tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9231305082103787712024-03-13T19:47:51.800-04:00Argon VoyagesFollow Linda and Bob as they sail their Tartan 4000, Argon in New England, The Caribbean and everywhere betweenBob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-65544399011610291982020-04-09T20:12:00.003-04:002020-09-09T21:47:13.195-04:00Cruising Under the Cloud of the Coronavirus, ContinuedEvery day seems to present more constriction...<br />
<ul>
<li>marinas confine arriving crew to their vessels; and many close to transients altogether</li>
<li>conducive weather windows become few and far between impeding progress up the east coast </li>
<li>temperatures drop as higher latitudes are achieved</li>
<li>our chests tighten as we examine the statistics each day </li>
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And although we have been focused on getting us and <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2020/04/cruising-with-coronavirus.html" target="_blank">Argon back home to Newport, Rhode Island safely and quickly since departing San Juan mid March</a>, we concede. For now. We are tired physically and emotionally. Yesterday Argon's dock lines were doubled, a couple of bags were packed, and we boarded an Amtrak train for our land home in Newport.<br />
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<img height="80px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
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To help combat the disappointment, Bob updates our Google Earth track. When I look at how far we have come in just a few weeks, (yellow) I don't feel as defeated.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red: Course over 5 months November through March (Grenada to San Juan). Yellow: Course in just over 3 weeks mid March through early April (San Juan to Hampton, VA). Green: Remaining leg to be sailed later in spring or early summer (Hampton, VA to Newport, RI). </td></tr>
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<h3>
Passage #4: Charleston, South Carolina to Beaufort, North Carolina</h3>
<h4>
One of our worst overnights</h4>
While in Charleston, Bob spent several hours re-examining the depth and bridge data of the Intercoastal Waterway (ICW) to see if there was a segment we could transit but our mast is just a tad too tall. We reached out to Argon's builder to confirm the exact specs, and considered climbing up the mast to flip the VHF antennae upside down and remove the tricolor navigation light to cut off several inches. But the measurements remained too close and the thought of the complications should we hit a bridge resulted in us continuing to use the open ocean path. <br />
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After much studying of possible inlet options and weather data, we pushed off the dock in Charleston before sunrise and caught an ebbing tide to quickly make our way out to the open Atlantic Ocean for the 225nm sail to the northeast. We expected a uncomfortable overnight with 15-17kt winds from the northwest. However, the forecast was a bit off in the wrong direction... we were instead rudely greeted by 22-28kt winds with more of a northerly component than westerly hence wayforward of the beam in growing seas. For about 5 hours starting a 0100 we were getting hammered. Waves jumped over the bow and port side regularly. Initially we sailed with a double reefed main and just a sliver of jib. But eventually we furled the foresail up completely and motored sailed with just a bit of the main to make better headway towards Beaufort.<br />
