tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57873395812007444982024-03-12T21:54:18.901-04:00Yacht Kerry Deare of BarnegatOld man occasionally sets sail on small boat and returns to tell about it ..."Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-12321150750410219442014-08-10T13:20:00.000-04:002014-08-10T13:46:40.182-04:00Adventures Aloft AloneSix years ago I replaced the incandescent bulbs in the combination tri-color/anchor light at the masthead with LED units. The light itself is an Aqua Signal Series 40 originally supplied with a 25W sailing light and a 10W anchor light. Each replacement (Dr LED) uses only 1W so the energy savings are substantial. However as you've guessed, the dollar "savings" were painfully negative.<br />
<br />
When testing gear this season I discovered that the tri-color was fine but the anchor light was not. This wouldn't normally be an issue since I prefer deck level anchor lights, but this sort of thing tends to annoy. I decided to make the repair.<br />
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rY5M-30s-10/U-ekI-Ezy_I/AAAAAAAABII/YihZSOqyhnk/s1600/Boat+Guests+Plus+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rY5M-30s-10/U-ekI-Ezy_I/AAAAAAAABII/YihZSOqyhnk/s1600/Boat+Guests+Plus+008.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a>Testing indicated the problem was with the bulb and after obtaining the ($60.00) replacement, I asked the yard to go up and do the job. Unfortunately the crane normally used wouldn't reach the masthead, and getting enough experienced bodies to put me up in the chair was unlikely. Other factors including impatience led me to rely once again on my MastMate climbing system, pictured in the photo at right.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EjznGvw4ylc/U-em-SlRdzI/AAAAAAAABIU/yxX6MX3eljc/s1600/IMG_0311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EjznGvw4ylc/U-em-SlRdzI/AAAAAAAABIU/yxX6MX3eljc/s1600/IMG_0311.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a>The MastMate is a first class piece of gear. I'd used it 4 times in the past 6 years: twice at the dock (photo right), once offshore en route to Bermuda, and once in harbor in Bermuda. Each instance forced me to question my own sanity. If you disagree, please refer to the photo below. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cn06JUzWWu4/U-ehYic7ELI/AAAAAAAABH8/NcBH_h3D6LY/s1600/Boat+Guests+Plus+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cn06JUzWWu4/U-ehYic7ELI/AAAAAAAABH8/NcBH_h3D6LY/s1600/Boat+Guests+Plus+018.JPG" height="400" width="300" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tfz8fXq2jcA/U-eocUg5_3I/AAAAAAAABIg/ypE-bWzcRqg/s1600/Boat+Guests+Plus+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tfz8fXq2jcA/U-eocUg5_3I/AAAAAAAABIg/ypE-bWzcRqg/s1600/Boat+Guests+Plus+016.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>It happens that the system works well. I speak from the perspective of hating anything to do with higher altitudes, but common sense and the right gear makes it possible to survive the ordeal. "Right Gear" includes a purpose built harness system available from the manufacturer (photo right). I modified this rig to add another tether that's used when passing the spreaders (green webbing), so one is never unsecured. I now feel sufficiently confident working at the top, but that's not to say I want to do it again next week.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The most pleasant part of an operation like this is stowing the tools and gear afterward. If you are in a position to be stowing the MastMate after use, it indicates you're probably still alive.</div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rY5M-30s-10/U-ekI-Ezy_I/AAAAAAAABII/YihZSOqyhnk/s1600/Boat+Guests+Plus+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-cn06JUzWWu4%2FU-ehYic7ELI%2FAAAAAAAABH8%2FNcBH_h3D6LY%2Fs1600%2FBoat%2BGuests%2BPlus%2B018.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cn06JUzWWu4/U-ehYic7ELI/AAAAAAAABH8/NcBH_h3D6LY/s1600/Boat+Guests+Plus+018.JPG" -->"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-20935180573438437282014-07-19T12:25:00.003-04:002014-07-19T12:25:56.155-04:00Main Sheet Block Repair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pj-seXs51VY/U8qU8bEmUgI/AAAAAAAABGs/NArdUammjx0/s1600/Boatyard+Stuff+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pj-seXs51VY/U8qU8bEmUgI/AAAAAAAABGs/NArdUammjx0/s1600/Boatyard+Stuff+004.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>Several years ago the Shaffer lower double block for the main sheet parted from the traveler slide during a short New England cruise. I was able to limp by for quite a while until the system again failed in Newfoundland in 2010. I was able to jury rig a repair with the help of a local fisherman, but the job needed to be addressed properly. The slide is shown in the photo. This article shows the repair.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HrUDhcgFCgk/U8qV_lBUPHI/AAAAAAAABG0/SrbbxpQFIFE/s1600/Boatyard+Stuff+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HrUDhcgFCgk/U8qV_lBUPHI/AAAAAAAABG0/SrbbxpQFIFE/s1600/Boatyard+Stuff+008.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GbwQu9YrC2Q/U8qWY3uvxSI/AAAAAAAABG8/5egJ3RyCOes/s1600/Boatyard+Stuff+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GbwQu9YrC2Q/U8qWY3uvxSI/AAAAAAAABG8/5egJ3RyCOes/s1600/Boatyard+Stuff+015.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>Note that the slide has two welded posts that secure the traveler control blocks. I decided to fabricate (actually <i>have </i>fabricated) the new mount so that it fit over these two posts. First I cleaned up the teak on which the traveler track is mounted (photo).<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2WpQRWLlJwg/U8qa-VRSz9I/AAAAAAAABHQ/kDgGnw9RaQ4/s1600/Boatyard+Stuff+040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2WpQRWLlJwg/U8qa-VRSz9I/AAAAAAAABHQ/kDgGnw9RaQ4/s1600/Boatyard+Stuff+040.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AUj4AJJFel8/U8qa1vPRO1I/AAAAAAAABHI/hobG1MaSHng/s1600/Boatyard+Stuff+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AUj4AJJFel8/U8qa1vPRO1I/AAAAAAAABHI/hobG1MaSHng/s1600/Boatyard+Stuff+029.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
Next the shop cut and welded a piece of heavy stainless bar with part of a pin shackle. I wired the spring mount in a compressed position while the block itself was secured to the base by welding. The preliminary result is shown at left, and the final result at right.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-46021753153935940802014-06-29T16:31:00.002-04:002014-07-01T06:54:35.408-04:00Anchor Platform RepairThe CD 28 vintage 1981 employed an ash plank at the bow to support the anchor, and also to move the sail plan forward for balance. The headstay was moved forward a bit and supported by a bobstay in later models. Later versions also replaced the ash with teak.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately ash is not well behaved when unprotected, unvarnished or (to put it mildly) actually used. The result of such exposure is shown in the photo. Yuck.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MJmf-LGNoo0/U7B1yDu948I/AAAAAAAABFg/vuUqAnsbumY/s1600/sprit_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MJmf-LGNoo0/U7B1yDu948I/AAAAAAAABFg/vuUqAnsbumY/s1600/sprit_1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This means that every so often (a.k.a. too often) folks like me take the wood down to bare wood and start over. Here's what this process look like after perhaps 3 or 4 delightful hours on one's knees.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mhyN18YIrEg/U7B2o57HfpI/AAAAAAAABFo/yK0yEhZaQg4/s1600/sprit_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mhyN18YIrEg/U7B2o57HfpI/AAAAAAAABFo/yK0yEhZaQg4/s1600/sprit_2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The next step is to recoat with varnish. In our case we went with 4 coats of (cheap) varnish, followed by machine sanding. This provides a base to allow the final varnish coats. I decided on 3 additional coats (for a total of 7), and found the result more utilitarian that glamorous. Works for me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6V56dm8mGcQ/U7B3l76mI4I/AAAAAAAABF0/UKS_CFjN6Fg/s1600/sprit_3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6V56dm8mGcQ/U7B3l76mI4I/AAAAAAAABF0/UKS_CFjN6Fg/s1600/sprit_3.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And finally the result:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AZswq5fbyh8/U7KSd44nm3I/AAAAAAAABGI/Ip9L0dehBhE/s1600/Diesel+-+Docklines+-+Sprit+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AZswq5fbyh8/U7KSd44nm3I/AAAAAAAABGI/Ip9L0dehBhE/s1600/Diesel+-+Docklines+-+Sprit+031.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-64823909389966631972014-06-24T17:17:00.001-04:002014-07-01T06:53:18.919-04:00We're Back, Once Again ... We ThinkIt's been a while but this time we intend to follow through. Yacht "Kerry Deare" went into the water on 01 June 2014, and the saga begins again. We are presently working to restore (if that's the word) this yacht to operational condition. That should be rather simple, because all that is necessary is to overcome a few seasons of layup (and all that entails).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kZyvz8BbemU/U6nqGVVU_ZI/AAAAAAAABFI/Plk7j2lz4II/s1600/Boat+Plus+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kZyvz8BbemU/U6nqGVVU_ZI/AAAAAAAABFI/Plk7j2lz4II/s1600/Boat+Plus+021.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So far the wood trim on deck has been under attack, the cabin sole has been brought up to snuff, and the diesel cooling system has been checked and repaired. More to follow.<br />
<br />
<br />"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-68754013634554533212013-10-16T15:35:00.000-04:002013-10-16T16:15:40.187-04:00The Philadelphia ZooWell, Summer 2013 wasn't <em>exactly</em> about sailing. However it <em>was</em> a little about New England (by car), a lot about family, and little more about ... just about everything. And now for something completely different.<br />
<br />
Yes, I know you thought this post was about the oldest zoo in the United States, the Philadelphia Zoo. Well, I tricked you, and to make up for that here are the mandatory pics. Then we'll get down to business.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KfD1HddKzNU/Ul7sG9Z2n8I/AAAAAAAAA6s/MkLi6OQosIk/s1600/IMG_5214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KfD1HddKzNU/Ul7sG9Z2n8I/AAAAAAAAA6s/MkLi6OQosIk/s320/IMG_5214.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nG2is9J-5Fs/Ul7sJegRLKI/AAAAAAAAA60/oLNTD1YLDhk/s1600/IMG_5216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nG2is9J-5Fs/Ul7sJegRLKI/AAAAAAAAA60/oLNTD1YLDhk/s320/IMG_5216.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
OK, now for the real stuff. My informed readers know that the Zoo is a few blocks from "The Neighborhood." Naturally we went there first, heading north on Girard, making a left at 36th Street one block over to Cambridge, and then up Cambridge toward 40th.<br />
<br />
The view up Cambridge from below 39th:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k0G568j6uUQ/Ul7u3YGKppI/AAAAAAAAA7A/VqGuhfGwwWo/s1600/Zoo_Oct13+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k0G568j6uUQ/Ul7u3YGKppI/AAAAAAAAA7A/VqGuhfGwwWo/s320/Zoo_Oct13+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Union Street between Cambridge and Poplar, Jim's old house toward the left end of the row:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DBlP7ffF5Zc/Ul7voQnzcTI/AAAAAAAAA7I/lBOBSpMswUk/s1600/Zoo_Oct13+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DBlP7ffF5Zc/Ul7voQnzcTI/AAAAAAAAA7I/lBOBSpMswUk/s320/Zoo_Oct13+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
40th and Cambridge, looking up Cambridge. No more "Gitaveigh":<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-clGQEx8CYzk/Ul7v-czEgPI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/ptUaORAMViw/s1600/Zoo_Oct13+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-clGQEx8CYzk/Ul7v-czEgPI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/ptUaORAMViw/s320/Zoo_Oct13+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
What's left of 40th between Cambridge and Poplar (no more King Cole Bar):<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LLdiDMErMKg/Ul7wV2hwxVI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/GBA233r1jdA/s1600/Zoo_Oct13+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LLdiDMErMKg/Ul7wV2hwxVI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/GBA233r1jdA/s320/Zoo_Oct13+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>THE STORE</strong>:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6gRVkxr1dqQ/Ul7w4jMD2qI/AAAAAAAAA7g/YU5BQcW5uug/s1600/Zoo_Oct13+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6gRVkxr1dqQ/Ul7w4jMD2qI/AAAAAAAAA7g/YU5BQcW5uug/s320/Zoo_Oct13+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A "new" resident (4036 behind):</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NeoDbIx4waQ/Ul7xKo-3AvI/AAAAAAAAA7o/oxJEbbPG7lY/s1600/Zoo_Oct13+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NeoDbIx4waQ/Ul7xKo-3AvI/AAAAAAAAA7o/oxJEbbPG7lY/s320/Zoo_Oct13+022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View toward 41st Street:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VSbiWM7sGJo/Ul7xntACYLI/AAAAAAAAA7w/UwJoQmjV7yY/s1600/Zoo_Oct13+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VSbiWM7sGJo/Ul7xntACYLI/AAAAAAAAA7w/UwJoQmjV7yY/s320/Zoo_Oct13+024.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-65431745465454863572012-11-06T08:29:00.000-05:002012-11-06T08:34:18.300-05:00Sandy's Wake A glimpse at the carnage left by Storm Sandy along the Toms River. This is a local marina called Shore Point.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A14ndm4UTjQ/UJkQLqlCq2I/AAAAAAAAAzA/8L8aL7tJ7eA/s1600/Storm_Sandy_I+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A14ndm4UTjQ/UJkQLqlCq2I/AAAAAAAAAzA/8L8aL7tJ7eA/s1600/Storm_Sandy_I+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A14ndm4UTjQ/UJkQLqlCq2I/AAAAAAAAAzA/8L8aL7tJ7eA/s400/Storm_Sandy_I+008.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OOkv0g5Ys60/UJkQCOWAzrI/AAAAAAAAAy4/mMzbCijPimI/s1600/Storm_Sandy_I+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OOkv0g5Ys60/UJkQCOWAzrI/AAAAAAAAAy4/mMzbCijPimI/s400/Storm_Sandy_I+003.JPG" width="400" /><br />
</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XWFei7DE6Lw/UJkQPInEu7I/AAAAAAAAAzI/LeXoLi5VGts/s1600/Storm_Sandy_I+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XWFei7DE6Lw/UJkQPInEu7I/AAAAAAAAAzI/LeXoLi5VGts/s1600/Storm_Sandy_I+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XWFei7DE6Lw/UJkQPInEu7I/AAAAAAAAAzI/LeXoLi5VGts/s400/Storm_Sandy_I+019.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dvIyd6pt2Nw/UJkQSCd-S-I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/LHFvJxUDr_A/s1600/Storm_Sandy_I+023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dvIyd6pt2Nw/UJkQSCd-S-I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/LHFvJxUDr_A/s400/Storm_Sandy_I+023.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-17541412722988160682012-11-04T13:23:00.000-05:002012-11-05T16:51:02.442-05:00Post Sandy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Im5-MkYCBr4/UJgznmVEv_I/AAAAAAAAAyo/JT3b8w1CoB0/s1600/Storm_Sandy_I+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Im5-MkYCBr4/UJgznmVEv_I/AAAAAAAAAyo/JT3b8w1CoB0/s200/Storm_Sandy_I+027.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
