Wednesdays. 10/1/ to Tuesday, 10/7/25 ~ We are getting close to being aboard PEKABU again!
TS Imedla and Hurricane Humburto are reeking havoc long the Atlantic Coast this week.
Thursday, 10/2/25 ~ We spoke with the marina project manager. When the exhaust riser was removed prior to shipping the engine, it showed age with a buildup inside the pipe. We need a new one. They wanted to order one, but since we have both a new exhaust rider and new heat exchanger, we will drive down. We could have told them that it was onboard in the bow storage, but they would have had to move all the "stuff" from the aft cabin that is currently on the forward bed. We decided to drive down and retrieve it for them. Definitely cheaper than purchasing both new. The engine is also do to be returned tomorrow. Guess what! Another road trip!!!
Friday, 10/3/25 ~ We were up and out by 7. No problems with the trip down. We stopped for a bite to eat before getting to the marina. It took only about 25 minutes to unpack the bed, retrieve the heat exchanger and the exhaust riser, and replace everything back on the bed. We stalled leaving while Pete tracked the delivery of the engine. It would be great to see it before it is reinstalled. As he was going into the office, he received a call from the marina office. "Your engine has been delivered, but where are you? We have no PEKABU or Bruzik staying with us." Pete explained that PEKABU was just outside of the office. She responded, "no. It isn't" That is when they realized that the delivery was to Deltaville Marine Service at Jackson Creek Marina about 3 miles away on the other side of the peninsula. Thankfully, our service manager offered to drive over and pick it up. Since it was getting late, we opted to head back to NJ.
Saturday and Sunday 10/4 and 10/5/25 ~ Over the weekend, we saw both granddaughters' soft ball games. We also had dinner with Chris, Kel and the girls. Sunday evening, we caught dinner with Jenn and Greg at their favorite neighborhood bar, JoJo's.
Monday and Tuesday 10/5 and 6/25 ~ Laundry needed to be done and provisioning, as there is no close grocery store near Deltaville. I figured that I would buy meats to get us through the first 2 weeks of cruising. I could separate and freeze individual packets for easy food prep. Chicken, chopped meat, shrimp, and sausage were placed in the freezer out in the garage. I also made sure that I picked up about 1.5 pounds of sliced Cooper Sharp American Cheese. It is only found in the NJ, NY, PA, and CT area. We were introduced to this yummy cheese during our stay here in NJ. This too was now in smaller packages and frozen. My plan to was use the frozen stuff to keep our condiments currently in the refrigerator cold during the 5 hour drive to Deltaville and they will keep frozen in the onboard units once they cold enough.
Wednesday, 10/7/25~ Heather and we made time for final good-by dinner. When we returned back to the house, Greg returned from the garage with a strange look on his face. Apparently, I didn't close the freezer door properly. It opened and everything inside is now room temp. I was shocked that I had to toss out about $150 of food, and that I must replace and refreeze once on the boat, which is much more challenging as both the fridge and freezer have been off for the past 6 weeks.
The freezer was emptied and thoroughly cleaned. Now it is time to pack up and place our things in thee car and say our thanks and good-byes to Jenn and Greg. In the morning, they will be gone by 5:30 We will be leaving around 6 am.
Thursday, 10/8/26 ~ We were on the road by 6:10 am. It was windy with intermittent showers. Another low is traveling off the coast of the Carolinas and causing havoc there and at sea.
We need to be at Deltaville Yachting Center by 2 pm for the sea trial. Due to a couple of accidents and some rain, we made it by 1:30. Pete, the head mechanic and another mechanic went over the reinstall onboard, then took her out. With the storm, conditions on The Bay were not good. Winds gusting to 35 and poor visibility in the rain made the sea trial cut short. Everything seems to be running fine. Pete did see the engine temp just slightly higher than we have seen in the past. It is probably been reset with the install.
Once back at the dock, we had the mechanic come onboard a couple of times finishing up a few items. I had already begin cleaning the galley so I would have a clean area to prepare dinner tonight.
It's been a long time, but we are back on board! We will soon be joining the ret of the snow birds for the migration south.
The Pete loves to “stare” at an engine as it runs. It reinforces what everything should look like. Today, as he did his stare, he found that things were slightly different, so he spoke to the service guy. Sure enough, the drip pan was reversed, which is OK, and a hose that was positioned slightly different. That too, wasn’t a problem. The problem was nobody remembered to put the cap on the hose, which was for evacuation of the oil. Not only would we have a mess, it might have resulted in a seized engine had that not been found! Phew! We missed another disaster. As Diane, MV ARGONAUT, has often said as she periodically checked on our progress, “You can’t make this s#it up!” Saturday, 10/10/25 ~ We have a new addition to the family. Weston Luke Hodges arrived today. His parents Chelsea and Matt, 4-legged furry brother, Scooby and Grandma, Deb as well as the rest of the Steiner Clan are excited to welcome him.
Congratulations to the beautiful new family!
The nor’easter passed though over the weekend with some rain, heavy winds (28 with gusts up to 45.) We are sheltered from the storm being deep in the work / hauling alley. However, with all that water pushed over from the eastern shore combined with the king tides, made getting off the boat interesting. At one point we had almost 12 inches of water over the dock. That meant PEKABU was also floating high above the dock. Our 3-step ladder was not enough. Pete placed the hanging step to make up the difference. Tillie not only needed to be lifted on and off, but Pete actually carried her to higher ground. Only once did she have to skip going to shore. The tide was high at 9 pm. The power was cut to the dock for safety and one of the boards on the dock was pulled up on one side. It was dangerous to attempt to walk the dock with the water and the lights off.
