Thursday, May 31, 2007
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Monday, May 28,2007 - Little River to the Town of Hertford, NC on the Perquimans River
Hoping to get away from the blind mosquitoes, we pulled the anchor around 0731 and departed Little River for Hertford, NC. We ran southeast to the mouth of Little River, around a point of land and then northwest up the Perquimans River for about 10 miles to the little town of Hertford, NC. The little village seems undiscovered by cruising boats and by tourists alike. Some of the houses date from antebellum and even Revolutionary War times.
We anchored in about 10 feet of water within sight of the town. We took Sailor in at 1230 , nearly 16 hours since his last trip to shore. He didn’t seem to mind much; he still took his time to find just the right spot. We walked around town but nearly everything was closed because of the holiday {Memorial day).
We went back to town about 1700 to see if we could get to the grocery store. We were told that Food Lion was a short walk away but it turned out to be more than a mile to the store. We checked on a taxi but Herford doesn’t have taxi service, As a result we could buy only what we could carry back to the dock.
We had to walk fast since we had to be back before dark. Dora was pretty tired by the time we reached Seascape.
We anchored in about 10 feet of water within sight of the town. We took Sailor in at 1230 , nearly 16 hours since his last trip to shore. He didn’t seem to mind much; he still took his time to find just the right spot. We walked around town but nearly everything was closed because of the holiday {Memorial day).
We went back to town about 1700 to see if we could get to the grocery store. We were told that Food Lion was a short walk away but it turned out to be more than a mile to the store. We checked on a taxi but Herford doesn’t have taxi service, As a result we could buy only what we could carry back to the dock.
We had to walk fast since we had to be back before dark. Dora was pretty tired by the time we reached Seascape.
Saturday and Sunday, May 26 - 27, 2007 - Anchored in Little River, NC
We spent both days doing chores and listening to NPR. I finished stripping the varnish off the starboard pilothouse door with a small scraper that I sharpened frequently. We used the vacuum cleaner to suck up blind mosquitoes several times each day. Each time we did this there were fewer so they must all arrive at night.
We ran the generator for up to five hours each day to try to put a complete charge on the house batteries. I was hoping that they would charge quicker than that but the 40 amp charger just takes a long time to recharge six batteries that are drawn down each night by the inverter. We may have to stop using the freezer and just buy ice whenever we can. The refrigerator will keep everything else cool.
Tim got home Sunday afternoon. After his ship docked in New Jersey, he flew to Norfolk, VA and Annie picked him up at the airport. We rain to shore in the late afternoon to welcome him home and walk Sailor.
We ran the generator for up to five hours each day to try to put a complete charge on the house batteries. I was hoping that they would charge quicker than that but the 40 amp charger just takes a long time to recharge six batteries that are drawn down each night by the inverter. We may have to stop using the freezer and just buy ice whenever we can. The refrigerator will keep everything else cool.
Tim got home Sunday afternoon. After his ship docked in New Jersey, he flew to Norfolk, VA and Annie picked him up at the airport. We rain to shore in the late afternoon to welcome him home and walk Sailor.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Friday, May 25, 2007 - Anchored in Little River, NC
We had a pleasant night at anchor near the mouth of Deep Creek. Blind mosquitoes had accumulated in enormous numbers mostly in the aft deck area against the bulkhead out of the wind. Although they don’t bite they swarm around you and leave green spots wherever they come to rest. The spots are difficult to remove and require strong cleaning materials to get the stains out.
Dave Smith and their family friend, Annie Slye, came out to where we were anchored about 1000 in the catamaran and we all got aboard and went for a sail on Little River among all the crab trap floats. There wasn’t much wind but it was a beautiful, cool day to be on the water. We had lunch and then rafted the catamaran with Seascape. Annie had to go to work so I ran her back to Tim’s house around 1430 in the dinghy. Dora and Sailor took naps while Dave and I talked.
Later, we took the catamaran with the dinghy in tow back to Tim’s dock. Dora and I took showers while Dave cooked dinner. Annie arrived from work in time to join us for a drink on the back porch before dinner.
We headed back to Seascape just before dark, and started the generator to recharge the house bank of batteries. We watched a movie while we had the generator running and turned in around 2200.
Dave Smith and their family friend, Annie Slye, came out to where we were anchored about 1000 in the catamaran and we all got aboard and went for a sail on Little River among all the crab trap floats. There wasn’t much wind but it was a beautiful, cool day to be on the water. We had lunch and then rafted the catamaran with Seascape. Annie had to go to work so I ran her back to Tim’s house around 1430 in the dinghy. Dora and Sailor took naps while Dave and I talked.
Later, we took the catamaran with the dinghy in tow back to Tim’s dock. Dora and I took showers while Dave cooked dinner. Annie arrived from work in time to join us for a drink on the back porch before dinner.
We headed back to Seascape just before dark, and started the generator to recharge the house bank of batteries. We watched a movie while we had the generator running and turned in around 2200.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Thursday, May 24, 2007 - Edenton Docks Marina to Little River, NC
Dave Smith arrived just before 0800 to ride back with us to Little River near where his son Tim lives and where he moors his catamaran. We bought some pastries and bread from the bakery near the marina and enjoyed them with coffee for breakfast. We departed the marina at 0915. It was a fine morning, cool and clear with a light wind from the east.
The trip took about five and one half hours. We selected a good place to anchor near to where Deep Creek joins Little River. Tim’s house is located about a mile up Deep Creek.
Dave, Sailor and I took the dinghy to Tim’s house and then used his truck to go back to Edenton to pick up Dave’s car. On the way we stopped at a small gun and archery store to buy me a fishing license so I can fish on our cruise to the coast with the Smith family. I bought a 10 day license for $10.00.
When we got back from Edenton, we went back to Seascape for dinner. Dora roasted a pork roast with sweet potatoes and green beans. I took Dave back to Tim’s house just before dark. There were hundreds of blind mosquitoes hitting me in the face on the way back and the aft deck area was covered with them.
