OCTOBER 27TH, 2008
Gale warnings have been forecast for tomorrow. So we must find a more protected place to hang out. We also need to work our way south since we only have a few more days on the Bay.
In N.W. winds at 15 - 25 knots we sailed south and turned into the Choptank. We headed up Harris Creek but the land is low (not offering much shelter) and it is nearly impossible to get close to shore due to the shallows.
We finally anchored in Waterhole Cove. It was fairly open but at least we had some space around us in case we dragged anchor.
28.8 NM
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
DAY # 102 - FISHING CREEK TO COX CREEK (EASTERN BAY)
OCTOBER 26TH, 2008
We woke to a beautiful, clear, sunny, calm day. What a drastic change.
We headed north on the Bay passing countless fish traps in the shallows.
33.4 NM
We woke to a beautiful, clear, sunny, calm day. What a drastic change.
We headed north on the Bay passing countless fish traps in the shallows.
33.4 NM
DAY # 101 - FISHING CREEK (EASTERN SHORE)
OCTOBER 25TH, 2008
Today the wind is blowing out of the south at 20 - 30+ knots. There is significant chop even in our protected anchorage.
So we just hung on our hook for the day. Sorry, no photos - we didn't even want to take the camera outside in the weather.
Today the wind is blowing out of the south at 20 - 30+ knots. There is significant chop even in our protected anchorage.
So we just hung on our hook for the day. Sorry, no photos - we didn't even want to take the camera outside in the weather.
DAY #100 - FISHING BAY, VIRGINIA TO FISHING CREEK, MARYLAND (EASTERN SHORE - LITTLE CHOPTANK)
OCTOBER 24TH, 2008
The day started with another beautiful sunrise.
We were up early in hopes of using the east wind to cover a significant distance back up the Bay. It seems that this time of year the wind is out of the north the majority of the time.
As we traveled along the west side of the Bay we passed a couple of old lighthouses that are now automated.
Finally, well after dark, we turned into the Little Choptank River. We had our fingers crossed while hoping that we would not wrap a crap pot line on our prop in the dark.
75.8 NM
The day started with another beautiful sunrise.
We were up early in hopes of using the east wind to cover a significant distance back up the Bay. It seems that this time of year the wind is out of the north the majority of the time.
As we traveled along the west side of the Bay we passed a couple of old lighthouses that are now automated.
Finally, well after dark, we turned into the Little Choptank River. We had our fingers crossed while hoping that we would not wrap a crap pot line on our prop in the dark.
75.8 NM
DAY #99 - MYER CREEK TO FISHING BAY, PIANKATANK RIVER
OCTOBER 23RD, 2008
Winds were supposed to be NE @ 10 - 15. So it is time to start making some progress back up the Bay. However, after a nice sail down the Rappahannock River, we found the winds to be only about 8 - 10 knots and the chop that had developed yesterday was still rolling down the Bay. Our boat requires about 12 knots of wind to sail effectively into a chop so we gave up on the idea of heading north. Instead we turned south and sailed into the Piankatank River and anchored inside the hook forming Fishing Bay.
The anchorage was perfect. We were protected from the wind and waves but we still had grand views towards the west and the sunset.
Perhaps we should just keep going south like everyone else was doing.
26.2 NM
Winds were supposed to be NE @ 10 - 15. So it is time to start making some progress back up the Bay. However, after a nice sail down the Rappahannock River, we found the winds to be only about 8 - 10 knots and the chop that had developed yesterday was still rolling down the Bay. Our boat requires about 12 knots of wind to sail effectively into a chop so we gave up on the idea of heading north. Instead we turned south and sailed into the Piankatank River and anchored inside the hook forming Fishing Bay.
The anchorage was perfect. We were protected from the wind and waves but we still had grand views towards the west and the sunset.
Perhaps we should just keep going south like everyone else was doing.
