Day 86 - 97/793 Statutory Miles: Week Home/ Georgetown, SC

Before leaving Charleston, we made a trip back home to check on things, take care of Dr. visits and most importantly get another "friend fix".  We've been spoiled for the last couple of weeks...

What a week we had too:  starting off with the Taste of Beaufort entertained by our favorite Zydeco band; Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellreaisers

Super high energy entertainment!  In the crowd, we met an incredible lady, 80 years young, sporting a walker and O2, lead the Mardi Gras parade and danced the night away.  She reminded us once again that age and exuberance for life is a state of mind and not body.

Hard to imagine that this could be topped, Saturday was spent celebrating Paula's 50th with the crew.  Never a shortage of laughs & lies and a new appreciation for "I don't like big buts".

Monday, brought a celebration of our 31st wedding anniversary.  Look how far these young kids have come...

Thursday:  Daytona for the day.  Walking the jetty @ Ponce inlet and meandering the docks @ Halifax. Enjoyed our unplanned visit with the James', which was great fun hearing about all their adventures on the water.  (Bob - let me know if you find any typo's). Made me more anxious to get moving again.   Wrapping up the day getting our "Bourque fix" was dinner with Fran & Peg at The Grind.  Again, no shortage of lies and laughs.  

I'm not sure how we have it so good to be blessed with such a collection of awesome people in our lives, but I wouldn't trade it for the anything.

Wrapping up the week was an early morning Kayak on the Silver River on Friday before heading to St. Augustine for the weekend with the Adams' to see Jeff Beck & ZZ Top; who put on an amazing show.  Jeff Beck accompanied by Jimmy Hall were a real treat to see live & ZZ Top simply rocked the house.  It is true, rock-n-roll never dies!

Riddle me this...... Who will our kids be going to see 20 years from now that are as legendary as these guys?  Justin Bieber???? 

With the week done. We head back to Charleston, catch some more time with Mr. & Mrs. Middleton, turn the key and head to Georgetown, SC

Click here to see all the pictures from our week home, Taste of Beaufort & St. Augustine

Charleston to Georgetown:

Watch:     Christine 

Distance:  57.8nm

Time:       6h 38m

Navigation notes:  Ben Sawyer Bridge to Isle of Palms. MM 121 - 116 need to be passed a couple hours either side of low tide.

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Left Charleston around 10:30am trying to time our passage between Ben Sawyer Bridge and Isle of Palm, where significant shoaling has been reported, trying to give ourselves some extra water yet arrive in Georgetown at a reasonable hour.  The tides right now are not very cooperative, with low tide @ 9:30am and high tide @ 3:38.  

The view leaving Charleston was pretty spectacular - looking back from the water to the Battery and Waterfront Park area and passing Ft. Sumter.

Making our way into Cooper River from Charleston Harbor, brought some pretty thin water with our depth finder reading 4.7 and 5.0 several times.  This was with almost 2 feet of help from the tide. Slow and steady was the word of the hour.

Once past Isle of Palm, we had lots of water and made for one of the most enjoyable and relaxing days on the water. The scenery also seemed different today.  The tall sweet grass has been replaced by shorter types of seagrass and the pine and palm trees have been replaced by Pine with a few deciduous trees sprinkled in.  The elevation across the horizon is being determined by the height of the trees popping up here and there in the expansive marshes.  Several places along the way today were completely lined in pines, which was just gorgeous.  We had lots of dolphin company on today's trip, which was a pleasant surprise, it had been a while since we've seen them while underway - even a few taking advantage of our wake. 

Georgetown, SC is a cute little fishing town, the marinas are mainly along Front Street, the main street in historic Georgetown, surrounded by fabulous neighborhoods and tree covered streets.  It reminded us both a lot of Vero Beach.  There are several paper mills in town with one being at the top of the harbor.  Fortunately, while we were here, there was no smell. 

In the category of necessity is the mother of invention.  Check out this short video of how we fueled up in Georgetown.

Shortly after our arrival, a gentleman came up and asked us how long we've had our North Pacific and had we ever met Trevor. This surprised us both, since most people ask us what it is instead.  He said his name was Tom Coleman and my jaw damn near dropped to the ground.  You see, when we went to Annapolis and "discovered" North Pacific and decided to buy the GS, it was Tom & Beth's  boat that was at the show.  We spent hours on their boat and ultimately it was after talking with Tom, Beth & Trevor - GS was conceived. What a small world once again. 

Click here to see all of our pictures of Georgetown and the ride from Charleston to Georgetown

Wedding Week!

