#39 May 21st to 28th

May 21st

We partook of the the wonderful breakfast at the Marina resort again this morning, checked our fluids, engine and such and were on our way 25 miles to Annapolis, Maryland.  Bill and I have been to Annapolis many times for various boat shows, as has Terry and Randy. But those times are crazy, crowded and not the normal day to day activity.  We were excited to be approaching Annapolis from the water.  And BUSY it was!!

We threaded our way through the mooring field toward the City docks, gently entered our slip right on the main channel where boats cruised up and down - - - just like we used to do on Woodward Ave. or Gratiot when we were teens!!

Oh Look!  Pussers Landing, just over there!!

So off we went. See Simpatico!

No need to explain anything here!!!

It is lunch time after all. So -- Terry orders the special -- Soft-shelled crab sandwich!!!  I hear tell, they are really good?  Somehow I just can't get my head around it. Yes that is the whole crab!! Anyway, Terry let me taste a claw. Hmmm! pretty good!

Maybe I'll try one tomorrow!

Its turned a bit cool this evening and we are going to do spaghetti and salad for supper then sit on the back deck and watch the activity in the harbor.  Maybe a mean game of cards later!!


May 22nd
This day was rainy and dreary most of the day but we managed to catch the trolley tour around Annapolis in between showers.  The best part of the day was the arrival of William and Frances. Delightful folks we enjoyed meeting when Bill and I were traveling the Dismal Swamp on our way to Norfolk in 2015. They were crewing on other friends (Ann and Tony, you met them in my blog earlier in Isle of Hope) boat. We stopped at the Service Plaza of Highway 17 Virginia. I know, thats an auto service plaza but the Dismal Swamp canal ran right behind and they had docks for boaters to use the facilities. We stayed the night there and had plenty of time to have a picnic and docktails and camaraderie.  We then all traveled together to Herrington Harbor just south of Annapolis.

William and Frances are from England and had a Halberg Rassy Sailboat they sold in 2015. They have been travelling all around and are now back to sell all of their boat "stuff" left in storage near Annapolis. We had a great visit. And I hope to meet up with them again in the future. Maybe accompany them on one of their excursions. 

May 23rd

The morning was quiet and calm, unlike the partying going on last night at Pusser's Landing!!! Fun.
Still overcast and bleak, not ABD!

This is another port that I have always wanted to visit. Here we are entering Baltimore Harbor.  There is a lot of commercial shipping enterprises as well as a project in process of refurbishing the downtown water front.

After checking in at the Fells Point Marina we tackled the boat chores and then checked out the facilities. I was trying the lock in the Laundry area -- it wasn't locked -- so I kept fiddling with it because the Harbor master said everything was to be locked.  All of a sudden, this lady is hollering at me, "Hey, don't lock that door!  We don't lock it!"  Well, you know me, I can't hear too well, "What?"  "WE DON'T LOCK THE LAUNDRY" -- no smiles, no pleasantries,!!  "I just got here, checking things out"  She ignored me and went into the laundry.  Later as Terry and I were walking back to the dock,  this lady was approaching also. "So, you said you just got here? where are you from?"  With a smile I asked her if she found the Laundry unlocked?   She looked at me for a moment and said with a sheepish grin -- "I'm Sorry"  Her name is Paula and we got along just fine after that. 

After the chores we walked up to
Fells Street for a beer at an old tavern. The streets are paved with old stone blocks that first lived in ships as ballast. and the sidewalks are brick from another time. Warehouses being turned into condos, taking on "the chic" look.

This is Terry and Randy's last night and they treated me to a great meal at Captain James Restaurant. (shaped like a ship).

Terry and Randy were great crew, and I think they sort of didn't want to leave! That's a good thing, maybe I can impose upon them again sometime.

May 24th

They are on their way and looking forward to more adventures in their future. I really enjoyed their company and wish I had known them better at Bridgeview so many years ago.

This morning I took a little excursion to the National Aquarium and then a walk around the waterfront. This is a great example of resurgence of usefulness. People everywhere enjoying the promenade and establishments that have dressed up DownTown.

I got back just in time, the rain started again.  Bob Rudary, my next crew arrived around two. We found a grocery for a few supplies before his rental car had to go back. Then We got right to work changing oil, filter and other check points after some orientation.   Time to relax and consider whether we would leave for Delaware City in the morning.

Bill and I sailed with Bob and Nancy many summers in the North Channel when our kids were growing up along with 3 other boats from Bridgeview. Bob and Nancy's boys, Matt,Tom and Chad(son of John and Mickey Anga) and our son John had lots of fun playing "army men" on the rocks, learning to wind surf and jumping off the BIG cliff in Mill Lake off Collins Inlet, North Channel East of Kilarney.  John and Mickey's daughter Ericka and Kelly were doing the teen girl things along with the wind surfing and the BIG cliff.  Those were GOOD times.  Of course, the folks were having good times too, dinners on the rocks, pina coladas, camaradarie. . . . . 

