We woke up at 6:45am started the engines and headed out the gap. We had to leave close to high tide to ensure that we had enough water under us. It is such a narrow gap and with the current in there, we were reminded of what the guide book said...."be bold when entering or exiting this channel". And bold we were. Kerry kept constant throttle and kept his eye on the channel markers. The channel is so close to the beach that you think that you will land on it at any second. We got out without a hitch and took no time to throw up the sails. We could see a small parade of boats coming our way. They were probably all heading for the Boat Show in Annapolis. I ducked back into the boat to start the coffee up and breakie. The boys were up as well so we got a few hours of school in before throwing down the anchor in Annapolis at 10:30am. After about an hour we decided to hit the town. We jumped in the dingy and headed for the only dingy dock at the show. The dingies were layered about 2-3 boats from the dock. Kerry had to climb over all of the dinghy and tie us the dock. The kids were then escorted one by one - followed by Dylan's stroller. It was quite the production. It took no time for Connor to notice that Annapolis sells ice cream! They both enjoyed a cone when all of a sudden I noticed Pat and Paul from QCYC, our club back home. We sat and had a nice visit. More members will be arriving tomorrow, so we will see more then. We walked around the town and then went to visit the Naval Academy. They had a wonderful museum that we all enjoyed!
Glad you saw Pat and Paul. We saw them in Bequia last winter. Looks as if you're on schedule for your winter trip to Bahamas. Once in Florida recommend you use PassageWeather.com and Chris Parker to plan your first Gulf Stream crossing. Hint; bypass weather front troubled thereGrand Bahama and Abacos; instead head across to Great Harbour at the top of the Berries, then straight to Nassau and Exumas. The weather is warmer, and much calmer in winter the further south you go. Anchoring and navigation is dead easy there, and winter North American storm fronts are less of a factor.
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