Unusually high tides
Monday, 10/12/25 ~ The tides are not quite back to normal, but the dock was accessible this morning. Tillie wasn’t happy and refused to use the pad in the cockpit last night. She held it without complaint until this morning. She did use the first patch of grass she encountered for a long time!
We had to pick up the rental car about 25 minutes SW of Deltaville. Then we drove up separately, to Castle Harbor Marina, where our car will be left until Pete can fly up to bring it down to Fort Pierce. It was 3 hours up and 3 hours back. Traffic was busy as usual for that time of day. Thankfully, there were no major hold-ups, but it was still a long day. We didn’t get back in time to drop it off by 5. Pete arranged the return for tomorrow.
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| A stow-a-way |
Once the meeting was over, Pete returned the rental car. He had to wait almost an hour for an UBER.
After dinner, we checked the forecast for tomorrow as well as last minute checks and preps for departure. Winds will clock to the NNE and some of the showers will remain, but lessen during the day. We are so looking forward to tomorrow's departure!
Wednesday, 10/15/25 ~ The day of our departure is here!
Deltaville, VA to Salt Pond, Hampton, VA
Miles: 49 Hours: 5.5 S/M: - - -
Total Miles: 49 Total Hours: 5.5
As we were heading out into the river around 8:30 am, Pete noticed the engine was running hot, so we turned around and returned to the dock. Pete figured it had to be one of two things: the thermometer might be set to a higher threshold, or it was the water pump impeller. The impeller hasn’t been changed in a year or so. He changed into work clothes and proceeded to open up the engine. Sure enough, the spline on the impeller had ripped. Easy fix - a new impeller from our bag of parts. Normally, it’s a 10-minute process. Somehow, the locking ring would not go back on. Pete tried all of his old tricks, but no joy. He had no choice but to call the office and asked if somebody could come down with the right tool. After an hour of trying various techniques and tools, the mechanic was able to secure it. It and we are good to go.
Take 2- It is now 11:20 am. Thankfully, today’s journey is only about 5+ hours. Once again we depart, this time into the great grey yonder! So far so good. The winds are out of the NNE at about 12-14, with stronger gusts. It was a lively sea state with waves quartering of the aft port. They settled down around 2 pm. Two sailboats and a trawler were the only ones who passed us all day.
Called Salt Pond Marina regarding our late arrival, but no answer nor response to the v-mail. We arrived there around 6:45 pm. No problem docking since the winds abated. Surprisingly, the electrical works on slip #2. There are also new liveaboard boats on the fuel dock (which apparently is still not working) and on slips on either side of us.
While checking Facebook tonight, there was a posting from Catalina Yachts. They are “pausing production to reorganize.” They stated that all current orders will be filled. However, there were comments by employees stating that they were dismissed and haven’t been paid in 2 weeks. Under new owners, I don’t know if this reorganization will be as successful as it was under Frank Butler, Sharon Day and Gerry Douglas. It would be a shame if they went under. There are a lot of Catalina boats out there and many loyal Catalina owners. More and more of the cruiser size boat makers are disappearing.
As we were heading out into the river around 8:30 am, Pete noticed the engine was running hot, so we turned around and returned to the dock. Pete figured it had to be one of two things: the thermometer might be set to a higher threshold, or it was the water pump impeller. The impeller hasn’t been changed in a year or so. He changed into work clothes and proceeded to open up the engine. Sure enough, the spline on the impeller had ripped. Easy fix - a new impeller from our bag of parts. Normally, it’s a 10-minute process. Somehow, the locking ring would not go back on. Pete tried all of his old tricks, but no joy. He had no choice but to call the office and asked if somebody could come down with the right tool. After an hour of trying various techniques and tools, the mechanic was able to secure it. It and we are good to go.
Take 2- It is now 11:20 am. Thankfully, today’s journey is only about 5+ hours. Once again we depart, this time into the great grey yonder! So far so good. The winds are out of the NNE at about 12-14, with stronger gusts. It was a lively sea state with waves quartering of the aft port. They settled down around 2 pm. Two sailboats and a trawler were the only ones who passed us all day.
Called Salt Pond Marina regarding our late arrival, but no answer nor response to the v-mail. We arrived there around 6:45 pm. No problem docking since the winds abated. Surprisingly, the electrical works on slip #2. There are also new liveaboard boats on the fuel dock (which apparently is still not working) and on slips on either side of us.
While checking Facebook tonight, there was a posting from Catalina Yachts. They are “pausing production to reorganize.” They stated that all current orders will be filled. However, there were comments by employees stating that they were dismissed and haven’t been paid in 2 weeks. Under new owners, I don’t know if this reorganization will be as successful as it was under Frank Butler, Sharon Day and Gerry Douglas. It would be a shame if they went under. There are a lot of Catalina boats out there and many loyal Catalina owners. More and more of the cruiser size boat makers are disappearing.
Night at the Marina
Thursday, 10/16/25 ~ Salt Pond Marina to Top Rack Marina, Chesapeake, VA
Miles: 27 Hours: 4.3 S/M: 8.8
Total Miles: 76 Total Hours: 9.8
The plan is to leave early in hopes of getting one of the 3 powered slips at Top Rack Marina. Pete has a lot of work to do once we are docked. So, we left the dock at 7:45 am. The wind was pushing us away from dock, but we avoided hitting the boat next to us. Once out on The Bay, the seas were once again sporty, but were directly on our stern making it much easier to steer and surf the waves.