We hauled a few days before the storm's arrival. In the photo at left you can see what a well hidden small sailing boat hiding along the NJ coast looks like. The sailboat was lying on Toms River directly west of Seaside Heights NJ, and there was no question that she had to get on the hard (and <em>fast</em>). She did so thanks to Bill and the crew at deRouville's Boat Shoppe. In fact she rode out the event without consequence. Meanwhile Sandy has picked her victims in a decidedly opportunistic fashion. I will provide details and images when time allows."Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-10506957827637451992012-06-29T17:12:00.002-04:002012-06-29T17:12:57.293-04:00We're Back!It happens that we took a fiairly long holiday from Boat Stuff, to attend to Real Life Stuff. Real Life Stuff refers to family stuff, and that means things that really count (i.e., non-boat things). Things are now suffiiciently in hand to allow us to spend a bit of time on the yacht. Speaking of which, the boat was splashed in mid-June 2012, she did not sink, and we will shortly be reporting on things of significance."Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-17465738554248167452010-12-01T09:27:00.039-05:002010-12-06T08:46:09.635-05:00Sail Care Simplified<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkFMO4ybbI/AAAAAAAAAxY/sNGiF7E25vo/s1600/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B049.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546470123796327858" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkFMO4ybbI/AAAAAAAAAxY/sNGiF7E25vo/s200/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B049.jpg" border="0" /></a>I have several friends who make a living building and repairing sails and they're not going to like what I say here, so let's just lay it on the table. Unless your sails are heavily damaged or need adjustments you simply cannot do by hand at home, there is <em>absolutely no need</em> to spend money sending sails to the sail loft annually. There, I've said it, and I'm stickin' to it. Now let's review the three standard methods that experienced sailors use to <em><strong>ruin</strong></em> a perfectly good sail, new or otherwise. Some of these tricks can accomplish the objective in a single summer sailing season. Others require more time, patience, and effort.<br /><br />First, make sure you do everything in your power to <em>guarantee chafe</em>. Here are just a few suggestions. I know they work because I've tested them many times on my own boat.<br /><ul><li><em>Never</em> tape the rig. </li><li>Have the main ride up and down on the standing rig as long as possible when sailing downwind. </li><li>Flog the jib for a <em>minimum</em> of 35 seconds during each tack (45 seconds in winds over 20 knots). </li><li>When handing the jib, make sure it drags in the water and removes <em>all </em>visible barnacles.</li><li>Snag the jib on the anchor and <em>maintain tension</em> indefinitely. </li><li>Hoist the main off wind and insure the battens are caught in the standing rig, then continue to hoist. </li><li>Always fold sails on a <em>concrete</em> driveway (blacktop is a reasonable second choice). </li><li>Avoid folding sails. Instead crumble and stuff them into the <em>smallest</em> sail bags you can find. </li><li>When necessary, walk on the sails (street shoes <em>only</em>). </li></ul><p>If you do the exact <em>opposite</em> of everything listed above you will be moving in the right direction.</p><p>Second, discard your sail covers immediately. You should <em>never</em> cover or bag sails. Exposing them to the sun for extended periods, particularly during summer, allows UV radiation to soften the material, making it much easier to handle. Unfortunately UV damage cannot be fully accomplished in a single sailing season, but you <em>can</em> get a good start. Good results take dedication but once you succeed, you'll be amazed at how easy sail handling becomes. One downside is that you may have to repeat UV degradation each time you buy new sails (and this will be often). But when you think back on the aggravation of furling stiff new sails and covering them with tight fitting covers, you'll be glad you took time to do the job right.<br /><br />If you do the exact <em>opposite</em> of everything listed above you will be moving in the right direction.</p><p>Third, <em>never</em> wash your sails. To wash sails correctly they must actually be removed from the boat, and there are many better things to do during football season. Besides, leaving your sails bent on (and uncovered) during the winter gives your boat a ready-to-go appearance that will be the envy of your friends at the yard.</p><p>If you do the exact <em>opposite</em> of everything listed above you will be moving in the right direction.</p><p>Now that the fun's over let's get to the point of this diatribe: washing your sails. Avoiding chafe and preventing UV degradation are the basics that most folks have at least heard about, but salt in sails is the "silent killer." If you don't believe me ask your sailmaker the next time you're signing the check for that new sail. Dry salt crystals in sail fabric behave like a million sharp tiny knives, cutting into the material every time the sail moves. Eventually you can just push your finger right through the material, and while much of this is due to UV radiation, salt is a <em>major</em> factor. It's also something one can address, unlike pervasive UV exposure. Some sailors never wash their sails for logistical reasons, and some call in the sailmaker and just sign the check. But if you have (or can borrow) space to wash the sails annually, you will extend their life immeasurably. Yes, it's cold in November up north, and yes, it takes a little time to set up and clean up, but you will not regret the effort.</p><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkOhr4bnbI/AAAAAAAAAxg/aBoRk_hjAAo/s1600/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B062.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546480387961363890" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkOhr4bnbI/AAAAAAAAAxg/aBoRk_hjAAo/s200/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B062.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkQyZ9AemI/AAAAAAAAAxo/ioL4X2Qt4-s/s1600/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B045.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546482874229750370" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkQyZ9AemI/AAAAAAAAAxo/ioL4X2Qt4-s/s200/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B045.jpg" border="0" /></a>Basic sail care tools include simple cleaning supplies (right) and sufficient space to wash, rinse, and hang the sail. I like to wash sails on the lawn because this surface will not damage stitching or the material itself. I can then move the sail to the "dryer" without causing additional wear and tear. Be very careful when selecting cleaners. For most purposes regular dish washing detergent is sufficient and will not damage the material. In fact the <em>real</em> cleaning agent in this process is water itself: only water will dissolve the salt and rinse it away. You will also need a large clean brush, and I have found that a standard "push broom" is ideal. Just make sure it's dedicated to sail cleaning only, and not to sweeping the floor of your oil-stained garage.</p><p>Now lay out the sail flat on the lawn (above left) and rinse with water. After rinsing the sail for upwards of 55 minutes, do it again for another 55 minutes. Well OK, maybe that's a bit much, but you get the idea. Then actually <em>wash</em> the sail by filling the bucket with soapy water and brushing back and forth with the big broom. You really cannot overdo this, but eventually you'll get bored and cold and want to move on so turn the sail over and repeat the entire rinse and wash process from soaking to brushing. By the way, I never bother with stains on the sails unless there is a very good reason to remove them (oil, adhesives, etc.). Stains are not "slow" underway, and many times the cure is worse than the disease. I have some stains on my sails that go back decades and I cherish them, largely because I cherish the memories of where I got them.</p><p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkUCA4yhYI/AAAAAAAAAxw/kQUk68ojx08/s1600/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B071.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546486440913962370" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkUCA4yhYI/AAAAAAAAAxw/kQUk68ojx08/s200/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B071.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkUKx9RKbI/AAAAAAAAAx4/dn5Ou_Z5OVo/s1600/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B081.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546486591525038514" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkUKx9RKbI/AAAAAAAAAx4/dn5Ou_Z5OVo/s200/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B081.jpg" border="0" /></a>Now that the sail has been thoroughly rinsed and brushed with soapy water, it's time to hang the sail for drying. The best method for drying sails is sailing on them in a gentle northwest breeze, but we cannot wait until next spring to do this so we resort to hanging them. I can usually find three strategic spots for rigging a snatch block (left) and using the sheets themselves to hoist the sail (right). It helps to have just the right amount of breeze if you can arrange it, but realistically this is late fall and we make do. The really important task once the sail is hanging and off the lawn is to continue rinsing with fresh water. Rinse both sides and continue rinsing. This gets the remaining soapy water and salt out of the fabric and really contributes to the life of the sail. We are getting close to the end of the road here, so bear with me.</p><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkWB-8ZVTI/AAAAAAAAAyA/0YOeFBXDXx4/s1600/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B096.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546488639415473458" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkWB-8ZVTI/AAAAAAAAAyA/0YOeFBXDXx4/s200/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B096.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkWJa5LwQI/AAAAAAAAAyI/2P5zxkmpnnY/s1600/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B103.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546488767177277698" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPkWJa5LwQI/AAAAAAAAAyI/2P5zxkmpnnY/s200/2010_11_28_Sail_Care%2B103.jpg" border="0" /></a>After the sail has been hanging for 3 or 4 hours (and with any luck not flogging itself to death in the wind), I usually find that the lawn under the sail is itself sufficiently dry to allow dropping the sail and not getting it too wet. I don't worry too much about the errant strand of grass or weed getting tangled up in the sail, because it will disappear to leeward the first time the sail is used. I then take the sail inside and lay it out loosely in the basement for a few days to let it really dry. Next my wife and I fold the sail carefully (above left) while I shout incomprehensible commands and gesture erratically at her. She seems to really enjoy this, and I get that last whiff of the pleasures of command just at the end of the season. Finally I bag the sail and hang it from a hook in the basement where it's dry and cool all winter (above right). Here it rests until called into action in the spring.</p><p>This has been a long-winded description and if you're still awake you may want to know that I have several sails that are over 30 years old and still serviceable. I attribute their long life to the sail care described above.</p>"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-1895692474868070492010-11-20T15:14:00.038-05:002010-12-03T13:13:48.625-05:00... A Long Winter's Nap ...<em></em><br /><em><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOgtnqQ_O4I/AAAAAAAAAv4/fn_lQJkWLnA/s1600/2010_11_12_Various%2B039.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541729500863085442" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOgtnqQ_O4I/AAAAAAAAAv4/fn_lQJkWLnA/s200/2010_11_12_Various%2B039.jpg" border="0" /></a>Kerry Deare</em> spends the winter ashore in New Jersey, and that usually means a few months of rough weather and snow. Over the years we have stored the boat both afloat and on land. In the past when storing on land we usually unstepped the mast each season and then by using the mast as a ridge pole and plastic tubing (HDPE irrigation pipe) for support, we covered the boat with a standard canvas tarp. The pros and cons about storing on land with mast stepped could fill many pages and I won't cover that subject. However in recent years with radar and other electronic gear now mounted on the backstay, unstepping the mast in fall and then stepping the mast and rewiring all the electronics in spring is impractical for me. Thus for the last several years we wintered the boat with the mast stepped. Unfortunately devising a good and simple protective cover with this arrangement evolves into a small but challenging engineering project. There have been several wrong turns along the way, but each winter we get closer to where we'd like to be.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOguMoC8woI/AAAAAAAAAwA/NDTkP7zXfFM/s1600/2010_11_12_Various%2B077.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541730135922492034" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOguMoC8woI/AAAAAAAAAwA/NDTkP7zXfFM/s200/2010_11_12_Various%2B077.jpg" border="0" /></a>The current frame system is based on the boat's small spars and standard flexible HDPE irrigation pipe (photo above). It seems to work well without too much fuss and expense, and it's easily set up and dismantled each year. We use the spinnaker pole as a "ridge" forward of the mast, and the adjustable whisker pole abaft the mast. We then fit the HDPE irrigation pipe at 6 locations using the lifeline stanchions and other parts of the deck to secure each piece loop. When finished, the frame system resembles a Conestoga wagon and usually generates a range of comments form the pros at the boatyard. Yet in the final tally it's both inexpensive and surprisingly sturdy. At our yard we're able to do most of the winterization while afloat, and we usually set up the frame while the boat is in the water to avoid climbing up and down the ladder. Once the boat is hauled and cleaned (photo right), we can fit the cover without much fuss.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOgwvt1nrrI/AAAAAAAAAwI/ebq4ldYMQ8E/s1600/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B035.jpg"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPFmWtiocjI/AAAAAAAAAxI/RtDl8Eb8auM/s1600/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B024.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544325156637798962" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPFmWtiocjI/AAAAAAAAAxI/RtDl8Eb8auM/s200/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B024.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPFmkH1j6AI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/sQDIkwA3lts/s1600/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B042.