The trip took about five and one half hours. We selected a good place to anchor near to where Deep Creek joins Little River. Tim’s house is located about a mile up Deep Creek.
Dave, Sailor and I took the dinghy to Tim’s house and then used his truck to go back to Edenton to pick up Dave’s car. On the way we stopped at a small gun and archery store to buy me a fishing license so I can fish on our cruise to the coast with the Smith family. I bought a 10 day license for $10.00.
When we got back from Edenton, we went back to Seascape for dinner. Dora roasted a pork roast with sweet potatoes and green beans. I took Dave back to Tim’s house just before dark. There were hundreds of blind mosquitoes hitting me in the face on the way back and the aft deck area was covered with them.
Wednesday, May 23. 2007 - Edenton Dock Marina, NC
We spent nearly the entire day watching the process of moving a historic lighthouse from the bank of a creek near downtown to the waterfront just west of the marina. We could watch most of the move from Seascape’s aft deck. Dave Smith came by about noon to visit and watch with us. He had driven down Tuesday from Sharpsburg, MD to work on his catamaran at Tim’s house.
The lighthouse is a two story structure with a light on top. The lighthouse was built in 1886. A man named Emmett Williams moved the lighthouse from its original perch on pilings in the Albemarle Sound at the mouth of the Roanoke River in the 1950s. It was his home until 1995. The lighthouse is the last surviving light of the 20 that once dotted North Carolinas inland waterways. The Town of Edenton now owns the building and the 300-pound Fresnel lens from the lighthouse that will be placed back in the lighthouse when the renovation is finished. Edenton plans to make the building a maritime center.
The lighthouse is a two story structure with a light on top. The lighthouse was built in 1886. A man named Emmett Williams moved the lighthouse from its original perch on pilings in the Albemarle Sound at the mouth of the Roanoke River in the 1950s. It was his home until 1995. The lighthouse is the last surviving light of the 20 that once dotted North Carolinas inland waterways. The Town of Edenton now owns the building and the 300-pound Fresnel lens from the lighthouse that will be placed back in the lighthouse when the renovation is finished. Edenton plans to make the building a maritime center.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Tuesday, May 22, 2007 - Edenton Docks City Marina
We bought some pastries for breakfast and freshly baked bread at a newly opened bakery near the marina. Later, the dockmaster drove us to the grocery store and Laundromat and dropped us off. We called him and he picked us up when we had finished. On the way back we stopped at a gas station for fuel for the dinghy outboard.
After lunch I went to watch the Edenton Light house being made ready to load on a barge so it could be moved to a new location on a vacant lot just west of the marina. Tomorrow they plan to load it on the barge around 0700 and unload it at the new sight by 0730. That seems improbable but we will see tomorrow. The dockmaster told us that we could not leave between 0700 and 0900 because the barge will block the harbor entrance.
The evening was cool for this time of year. We needed long pants and a sweater. Dora made chicken for dinner.
After lunch I went to watch the Edenton Light house being made ready to load on a barge so it could be moved to a new location on a vacant lot just west of the marina. Tomorrow they plan to load it on the barge around 0700 and unload it at the new sight by 0730. That seems improbable but we will see tomorrow. The dockmaster told us that we could not leave between 0700 and 0900 because the barge will block the harbor entrance.
The evening was cool for this time of year. We needed long pants and a sweater. Dora made chicken for dinner.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Sunday, May 20, 2007 - Little River to Edenton, NC
We pulled anchor about 0900 in Little River and headed west up Albemarle Sound for the town of Edenton, NC. We headed directly into a west wind all the way. It was choppy but comfortable. Edenton has a small marina for visiting boaters inside a breakwater. Boaters can dock free for 48 hours. After 48 hours they charge $1.00/foot/day for up to a week. The only other charge ie $3.00/day for electricity. The facilities are very nice with clean showers and free wireless internet. Surrounding the marina is a well maintained park that was very busy on Sunday afternoon and evening.
Edenton has an extensive historic district. It is the second oldest town in NC. A permanent settlement was established in the 1650s. Some of the original homes are still standing. It was also the first capitol of NC.
After we hooked up we both took showers wend went for a walk around town. We went for a second long walk before dinner to look at some of the beautiful historic homes.
Edenton has an extensive historic district. It is the second oldest town in NC. A permanent settlement was established in the 1650s. Some of the original homes are still standing. It was also the first capitol of NC.
After we hooked up we both took showers wend went for a walk around town. We went for a second long walk before dinner to look at some of the beautiful historic homes.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Saturday, May 19, 2007 - East Lake to Little River off Albemarle Sound, NC
The high winds diminished during the night enough for us to cross Albemarle Sound. We hurriedly prepared to leave. We took Sailor to shore, raised the dinghy and outboard and pulled the anchor in less than an hour and were underway by 0815. We backtracked out of East lake using the navigation program. I don’t think we could have gotten in or out of the Lake without the program because the route was circuitous and shallow.
By the time we reached Albemarle Sound the wind had picked up some making the Sound choppy with white caps.
Rather than going all the way to Edenton, NC we decided to cross the Sound and go up Little River and anchor. Both the Sound and Little River were cluttered with crab traps so we had to maintain a constant watch and change course frequently. It would have been easy to overlook one of the trap’s buoys and wind the line and the trap on Seascape’s shaft and propeller.
We found a place to anchor among the crab traps near a sandy shore where we could take Sailor. About 1730 we went for a ride in the dinghy up Little River to Deep Creek. Tim Smith, one of our friends from when we lived in Vero Beach, has a new home on the Creek. Tim’s parents, Dave and Helen, keep their 44 foot Voyage catamaran tied up at his house. We found his house and the sailboat and turned around to head back to Seascape since we knew no one was home.
On the way back we pulled up to a sandy place along the shore of Little River near where we were anchored and found a very large dead dolphin washed up on the beach. When we got to the boat I called Billy Brooks, who I used to work with, and asked him to notify the state biologists about the dead animal. They should be able to locate it with the GPS coordinates. The evening and night turned out to be very pleasant at anchor.
