Underway ICW
March 12, 0930 hrs.
The past few days have been hard pushes, moving 10 to 11 hours each day making great distance varying between 60 and 90 miles each day. All has not been without instances; running aground twice (we were able to get off without assistance), one bridge operator who felt it was more important to oblige those sand blasting the bridge as to keeping to a restricted opening schedule (We waited 3 hours past the opening schedule). But all in all things have been good.
A few things we’ve learned along the way:
* Don’t believe the ads in the Cruising Guide - ”Showers” does not mean multiple showers. Nor does it mean modern.
* The word “Marina” is not all ways defined the same way - It can have slips, no slips, or just be a High and Dry.
* ICW travel brings the every present opportunity to run aground - It doesn’t mean you will but with the many inlets coming in across the ICW shoaling is an everyday occurrence, marks are not moved to reflect this. Some very open bodies of very shallow water make crossing these areas an adventure.
* Anchorages are few and sometimes a far distance apart - This makes for some long days (we have made 90 miles and have been averaging over 60).
* Other cruisers are always willing to help - We meet a great couple, Paul and Mary. They are making for Norfolk and have guided us through some of the more difficult spots.
* Modern navigational electronics (chart plotter, laptop, etc) are great aids - But don’t always depend on them, things change quickly. You must stay-up on Local Notice to Mariners.
March 13
We have been in and out of cell range for for the past two. We’ve made great time. Weather has been great. Have only been able to motor sail three times. We should make Hampton Roads by evening. Then it ill be on up the Chesapeake Bay with to stops before Rock Hall. Weather coming in might prevent this… we’ll see.
Tonight will be first night with a hot shower in three days, we’re all looking forward to this. Not much else to stay, just still moving along the ditch.