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544325387034814466" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPFmkH1j6AI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/sQDIkwA3lts/s200/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B042.jpg" border="0" /></a>For the first several winters using the current frame system we tried to fit standard rectangular plastic tarps around the standing rigging, but after several attempts we concluded that "simple" wasn't necessarily "better" when it comes to boat covers. Finally last winter we made a first pass at tailoring the standard blue plastic tarps to fit around the standing rigging more effectively. After much measuring, guessing, inhaling contact cement fumes, swearing, and zipping through a lifetime supply of expensive and exotic tapes, we obtained a reasonable first approximation that got us through the cold season. Prior to fitting the tailored cover once again this year, we made a few changes based on last year's results to get a better fit. The results are shown in the photos at left and at right above. This project, like most, is ongoing and no doubt there will be changes next time. It appears that building a winter cover follows the usual pattern observed on other boat projects: the third time is the trick.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOg5KNVSLGI/AAAAAAAAAw4/ue2EkRfBY50/s1600/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B025.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541742189019802722" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOg5KNVSLGI/AAAAAAAAAw4/ue2EkRfBY50/s200/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B025.jpg" border="0" /></a>There are several obvious places where a little tailoring helps to make a better job. Around the port and starboard shrouds it is usually difficult to both keep the weather out, and get a decent fit. Therefore we added heavily reinforced cuts port and starboard that can be laced around the shrouds (photo at left). The forward cover containing these slits is also cut to fit around the mast as well as around the headstay, and then secured by lacing. The reason for lacing instead of taping is that if the tape is sufficiently good to last during the winter, there is no simple method to remove the tape and at the same time not destroy the cover material itself. In each instance where cutting the tarp was required, we reinforced the area in question with several layers of blue tarp material and used a standard grommet tool to fit the lacing. The after cover is cut to fit around the backstay and the radar mount in a similar fashion.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOgy189psPI/AAAAAAAAAwg/zuxPm2PEs00/s1600/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B015.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541735243958563058" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOgy189psPI/AAAAAAAAAwg/zuxPm2PEs00/s200/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B015.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOgykQB2QNI/AAAAAAAAAwY/nQUkNHvadLQ/s1600/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B027.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541734939838791890" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TOgykQB2QNI/AAAAAAAAAwY/nQUkNHvadLQ/s200/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B027.jpg" border="0" /></a>To reduce wear and tear on the cover during the winter, we fitted a roll-up door on the port side. The door allows easy access for winter work without the need to dismantle a part of the cover itself. Last fall prior to fitting the cover for the first time, we carefully measured for the door. While actually building the cover and fitting the door at home, we decided it just didn't look right and made some changes "on the fly." Of course it happened that the original measurements were indeed correct and my "eyeball" modifications were not. Prior to installing the cover again this winter we "uncorrected" to get back to where we should have been in the first place. The benefit is that it's much easier to get the old man's bones up the ladder and onto the boat now.<br /><br />The nice part about the present system is that going down to the boatyard for a few hours work is really much less bother. The side door makes going on board less complex, and the dark color of the cover itself provides something akin to a "greenhouse" effect, making the area under the cover quite comfortable once the sun has been up for a few hours. The frame ridge poles and tubing are sufficiently high so that there's plenty of room to work on deck without gymnastics during the winter.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544309286631517986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TPFX69KSLyI/AAAAAAAAAxA/hf6hAQYGxz8/s400/2010_11_20_Boat_Cover%2B005.jpg" border="0" />"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-16496185976287449902010-09-13T15:41:00.056-04:002010-09-20T06:14:36.627-04:00Home Stretch: 10 - 13 Sep - Long Island Sound Is ... Long<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJZUWfV13NI/AAAAAAAAAuU/30DZL-SNyQo/s1600/ChartFishersIsSound1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518691138736086226" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 128px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJZUWfV13NI/AAAAAAAAAuU/30DZL-SNyQo/s200/ChartFishersIsSound1.jpg" border="0" /></a>I reluctantly slipped the lines at Mystic Seaport Museum Friday morning, 10 September, and caught the ebb down the Mystic River to Long Island Sound. <em>Nina</em> elected to savor the Seaport for a few more days but <em>we </em>wanted to make miles west and enjoyed a fair tide through western Fishers Island Sound (chart right) in bright sunshine and perfect visibility. An unwelcome chop at the mouth of the Thames River reminded me that the journey was not over yet and the wind, predicted to be 5 to 10 NW, held steady at about 15 NW and then began to creep upward.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJZQAViCWiI/AAAAAAAAAuE/Vr4vzmV-XNs/s1600/CON109.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518686360099248674" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 160px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJZQAViCWiI/AAAAAAAAAuE/Vr4vzmV-XNs/s200/CON109.jpg" border="0" /></a>I'd intended to make the Thimble Islands this day but by 1230, still some 14 NM short of the goal and with the wind gusting NW at 25, I'd had enough. I altered course to the NW aiming for Duck Island Roads (chart at left). In this wind the anchorage near the right-angled jetties would not be safe (if it ever is), but I hoped to find shelter under the lee of the mainland in the northwest part of the small bay just east of Kelsey Point. I dropped the anchor at 1245 (in N41-16-077/W72-29-219) as the clear and gusty NW wind continued at about 25 knots. The holding was excellent but a roll was making its way around the Kelsey Breakwater and the anchorage, although snug under the circumstances, was not comfortable.<br /><br />About 2 hours later it seemed the wind had gone off a bit so I decided to try once again for the Thimbles and flat water. This time I was beaten back before even making it around the breakwater. However I was able to find smoother water about 0.9 NM from my original spot in N41-15-468/W72-30-114 (the reason I've included coordinates is to demonstrate the effects that even a slight change in position can have on comfort). Here the anchorage was an order of magnitude better and I decided to spend the rest of the day right where I was. The wind by this time had convinced many other boats to call it a day and the bay was almost getting crowded. For reasons I never did discover, several boats anchored in the "vee" created by the Duck Island Roads breakwaters despite the fact that they were facing into a strong NW breeze with the breakwaters forming a dangerous lee shore close behind. This made no sense to me and still doesn't but as they say, "different ships, different long splices."<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJZQWV1M_VI/AAAAAAAAAuM/R1uO-iQ1Ks4/s1600/WestportCockenoeIslandaerial.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518686738136759634" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 115px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJZQWV1M_VI/AAAAAAAAAuM/R1uO-iQ1Ks4/s200/WestportCockenoeIslandaerial.jpg" border="0" /></a>We got underway at 0550 the next morning, Saturday the 11th of September. The dawn broke cool and clear with NW winds at 8 to 10 knots and smooth seas. The goal this time was Cockenoe Harbor in the Norwalk Islands off the Connecticut south shore (photo right). I'd anchored there in 1996 in a friend's Cal 2-46 and I recalled a fairly comfortable spot with a great view, plenty of privacy, but a mildly tricky entrance into the harbor among rocks and shoals. The ride itself was somewhat bumpy across the entrance to New Haven Harbor but it settled down off Bridgeport and since it was Saturday the local "fleet" was tuning up for the races. The contrast of sailors playing in the sun and the fact that this was the 9th anniversary of Nine/Eleven was not lost on me. We anchored in Cockenoe Harbor just before 1400 and despite the SE breeze that stayed with us during the night and the mild roll it generated, the anchorage was satisfactory. I didn't say "comfortable," but "satisfactory" will do in a pinch.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJZstfgEH8I/AAAAAAAAAuc/7Ye1HggPJN0/s1600/Aerial_View_of_the_Throgs_Neck_Bridge.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518717922195021762" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 110px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJZstfgEH8I/AAAAAAAAAuc/7Ye1HggPJN0/s200/Aerial_View_of_the_Throgs_Neck_Bridge.jpg" border="0" /></a>The next day, Sunday, was a big one when it came to making miles. The SE breeze of the previous evening had filled in during the night and by dawn we were staring into 20 to 25 SE in the anchorage with fairly large rollers making across the Long Island Sound. We hauled anchor at 0635 and made our way out into the Sound, soon settling on a course of 250 M for the Throggs Neck (photo left). This put the breeze on the port quarter and with 1.5 to 2 knots of fair tide, the 110% Genoa set, and the diesel just kicking over, we were moving well. I'd planned to stop at Port Washington until I noticed that the current at Hell Gate went favorable at 1330. My calculations indicated we would reach the Throggs Neck at 1200 or so, and that meant that if we kept going we would make the Gate just about when the tide went favorable. That's exactly what happened.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJaGTxFwAwI/AAAAAAAAAuk/Kif9QVtaPOM/s1600/Ad%2520photo%25203.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518746067542213378" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJaGTxFwAwI/AAAAAAAAAuk/Kif9QVtaPOM/s200/Ad%2520photo%25203.jpg" border="0" /></a>A mile or so past the Throggs Neck Bridge I noticed a smart looking large cutter coming up on us and doing so in a determined fashion. As she approached I recognized the yacht <em>Brendan's Isle</em> (photo right) owned by Mike and Kay Arms (<a href="http://www.myronarms.com/" target="blank">http://www.myronarms.com/</a>), old friends from the Sassafras River on Chesapeake Bay. I hadn't seen Mike in many years and thought it rather a nice surprise that we were both transiting the East River at the same time. Mike and Kay were returning from a summer of cruising the Maine coast. What made the coincidence noteworthy was that Mike is a well known author who has written extensively about the areas I had been exploring all summer, particularly Newfoundland. We were able to catch up a bit on comings and goings of mutual old friends until he continued on out of sight down the East River.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJabiGKl0yI/AAAAAAAAAus/qtiULWEENFk/s1600/bateauxhaze-40.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518769403462013730" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJabiGKl0yI/AAAAAAAAAus/qtiULWEENFk/s200/bateauxhaze-40.jpg" border="0" /></a>Soon we too were passing through Hell Gate and down the East River. As we ran between the Battery and Governor's Island, a combination of haze, light rain, and fog obscured the Statue of Liberty and made for a dicey crossing of the Upper Bay amid ferry and commercial traffic, but by 1500 we'd anchored safely behind the Statue just west of Liberty Island. As darkness fell visibility improved and we were treated to a magnificent view of the Statue and Lower Manhattan. The anchorage itself was surprisingly flat and quiet, and we enjoyed a peaceful Sunday evening rest in preparation for an early start down the New Jersey Coast.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJcsMh9qwDI/AAAAAAAAAu0/3JqIEuCk6Ew/s1600/800px-800px-Verrazano-Narrows_Bridge_at_night.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518928462152908850" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJcsMh9qwDI/AAAAAAAAAu0/3JqIEuCk6Ew/s200/800px-800px-Verrazano-Narrows_Bridge_at_night.jpg" border="0" /></a>By 0430 Monday morning we were underway down harbor toward the Verrazano Narrows Bridge (photo right). The night was clear, visibility was excellent, and we enjoyed a huge fair tide down bay. Yet paradoxically there was just too much to see. The AIS was showing well over 100 targets of all shapes and sizes, and the direct path to the Narrows was filled with anchored commercial vessels, moving ferry boats, tugs with and without barges, and difficult-to-see aids to navigation. The radar also showed so many targets that it was difficult if not impossible to process all the information. Once clear of the Liberty Island entrance channel I immediately turned left and headed for the Brooklyn shore and the relative safety of Buttermilk Channel. I continued down harbor on the Brooklyn side and there encountered "only" four commercial vessels until finally passing under the Verrazano Bridge into the Lower Bay. From there it was only a matter of following the buoys and waiting for the relative security of the sunrise and the visibility that would come with it. My advice to all is that if possible, do <em>not</em> pass through the main channel in New York Harbor in darkness, regardless of your experience level or equipment.<br /><br />The rest of the day passed uneventfully. We enjoyed a fair tide all the way down the New Jersey coast and entered Manasquan Inlet at 1100, passed through a turbulent Point Pleasant Canal with a fair tide shortly thereafter, and tied up in our old boat yard at 1400. The Newfoundland adventure had exceeded my expectations, but I was not at all unhappy to finally step ashore."Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-47854886362981147772010-09-08T12:20:00.029-04:002010-09-20T06:11:29.242-04:00Mystical Coincidence: 06 - 08 Sep - Close Encounters of the Seafaring Kind<div><em><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIkMqbf80OI/AAAAAAAAAsI/xyaqaP0JW_E/s1600/2010_09_06_Nina+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514953141767688418" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIkMqbf80OI/AAAAAAAAAsI/xyaqaP0JW_E/s200/2010_09_06_Nina+001.jpg" border="0" /></a>Arion</em> and <em>Kerry Deare</em> finally got underway Monday morning, 06 September, from New Bedford after the remnants of Hurricane Earl were well to the east. We started early and decided to take advantage of conditions and aim for Stonington CT, some 58 NM west and the same number of miles closer to home. The ride was uneventful as we motored along, passing successively the Sakonnet River, Newport RI, and Point Judith Harbor of Refuge. Then suddenly ahead I spied a familiar shape on the horizon, a vessel unlikely to be mistaken for any other. It was the scow schooner <em>Nina</em> (photo left) out of Baltimore sailing west just off the Rhode Island shore, with Captain Dayton and First Mate Ingrid on board. Nina was designed by Joel White and built in 1985 in Brooklin ME, but her chronological age is no measure of how well she reflects ageless seafaring traditions. She is sailed using methods and procedures that would pass muster aboard any 19th century coastal vessel.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIkPgeCL4cI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/-Ao3iUJuEQU/s1600/2010_09_06_Nina+014.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514956269184344514" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIkPgeCL4cI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/-Ao3iUJuEQU/s200/2010_09_06_Nina+014.jpg" border="0" /></a>I have known both Ingrid and Dayton (photo right) for several years and <em>Nina</em> has spent a considerable amount of time in the same New Jersey boatyard where <em>Kerry Deare</em> winters, so the coincidence of unexpectedly encountering her at sea is noteworthy. At the same time the encounter serves to remind me that coincidences like this become commonplace after one has spent a bit of time afloat. There is no need to embroider sea stories: reality does the work for you. The <em>Nina</em> was bound for Mystic CT, just west of Stonington, and we agreed to stay in contact to determine how we might rendezvous and catch up on doings.<br /><br /><em>Arion</em> and <em>Kerry Deare</em> passed a quiet night together in Stonington, if indeed the harbor at Stonington is ever really quiet. There are at least 2 reasons Stonington never rests. First, it's a major yachting center and yachts of all sizes and pedigrees are constantly coming and going. Second, the harbor itself is at the mercy of the prevailing southwest winds and the motion never ceases, especially when the wind pipes up each afternoon. So next morning when Susan and Kirk decided to continue west to meet commitments at home, I decided to join up with <em>Nina </em>at nearby Mystic Seaport to catch up on old times and also to enjoy a quiet harbor setting.<br /><br /><em><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8xLAna6UI/AAAAAAAAAsg/-JtBNSAk9KY/s1600/2010_09_08_Mystic+006.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516682133765810498" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8xLAna6UI/AAAAAAAAAsg/-JtBNSAk9KY/s200/2010_09_08_Mystic+006.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8vl9O1KdI/AAAAAAAAAsY/vMRGVVNQfDY/s1600/2010_09_08_Mystic+019.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516680397690579410" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8vl9O1KdI/AAAAAAAAAsY/vMRGVVNQfDY/s200/2010_09_08_Mystic+019.jpg" border="0" /></a>Nina</em> and Mystic Seaport Museum make a perfect couple. The Seaport is dedicated to preserving and honoring the seafaring traditions of the nineteenth century, and <em>Nina</em> herself perfectly exemplifies these traditions. While I was making arrangements for our visit I only half-jokingly suggested to Donna, Mystic's Assistant Dockmaster, that the Seaport should be paying <em>Nina</em> to visit rather than the other way around. As it turned out, we did <em>indeed</em> get a pretty sweet deal, but more about that later (Ingrid and Dayton checking in at the Mystic Seaport Dockmaster's Office, photo right).<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8yFjYC4zI/AAAAAAAAAso/ftbBtsqZEeQ/s1600/2010_09_08_Mystic+026.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516683139528975154" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8yFjYC4zI/AAAAAAAAAso/ftbBtsqZEeQ/s200/2010_09_08_Mystic+026.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8y6sbdPsI/AAAAAAAAAsw/kzQgx23cqX8/s1600/2010_09_08_Mystic+036.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516684052492271298" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8y6sbdPsI/AAAAAAAAAsw/kzQgx23cqX8/s200/2010_09_08_Mystic+036.jpg" border="0" /></a>Shortly after arriving we changed into our Tourist First Class garb and explored the Seaport (photo left). There is much to see and learn at the Seaport's 19 acre site and we didn't intend to waste time. I was particularly struck by the expansion of Mystic's facilities and exhibits since my last visit <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8zy6ZawwI/AAAAAAAAAs4/2F45ETCKMj0/s1600/2010_09_08_Mystic+047.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516685018314490626" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8zy6ZawwI/AAAAAAAAAs4/2F45ETCKMj0/s200/2010_09_08_Mystic+047.jpg" border="0" /></a>about 25 years ago. The number <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI81iYQkDEI/AAAAAAAAAtA/LcdjrqDcUjM/s1600/2010_09_08_Mystic+076.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516686933295893570" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI81iYQkDEI/AAAAAAAAAtA/LcdjrqDcUjM/s200/2010_09_08_Mystic+076.jpg" border="0" /></a>of classic vessels maintained by the Seaport has increased dramatically (a New England sharpie, photo upper right), and an entire 19th century maritime village now exists (photo lower left)where one can investigate the commercial and technical activities that kept the various maritime business enterprises running. There is also a wide array of exhibits designed specifically for children that permits interactive learning experiences. Facilities for visiting yachts are much more elaborate and include improved dockage, showers and restrooms, a Visiting Yachtsmen's Lounge, etc. The photo at lower right shows <em>Nina</em> at rest at the Seaport.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI85HIke6YI/AAAAAAAAAtI/D65N71Smafc/s1600/2010_09_08_Mystic+091.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516690863274518914" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI85HIke6YI/AAAAAAAAAtI/D65N71Smafc/s200/2010_09_08_Mystic+091.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI86jrl615I/AAAAAAAAAtQ/5WEOjuWawNY/s1600/2010_09_10_Mystic_3+067.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516692453223749522" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI86jrl615I/AAAAAAAAAtQ/5WEOjuWawNY/s200/2010_09_10_Mystic_3+067.jpg" border="0" /></a>The Seaport staff conducts daily demonstrations that explain in detail procedures and techniques that kept commercial vessels of the period running. We participated in hauling yards aloft (photo left), barrel making (cooperage), knot tying, and so on. There are complete facilities for all types of ship building and repair (photo right), and during our visit we toured the whaling ship <em>Charles W. Morgan</em> to observe her undergoing a complete refit, a procedure that will take many years to complete.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI894UrOtoI/AAAAAAAAAtg/0m3bPr6e_rg/s1600/2010_09_10_Mystic_3+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516696106384144002" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI894UrOtoI/AAAAAAAAAtg/0m3bPr6e_rg/s200/2010_09_10_Mystic_3+003.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI88VHM4tdI/AAAAAAAAAtY/TGGUMckO0Jc/s1600/2010_09_09_Mystic_2+007.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516694401960162770" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI88VHM4tdI/AAAAAAAAAtY/TGGUMckO0Jc/s200/2010_09_09_Mystic_2+007.jpg" border="0" /></a>Ingrid is herself a talented musician and we were able to meet and hear many of the Seaport's own musicians perform period music. Sailors of the period had little free time, but when they <em>did</em> get to relax they made the most of it playing music, practicing the sailors' arts (net making, photo lower left), and keeping up communications with their families back home.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8_GHxt9OI/AAAAAAAAAtw/rT7qAYo3ZNo/s1600/2010_09_10_Mystic_3+057.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516697442951492834" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8_GHxt9OI/AAAAAAAAAtw/rT7qAYo3ZNo/s200/2010_09_10_Mystic_3+057.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8-co-pERI/AAAAAAAAAto/Zu0dH8NoYwo/s1600/2010_09_10_Mystic_3+044.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516696730309562642" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI8-co-pERI/AAAAAAAAAto/Zu0dH8NoYwo/s200/2010_09_10_Mystic_3+044.jpg" border="0" /></a>It is safe to say that the music and demonstrations were well enjoyed by all present, including Ingrid (photo right) and the many visitors who enjoyed the daily Dog Watch music sessions held on the main deck of the <em>Charles W. Morgan</em> (photo below).<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516699013132469730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TI9AhhKCReI/AAAAAAAAAt4/qa9WkzM9Lr8/s320/2010_09_10_Mystic_3+037.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJczJCymOqI/AAAAAAAAAu8/WOGqVSdBN6A/s1600/2010_09_08_Mystic+070.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518936098826762914" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TJczJCymOqI/AAAAAAAAAu8/WOGqVSdBN6A/s200/2010_09_08_Mystic+070.jpg" border="0" /></a>Too soon was the visit over, but not before the staff did us the very large favor of allowing us to stay 3 nights while charging only for one, and that at the members rate. The staff could not have been more pleasant, and I suspect that a part of their largess was due to the presence of <em>Nina</em> and her crew, who provided as much inspiration to them as they did to us. And for those doubters out there who think Hollywood is only a fantasy, there really is a "Mystic Pizza."</p></div>"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-27650994721168844262010-09-04T08:06:00.072-04:002010-09-05T15:22:24.646-04:00At New Bedford: 01 - 04 Sep - Hurricane Warnings<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TII4B938OYI/AAAAAAAAApA/e4kxQChhJoc/s1600/hurricane.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513030500295129474" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 60px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 106px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TII4B938OYI/AAAAAAAAApA/e4kxQChhJoc/s320/hurricane.jpg" border="0" /></a>New Bedford is itself an almost perfect natural harbor. It is large, deep, and well protected with easy access and a convenient central location. Since the 1960's when the massive hurricane gate system was added, it has become known as one of the most secure major harbors on the US East Coast. Among mariners it is axiomatic that New Bedford is the safest location in the area to seek refuge during bad weather. For these reasons and others, I made a special effort to arrive at New Bedford Harbor with time to spare in order to guarantee a secure berth.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TII7gkigT4I/AAAAAAAAApI/xyjJtJKsICk/s1600/images.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513034324605161346" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 133px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 133px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TII7gkigT4I/AAAAAAAAApI/xyjJtJKsICk/s320/images.jpg" border="0" /></a>The harbor (right photo) consists of New Bedford on the west bank of the Acushnet River, and Fairhaven on the east. Most commercial fishing activity is centered on the New Bedford waterfront, and the fishing fleet is definitely one to reckon with (photo below left). New Bedford <em>may</em> have the largest concentration of active fishing vessels in the <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINI9HZMcgI/AAAAAAAAApY/uKendPlI7uk/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+002.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513330583625560578" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINI9HZMcgI/AAAAAAAAApY/uKendPlI7uk/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+002.jpg" border="0" /></a>world. Even if that is <em>not</em> the case, it seems so to a casual observer. There is an endless array of wharves and piers crowded with rugged and fierce looking fishing vessels of all shapes and sizes, mostly massive. Fairhaven on the opposite side of the Acushnet River also has its share of commercial vessels in addition to several large marine repair and service operations. Sprinkled among these commercial facilities are many businesses designed to serve recreational vessels, the heaviest concentration being on and around Pope's Island in the middle of the harbor. It's safe to say that if a vessel operator cannot get the job done here, it simply cannot be done.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TII9OIGMYTI/AAAAAAAAApQ/N1RbncnXGUQ/s1600/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+069.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513036206755832114" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TII9OIGMYTI/AAAAAAAAApQ/N1RbncnXGUQ/s200/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+069.jpg" border="0" /></a>While underway from Shelburne to New Bedford, I'd contacted friends Susan and Kirk ("Captain Kirk" at left) who have been cruising their yacht <em>Arion</em> along the US Northeast Coast this summer. I was both surprised and pleased to learn that they were then in nearby Cuttyhunk Harbor and they agreed to rendezvous with <em>Kerry Deare</em> in New Bedford and wait out the weather behind the secure hurricane gates. The plan was that <em>Arion</em> would secure to a mooring, <em>Kerry Deare</em> would secure at the Fairhaven Shipyard, and after preparing the boats for nasty weather we ourselves would spend Friday evening (03 September) safely tucked away in a hotel room ashore in New Bedford. This also meant we would have time to enjoy the sights, tastes, and sounds of New Bedford, the "Whaling City."<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINPuQ32xwI/AAAAAAAAApg/9R84UcWXghQ/s1600/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+054.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513338025053439746" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINPuQ32xwI/AAAAAAAAApg/9R84UcWXghQ/s200/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+054.jpg" border="0" /></a>Thursday, 02 September, was filled with storm preparations and general maintenance on both yachts. Meanwhile the harbor was quickly filling with vessels of all types and sizes, and we were pleased to see among them the State of Delaware tall ship <em>Kalmar Nyckel</em> (<a href="http://www.kalmarnyckel.org/" target="_blank">http://www.kalmarnyckel.org/</a>). She was nestled safely among the fishing fleet in a secure berth. Since my wife Sonia is a "Blue Hen" (i.e., University of Delaware graduate), I paid special attention to this vessel.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINRwN56kGI/AAAAAAAAApo/1GSw4WkMGUc/s1600/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+093.