May 25th, 26th

This day we are about to leave the Delaware Bay and travel through the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. It is blowing a bit, but cloudy and rainy and dreary. After checking the weather we realize that the long term forecast is for numerous squalls and fronts are going to plague our route to New York. and there may be more than a few layover days. The decision is made to leave today for the C & D, bypassing Georgetown up the Sassafras River. I had wanted to stop there and visit old friends from 13th Street, in Port Huron. Since I must be in Croton on Hudson by June 1st, 2nd at the latest we pushed on. The first 4 hours were wild, pounding into the surf and rain but as we traveled further North the Bay narrowed and the seas became much smoother til it was like a walk in the park. A long day, 67 miles, 9 Hours.  Bob's first run was sort of a 'trial by fire' introduction to the sturdy little vessel Simpatico.

Delaware City Marina, turn left after leaving the Canal. The Harbor Master had very specific instructions to enter his marina -- "Turn left at buoy 12 leaving it to port no more than 40 ft. away, head directly for the ferry boat until you reach her, then slightly port and continue along the row of boats. to the fuel dock"   He did this with every boat that entered the Marina. Because -- the currents inside are constant all the time one way or another and strong.  Of course the little canal is narrow and shallows opposite his docks He and his team are very competent; and since we were leaving ? in the morn they turned us around to face out which would be against the current for better control.

The marina is just one VERY long dock. and he puts them in 2 ft apart to get the maximum number of boats in there. Not only because he likes the business but there are many boats that need his facility for their departing point for the South run down the Delaware Bay to Cape May.

Another great thing the Harbor Master does is give a weather briefing every evening at 5 pm. It looked good for the next day , but alas, was not to be.  The 26th we wanted to leave but the forecast changed and another storm ran through. So, we wait it out.  All the boaters met on one of the boats after the weather briefing to tell stories and decide if they are going to go the next day. All the boats and crew were fellow "Loopers".

May 27th

We have a good report. 5 knot winds all day and little waves.  The tide started its ebb at 5 am and we were on our way with four other boats at 5:30 am. Caught this beautiful sunrise as we entered the Delaware Bay headed for Cape May.

The passage was very easy, the tide pushing us and the winds light we traveled 50 miles in 5 and a half hours. Over 8.5 knots most of the way. Wonderful!

Entrance to the Cape May Canal

May 28th

Atlantic city was the destination of choice today but seas and winds were still very mild and we were also getting good speed. Going to Arrive at Atlantic City by 10:30 in the morning. Too early to stop, especially with the conditions so perfect.  So we didn't get to stop at the Trump casino Marina. Darn!

Out to the Ocean and the final destination of the day. Barnaget Bay.

As our approach to Barnaget Inlet drew near, we could see breakers inside the jetties. The guides all stated that this inlet is sometimes difficult. I can see why, even on a calm day the waves and tide coming in begin to sort of slosh from one side to the other of the breakwalls.  It's like an agitator washing machine.  So, I was busy and didn't get a picture. Bob was busy too, watching the other boats and calling out the bouys for me.  It was Interesting to say the least -- and this was a calm day!!

It was a long day for us but glad we did it because another storm was predicted for tonight. Time for a Rum and snacks and bit of relaxing, reading.   Supper was cooked in the crockpot  -- beef stew -- then we planned our routes for the next day.  It is amazing how bushed you feel after a passage; the average bedtime has been 9:30 on these passage days since Baltimore. This is the part of the trip I was most apprehensive about. Heard lots of stories about how some folks had to layover 3 or 4 days or more before travelling up the Jersey shore. We have been very fortunate. Hope the it continues.

#38th May 16th - 20th

May 16th


Just look at that sky! ABD!!! We departed Washington around 0900. We fueled up around the corner from the Yacht Club and were on our way to Mt. Vernon.

We were able to just follow the canal in to their wharf. Got lots of "Oooos and Aaaaas!" about Simpatico

Quite an expansive piece of property,
well-groomed cared for.

George and Martha Washington's tomb.  It was a somber site! 

Originally he owned just the center section, added the right wing, then the left. We spent 4 hours touring the Mansion, Blacksmith shop, Distillery, Gardens, Stables, Slave quarters, Kitchen, and the many outbuildings of the estate.

The day seemed long with the stop at Mt Vernon but we found a peaceful anchorage at Fairfield Beach just off the Potomac for the evening.  Settled in around 1830.

May 17th  
Today we were off and running at 0800 to reach the entrance of the Potomac to the Chesapeake Bay.  7 hours later anchored up a little creek just west of the Bay. BUT, this day we had ABD! with absolutely mirror-like mill-pond to travel. We were speaking with a DC bound sailboat from Canada around 1100. when we signed off we were called by the NAVY!  Seems we were about to traverse their 'live-fire' range. They instructed us where to navigate to avoid being "shot at".  Hmmm!

