Getting back into watch scheduling is difficult, especially on the first night of any journey. \u00a0One of us has to be on watch at all times and we\u2019ve been switching every 2 to 3 hours on our over nights for now. \u00a0We\u2019ve got great electronic tools to help watch for traffic and we use our auto pilot in which we\u2019ve programmed way points for the course to follow. \u00a0We do still rely on visual scans to make sure we have all bases covered. \u00a0
On the new boat we can no longer travel on the Intra Costal Waterway (ICW). \u00a0Our mast height is about 80 feet and there are many fixed bridges at 65 feet. \u00a0Our travel now must all be done on the ocean which means weather plays a bigger role in planning. Also, knowledge of appropriate inlets where we can safely get back into protected waters to anchor or get on a dock. \u00a0
Our first stop was Cape Lookout which is a beautiful remote area surrounded by low, islands, wild ponies and a beautiful light house. \u00a0We\u2019ve been here before and were happy to spend almost a week waiting for favorable weather to continue south. \u00a0We knew there was a cold front expected and the passing off shore of hurricane Isaias so we patiently waited for the right opportunity. \u00a0As it happened, both events seemed to occur at once and it was exciting! \u00a0
Our Wind Speed indicator recorded a gust of 55 Knots. \u00a010 of the 12 boats anchored in the bight dragged anchor including us. \u00a0The wind direction had changed 180 degrees with the gust and the anchors didn\u2019t have enough time to reset. \u00a0The wind continued to gust in the 30s and 40s while Jeff manned the helm and Mary went forward to raise the anchor. \u00a0We along with the other 9 boats hunted around to find a new spot to drop our anchor in driving rain and high winds. \u00a0Luckily it went well and was over quickly. \u00a0Just the way things go with this life, long periods of calm with interludes of amazement and occasionally a few moments or terror. \u00a0
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Next stop, Charleston. \u00a0We had realized before setting out that our chart data ran out about 20 miles north of Charleston. \u00a0Not a big deal as we could use the iPad and were quite familiar with the entry. \u00a0Moving further south would require data so we had a new chip waiting for us with S&J Yachts in Charleston. \u00a0It was a nice opportunity to meet Matt at the Charleston location. \u00a0He, along with Sharon and Jack of S&J Annapolis represent Discovery in the US. \u00a0They have been a helpful resource for us and it was \u00a0great to show them the Bluewater 50. \u00a0As always, we enjoyed our stay in Charleston but missed being able to visit some of the wonderful restaurants in town.<\/p>\r\n
During our travels we\u2019ve had the opportunity to use the engines and fly various sail combinations in various wind conditions. \u00a0We have two Yanmar 57 diesel engines, a roller furling main sail, a self tacking jib, a Genoa and our Bluewater Runner. \u00a0It was so rewarding to finally be out on the water putting Echo through her paces and seeing what she can do. \u00a0We have been quite pleased with her performance.
While traveling along the coast we heard our friend Ed from Freedom on the radio. Ed was at Jefferson Beach Marina in Michigan with us. He left a year ahead of us and has traveled up and down the east coast. This is not the first time we happened upon Ed out of the blue, crazy coincidences! Ed came in to visit once we dropped anchor at Cumberland Island.
Further travel included a few days exploring Cumberland Island in Georgia then on to Jekyll Island for another few days. \u00a0Both are barrier islands off the coast of Georgia with a somewhat similar history but very different feel today. \u00a0
Cumberland \u00a0was settled by the members of the Carnegie family and is now National Seashore. \u00a0There are many original houses but no other development, a rustic beautiful place.<\/p>\r\n
Jekyll Island is now owned by the state of Georgia and has a much more developed feel. \u00a0Both islands have a long history of Native American inhabitants then to be taken over by others as time moved on. \u00a0A big part of Jekyll Island\u2019s history involves a winter retreat sports club for some very wealthy families. \u00a0It was taken over by the state of Georgia after World War II with the historical buildings being very well kept and mostly available to tour. \u00a0Our ebikes have been great to have for exploring. \u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n
<\/p>\r\n\r\n <\/p>\r\n\r\n <\/p>\r\n\r\n Finally arrived at West Palm Beach on December 6th. We spent the first two nights at Palm Harbor Marina right in West Palm Beach, perfect spot to visit with our niece Maureen who lives in West Palm!<\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n\r\n We wanted to spend a few weeks on dock and have booked into South Lantana Marina till after the first of the year. Then we\u2019ll continue meandering.<\/p>\r\n\r\n <\/p>\r\n\r\n We wish all our friends and family a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year!<\/p>\r\n\r\n <\/p>\r\n\r\n Mary and Jeff<\/p>\r\n\r\n <\/p>\r\n\r\n <\/p>\r\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" We arrived in West Palm Beach Florida a few weeks ago and have been enjoying warm weather and sunshine. \u00a0We recognize how fortunate we are to be traveling during this crazy, difficult time and hope you get some enjoyment from … Continue reading
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Other stops were Fernandina Beach, St. Augustine and Ponce Inlet, all great places we have visited before on previous boats. Our friends Angie and Kelly live near Ponce and were happy to once again arrange dockage for us at their marina. Third boat, third time visiting. Thanks for the hospitality Angie and Kelly!
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