We have all been home now for a week. It seems like it's been longer since we all went our separate ways.
Mike and I sent a copy of our pictures to Rick and in return Rick has sent us all his pictures. He has been very busy this past week with editing photo's and also with Google map.
Awesome job Rick with mapping not only our journey, but each day and each marina/restaurant we went to.
Thank you again. Can't wait to see the slide show!
To see the video's of NYC skyline, Norfolk, VA and the Crew Interview, please visit the following link: http://rksthoughts.blogspot.com/2010/10/skipper-bobs-video-in-new-york-city.html
Rick, the Zweigle's white hot's (unique to Rochester, NY) we promised are on there way. You must grill these, and wait for them to POP open. They are the best with a little spicy mustard and ketchup. DO NOT BOIL them!
Let us know what you think!
Thank you again to all our family, friends, new friends and followers. It has been awesome to share our journey with you.
Mike and I are always amazed how boating brings together people who's paths would never have otherwised crossed. Those new found friendships/relationships are both amazing and forever lasting.
Our Trip via Gogal Map
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Skipper's Notes - The Road Runner Voyage Home 2010
Geneva, NY (September 21) to Palm city, FL (October 1)
The journey took 10 1/4 days to travel, 1839 miles at an average speed of 17.5 mph or approximately 105 hours of running.
Time, an average of 10 hours per day. The fall trip was approximately 180 miles longer (1 day) then the Spring trip due primarily to less time in the Atlantic and the necessity to use the Delaware and Chesapeake Bay, ICW route.
The Road Runner averaged .8 mile per gallon of diesel fuel and consumed nearly 2200 gallons on the trip. At $3.00 average per gallon, the thirsty vessel costs an average of $3.75 in fuel for each mile traveled or a total of approximately $6,900 in fuel alone to complete the trip or $690 per day average. As the adage says's "A boat is a hole in the water that you keep pouring money into!"
Highlights:
1- The "Crew" Performance:
Mike Ragan - 1st Mate/Chief Engineer/Relief Helmsman - Nickname - Gilligan. He even does windows and washes the boat exterior!
Kim Ragan - Navigator/Blog Editor/Log Keeper, etc - Nickname - Radar Annie. Every crew should be so lucky!
Rick Kreiselman - Relief Navigator/Chief Photographer/Audio and Video Assistant to the Skipper - Nickname - Renegade Rick. Limited Prior Boating experience - Learned fast and filled many gaps!
2- The "Road Runner" - performed almost flawlessly and kept on Cruisin! A Comfortable Home on the Water.
3 - People we met along the way, who went out of their way to help us! Examples:
Jim at the Crescent Boat Club
Frank, Sue and Sue at the Top Rack Marina
Mr P and Sue in Myrtle Beach
4 - The Manhattan Skyline at Night!
5 - The Marina's and Restaurants we visited (and in some cases "discovered")!
6 - The "Blog" - A wonderful way to keep our friends and families informed of our progress and well being! Thanks Kim!
7 - Kim and Mike's Anniversary dinner in Norfolk!
Lowlights:
1 - The Erie Canal - while often offering spectacular scenery, it's predominant 10 mph speed limit makes
it seems endless and tedious!
2 - Lincoln Harbor Marina in NYC - closing it's fuel dock 15 minutes before our arrival - forcing the skipper to slow down to stretch fuel mileage to reach Atlantic City the next day.
3 - The "Pea Soup" fog in NYC preventing good views and photo's of the Statue of Liberty and making
the trip to Cape May much more intense and difficult!
4 - Gilligan gaining additional nickname of "Slow Poke" and "Spend Thrift" while negotiating heavy seas
in the Chesapeake Bay and disturbing the Skippers' rest period.
5 - The early morning departure from Swansboro, NC when poor visibility and conflicting advice from
all three crew members at once caused the skipper to stop the vessel and wait for more daylight to proceed. (Brilliant!)
6 - The heavy rain encountered from Tropical Storm Nicole in the Wilmington and Myrtle Beach area!
7 - The "Big Bump" that Gilligan subjected us to from the wake of a Casino Boat.
8 - Wake warning's from "Heute Teute" marinas in affluent ICW communities, and South Carolina permitting residents to erect "No Wake" signs that are enforceable.
9- A waitress in a C&D Canal Marina restaurant continually referring to our crew as "Youse Guys".
Skipper Bob (Cap'n Bligh) wants to thank Mike, Kim and Rick for making this journey one of the easiest he has ever experienced as Captain of the various Road Runners through the years. As he grows even older and less willing and able to undertake such maritime adventures, he will fondly remember this trip as the most relaxing, due to the crew's competence and abilities, and their constant attention to duty and to assisting the Skipper willingly and pleasantly whenever requested and seemingly enjoying the adventure and experience as much as I did!
Sincerely
Bob Henderson, Skipper
The journey took 10 1/4 days to travel, 1839 miles at an average speed of 17.5 mph or approximately 105 hours of running.
Time, an average of 10 hours per day. The fall trip was approximately 180 miles longer (1 day) then the Spring trip due primarily to less time in the Atlantic and the necessity to use the Delaware and Chesapeake Bay, ICW route.
The Road Runner averaged .8 mile per gallon of diesel fuel and consumed nearly 2200 gallons on the trip. At $3.00 average per gallon, the thirsty vessel costs an average of $3.75 in fuel for each mile traveled or a total of approximately $6,900 in fuel alone to complete the trip or $690 per day average. As the adage says's "A boat is a hole in the water that you keep pouring money into!"
Highlights:
1- The "Crew" Performance:
Mike Ragan - 1st Mate/Chief Engineer/Relief Helmsman - Nickname - Gilligan. He even does windows and washes the boat exterior!
Kim Ragan - Navigator/Blog Editor/Log Keeper, etc - Nickname - Radar Annie. Every crew should be so lucky!
Rick Kreiselman - Relief Navigator/Chief Photographer/Audio and Video Assistant to the Skipper - Nickname - Renegade Rick. Limited Prior Boating experience - Learned fast and filled many gaps!
2- The "Road Runner" - performed almost flawlessly and kept on Cruisin! A Comfortable Home on the Water.
3 - People we met along the way, who went out of their way to help us! Examples:
Jim at the Crescent Boat Club
Frank, Sue and Sue at the Top Rack Marina
Mr P and Sue in Myrtle Beach
4 - The Manhattan Skyline at Night!
5 - The Marina's and Restaurants we visited (and in some cases "discovered")!
6 - The "Blog" - A wonderful way to keep our friends and families informed of our progress and well being! Thanks Kim!
7 - Kim and Mike's Anniversary dinner in Norfolk!
Lowlights:
1 - The Erie Canal - while often offering spectacular scenery, it's predominant 10 mph speed limit makes
it seems endless and tedious!
2 - Lincoln Harbor Marina in NYC - closing it's fuel dock 15 minutes before our arrival - forcing the skipper to slow down to stretch fuel mileage to reach Atlantic City the next day.
3 - The "Pea Soup" fog in NYC preventing good views and photo's of the Statue of Liberty and making
the trip to Cape May much more intense and difficult!
4 - Gilligan gaining additional nickname of "Slow Poke" and "Spend Thrift" while negotiating heavy seas
in the Chesapeake Bay and disturbing the Skippers' rest period.
5 - The early morning departure from Swansboro, NC when poor visibility and conflicting advice from
all three crew members at once caused the skipper to stop the vessel and wait for more daylight to proceed. (Brilliant!)
6 - The heavy rain encountered from Tropical Storm Nicole in the Wilmington and Myrtle Beach area!
7 - The "Big Bump" that Gilligan subjected us to from the wake of a Casino Boat.
8 - Wake warning's from "Heute Teute" marinas in affluent ICW communities, and South Carolina permitting residents to erect "No Wake" signs that are enforceable.
9- A waitress in a C&D Canal Marina restaurant continually referring to our crew as "Youse Guys".
Skipper Bob (Cap'n Bligh) wants to thank Mike, Kim and Rick for making this journey one of the easiest he has ever experienced as Captain of the various Road Runners through the years. As he grows even older and less willing and able to undertake such maritime adventures, he will fondly remember this trip as the most relaxing, due to the crew's competence and abilities, and their constant attention to duty and to assisting the Skipper willingly and pleasantly whenever requested and seemingly enjoying the adventure and experience as much as I did!
Sincerely
Bob Henderson, Skipper
Day 12 - Going Back Home
Yesterday, after arriving at Stuart Fl, Bob showed us around his neighborhood and took us to lunch. It is a beautiful area and everyone we passed knew Bob and were happy of his return.