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By daybreak conditions improved, and even became ideal as if the recent difficulties were just a dream. Or a nightmare. Motoring in to idyllic Beaufort inlet further helped us recover.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjh4tA_Jg1gUbS8lzyMfUAGb_sMX09kJA4cDLiDKNccB3kcU18n__qJ5eEdWk0YTM0S6FK9HyfC_O7lpIN0zyS-k-T_EKF-9loIhAow5nzY39wokXjVNRprduQkqV7q_2x1QmR3Z9gQSo/s1600/IMG_20200402_064456.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjh4tA_Jg1gUbS8lzyMfUAGb_sMX09kJA4cDLiDKNccB3kcU18n__qJ5eEdWk0YTM0S6FK9HyfC_O7lpIN0zyS-k-T_EKF-9loIhAow5nzY39wokXjVNRprduQkqV7q_2x1QmR3Z9gQSo/s400/IMG_20200402_064456.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise upon departing Charleston inlet.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy0Bii1VKNlsjbqcfkQtWab7JkdAn16u9o-RFe8XY4JjN-DI7gfl-62fGhyyyXIrN2s1Tutp9uTJ6zvBgZW2mEclHRLzPP28NlZX6EYYEn-Nmwsx-h-OrwKczFd6XfoHnVZv9PkQoY25w/s1600/IMG_20200402_071311.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy0Bii1VKNlsjbqcfkQtWab7JkdAn16u9o-RFe8XY4JjN-DI7gfl-62fGhyyyXIrN2s1Tutp9uTJ6zvBgZW2mEclHRLzPP28NlZX6EYYEn-Nmwsx-h-OrwKczFd6XfoHnVZv9PkQoY25w/s400/IMG_20200402_071311.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cockpit enclosed and layered up. Conditions would kick up later in the journey.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFR_Zup7uKwZdrFVytl3TRf9KQQORqyv075Jd1eCJ3kiiqcyhD16cJxA_-suFmDWYMObACA_m5MI_7dk5WDnEHlLTB6pDra_HL56h-PPCFxvhFMtmhKnfKAPPTT-DwH2Ko0LZYT3ugQ9U/s1600/Screenshot_20200401-171756.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFR_Zup7uKwZdrFVytl3TRf9KQQORqyv075Jd1eCJ3kiiqcyhD16cJxA_-suFmDWYMObACA_m5MI_7dk5WDnEHlLTB6pDra_HL56h-PPCFxvhFMtmhKnfKAPPTT-DwH2Ko0LZYT3ugQ9U/s640/Screenshot_20200401-171756.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Much nastier than predicted.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0HpTjWdOmLRnijAsXV3ZuMZ1XAzEDeRMw8ZPERGaOdBFQuO2EWVA94qp6wl0Mav9lcBiFiTP5eoU67oaCsOtpk2gBIpA7nBvkzX-G_LOh8qoDMz3f1nmq1BnNWtxwypZOSk8njTOYsgA/s1600/91558764_10217396687453027_7622592083018121216_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0HpTjWdOmLRnijAsXV3ZuMZ1XAzEDeRMw8ZPERGaOdBFQuO2EWVA94qp6wl0Mav9lcBiFiTP5eoU67oaCsOtpk2gBIpA7nBvkzX-G_LOh8qoDMz3f1nmq1BnNWtxwypZOSk8njTOYsgA/s400/91558764_10217396687453027_7622592083018121216_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salt salt salt everywhere. Glad to have copious amounts of free water for a much needed cleaning.</td></tr>
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We were generally confined to the marina in Beaufort with the exception of a walk through town and a cockpit visit with local friends. The town of Beaufort has closed off all incoming roads except for one with a checkpoint to prohibit non-residents from entering. And after a particularly cold night aboard, we were able to borrow a very warm thick blanket from local friends.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibXxwUtOqEWXguosHtVccp0yF5m2D1AWLCXk8Qx7CMAYCyURH_tg7pue8_Mk8f3ZG9DLucLM3Ir5LSoY8VclzADXIlwJ3RgrQCEiFJssO-r8LQeW1ymahWXPmVUM2Tb7_eKAQw2X9dl10/s1600/IMG_20200405_113808.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibXxwUtOqEWXguosHtVccp0yF5m2D1AWLCXk8Qx7CMAYCyURH_tg7pue8_Mk8f3ZG9DLucLM3Ir5LSoY8VclzADXIlwJ3RgrQCEiFJssO-r8LQeW1ymahWXPmVUM2Tb7_eKAQw2X9dl10/s400/IMG_20200405_113808.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mostly confined to the docks but with very comfortable surroundings at Homer Smith Marina in Beaufort inlet. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRH_sjgyv26Mr65TodRghiyLXAlKITOabQQSEc2aAxddchnplyJWAc-IIjR8HWwZ43JDe-mplpMTv4F875FCwFDF-bH_AJkYkWME87Ux6nEJz7rHjq_AGnYwN-y2AS8nPe72JjDjFCJs/s1600/20200404_100547.