By the time we reached Albemarle Sound the wind had picked up some making the Sound choppy with white caps.
Rather than going all the way to Edenton, NC we decided to cross the Sound and go up Little River and anchor. Both the Sound and Little River were cluttered with crab traps so we had to maintain a constant watch and change course frequently. It would have been easy to overlook one of the trap’s buoys and wind the line and the trap on Seascape’s shaft and propeller.
We found a place to anchor among the crab traps near a sandy shore where we could take Sailor. About 1730 we went for a ride in the dinghy up Little River to Deep Creek. Tim Smith, one of our friends from when we lived in Vero Beach, has a new home on the Creek. Tim’s parents, Dave and Helen, keep their 44 foot Voyage catamaran tied up at his house. We found his house and the sailboat and turned around to head back to Seascape since we knew no one was home.
On the way back we pulled up to a sandy place along the shore of Little River near where we were anchored and found a very large dead dolphin washed up on the beach. When we got to the boat I called Billy Brooks, who I used to work with, and asked him to notify the state biologists about the dead animal. They should be able to locate it with the GPS coordinates. The evening and night turned out to be very pleasant at anchor.
Friday, May 18, 2007 - Anchored in East Lake, Off the Alligator River, NC
We had northeast winds and rain all night. The motion of the boat from the wind and waves wasn’t too bad to sleep but the sound of the wind howling was irritating and the volume seemed to increase through the night. I was up hourly to check how the dinghy was riding tethered to the transom and how much rain water it was collecting.
We were both dreading taking Sailor to shore for his morning trip because it was rougher than last evening. We put on our foul weather gear and rode the waves back to the same spot we had gone before. I think this time Sailor understood what he was supposed to do because he got right down to business and jumped back into the boat. We made a hardy breakfast and drank a lot of coffee because we were both chilled.
After lunch we raised the steadying sail in an attempt the reduce the swinging on the anchor. Seascape was swinging back and forth on an arch of nearly 110 degrees without the sail. With the sail raised the arch was reduced by 25 degrees making the motion of the boat a little better. The wind is supposed to subside some tonight.
We were both dreading taking Sailor to shore for his morning trip because it was rougher than last evening. We put on our foul weather gear and rode the waves back to the same spot we had gone before. I think this time Sailor understood what he was supposed to do because he got right down to business and jumped back into the boat. We made a hardy breakfast and drank a lot of coffee because we were both chilled.
After lunch we raised the steadying sail in an attempt the reduce the swinging on the anchor. Seascape was swinging back and forth on an arch of nearly 110 degrees without the sail. With the sail raised the arch was reduced by 25 degrees making the motion of the boat a little better. The wind is supposed to subside some tonight.
Thursday, May 17, 2007 - Belhaven to Albemarle Sound, NC
Departed at 0700. The weather was overcast but calm. We traveled east for about five miles on the Pungo River and then turned north in the Alligator River - Pungo River Canal. The 20 mile long canal is a straight, narrow ditch that connects the two rivers and avoids going east across Pamlico Sound. In the canal we passed a Carver motor yacht aground near the starboard bank. There are many snags on both sides of the canal so staying in the center is very important. Several boats tried to give him a wake in an attempt to lift the boat enough that he could back off. Because of he snags they could have been causing more damage to the boat’s bottom and running gear.
When we reached the Alligator River it was about three miles wide. We had a 20 mile run up the center of the river. By then, it had started to rain and the wind had swung to the north. We decided to anchor in the north end of East Lake just before where the Alligator River enters Albemarle Sound. The sound is 10 miles wide at that point and was getting pretty rough. We anchored at 1500 in eight feet of water on the Danforth with 90 feet of rode.
About 1730 we decided we had to take Sailor to shore even though it was raining and the wind was blowing 20 knots from the north. Lowering the inflatable and the outboard engine in the wind was a real challenge but we did OK. It was a rough ride and when we got to shore Sailor didn’t want to get out of the boat. I carried him to shore but he just followed me around for 15 minutes and wouldn’t do anything. Finally he peed and I loaded him back in the boat and headed back. The other thing can wait until tomorrow. The evening was rainy and chilly.
When we reached the Alligator River it was about three miles wide. We had a 20 mile run up the center of the river. By then, it had started to rain and the wind had swung to the north. We decided to anchor in the north end of East Lake just before where the Alligator River enters Albemarle Sound. The sound is 10 miles wide at that point and was getting pretty rough. We anchored at 1500 in eight feet of water on the Danforth with 90 feet of rode.
About 1730 we decided we had to take Sailor to shore even though it was raining and the wind was blowing 20 knots from the north. Lowering the inflatable and the outboard engine in the wind was a real challenge but we did OK. It was a rough ride and when we got to shore Sailor didn’t want to get out of the boat. I carried him to shore but he just followed me around for 15 minutes and wouldn’t do anything. Finally he peed and I loaded him back in the boat and headed back. The other thing can wait until tomorrow. The evening was rainy and chilly.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007 - Belhaven Waterway Marina
The last day in Belhaven was a work day. We finished washing the cabin doors, washed the entire outside of the boat, washed clothes, and generally got Seascape ship shape for departure on Thursday. The wind blew hard all day from the southeast and seemed to increase even more later in the day. A cold front is expected on Thursday. Brenda Porter took Dora to the grocery store to restock our food and supplies. We hated to leave the friends we had made.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Tuesday, May 15, 2007 - Belhaven, NC
Tuesday was a lazy, pleasant day. It was sunny and cool but a little windy. Dora and I got haircuts at a salon a block away. Two young women had just opened for business. They didn’t even have their barber chairs yet. We were both pleased with our haircuts. We washed the louvered cabinet doors. Would you believe there were 31 cabinet doors, not counting the six room doors.
The marina was completely full by late afternoon. One of the boats was a 55 foot Trumphy that was built in the early 1960s. It is a beautiful wooden motor yacht that is being perfectly maintained. The abundant varnished mahogany was flawless. We went back to “Fish Hooks” for dinner. The restaurant was nearly full and about half the customers were from the marina.
