April 25, 2014 (PICTURES TO BE ADDED AT A LATER DATE)
Our friends, Ed and Cheryl, had planned on making the journey across the Gulf Stream with us. However, ten minutes before our departure time, a phone call from them informing us something came up that needed their attention at home, prohibited them from making the trip. We had originally planned on navigating across the “Stream” by ourselves, so their absence gave us the opportunity go back to plan A, though we were sorely disappointed we would not have their company.
The weather was perfect to make the crossing. We were greeted by a gorgeous sunrise as we passed through the Palm Beach Inlet. The warmth that came with the sunrise, the baby blue skies, and the calm water of the royal blue Atlantic Ocean, encouraged our passage making. We had only traveled a few miles when we saw dolphins playing in the water not far from our boat. Half way across the Gulf Stream, we had a guest fly in to visit for a while. The little bird apparently felt at ease with us; and, in line with our custom, we offered our guest food and drink.
It took us 9 3/4 hours to make the crossing. Thankfully, it was uneventful, i.e, no problems. We wanted to stop at the fuel dock on our way to our designated boat slip and we were asked to wait in the turning basin ( a large area of water designated for boats to maneuver or turn to another direction, usually for large ships when the turning basin is at an inlet). We were reminded of “island time”, as it took an hour wait before we were able to get to the dock for fuel. And then it took another hour to get our fuel, pay the attendant (we felt sorry for the poor guy who was doing the work of three persons), clear customs, and get into our boat slip. Those last two hours were the most tiring part of the trip.
Gary got White Swan hooked up to shore power (electricity) so we could have air conditioning for the night. We enjoyed the cool air and a cold drink before showering. We had a twofold reason for a celebratory dinner at the marina’s restaurant – celebrating my birthday (which really is tomorrow), and, our first time to cross the Gulf Stream by ourselves. Hooray for the Glenns.
Adventures on White Swan