" To our family.  It is great to gather with you once again in this time of celebration. To our friends you are the family we choose and we choose you!  It means everything to have you join us tonite!  To Andrew and Jessica having someone to share life's good times is just fun. Having someone to share life's challenges is a blessing.  We are all thrilled that you have found both in each other. "

Needless to say it was not just another week on the the Gypsy Soul.  Our daughter has a new last name and Becky and I have a new member of our family. Welcome aboard Andrew!!! And once again our family and friends ruled the day!  We are still living living in the glow of the week and it is because of ya'll!  

What a week we had.

Starting the week off with an amazing lobster & clam feast courtesy of the Adams'

A.W. Shucks

Holy City Brewery

Walking food tour of Charleston on Wednesday with John,Paula,Gary,Kathy,Emily & Joe. That  wrapped up at Holy City Brewery and Taco's at Taco Boy where they have the most amazing pineapple infused Tequila

Roof of the 225 Grill was the scene of the festivities for Thursday where we picked up Jeff & Barbara, Valerie & Alex, Denise & Dale and Felicia & Stewart.

Friday brought a celebration of the nifty 50 club.....

and the rehearsal dinner @ Waters Edge with the Middleton's & Bridal Party followed by more celebrating on the roof of the Vendue.  Joining the celebration today were Fran & Peg, Collette & Will, Rich & Linda, Jim & Sue and Erin & Mick. 
Now that the gangs all here - How about a wedding!  
























Saturday morning brought torrential rain and high winds until about 1pm when the rain stopped and a little bit of sun made its way to us.  As the bride & groom made their way to the "get away car", there was a bolt of lightening, a crack of thunder and the skies opened up once again.  Perfect ending to a perfect day.  Beautiful ceremony, and an amazing good time with friends and family (new and old)  



Now it's time to put our feet up an
d catch up on some needed rest.

Link to wedding week photos ===> https://plus.google.com/photos/114727171873674970750/albums/6143315719054638849?authkey=CJaKscfy9tWdGw

Check back often as I get more pix I'll add them to the album.

Hanging out in Charleston

WOW!!!

What a great time we are having on this extended stay in Charleston.  It is now wedding week and I thought I'd do a pre-wedding update.

We have really been able to explore this great city.  Since landing here on March 30th - we have logged over 100 miles walking and over 25 miles of biking.

Morning jog along waterfront

Late night visit to Kaminski's:

Biked the Ravenel Bridge:
2.5 miles each way.  Can I just tell you that the ride from Charleston to Mt.Pleasant is a lot more gradual than the ride back from Mt. Pleasant to Charleston (which kicked my butt)

Historical Houses and their pristine gardens

However, the best part of being here these few weeks is having been able to spend relaxed, quality time with our #1 Girl and her guy preparing for the wedding festivities.

Making Wedding Favors

I Spy.....

Dinner at Pane E Vino

Chilaxing on the Fly

Taking in a Hockey game

Link to pix for Mobile users ==> here

Day 52 - 85/ 727 Statutory Miles: Charleston, SC

Our Route from Lady's Island, SC to Charleston, SC

Watts Cut

We weren't sure if we would make Charleston in one day.  Not because of the distance, but because of the timing of the tides.  There are two areas along this route that were a concern.  Ashepoo - Coosaw Cutoff (East & West) and Watt's Cut.  We were most worried about Watts Cut.  All of the charts indicated less than 5 feet at low tide, and low tide was ~ 12:30pm.  We got up at the butt crack of dawn and were on our way just before 7am, which put us at Ashepoo about 1 hour into low tide and Watts cut @ 3 hours into low tide giving us + 2.5 ft, which was just enough to get through.  We have the depth alarm set for 5ft and it went off about a dozen times just toward the end of Watts Cut. From here on it was supposed to be ok regardless of the tide.

A few hours later we passed by John's Island and some kayaking spots that we have only arrived at by land;

Beach we've Kayaked to with Jess & Andrew a few times

Where the Florida crew launched from August 2014.

Just before Charleston Harbor, you pass through Elliots cut where you get your first view of the city.

About 1/2 way through our day we started to hear radio chatter about a "derelict" sailboat adrift, unmanned in the Ashley river in front of the marina.  As you pass under the bridge, the marina is just across the river and to the left.  We expected to see some commotion with this drifting boat to add to our docking experience, but the coast guard had dealt with it a few minutes earlier.  As the marina directed us to our slip; they confirmed our desire for a starboard tie-up. Then the conversation went something like this;

• Marina:  "Captain, do you have stern thrusters?"
• Captain:  "Yes stern & bow thrusters."
• Marina:  "Oh Good!"
• Marina:  "Come behind the Megadock, the long T-dock facing the river.  About 1/2 way down, it will open up, spin around and back down the alley.  You will pass a large yellow hull sport fish and a 47' Nordhaven.  You will see us waving at you - just back in between the two boats."