The marina was completely full by late afternoon. One of the boats was a 55 foot Trumphy that was built in the early 1960s. It is a beautiful wooden motor yacht that is being perfectly maintained. The abundant varnished mahogany was flawless. We went back to “Fish Hooks” for dinner. The restaurant was nearly full and about half the customers were from the marina.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Monday, May 14, 2007 - Belhaven Waterway Marina, NC
Another pretty day in Belhaven, NC. We went to the library and published three days of our journal and checked our e-mail. When we got back we sanded the cap rails in preparation for another coat of varnish. After lunch I varnished while Dora supervised and cleaned up my messes.
We got to watch Les and Brenda haul an old, wooden Egg Harbor motor yacht on the railway. They made it look easy. The railway puts much less strain on boats than a travel lift because of better weight distribution. Les said he hauls a lot of wooden boats for that reason.
We went for another ride on the tandem bicycle through the neighborhoods before sunset. We had chicken fried steak, noodles and broccoli for dinner and watched “Pulp Fiction.”
We got to watch Les and Brenda haul an old, wooden Egg Harbor motor yacht on the railway. They made it look easy. The railway puts much less strain on boats than a travel lift because of better weight distribution. Les said he hauls a lot of wooden boats for that reason.
We went for another ride on the tandem bicycle through the neighborhoods before sunset. We had chicken fried steak, noodles and broccoli for dinner and watched “Pulp Fiction.”
Monday, May 14, 2007
Sunday, May 13, 2007 - Belhaven Waterways Marina, NC
A cold front blew in during the night and it was windy and cooler when we got up. It was very chilly by evening. Varnishing was out of the question, so I decided to work in the engine room. The Walbro pump on the GCF fuel polishing system had started to labor like it was pulling against a vacuum. I removed the filter to see if it was clogged but it looked as if it had been just installed. Since there doesn’t seem to be any clogs in the GCF system, I suspect that the pump is going bad. It has been running 24 hours a day for over two years so it doesn’t surprise me. While I was messing with the fuel systems I changed the Racor filter for the generator. It was badly clogged with fine black sediments.
Dora went the grocery store with Brenda Porter, one of the marina’s owners, and two guy docked next to us that are ferrying a Grand Banks north. Later, I went to the dump with her husband to dispose of five gallons of used engine oil. We spent the rest of the day straightening up the boat and relaxing. Dora made vegetable soup for dinner.
Dora went the grocery store with Brenda Porter, one of the marina’s owners, and two guy docked next to us that are ferrying a Grand Banks north. Later, I went to the dump with her husband to dispose of five gallons of used engine oil. We spent the rest of the day straightening up the boat and relaxing. Dora made vegetable soup for dinner.
Saturday, May 12, 2007 - Belhaven Waterways Marina
We went for an early walk through the neighborhoods near the waterfront before breakfast. There was very little activity in town on an early Saturday morning. I started applying masking tape in preparation for varnishing the cap rails. It was overcast with a few drops of rain now and then so varnishing didn’t look likely.
While I was taping, we heard sirens and horns so we walked to town to see what the commotion was. It was a home coming parade for the Belhaven High School Wildcats. Either they still have segregated schools or they have separate black and white home comings, because everyone involved in or watching the parade was black. It was a lot of fun. The drummers and dancers were especially good.
I finally got to varnish after lunch and luckily it didn’t rain. A cold front is predicted for tomorrow so the second coat of varnish may have to wait for a day or two. Dora washed the louvered cabinet doors, from the galley and pantry, on the dock. We had grilled steak for dinner and watched another movie from the marina’s collection.
While I was taping, we heard sirens and horns so we walked to town to see what the commotion was. It was a home coming parade for the Belhaven High School Wildcats. Either they still have segregated schools or they have separate black and white home comings, because everyone involved in or watching the parade was black. It was a lot of fun. The drummers and dancers were especially good.
I finally got to varnish after lunch and luckily it didn’t rain. A cold front is predicted for tomorrow so the second coat of varnish may have to wait for a day or two. Dora washed the louvered cabinet doors, from the galley and pantry, on the dock. We had grilled steak for dinner and watched another movie from the marina’s collection.
Friday, May 11, 2007 - Belhaven Waterway Marina, NC
The little marina was so nice and we had such a pleasant evening, we asked the owners about a weekly rate so we could get the steering fixed properly and do some varnishing and other work that needs to be done. The rate was $275.00/ week plus $7.00/day for 50 amp electric. We decided to stay and went right to work. I figured out how to adapt the fittings that the shop had in stock connect to the steering system so I went back to the shop and had another line made. We installed and bled the hydraulic lines, installed a check valve in the bilge pump exhaust hose, washed out the bilge, and sanded the cap rails in preparation for the first coat of varnish on Saturday.
The marina had a side-by-side bicycle for two with a basket in the back. Dora, Sailor and I went for a tour of the quaint little town with street after street of old and new Victorian style homes. We were both beat by the end of the day. After dinner we watched a DVD from the marina’s collection.
The marina had a side-by-side bicycle for two with a basket in the back. Dora, Sailor and I went for a tour of the quaint little town with street after street of old and new Victorian style homes. We were both beat by the end of the day. After dinner we watched a DVD from the marina’s collection.
Thursday, May 10, 2007 - Oriental to Belhaven, NC
Awoke at 0700 to a beautiful calm morning. We were away from the dock by 0800. The Neuse river was calm with a cool breeze. We encountered some fog for about an hour soon after we left. The radar and the navigation program made dealing with the fog easy. It started raining as we crossed the Pamlico River.
We decided that Pantego creek near Belhaven, NC would be a good place to anchor. As we were getting close the autopilot stared acting up. When we switched it off it took two turns of the wheel to get the boat to change course. I was pretty sure that we had air in the hydraulic steering system caused by a leak. I found that fluid was leaking from a pinhole in one of the hydraulic line leading from the autopilot.