Norfolk traffic is always busy and a bit stressful. Today, there were 2 Naval vessels, one inbound, the other outbound, plus a container ship outbound and an oil tanker inbound. Docked in the Naval docks we saw 3-Expeditionary Fast Transport (EFT) catamarans that are for decommissioning. A German cruise ship was docked downtown. There is also the usual commerce & naval patrol traffic.
Norfolk traffic is always busy and a bit stressful. Today, there were 2 Naval vessels, one inbound, the other outbound, plus a container ship outbound and an oil tanker inbound. Docked in the Naval docks we saw 3-Expeditionary Fast Transport (EFT) catamarans that are for decommissioning. A German cruise ship was docked downtown. There is also the usual commerce & naval patrol traffic.
Naval ships coming and going
Old Port Comfort light house and windmill parts awaiting transport
More windmill parts and Naval EFT 13 waiting to be decommissioned
The USCG Lighthouse Ship permanently docked, a landing craft and Tillie trying to find the bees
More windmill parts and Naval EFT 13 waiting to be decommissioned
German cruise ship and a unique "ship" at anchor by the hospital
making all that noise on the bridge. The sound comes from the tires on the open grids of the bridge.
Waited for Elizabeth River RR Lift Bridge, the Glimerton and Norfolk Southern RR. Thankfully, our waiting time for all three bridges was less than 30 minutes.
Top Rack Marina takes no reservations, doesn’t use radios, has only 3 slips with power, $75 /overnight + $15 for power. We were there by 12:30 and had our pick of slips, including those with power. Their big parking lot allowed plenty of space for Tillie to run around. Mid-afternoon, we found that they also have a powerful horn for speeders! Sure gets everyone’s attention while shaming and embarrassing the boaters.
Our neighbors, Norm & Helen on Cat GOING SOUTH, checked bridge schedule. He was told that we need to be there no later than 8:20 am for the 9 am opening.
We knew that we were just about out of water. We assumed that we could fill up once docked. It isn’t unusual to assume there will be water available at a marina, but this is a “boatel” for small runabouts and fishing boats. Most boats dock just to grab a meal at the restaurant or from the deli on sight. Slips here, during the “snowbird’ migration, are usually unoccupied. The bridge problems are a windfall for the marina.
Great Bridge Bridge has had a bad year also. It has been closed a number of times due to high water. During a hot spell this past summer, with temps were over 105 degrees, the bridge warped and couldn’t close. Local fire departments had pumper trucks shooting water onto the bridge in an effort to cool it down. Currently, it is once again on limited openings due to mechanical issues that show no signs of completion. They will only be opening 4 times daily. That means a 6 am, a 9 am, a 1 pm and a 7 pm opening. I don't know how they will manage all the boats as well as tugs and barges per opening. I guess we will soon find out.
Friday, 10/17/25 ~ Top Rack Marina to Great Bridge, Chesapeake, VA
Top Rack Marina takes no reservations, doesn’t use radios, has only 3 slips with power, $75 /overnight + $15 for power. We were there by 12:30 and had our pick of slips, including those with power. Their big parking lot allowed plenty of space for Tillie to run around. Mid-afternoon, we found that they also have a powerful horn for speeders! Sure gets everyone’s attention while shaming and embarrassing the boaters.
Our neighbors, Norm & Helen on Cat GOING SOUTH, checked bridge schedule. He was told that we need to be there no later than 8:20 am for the 9 am opening.
We knew that we were just about out of water. We assumed that we could fill up once docked. It isn’t unusual to assume there will be water available at a marina, but this is a “boatel” for small runabouts and fishing boats. Most boats dock just to grab a meal at the restaurant or from the deli on sight. Slips here, during the “snowbird’ migration, are usually unoccupied. The bridge problems are a windfall for the marina.
Great Bridge Bridge has had a bad year also. It has been closed a number of times due to high water. During a hot spell this past summer, with temps were over 105 degrees, the bridge warped and couldn’t close. Local fire departments had pumper trucks shooting water onto the bridge in an effort to cool it down. Currently, it is once again on limited openings due to mechanical issues that show no signs of completion. They will only be opening 4 times daily. That means a 6 am, a 9 am, a 1 pm and a 7 pm opening. I don't know how they will manage all the boats as well as tugs and barges per opening. I guess we will soon find out.
Friday, 10/17/25 ~ Top Rack Marina to Great Bridge, Chesapeake, VA
Miles: 3 Hours: 5.5 S/M: 12
Total Miles: 79 Total Hours: 15.3
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| We kept getting closer to this mooring, the shore, and shallow water! |
Tillie making sure that Robert sets the tow lines properly and our view looking back in the lock
Within moments of docking at the Atlantic Yacht Basin, Chesapeake, VA, the head mechanic, Bryan, came onboard. He spent an hour tracing, hoses, lines, wires and possible cause. The water intake for the engine was clear. It should be! he had enough time to realize more investigating needed on Monday. Maybe it is the heat exchanger. Fingers, toes, and anything else that can be crossed are. We cancelled our reservation at Coinjock.
Around 5 this evening, we heard live music. It turns out that there is a pop-up concert sponsored by businesses here at the marina. The music and hors d’oeuvres were good, the people we met- interesting, and all the dogs affectionate – all 6 of them.