After lunch, we dropped Bob off at his house and headed back to the boat to give it a good cleaning. After 10 1/4 days of living aboard, it was a little dirty and we wanted to make sure it was nice and clean. Bob is heading back to NY on Monday for one last race at Watkins Glen and didn't want him to worry about having the boat cleaned in case he did decide to put the Roadrunner up for sale this winter.
Soon it was after 5:00, so Mike and I loaded up the car with all of our stuff and headed back to the house. We had promised Bob an Italian dinner tonight and we didn't want him to have to wait till 8 or 9 to eat like it has been.
After a great diner we headed back to the house were Bob played a few video's of two older trips that were taken in the previous Roadrunner. One taking the boat back to Seneca Lake in 2009 and one trip to the Key's. We discovered in watching these video's that there was a common theme with Bob, he likes to live on the edge and take a few chances! We also were able to see the special video that was put together for his 70th birthday.
In the morning we had our coffee and were just about to head down to the docks to take a look at a trawler that was there and also to finish a few last things on the Roadrunner before we left for the airport. Just before we were heading out the door, Bob presented us with his Skippers Notes from the trip that he wanted to have put on the blog. I will be typing that in as a separate post right after Day 12.
At around 11:45 we headed to UPS and the airport. When we arrived at the airport, we said our goodbyes again to Bob and off he went. What a trip!
Our flight went from West Palm Beach to Philly were we had a 2 1/2 hour lay over. We had a couple beers and some dinner and then headed to our gate. We ended up running into parent's of a friend (yes Dan your parents and sister were in Colorodo) and chatted about our adventure.
For this last leg of the trip, Mike and I had first row seats on the plain. I was so excited, we would be the first one's off and I could see all the different controls in the cockpit. Well, as the stuartdess closed the door, the pilot told her that there was to much weight in the front of the plain. She asked us or the other gentlemen who was sitting on the other side, if we would mind having a seat in the back! Mike offered and off we went to the very last row, who knew we would be used as ballast on a plane.
We soon were landing in Rochester, and Mike's mom was there to greet us. Thank you again Mom for picking us up and for taking care of Shadow. As soon as we got home, we played with Shadow for a little bit and went to bed. Our own bed!
Tomorrow, we will just take care of a few things like cutting the grass and getting groceries. Then I think we will just enjoy being home.
After lunch, we dropped Bob off at his house and headed back to the boat to give it a good cleaning. After 10 1/4 days of living aboard, it was a little dirty and we wanted to make sure it was nice and clean. Bob is heading back to NY on Monday for one last race at Watkins Glen and didn't want him to worry about having the boat cleaned in case he did decide to put the Roadrunner up for sale this winter.
Soon it was after 5:00, so Mike and I loaded up the car with all of our stuff and headed back to the house. We had promised Bob an Italian dinner tonight and we didn't want him to have to wait till 8 or 9 to eat like it has been.
After a great diner we headed back to the house were Bob played a few video's of two older trips that were taken in the previous Roadrunner. One taking the boat back to Seneca Lake in 2009 and one trip to the Key's. We discovered in watching these video's that there was a common theme with Bob, he likes to live on the edge and take a few chances! We also were able to see the special video that was put together for his 70th birthday.
In the morning we had our coffee and were just about to head down to the docks to take a look at a trawler that was there and also to finish a few last things on the Roadrunner before we left for the airport. Just before we were heading out the door, Bob presented us with his Skippers Notes from the trip that he wanted to have put on the blog. I will be typing that in as a separate post right after Day 12.
At around 11:45 we headed to UPS and the airport. When we arrived at the airport, we said our goodbyes again to Bob and off he went. What a trip!
Our flight went from West Palm Beach to Philly were we had a 2 1/2 hour lay over. We had a couple beers and some dinner and then headed to our gate. We ended up running into parent's of a friend (yes Dan your parents and sister were in Colorodo) and chatted about our adventure.
For this last leg of the trip, Mike and I had first row seats on the plain. I was so excited, we would be the first one's off and I could see all the different controls in the cockpit. Well, as the stuartdess closed the door, the pilot told her that there was to much weight in the front of the plain. She asked us or the other gentlemen who was sitting on the other side, if we would mind having a seat in the back! Mike offered and off we went to the very last row, who knew we would be used as ballast on a plane.
We soon were landing in Rochester, and Mike's mom was there to greet us. Thank you again Mom for picking us up and for taking care of Shadow. As soon as we got home, we played with Shadow for a little bit and went to bed. Our own bed!
Tomorrow, we will just take care of a few things like cutting the grass and getting groceries. Then I think we will just enjoy being home.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Day 11 - Ft Pierce to Stuart FL, Our Final Destination
We left Ft Pierce at 7:45, a little later then normal, but we only had 30 miles left. Before we knew it Bob was telling us about all the buildings and bridges around us. He was close to home.
At 9:15 we made a turn to the port and there was home. We were met at the dock by Bob's friends, Peter and Stephanie Lutz who helped us tie up and get the power hooked up.
Final numbers for our trip:
Total miles - 1839
Average MPH - 17.4
Gallons Used - 2156
Total Hours on the Engines - 119
Average MPG - 8.5
Total of 10 1/4 Days
What a trip! Mike and I cannot thank Bob enough for his generosity and hospitality. This trip has been such a great experience and just re-enforced the fact that we love boating and are looking forward to obtaining our captains licences in November. We both have learned so much and along the way have met and become friends with two wonderful people.
Thank you Rick for not only your friendship, but for all the photo's.
Soon I will be attaching a slide show of our odyssey and also the video that Bob did of NYC, Norfolk and the final interview of the crew.
Thank you also to all that followed us. We loved all the support and comments.
At 9:15 we made a turn to the port and there was home. We were met at the dock by Bob's friends, Peter and Stephanie Lutz who helped us tie up and get the power hooked up.
Final numbers for our trip:
Total miles - 1839
Average MPH - 17.4
Gallons Used - 2156
Total Hours on the Engines - 119
Average MPG - 8.5
Total of 10 1/4 Days
What a trip! Mike and I cannot thank Bob enough for his generosity and hospitality. This trip has been such a great experience and just re-enforced the fact that we love boating and are looking forward to obtaining our captains licences in November. We both have learned so much and along the way have met and become friends with two wonderful people.
Thank you Rick for not only your friendship, but for all the photo's.
Soon I will be attaching a slide show of our odyssey and also the video that Bob did of NYC, Norfolk and the final interview of the crew.
Thank you also to all that followed us. We loved all the support and comments.
Day 10 - St Augustine to Ft Pierce, FL
We left at 7:15 with a few light sprinkles, but sunshine and it looked like we were going to have a really nice day. It was a slow go at first, with all the houses and marina's along the ICW, but all those that know me, know that slow is good when you can't see the next channel marker!
One thing we learned on this trip is in the south when they say "No Wake" they mean no wake at all. Over the past few day's, both our captain and first mate have been scolded on the radio for going to fast. Bob had 2 and Mike had 2, but don't worry, but the end of the day the tie would be broken.
At 11:00 I booked our flight home for Saturday afternoon. We were not sure of what time we would arrive at Bob's house, and wanted to make sure we gave ourselves enough time to clean the boat and also make it to UPS. I over packed of course and we need to send a few things home via a different method besides US Air.
We passed Daytona around 11:30 and then we were able to get back up on plane, but only 25 mph because of the Manatee's. We also got to pass close to Cape Canaveral and could see both the launch pads and the assemble building. This is were Mike broke the tie with being yelled at. We went down a little cannal following another boat and both were scolded about minimum wake and if they didn't slow down the bridge master would report them. We were going slow, but once again, not slow enought!
At around 2:45 an alarm started going off about water being in one of the drives. Ugh, we had to wake the captian from his nap. Bob got out the manuals and took over the helm while Mike tried to figure out what was going on. He did find it was just a warning and nothing to be to concerned about at the moment. Bob asked for me to get the phone number for the marina were he bought the boat so Mike could talk with the service manager. Once we got a hold of him, he agreed it was nothing to be concerned about and how to disconnect the alarm. Of course, we couldn't find it right away, so every 45 seconds we had to listen to the loud ear piercing noise.
About 20 more miles and it was time to pull into Melbourne and drop off Rick. He had his bestman pick him up and then he was off to see family. It was great getting to know you and really look forward to seeing you again in the future. The rest of the trip will not be the same.
We took a few "crew" photo's and then the three of us were off to Fort Pierce. We wanted to make it as far as we could with the light we had left. I started to look for marina's in that area and found one that was open till 7:00 and had a Boat US discount. Yeah, finally a good find.
It was about 6:45 when we arrived and had a little bit of a problem trying to find the enterance. Because of different hurricanes that have hit this area, they had to change were the channel was due to schoaling. We soon got help over the radio from the marina and we finally were docked.