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRH_sjgyv26Mr65TodRghiyLXAlKITOabQQSEc2aAxddchnplyJWAc-IIjR8HWwZ43JDe-mplpMTv4F875FCwFDF-bH_AJkYkWME87Ux6nEJz7rHjq_AGnYwN-y2AS8nPe72JjDjFCJs/s400/20200404_100547.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thankful to have a wide cockpit to allow an appropriately distanced visit from a dear local friend.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLEU4yIsBXjPdYDgu0y2A4tY5k-n7XWOLFgFmGR85zSNVtnZh-OEWCAjDS_WE7DpAnFaxjAlw5l1Y2NW3AbP3P_BfamBH3a5pGj1_VZoXValE7WCMyUQWfzcFYge_qJeloK_pb7ssISE/s1600/IMG_20200403_180629.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLEU4yIsBXjPdYDgu0y2A4tY5k-n7XWOLFgFmGR85zSNVtnZh-OEWCAjDS_WE7DpAnFaxjAlw5l1Y2NW3AbP3P_BfamBH3a5pGj1_VZoXValE7WCMyUQWfzcFYge_qJeloK_pb7ssISE/s400/IMG_20200403_180629.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our one walk off the marina property revealed a ghost town.</td></tr>
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<h3>
Passage #5: Beaufort, North Carolina to Hampton, Virginia</h3>
<h4>
Threatening thunderstorms </h4>
After just a few days in Beaufort, we departed to take advantage of an acceptable but not quite ideal short weather window for the tricky passage out and around Cape Hatteras. The front end of this passage would have very light winds and flat seas requiring motoring which at this point neither of us minded... we are in delivery mode and are looking to get miles underneath the hull. Then some comfortable sailing with more motoring at the end. However, thunderstorms were also in the forecast and they hit when we were just off Hatteras. Ugh.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1oFu9MUeTBjxZaB90FjIlHlbo6pS9j43T0TjLMG82jSm9ftJCZ3_GnMv1C4f2AT-sF35QCcFunSb2nH-1KUaTN9_xZs10Rgr4z2mW6jDKVdccgEOyU-Dvnjo9O3wshHBrTv_-FRCKK0/s1600/P1110113.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="1600" height="95" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1oFu9MUeTBjxZaB90FjIlHlbo6pS9j43T0TjLMG82jSm9ftJCZ3_GnMv1C4f2AT-sF35QCcFunSb2nH-1KUaTN9_xZs10Rgr4z2mW6jDKVdccgEOyU-Dvnjo9O3wshHBrTv_-FRCKK0/s400/P1110113.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely Beaufort waterfront as we motored slowly in the narrow, shallow channel against a flooding tide.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2B-UOaDDlMrN6dzB6EkxXHTZk_xgzwJOqp-Tmag3HJ17Dee2OmQOYXyslzDCWQ9jmsRkc9l3jr-IFfrb6gxHPyuFjyX9jEVX4HYgVbJ4u973ULvzAtSG3USx7I0XOuUXncdIxD4tOTU/s1600/P1110165.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2B-UOaDDlMrN6dzB6EkxXHTZk_xgzwJOqp-Tmag3HJ17Dee2OmQOYXyslzDCWQ9jmsRkc9l3jr-IFfrb6gxHPyuFjyX9jEVX4HYgVbJ4u973ULvzAtSG3USx7I0XOuUXncdIxD4tOTU/s400/P1110165.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful yet menacing weather system approaching as we near Cape Hatteras.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qgRF6pfM25GkraJvaqybAg5Hmr8XGZ7_4pwNH7c-zFp1TYjcqbPfH3WbF0PmKwTY2gS6ca_76ayQGtD-EWlZeSuBZF2j5PszWN-qJIm6gtYZ6kTgbCYfK8u-qA301VjWwEUw1Pq3i0s/s1600/Screenshot_20200406-182712_Wunderground.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qgRF6pfM25GkraJvaqybAg5Hmr8XGZ7_4pwNH7c-zFp1TYjcqbPfH3WbF0PmKwTY2gS6ca_76ayQGtD-EWlZeSuBZF2j5PszWN-qJIm6gtYZ6kTgbCYfK8u-qA301VjWwEUw1Pq3i0s/s640/Screenshot_20200406-182712_Wunderground.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VHF weather alert announces a band of severe thunderstorms some with up to 60kt gusts. We prepare the boat and ourselves to get hammered. Luckily the strongest ones passed to our south leaving us with heavy rain, quite a bit of lightening, but modest winds and no hail.</td></tr>