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513340257639764066" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINRwN56kGI/AAAAAAAAApo/1GSw4WkMGUc/s200/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+093.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINUT9CDs7I/AAAAAAAAApw/oZpWEQHLI8Y/s1600/wmuse.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513343070609060786" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 126px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 189px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINUT9CDs7I/AAAAAAAAApw/oZpWEQHLI8Y/s320/wmuse.jpg" border="0" /></a>By the time we'd finished hurricane preparations late in the afternoon our appetites required immediate attention. The solution was Antonio's, a Portuguese restaurant in New Bedford that had the nod from everyone we asked. Both the service and the food lived up to expectations. We all spent one final night afloat and by Friday afternoon we'd moved ashore to a nearby hotel and were ready to explore New Bedford (at left, Susan and Kirk in "Tourist Mode"). The obvious first stop was the New Bedford Whaling Museum, the city's most popular attraction (right photo).<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINXo6VKy7I/AAAAAAAAAqA/U4xB8blNx1E/s1600/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+122.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513346729196047282" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINXo6VKy7I/AAAAAAAAAqA/U4xB8blNx1E/s200/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+122.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINWhxO41EI/AAAAAAAAAp4/03bytRc0wVs/s1600/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+113.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513345506983072834" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINWhxO41EI/AAAAAAAAAp4/03bytRc0wVs/s200/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+113.jpg" border="0" /></a>In our view the museum is a gem, particularly in light of its relatively small size. Architecturally and aesthetically, the designers just seemed to "get it right." There is something for everyone here, including a model of the famous Concordia yawl (photo left), a design well known to sailors and built nearby. The main hall of the museum (right photo) features several rare whale skeletons and an industrial style that somehow seemed perfect. By the way, if your taste runs to whale skeletons, this just might be the place (below).<br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513348077077360242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINY3XlHbnI/AAAAAAAAAqI/WR23lqxuH_o/s320/2010_09_04_Fairhaven+129.jpg" border="0" /></p><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINcnyK00iI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/u46FPI5DWY4/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+011.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513352207383450146" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINcnyK00iI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/u46FPI5DWY4/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+011.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p></p><p>By the next morning, Saturday, Hurricane Earl had passed through without major impact (we are pleased to note). I was struck once again by the apparent disappointment of several commentators who opined that the hurricane was "not all it could have been." I do not at all understand what these morons are talking about. Would they perhaps be satisfied with a few dozen yachts strewn along the beach, or maybe 17 senior citizens stranded and drowned on Nantucket? In any event while Kirk attended to details aboard <em>Arion</em>, Susan and I continued to collect Tourist Points in New Bedford. This we accomplished with a self-guided walking tour that lasted over 5 hours, beginning with a visit dockside to the <em>Kalmar Nyckel</em> (photo right). </p><p></p><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINfHMNXCRI/AAAAAAAAAqg/adWEY8_zKYs/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+018.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513354945972603154" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINfHMNXCRI/AAAAAAAAAqg/adWEY8_zKYs/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+018.jpg" border="0" /></a>Prior to the storm's passing the crew had secured all gear, sails, and equipment. Now that it was time to get back underway, those preparations had <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINeti9kqMI/AAAAAAAAAqY/OEny-c2_w6Q/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+017.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513354505403803842" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINeti9kqMI/AAAAAAAAAqY/OEny-c2_w6Q/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+017.jpg" border="0" /></a>to be reversed, and on a vessel like this with miles of lines and cordage, this is no small task. All hands were put to work to get the job done (left photo). Susan did her part from the sidelines (photo upper right) by encouraging the <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINg6VKx-FI/AAAAAAAAAqo/wHJgYH4k3Bk/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+022.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513356924062660690" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TINg6VKx-FI/AAAAAAAAAqo/wHJgYH4k3Bk/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+022.jpg" border="0" /></a>crew to work harder and faster. She might have made a pretty good whaling captain in the day, and apparently others thought so also because in short order she and I were interviewed by a local radio reporter seeking our opinions on how things should be handled properly aboard ship (photo lower right). Of course we provided definitive answers to all his questions on whaling ship management, local restaurants, global warming, world hunger, tying a flying bowline knot, and a range of other vital issues.</p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIOf9MW4zRI/AAAAAAAAAq4/Hb9yxnLC9a8/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+025.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513426242469678354" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIOf9MW4zRI/AAAAAAAAAq4/Hb9yxnLC9a8/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+025.jpg" border="0" /></a>Then it was off to the New Bedford visitors centers for an injection of Tourist Info. There are 2 centers in town. Located on the waterfront, the New Bedford Visitors Centers provides information on water-related activities, tours, the waterfront itself, the commercial fishing activities that dominate the immediate area, and so on. When we visited we <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPArAP-f1I/AAAAAAAAArA/1AcxZSgddso/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+031.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513462213865537362" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPArAP-f1I/AAAAAAAAArA/1AcxZSgddso/s320/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+031.jpg" border="0" /></a>spoke with Rihjui, a friendly and helpful park official from Ghana (photo left), who loaded us up with useful information. Thusly armed we proceed into the restored part of New Bedford and immediately encountered two women dressed in period costume (right photo) who immediately brought us up to date on the latest New Bedford gossip. Latest that is, if you consider the year 1836 recent. These two remained strictly in character despite my attempts to break the spell. And a magic spell it was for both Susan and me. </p><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPGb3N40kI/AAAAAAAAArQ/ObZH702gHPs/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+053.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513468550812586562" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPGb3N40kI/AAAAAAAAArQ/ObZH702gHPs/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+053.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPGAK_XvoI/AAAAAAAAArI/zyybbKPXYyg/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+049.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513468075084070530" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPGAK_XvoI/AAAAAAAAArI/zyybbKPXYyg/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+049.jpg" border="0" /></a>We continued our walking tour into the restored sections of New Bedford, enjoying some of the more stately buildings as we went along. Our goal was the collection of stately residences centered on New Bedford's County Street, the location that many of the town's whaling and business elite had chosen for their elaborate homes. The jewel of this collection, the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum, is discussed separately below. What struck both Susan and me about this collection of homes was the sheer number of fully restored masterpieces available to view. Even though we spent nearly 2 full hours walking on, in and around County Street, we barely scraped the surface. There is much available online about these buildings so I will post only a few selected photos. The choices are not easy. </p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513469585273225426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPHYE4hgNI/AAAAAAAAArY/PuLeMzv2s8o/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+066.jpg" border="0" /></p><p align="center">*****</p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPLMQHdgtI/AAAAAAAAArg/f4DgNFgUm9Q/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+087.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513473780176749266" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPLMQHdgtI/AAAAAAAAArg/f4DgNFgUm9Q/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+087.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPLnCNFWSI/AAAAAAAAAro/9cU1EplhG6U/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+095.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513474240298703138" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPLnCNFWSI/AAAAAAAAAro/9cU1EplhG6U/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+095.jpg" border="0" /></a>The Rotch-Jones-Duff House (photos left, right, and below) is the only County Street mansion open to the public. Susan had decided well in advance that it was a must-see item and she was quite correct. The mansion was built in 1834 for the whaling merchant William Rotch, Jr. It is in Greek Revival style and is often described as the best example of the "brave houses and flowery gardens" described by Herman Melville in <em>Moby-Dick</em>. The museum chronicles 150 years in the economic and social evolution of the city as reflected in the residencies of 3 succeeding families, the Rotch, Jones, and Duff families. Photography is forbidden <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPMXfnq1JI/AAAAAAAAArw/Kw23d_FFpgw/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+106.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513475072828560530" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPMXfnq1JI/AAAAAAAAArw/Kw23d_FFpgw/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+106.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPNXZp86cI/AAAAAAAAAr4/gmWIg7kBuSU/s1600/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+115.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513476170739149250" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPNXZp86cI/AAAAAAAAAr4/gmWIg7kBuSU/s200/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+115.jpg" border="0" /></a>inside the building, so we can show only a few views of the gardens and the exterior of the building. When Susan and I discussed the tour afterwards, we both agreed that it was a "Triumph of Modern Nautical Tourism." We hope you agree.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513477098388288866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIPONZavdWI/AAAAAAAAAsA/9RLdv9HhBUg/s400/2010_09_04-2_New_Bedford+127.jpg" border="0" />"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-13966857707846688282010-08-31T13:14:00.008-04:002010-09-05T03:48:01.693-04:00To New Bedford MA: 28 - 31 Aug - Stateside AgainWe departed Shelburne Harbor 0830 Saturday, 28 August, bound for Provincetown MA. According to the chart this was to be a 260 NM leg. We'd been pinned down in Shelburne by a series of offshore depressions and tropical cyclones since 22 August and it was beginning to seem that we'd shortly be granted Canadian citizenship by default. We finally identified a window of several days with fair or light winds that allowed passage to P-Town, so off we went.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIEzMjHBWbI/AAAAAAAAAoY/jxc999D6MO8/s1600/2010_08_31_Various+012.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512743709554334130" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIEzMjHBWbI/AAAAAAAAAoY/jxc999D6MO8/s200/2010_08_31_Various+012.jpg" border="0" /></a>Jean and Josiane on <em>Kurika</em> were directly ahead of <em>Kerry Deare</em> as we both motored the 10 or so miles down harbor to the Atlantic Ocean. My final view of these close friends was as <em>Kurika</em> passed the Cape Roseway lighthouse on McNutts Island, heading to sea (photo left). They were headed to Portland ME and all my efforts to lure them to the MA coast had been unsuccessful. It seemed I would not again have the pleasure of their company. </div><br /><div>The first obstacle one encounters when sailing west on this route is Cape Sable. The Cape has a reputation for turbulent waters, particularly when the 2 to 4 knot current there is opposed to the wind. All the cruising guides and pilot books recommend that mariners stay well offshore in this area and I planned to do just that. I'd rounded this cape several times in the past without issue, but of course there's a first time for everything and this was that time. Despite a forecast of light winds and calm seas, the NW wind came up with authority at 1300, attaining a speed of 25 to 30 knots. Ahead I could just make out <em>Kurika </em>under all plain sail smashing to weather and doing well. Little <em>Kerry Deare</em> however had other ideas and in short order we were hove to under double-reefed main with the helm down, leisurely waiting for the wind to pipe down. The old man just didn't want to bounce all that much. We got underway again at about 1700 (now using EDT). </div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIGEF9j4rXI/AAAAAAAAAo4/7kdcS_Y_uco/s1600/2010_09_03_Meteor+002.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512832656837487986" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIGEF9j4rXI/AAAAAAAAAo4/7kdcS_Y_uco/s200/2010_09_03_Meteor+002.jpg" border="0" /></a>A short time later I spoke the 154 foot schooner <em>Meteor</em> bound for Maine (photo at left by Kirk on <em>Arion</em>). I wanted to inform her captain that his AIS signal was broadcasting his destination as Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, which was obviously incorrect based on his course and speed. This is one of several instances on this cruise when transmitted AIS data did not correspond to a vessel's actual intentions. <em>Meteor's</em> skipper said he would investigate. </div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIFxdauvNkI/AAAAAAAAAog/8RWJNFXaPd4/s1600/2010_08_31_Various+018.