We stayed at the Ft Pierce City Marina and we were also there just in time to get fuel, so in the morning we will be ready to finish the last 30 miles or so. Mike also was able to find the alarm, yes it was still going off, and finally disconnect it.
For dinner we ate at the Tiki Bar at the marina. It was very casual with all different types of music. Bob wasn't to impressed with the selection, especailly the B-52's (sorry Troy). But we had a nice dinner, laughed a little and had a toast to Rick.
We went a total of 194 miles today and took 198.02 gallons of fuel at $2.82/gallon.
Just one more day of travel.
One thing we learned on this trip is in the south when they say "No Wake" they mean no wake at all. Over the past few day's, both our captain and first mate have been scolded on the radio for going to fast. Bob had 2 and Mike had 2, but don't worry, but the end of the day the tie would be broken.
At 11:00 I booked our flight home for Saturday afternoon. We were not sure of what time we would arrive at Bob's house, and wanted to make sure we gave ourselves enough time to clean the boat and also make it to UPS. I over packed of course and we need to send a few things home via a different method besides US Air.
We passed Daytona around 11:30 and then we were able to get back up on plane, but only 25 mph because of the Manatee's. We also got to pass close to Cape Canaveral and could see both the launch pads and the assemble building. This is were Mike broke the tie with being yelled at. We went down a little cannal following another boat and both were scolded about minimum wake and if they didn't slow down the bridge master would report them. We were going slow, but once again, not slow enought!
At around 2:45 an alarm started going off about water being in one of the drives. Ugh, we had to wake the captian from his nap. Bob got out the manuals and took over the helm while Mike tried to figure out what was going on. He did find it was just a warning and nothing to be to concerned about at the moment. Bob asked for me to get the phone number for the marina were he bought the boat so Mike could talk with the service manager. Once we got a hold of him, he agreed it was nothing to be concerned about and how to disconnect the alarm. Of course, we couldn't find it right away, so every 45 seconds we had to listen to the loud ear piercing noise.
About 20 more miles and it was time to pull into Melbourne and drop off Rick. He had his bestman pick him up and then he was off to see family. It was great getting to know you and really look forward to seeing you again in the future. The rest of the trip will not be the same.
We took a few "crew" photo's and then the three of us were off to Fort Pierce. We wanted to make it as far as we could with the light we had left. I started to look for marina's in that area and found one that was open till 7:00 and had a Boat US discount. Yeah, finally a good find.
It was about 6:45 when we arrived and had a little bit of a problem trying to find the enterance. Because of different hurricanes that have hit this area, they had to change were the channel was due to schoaling. We soon got help over the radio from the marina and we finally were docked.
We stayed at the Ft Pierce City Marina and we were also there just in time to get fuel, so in the morning we will be ready to finish the last 30 miles or so. Mike also was able to find the alarm, yes it was still going off, and finally disconnect it.
For dinner we ate at the Tiki Bar at the marina. It was very casual with all different types of music. Bob wasn't to impressed with the selection, especailly the B-52's (sorry Troy). But we had a nice dinner, laughed a little and had a toast to Rick.
We went a total of 194 miles today and took 198.02 gallons of fuel at $2.82/gallon.
Just one more day of travel.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Day 9 - Hilton Head, SC to St. Augustine, FL
We left Hilton Head hoping for the best with the weather and hoping to make it to Jacksonville or even St Augustine. Mike checked the marine forecast just to make sure the Atlantic hadn't gotten better, Bob would prefer to go outside, but it still was not looking good out there.
Bob stayed at the helm all morning, making great time through Georgia. There isn't much there to see along the ICW, just a lot of swamps and a few nice houses that pop up out of no where. It was just sprinkling a little when we stopped for fuel at 9:30. I had called a lot of different marina's on fuel prices and found that the best one was about a mile off the ICW. Our Captain was not happy, but the prices just kept going up the further we went.
Were we stopped, it was a little rustic to say the least. Bob started questioning the fuel we were putting in, wondering if it was all full of water and/or algae. I was just hoping and praying it was good, because after going up to pay, it was the cheapest, but he also charged 3% for credit card. Ugh, there goes our savings. Bob did request a fuel sample when Mike was almost done filling both tanks, he didn't say anything, so I took that as a good sign.
We took on 200 gallons at $2.93 and then we were off and back on the ICW heading to Florida. The weather continued to be good. Just a few little showers and then a little sun. At 12:30 Mike (aka Gilligan) took over at the helm, and told Bob he would try and make good time! Bob keeps teasing him that he is a slow poke.
The three of us did well navigating, we only had one little hiccup going through a section on the Crooked River. All of a sudden we were loosing depth and we were at a split. We came to a stop and all of a sudden I could see the missing marker laying on top of the water. We got back in the channel and off we went. Soon we were heading right at a military submarine. Very cool, but there were a few patrol boats sitting in front, so we thought it best to keep moving and not stop for photo's.
At round 3:30 we were passing Jacksonville, so we were off to St Augustine. It is only 30 miles more, but as we rounded the corner, we realized it was going to be a slow 30 miles. Florida unlike Georgia, has a lot of houses, very nice houses built on the ICW. Of course, after we were going slow for a little bit, the captain came up to see what the problem was.
We had some good laughs at Mike's expense, but about 10 miles further we were able to get back up on plain and soon we were in St. Augustine. I called around to a few marina's and Bob decided on Camachee Cove Yacht Harbor. It was very nice, with a few mega yachts and a ton of large fishing boats. The marina was open till 7:00, so we were able to fuel up tonight instead of having to find it tomorrow.
As Mike was ready to hand the helm back over to Bob for docking, Bob thought this would be a good time for Mike to dock the boat for the first time. Rick and I handled the fenders and lines, and Mike took a deep breath. He did awesome, got it right up to the dock without a scratch!
Because we were staying for just one night and it was 5:30, we were able to stay right there for the night.
We were very happy that the saying was true about red sky at night. It was a good day and tomorrow looks even better. It looks like we will need to stay on the inside again tomorrow, the waves are expected to build to 7 or 8'. We also will be loosing Rick tomorrow. He get's off in Melbourne, so we are going to a nice dinner tonight as a send off. He will be missed.
We went a total of 216 miles today, so far on the trip we have gone 1613 miles. When we fueled up we took another 202 gallons.
In the morning we will head to Melbourne and then as far as we can before dark. We are thinking that we will make it to Palm City tomorrow afternoon.
Bob stayed at the helm all morning, making great time through Georgia. There isn't much there to see along the ICW, just a lot of swamps and a few nice houses that pop up out of no where. It was just sprinkling a little when we stopped for fuel at 9:30. I had called a lot of different marina's on fuel prices and found that the best one was about a mile off the ICW. Our Captain was not happy, but the prices just kept going up the further we went.
Were we stopped, it was a little rustic to say the least. Bob started questioning the fuel we were putting in, wondering if it was all full of water and/or algae. I was just hoping and praying it was good, because after going up to pay, it was the cheapest, but he also charged 3% for credit card. Ugh, there goes our savings. Bob did request a fuel sample when Mike was almost done filling both tanks, he didn't say anything, so I took that as a good sign.
We took on 200 gallons at $2.93 and then we were off and back on the ICW heading to Florida. The weather continued to be good. Just a few little showers and then a little sun. At 12:30 Mike (aka Gilligan) took over at the helm, and told Bob he would try and make good time! Bob keeps teasing him that he is a slow poke.
The three of us did well navigating, we only had one little hiccup going through a section on the Crooked River. All of a sudden we were loosing depth and we were at a split. We came to a stop and all of a sudden I could see the missing marker laying on top of the water. We got back in the channel and off we went. Soon we were heading right at a military submarine. Very cool, but there were a few patrol boats sitting in front, so we thought it best to keep moving and not stop for photo's.
At round 3:30 we were passing Jacksonville, so we were off to St Augustine. It is only 30 miles more, but as we rounded the corner, we realized it was going to be a slow 30 miles. Florida unlike Georgia, has a lot of houses, very nice houses built on the ICW. Of course, after we were going slow for a little bit, the captain came up to see what the problem was.
We had some good laughs at Mike's expense, but about 10 miles further we were able to get back up on plain and soon we were in St. Augustine. I called around to a few marina's and Bob decided on Camachee Cove Yacht Harbor. It was very nice, with a few mega yachts and a ton of large fishing boats. The marina was open till 7:00, so we were able to fuel up tonight instead of having to find it tomorrow.
As Mike was ready to hand the helm back over to Bob for docking, Bob thought this would be a good time for Mike to dock the boat for the first time. Rick and I handled the fenders and lines, and Mike took a deep breath. He did awesome, got it right up to the dock without a scratch!
