Hi folks!
The long slog across the banks involved a few hours at anchor after my sidelight bulb burned out. Thought I had a spare but couldn't find it and was reluctant to run without it. Anchored near the Northwest Channel. In the morning we eased out onto Tongue of the Ocean and it was delightfully calm with very little chop. There had been talk about a swell developing as a result of a storm far out in the Atlantic and I was delighted to see it hadn't happened. We were motorsailing due to the light wind. The Joulter Cays were visible and after a couple hours we were within sight of Morgan's Bluff. Then the swell began, almost as if a switch had been turned on. There was what appeared to be an unbroken line of surf along the barrier reef, and the breaking waves were big. My anxiety level ratcheted up considerably as I considered the possibility that the gap in the reef might be impassable.
We approached the entrance, remaining in deep water, and reconnoitered. The seas were breaking heavily on either side but we didn't see any breaking right in the channel, so I went for it. Strictly white knuckle! The breakers were in the 10 - 15 foot range and had the potential to destroy the boat. We made it and came shooting around the jetty, heaving a sigh of relief. We later met a 32 year resident and former sailor who said it was about the biggest swell she could remember. And it lasted for days.
Now, I am doing my best to keep a local fishing boat from sinking. Long story that I may try to tell later. And another one did sink about 4 nights ago. Right aft of us at the dock. Battery went dead, bilge pump stopped, and down she went. Not sure if this latest one will make it. Will let you all know.
Cheers, Charlie
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