Snug for the Winter

Snug for the Winter

From Morehead City, we caught a favorable current and cruised on into Charleston 34 hours later. After a few days revisiting favorite haunts in Charleston – Tim the butcher, the Saturday Market and a Blues Piano brunch at the Mills House Inn, we headed on out off shore to the St John’s River.  

As we left the protection of the harbor, another boat hailed us offering to stay in touch over night as we both were traveling on the same route.  Since we never saw another boat on our trip from Morehead City into Charleston, it was nice to share the journey with a friendly boat. Even when the trip is uneventful and calm, it is an added comfort to have a comrade's light bobbing along the horizon. We waved good by as our overnite buddies turned south on the ICW. 

Dolphins also kept us company!

We timed our arrival to catch the incoming tide.  This plan would have been perfect but for the unscheduled maintenance closure for the railroad bridge in downtown Jacksonville.  Originally we should have had an opening from 11 to 12:30 but the Coast Guard announced in the wee hours that the bridge would close at 8AM and not reopen until 3PM. By that time, we were already flying with the tide on track for that 11AM opening.  Fortunately, there was a tiny space to wait on the free docks – most of the docks were closed due to damage caused by Matthew.  So, we tied up next to the Jaguar Owner’s yacht and waited for the afternoon opening.  

This did give us a chance for a nap after our overnight. 3 PM was kind of optimistic but eventually the bridge opened and we made our way into The Marina at Ortega Landing – our home for the next several months.  Should Jacksonville be on your travel plans – give us a shout.  Visitors are a welcome break from our “endless” boat chores and the “sociable life” on the docks. 

Frank keeps guard on the stern and is making friends with all the dock walkers.