Because we were staying for just one night and it was 5:30, we were able to stay right there for the night.
We were very happy that the saying was true about red sky at night. It was a good day and tomorrow looks even better. It looks like we will need to stay on the inside again tomorrow, the waves are expected to build to 7 or 8'. We also will be loosing Rick tomorrow. He get's off in Melbourne, so we are going to a nice dinner tonight as a send off. He will be missed.
We went a total of 216 miles today, so far on the trip we have gone 1613 miles. When we fueled up we took another 202 gallons.
In the morning we will head to Melbourne and then as far as we can before dark. We are thinking that we will make it to Palm City tomorrow afternoon.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Day 8 - Myrtle Beach to Hilton Head SC
The day started a lot nicer this morning, no rain and the forecast looked like the sun was going to shine. We left Myrtle Beach at 7:00 am after the sun started to rise, we wanted to be able to see the markers this morning.
We found out that yesterday the area we were traveling threw had 12" of rain in 24 hours. It was the second highest rain fall in a 24 hour period since hurricane Floyd. So we were really happy that the sun was coming out so we could dry out a little.
Traveling down the ICW in South Carolina was nice and challenging on our way to Hilton Head. We had many dolphins swimming along side the boat, we saw many beautiful houses and many fixer uppers. We had to wait on a couple more swing bridges, but the bridge masters got us right threw.
Captain Bly was at the helm most of the morning. I must have given him a little to much OJ this morning, because all of a sudden he wanted to challenge the boat. He wanted to see if he could get it to 40 mph with the ocean current behind us. We were in an open area, and off we went. He got it to 39 mph, but that was all we could do.
Mike also got kudos from the captain, even though he was a slow poke yesterday, the gas mileage he got was incredible. We fueled up just north of Charlotte at Isle of Palms Marina and took 247 gallons at $2.949, but we got a 5% volume discount. I had called around to about 7 different marina's and it seemed that this one was the best. Of course the captain wasn't thrilled, because I had made a chart mistake yesterday and we went right past the place labeled "cheap fuel" on his chart. It was right at the point were the two chart pages overlap, and also right at a swing bridge. I admitted my mistake and told him I would buy him dinner! After fueling, Bob asked if I could calculate the mpg from yesterday till noon today, Mike averaged .92 mpg...very nice!
At 12:30 Bob went below to see his show and Mike took the helm again. Soon we felt like we were on a road course at Watkins Glen, we had zig zag turns and had to constantly slow down for houses along the ICW that had boats in the water.
We were on track to make it to Hilton Head and started to recognize area's that we had seen when we had visited Mike's Dad in Hilton Head over the past few years. We went across the Edisto River were it looked like the place we had gone crabbing with chicken necks and crab nets. Around 4:00 we were passing Paris Island and soon we could see Hudson's Restaurant, a favorite place for dinner. We arrived at Harbor Town Yacht Basin at 5:30. This is the place that has the red and white striped lighthouse that is on everything you see or buy from Hilton Head. We had dinner at the Crab Shack, it was awesome!
We were able to see a beautiful sunset, and all are hoping that the saying is true, "red sky at night sailors delight". We have heard about the storm brewing at the tip of Florida and hoping it doesn't effect our travel to bad. Bob had wanted to go out in the ocean today and make it to Daytona, but they are expecting 3-5' today building to 5-7' tonight. We will stay on the ICW for at least another day and most likely the rest of the way. Because of this, we haven't booked our air fair yet, we will see how far we get today and book it tonight. We are still hoping we can fly home Saturday, we are having an amazing thime, but we both miss Shadow and would love to wake up in our bed on Sunday morning!
Enjoy the pictures, these are from our photographer Rick.
We found out that yesterday the area we were traveling threw had 12" of rain in 24 hours. It was the second highest rain fall in a 24 hour period since hurricane Floyd. So we were really happy that the sun was coming out so we could dry out a little.
Traveling down the ICW in South Carolina was nice and challenging on our way to Hilton Head. We had many dolphins swimming along side the boat, we saw many beautiful houses and many fixer uppers. We had to wait on a couple more swing bridges, but the bridge masters got us right threw.
Captain Bly was at the helm most of the morning. I must have given him a little to much OJ this morning, because all of a sudden he wanted to challenge the boat. He wanted to see if he could get it to 40 mph with the ocean current behind us. We were in an open area, and off we went. He got it to 39 mph, but that was all we could do.
Mike also got kudos from the captain, even though he was a slow poke yesterday, the gas mileage he got was incredible. We fueled up just north of Charlotte at Isle of Palms Marina and took 247 gallons at $2.949, but we got a 5% volume discount. I had called around to about 7 different marina's and it seemed that this one was the best. Of course the captain wasn't thrilled, because I had made a chart mistake yesterday and we went right past the place labeled "cheap fuel" on his chart. It was right at the point were the two chart pages overlap, and also right at a swing bridge. I admitted my mistake and told him I would buy him dinner! After fueling, Bob asked if I could calculate the mpg from yesterday till noon today, Mike averaged .92 mpg...very nice!
At 12:30 Bob went below to see his show and Mike took the helm again. Soon we felt like we were on a road course at Watkins Glen, we had zig zag turns and had to constantly slow down for houses along the ICW that had boats in the water.
We were on track to make it to Hilton Head and started to recognize area's that we had seen when we had visited Mike's Dad in Hilton Head over the past few years. We went across the Edisto River were it looked like the place we had gone crabbing with chicken necks and crab nets. Around 4:00 we were passing Paris Island and soon we could see Hudson's Restaurant, a favorite place for dinner. We arrived at Harbor Town Yacht Basin at 5:30. This is the place that has the red and white striped lighthouse that is on everything you see or buy from Hilton Head. We had dinner at the Crab Shack, it was awesome!
We were able to see a beautiful sunset, and all are hoping that the saying is true, "red sky at night sailors delight". We have heard about the storm brewing at the tip of Florida and hoping it doesn't effect our travel to bad. Bob had wanted to go out in the ocean today and make it to Daytona, but they are expecting 3-5' today building to 5-7' tonight. We will stay on the ICW for at least another day and most likely the rest of the way. Because of this, we haven't booked our air fair yet, we will see how far we get today and book it tonight. We are still hoping we can fly home Saturday, we are having an amazing thime, but we both miss Shadow and would love to wake up in our bed on Sunday morning!
Enjoy the pictures, these are from our photographer Rick.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Day 7 - Swansboro to Myrtle Beach SC
The day started with us feeling well rested. After enjoying a nice seafood dinner (Rick's choice was great), we got to bed early. We actually got 7 hours of sleep which is good because it was going to be another long day.
We woke up to thunderstorms, good thing the boat is called the Roadrunner, because we would be running trying to get out of the rain all day. We left at 6:30 in the rain and dark - ugh! We couldn't really see any of the markers and Mike, Rick and myself were all trying to give Bob direction. Needless to say we soon were at a stop relying on the skyhook to keep us in one spot. The captain decieded this was a good time for breakfast and the crew had more coffee. We needed a little more light before we tried to navigate the narrow channels in the ICW. After a little bit, a local fishing boat passed us, so off we went. We needed to get to a bridge a few miles away before 7:30 or we would have to sit and wait till 8:00.
As we were approaching, Bob called the bridge and we didn't think we would make it. It was a little foggy and the bridge operator could not see us. Soon we came into view and he radioed back and said he would let us through. We were on our way and we all were thinking the rain would pass and it would be a good day. We made it to the next bridge at 8:45, in time for the 9:00 opening.
Soon, the rain and fog got worse and we were soon running at 10 mph, it was going to be a long day if it didn't clear up. We actually had to turn the generator on because we needed the A/C on to keep the windshield from fogging up. Thank goodness for the hard top, we stayed dry most of the day.
The rain never did lighten up until we were entering Myrtle Beach. At times it was raining so hard we couldn't see anything in front of us. Just like the fog leaving NYC, it was like we were in a white out snow storm. The captain was not pleased with our lack of progress, but was excited with our fuel economy.
By the end of the day we ony went a total of 129 miles...not good progeress, but we only used a quarter tank of fuel. No fill up for us today, that it a first. We are staying at a very nice marina, Marina at Grande Dunes in South Carolina. After we tied up, Mike went up and started some laundry for us and I got some appitizers ready. Rick was able to get a hold of his neighbors from North Carolina who have a condo here. They were close and would be stopping by in a little bit. Mike and I went up to switch the laundry and take showers and when we got back, Mr P and Sue were here getting the tour.
It was great meeting you, and thank you again for giving us a ride to the restrauant and helping Rick get some groceries. Enjoy the rest of your vacation and have a safe trip back home.