I spent the day trying to finish up processing the rest of the photo’s from Riley’s softball game. I was able to weed it down to 141 from the 640 photos I took. I wanted to make sure I had at least a few of each player. It’s hard when they are dressed alike and most of which I never met.
It is wonderful to have a dock where we have a perfect seat for watching an amazing parade 3 times a day! Due to the bridge issue, it is only opening at 6 am (which I'm sure we won't see), 9 am, 1 pm and 7 pm. It turns out weekends are the busiest. We watched about 30 boats head south with the 9 o’clock opening. At the 1 pm opening, we saw close to 50 boats, and 7 pm there were at least another 15 “ish.”
The lock, once empty from the north bound traffic, will remain open, loading south bound boats until full. It will then do its thing and then discharge the boats to wait in a holding pattern for the bridge. It will load 2-3 more times before the bridge opens. Talk about semi organized chaos. The big boats and the fast boats try to jockey to the head of the line. With all the sailboats, it is somewhat difficult. What’s mind blowing are the large barges that must also transit this area. They consume a lot of real estate in the lock. That foes for the "dredge trains" that drag the pipes. I have no clue how they load into the lock.
Once through the bridge, the jockeying continues. Of course, there are 2 more bridges south of here that are on scheduled openings. Those too, must be interesting. Hopefully, we will soon find ourselves.
Tonight must have been Home Coming at one of the schools. Lots of young people were dress up and taking lots of photos over at the Museum.
The 7 pm opening was beautiful, twilight with calm waters and lots of lights and their reflections.
The 7 pm opening was beautiful, twilight with calm waters and lots of lights and their reflections.
Views from the bridge south on our way back from breakfast
Once back, Pete de-knotted Tillie before grooming her. She was scraggly to say the least. It’s been 6 weeks and a lot of hair since she was last groomed. To say she doesn’t like being groomed is an understatement. Most of the YouTube videos show calm and serene dogs being groomed. That is not Tillie! She spends 1/2 of the time squiggling and withdrawing. My sole job is to keep her still for Pete to work. Once done, my clothes are dark grey from all her clipped hair, and we could build another Tillie from all the removed hair.
As for traffic today, the 9 am opening had about 30 boats, southbound. The 1 pm opening had over 40 boats. Somehow, the 4 northbound boats headed north while the parade of southbound boats were also on the move. The free dock on this side of the bridge was quickly filled and soon had 3 additional boats rafted to them. It looks like the free docks on the other side of the bridge already has some boats tied up.
As for traffic today, the 9 am opening had about 30 boats, southbound. The 1 pm opening had over 40 boats. Somehow, the 4 northbound boats headed north while the parade of southbound boats were also on the move. The free dock on this side of the bridge was quickly filled and soon had 3 additional boats rafted to them. It looks like the free docks on the other side of the bridge already has some boats tied up.
Views from north of the bridge for the 9 am opening
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| With all the traffic, they had to double up at the free dock |
During the afternoon, winds increased to 15-20 mph out of the SW with gusts up to 28. They accompanied a cool front with rain bands that just passed north of us.
Tonight, there were a lot of postings on Facebook regarding the bridge. Some boats arrived at 8:40 am, but had to wait in the holding area until 1 for the opening. One of the northbound boats went to avoid another boat and hit one of the dolphins. Many boaters complained about waiting, lack of info and poor etiquette.
Surprisingly, the 7 pm opening had only 1 north bound and 3 southbound. A total of 4 boats!
Watched the game. Eagles lost. Didn’t show up with their A-game. Unfortunately, the Phili’s also lost this weekend. Not too many happy people in the Philadelphia area right now.
Monday, 10/20/25 ~ Day 4 at AYB ~ Last night, Tillie woke me around 2:30 an with her ear scratching and head shaking. If I don’t treat her ears after her bath, the “itchies” are guaranteed to visit within a day or two. There were also a number of strong gusts that stressed the boat’s lines that also kept me awake. Pete walked Tillie before 7, but I only woke when they boarded and rocked the boat at 7:15.
Surprisingly, the 7 pm opening had only 1 north bound and 3 southbound. A total of 4 boats!
Watched the game. Eagles lost. Didn’t show up with their A-game. Unfortunately, the Phili’s also lost this weekend. Not too many happy people in the Philadelphia area right now.
By 7:50 am, we just completed emptying the aft cabin when Ruben requested permission to come aboard. He has spent the next 8 1/2 hours dealing with different issues. He methodically worked through all the water systems, He started with the water intake and that was clear, but found and eliminated the mud and gunk below the sea strainer. Some of the hoses are 21 years old. We decided to replace them. When we were running the engine, he found that there was a very tiny leak from the radiator pressure cap. That got replaced. The hose that was slightly kinked and showing its age - definitely got replaced. When the engine was tested, it began to overheat. Using an air compressor, the blockage was blown out. The engine ran well. A full day and he is still investigating. Unfortunately, it is time for him to quit.
I guess all the complaints and heavy traffic around the bridge was heard. Today, the schedule has been modified to openings on the even hours. That makes 12 possible openings per day including overnight instead of only 4 openings.