We proceeded cautiously but decided to pull into a marina instead of anchoring so I could work on the steering and get any parts I needed. There were three small marinas to choose from. We picked the Belhaven Waterway Marina because it was closest to downtown and maybe where I could have some hoses fabricated. The route to the marina wasn’t obvious but the marina owner talked us in after we entered the towns breakwater at the mouth of Pantego Creek.
It turned out to be a pleasant little marina that a young couple have been fixing up over the past three years. After we docked, I removed the hydraulic line and walked a couple of blocks to a local parts and repair shop that works mostly on farm equipment but had a little of everything, They made the line in a few minutes but didn’t have enough fittings to make two. The leaking line was so badly deteriorated I knew that I should replace both lines.
We went out for dinner and had some delicious, fresh bluefish at a small seafood restaurant near the marina.
We decided that Pantego creek near Belhaven, NC would be a good place to anchor. As we were getting close the autopilot stared acting up. When we switched it off it took two turns of the wheel to get the boat to change course. I was pretty sure that we had air in the hydraulic steering system caused by a leak. I found that fluid was leaking from a pinhole in one of the hydraulic line leading from the autopilot.
We proceeded cautiously but decided to pull into a marina instead of anchoring so I could work on the steering and get any parts I needed. There were three small marinas to choose from. We picked the Belhaven Waterway Marina because it was closest to downtown and maybe where I could have some hoses fabricated. The route to the marina wasn’t obvious but the marina owner talked us in after we entered the towns breakwater at the mouth of Pantego Creek.
It turned out to be a pleasant little marina that a young couple have been fixing up over the past three years. After we docked, I removed the hydraulic line and walked a couple of blocks to a local parts and repair shop that works mostly on farm equipment but had a little of everything, They made the line in a few minutes but didn’t have enough fittings to make two. The leaking line was so badly deteriorated I knew that I should replace both lines.
We went out for dinner and had some delicious, fresh bluefish at a small seafood restaurant near the marina.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Wednesday, May 9, 2007 - Beaufort to Oriental, NC
I checked out the courtesy car when the marina office opened and went back to the NAPA store to pick up the alternator belts I had ordered on Tuesday. I forgot to mention yesterday that while I was installing the batteries I noticed that one of the two belts that drive the 200 amp alternator that charges the house bank was coning apart. On my way to Moorehead City, I had to wait nearly 15 minutes for the 0800 bridge opening because the were letting all the boats through that had been waiting for the weather to improve. I was wishing that we were with them. I got back at 0830 and had the belts on by 0845 but we didn’t have enough time to make the 0900 bridge opening. We left anyway but had to circle back past the Moorehead City port to bypass the bascule bridge. We probably didn’t save any time but at least we didn’t have to wait for the bridge for 30 minutes.
Most of the morning was spent in a land cut going against the current. By the time we got to the Neuse River the wind had picked up making the nearly four mile wide river pretty rough and there were heavy rain clouds building to the north. We decided to head for Oriental, NC and call it a day. We pulled into a slip at the Oriental Marina at 1230, just in time for a downpour. The marina turned out to be very nice. After lunch I changed the oil in the main engine because it was raining and we couldn’t do anything else.
We walked a couple of miles to a small grocery store in the afternoon and got to see nearly the whole town in the process. We had drinks by the pool and talked to other boaters when we got back. We had fried chicken with macaroni and cheese for dinner. By 12000 the marina was full.
Most of the morning was spent in a land cut going against the current. By the time we got to the Neuse River the wind had picked up making the nearly four mile wide river pretty rough and there were heavy rain clouds building to the north. We decided to head for Oriental, NC and call it a day. We pulled into a slip at the Oriental Marina at 1230, just in time for a downpour. The marina turned out to be very nice. After lunch I changed the oil in the main engine because it was raining and we couldn’t do anything else.
We walked a couple of miles to a small grocery store in the afternoon and got to see nearly the whole town in the process. We had drinks by the pool and talked to other boaters when we got back. We had fried chicken with macaroni and cheese for dinner. By 12000 the marina was full.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007 - Beaufort Docks Marina
I got up early and started removing the six golf cart batteries that make up our house bank which provides all of our DC power and power for the inverter which in turn converts 12 volts CD to 120 volts AC. The new batteries were delivered at 1000. By the time the batteries were installed it was 1230. I was tired and sore after lifting 12 heavy batteries on and off the boat and in and out of the engine room.
We went to the North Carolina Maritime Museum in the afternoon. It was only two block from our slip. I found it fascinating.. It had excellent exhibits of North Carolina’s coastal cultural heritage, ecosystems and maritime history. They had finely made scale models of sharpies and other sailboats unique to the Carolinas, skipjack dredgers and menhaden trawlers among others. There was a watercrafts center across the street from the museum which gives boat building classes .
Overall we thoroughly enjoyed our stay in Beaufort although we probably would not have stayed as long if it hadn’t been for the bad weather.
We went to the North Carolina Maritime Museum in the afternoon. It was only two block from our slip. I found it fascinating.. It had excellent exhibits of North Carolina’s coastal cultural heritage, ecosystems and maritime history. They had finely made scale models of sharpies and other sailboats unique to the Carolinas, skipjack dredgers and menhaden trawlers among others. There was a watercrafts center across the street from the museum which gives boat building classes .
Overall we thoroughly enjoyed our stay in Beaufort although we probably would not have stayed as long if it hadn’t been for the bad weather.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Monday, May 7, 2007 - Beaufort Docks Marina
I decided to go ahead and buy new house batteries ( six 6 volt golf cart batteries) and a new battery charger. We borrowed the marina’s courtesy car and drove to Moorehead City to go to NAPA Auto Parts, West Marine, and Food Lion. The marina asked that we not keep the car over an hour so we had to hurry. West Marine was 11 miles away.
To my relief, Napa said that they would deliver the batteries early Tuesday morning. I bought the same battery charger that I was replacing so installation was fairly easy, but it still took me over two hours. Dora washed three loads of clothes while I was working in the engine room. We finally broke down and hooked up to the cable TV since the wind was predicted to keep blowing hard for the next couple of days.