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512812169083696706" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIFxdauvNkI/AAAAAAAAAog/8RWJNFXaPd4/s200/2010_08_31_Various+018.jpg" border="0" /></a>We continued motor sailing into light airs on relatively calm seas for the next 38 hours without incident or interruption, shutting down occassionally to check fluids, transfer fuel, and check systems. Then, while resting below about 60 NM east of the tip of Cape Cod, I was startled to learn we had a passenger. A small bird, possibly a sparrow, had landed on <em>Kerry Deare</em> for a rest and was flying around the main cabin (photo at right). During the visit the bird made a point of checking out the accommodation below decks several times and left his personal calling card on the cabin sole. Since I didn't want to tempt fate, the mess remained in place until we were securely moored at our final destination. After an hour or so he decided he didn't like sailing all that much and flew off.</div><br /><div>After 55 hours underway I finally picked up the signature of Cape Cod on the 16 mile radar range. An hour later I was able to make cell phone contact with my wife Sonia and let her know we were getting close to home, and it was during this call that she gave me the latest weather advisory on offshore tropical cyclones. We'd been out of radio contact for a few days this was very important information that helped shape our course of action for the rest of this leg.<br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIF9uEbJ9qI/AAAAAAAAAoo/7kyBtTg6BzM/s1600/2010_08_31_Various+019.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512825649293293218" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIF9uEbJ9qI/AAAAAAAAAoo/7kyBtTg6BzM/s200/2010_08_31_Various+019.jpg" border="0" /></a>The situation wasn't pretty. There were at least 2 and possibly 3 tropical systems offshore (Earl, Fiona and Gaston) that gave every evidence of heading in our direction, so finding a safe refuge was the next step. Although I'd been off soundings for well over two days and had planned a rest stop in Provincetown, I decided to continue on through the night, transit the Cape Cod Canal when the current went favorable at 0200 local, and head directly for New Bedford MA, one of the most secure harbors on the US East Coast. This decision added 40 or so NM to the leg, for a total of roughly 300 NM from Shelburfne to New Bedford via the Canal.<br /></div><div><br />I entered the Canal at almost exactly 0200 31 August, a Tuesday morning, about 64 hours out from Shelburne. As predicted the tide was just going favorable and we were soon riding the current and making 7 to 8 knots over the bottom. The Canal at night is a mysterious and quiet place and I used the full array of electronics to keep <em>Kerry Deare</em> lined up down the middle of the route. Fortunately there was no commercial traffic to worry us, and we exited the Canal at 0330 into Buzzards Bay. We were greeted by a light northerly, a perfect breeze to sail for New Bedford. That we promptly did, finally shutting down the diesel after far too many hours of constant running. Things were looking up.</div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIF-QxisAlI/AAAAAAAAAow/y69qUziMnkQ/s1600/2010_08_31_Various+050.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512826245520032338" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TIF-QxisAlI/AAAAAAAAAow/y69qUziMnkQ/s200/2010_08_31_Various+050.jpg" border="0" /></a>At 0730 we passed through the famous gates that guard New Bedford and Fairhaven from hurricanes and tropical systems. We were secured alongside at Fairhaven Shipyard at 0800, 31 August, almost exactly 3 days out of Shelburne. After a long and uneventful passage and safe arrival stateside, a welcome rest for both <em>Kerry Deare</em> and me was in store.</div>"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-26602414196784314692010-08-27T15:54:00.017-04:002010-08-27T21:11:56.067-04:00At Shelburne: 27 Aug - On The Waterfront<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THgkbACKesI/AAAAAAAAAoI/7fGQg65fVUI/s1600/2010_08_27_Shelburne+086.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510194190371945154" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THgkbACKesI/AAAAAAAAAoI/7fGQg65fVUI/s200/2010_08_27_Shelburne+086.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THgkDBEaCVI/AAAAAAAAAoA/HPFZO43OyLs/s1600/2010_08_25_NS_Various+044.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510193778332928338" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THgkDBEaCVI/AAAAAAAAAoA/HPFZO43OyLs/s200/2010_08_25_NS_Various+044.jpg" border="0" /></a>We are still in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Shelburne</span> waiting for the weather to sort itself out. The complex mixture of cyclones and depressions offshore still has not allowed us to begin moving toward <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Provincetown</span> MA.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THgkuk6cB_I/AAAAAAAAAoQ/z6CSYq0Yl4I/s1600/2010_08_27_Shelburne+090.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510194526689167346" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THgkuk6cB_I/AAAAAAAAAoQ/z6CSYq0Yl4I/s200/2010_08_27_Shelburne+090.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THgjvn1pOkI/AAAAAAAAAn4/shyUjudTOJY/s1600/2010_08_25_NS_Various+041.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510193445142608450" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THgjvn1pOkI/AAAAAAAAAn4/shyUjudTOJY/s200/2010_08_25_NS_Various+041.jpg" border="0" /></a>This morning I took the dinghy out along the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Shelburne</span> waterfront to capture a few final photos of this charming town. It may be quite some time before we have the good fortune to return. Click on a photo to enlarge the view.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510191873628756274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THgiUJfi2TI/AAAAAAAAAnw/C-1dzJwSjZg/s200/2010_08_27_Shelburne+102.jpg" border="0" />"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-15318585346062139192010-08-25T23:00:00.006-04:002010-08-26T20:33:06.346-04:00At Shelburne: 25 Aug - Kerry and PaulWe are lying <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Shelburne</span> and waiting weather for our return to the US. Yesterday we interviewed several candidates for the position of Figurehead Second Class (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">FSC</span>). On ships the "figurehead" is located right at the bow just under the bowsprit (technically, at the "stem head"). From this position he or she has a clear view of the dangers ahead. Obviously this is an important job.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYNN3iJZcI/AAAAAAAAAmo/rUsz_X-KGVU/s1600/2010_08_25_NS_Various+035.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509605726031013314" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYNN3iJZcI/AAAAAAAAAmo/rUsz_X-KGVU/s200/2010_08_25_NS_Various+035.jpg" border="0" /></a>From the start one candidate stood out from the crowd. Young Kerry <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Arcon</span>, son of local boat builder Charlie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Arcon</span> and his wife Kim, was head and shoulders above the other candidates. We knew this immediately after watching this brave lad survive a bicycle wipe out in front of his home. He faced the consequences with courage and honor (Kerry's mom Kim supplies medical aid to the wounded bicyclist at left).<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYPNuDE16I/AAAAAAAAAmw/eGKgtCb6IAc/s1600/2010_08_25_NS_Various+049.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509607922508027810" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYPNuDE16I/AAAAAAAAAmw/eGKgtCb6IAc/s200/2010_08_25_NS_Various+049.jpg" border="0" /></a>Kerry's performance during sea trials was not without complications. While we were tooling around <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Shelburne</span> Harbor during the interview process and getting to know one another, the spray from the waves gave him second thoughts about the job and he asked if the position of Cabin Boy was stll open. Unfortunately the minimum term for a new <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">FSC</span> is 3 years and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">FSC</span> Kerry still has 2 years, 364 days, 23 hours, and 45 minutes left to serve before he can even be <em>considered</em> for promotion. To ease the disappointment, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">FSC</span> Kerry was awarded an extra portion of ship's rations (photo right) and given afternoon liberty.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYT-bZ9UsI/AAAAAAAAAnA/kzDDogZ5r1w/s1600/2010_08_25_NS_Various+059.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509613157363831490" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYT-bZ9UsI/AAAAAAAAAnA/kzDDogZ5r1w/s200/2010_08_25_NS_Various+059.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYTQpiIkJI/AAAAAAAAAm4/HhQBJwDep1E/s1600/2010_08_25_NS_Various+068.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509612370882236562" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYTQpiIkJI/AAAAAAAAAm4/HhQBJwDep1E/s200/2010_08_25_NS_Various+068.jpg" border="0" /></a>This morning I visited the shop (photo left) of local boat builder and designer Paul, a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Shelburne</span> resident who until recently lived in British Columbia. Paul specializes in wooden boats with a traditional flavor and it was a pleasure to watch him at work (photo right). Although many modern materials are used in the process of producing a wooden boat, the basic steps of design and construction are not far removed from the methods shipbuilders developed hundreds of years ago."Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-33791964400912884382010-08-24T05:29:00.009-04:002010-08-25T02:52:30.896-04:00The Cruising Life: 24 Aug - Questions For CruisersI am no longer cruising full time. There, I've said it.<br /><br />Yet there was a time when I numbered myself among the degenerate masses, aimlessly wandering the seas and oceans (not quite sure about the distinction, mind you). We had our code and we lived by it. We rarely allowed outsiders inside, and tolerated them only when personal gain seemed probable. For one thing, "they" kept asking questions we couldn't answer, or didn't want to contemplate. Here are some of the deal breakers.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Question One:</strong> How long does it take to get from ... to ... ?<br /><br /><strong> Wrong Answer:</strong> 3 days, 7 hours, and 24 minutes.<br /><br /><strong> Right Answer:</strong> There <em>is </em>no right answer. Cruisers get somewhere and realize that Doris and Fred on <em>Bottomscraper </em>are there. This means they're in a good spot and it's time to start the party. It really doesn't matter that everyone has another 1200 miles to the planned destination. The concept of "right now" is much more important that the idea of "destination." Besides it takes forever to get to the "destination," and I'm not even going to get into the part about tacking and light winds and that sort of thing. After all, it's <em>now</em> now and I have important stuff to do. Now.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Question Two:</strong> When you sail to Bermuda, do you anchor each night?<br /><br /><strong> Wrong Answer:</strong> Only if we are making a souffle for dinner.<br /><br /><strong> Right Answer:</strong> Listen, idiot, and I'm only gonna tell you one time. If you buy the 6 miles of anchor rode and pull it up each morning, it's a deal.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Queston Three:</strong> How much does this boat cost<strong>?</strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong> Wrong Answer:</strong> $63, 500.<br /><br /><strong> Right Answer:</strong> $24, 700, two good jobs, 1.6 marriages, 8 tuition payments, and one's sense of humor.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Question Four:</strong> Do you really live in Wilmington, Delaware?<br /><br /><strong> Wrong Answer:</strong> Well, my accountant told me ... (on and on for 15 to 20 minutes).<br /><br /><strong> Right Answer:</strong> Yes.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Question Five:</strong> How many does it sleep?<br /><br /><strong>Wrong Answer:</strong> The sales brochure says eight adults and two cats.<br /><br /><strong>Right Answer:</strong> This boat sleeps 2, feeds 8, drinks 12, and tolerates essentially no one. so get the &*%$#! outta here now."Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-15325541328955105952010-08-22T11:13:00.013-04:002010-08-26T02:28:40.126-04:00Shelburne Redux: 20 - 22 Aug - Where Did Nova Scotia Go?<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYHhIaLKBI/AAAAAAAAAmY/Ldf6U_b0Rms/s1600/2010_08_25_NS_Various+044.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509599459908724754" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYHhIaLKBI/AAAAAAAAAmY/Ldf6U_b0Rms/s200/2010_08_25_NS_Various+044.jpg" border="0" /></a>We arrived at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Shelburne</span> Harbor Yacht Club this morning at 0800, Sunday, direct from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Canso</span> (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Shelburne</span> waterfront at left). The trip began 1000 last Friday and required two nights at sea. There isn't much one can say about the trip itself. When we saw a "weather window" that allowed us to make miles west, we jumped on it. Our reward was the last night at sea. Though windless, the night was a beautiful combination of calm winds and seas, a full moon, and time to reflect on this wonderful cruise and the many people who made it so.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYJBzMyHsI/AAAAAAAAAmg/rG6q7_6AT2A/s1600/2010_08_25_NS_Various+009.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509601120662724290" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/THYJBzMyHsI/AAAAAAAAAmg/rG6q7_6AT2A/s200/2010_08_25_NS_Various+009.jpg" border="0" /></a>When eastbound to Newfoundland this past July, we sailed direct to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Canso</span> from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Shelburne</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Canso</span> is at the eastern end of Nova <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Scotia</span>, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Shelburne</span> is at the western end, so this means we bypassed all the harbors along the Nova <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Scotia</span> coast to gain time for Newfoundland. Having visited Newfoundland (albeit all too briefly) we returned west to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Shelburne</span> direct from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Canso</span>, again bypassing the attractions of this beautiful province (<em><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Kurika</span></em> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">westbound</span> to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Shelburne</span> at right). In effect, although we've <em>visited</em> Nova <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Scotia</span> this summer, at the same time we <em>ignored</em> most of Nova <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Scotia</span>. This contradiction is a natural result of the "voyaging" mentality needed to accomplish cruising objectives with a small yacht, and this discipline is the basic ingredient for "making miles."