We are 43 feet the space that Captain flawlessly tucked the GS into is about 53'. 

We were also greeted by 2 volunteer dockhands; Mr. Middleton & the future Mrs. Middleton to assist with the lines. Later the same evening, they showed up with the most spectacular dinner for the two weary travelers.  Homemade lasagna, salad, bread, a bottle of wine and desert.  What a treat - Thanks guys!

So happy to be here for 6 weeks!

Day 48 - 52/660 Statutory Miles: Beaufort - SC

Short trip of 28 miles from Hilton Head Island to Beaufort took about 3 1/2 hours and afforded us a leisurely start to the day. Crossing Port Royal Sound and passing by Parris Island were among the highlights of the passage.  Port Royal Sound was about 1 1/2 miles across with so few navigational aids it required utilizing compass readings to properly line up with what buoys there were as well as the the opening of the Beaufort River. There is a heavy military presence in this part of South Carolina.

Beaufort was a mile and half walk across the Wood Memorial Bridge.  This is the first swing bridge that we have encountered, and although we didn't need an opening, from the back of the GS at the marina we had a front row seat to those who did.  This bridge was also the same bridge that Forest Gump ran across when he "decided to go for a run" along with several other Beaufort landmarks that appeared in the movie.

We stayed at Lady Island Marina on the recommendation of one of our boating neighbors from Halifax and we were glad we did!  Location is perfect; 1 mile to the east is groceries and a drug store and 1 1/2 miles to the east is downtown Beaufort.  This is just the kind of place that we really like:  a little "crunchy", but clean and full of good people.  This is definitely going to make our top 5 list.

Dockside restaurant is at the top of the docks and the Fillin station is 100 yards to the right of us.  We were highly advised to try the Fillin station for their Thursday night special fried pork chops, corn, green bean & mac and cheese.  Can you feel your arteries clogging??. Cash only and you pay up front - but I guarantee you won't leave hungry.

Jess & Andrew paid us a visit on Saturday - it was so nice, to sit and just kabitz with them.  After strolling through downtown, we had a bite to eat at Dockside. Food was really good, the staff made it so fun and we were in good company

I think we were photo bombed!

Yep we were, and here is the culprit

Sunday was kind of laid back, not much going on and it was so cold outside!  I'm wondering when Spring is going to get to us.  I think we keep out running it. 

Tomorrow we are off to Charleston.  Could be a 2 day trip if we don't time a couple of difficult areas properly, so we are going to give it our best shot and hope we don't touch bottom and we can get there in one day instead of two.

Mobile link to pix

Day 41 - 48/ 632 Statutory Miles: Hilton head

 

Isle of Hope to Hilton Head was all virgin water for the GS. It was a gorgeous day and we finally got to ride topside, which hasn't happened for a while.  We decided to head to HH a day early since the weather reports were calling for the winds to pick up on Wednesday.  Well, there were no winds which meant there were plenty of no-seeums.  "Off" does nothing to deter those little buggers, but Fuentes takes care of them, no problem.  Mr. B had to take one for the team and smoke a cigar @ 8:30 in the morning. 

Trip was largely uneventful with the exception of passing through Fields Cut at low tide.  This brought some "no talking" moments when we saw 4.2 ft on the depth finder - thank goodness the bottom here is nice soft mud. Notes have been made on the chart to take this at mid to high tide on the return trip.  

Hilton Head Yacht Basin is pretty nice!  The dock hand met us in a small boston whaler and escorted us to our slip.  After getting us checked in he asked "red or white" and handed me a complimentary bottle of wine.  Very nice touch! 

The marina is in the middle of Harbour Town with easy access to the restaurants, shops & bars.  Lots of good people watching; Friday we had a wedding about 50' from the boat and Saturday was "pre-prom".  Check out the pictures of the guys showing up on their center console boat in their tuxedos.

Woke up Wednesday morning and it was not only sunny but warm enough to enjoy our morning cup-o- joe on the fly for the first time in a really long time. Good  call coming a day early, even though it was sunny - there were some pretty high gusty winds.  I never realized how windy the south was until the last few years since having the GS.

Sea pines has miles of bike paths, so we took advantage of the sunny (or not rainy) days  to pull the bikes out;

• Day 1 - 13 miles, 2 bars, 2 beaches and a grocery store covered. 