Between the new batteries and charger and $100/night marina this stop has proven costly. At least we are helping the local economy. We bought some fresh fish and fried it for dinner.
To my relief, Napa said that they would deliver the batteries early Tuesday morning. I bought the same battery charger that I was replacing so installation was fairly easy, but it still took me over two hours. Dora washed three loads of clothes while I was working in the engine room. We finally broke down and hooked up to the cable TV since the wind was predicted to keep blowing hard for the next couple of days.
Between the new batteries and charger and $100/night marina this stop has proven costly. At least we are helping the local economy. We bought some fresh fish and fried it for dinner.
Monday, May 7, 2007
Sunday, May 6, 2007 - Anchorage to Beaufort Docks Marina
It rained for an hour or so during the night. I got up early, worried that the marina may not have a slip for us even though I had made a reservation the evening before. No one was leaving the marina because of the weather and I was afraid that the dockmaster was depending on someone departing to free up a slip.
I called him at 0730 on the cell phone and to my relief he answered. But he asked me to call him back in 10 minutes so that he could check where he would put us. After a long 10 minutes I called him on the radio and he said to come on in. The wind had already started to blow from the north but the docking went fine. We were safely in the slip by 0815. Our slip was on the inside right next to the boardwalk. We could sit on the boat and watch the tourist and other boaters walk by. Nearly half of them had dogs so Sailor stayed excited.
We went for a long walk in spite of the strong winds. We showered at the marina and went out to dinner for the first time since we left Jacksonville. The food was just OK. That may be because we cook so good on the boat. The wind increased significantly into the night.
I called him at 0730 on the cell phone and to my relief he answered. But he asked me to call him back in 10 minutes so that he could check where he would put us. After a long 10 minutes I called him on the radio and he said to come on in. The wind had already started to blow from the north but the docking went fine. We were safely in the slip by 0815. Our slip was on the inside right next to the boardwalk. We could sit on the boat and watch the tourist and other boaters walk by. Nearly half of them had dogs so Sailor stayed excited.
We went for a long walk in spite of the strong winds. We showered at the marina and went out to dinner for the first time since we left Jacksonville. The food was just OK. That may be because we cook so good on the boat. The wind increased significantly into the night.
Sunday, May 6, 2007
Saturday, May 5, 2007 - At Anchor Near Beaufort, NC
Set off for town at 0800. They were having a wooden boat show and we planed to use our tickets for the bus tour of the historic district homes. After we walked through the small boat show, I went to the library and Dora and Sailor went for a walk until time for the tour. The tour bus was a 1947 British double decker with an open air upper deck. We, including Sailor, sat on the upper deck. At times we had to duck for tree limbs. The tour was well done. Everyone involved were volunteers for the Beaufort Historical Society.
We listened to the weather report when we got back to the boat. The report wasn’t good. They were predicting wind gusts as high as 40 mph for Sunday , Monday and possibly Tuesday. Later in the day they predicted maximum guests of 50 mph. By evening it was up to 60 mph.
We planed to stay at anchor so we reset our anchors for winds from the north but as the prediction worsened we decided to get a slip at Beaufort Docks Marina. We called and reserved a slip for early Sunday.
The late afternoon was very pleasant and we went for a dinghy ride to the eastern end of Taylors Creek. There were large new homes along the north shore. Carrot Island on the south side of the creek is a part of the National Estuarine Reserve Program named after Rachael Carson. She had lived and worked in Beaufort.
We listened to the weather report when we got back to the boat. The report wasn’t good. They were predicting wind gusts as high as 40 mph for Sunday , Monday and possibly Tuesday. Later in the day they predicted maximum guests of 50 mph. By evening it was up to 60 mph.
We planed to stay at anchor so we reset our anchors for winds from the north but as the prediction worsened we decided to get a slip at Beaufort Docks Marina. We called and reserved a slip for early Sunday.
The late afternoon was very pleasant and we went for a dinghy ride to the eastern end of Taylors Creek. There were large new homes along the north shore. Carrot Island on the south side of the creek is a part of the National Estuarine Reserve Program named after Rachael Carson. She had lived and worked in Beaufort.
Saturday, May 5, 2007
Friday, May 4, 2007 - Anchored Near Beaufort, NC
Went to town early to sightsee and use the library’s internet. Dora walked around while I was in the library. I sent out three entries in our blog, read my e-mail, and paid some bills online. We bought tickets for a tour on an antique double-deck British bus of the historic area of Beaufort. We made the 15 minute dinghy ride back to Seascape for lunch and returned to town about 1300 for the 1330 tour. When it was time for the tour, one of the volunteer ladies asked if we would wait until tomorrow since we were the only riders and gas is so expensive. We agreed and stopped by a small health food store for some fresh vegetables before returning to the boat. We were back on Seascape by 1430. Dora laid down for a nap, of course.
The wind shifted to the north Wednesday evening. The temperature was in the low 50’s when we awoke this morning and the wind velocity increased to 15 to 25 mph from the northeast. Even with the wind the anchorage was comfortable. The best thing about this anchorage though, is that it is a designated slow speed zone and everyone seems to comply, unlike the anchorage at Wrightsville Beach. I think that we may stay here for w few more days.
The wind shifted to the north Wednesday evening. The temperature was in the low 50’s when we awoke this morning and the wind velocity increased to 15 to 25 mph from the northeast. Even with the wind the anchorage was comfortable. The best thing about this anchorage though, is that it is a designated slow speed zone and everyone seems to comply, unlike the anchorage at Wrightsville Beach. I think that we may stay here for w few more days.
