Sunday, March 29, 2020

The Turning Tides

Now that we're in 8+ foot tides the current is substantial.  As we're moving along all day long it's impossible for us to time our passage to coincide with the rising and falling flow....we're at it's mercy.  We delighted in reaching 8.3 knots as we sailed through Port Royal Sound on a falling tide.  Our speeds against the rising tide are sometimes quite dismal (as little as 2 knots).  We use our sails to assist us along against the current when the wind is obliging.  Overall we're averaging just over 5 knots.
We've had quite a time anchoring due to the tide.  In Morehead City we found ourselves dragging as our anchor chain wrapped around the anchor and lifted it.  Our attempt to use a trip-line in the swamp resulted in our dinghy being entangled and the anchor lifted leaving us adrift again.  The size and position of the tide is crucial information when anchoring for the night in order to put out adequate scope.
While motoring through Beaufort, S.C. amid the roar of the fighter jets over-head, we broke down.  We dropped anchor while Barry repaired a plugged fuel line.
We marveled at the mansions on Hilton Head Island as we drifted around it.


Hilton Head Mansions

Hilton Head Island

Low Tide

We dropped anchor on a breezy, cool night in Bull Creek.  M565.5 just off Calibogue Sound (11 miles north of Georgia).
Much to our delight we're constantly sighting a great abundance of dolphins.
Hilton Head Lighthouse

1 comment:

Rob Smith - Stryder said...

Boy, you guys really timed it right getting out of the mainstream of society during this Covid mess. How are you affected my the self-imposed isolation that the whole World seems to be experiencing? How are the marinas treating you? Again, I see that SeaStar Eh is keeping Barry on his mechanic's toes? Fuel pump, air in the lines or diesel quality? Either of those, I know that Barry won't quit until he has solved any problem. He must spend half his sailing life in that engine compartment. Good on him for his dedication! Keep up with the account of your adventures. Given the pandemic crisis, there may not be much active sailing to be had this summer. Enjoy yours. We are all living vicariously through your narration. A & R.