• Day 2 - Sea Pines Forest Preserve - a great walk in the woods on real dirt & mud, not a paved path.  Its a great walk over rice dikes, 2 freshwater lakes and several alligators.

• Day 3 - Rich & Linda joined us for the weekend and we biked to the Salty Dog, the neighborhoods and to the Stoney-Baynard Ruins, which are the remnants of an antebellum plantation home built 1793-1810 by Captain John "Saucy Jack" Stoney. The original house was 1885 square feet, built of timber and tabby; a mixture of oyster shells, lime, and sand. There is a pix of the tabby which is pretty amazing, simple, yet so strong and to last so many years. 

The golf course @ Harbour Town is preparing for the Heritage tournament the week after Easter, so there was lot of activity getting the stadium seating and the VIP tents - it was fun to see it in process.

We concluded the day with the best steak dinner @ Santa Fe!  Great food, atmosphere was terrific & you couldn't beat the company. Thank you guys! 

Day 4 - the farthest ride yet ~ 16 miles - lunch at one end of the island (Salty Dog) and desert at the opposite end (Caligny Plaza) 

Seems like when Mother Nature gives us a couple of nice days she balances them out with a few rainy ones... Thursday brought a gentle all day which equaled laundry done, boat cleaned and a walk in the rain (which is one of my favorite things) to the newly built club house at Harbour Town - it's quite impressive. 

Sunday's rain afforded us a tour by Blue of some surrounding areas; by car none the less and dinner aboard the GS. 

HHI has been a great stop on the trip.  Next stop Beaufort, SC - and I get to see my #1 girl on Saturday :-)

Mobil link to Pix

Day 34-40 / 606 Statutory Miles: Isle of Hope (Savannah)

Left St.Simon at the crack of dawn - day looked clear, right until we ran into a solid bank of fog.  this lasted for over an hour with near 0 visibility.  When it would clear for a half hour, just to make you think you were done with it, it was back again.  In and out of the fog until almost noon. Thank god for radar and a great captain.  At one point, Den thought he saw something on the radar (the blips swapped places), a few minutes later out of the fog, comes a silent sailboat.  It was unnerving to say the least.

Once the fog cleared, the rest of the ride was uneventful, including passing through Little Mud River, which we needed to hit on a rising tide to have enough water.

Planning paid off! 

Total ride took just over 7 hours, by the time we pulled into Isle of Hope Marina.  This is the same marina that we stayed at when commissioning the Gypsy Soul in Feb 2012.  Still a great place, with very helpful & professional staff and very picturesque.  This leg of the trip crossed Altamah Sound, Doboy River/Sound Sapello Sound & St. Catherine Sound which was kind of cool with the "rollers" and currents.  So different from the day before which was all very small creeks, rivers and narrow channels.

After giving GS a bath, both inside & out and took advantage of the courtesy car from the marina to get our fluids refilled, we spent the better part of Friday walking through Isle of Hope, which is just one of the cutest places we've been - very old & nautical style homes.

On Saturday, we treated ourselves to a couples massage before meeting up with Beth & Rome to celebrate St. Patricks day in Savannah.  Talk about living under a rock - we had no idea that St. Patricks day celebration in Savannah was so renown.  The place was rockin.  We were introduced to Ken & Sue from Annapolis, who had lived in Savannah for several years who showed us around Tybee Island on Sunday where we shared an amazing meal at the Crab Shack.

City Market (outside of Wildwings)

The Crab Shack - Tybee Island

Monday was spent chillin and getting the GS ready to head to Hilton Head Island - dinner was a T-bone on the grill, just enjoying the perfect spring evening.  Light breeze, sky full of stars and dead calm water.  Except for the no-seeums it was spot on.  During our stay at IOH, we witnessed how much of a working body of water the intercoastal waterway is, daily, barges, tugs, river cruise boats passed by along with the everyday cruisers/boaters & fishermen.  Monday night, we were up close and personal to the biggest thing I've seen move on the water - no kidding.  We watched the spot lights head our way for at least 45 minutes before 2 barges with 5 tugs passed by.  The first barge was close to 300 yards (yep 2.5 - 3 football fields in length, not a typo) It looked like there was city on this thing.  This was only to be followed by one that was even longer - we are estimating ~ 400 yards.  It took the corner so much wider that as the front corner started to make the turn, it was about 100ft from the back of our boat.  The tugs pulling & pushing these things were so much fun to watch, there was a small little tender/tug, who's job was to go here and push and go there & push, to keep the vessel from running aground and to keep it making the corner.  There is a video of the first barge at the bottom of this post, it's kind of long as it took a good 5-7 minutes to make the corner where we were.

Mobil link to Pictures  Isle of Hope