It looks like we have 3 or 4 day's left. Tomorrow I will be booking our flight home for Saturday. I can't believe we have been going for 7 day's already.
Sorry for the lack of pictures, we have had limited wi-fi, so I have been using Bob's computer with a broadband card. I have all of Rick's pictures (all 1,000 and counting) and will put a slide show together and attach it soon.
We woke up to thunderstorms, good thing the boat is called the Roadrunner, because we would be running trying to get out of the rain all day. We left at 6:30 in the rain and dark - ugh! We couldn't really see any of the markers and Mike, Rick and myself were all trying to give Bob direction. Needless to say we soon were at a stop relying on the skyhook to keep us in one spot. The captain decieded this was a good time for breakfast and the crew had more coffee. We needed a little more light before we tried to navigate the narrow channels in the ICW. After a little bit, a local fishing boat passed us, so off we went. We needed to get to a bridge a few miles away before 7:30 or we would have to sit and wait till 8:00.
As we were approaching, Bob called the bridge and we didn't think we would make it. It was a little foggy and the bridge operator could not see us. Soon we came into view and he radioed back and said he would let us through. We were on our way and we all were thinking the rain would pass and it would be a good day. We made it to the next bridge at 8:45, in time for the 9:00 opening.
Soon, the rain and fog got worse and we were soon running at 10 mph, it was going to be a long day if it didn't clear up. We actually had to turn the generator on because we needed the A/C on to keep the windshield from fogging up. Thank goodness for the hard top, we stayed dry most of the day.
The rain never did lighten up until we were entering Myrtle Beach. At times it was raining so hard we couldn't see anything in front of us. Just like the fog leaving NYC, it was like we were in a white out snow storm. The captain was not pleased with our lack of progress, but was excited with our fuel economy.
By the end of the day we ony went a total of 129 miles...not good progeress, but we only used a quarter tank of fuel. No fill up for us today, that it a first. We are staying at a very nice marina, Marina at Grande Dunes in South Carolina. After we tied up, Mike went up and started some laundry for us and I got some appitizers ready. Rick was able to get a hold of his neighbors from North Carolina who have a condo here. They were close and would be stopping by in a little bit. Mike and I went up to switch the laundry and take showers and when we got back, Mr P and Sue were here getting the tour.
It was great meeting you, and thank you again for giving us a ride to the restrauant and helping Rick get some groceries. Enjoy the rest of your vacation and have a safe trip back home.
It looks like we have 3 or 4 day's left. Tomorrow I will be booking our flight home for Saturday. I can't believe we have been going for 7 day's already.
Sorry for the lack of pictures, we have had limited wi-fi, so I have been using Bob's computer with a broadband card. I have all of Rick's pictures (all 1,000 and counting) and will put a slide show together and attach it soon.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Day 6 - Norfolk to Swansboro NC
This morning we were up early, the first bridge we needed to pass under only goes up on the hour starting at 6:00. We all were up at 5:00, but the time I was making coffee, Rick was already checking the oil levels in the engine room. Mike helped him out and at 5:40, Mike noticed that the bridge was going up early. Bob contacted the bridge controller and let him know we were one our way. Lines came off the dock quick and we were off in the dark.
Not to far up was a lock that we had to wait for a little bit. When we finally got in, we all thought we were going down because the wall was not very tall. We soon realized that we were going up a whole 2 feet. What a change from the Erie Canal locks, were we were going up or down 15-46 feet.
We had a couple more bridges we had to pass under, but the wait wasn't to bad. At 8:00 Mike took over at the helm, another race (Formula One) in Singapore. Things were going well down the ICW and soon we were in the part called the Alligator River and another bridge was coming. This one looked a little low, and Bob took over so Mike and Rick could decide if we could make it. Well, soon we were in reverse, the radar was going to make it, but the all around light not so much. Bob didn't want to wait for the sail boats that were behind us, so we looked to the port (left), looked to the starboard (right) and Bob decided to go to the port side under another part of the bridge, outside the channel. Well, I kept an eye on the depth gauge while the guys were judging our clearance, soon we were through with 6 inches to spare!
The sun has been in and out but for the most part, but it has been another beautiful day. When Bob was watching the NASCAR race, we had a little rain, but the three crew members were navigating the ICW and making really good progress. Soon we were threw Morehead City, our original destination, but it was too early to quit. Rick was excited because that meant we were moving on to Swansboro, NC were a very restaurant was located, the Ice House. I called ahead and found the Caspers Marina that was open till 6, had diesel fuel and was close to town. We made it here by 5, fueled up and had cocktails in our hands by 5:30.
We took 272 gallons at $2.50 per gallon so we are ready for the morning. The crew got kudos for making such progress, we went a total of 221.3 miles today and had great conditions. Now let's hope Rick's choice of restaurant's is a good one....Bob is not so sure with a name like "Ice House", but we asked the staff at the marina and they gave it a thumbs up. Now let's hope the rain that is forcasted comes after we are back on the boat.
Tomorrow we are off to South Carolina, Hilton Head hopefully, that is were Mike would like to spend the night.
Not to far up was a lock that we had to wait for a little bit. When we finally got in, we all thought we were going down because the wall was not very tall. We soon realized that we were going up a whole 2 feet. What a change from the Erie Canal locks, were we were going up or down 15-46 feet.
We had a couple more bridges we had to pass under, but the wait wasn't to bad. At 8:00 Mike took over at the helm, another race (Formula One) in Singapore. Things were going well down the ICW and soon we were in the part called the Alligator River and another bridge was coming. This one looked a little low, and Bob took over so Mike and Rick could decide if we could make it. Well, soon we were in reverse, the radar was going to make it, but the all around light not so much. Bob didn't want to wait for the sail boats that were behind us, so we looked to the port (left), looked to the starboard (right) and Bob decided to go to the port side under another part of the bridge, outside the channel. Well, I kept an eye on the depth gauge while the guys were judging our clearance, soon we were through with 6 inches to spare!
The sun has been in and out but for the most part, but it has been another beautiful day. When Bob was watching the NASCAR race, we had a little rain, but the three crew members were navigating the ICW and making really good progress. Soon we were threw Morehead City, our original destination, but it was too early to quit. Rick was excited because that meant we were moving on to Swansboro, NC were a very restaurant was located, the Ice House. I called ahead and found the Caspers Marina that was open till 6, had diesel fuel and was close to town. We made it here by 5, fueled up and had cocktails in our hands by 5:30.
We took 272 gallons at $2.50 per gallon so we are ready for the morning. The crew got kudos for making such progress, we went a total of 221.3 miles today and had great conditions. Now let's hope Rick's choice of restaurant's is a good one....Bob is not so sure with a name like "Ice House", but we asked the staff at the marina and they gave it a thumbs up. Now let's hope the rain that is forcasted comes after we are back on the boat.
Tomorrow we are off to South Carolina, Hilton Head hopefully, that is were Mike would like to spend the night.
Day 5 - C&D Canal to Norfolk, VA
Another high mileage day down the Chesapeake Bay. I had no idea how big it was!
We left the marina at 7:00 and headed down the canal and then South into the Chesapeake. Off to the north of us was the Susquanna River, were two of our boating friends are hard at work...we waved Bob to you and Less!
About 20 miles down the bay it was time for fuel again. Bob wanted to make sure I didn't get stressed out again about running low. We stopped at the Tolchester Marina and took on 250 gallons at $3.10/gallon. Bob was not all that happy with the price, but it was not out of our way and every place we were calling that was further south was $3.50 + per gallon. We took on some water and as the guys were taking care of this I chatted with the owner and asked how long it would take to get to Norfolk. He causally said ah about 7-8 hours. That is when I realized how big the bay was. It is 178 miles from the tip of the canal to the inlet leading into Norfolk. For our friends back in Rochester, the Chesapeake is about 2/3 the size of Lake Ontario.
Mike took over the helm at 10:00, it was time for the race in Singapore. The wave and wind progressively got worse as the morning went on. We went from 1-2 footers to 3 -4. Our speed went from 30 to 20 to 10. It was going to be a long day getting to Norfolk.
After the race and a nap, Bob came back to the helm. He was not impressed with the mileage we were getting, .5 mpg. But as we rounded Smith Point it started to calm down and we were able to get back to 25 mph and better gas mileage. Soon we were heading into Norfolk a little more timely.
As we came into Norfolk we entered the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway) and passed by the Naval ship yard. I was amazed how close the channel was to the ships, but it was great for pictures. Bob also got out his video camera and narrated. The crew decided that Bob missed his calling, what a enthusiastic theatrical voice.
