21 April, 2021 Wind, more wind and big wind

 

21 SM; 3.5 hours

Quiet night at anchorage.  Marine training elsewhere on the base.  Nasty afternoon and night winds forecast with small craft warning beginning at 1400.  While the anchorage was ok for wind protection we decided to get underway and make a few miles toward our weekend destination.  Wind was beginning to freshen.  Morning anchorage

0740 I was retrieving a very solidly stuck anchor I noticed a large tow at the intersection of our exit and the AICW.  We hailed on the radio and captain said he was stationary waiting on a larger tow and barge which was also southbound.  We got passing instructions and exited our anchorage and passed the tow-barge combination on the "1"whistle.

Big tow

Big barge at sunrise

All clear

The wind continued to freshen all morning.  We had identified a few anchorages that seemed favorable.  The first in front of Swansboro, NC was way too exposed and we passed.  Our preferred anchorage was about 20 miles ahead and another three hours or so depending on the tidal currents.  Passing two anchorages with very good reported holding and OK wind protection we decided to press ahead.  Winds now 12 MPH and gusting over 15.  After about 30 minutes we decided to turn around and go back and and get well anchored and secure Serenity and ourselves.  We anchored at 1100 in 6 feet of water just as the flood tide began.  (anchor location)  We have had a great anchor set so far as the winds continued to build out of the SW, 20 gust to 25 or so.  

1600 wind observation

Cold front passage in a few hours and 180 degree shift in the winds from the north at 20G30.  Going to be a bumpy ride tonight.   Chili in the thermal pot for supper.  Cool temperatures forecast tonight.  Frost warnings inland.  We are going to a marina in Beaufort, NC on the 23rd.  Shopping time, boat work to include wash, oil change, fuel filter changes, composting head refresh and visit many friends.  Saturday and Sunday gale force winds and rain and thunderstorms in the forecast.  Good time to be secured to a dock.  Upcoming Monday will haul Serenity and tend to a troublesome stuffing box and inspect the bottom and running gear.

3270 SM traveled; 1612.5 hours hobbs