Sailing to Pirates Cove

On Friday afternoon, we set sail for West River and spent the night at Pirates Cove.  This was Jamie's first trip since his surgery.  We had beautiful weather for our trip south.  We sailed 19 NM in 10 KT winds and an adverse current.  Here we are just NW of Thomas Point Light. 

The crab pots were plentiful and must be avoided.  The last thing I need is my rudder or prop fouled. 

After tying up at Pirates Cove, we tidied up the boat and Jamie ordered food from the restaurant.  We enjoyed a few sundowners while Jamie ate his fried shrimp.  Afterwards, Eileen and I walked to Thursday's, a dock bar/restaurant down the road a bit. 

On Saturday morning, Eileen and I went for a walk around the sleepy little town, Galesville.  We came across this park which was quite nice. This poem was mounted on a boulder at the entrance, but neither of us get it.  So, if someone wants to explain it, the comment section is below!!!

This was a little antique shop in town.  We thought the tea pot totem pole was unique! 

On Saturday, we woke up to a stiff breeze of 20 kts out of the north. I put a reef in the main while in West River, before we hit the open water of the Chesapeake. Eileen said, you should put in a double reef.  While I was considering it, we were hit with a gust which made us heel considerably.  I instantly put in the double reef!  Pictured above is Domingoman's main under double reef.  The head of the main is about 3/4 of the way up the mast. With the proper sail plan, it makes for a much more comfortable sail. 

Eileen took the helm a lot early on.  She typically doesn't like to sail the boat in rough conditions, but she did an amazing job.  I think she almost liked it....almost!

The air temp was on the cool side on Saturday and was the first time I had to wear long sleeves since spring! Eileen found a comfortable spot on the port sole.  The wind dropped to 15 kts and I shook one reef in the main and unfurled the genoa a little more.  Still balanced and sailing at an impressive 6.8 kts.  The main would stay reefed for the entire trip, but we later sailed under full genoa.

At this point, we were heeled at 30 degrees.  Shiloh found her spot on the low side in the sun and had a nice nap.  Jamie was down below for the trip home.

It was a great trip, one I didn't expect.  Eileen had called me at work on Friday and said..."what do you think about going on a family sailing trip this weekend?"  I didn't have to think too long!  Thanks for a great weekend Eileen!