Not to far down the ICW it was time to stop for the night. In the spring Bob stayed at the Top Rack Marina and wanted to dock there again. We called ahead and the manager Brian was waiting for us. The marina was not anything you would see back home. We pulled into the fuel dock and fueled up again, twice in one day, ouch! We took 263 gallons at $2.49/gallon and could stay right on the gas dock for the night. Once we were all hooked up and had the daily cocktails flowing, Mike decided it was time to wash the boat, salt water was all over and it was driving him crazy. He did tell Bob though that there was not going to be a 24 hour guaranty, it is suppose to rain tomorrow!
There were only about 10 slips at the Top Rack Marina, but there was a huge building and a very large fork lift. At this marina, once you are done using your boat, the fork lift comes over and lifts it out of the water and places it on a stand. This allows you time to rinse it off and give it a bubble bath and then the fork lift comes back and puts it in the building. The racks in the building I believe were 5 high and they stacked the boats in there for the night. It was awesome and we even saw a 30' Martinque in there, so they can handle some good size boats.
As we were watching all the activity, we met Frank, wife Sue and sister Sue. They also have a SeaRay and were admiring the Roadrunner. We got chatting and Bob invited them onboard for a tour. After their boat was placed in it's rack, they come over and got the tour. We ended up chatting with them for awhile and when I asked if there was a store in walking distance, Frank said no, but he could give me a ride. How nice, because we were running low on water and beer, and we can't have that, Frank drove me to the store for the provisions we needed. I am always amazed how nice the boating community is, no matter were you go. Thanks again Frank, Sue and Sue. It was great meeting you.
There was a nice restaurant at the marina that came highly recommended. So after showers we went up for dinner. Not only was the food great, but if we ate there, the overnight dockage was free! Bob really liked that. We all enjoyed some seafood and a few drinks and then Bob and Rick surprised Mike and I and picked up the tab. It was our 6th anniversary, what a nice way to spend it!
We went a total of 224 miles for the day, averaged 17 mph and because of the rough ride our average mpg dropped to .8.
We left the marina at 7:00 and headed down the canal and then South into the Chesapeake. Off to the north of us was the Susquanna River, were two of our boating friends are hard at work...we waved Bob to you and Less!
About 20 miles down the bay it was time for fuel again. Bob wanted to make sure I didn't get stressed out again about running low. We stopped at the Tolchester Marina and took on 250 gallons at $3.10/gallon. Bob was not all that happy with the price, but it was not out of our way and every place we were calling that was further south was $3.50 + per gallon. We took on some water and as the guys were taking care of this I chatted with the owner and asked how long it would take to get to Norfolk. He causally said ah about 7-8 hours. That is when I realized how big the bay was. It is 178 miles from the tip of the canal to the inlet leading into Norfolk. For our friends back in Rochester, the Chesapeake is about 2/3 the size of Lake Ontario.
Mike took over the helm at 10:00, it was time for the race in Singapore. The wave and wind progressively got worse as the morning went on. We went from 1-2 footers to 3 -4. Our speed went from 30 to 20 to 10. It was going to be a long day getting to Norfolk.
After the race and a nap, Bob came back to the helm. He was not impressed with the mileage we were getting, .5 mpg. But as we rounded Smith Point it started to calm down and we were able to get back to 25 mph and better gas mileage. Soon we were heading into Norfolk a little more timely.
As we came into Norfolk we entered the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway) and passed by the Naval ship yard. I was amazed how close the channel was to the ships, but it was great for pictures. Bob also got out his video camera and narrated. The crew decided that Bob missed his calling, what a enthusiastic theatrical voice.
Not to far down the ICW it was time to stop for the night. In the spring Bob stayed at the Top Rack Marina and wanted to dock there again. We called ahead and the manager Brian was waiting for us. The marina was not anything you would see back home. We pulled into the fuel dock and fueled up again, twice in one day, ouch! We took 263 gallons at $2.49/gallon and could stay right on the gas dock for the night. Once we were all hooked up and had the daily cocktails flowing, Mike decided it was time to wash the boat, salt water was all over and it was driving him crazy. He did tell Bob though that there was not going to be a 24 hour guaranty, it is suppose to rain tomorrow!
There were only about 10 slips at the Top Rack Marina, but there was a huge building and a very large fork lift. At this marina, once you are done using your boat, the fork lift comes over and lifts it out of the water and places it on a stand. This allows you time to rinse it off and give it a bubble bath and then the fork lift comes back and puts it in the building. The racks in the building I believe were 5 high and they stacked the boats in there for the night. It was awesome and we even saw a 30' Martinque in there, so they can handle some good size boats.
As we were watching all the activity, we met Frank, wife Sue and sister Sue. They also have a SeaRay and were admiring the Roadrunner. We got chatting and Bob invited them onboard for a tour. After their boat was placed in it's rack, they come over and got the tour. We ended up chatting with them for awhile and when I asked if there was a store in walking distance, Frank said no, but he could give me a ride. How nice, because we were running low on water and beer, and we can't have that, Frank drove me to the store for the provisions we needed. I am always amazed how nice the boating community is, no matter were you go. Thanks again Frank, Sue and Sue. It was great meeting you.
There was a nice restaurant at the marina that came highly recommended. So after showers we went up for dinner. Not only was the food great, but if we ate there, the overnight dockage was free! Bob really liked that. We all enjoyed some seafood and a few drinks and then Bob and Rick surprised Mike and I and picked up the tab. It was our 6th anniversary, what a nice way to spend it!
We went a total of 224 miles for the day, averaged 17 mph and because of the rough ride our average mpg dropped to .8.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Day 4 - NYC to C&D Cannal
What a day...a very long day!
We left NYC at 6:30 with a good forcast. We were expecting 2-3 foot waves, but fog...not expecting that. Leaving NYC harbor wasn't bad, we could see the Statue of Liberty, but not a good "photo opp" with the heavy fog. Out the channel we went, dodging the ferry's and we were on our way to Atlantic City.
As we got further out into the Atlantic Ocean, the fog got worse. Thank goodness for radar, that was the only thing that was telling us of any objects ahead. For most of the morning, we had less then a eighth of a mile visability, felt like we were in a white out snow storm.
After a couple hours, we were starting to get concerned with fuel and not sure if we would be able to make it to Atlantic City. Bob was in a gambling mood this morning with thoughts we could make it to Atlantice City, and the marina I choose closed the fuel dock at 5 pm the night before, so it was all my fault...isn't that always the case!
Well needless to say, we had to drop from 30 mph (.9 miles per gallon) to about 8 mph (2 miles per gallon) to make sure we could make it to Atlantic City....it took a couple extra hours, but we made it.
We got to Atlantic City at 12:00 and took 300 gallons of fuel at $2.89/gallon....yes we were a little low on fuel. As we left the gas dock, Mike was at the helm...you know what time it was...Young and the Restless, and we were headed to Norfolk, VA.
As we headed back out into the Atlantic, the fog was lifting, we could actually see what was in front of us. The wave's were still about 2 feet and things were going well. Captian Bly took over from Mike (no nickname yet) and asked us for the ocean forcast for Saturday. After much research and phone calls we decided it would be best to turn into the Deleware Bay at the Cape May Canal. We were going to go the "long" way to Norfolk because the ocean forcast for tonight and tomorrow was not looking that great.
At 2:15 we were pulling into the canal and realized that the tide was out....a little shallow to say the least. After a little bit of concern, we continued into the canal and made it safely into the Delaware River. I thought it would be a good time to make lunch, but I was wrong. At 3:30, after making a few sandwiches, I came up to find that the captain had decided to go back into the ocean and head to Ocean City, MD. The Atlantice was not bad when we jumped into Cape May just a half hour before, but the winds had picked up and as we were making our way back out, the waves were building and we were pounding. Bob was down below watching the NASCAR qualifiers and after a few hard "bumps" the crew decided at 4:10 we had enough and turned the boat around and headed back to the Delaware River...of course with Bob's OK, he was boucing off the seat down below.
We lost a little bit of time, having to double back, but it was the right decision. After getting up into the river, the waves calmed down and we were on our way to the Chesapeake Canal which will put us into the Chesapeake Bay and down to Norfork.
At 7:00 we pulled into the Summit North Marina on the canal. I thought I got this one right, they are a 24 hour marina, they charged only $2.00 per foot for dockage and they had a restaurant. Well, after pulling in and going right to the gas dock, I realized that I assumed to much with the open 24 hours. The gas dock closed at 6...and like NYC didn't open till 8 am. But it was getting dark and everyone was ready to stop for the night.
As Mike washed down the boat because of all the salt spray, I walked around the marina to find the office and check out the facilities. Rick was on sunset duty, it was another beautiful sunset with the full moon. When I got back to the boat, the guys were chatting and having a few cocktails. We went to dinner around 8 at the only restaurant close by.