May 18th

Ah! only 33 miles to Solomons, Maryland. The run was a slight bit choppy today due to cross winds but as we proceeded our course became more favorable to the wind direction and Horatio could then settle down.  He does NOT like it when the boat rocks a little.  Zahnisers Marina was very accommodating, beautiful extra clean bath house and laundry, courtesy bikes and competent hands.
After cleaning the boat, doing laundry we got the bikes, toured the museum then headed to the "Tiki Bar"!!

Best Buds sharing!

Horatio is a pretty well traveled little pup! He makes everyone he meets, smile.


We were in search of Maryland Crab Cakes!  Kingfisher Restaurant on Solomons Main Road supposedly has the Best!

Hey, Don, finally!  And you are right! These were the best I've eaten.

There is my crew, Terry and Randy, returning their bikes.

May 19th 

Today is another relatively short day. We were docked in St Michaels by 1445 at Harbor Inn Marina. Cheapest I could find at $1.95 a foot (pretty good, actually) only on Friday night! Saturday night the rate jumped to $3.65!! So one night it is. But, we do get a lovely breakfast with made to order omelets.
We had intended to go to Herrington Harbor on the West shore of the Bay but the ABD and calm seas pushed us to carry on a few more miles. Gives us another day ahead of schedule and we can stay here two nights.  Will anchor out the second!!!

At first glance - - I called out "Look, our first Submarine"! Alas it was just a silt laden barge and tug. Come to find out, they are dredging Baltimore Harbor and bringing the dregs out to the East side of the Bay and building another Island. A big one!

 Captain John Smith the great explorer and cartographer traveled up the Chesapeake in 1608 and charted  all the bays and estuaries.

Mike Smith, an old friend from Metamora Days, who
lives in St. Michael's took us for a tour of the great
Maritime Museum.

Top of lighthouse overlooking this
sheltered harbor.

Later in the afternoon we sat on the top deck overlooking all the activity of this very vibrant harbor. There is a storm brewing and eventually we were chased inside while the Thunder, Lightning and rain pelted for about an hour.  Bernie, the hatch leak is NO More!!

Across the way behind our boat.

So, here we are at the end of the day and we need to go to anchor to avoid the exorbitant dockage rate. The harbormaster, says "Would you stay if I fixed the price?" "Well, maybe" I said, "but I refuse to pay $3.65 a foot with or without breakfast"  Smile! He says, "How about if it is the same?" Well, we get to stay and it does make things so much easier.  The dockmaster really was a nice guy and was very interested and impressed at my endeavor.


May 20th

The Harbor Inn Marina's Breakfast was all and more than we expected. Fruit(fresh). toast, bagels, Old Bay home fries, made-to-order omelets, pancakes, waffles, pastries, 3 juices, coffee, tea etc,etc,etc.
This is provision day so we get around, courtesy shuttle drops us off in town. we decide to do the town first then, groceries.  So, the driver drops us off, we turn around and look what we see, , ,

This lovely old house was the home of Simpatico, everything Italian. The shop is next door for the time being. Of course we went in, spoke with the owner and she explained the renovation project. The braces aren't really pushing it over but holding it in place. Where you would think the braces would be is property owned by someone else and won't allow.  Anyway, she is forging ahead with inside bracing and renovations to this aged historical building. It was once a saloon for the Oyster Watermen in need of grog after a hard day on the water.

a very dog friendly town

and . . . we found the latest version of the same thing!!

#37 May 8th - 15th

May 8th

Having spent 2 days in Norfolk and two days in Old Port Comfort we were ready for a move. Although it was ABD! Clear and Sunny. We knew there were residual effects from the storm. We decided to cast off at 0645 while the winds were still sort of "asleep". Our run to Deltaville is only 46 miles today and proved to be a bit rolly when we got out into the Bay but we moved along at a brisk 8.3 kts.  Actually arrived at 1130. Of course I was handed a dilemma! I had to back stern to the dock while the wind and current played around with Simpatico.
AND, of course, our little boat commands attention wherever she goes and there were more than several people watching as I "performed ".  I should have sold tickets!  All went well and I didn't touch a thing!😌

Tom and Coletta Kataras, on Greeks Folly are here in Deltaville having some work done on their boat before continuing their "Loop". The four of us traveled down the rivers together in 2014. Great folks and it is great to connect with them again. The came to greet us when we arrived.

Bernie was having mixed emotions (at least I hope he was) about leaving the boat. Here is where I change crew yet again. We set to washing the salt crusted residue off the boat and while I cleaned the inside, Bernie attended to and fixed a pesky little leak at the Pilot House roof hatch.  All packed we are awaiting the next contingent to arrive.