26.2 NM
DAY #98 - MYER CREEK
OCTOBER 22, 2008
The wind was blowing out of the north at 20 - 30 knots so we decided to stay in our snug, sheltered spot just inside Myer Creek. If we had not listened to the VHF radio we would never have guessed how windy it was on the outside.
The crisp, cool, clear morning produced a very pretty sunrise.
The sunset was also pretty.
The wind was blowing out of the north at 20 - 30 knots so we decided to stay in our snug, sheltered spot just inside Myer Creek. If we had not listened to the VHF radio we would never have guessed how windy it was on the outside.
The crisp, cool, clear morning produced a very pretty sunrise.
The sunset was also pretty.
DAY #97 - E. BRANCH OF CORROTOMAN RIVER TO MYER CREEK
OCTOBER 21ST, 2008
We motored the short distance over to Myer Creek. Not wishing to use the trial and error approach to entering the creek we anchored just inside the mouth of the creek.
We loaded up the dinghy and went into Myer Creek to visit our friends Dave and Diane who were having their "music night" tonight. They have an Allied Seabreeze which is very similar to our Cape Dory 36. They are lucky enough to have a beautiful piece of fairly secluded waterfront property on the creek with their house hidden in the woods.
Their love of sailing and life on the water was even in evidence in the construction of their house.
Aside from Dave and Diane at least eight other muscians showed up and a good time was had by all.
2.9 NM
We motored the short distance over to Myer Creek. Not wishing to use the trial and error approach to entering the creek we anchored just inside the mouth of the creek.
We loaded up the dinghy and went into Myer Creek to visit our friends Dave and Diane who were having their "music night" tonight. They have an Allied Seabreeze which is very similar to our Cape Dory 36. They are lucky enough to have a beautiful piece of fairly secluded waterfront property on the creek with their house hidden in the woods.
Their love of sailing and life on the water was even in evidence in the construction of their house.
Aside from Dave and Diane at least eight other muscians showed up and a good time was had by all.
2.9 NM
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
DAY #96 - E. BRANCH OF CORROTOMAN RIVER (OUT & BACK)
OCTOBER 20TH, 2008
The night was cold so we slept late in our cozy cabin. We woke to an eerie sight. The surface of the warmer water was steaming in the cold morning. It reminded us that Halloween is on the way.
Another building out of the past. Perhaps somebody's cabin on the water when there was not the abundance of modern luxury waterfront homes.
The Canadian Geese were soaking up the sun on the beach before beginning their activities of the day.
We had originally decided to sail down to the next river south on the Bay (the Piankatank River), however, once we got out in the open we realized there was insufficient wind so we just sailed around the Rappahannock River until the wind totally died and then returned to the Eastern Branch of the Corrotoman River. The seagull that we had fed the evening before soon reappeared thinking that there were going to be daily handouts.
The creek was flat calm as the sun set.
16.2 NM
The night was cold so we slept late in our cozy cabin. We woke to an eerie sight. The surface of the warmer water was steaming in the cold morning. It reminded us that Halloween is on the way.
Another building out of the past. Perhaps somebody's cabin on the water when there was not the abundance of modern luxury waterfront homes.
The Canadian Geese were soaking up the sun on the beach before beginning their activities of the day.
We had originally decided to sail down to the next river south on the Bay (the Piankatank River), however, once we got out in the open we realized there was insufficient wind so we just sailed around the Rappahannock River until the wind totally died and then returned to the Eastern Branch of the Corrotoman River. The seagull that we had fed the evening before soon reappeared thinking that there were going to be daily handouts.
The creek was flat calm as the sun set.
16.2 NM
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
DAY #95 - CARTER CREEK TO EASTERN BRANCH OF CORROTOMAN RIVER
OCTOBER 19TH, 2008
It is still blowing like stink on the outside but we would like to move a little so today we will explore sheltered Carter Creek and the Corrotoman River.
We noticed that some people had bamboo growing even this far north.
We passed many assorted styles of houses, both new and old.
This old barn is evidence of a past and different way of life on the creek.
We wondered what kind of stories this old boat had to tell.