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As we watched the menacing storm approach from the northwest, we noticed a commercial boat on AIS about 17 miles to our northwest likely in the front. Bob radioed the vessel <i>Red Hook</i> and spoke to the Captain who was now experiencing our future weather. We were relieved when he said the conditions were moderate with just 20 knot gusts and a little bit of rain.<br />
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The line of thunderstorms eventually passed over us without too much trouble. There was lightning around, but not too close. Still, it was a relief when we started seeing the lightning on our starboard side going away from us!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After a nerve wracking early evening, I settle in for a long night watch. These off shore passages are tiring and are now also quite cold. Despite many layers I was freezing by the end of my shift and quickly crawled under the thick comforter recently borrowed from friends in Beaufort.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8VyLz7C6NKEi03XrflSYN_Y3jO6tiAQnhjnOBB41QSiZ0AwRkIITeLxr1hFlk2Kak5MBxlj3q382xtSZ1YOP8L0DobrwCX_ElXyzGng3nZGbFWgtqUaONVlSBESSmHin9_bbAPywrUI/s1600/IMG_20200407_055226%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8VyLz7C6NKEi03XrflSYN_Y3jO6tiAQnhjnOBB41QSiZ0AwRkIITeLxr1hFlk2Kak5MBxlj3q382xtSZ1YOP8L0DobrwCX_ElXyzGng3nZGbFWgtqUaONVlSBESSmHin9_bbAPywrUI/s400/IMG_20200407_055226%257E2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thankful for the spectacular glowing full moon that lit up the night sky when the clouds permitted. </td></tr>
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<h3>
Closing Argon Up and Heading Home</h3>
Many of the marinas and yacht clubs in Virginia and Maryland were now closed to transients. We were able to confirm a slip at Bluewater Marina in Hampton with the caveat that we could either only stay a couple of days, or we could keep the boat there but we could not stay aboard. Nothing personal. <sigh><br />
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Friends with more sophisticated weather analysis skills as well as our hired weather router all confirmed that there would likely be no acceptable weather window for the 60 hour sail from Hampton to Newport, Rhode Island. We discussed options at length... stay on the boat and wait (but we would have to find another marina... problematic). Or go home with the plan to return in late spring or early summer after the coronavirus situation settles down and weather patterns improve. We decided on the latter. And then we evaluated if we should transit by train, plane or automobile. I'll spare you the details but for several reasons we returned home by rail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosTFXqRfatc6iKunskHSpUeMgt5WumN4IAbWuT6xwUjA28-79319ZYxDymVwEYn9149jpZbve7AHbj6P4EpoHjLvnK1k5FVfH2t2mMLuD44DQU8CZhW5pqF0koNWpCB5v75vtK0ETarQ/s1600/20200408_174137.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosTFXqRfatc6iKunskHSpUeMgt5WumN4IAbWuT6xwUjA28-79319ZYxDymVwEYn9149jpZbve7AHbj6P4EpoHjLvnK1k5FVfH2t2mMLuD44DQU8CZhW5pqF0koNWpCB5v75vtK0ETarQ/s400/20200408_174137.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plenty of lines and fenders secured. Hatches, helms and console all covered with canvas.And local sailing friends have kindly agreed to check in on Argon.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7dtBTsFHNC3H1ffcHbpeNYCRMuEn8ECIL7rVXo9IpV9u-eEKS7J1A_H41Sq2y0vKehh6uOisIUx-9YHUfVOu7sUZeaG4ZZV1nTcBbFxJZRDleJFfIYUnudT7C4BFObFOc7ZMQWY-zvWQ/s1600/20200409_044509.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7dtBTsFHNC3H1ffcHbpeNYCRMuEn8ECIL7rVXo9IpV9u-eEKS7J1A_H41Sq2y0vKehh6uOisIUx-9YHUfVOu7sUZeaG4ZZV1nTcBbFxJZRDleJFfIYUnudT7C4BFObFOc7ZMQWY-zvWQ/s400/20200409_044509.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We have the entire Amtrak car to ourselves for the 12 hour comfortable ride to Kingston, RI. After walking up several cars to the cafe, I saw only two other riders.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