Friday, May 4, 2007
Thursday, May 3, 2007 - Anchored in Taylors Creek in Front of Beaufort, NC
We had a hardy Breakfast of eggs, biscuits, and sausage and set off to see the town. We anchored so far away from the waterfront that it took nearly 15 minutes at idle speed to reach the town’s dinghy dock. That, as luck had it, was right across the street from the Post Office where we had had our mail forwarded. Beaufort is one of the most interesting towns we have visited, so far. The North Carolina Maritime Museum has a courtesy car available for provisioning. Almost anything a cruising boat needs is within the immediate vicinity. Just beyond the waterfront are dozens if not hundreds of historic homes that date from 1732 to 1859.
We spent the afternoon relaxing and taking care of business. The mail we received included our boat insurance renewal notice from BoatUS with a bill for $3,310.00. I called the company and told them that Seascape would not be in their designated hurricane zone during the insured period and they reduced the premium by over $1,300. It pays to stay out of Florida. A mild northeaster blew in during the afternoon. Dora baked a ham for dinner.
We spent the afternoon relaxing and taking care of business. The mail we received included our boat insurance renewal notice from BoatUS with a bill for $3,310.00. I called the company and told them that Seascape would not be in their designated hurricane zone during the insured period and they reduced the premium by over $1,300. It pays to stay out of Florida. A mild northeaster blew in during the afternoon. Dora baked a ham for dinner.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007 - New River to Beaufort, NC
We set the alarm for 0600 so that it would be calm and there would be a high enough tide for us to get off the dock. That proved to be a good decision for another reason as I will explain later. It was an absolutely beautiful morning, calm, cool and clear.
There is a section of the IWW that passes through Camp Le Jeune Marine Base. They are currently conducting live fire artillery practice from ships in the Atlantic to a range on the base. Off and on for the last few days the military has closed the IWW to all boat traffic from 0800 to 1200 and from1300 to 1700. We made it to the start of the zone 20 minutes before the closure at 0800. They let us enter the zone but they stopped a smaller sailboat that was right behind us. The Navy boat told us that they had gotten clearance to let us through but we should proceed as fast as we can. Within 15 minutes after we cleared the zone they commenced firing. You could clearly hear the rumble of the guns. If they hadn’t let us through, we would have had anchor and wait four hours.
We had a little trouble figuring out the channel markers at Beaufort Inlet near Moorehead City, NC. The scale of things was just much larger than we had become accustomed. We finally took the easy way and followed another boat.
We planned to anchor in Taylor Creek which flows past Beaufort North Carolinas’s waterfront. When we arrived about 1230, there were already 25 to 30 boats anchored or moored in the relatively narrow creek that is also used by commercial fishing boats. Two anchors are necessary (Bahamian Style) because of the strong currents that change direction with each tide change and the fact that the channel is so narrow.
We tried to anchor three times in different places but each time something wasn’t right. About 1330 we finally we got them set in a place that seemed to work but we are about a mile from the waterfront. We decided not to go to town but just eat lunch and take a nap.
There is a section of the IWW that passes through Camp Le Jeune Marine Base. They are currently conducting live fire artillery practice from ships in the Atlantic to a range on the base. Off and on for the last few days the military has closed the IWW to all boat traffic from 0800 to 1200 and from1300 to 1700. We made it to the start of the zone 20 minutes before the closure at 0800. They let us enter the zone but they stopped a smaller sailboat that was right behind us. The Navy boat told us that they had gotten clearance to let us through but we should proceed as fast as we can. Within 15 minutes after we cleared the zone they commenced firing. You could clearly hear the rumble of the guns. If they hadn’t let us through, we would have had anchor and wait four hours.
We had a little trouble figuring out the channel markers at Beaufort Inlet near Moorehead City, NC. The scale of things was just much larger than we had become accustomed. We finally took the easy way and followed another boat.
We planned to anchor in Taylor Creek which flows past Beaufort North Carolinas’s waterfront. When we arrived about 1230, there were already 25 to 30 boats anchored or moored in the relatively narrow creek that is also used by commercial fishing boats. Two anchors are necessary (Bahamian Style) because of the strong currents that change direction with each tide change and the fact that the channel is so narrow.
We tried to anchor three times in different places but each time something wasn’t right. About 1330 we finally we got them set in a place that seemed to work but we are about a mile from the waterfront. We decided not to go to town but just eat lunch and take a nap.
Wrightsville Beach to New River Inlet (Snead's Ferry) NC
Went to the coffee shop at Wrightsville Beach one more time to get on the internet. Pulled anchor about 0850, which proved to be about five minutes late . We reached the Wrightsville Beach bridge at 0905. After 0700 the bridge opens every hour on the hour so we had to weight for the 1000 opening. We slowly motored south for 30 minutes and turned around and motored back.
Because there weren’t any good anchorages we stopped we stopped at 1500 at Swan Point Marina near New River Inlet, which is about 40 miles south of Morehead City, NC. The small marina basin, right off the IWW, had a narrow entrance with little room to maneuver inside. There were a mix of local recreational boats, small-scale local fishermen, and cruisers. I had to go in fast because of the strong cross current in the IWW. As we pulled along side the dock, Dora handed the dock lady a spring line but it didn’t pull us up to the dock as it should have because we were not moving, stuck in the soft mud. It took an hour for the tide to come up enough to enable us to pull Seascape along side the dock. The marina was pretty rundown but nice in it’s own way. They loaned us a car to drive seven miles to the grocery store and back. When we got back, we washed the outside of the boat, washed clothes, and collapsed.
Because there weren’t any good anchorages we stopped we stopped at 1500 at Swan Point Marina near New River Inlet, which is about 40 miles south of Morehead City, NC. The small marina basin, right off the IWW, had a narrow entrance with little room to maneuver inside. There were a mix of local recreational boats, small-scale local fishermen, and cruisers. I had to go in fast because of the strong cross current in the IWW. As we pulled along side the dock, Dora handed the dock lady a spring line but it didn’t pull us up to the dock as it should have because we were not moving, stuck in the soft mud. It took an hour for the tide to come up enough to enable us to pull Seascape along side the dock. The marina was pretty rundown but nice in it’s own way. They loaned us a car to drive seven miles to the grocery store and back. When we got back, we washed the outside of the boat, washed clothes, and collapsed.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Monday, April 30, 2007 - Departing Wrightsville Beach, NC
On the way to the shore we stopped by to meet the couple on a Krogen 39 anchored next to us. The boats name is Bodacious owned by Bill and Joan from Montana. I finally found a good internet connection at a coffee shop near the dinghy dock and was able to publish a couple of day’s logs. The anchorage was very peaceful compared to the weekend. We did some ‘house cleaning’ and just took some time to relax.