There were not many boats out on the Rappahannock even though it was fairly sheltered.
We decided to also explore Myers Creek, where some friends live. However, when we ran aground, we decided that more in depth local knowledge would be required. On the way out we spotted a fellow Cape Dory (Maggie Rose).
We anchored for the night in the totally calm Eastern Branch of the Corrotoman River.
11.2 NM
It is still blowing like stink on the outside but we would like to move a little so today we will explore sheltered Carter Creek and the Corrotoman River.
We noticed that some people had bamboo growing even this far north.
We passed many assorted styles of houses, both new and old.
This old barn is evidence of a past and different way of life on the creek.
We wondered what kind of stories this old boat had to tell.
There were not many boats out on the Rappahannock even though it was fairly sheltered.
We decided to also explore Myers Creek, where some friends live. However, when we ran aground, we decided that more in depth local knowledge would be required. On the way out we spotted a fellow Cape Dory (Maggie Rose).
We anchored for the night in the totally calm Eastern Branch of the Corrotoman River.
11.2 NM
DAY #94 - ONANCOCK CREEK - EASTERN BRANCH OF CARTER CREEK (RAPPAHANNOCK AREA)
OCTOBER 18TH, 2008
We woke to the wind whistling through the rigging at 15 - 25 knots. We were securely anchored with our Rocna anchor behind the sand dunes at the entrance of Onancock Creek, however, they did little to stop the wind. The wind was predicted to increase to 20 - 30 knots and remain that way for at least two days. We decided that we would prefer a little more shelter so we decided to cross the Bay to the Rappahannock River area. That would be a reach and board reach which would be manageable with a reduced sail area. With a double reefed main (should have triple reefed) and staysail we crossed the Bay averaging 7 - 8+ knots. Boy, what a ride. As the wind increased to 30+ knots the seas became high and steep. This turned out to be one of the rare times that Sharon was not a happy camper. The water smoothed out as we entered the Rappahannock River but the wind was still blowing 15 - 30 knots so it made for a nice beat up river to the shelter of Carter Creek.
We anchored in the Eastern Branch of Carter Creek. There was barely a ripple on the water and there was just a mild breeze. The creek was a little more populated than what we usually like but the peace and quite was pleasant. Included are some photos of what a typical lower Chesapeake Bay creek looks like.
35.9 NM
We woke to the wind whistling through the rigging at 15 - 25 knots. We were securely anchored with our Rocna anchor behind the sand dunes at the entrance of Onancock Creek, however, they did little to stop the wind. The wind was predicted to increase to 20 - 30 knots and remain that way for at least two days. We decided that we would prefer a little more shelter so we decided to cross the Bay to the Rappahannock River area. That would be a reach and board reach which would be manageable with a reduced sail area. With a double reefed main (should have triple reefed) and staysail we crossed the Bay averaging 7 - 8+ knots. Boy, what a ride. As the wind increased to 30+ knots the seas became high and steep. This turned out to be one of the rare times that Sharon was not a happy camper. The water smoothed out as we entered the Rappahannock River but the wind was still blowing 15 - 30 knots so it made for a nice beat up river to the shelter of Carter Creek.
We anchored in the Eastern Branch of Carter Creek. There was barely a ripple on the water and there was just a mild breeze. The creek was a little more populated than what we usually like but the peace and quite was pleasant. Included are some photos of what a typical lower Chesapeake Bay creek looks like.
35.9 NM
DAY #93 - MILL CREEK TO ONANCOCK, VIRGINIA (EASTERN SHORE)
OCTOBER 17TH, 2008
Today we woke to rain and the smell of anchovies. It turns out that the north wind was blowing the smell of the Fleeton menhaden fish processing plant our way. Since we both like anchovies we were soon craving pizza with anchovies and a pitcher of ale for breakfast.
