We arrived in Beaufort, NC, on Wed after a fast 400nm, 48hr run via the rough and tumble Gulf Stream from Daytona, FL area. Thursday we started our transit up the ICW and arrived in Belhaven, NC on Fri afternoon. Had pot luck dinner and appetizers with the marina folks this evening. Several folks from Virginia, Maryland, DC, New York, Toledo Beach (where we bought our boat) etc, all the places we have been, were here. Funny what a small world it is. Saturday we motored up in the increasing cold to the Alligator River Marina, NC and stayed there for two days as Sunday brought even colder temps, strong winds and a bit of rain. Monday it was on to Coinjock, NC. Tuesday off for Hampton VA, then Wednesday finally the run for home with warmer, south winds forecasted for the Chesapeake.
The ICW has its own set of dangers. A very narrow channel you have to stay within; lots of boat traffic to avoid, and confusing channel markers that switch each time you transition between the true ICW and channels to/from the ocean. Just north of Beaufort we had to navigate through several fishing trawlers working the waterway. Seems like it was the opening day of oyster season??
Genny, however, with her built-in fur coat, is very happy to be back in the cool and smooth ICW. With a nice cushion, comfy pillow, on-time meals and two ear scratchers at your beck and call. And, the potty is just a short walk up forward with no 6ft seas to contend with. What could be nicer.
