After a relaxing lay day exploring Elizabeth City’s restored old homes, visiting the library and splicing some lines we departed at 0630. The engine wasn’t happy about starting and there was a terrible whine from the engine compartment. Looks like the fan that vents hot air from the engine wasn’t quite round anymore, so we…

Today’s passage was only four hours, so we decided to enjoy the cool of the morning at anchor. The picture is of last night’s sunset. We had a little difficulty raising the anchor as the chain caught the fluke of the spare anchor on the way up. It didn’t take long to straighten out and…

Earl Quick helped us change the dinghy and ladder so it was easier to retrieve. Also mounted the LCD panel so we can see the computer screen in the cockpit. This allows us to see where we are on an electronic chart and it repeats all the instrument information. Earl, Craig, Jim & Barb all…

So this is the day that seven years of planning and preparation come to fruition. We are on a year-long  sabbatical where we can sail and explore while teaching our son third grade along the way. Leaving from Northwest Creek Marina in New Bern, North Carolina, the plan is to go up the East Coast,…