<br /><br />Now we are preparing to return to the US. It's about 260 NM from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Shelburne</span> to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Provincetown</span> MA, and departure will depend entirely on the availability of another weather window with favorable winds and conditions. As I write this entry, the weather picture is a bit uncertain. A deep low pressure system is making its way up the US East Coast over the next few days and the ocean will remain unsettled until at least Friday or Saturday. The North Atlantic under such conditions is no place for a small yacht. Stay tuned and we will keep you posted."Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-15418949895172021762010-08-19T14:27:00.012-04:002010-08-19T15:40:35.046-04:00St. Peters and Canso: 18 - 19 Aug - You "CAN-SO" Go Home Again<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TG18EG0EGMI/AAAAAAAAAlw/7nqBC2YTWag/s1600/2010_08_19_St_Peters+068.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507194329334290626" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TG18EG0EGMI/AAAAAAAAAlw/7nqBC2YTWag/s200/2010_08_19_St_Peters+068.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TG17TO-x4JI/AAAAAAAAAlo/MselflVo-Zk/s1600/2010_08_18_St_Peters+002.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507193489713127570" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TG17TO-x4JI/AAAAAAAAAlo/MselflVo-Zk/s200/2010_08_18_St_Peters+002.jpg" border="0" /></a>We are in full "homeward bound" mode and the last 2 travel days exemplify what that means. We departed Baddeck (leaving Baddeck Harbor at left), the northern extremity of the Bras d'Or Lakes cruising area, Wednesday morning and arrived at St. Peters Canal and Lock (right), the southern extremity, by 1500 that afternoon, a distance of 30 NM. The Bras d'Or Lakes are considered by some to be one of the finest cruising grounds in North America. In our case we treated the Lakes as merely an obstacle between where we are, and where we want to be. Instead of the weeks many boats spend cruising the Lakes, we passed through in 6 hours.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TG19hXHRw2I/AAAAAAAAAmA/r1EmSRwhqHc/s1600/2010_08_19_St_Peters+050.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507195931437679458" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TG19hXHRw2I/AAAAAAAAAmA/r1EmSRwhqHc/s200/2010_08_19_St_Peters+050.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TG19OWDx65I/AAAAAAAAAl4/ASSs8pdAXAY/s1600/2010_08_19_St_Peters+040.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507195604737059730" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TG19OWDx65I/AAAAAAAAAl4/ASSs8pdAXAY/s200/2010_08_19_St_Peters+040.jpg" border="0" /></a>St. Peters Canal and Lock separate the Lakes from the Atlantic Ocean. This is a delightful stop on the route and is one of the prime provisioning areas for boats cruising the Lakes. It's also quite pretty (photo below) and we enjoyed our brief stay. Early this morning the calm waters allowed me to capture <em>Kurika</em> (left) and <em>Kerry Deare</em> (right) totally at rest on the Canal.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507196381416671186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TG197jaoR9I/AAAAAAAAAmI/N_PjQAZOqWE/s200/2010_08_19_St_Peters+002.jpg" border="0" /> <p>Later this morning we departed St. Peters Canal for Canso, a 20 mile hop, arriving just after 1200. This afternoon while Jean and Josiane explore Grassy Island, I will take a close look at the offshore weather to determine the next step.</p>"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-77388847806068538612010-08-17T23:00:00.016-04:002010-08-18T04:28:46.468-04:00Baddeck, Cape Breton: 17 Aug - All That Glitters ...<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGuWsioqGkI/AAAAAAAAAk4/d3C3TxztUg0/s1600/2010_08_17_Baddeck+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506660661346310722" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGuWsioqGkI/AAAAAAAAAk4/d3C3TxztUg0/s200/2010_08_17_Baddeck+003.jpg" border="0" /></a>For the first time on this cruise, I have encountered a destination that simply does not live up to expectations. Although Baddeck is the logical center of yachting activity in the Bras d'Or Lakes, it functions largely as a tourist magnet drawing visitors arriving by automobile and tour bus (photo left). This doesn't mean Baddeck lacks the facilities and amenities that allow it to claim being a first class yachting center. What Baddeck lacks is authentic charm.<br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGuW91TlmKI/AAAAAAAAAlA/SqeGARFsfrY/s1600/2010_08_17_Baddeck+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506660958415984802" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGuW91TlmKI/AAAAAAAAAlA/SqeGARFsfrY/s200/2010_08_17_Baddeck+004.jpg" border="0" /></a>We stayed alongside at Baddeck Marine just west of the Town Wharf, and the service and facilities were more than satisfactory. However as I was walking through the village, I had to <em>force</em> myself to use the camera. There simply were no photographic subjects that compelled me to shoot pictures. There are indeed one or two attractive churches (photo right), offset by many tourist-oriented restaurants. There is a multitude of tourist gift shops filled with identical "junk" imported directly from China and stamped "Baddeck." Indeed there is no unifying characteristic that pulls Baddeck together. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGuX2CDxEtI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/pNbKSP6sWj4/s1600/2010_08_17_Baddeck+018.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506661923911963346" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGuX2CDxEtI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/pNbKSP6sWj4/s200/2010_08_17_Baddeck+018.jpg" border="0" /></a>The biggest tourist disappointment was the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, an agglomeration of every conceivable detail related to this man's life and considerable achievement, but at the same time an almost unmanageable array of minutiae that would put even a Bell enthusiast to sleep. And a good sound sleep it would be. However the Bras d'Or Lakes Interpretive Center (photo left) was both an interesting exhibit on local ecology and the nature and characteristics of the Lakes, as well as well staffed facility whose representatives were able to answer all the questions we posed. The Lake system is a marvel and it deserves the care and attention is seems to be getting. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGuYkd-T4SI/AAAAAAAAAlg/BmE3aT8V7ig/s1600/2010_08_17_Baddeck+033.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506662721679253794" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGuYkd-T4SI/AAAAAAAAAlg/BmE3aT8V7ig/s200/2010_08_17_Baddeck+033.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGuYTJc2VxI/AAAAAAAAAlY/2gE8x6ZRn3Q/s1600/2010_08_17_Baddeck+022.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506662424112420626" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGuYTJc2VxI/AAAAAAAAAlY/2gE8x6ZRn3Q/s200/2010_08_17_Baddeck+022.jpg" border="0" /></a>I am glad I finally visited Baddeck, "the goal of many a cruising man" as they say in all the stuffy New England cruising guides. However I won't fret long about leaving.</div></div>"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-3653779914215516032010-08-16T16:00:00.004-04:002010-08-17T15:01:59.051-04:00To Baddeck on the Bras d'Or: 16 Aug - Still Waters Indeed Run DeepAll good things must end and unfortunately so must our Newfoundland visit. We departed Ship Cove on Ramea at 0730 local on Sunday 15 August, bound for Baddeck on Cape Breton's Bras d'Or Lakes. Conditions were tame, with calm winds and seas, bright sunshine, and unlimited visibility. The distance of 164 NM meant we would spend a single night at sea and arrive Baddeck late Monday afternoon. That's exactly what occurred.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpTXM1ZsRI/AAAAAAAAAkI/-jYcXWPL5rc/s1600/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+113.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506305152461156626" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpTXM1ZsRI/AAAAAAAAAkI/-jYcXWPL5rc/s200/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+113.jpg" border="0" /></a>Although I hoisted the mainsail for technical reasons, we never encountered any wind while crossing Cabot Straight. Only rarely have I seen such calm waters (photo left). The diesel ran well for the entire 32 hours of the passage. The way we usually handle situations like this is to shut the diesel down every 12 hours to allow checks of fluid levels, connections, possible leaks, make fuel transfers, etc. This we did twice, and in each case all went well. That's fortunate, because without a breath of wind, an engine malfunction would have meant sitting out at sea for a very long time.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpVvIuJ7hI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/w1gmgUvNb3g/s1600/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+118.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506307762697137682" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpVvIuJ7hI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/w1gmgUvNb3g/s200/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+118.jpg" border="0" /></a>In calm conditions the routine at sea is a bit unusual. Regular "housekeeping" of a type not possible in rougher waters can be attempted. One does not have to hold on for 24 hours a day, and projects requiring two hands and some dexterity are possible. One of these is planning future aspects of the cruise, sorting charts, getting computer records up to date, and the like (photo right).<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpXhnATwjI/AAAAAAAAAkg/2LXf97aRE1g/s1600/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+136.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506309729331429938" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpXhnATwjI/AAAAAAAAAkg/2LXf97aRE1g/s200/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+136.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpW9vf1HmI/AAAAAAAAAkY/eJBirB92SPM/s1600/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+126.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506309113135832674" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpW9vf1HmI/AAAAAAAAAkY/eJBirB92SPM/s200/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+126.jpg" border="0" /></a>A sunset at sea is always something to behold, and I will admit that I could have done it more justice with a few camera adjustments. For those who have not enjoyed such an event, feast your eyes (photo left). Once the sun has disappeared, the remaining light plays tricks with the horizon and offers up visual treats simply not available on land (photo right).<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506311078334185442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpYwIboP-I/AAAAAAAAAko/nlSRX38mwOM/s200/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+140.jpg" border="0" />Finally when it is dark and the skies are clear, it is never really dark because the starlight is sufficient to allow surprising colors and images (photo above).<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpaEWKBnZI/AAAAAAAAAkw/hfVH40XIcZI/s1600/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+154.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506312525127458194" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpaEWKBnZI/AAAAAAAAAkw/hfVH40XIcZI/s200/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+154.jpg" border="0" /></a>We entered the Great Bras d'Or channel at about 1030 local time (Atlantic Daylight Time) and were officially on the island of Cape Breton, itself a part of Nova Scotia. Since we were still in Canadian waters and had never left them, there was no requirement to contact the authorities and we simply proceeded toward Baddeck, about 25 miles further on. We reached Baddeck at 1530 and after a bit of dock socializing decided it was time for some real rest. After all, the great Bras d'Or Lakes adventure was about to begin."Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-52036207004839957582010-08-14T22:00:00.022-04:002010-08-17T04:16:30.124-04:00Ramea Day Four: 14 Aug - Local Music and Authentic FlavorWe were able to stay at Ramea for only 2 of the 3 days of music at the Rock Island Music Festival (<a href="http://www.explorenewfoundlandandlabrador.com/communities/ramea.htm" target="_blank">http://www.explorenewfoundlandandlabrador.com/communities/ramea.htm</a>), but that was enough time to prove that the islands are filled with musical talent. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGo26Zo6d7I/AAAAAAAAAi4/uXttAhctRBo/s1600/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+022.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506273871356655538" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGo26Zo6d7I/AAAAAAAAAi4/uXttAhctRBo/s200/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+022.jpg" border="0" /></a>The musicians ranged from the local heating oil delivery man who played his Fender Stratocaster bass to perfection, to a retired fishermen who "wailed" on a mean button accordion, to a Nashville "session" musician whose original music hit at the heart of the out-port experience. What these musicians had in common was talent and the desire to create and present music based on their own experiences, history, and values. This they did at a very high level.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGoz7zFAodI/AAAAAAAAAio/jFGDgxNLekM/s1600/2010_08_14_Ramea+067.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506270596830372306" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGoz7zFAodI/AAAAAAAAAio/jFGDgxNLekM/s200/2010_08_14_Ramea+067.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGoyG9c1qTI/AAAAAAAAAig/lMm_XwDhlI8/s1600/2010_08_14_Ramea+061.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506268589569976626" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGoyG9c1qTI/AAAAAAAAAig/lMm_XwDhlI8/s200/2010_08_14_Ramea+061.jpg" border="0" /></a>I had several favorites among the many players. Stan MacDonald (photo left) has been making music in Ramea and elsewhere in Newfoundland for many years. He was kind enough to dedicate several of his popular songs to a few of the visiting sailors in the audience. Stan was accompanied by banjoist and sailor Jim Shaw (photo right). Jim and wife Judie spend part of the summer on Ramea, and we were able to compare sailing experiences and well as musical tastes.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGo5JHV9hpI/AAAAAAAAAjI/vzvSmGLgweo/s1600/2010_08_14_Ramea+080.