It is now almost midnight and all 3 guys are down below trying to get the TV/recorder, and who knows what else to work. Not sure what is wrong, but it sounds like they are making progress. As for me I am exausted. We went a total of 245 miles for the day, and will get up in the morning and head to Norkolk, VA.
I hope to post pictures tomorrow. It is just really late and I am heading to bed. 5:00 comes early. Oh, and we chagned my nick name to Scout, the other just didn't fit, not sure if this one will either.
We left NYC at 6:30 with a good forcast. We were expecting 2-3 foot waves, but fog...not expecting that. Leaving NYC harbor wasn't bad, we could see the Statue of Liberty, but not a good "photo opp" with the heavy fog. Out the channel we went, dodging the ferry's and we were on our way to Atlantic City.
As we got further out into the Atlantic Ocean, the fog got worse. Thank goodness for radar, that was the only thing that was telling us of any objects ahead. For most of the morning, we had less then a eighth of a mile visability, felt like we were in a white out snow storm.
After a couple hours, we were starting to get concerned with fuel and not sure if we would be able to make it to Atlantic City. Bob was in a gambling mood this morning with thoughts we could make it to Atlantice City, and the marina I choose closed the fuel dock at 5 pm the night before, so it was all my fault...isn't that always the case!
Well needless to say, we had to drop from 30 mph (.9 miles per gallon) to about 8 mph (2 miles per gallon) to make sure we could make it to Atlantic City....it took a couple extra hours, but we made it.
We got to Atlantic City at 12:00 and took 300 gallons of fuel at $2.89/gallon....yes we were a little low on fuel. As we left the gas dock, Mike was at the helm...you know what time it was...Young and the Restless, and we were headed to Norfolk, VA.
As we headed back out into the Atlantic, the fog was lifting, we could actually see what was in front of us. The wave's were still about 2 feet and things were going well. Captian Bly took over from Mike (no nickname yet) and asked us for the ocean forcast for Saturday. After much research and phone calls we decided it would be best to turn into the Deleware Bay at the Cape May Canal. We were going to go the "long" way to Norfolk because the ocean forcast for tonight and tomorrow was not looking that great.
At 2:15 we were pulling into the canal and realized that the tide was out....a little shallow to say the least. After a little bit of concern, we continued into the canal and made it safely into the Delaware River. I thought it would be a good time to make lunch, but I was wrong. At 3:30, after making a few sandwiches, I came up to find that the captain had decided to go back into the ocean and head to Ocean City, MD. The Atlantice was not bad when we jumped into Cape May just a half hour before, but the winds had picked up and as we were making our way back out, the waves were building and we were pounding. Bob was down below watching the NASCAR qualifiers and after a few hard "bumps" the crew decided at 4:10 we had enough and turned the boat around and headed back to the Delaware River...of course with Bob's OK, he was boucing off the seat down below.
We lost a little bit of time, having to double back, but it was the right decision. After getting up into the river, the waves calmed down and we were on our way to the Chesapeake Canal which will put us into the Chesapeake Bay and down to Norfork.
At 7:00 we pulled into the Summit North Marina on the canal. I thought I got this one right, they are a 24 hour marina, they charged only $2.00 per foot for dockage and they had a restaurant. Well, after pulling in and going right to the gas dock, I realized that I assumed to much with the open 24 hours. The gas dock closed at 6...and like NYC didn't open till 8 am. But it was getting dark and everyone was ready to stop for the night.
As Mike washed down the boat because of all the salt spray, I walked around the marina to find the office and check out the facilities. Rick was on sunset duty, it was another beautiful sunset with the full moon. When I got back to the boat, the guys were chatting and having a few cocktails. We went to dinner around 8 at the only restaurant close by.
It is now almost midnight and all 3 guys are down below trying to get the TV/recorder, and who knows what else to work. Not sure what is wrong, but it sounds like they are making progress. As for me I am exausted. We went a total of 245 miles for the day, and will get up in the morning and head to Norkolk, VA.
I hope to post pictures tomorrow. It is just really late and I am heading to bed. 5:00 comes early. Oh, and we chagned my nick name to Scout, the other just didn't fit, not sure if this one will either.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Day 3 - Crescent NY to NYC
This morning we left the Boat Club at 6:50, after an amazing sun rise, to make it to the first lock by 7:00. We had 6 more locks to go with the first 5 being one right after the other. They are called the Waterford Flight and they take you down into the Hudson River, these locks drop a total of 150 feet. This is the largest drops in the shortest distance not only on the Erie Canal but in the world. Once out we had one lock left, the Federal Lock, then we were free to go on our way.
We stopped at the Albany Yacht Club for fuel before heading to NYC. We took on 175 gallons @ $3.24 per gallon and we were on our way.
Bob decided early that it was my day to get a nick name, so after much thought he decided on Radar Annie! I guess Mike is up tomorrow.
Along the Hudson we saw so many things. Of course my favorite sites were all the lighthouses that were the markers for the channel. I lost count how many we passed. At noon Mike was at the helm and was given very specific instructions to make up all the time we lost yesterday, I mentioned he better be careful or his nickname would be "Turtle"! He stepped it up and ended up passing many boats of all different shapes and sizes.
We passed many famous places that are on the Hudson, West Point, Sing Sing Prison and some very large mansions. Soon we had the NYC skyline in sight and it was time to make our plans for the night. I found one marina in a magazine that had a view of the Empire State Building, I had let Bob know that was the place, but after calling and finding out it was $3.00 per foot, I was told to find something else. Luck was on my side today because the river was getting rough and I was having a hard time finding another marina. As I looked off to my starboard side, there it was...Lincoln Harbor Marina with the Empire State Building right across from it. Bob said to call and before I knew it he was pulling in. The view is amazing, but the docks are a little, well, rocky. With all the traffic on the river, all the boats are rocking from side to side, sometimes very violently. But Mike and Rick got us all tied up and I think we will be fine, just hope non of us fall out of bed tonight.
We went a total of 157 miles today and are looking to make it to Atlantic City for fuel in the morning and then on as far as we can.
We stopped at the Albany Yacht Club for fuel before heading to NYC. We took on 175 gallons @ $3.24 per gallon and we were on our way.
Bob decided early that it was my day to get a nick name, so after much thought he decided on Radar Annie! I guess Mike is up tomorrow.
Along the Hudson we saw so many things. Of course my favorite sites were all the lighthouses that were the markers for the channel. I lost count how many we passed. At noon Mike was at the helm and was given very specific instructions to make up all the time we lost yesterday, I mentioned he better be careful or his nickname would be "Turtle"! He stepped it up and ended up passing many boats of all different shapes and sizes.
We passed many famous places that are on the Hudson, West Point, Sing Sing Prison and some very large mansions. Soon we had the NYC skyline in sight and it was time to make our plans for the night. I found one marina in a magazine that had a view of the Empire State Building, I had let Bob know that was the place, but after calling and finding out it was $3.00 per foot, I was told to find something else. Luck was on my side today because the river was getting rough and I was having a hard time finding another marina. As I looked off to my starboard side, there it was...Lincoln Harbor Marina with the Empire State Building right across from it. Bob said to call and before I knew it he was pulling in. The view is amazing, but the docks are a little, well, rocky. With all the traffic on the river, all the boats are rocking from side to side, sometimes very violently. But Mike and Rick got us all tied up and I think we will be fine, just hope non of us fall out of bed tonight.
We went a total of 157 miles today and are looking to make it to Atlantic City for fuel in the morning and then on as far as we can.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Day 2 - Rome to the Town of Crescent
This morning we were up early to make sure we were at the first lock by 7:00 am. As we left Rome, the sun was just starting to come up. This revealed the "good" and "bad" window washing from the day before by Mike and Rick. Captain Bly(aka Bob) was very impressed that I found a husband that could do windows. Rick on the other hand not so much....until we realized that it was Mike's job on the inside that was bad! It was a good laugh to start the morning. I had to crawl up on the dash and finish the job.
As we came up to the first lock of the day, I was very happy to hear that it was only 10 miles out. As the navigator, it is my job to determine what time we needed to leave to be at the lock on time. The resources I had only had approximate times and Bob was holding me to my word. Phew...past my first real test:)
We got to Lock 20 at 7:05 and our goal for the day was to make it to Lock 6 by 3:30. This would put us in the Hudson River by 5:00 and closer to Bob's hope of being in NYC by Thursday morning. The day was filled with a lot of laughs and direction from our captain. One lock we went through was the tallest lock on the Erie Canal system (40 foot drop) and one of the tallest in the world. (See the attached pictures)
Rick, who earned the nickname Renegade, held many jobs. His main focus besides handling the bow during the locks was to make the 6 CD changer work. It was near the end of the day, but he got it working (but don't ask how...he doesn't know!)
