May Day!

Our original goal was to start our Great Loop Adventure on 1 May, 2018, also known as May Day. We now believe that this is not the best day to start. 

First, the nautical (or aeronautical) term [“MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY!”] refers to a life and/or death situation. We’re not particularly superstitious, but this just seems like inviting trouble. We prefer to avoid trouble. 

Secondly, our setbacks have required additional time to repair and re-privision. (See the last two posts for an inventory of what we needed to replace/repair.) We continue to discover some delayed maintenance items, thus further delaying our start. Today our windlass was serviced, tomorrow (5/1) we get a new shifter cable. We think this is the last of our required/delayed maintenance. 

And the practice continues… I’m getting better at judging the how the boat responds to throttle and rudder inputs, as well as wind influences. We try to maneuver without thrusters, until we must add those to dock. (Quite honestly, I think I’m better than Pete!) 

Our new date is 5 May, Cinco de Mayo, with a favorable weather window, and our early start with a short leg should take us to Chesapeake City. It’s a very small harbor, with a shallow bay. We plan to anchor out and celebrate with a margarita! Maybe we’ll have a repeat meal of Instant Pot Taco Lasagna… it was delicious! 

Yesterday’s highlight was a full moon rising over the harbor. Today’s highlight was a romantic after dinner walk around the harbor and a gorgeous sunset. One could get used to this!