Now What?</h3>
We have been quite socially isolated these past several weeks with minimal interaction and contact with others. However we have been far from bored as it has been extremely busy with passage planning complicated with the evolving coronavirus situation as well as the overall logistics and falling temperatures. The time on passages is mostly filled with either sailing the boat or trying to sleep given it is just the two of us (these have not been relaxing wine and cheese sails). Our social isolation has not involved any binge watching of Netflix, nor playing board games, nor experimenting with exotic dishes and no Zoom meet ups. It's been busy and we're exhausted!<br />
<br />
Upon arriving at the Amtrak station in Rhode Island, we were greeted by the friendly albeit official National Guard to record our information for the RI Department of Health and instruct us on a two week quarantine which is really just a slightly more strict adherence to social isolation. (The state of RI was an early adopter of fairly strict guidance and requirements.) Perhaps it's finally time to check out that Tiger King guy I've been hearing about.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsb3mD8X5wps2cYd5qyQCWGTlUbHovhbq0zutGAPpzyYZcFQhRbArkz0QmKDadSalpVXsvGeUqPndyYYVu8TKY_WLmPS6x6sNxYtyLc_IjJJ2_NM4xCQlBjvAK0RcsDU4Io7VMyDIQh8/s1600/FB_IMG_1586018776216.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1349" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsb3mD8X5wps2cYd5qyQCWGTlUbHovhbq0zutGAPpzyYZcFQhRbArkz0QmKDadSalpVXsvGeUqPndyYYVu8TKY_WLmPS6x6sNxYtyLc_IjJJ2_NM4xCQlBjvAK0RcsDU4Io7VMyDIQh8/s400/FB_IMG_1586018776216.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quarantine order for mariners arriving in Newport Harbor. The spirit of these requirements also apply to those arriving in Rhode Island by land from other states.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXkzlcTwi-AGYx8xPgfc9ah1XtvgvkDPYM320WienT6pVADr0S1eMg1dxfeWFD13eJs9vNYac0r7Bo6f952SuKy86i003lHuaaEChl_P28cTJtU-dSQTgJQaleNRNHHLEBjv1zBtYtzeY/s1600/20200409_044659.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXkzlcTwi-AGYx8xPgfc9ah1XtvgvkDPYM320WienT6pVADr0S1eMg1dxfeWFD13eJs9vNYac0r7Bo6f952SuKy86i003lHuaaEChl_P28cTJtU-dSQTgJQaleNRNHHLEBjv1zBtYtzeY/s400/20200409_044659.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good bye protected boat life. Hello land life in the COVID-19 age.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bVD-G7g8iXccQhGu8XV8opHoacTHEdbZyHUuKBxcTWKPHNvJfx9iz6oY8B5OjbG2gZK7qG96fnlh4EKCaE0sSEQ9HZvcC5mz_fPQiLrRCBET0AezUfA-NI1Do3IET5kqrN3IRx-qhSc/s1600/IMG_20200409_181403.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bVD-G7g8iXccQhGu8XV8opHoacTHEdbZyHUuKBxcTWKPHNvJfx9iz6oY8B5OjbG2gZK7qG96fnlh4EKCaE0sSEQ9HZvcC5mz_fPQiLrRCBET0AezUfA-NI1Do3IET5kqrN3IRx-qhSc/s400/IMG_20200409_181403.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back in our home. I have flowers!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9D9DkWbGEmoVH1GlTqCC9rNZh2hyphenhyphenBONPrCQECbUNhKig_eVDNgjiBK_2GJEpOM1Dw3UZ4RrQcOsi6yHk-UsYAmP30U_ob5eRH-sG5rdTrGrQ1sd8f3mOicSQAuSWqTZzCeuaV40Lc2E/s1600/IMG_20200409_195907.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9D9DkWbGEmoVH1GlTqCC9rNZh2hyphenhyphenBONPrCQECbUNhKig_eVDNgjiBK_2GJEpOM1Dw3UZ4RrQcOsi6yHk-UsYAmP30U_ob5eRH-sG5rdTrGrQ1sd8f3mOicSQAuSWqTZzCeuaV40Lc2E/s400/IMG_20200409_195907.