Tuesday 10/21/25 ~ Day 5 at AYB ~Rubin spent another full day. All hoses are replaced, new impeller (even though the current one only has 14 hours on it,) the new heat exchanger was installed while the older one was checked on the workbench and “didn’t look that bad. It has life still left in it.” Pete and Rubin discussed the logic of everything. Around 3 pm the engine was tested again. It very quickly started to overheat. Ruben strongly believes that it’s a water supply issue from the water intake. We explained that the bottom was cleaned and everything was free and clear when we left Deltaville. On Friday, when it was initially checked by Brian, it was clear. Ruben agreed. When he checked it on Monday, it WAS clear. He figured the only thing that it could possibly be is we sucked something in during that trial. Sure enough, using a air compressor, he was able to blow through a plug and suddenly we had the proper flow of water. YEA!! On one of the engine trials during these repairs, it must have sucked something into the line. Who’d a thunk!!! Yes, Diane. We can’t make this s#it up! He will be back tomorrow. One more hose needs to be installed then the engine run for a while.
Around this, Pete and George have been working with data that requires a lot of attention in preparation for the meetings next Monday and Tuesday. He only breaks when Rubin has a question or requires the engine to start and be monitored. I could do the engine, but I think he uses it as an excuse for a much needed break.
I have been working on the blog all day. I hope to post the engine summary and this summer info hopefully, tomorrow. The October blog is written through today. I will wait to finish out the month, then post it.
I have been working on the blog all day. I hope to post the engine summary and this summer info hopefully, tomorrow. The October blog is written through today. I will wait to finish out the month, then post it.
The crew team from the high school and their equipment
Wednesday, 10/22/25 ~ Day 6 at AYB ~Ruben return this morning, replaced the final hose that had to be ordered, did some final checking and we started the engine. She ran beautifully. After 18 hours and with a final check, he said we should be good to go! When Pete is done with his business conferences, he plans to run it for probably about two hours, just to make sure. More fingers and toes crossed. Hopefully, we will leave in the morning.
Around 3:30 Pete ran the engine. It ran great. We should be good go! Made the reservations for Coinjock for tomorrow.
It was a good day to do laundry! Once Pete was done with the meeting prep for the day, he walk into town for my prescription, and some basic provisions to hold us until we get to Homer Smith’s Marina in Beauford NC.
It was a good day to do laundry! Once Pete was done with the meeting prep for the day, he walk into town for my prescription, and some basic provisions to hold us until we get to Homer Smith’s Marina in Beauford NC.
When I turned on the TV after dinner, it wasn’t working. It appears that our TV has given up the ghost. We still have our Kindles with plenty to read.
Thursday, 10/23/25 – Day 7 at AYB ~ We were up early, but had to wait for the office and fuel dock to open. The engine started, fuel filled, the LARGE bill for the marina was paid . . . and the thermometer once again continued to climb.
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| Our view from the southern end of the dock |
No water is being discharged after being blown out. Brian, and Ruben are scratching their heads. Blew through it twice, but still no water from the engine. Checked the water pump and the impeller. Found an air pocket in the line. Checked numerous lines and still scratching their heads. They also had a diver check the intakes, but found nothing. At this point I can’t remember all the things they tried. Miraculously, the engine is now seems to be working properly . . .but now the tachometer and volts monitor meter are bouncing. Ruben will return tomorrow.
We decided to stay here another week. Today was our only chance to escape. The weather window will close tomorrow. Pete is swamped with work through the weekend and then the big meeting on Monday and Tuesday. It really is a good choice. Docking is reasonable & protected, mechanics are good, great views (parades of boats and sculling crews); get-togethers on Tuesday and Thursday; great, reasonable, and dependable laundry. Everything we need is within a mile of us. Besides quite a few restaurants, there is a hardware, Auto Zone, Kroeger grocery, Walgreens pharmacy, vet, bank, etc.
Once again Diane, we can’t make this s#it up!!!
Friday, 10/24/25 ~ Day 8 at AYB ~ I prepared in case the mechanics arrived, but it was doubtful from the onset, but we’re ready.
Once again Diane, we can’t make this s#it up!!!
Friday, 10/24/25 ~ Day 8 at AYB ~ I prepared in case the mechanics arrived, but it was doubtful from the onset, but we’re ready.
Pete started working at 8:30 and worked all the way until five. The afternoon meeting at four went very well but he still has a lot of work to do this weekend.
Tillie is our administrative assistant when we are working.
I did a bunch of small chores aboard, but I had no energy today due to a headache. I was the one who monitored the engine up above while we put her through more testing.
During one of Tilly and my walks, I decided to take some pictures of Mother Nature and her decorating for the fall. She usually does a pretty good job. I wasn't disappointed.
Mother Nature's creative streak
A US Army Air Force (USAAF) rescue boat and a research vessel undergoing repairs
Buildings around the marina
We are exploring purchasing a new TV. Our current one has given up the ghost. We’ve tried online for Walmart, Staples and Amazon, but unfortunately, the earliest we can get the TV that we want is Monday. The only negative is Pete won’t be able to watch the Eagles play on Sunday, but we’ll manage.
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| A British Longboat and crew |
In late October 1775, the growing unrest in New England came to Virginia for the first time. Frustrated by the Royal Navy presence, citizens of Hampton seized a Navy Longboat that grounded in a storm, stripped it, and burned it. The war of words escalated in the papers, finally leading to the Navy trying to enforce discipline on the city of Hampton. The citizens resisted successfully, and revolution started to spread in Virginia.
So of course I just myself and my camera and got some great shots. I also made met Catherine, who played the commanding officer on the longboat. She gave me her card so that I could forward them my photos. It was a fun thing to watch and great photograph. I also got a charge out of some young girls who are dressed for the occasion and running around it was really cute. The cannons were loud, some of them misfired as well as the muskets. but all in all it was very interesting. There will be a second hiring of the cannons at two this afternoon, but I don’t think I’ll stick around for that. I’m getting hungry.