We all shared the responsbility of looking out for hazards and obstacles that we needed to slow down for. Mike took over as captain while Bob had lunch and watched his daily dose of the "Young and the Restless". Between navigating, helping on the stern for locks, and making lunch, I was also busy most of the day. As we got farther East, we realized that the leaves were already changing on the tree's, fall is on it's way!
As we got closer to 3:30, we realized that we were going to come up short of our goal. We were not going to make it to Lock 6 by 3:30. It was now time to start looking for a place to spend the night. After calling a few places and asking the lock master at Lock 7, we decided to stay at the Crescent Boat Club. We were met at the dock by 4 guys from the "club" who helped us dock and told us all about the Club. One gentleman, Jim Young took specail care of us. After a couple cocktails and some converstation on the dock, Jim took us to his house for some stainless steel hardware, that had rattled loose from the Roadrunner's trunk hinges. Then he drove us to dinner, to the Klam Steam Tavern. After a good dinner he brought us back to the club/marina and bought us a night cap. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality!
We went a total of 110 miles for the day and used 112 gallons of fuel. In the morning we only have a short distance, 3 miles, to make it to the next lock, which should have us in the Hudson by mid morning.
As we came up to the first lock of the day, I was very happy to hear that it was only 10 miles out. As the navigator, it is my job to determine what time we needed to leave to be at the lock on time. The resources I had only had approximate times and Bob was holding me to my word. Phew...past my first real test:)
We got to Lock 20 at 7:05 and our goal for the day was to make it to Lock 6 by 3:30. This would put us in the Hudson River by 5:00 and closer to Bob's hope of being in NYC by Thursday morning. The day was filled with a lot of laughs and direction from our captain. One lock we went through was the tallest lock on the Erie Canal system (40 foot drop) and one of the tallest in the world. (See the attached pictures)
Rick, who earned the nickname Renegade, held many jobs. His main focus besides handling the bow during the locks was to make the 6 CD changer work. It was near the end of the day, but he got it working (but don't ask how...he doesn't know!)
We all shared the responsbility of looking out for hazards and obstacles that we needed to slow down for. Mike took over as captain while Bob had lunch and watched his daily dose of the "Young and the Restless". Between navigating, helping on the stern for locks, and making lunch, I was also busy most of the day. As we got farther East, we realized that the leaves were already changing on the tree's, fall is on it's way!
As we got closer to 3:30, we realized that we were going to come up short of our goal. We were not going to make it to Lock 6 by 3:30. It was now time to start looking for a place to spend the night. After calling a few places and asking the lock master at Lock 7, we decided to stay at the Crescent Boat Club. We were met at the dock by 4 guys from the "club" who helped us dock and told us all about the Club. One gentleman, Jim Young took specail care of us. After a couple cocktails and some converstation on the dock, Jim took us to his house for some stainless steel hardware, that had rattled loose from the Roadrunner's trunk hinges. Then he drove us to dinner, to the Klam Steam Tavern. After a good dinner he brought us back to the club/marina and bought us a night cap. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality!
We went a total of 110 miles for the day and used 112 gallons of fuel. In the morning we only have a short distance, 3 miles, to make it to the next lock, which should have us in the Hudson by mid morning.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Day 1 - Seneca Lake to Rome NY
Our first day went well. Rick spent the night on the boat so we met him first thing this morning. When Mike and I left home this morning, it was in the 40's, so it was really nice of Rick to have the heat on when we arrived. (Thank you Bob Haak for dropping us off this morning!)
Once we loaded everything and Bob arrived we were off on our trip. We left the Barrett Marine at 7:07 am and went North up the Seneca River. Waterloo was our first lock, Rick and I went up to the bow, it was his first time locking. Mike took the stern and we made it through with no problems.
In Seneca Falls, there are two locks, one exiting into the other. Very cool and I will post pictures hopefully tomorrow. The Seneca Canal drops us into the Erie Canal in the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. We were very lucky and got to see 2 bald eagles, one juvenile and one adult.
We got fuel in Brewerton, 201.5 gallons @ $2.899 per gallon at the Winter Harbor Marina. I don't think you can get diesel fuel that cheap on the road.
We made it to Rome before the locks closed for the night. They are only open this time of year from 7-5. We went a total of 104 miles, averaging 11.2 mph. We had to stop early because the next lock was not near a towm. We are tied up to one of the canal walls, and will be walking to dinner shortly.
Tomorrow we will be getting up early so we can make it to the next lock by 7 am. Not sure how far that is, and with my responsbility being the navigtor, I need to find that out.
Once we loaded everything and Bob arrived we were off on our trip. We left the Barrett Marine at 7:07 am and went North up the Seneca River. Waterloo was our first lock, Rick and I went up to the bow, it was his first time locking. Mike took the stern and we made it through with no problems.
In Seneca Falls, there are two locks, one exiting into the other. Very cool and I will post pictures hopefully tomorrow. The Seneca Canal drops us into the Erie Canal in the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. We were very lucky and got to see 2 bald eagles, one juvenile and one adult.
We got fuel in Brewerton, 201.5 gallons @ $2.899 per gallon at the Winter Harbor Marina. I don't think you can get diesel fuel that cheap on the road.
We made it to Rome before the locks closed for the night. They are only open this time of year from 7-5. We went a total of 104 miles, averaging 11.2 mph. We had to stop early because the next lock was not near a towm. We are tied up to one of the canal walls, and will be walking to dinner shortly.
Tomorrow we will be getting up early so we can make it to the next lock by 7 am. Not sure how far that is, and with my responsbility being the navigtor, I need to find that out.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Final Preperations
We are packed and ready for the morning.
For those interested in what the boat looks like, I have attached a picture from SeaRay.com.
Details of the boat: 2009, SeaRay Sundancer 430, LOA 47 1/2, 14' Beam, Twin Cummins Diesels with Zeus pod drives.
Tomorrow night we post our first day down the Erie Canal and will be attaching many pictures.
For those interested in what the boat looks like, I have attached a picture from SeaRay.com.
Details of the boat: 2009, SeaRay Sundancer 430, LOA 47 1/2, 14' Beam, Twin Cummins Diesels with Zeus pod drives.
Tomorrow night we post our first day down the Erie Canal and will be attaching many pictures.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Last Weekend Before We Go
Busy weekend ahead of us to get ready for our trip. Tonight we are staying home and having a nice home cooked meal. It has been a long time since we have been home on a Friday night. We usually head right to the boat every Friday night after work and enjoy a sub from Wegmans. Tonight warm food and start packing...it could take me awhile.
Tomorrow we will head to Sodus to finish winterizing our boat and say good bye to our friends. Some we will not see until next spring when the boating season starts again.
Sunday we will go grocery shopping for the trip and then have dinner with Mike's mom. Her birthday is while we are gone so we want to celebrate that before we go. She is also staying with Shadow the entire time we are gone....Thank you Mom!
Tomorrow we will head to Sodus to finish winterizing our boat and say good bye to our friends. Some we will not see until next spring when the boating season starts again.
Sunday we will go grocery shopping for the trip and then have dinner with Mike's mom. Her birthday is while we are gone so we want to celebrate that before we go. She is also staying with Shadow the entire time we are gone....Thank you Mom!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Getting Ready
We will be leaving in just under a week. Mike and I are busy getting things done around the house and at work. Tonight I will start my list's, one for the food we need to buy, one for the clothes we want to take and one for the "extra" stuff we just can't be without. We don't want to forget anything! Good thing there is UPS to ship it all home when we get to our destination.
I spoke with Bob yesterday and he let us know that there will be a forth person traveling with us. Rick will be flying into Rochester on Monday, from I believe North Carolina. Mike and I look forward to meeting him.
With the news of the 4th person, Bob is giving up the main stateroom to Mike and I. WOW!
The extended forcast is looking good so far for our departure. Tuesday and Wednesday, sunny and high 60's, sounds like perfect weather for traveling down the Erie Canal to the Husdon River.
I spoke with Bob yesterday and he let us know that there will be a forth person traveling with us. Rick will be flying into Rochester on Monday, from I believe North Carolina. Mike and I look forward to meeting him.
With the news of the 4th person, Bob is giving up the main stateroom to Mike and I. WOW!
The extended forcast is looking good so far for our departure. Tuesday and Wednesday, sunny and high 60's, sounds like perfect weather for traveling down the Erie Canal to the Husdon River.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Our Trip
Mike and I have the opportunity to assist moving the Roadrunner from Seneca Lake to West Palm Beach Florida. The Roadrunner, a 46' SeaRay, is owned by our captian, Bob Henderson. We hope you enjoy following along on our journey down the east coast. We will be departing, September 21, 2010.
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