We set out midday when we thought the rain had cleared. Instead of rolling down the Bay on a run we changed our plans and headed on a reach across the Bay to Onancock Creek. Unfortunately, it rained off and on the entire time. At least we had a good sail. We anchored just inside Ware Point. It turned out to be a very protected and possibly picturesque anchorage even though the winds were whistling across the dunes of the point. If it had not been raining it would have been a near perfect anchorage. Sorry - no photos due to wind and rain.
26.1 NM
Today we woke to rain and the smell of anchovies. It turns out that the north wind was blowing the smell of the Fleeton menhaden fish processing plant our way. Since we both like anchovies we were soon craving pizza with anchovies and a pitcher of ale for breakfast.
We set out midday when we thought the rain had cleared. Instead of rolling down the Bay on a run we changed our plans and headed on a reach across the Bay to Onancock Creek. Unfortunately, it rained off and on the entire time. At least we had a good sail. We anchored just inside Ware Point. It turned out to be a very protected and possibly picturesque anchorage even though the winds were whistling across the dunes of the point. If it had not been raining it would have been a near perfect anchorage. Sorry - no photos due to wind and rain.
26.1 NM
Friday, October 17, 2008
DAY #92 - SOLOMONS TO MILL CREEK, VIRGINIA (WICOMICO AREA)
OCTOBER 16TH, 2008
Having reprovisioned, it was time to head back out to enjoy our last two weeks on the water this season. We decided to explore the southern Chesapeake since we had never been there.
There was minimal if any wind so we motored south and passed a couple of old lighthouses.
As we turned into the Wicomico River area we found ourselves dodging fish traps and strange looking fishing vessels. There were schools of fish everywhere.
We anchored in Mill Creek. We had the pleasant surprise of finding another Cape Dory 36 ("Assurance") anchored nearby, however, no one was on board at the time.
42 NM
Having reprovisioned, it was time to head back out to enjoy our last two weeks on the water this season. We decided to explore the southern Chesapeake since we had never been there.
There was minimal if any wind so we motored south and passed a couple of old lighthouses.
As we turned into the Wicomico River area we found ourselves dodging fish traps and strange looking fishing vessels. There were schools of fish everywhere.
We anchored in Mill Creek. We had the pleasant surprise of finding another Cape Dory 36 ("Assurance") anchored nearby, however, no one was on board at the time.
42 NM
DAY # 91 - BACK CREEK TO ZAHNISERS YACHTING CENTER (SOLOMONS)
OCTOBER 15TH, 2008
Today we hauled our anchor and headed over to our home marina. The day was spent reprovisioning and doing minor engine maintenance. We were happy to find that our vehicle still started right up after sitting idle while we were away.
1.1 NM
Today we hauled our anchor and headed over to our home marina. The day was spent reprovisioning and doing minor engine maintenance. We were happy to find that our vehicle still started right up after sitting idle while we were away.
1.1 NM
DAY #90 - LITTLE CHOPTANK RIVER TO BACK CREEK (SOLOMONS)
OCTOBER 14TH, 2008
We woke to a very still morning with a hint of fog over the water. The stillness was only broken by the distant Canadian Geese and an occasional crab line boat slowly motoring by.
Towards late morning a nice breeze came up and we sailed out of the Little Choptank, and down the Bay towards the Patuxent River. As the sun set we motored into Solomons and anchored in Back Creek. The entire harbor was packed with anchored cruising boats who were migrating south.
37.2 NM
We woke to a very still morning with a hint of fog over the water. The stillness was only broken by the distant Canadian Geese and an occasional crab line boat slowly motoring by.
Towards late morning a nice breeze came up and we sailed out of the Little Choptank, and down the Bay towards the Patuxent River. As the sun set we motored into Solomons and anchored in Back Creek. The entire harbor was packed with anchored cruising boats who were migrating south.
37.2 NM
DAY #89 - FLATTY COVE TO LITTLE CHOPTANK RIVER
OCTOBER 13TH, 2008
Flatty Cove turned out to be a nice anchorage with minimal traffic and pretty surroundings.
We woke to a bright sunny day with light wind, so as we sailed out of the Choptank we passed many sailing vessels working their way home after the holiday weekend.