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob's new control surface was waiting for him at home. Just a couple hours after we arrived it was set up and he was in the <a href="https://rockscience.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">recording studio </a>making lots of great noise. I think our neighbors know that we are home now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-86106856321173931812020-04-01T20:35:00.001-04:002020-04-01T21:01:48.137-04:00Cruising Under the Cloud of the CoronavirusWhere to start?... Like for many, these past three weeks have been a whirlwind. Argon's itinerary had her just starting a leisurely month through the Bahamas about now followed by some off shore passages to arrive home in Newport, Rhode Island USA by early June. Instead we find ourselves no longer cruising but in delivery mode currently docked in Charleston, South Carolina digging out long sleeve shirts from the bowels of our closets. <br />
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<div>
<img height="80px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
</div>
<span id="goog_39095842"></span><span id="goog_39095843"></span><br />
<br />
Some seemed surprised when we recently indicated we were ending our island explorations and accelerating our return to the United States. Proclamations of "Stay where you are!" and "The US is a mess!" were shared by many. I can understand why hanging out on a boat in lovely anchorages surrounded by turquoise water can seem like an ideal way to self isolate and implement social distancing. However, as the situation started heating up and becoming more serious in mid March, we so much desired to get home... initially anywhere in the US. And then specifically back to the northeast.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJc1DKO3LGL9VQ0obHGZURhJrdv9yxVdVXGmOTLxNG8TXZFEjdJV1oeBG0EVJVI-D0KneNArZRbIJdqRtEAPjnaeU4dgBjmXzErGmdP7uRF-rPfTcc692-lGlgY-la5_OQT-x_4W6bE0/s1600/2020-03-06_19-00-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="944" data-original-width="753" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJc1DKO3LGL9VQ0obHGZURhJrdv9yxVdVXGmOTLxNG8TXZFEjdJV1oeBG0EVJVI-D0KneNArZRbIJdqRtEAPjnaeU4dgBjmXzErGmdP7uRF-rPfTcc692-lGlgY-la5_OQT-x_4W6bE0/s400/2020-03-06_19-00-01.png" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The red line is our journey from last November (Grenada) to March (Puerto Rico). The yellow is our planned path home. So far away. I longed to be home even with (perhaps especially because of) the brewing troubles back in the US.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1qXgp22xaaL578pR4QglfY6YKOSmIomTjH09dGeowDAhV51OFauqvoKbiOXAJ8HAd5hrUYBkU8oNktstN_-TwzrSuNbbMBAhku9HZD-ZGk0uZywzHSdDwuLm8W-P1y5FK0SKQ9Z5vKw/s1600/IMG_20200319_102947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1qXgp22xaaL578pR4QglfY6YKOSmIomTjH09dGeowDAhV51OFauqvoKbiOXAJ8HAd5hrUYBkU8oNktstN_-TwzrSuNbbMBAhku9HZD-ZGk0uZywzHSdDwuLm8W-P1y5FK0SKQ9Z5vKw/s400/IMG_20200319_102947.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">False impression of an idyllic way to self isolate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Our main reason for wanting to be home is to be closer and more accessible to our kids and other family and friends. In times of difficulty, ones nuclear family is paramount. And while we have been able to stay in very close contact with our kids, we want to be able to quickly get to them should it be needed. (I know... with current restrictions, there is still separation.) But also to be more accessible to reliable medical care should either of us need it. (I know... even this is at risk.) And also to better able to focus on our jobs. (Oh, jeesh... this is precarious, too.)<br />
<br />