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506276323166619282" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGo5JHV9hpI/AAAAAAAAAjI/vzvSmGLgweo/s200/2010_08_14_Ramea+080.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGo4vhBYr_I/AAAAAAAAAjA/Jd9rD4e0Lnk/s1600/2010_08_14_Ramea+087.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506275883383042034" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGo4vhBYr_I/AAAAAAAAAjA/Jd9rD4e0Lnk/s200/2010_08_14_Ramea+087.jpg" border="0" /></a>Craig Young is another musician I met on the wharf just prior to the festival. Craig was born in nearby Grey River and has worked in Nashville and many other places in the US. He is well known and appreciated throughout Newfoundland. It was a pleasure to watch Craig work and to listen to his original songs describing life and family in and near Ramea and Grey River. Like most musicians at the festival, Craig was accompanied by close friends and family members on stage.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGo7XX5etYI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/7f_7ZVPbmZ8/s1600/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+074.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506278767151986050" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGo7XX5etYI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/7f_7ZVPbmZ8/s200/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+074.jpg" border="0" /></a>Another special favorite was Roland Skinner, whose music included some of the older traditional ballads of the British Isles as well as music specific to this part of Newfoundland. In addition to being a talented and capable musician, Roland also found time to fill <em>Kerry Deare's</em> larder with fresh moose steaks from the hills of Newfoundland. "Yummy" just doesn't cover it. Thanks, Roland.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506284478591795986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpAj0q2AxI/AAAAAAAAAjg/NnuwSfIZ4Q4/s200/2010_08_14_Ramea+016.jpg" border="0" /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpARXv7QAI/AAAAAAAAAjY/LLeCsIrEEiM/s1600/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+064.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506284161590837250" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpARXv7QAI/AAAAAAAAAjY/LLeCsIrEEiM/s200/2010_08_14_15_16_Various+064.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpCIugIx9I/AAAAAAAAAjw/OvMU10-vpS0/s1600/2010_08_14_Ramea+073.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506286212103063506" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpCIugIx9I/AAAAAAAAAjw/OvMU10-vpS0/s200/2010_08_14_Ramea+073.jpg" border="0" /></a>Don't think for a minute that this <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpAyeCqdzI/AAAAAAAAAjo/j7GHBHvlGZU/s1600/2010_08_14_Ramea+071.jpg"></a>kind of music is comprised entirely of staid front porch ballads sung by retired postal workers. Once these musicians get going, there is no way for the audience to sit still. They just get out on the floor and "do it.""Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-2981894732828550162010-08-13T10:00:00.005-04:002010-08-17T05:05:36.981-04:00Ramea Day Three: 13 Aug - Lucky "Friday the 13th"Friday August 13th was first of 3 consecutive days of music at Ramea's Rock Island Music Festival, and I was looking forward to the performances. To get in the swing of things I decided to do an early morning walking tour of the island. Many residents had suggested it was the only way to truly learn <em>about</em> the island. The Ramea Heritage Center provides a hand-drawn map with many points of interest, but there is little doubt that the (literal) highlight of the walking tour is a climb to the top of Man-of-War Hill. The problem: I <em>hate</em> heights. In fact I'd already told any one within listening distance that I was simply not going up that hill. So much for idle threats.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnYXeKuThI/AAAAAAAAAhY/7w3BbseoABo/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+194.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506169917183774226" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnYXeKuThI/AAAAAAAAAhY/7w3BbseoABo/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+194.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnX8ciWDiI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/L1aDbvT3Eao/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+147.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506169452889509410" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnX8ciWDiI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/L1aDbvT3Eao/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+147.jpg" border="0" /></a>When I came to the location on the walking tour (photo left) where the sign to Man-of-War Hill is posted, something strange happened and I found myself drawn to the challenge. The next thing I knew I was climbing to the top, despite the fact that this activity is completely alien to me. I am still not sure why I did it, and I'd never do it again. Even the pictures give me vertigo.<br /><br /><br />Here for your viewing pleasure are views from the top of Man-of-War Hill.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGndYt2tLzI/AAAAAAAAAh4/JAm0RJ7bUsg/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+114.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506175436132790066" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGndYt2tLzI/AAAAAAAAAh4/JAm0RJ7bUsg/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+114.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnbKDtj4vI/AAAAAAAAAhw/aBqUxPTtIHI/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+136.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506172985278718706" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnbKDtj4vI/AAAAAAAAAhw/aBqUxPTtIHI/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+136.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506172561385566306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnaxYljsGI/AAAAAAAAAho/Wz6qSdrktMI/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+131.jpg" border="0" /> </p><p>While we're in the mood, here are a few Ramea images that caught my fancy. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnfdW8jrYI/AAAAAAAAAiA/o3Dt5h6o68o/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+011.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506177714905918850" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnfdW8jrYI/AAAAAAAAAiA/o3Dt5h6o68o/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+011.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpQa0qynxI/AAAAAAAAAkA/T6M6PbnCvYU/s1600/2010_08_14_Ramea+120.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506301916158795538" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpQa0qynxI/AAAAAAAAAkA/T6M6PbnCvYU/s200/2010_08_14_Ramea+120.jpg" border="0" /></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506179137339786834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGngwJ7OBlI/AAAAAAAAAiY/0dG5JbqB4GU/s200/2010_08_14_Ramea+131.jpg" border="0" /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpPzcCBViI/AAAAAAAAAj4/AVoarB2DrhE/s1600/2010_08_14_Ramea+119.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506301239530444322" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGpPzcCBViI/AAAAAAAAAj4/AVoarB2DrhE/s200/2010_08_14_Ramea+119.jpg" border="0" /></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506178252441277746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnf8pa-VTI/AAAAAAAAAiI/QlcPK6vqJFM/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+198.jpg" border="0" /> </p>"Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-63164590186486801662010-08-12T23:00:00.007-04:002010-08-24T05:27:14.454-04:00m/v Gallipoli: 12 Aug - Island Lifeline<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGm3R16--HI/AAAAAAAAAgo/kF-he75s5T8/s1600/2010_08_14_Ramea+140.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506133536597276786" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGm3R16--HI/AAAAAAAAAgo/kF-he75s5T8/s200/2010_08_14_Ramea+140.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGmzl3AmG5I/AAAAAAAAAgQ/uJ5yx0jS7hE/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+047.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506129482440121234" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGmzl3AmG5I/AAAAAAAAAgQ/uJ5yx0jS7hE/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+047.jpg" border="0" /></a>On Thursday morning I had the good fortune to meet Captain Leslie Cutler (photo left), skipper of the ferry <em>Gallipoli, </em>as he was walking to work from his home on a hill overlooking Ship Cove in the Ramea Islands. He was headed to the ferry wharf to begin another day in command of his vessel (photo right) and to continue the tradition of offering a vital service to communities like Ramea. The ferry system provides a lifeline for isolated out-ports along the Newfoundland South Coast, and it would be difficult to overestimate its importance. Obviously I was quite excited when Captain Les invited me on board to tour the bridge and learn more about <em>Gallipoli </em>(<a href="http://www.tw.gov.nl.ca/ferryservices/schedules/l_ramea.html" target="_blank">http://www.tw.gov.nl.ca/ferryservices/schedules/l_ramea.html</a>).<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGm00cRE6sI/AAAAAAAAAgY/owKfU_-Jgcw/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+031.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506130832471157442" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGm00cRE6sI/AAAAAAAAAgY/owKfU_-Jgcw/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+031.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGm1714756I/AAAAAAAAAgg/2dgF7W7sAiQ/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+043.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506132059119937442" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGm1714756I/AAAAAAAAAgg/2dgF7W7sAiQ/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+043.jpg" border="0" /></a>The <em>Gallipoli</em> bridge (photo left) features every piece of modern electronic navigational equipment that one would expect, and most of the equipment is backed up by one or more spare instruments. <em>Gallipoli</em> also employs modern "pod" type propulsion units that rotate in all directions. They are controlled by a "joy stick," and this means the vessel can be maneuvered in close quarters in some of the smaller harbors. The ship's navigation station (photo right) contains electronic charting systems and a complete range of paper charts used to record up-to-the-minute positional and navigational data on the vessel and on nearby vessels.<br /><br /><em><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnNRYpt4dI/AAAAAAAAAhA/JBIlKPW4GJg/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+056.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506157717996036562" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnNRYpt4dI/AAAAAAAAAhA/JBIlKPW4GJg/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+056.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnO4vbWCCI/AAAAAAAAAhI/JRAqD8l3Chs/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+089.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506159493636294690" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGnO4vbWCCI/AAAAAAAAAhI/JRAqD8l3Chs/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+089.jpg" border="0" /></a>Gallipoli</em> carries up to 100 passengers and is furnished with life rafts capable of supporting the entire passenger manifest plus the officers and men of the vessel. The cargo bay can hold several large vehicles or many smaller vehicles, and all vehicles are backed onto the ferry cargo bay to allow fast unloading at the destination.<br /><br />It is fair to say that without the services of these ferries, which operate in all seasons and all weathers, life in out-port communities would not be possible."Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5787339581200744498.post-63834756440964838302010-08-12T17:51:00.017-04:002010-08-17T02:37:07.606-04:00Ramea Day Two: 12 Aug - Progress and Fun<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGRxzB1jZ1I/AAAAAAAAAfw/10vDrxW9K1E/s1600/2010_08_12_Ramea+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504649766033909586" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGRxzB1jZ1I/AAAAAAAAAfw/10vDrxW9K1E/s200/2010_08_12_Ramea+004.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGRxllz0HoI/AAAAAAAAAfo/pGHVNY020LE/s1600/2010_08_12_Ramea+009.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504649535172124290" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGRxllz0HoI/AAAAAAAAAfo/pGHVNY020LE/s200/2010_08_12_Ramea+009.jpg" border="0" /></a>The music doesn't start until Friday afternoon (tomorrow) making today an opportunity to get <em>Kerry Deare</em> (left) ready for the return to Nova Scotia. The trip will require additional fuel, full water tanks, a stocked ice box, checks of all gear and equipment, etc. I was able to get quite a bit accomplished in this regard, but the real action was elsewhere.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGVrUGNXjII/AAAAAAAAAgI/o_ascsU171s/s1600/2010_08_13_Ramea+041.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504924112538537090" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGVrUGNXjII/AAAAAAAAAgI/o_ascsU171s/s200/2010_08_13_Ramea+041.jpg" border="0" /></a>I decided to take an early morning walk, so coffee cup in hand I headed in the direction of the ferry dock, the lifeline for a community like Ramea. The coastal ferry <em>Gallipoli </em>was tied alongside and I stared at her impressive gear and size. As I was heading back toward the wharf I noticed a sprightly gentleman approaching in uniform and on a whim I asked if he was the ferry captain. Captain Les Cutler (photo left) replied in the affirmative and asked if I would like a tour of the bridge of his vessel. You can guess my answer. The tour was exciting, informative, and elaborate, and is the subject of a separate blog entry posted today (12 Aug). However the highlight of the tour was Captain Cutler himself. A true man of the sea and a gentleman to boot.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGRySvN-E7I/AAAAAAAAAgA/tdHd-03VaCw/s1600/Picture+016.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504650310791861170" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGRySvN-E7I/AAAAAAAAAgA/tdHd-03VaCw/s200/Picture+016.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGRyB7DUTJI/AAAAAAAAAf4/CIrqc-l9liw/s1600/Picture+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504650021910629522" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_a1yf1h_EZ94/TGRyB7DUTJI/AAAAAAAAAf4/CIrqc-l9liw/s200/Picture+003.jpg" border="0" /></a>In late afternoon I set out in the dinghy to explore the many small islands that comprise the Ramea archipelago. I studied the chart a few minutes before setting off but I was unprepared for the complexity of this area. In fact I am pretty sure I lost my way and at one point I was not sure how to proceed. The best plan was to retrace my steps, and that worked. I'd been told I might see puffins on the islands, but that did not happen. Even without puffins, the exploration was beyond ordinary."Kerry Deare of Barnegat"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00818643899790666809noreply@blogger.com0