime Rib that is the pride of the Coinjock Marina restaurant.
I did have a life changing experience last night but can’t talk about it. You’ll have to jump on board for a few days to experience it yourself.
We’re on “Larry time” today which means I was supposed to sleep until 9 because we have a short day ahead of us and we don’t expect to find a lot to do at the Alligator River Marina – our destination today. But the early activity woke me and I couldn’t resist the opportuinty to hijack Andy’s blog for a minute.
Big “ups” to the Captain for threading the needle last night and getting us into the tightest berth I’ve ever seen at a marina. For those of you who’ve never had to dock a boat, it’s a nerve-wracking experience in the best conditions. never mind doing it with wind and current and a big audience on the dock waiting for you to screw up. The skippper of Seadee has a whole new level of respect from his fellow captains.
Hearing a little activity down below now, time to sign off and get the rest of the day started.
I’m sure you’re still wondering “what the hell is a coinjock?” Google it – I gotta go…
Read MoreNorfolk, Coinjock NC
Finally made it to Norfolk. Three days of the worst weather I have ever seen. I felt like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. Wind,rain. Wind RAIN. WIND, RAIN.
I have some photos of Norfolk, but it’s the same war ships that we’ve seen before on the trip north. Still impressive, still gray.
Jim and Larry are now aboard.
What fun. We are having a great time. More wind in Norfolk and we waited it out by eating, drinking and very a very interesting night at the Commodore Theatre. A movie theatre serving dinner and a movie. In this case, the movie was Michael Clayton. Three thumbs up.
50 miles today. A great day on the water. Now in Coinjock NC. Famous for 32oz prime rib and fuel.
You may now see some posts from Larry and Jim. Could be weird stuff. Reader beware.
Read MoreMerritt Island Weather