We had to run the generator for about five hours to bring the house bank up to full charge. We will probably need to replace them the first time it is convenient.
We had to run the generator for about five hours to bring the house bank up to full charge. We will probably need to replace them the first time it is convenient.
Sunday, April 29,2007 - Wrightsville Beach Anchorage
Found the inverter alarm sounding and the house batteries discharged when we awoke this morning. We may need to replace the six golf cart batteries that serve as our house bank. They are 39 months old and should still be good but they shouldn’t have discharged over night with only the refrigerator and freezer running.
Started the generator about 1100 to charge the batteries for a while. As soon as it started the belt to the raw water pump began squealing loudly as if the pump had seized. I pulled the pump and checked it’s bearings and impeller. Both looked OK but I replaced the impeller anyway. I reinstalled the pump and a new belt. One or the other seemed to solve the problem.
Dora’s nephew Nelson Jr., his wife Laura and six month old son Patrick came from Fayetteville NC to see us. We had lunch on Seascape and Dora had a great time playing with Patrick.
Barry Ainsworth saved me again. He fixed our blog site, although it seems that we have lost the pictures. I’ll try to include more the next time I can get on the internet.
Started the generator about 1100 to charge the batteries for a while. As soon as it started the belt to the raw water pump began squealing loudly as if the pump had seized. I pulled the pump and checked it’s bearings and impeller. Both looked OK but I replaced the impeller anyway. I reinstalled the pump and a new belt. One or the other seemed to solve the problem.
Dora’s nephew Nelson Jr., his wife Laura and six month old son Patrick came from Fayetteville NC to see us. We had lunch on Seascape and Dora had a great time playing with Patrick.
Barry Ainsworth saved me again. He fixed our blog site, although it seems that we have lost the pictures. I’ll try to include more the next time I can get on the internet.
Saturday, April 28, 2007 - Southport to Wrightsville Beach, NC
Up at 0630, filled water tank, rinsed Seascape, and off the dock by 0715. Favorable tides all the way to Wrightsville Beach, NC. Reached speed of 11.4 mph at Carolina Beach Inlet. Anchored in basin at Wrightsville Beach which is just two blocks from the ocean. There were three cruising boats anchored when we arrived and by sunset there were 12 or more.
We had some more trouble with the Delta anchor again. We thought we were dragging so we pulled it and changed to the Danforth on nylon rode. Let out 80 feet of line and set it hard. We had a wide swinging radius but we had enough room to swing. There was a lot of boating activity because it was Saturday. There appeared to be no speed or wake restrictions and boats were pulling skiers through the anchorage and around the anchored boats. The wakes got to be a real annoyance. The dinghy dock was continually occupied by powerboats dropping off or picking up passengers. In spite of the wakes and the boats we finally found a tenuous place to tie up. We walked a couple of blocks to a small beach grocery store and bought a few supplies we needed.
In the evening another Krogen came into the anchorage. After walking Sailor we motored over to meet the Krogen owners. The boat’s name is Sea Waltz owned by Bill and Clara Blanding
That evening when I started the generator I noticed that the aft bilge pump came on. When I checked the engine room I saw water spraying from the generator. It proved to be a loose hose clamp on the raw water hose from the heat exchanger to the manifold. When Dora started the generator it appeared to diesel and wouldn’t shut off. I moved the throttle linkage it finally died. When we tried to start it again it wouldn’t start and I heard a sizzling sound. I washed the starter soenoid and starter with freshwater and it started on the next try and ran fine.
If that wasn’t enough aggravation, I found the forward bilge half-full of water, nearly up to the thruster. I turned on the bilge pump and pumped it all out. I concluded that the additional fuel had put the bow deeper in the water and that the water was forced into the bilge pump discharge opening, through the bilge pump and into the bilge. I will install a check valve on the discharge hose as soon as I can but in the meantime, I closed the seacock. Needless to say it was a very tiring evening.
We had some more trouble with the Delta anchor again. We thought we were dragging so we pulled it and changed to the Danforth on nylon rode. Let out 80 feet of line and set it hard. We had a wide swinging radius but we had enough room to swing. There was a lot of boating activity because it was Saturday. There appeared to be no speed or wake restrictions and boats were pulling skiers through the anchorage and around the anchored boats. The wakes got to be a real annoyance. The dinghy dock was continually occupied by powerboats dropping off or picking up passengers. In spite of the wakes and the boats we finally found a tenuous place to tie up. We walked a couple of blocks to a small beach grocery store and bought a few supplies we needed.
In the evening another Krogen came into the anchorage. After walking Sailor we motored over to meet the Krogen owners. The boat’s name is Sea Waltz owned by Bill and Clara Blanding
That evening when I started the generator I noticed that the aft bilge pump came on. When I checked the engine room I saw water spraying from the generator. It proved to be a loose hose clamp on the raw water hose from the heat exchanger to the manifold. When Dora started the generator it appeared to diesel and wouldn’t shut off. I moved the throttle linkage it finally died. When we tried to start it again it wouldn’t start and I heard a sizzling sound. I washed the starter soenoid and starter with freshwater and it started on the next try and ran fine.
If that wasn’t enough aggravation, I found the forward bilge half-full of water, nearly up to the thruster. I turned on the bilge pump and pumped it all out. I concluded that the additional fuel had put the bow deeper in the water and that the water was forced into the bilge pump discharge opening, through the bilge pump and into the bilge. I will install a check valve on the discharge hose as soon as I can but in the meantime, I closed the seacock. Needless to say it was a very tiring evening.
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