The charter season is over for Independence and we are madly getting ready for our passage north to Bermuda and then Newport, Rhode Island. Our last charter was on June 2nd. It was the perfect way to end the season, sunshine, ten to fifteen knots of breeze so great sailing, crystal clear waters and no swells in our favorite anchorages for awesome snorkeling and repeat guests who were up for the adventure.
We ended the day at the boat yard in the Lagoon, the adventure was running aground in the channel a hundred yards from the dock! Not to worry ... A cell phone call to Pieter who was waiting for us, and all was well. He directed us to back off and go around the unmarked shallow spot and after a little engine maneuvering we were off and proceeded to the dock! We waved good bye to the Hollidays - they have promised to come back soon - and started on the transformation from day sailor to offshore cruising boat. Snorkel gear off, Aries steering vane on - not to mention rigging checks, oil changes - and let's not forget provisioning ... It will all get done!
Ray, first rate mate for the season, has lots of plans for the summer including getting his captain's license but has promised to keep in touch and just maybe he will be back aboard Independence when we start chartering again in November.
Our plan is to leave here on June 12th or 14th (never start a voyage on the 13th!!) and it will take us about a week to get to Bermuda. I will update the log from there and again once we reach Newport. Keep your fingers crossed for a gentle and quiet hurricane season for everyone.
Have a great summer! - Pat and Pieter
No comments:
Post a Comment