Terry and Randy Clark arrived in the late afternoon. Dockmates of ours at 13th street, Port Huron, gave me the heads up about Terry and Randy wishing to fill my crew roster. They, many years ago, at Bridgeview Marina in Sarnia, Ontario were docked behind us on a sailboat named "Hogsbreath". One thing led to another and we made connection. It's really wonderful how our little boating world of friends stays in touch. Thanks, Bob and Helen!
 We made intros all around as Bernie gave Randy the low-down on Simpatico.  Gear was stowed and off we went to a celebratory crew-change supper.

May 9th

Bernie is off to the airport; T and R offered to take him since they are looking for a boat to keep in Florida, they were going to visit marinas along the way back to see what might be available. Did I mention, they presently own a Nordic Tug 32 in Sarnia. Another great reason to crew for me!
The weather is looking a little bleak this day and we are wondering if  tomorrow is going to be a good day to travel.

May 10  The weather has turned bad, with thunderstorms and high winds. No travelling today.

May 11

Ugh!Again!  Nasty, overcast, cold, rain and WIND! So we spend another day at dock, but it was time well spent. Randy checked out the boat and all it's little crevices, oils and fluids.  Even found a a few screws loose!😉😉   The weather cleared a bit in afternoon so we did trip into "town" for incidentals, a stop at a Marine antique/used stuff store, and to the Fish shop. What really took our eye here were the huge mounds of oyster shells around an "old" cemetery.  They sell a LOT of oysters!!  And turns out the cemetery belongs to long time residents/families of the area. Hallowed ground!

May 12

Four days in a marina is quite enough thank you. We decide to have a look at conditions early morn.
0615 just at daybreak, we feel content to continue our journey. This time on to the Potomac River and Washington DC.  The first 5 hours proved to be challenging to catch the seas at the right angle to be relatively comfortable.  We settled into a great rhythm, Horatio being the only occupant that was a little put off by the ride. Once we reached the Potomac 1015 out of the Bay we were relieved to have a smoother way of it with Easterly winds and incoming tide behind us. We traveled 10 hours and anchored close to shore beneath huge cliffs; completely sheltered from the prevailing wind. Rained most of the day reducing to drizzle this evening.  After supper we played some cards for about 10 minutes!! Exhausted from the day we went to bed early.

May 13th

0830 we are underway with overcast skies - still! - but no rain. Boy we sure do get spoiled with ABD's.  the river is calm in spite of a bit of wind and I, personally, am very excited about approaching Washington on the Potomac river. Our nations capital never ceases to stir pride in me.

We passed Mt Vernon, George Washington's home on the Potomac (we will stop for a visit on way back), Old Fort Washington.  Built in 1808 it protected Washington for a little more than 9 years before being demolished by the British in 1814. Before the attack was complete our own garrison blew it up to keep it from the British.  It was subsequently rebuilt beginning just a few months later and has been standing watch for over 200 years. Look it up - quite a history.

Finally the District comes into view.

Its hard for you to see in this picture but the Capital, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial and Lincoln Memorial are  visible.

We arrive at our dock 1530, 7 hours later. Just blocks from the Washington Monument and the Great Mall.  This waterfront area is undergoing vast, reconstruction. Another grand opening due in October of this year.

Huge pedestrian pier being constructed behind us.

Retail, Residential, Office, and commercial space being constructed all up and down the Waterfront

Daughter Terri came in late afternoon to see us.. She lives just 8 miles from here. We had a little refreshment and conversation and took in Jenny's for supper, Chinese, very nice and excellent cuisine. Not your typical carry-out.

May 14th

Finally, ABD!  Terry and Randy were ready to "do" DC by foot at 8:30am.

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 Terri(daughter) and her friend Mary(Orndorff)Troyan , husband Victor and son Archie came for a visit.  They are friends from High School, 4-H Horse days. It was great to see Mary and her family again. Archie her 7 yr old was all over the boat. Seemed to find it fascinating.

 They couldn't stay long as Archie had a hockey game at 10:30. I chided Mary, "Oh, Oh, I see a Hockey Mom in the budding!"
After everyone left, Terri and I just relaxed in the warming sun for a  few before heading out to her house, a few groceries, playing with the dogs and sitting on her patio watching the activity on the lake.

 A very nice peaceful relaxing Mothers Day. She did take me to a very nice restaurant for dinner.
I was back to the boat around 8 pm and Randy and Terry were still out and about. They were full of stories and very impressed with all they observed.

May 15th

ABD!! Crew got a bit of a later start today in their sight seeing but on their way by 10 am. The construction activity is ramping up and I am feverishly trying to get my blog done.  We will probably meet up somewhere for supper and we are hoping to head back down the Potomac tomorrow.