Tilly took her first “walk about” today. Pete had gone to get some groceries so he and the cart walked down the dock while I undid Tilly to bring her down below. Unfortunately, I got a phone call from one of my sisters and we wound up talking. When I hung up the phone, I realized Tilly was nowhere in sight down below nor anywhere on the deck. She wasn’t on the docks either. Suddenly, I spotted a white tail dancing through the underbrush about 100 yards away. I called her and she disappeared, so I started to walk after her never realizing she took another entrance to the dock and was on her way to the boat. I couldn’t yell at her. She came when she was called, so I gave her a treat and told her she was a good dog. I’ll have to keep her attached to leash from now on.
Pete came home with everything on the list plus a delicious peach and praline pie as well as a Taylor pork roll, both of which we enjoyed for dinner. The additional servings of the pork roll went into the freezer. It’s been a long time since we’ve had Taylor pork roll and it’s still tastes so good!
The bridge openings on the even hours seems to be working out much better traffic wise.. During the day, especially during the week, traffic cuts down to maybe three or four boats per opening. Weekends are a little different. For some reason, this morning at 8, we had 16 boats come through. For the 10, we had 8 boats come through and 11 at noon. 15 boats come through at 2. Another 9 come through at 4 pm. Well, it’s true. Snowbirds are on the move. What surprises us is that there’s a number of very large boats that are traveling the ICW instead of doing a quick outside jump. Perhaps the ocean is too rough due to Hurricane Melissa as she passes well off shore, downgraded from a Cat 5 when she hit Jamacia, to a Cat 1 heading to Nova Scotia.
Couldn’t watch the game without a TV, but the Eagles won again today!
Sunday, 10/26/25 ~ Day 10 at AYB ~ The temperatures are falling, the leaves are changing and day’s light is shrinking. It has been quite a while since we have seen the colors begin changing. This is only the second time cruising that we have been this far north. We usually arrive in Fort Pierce by the first week of November. Needless to say, we won’t make that this year.
Pete came home with everything on the list plus a delicious peach and praline pie as well as a Taylor pork roll, both of which we enjoyed for dinner. The additional servings of the pork roll went into the freezer. It’s been a long time since we’ve had Taylor pork roll and it’s still tastes so good!
The bridge openings on the even hours seems to be working out much better traffic wise.. During the day, especially during the week, traffic cuts down to maybe three or four boats per opening. Weekends are a little different. For some reason, this morning at 8, we had 16 boats come through. For the 10, we had 8 boats come through and 11 at noon. 15 boats come through at 2. Another 9 come through at 4 pm. Well, it’s true. Snowbirds are on the move. What surprises us is that there’s a number of very large boats that are traveling the ICW instead of doing a quick outside jump. Perhaps the ocean is too rough due to Hurricane Melissa as she passes well off shore, downgraded from a Cat 5 when she hit Jamacia, to a Cat 1 heading to Nova Scotia.
Couldn’t watch the game without a TV, but the Eagles won again today!
Sunday, 10/26/25 ~ Day 10 at AYB ~ The temperatures are falling, the leaves are changing and day’s light is shrinking. It has been quite a while since we have seen the colors begin changing. This is only the second time cruising that we have been this far north. We usually arrive in Fort Pierce by the first week of November. Needless to say, we won’t make that this year.
The boat shook a lot as the 8 o’clock opening released about 15 boats, three of which were very large, plus a couple of barges. Later, we watched two, beautifully classic boats came through. A large ketch from RI and the other a Trumphy Fantail. It’s amazing how the amount of traffic increases on weekends. What I can’t figure out is that those of us who are cruising are cruising daily, so why should there be so many coming through on the weekends? It’s a mystery.
MY INNISFALL MY FREEDOM
Totally unexpected special forces
SV TRADE WIND
This is some of the beautiful woodwork and joinery along with brass accents including the winch handle holder, windows with a drip spout, brass passage lighting on SV TRADE WINDS
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| A surprise at sunset! |
Did some minor chores while Pete was working. Pete ran the engine and the tachometer is still playing around, but this time we verified that it is also affecting the electrical on the panel. I will stop in the office and let them know that any work done has to be done in the morning before noon on the next two days because of Pete schedule.
Monday, 10/27/25 ~ Day 11 at AYB ~Weather today was partially cloudy with mild winds with some stronger gusts, but the weather is definitely deteriorating. Word is boats are finding it difficult to get dockage for the next few weather days. Thankfully, we have already extended our stay. I saw 2 boats head north at the 4 pm opening. I think they assumed that they could get dockage at Coinjock, which is the only marina between here and Belhaven. They are probably heading back to Norfolk. If there is no dockage, there are some anchorages that are protected by the buildings of the city.
Spoke first thing this morning with the service manager. We cannot have any work done after 11:30 today and tomorrow due to Pete’s meetings. He said he would work around them.
I spent the afternoon sorting through photos.
I spent the afternoon sorting through photos.
Our new TV and hand held tachometer arrived. Tillie and I picked them up at the marine store on site.
There was an observation on Facebook. Someone with AIS watched a boat venture across Arbermarle Sound today. Winds were from the west at 28 mph and gusts close to 50! He had to turn around when the Alligator River Bridge would not open. With any wind over 25 mph, bridges remain shut as a precaution against problems.