We explored and anchored in the Little Choptank River. The low lying and sparsely populated area was very attractive and we had excellent views of the sunset from our anchorage.
25.9 NM
Flatty Cove turned out to be a nice anchorage with minimal traffic and pretty surroundings.
We woke to a bright sunny day with light wind, so as we sailed out of the Choptank we passed many sailing vessels working their way home after the holiday weekend.
We explored and anchored in the Little Choptank River. The low lying and sparsely populated area was very attractive and we had excellent views of the sunset from our anchorage.
25.9 NM
Monday, October 13, 2008
DAY #88 - CRAB ALLEY BAY TO FLATTY COVE (OFF THE TRED AVON RIVER)
OCTOBER 12TH, 2008
We woke to another glassy smooth morning. The shore had patches of fog in the low lying areas.
Despite it being a Sunday on a holiday weekend (Columbus Day), the crab line boats were out early in full force.
It was another light air day so we ghosted down the Bay and into the Choptank. Finally in the dark we motored into the Tred Avon River and anchored in Flatty Cove.
36.4 NM
We woke to another glassy smooth morning. The shore had patches of fog in the low lying areas.
Despite it being a Sunday on a holiday weekend (Columbus Day), the crab line boats were out early in full force.
It was another light air day so we ghosted down the Bay and into the Choptank. Finally in the dark we motored into the Tred Avon River and anchored in Flatty Cove.
36.4 NM
DAY #87 - STILL POND TO CRAB ALLEY BAY (MID EASTERN SHORE)
OCTOBER 11TH, 2008
Once again we had the pleasure of being able to sail off the anchor and head down the Bay with a northerly wind behind us. Once we reached the Rock Hall and Annapolis area the Bay was covered with hundreds of boats of all sizes. We we lucky enough to pass close to "Mystic".
It is always impressive to pass under the twin bridges linking the Washington, D.C./Anapolis areas to the Eastern Shore.
As the sun was setting we turned up Eastern Bay and finally Crab Alley Bay where we anchored.
37.3 NM
Once again we had the pleasure of being able to sail off the anchor and head down the Bay with a northerly wind behind us. Once we reached the Rock Hall and Annapolis area the Bay was covered with hundreds of boats of all sizes. We we lucky enough to pass close to "Mystic".
It is always impressive to pass under the twin bridges linking the Washington, D.C./Anapolis areas to the Eastern Shore.
As the sun was setting we turned up Eastern Bay and finally Crab Alley Bay where we anchored.
37.3 NM
DAY #86 - BOHEMIA RIVER TO STILL POND (UPPER CHESAPEAKE BAY)
OCTOBER 10TH, 2008
After watching a beautiful sunrise we bathed in the fresh water of the upper Chesapeake Bay. This was refreshing although not as cold as the waters of the north where we spent the summer.
We sailed off the anchor and set off down the Bay in light air. We stayed outside the shipping channels as they are very busy with ships and barges going through the C&D Canal. It was very pleasant to be able to glide along thorough the smooth water in light air with no particular destination. We were now free to go where the wind blows, now that we were back on our home waters with time to spare.
As evening approached we found ourselves opposite Still Pond so that is where we dropped the hook. We anchored in a spot where we would have good views of the sunset and the commercial vessels passing the the shipping channel.
13.4 NM
After watching a beautiful sunrise we bathed in the fresh water of the upper Chesapeake Bay. This was refreshing although not as cold as the waters of the north where we spent the summer.
We sailed off the anchor and set off down the Bay in light air. We stayed outside the shipping channels as they are very busy with ships and barges going through the C&D Canal. It was very pleasant to be able to glide along thorough the smooth water in light air with no particular destination. We were now free to go where the wind blows, now that we were back on our home waters with time to spare.
As evening approached we found ourselves opposite Still Pond so that is where we dropped the hook. We anchored in a spot where we would have good views of the sunset and the commercial vessels passing the the shipping channel.
13.4 NM
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