Wednesday 11 June and we set off for Annapolis, the first stop on our journey to our planned starting point for our 300 NM passage. Unfortunately, when we arrived the forecast was for dangerous thunderstorms, flooding and lightning, and with all the new electronics on the boat, we agreed it was better to wait for a change in the weather. Annapolis is a great location for a forced stopover – two amazing chandleries kept William and Karen amused, and a trip to the local shopping mall allowed for some retail therapy, and a reminder of why we choose to spend our time at sea.


annapolis ducks The full moon meant a high tide and the local ducks enjoyed an unexpected swim along the harbour roads. The crew enjoyed an unexpected Pusser’s Rum in the harbour pub – the next one will be on Tortola!


By Friday morning, we were ready to go. We revised our passage plan to leave from Annapolis, sail out of the bay through the shipping channels early the following morning, allowing for a good day sailing in the Atlantic, then work our way back north to Solomon’s Island overnight to arrive by Sunday morning.


sunrise

After a second night at sea, and a variety of weather conditions to test the boat and crew, a beautiful sunrise greeted us as the swell calmed and we motored the last miles towards Solomon’s Island, a hot shower, and a good rest.


drum light


The crew were allowed some R&R, which for the Skipper and Mate meant a review of the boat and “to-do” list, plus phone calls to family, and for the Crew meant yet another chandlery to visit on the marina bikes, and a trip around Drum Lighthouse.


We all agreed it was a very useful two days, learning about the boat and how she handles in different conditions, and how we would work together over the long passage to the Virgin Islands.


Worton Creek shakedown cruise