Pete’s meeting today went well, but there is work to be done for tomorrow’s meeting. With Pete so focused, Tillie and I are keeping a low profile.
once work was finished for the day, Pete took the scooter into town during a break in the rain around 4:30. A tool he ordered from Amazon needs to be picked up today at the locker, He also picked up a few necessities at the grocery store.
Since the TV is just the current model of the old one installation went seamlessly and quickly. Now the codes for the subscriptions will take much longer. It’s worth it!
Tuesday, 10/28/25 ~ Day 12 at AYB ~Weather raw, windy and rainy. In other words “Yucky!”
Pete’s meeting today went well, but there is work to be done for tomorrow’s meeting. With Pete so focused, Tillie and I are keeping a low profile.
once work was finished for the day, Pete took the scooter into town during a break in the rain around 4:30. A tool he ordered from Amazon needs to be picked up today at the locker, He also picked up a few necessities at the grocery store.
Since the TV is just the current model of the old one installation went seamlessly and quickly. Now the codes for the subscriptions will take much longer. It’s worth it!
Tuesday, 10/28/25 ~ Day 12 at AYB ~Weather raw, windy and rainy. In other words “Yucky!”
Spoke with the marina, requesting another day and the service manager to commit for the tachometer repair tomorrow morning. Also called Coinjock and made reservations for Thursday and Friday night. This weather will be around for most of the week. According to Windy, we have a window to make the 5-hour trip to Coinjock before the winds intensify again.
These "big boys" aren't affected by the winds and rains. The crew is doing the repositioning for the winter in Florida (Probably heading to the Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach or Miami area)
Worked on the blog most of the day. Still have a couple of days’ work on the photo processing. I am enjoying learning the Luminar Neo software. It is such a powerful tool with AI assists. We should have the tachometer finished tomorrow. Due to weather, we like all other boats are hunkering down until Thursday. Winds today are keeping the Alligator Bridge closed.
I have reservations at Coinjock for Thursday and Friday nights as Friday also looks challenging on the Albemarle Sound. However it is no where near as dangerous Hurricane Melissa which rapidly intensified to a Cat 5 and threatening the Caribbean.
Pete and George had the final prep for today’s meeting at noon. The meeting was for 6 hours, but Pete and George were present for the first 3 hours.
Besides the blog, I also have photos I took of the reenactment here at the museum. I have culled about 50 from the 600 I took. Once processed, I will forward them to the reenactment group. Lots to do!!
It was a perfect day to fill the crockpot and cook meatballs. Spaghetti and Meatballs for dinner tonight and 4 more dinners in the freezer (just add spaghetti or bread for meatball Parmesan!).
Wednesday, 10/29/25 ~ Day 13 at AYB ~Weather is still raw, less windy and rainy, but in other words “Still Yucky!”
By 7:50 this morning, Ruben arrived to work in the tachometer. Wires were dirty and slightly corroded. They are now all clean and working properly. Checked it with Pete’s new laser/contact handheld tachometer. Our old one lost the rubber tip and there are no replacements! Pete and Ruben were able to document the new RPMs with the pedestal tachometer.(The one at the pedestal has always been slightly off.)
Thursday, 10/30/25 ~ Day 14 at AYB ~She overheated as we started to head south at 7:45 am. We made it back to the dock just before the overheat alarm sounded. The only thing left it could possibly be is the water pump. We are waiting on the service manager’s call. Looks like we will be here now until Saturday at the earliest. Winds tomorrow are no bueno! The only bright spot is that we are now paid up for a month here.
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| Pete took this when he walked Tillie |
"This s#it is getting very old!!!" " Oh Vero, Vero, where art thou?" My friend, Diane and I have been having lots of text conversations over the past few months. She summed up our setbacks with the first quote. The second one is my response to her question as to when we will get to Fort Pierce for the winter. I had told her, I'll definitively know once we get to Vero Beach, which is only about 15 miles from Fort Pierce.
Called the office. at 8:30 Message for Service manager’s to call. Lost our weather window. Extended our stay to Saturday at the earliest.
Brian & Tim came aboard at 9:15, but we weren’t prepared for the mechanics. I am so glad that the aft cabin is organized so only 6 items need to be moved to provide access. Full access in less than 5 minute! We have had way too much practice at this. Once again they checked and checked. We took her out for a sea trial. Still overheating. Checked hoses, check thermostat, checked muffler. Reversed the plate on the water pump. They finally believe it is the raw water pump. The service department checked and there is now only 1 water pump available for our engine. With overnight delivery, it is $803. All other water pumps are either not available or on a 20 week back order! The last time we purchased a water pump we paid $693.
Friday, 10/31/25 ~ Day 15 at AYB ~While walking Tilly this morning, Pete stopped at the marine store here on the premises. He was able to confirm that our water pump was ordered and should be delivered sometime today. Hopefully, it arrives in time for the mechanics to have time to install it. If not, we will not leave until Tuesday.
Called the office. at 8:30 Message for Service manager’s to call. Lost our weather window. Extended our stay to Saturday at the earliest.
Brian & Tim came aboard at 9:15, but we weren’t prepared for the mechanics. I am so glad that the aft cabin is organized so only 6 items need to be moved to provide access. Full access in less than 5 minute! We have had way too much practice at this. Once again they checked and checked. We took her out for a sea trial. Still overheating. Checked hoses, check thermostat, checked muffler. Reversed the plate on the water pump. They finally believe it is the raw water pump. The service department checked and there is now only 1 water pump available for our engine. With overnight delivery, it is $803. All other water pumps are either not available or on a 20 week back order! The last time we purchased a water pump we paid $693.
Looking at Windy’s report for Albemarle Sound, it was a good decision not to travel today. Currently the wind are out of the west at 18 to 20 with gusts over 30. That would’ve been a choppy, difficult ride across the sound.
Today is Halloween, but I doubt we’re gonna see any trick-or-treaters. The only kids we see are the high schoolers who come down around 5:30 to do their sculling past us here at the marina.
Dan sent photos of the flooding around their home in Rockhall. The water has overflowed their property and the streets. Many photos of Annapolis show much of the waterfront is underwater. Reports are that the tide is 4-foot above normal!
When we dropped off our car to Castle Harbor Marina prior to our heading south from Deltaville. time constraints didn't allow for us to untie and move his bike plus the 2 empty gas tanks tied to the pilings into storage. Pete just realized our dock is mostly submerged. That means the bike is submerged and the 2 empty gas cans tied to the piling on the dock might have broken loose and possibly floated away. If so, I hope they are adopted by someone who could use them. It’s another mystery.
Around 12:30, Tim came aboard with the new water pump. He spent the next hour installing it. He looked at the old one and it didn’t look like it had any issues. When we started up the engine, everything worked fine. The tachometer is still bouncing a little bit, but numerous mechanics have said that when you first start an engine, it could bounce around. It stabilized as we ran the engine longer. Tim shot the engine with the laser thermometer and everything looked wonderful and cool (165 degrees). Pete monitored the tachometer and temperature gauge on the pedestal and for the first time since we had the new engine, we are actually right a breath below 175 line (165 degrees), which is perfect! There IS something wrong with the old water pump. What we don’t know, but the temperature is exactly where it should be, not about 10 degrees hotter, which wasn’t seen since before the engine rebuild. Once we get to Florida, Pete wants to have the old water pump rebuilt to keep us a spare because we usually only get maybe four or five years out of it. I think it’s a great idea especially since currently there’s a 20-week wait for a new one.
It was 3 o’clock when we made the decision to head to Coinjock tomorrow. I called and made sure we’re on the list. The dock master will be calling in the morning. He has been extremely patient with us having to have canceled at least four times. I have always given him plenty of leeway time as I call him as soon as we know we have an issue. This way he’s not left hanging for the space. With the amount of traffic we see go through here heading to Coinjock. I am sure he’s 100% if not 120% full. Using both sides of the canal and even doubling up on some of the smaller boats. He knows, and I will be reminding him in the morning, that we don’t mind doubling up however we have to be able to get the dog off in the morning. We also need to leave at first light as the trip to Belhaven will take us about 12 hours and that is all the daylight we have this time of year.. We don’t have a problem being on the opposite side of the canal. In fact it’s easier to leave from there.
Today is Halloween, but I doubt we’re gonna see any trick-or-treaters. The only kids we see are the high schoolers who come down around 5:30 to do their sculling past us here at the marina.
Dan sent photos of the flooding around their home in Rockhall. The water has overflowed their property and the streets. Many photos of Annapolis show much of the waterfront is underwater. Reports are that the tide is 4-foot above normal!
When we dropped off our car to Castle Harbor Marina prior to our heading south from Deltaville. time constraints didn't allow for us to untie and move his bike plus the 2 empty gas tanks tied to the pilings into storage. Pete just realized our dock is mostly submerged. That means the bike is submerged and the 2 empty gas cans tied to the piling on the dock might have broken loose and possibly floated away. If so, I hope they are adopted by someone who could use them. It’s another mystery.
Around 12:30, Tim came aboard with the new water pump. He spent the next hour installing it. He looked at the old one and it didn’t look like it had any issues. When we started up the engine, everything worked fine. The tachometer is still bouncing a little bit, but numerous mechanics have said that when you first start an engine, it could bounce around. It stabilized as we ran the engine longer. Tim shot the engine with the laser thermometer and everything looked wonderful and cool (165 degrees). Pete monitored the tachometer and temperature gauge on the pedestal and for the first time since we had the new engine, we are actually right a breath below 175 line (165 degrees), which is perfect! There IS something wrong with the old water pump. What we don’t know, but the temperature is exactly where it should be, not about 10 degrees hotter, which wasn’t seen since before the engine rebuild. Once we get to Florida, Pete wants to have the old water pump rebuilt to keep us a spare because we usually only get maybe four or five years out of it. I think it’s a great idea especially since currently there’s a 20-week wait for a new one.
It was 3 o’clock when we made the decision to head to Coinjock tomorrow. I called and made sure we’re on the list. The dock master will be calling in the morning. He has been extremely patient with us having to have canceled at least four times. I have always given him plenty of leeway time as I call him as soon as we know we have an issue. This way he’s not left hanging for the space. With the amount of traffic we see go through here heading to Coinjock. I am sure he’s 100% if not 120% full. Using both sides of the canal and even doubling up on some of the smaller boats. He knows, and I will be reminding him in the morning, that we don’t mind doubling up however we have to be able to get the dog off in the morning. We also need to leave at first light as the trip to Belhaven will take us about 12 hours and that is all the daylight we have this time of year.. We don’t have a problem being on the opposite side of the canal. In fact it’s easier to leave from there.
~ ~ ~ /) ~ ~ K & P
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