As borders began closing, many of our cruising friends find themselves somewhat stuck, unable to freely move about. And unsure when they will be able to return to their homes in Europe, or get out of the hurricane belt. Luckily, we seemed to serendipitously be just ahead of border closures in recent weeks.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTtfyuG59HUwp65mERs6DUTA5Mk9e4tnLh7PW99DsvHInK5p-lyUxE6beXhNT8yhexe6Q7HJqIa0Dy49ZxHhBLPYkZo214dwdA1qWZb17Sos8FxGjUK6hYFffCr_2M5A_NJJBKymO3po/s1600/IMG_20200307_182250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTtfyuG59HUwp65mERs6DUTA5Mk9e4tnLh7PW99DsvHInK5p-lyUxE6beXhNT8yhexe6Q7HJqIa0Dy49ZxHhBLPYkZo214dwdA1qWZb17Sos8FxGjUK6hYFffCr_2M5A_NJJBKymO3po/s400/IMG_20200307_182250.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photos seems from so long ago... We enjoyed one night out on the town in Old San Juan the day after arriving in Puerto Rico. This was around 7 March, just prior to COVID-19 news heating up. We had planned to enjoy Puerto Rico for at least a couple of weeks but truncated that timing substantially.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk3ZE9IwA0TGct5w1BahO8hQClLFLC-XWZ0n7GOqvJllSkmTYvTDVH__WFCMMnElWBqn9DYqn4X45XyQ5h5IHKjn4lj_z8oDrwtGZFI2nJmQ3vi35EovU4wmkvUH55LoYl9skC_vzJBf4/s1600/IMG_20200313_085719%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1372" data-original-width="1600" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk3ZE9IwA0TGct5w1BahO8hQClLFLC-XWZ0n7GOqvJllSkmTYvTDVH__WFCMMnElWBqn9DYqn4X45XyQ5h5IHKjn4lj_z8oDrwtGZFI2nJmQ3vi35EovU4wmkvUH55LoYl9skC_vzJBf4/s400/IMG_20200313_085719%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Within days of our arrival, it became apparent that we needed to set our sights on leaving Puerto Rico requiring many logistics such as provisioning, laundry, and propane. In addition to getting the boat ready for an off shore passage.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We cut our time short in Puerto Rico as reports of virus spread
increased setting our sights on Bahamas. The day before departure, we started hearing rumors that
Bahamas was closing their boarders. However, I could not find anything
on line to substantiate. So we left on a 3 day passage to the remote
island of Inagua (southern Bahamas between Dominican Republic and Cuba) not knowing if we would be allowed in the country.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7IMnedKJRVSoL9NNgTueI6xKKqBNpWQvNMk4N8W8CVg3OMTfJuWAqEe6NohPz1j5rJLwDYGyPqIcvqlpCJkEbmUadcd09s47-HqEXePGFSjqkT8zRc31xON90wNKcW9L9c7fC7gdejEc/s1600/Screenshot_20200315-184533.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7IMnedKJRVSoL9NNgTueI6xKKqBNpWQvNMk4N8W8CVg3OMTfJuWAqEe6NohPz1j5rJLwDYGyPqIcvqlpCJkEbmUadcd09s47-HqEXePGFSjqkT8zRc31xON90wNKcW9L9c7fC7gdejEc/s400/Screenshot_20200315-184533.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shortly after leaving Puerto Rico, while still barely in cell data range, our phone alarms started announcing curfew orders. We had a strange feeling of escaping just in time. But we were also unsure of what were were escaping to.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<h3>
Off Shore Passage #1: San Juan, Puerto Rico to Inagua</h3>
<h4>
15-18 March 2020 </h4>
<br />
<br />
A veil of worry hung over us during the passage as we wondered how things were evolving back in the states. In addition, we were unsure what to expect when trying to clear customs in the Bahamas.<br />
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<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpFJ9GqRyGqxBC98LR7WMQ7SznNx6X4o7hibXvPlfJCLqns68W-fwI7oLosZ3u1_BiFjw2J9y_uPhdy5oAZQ2GMVTVlMFQKb7ocTRXr1FVBgZf_BXr0M_VkaAYRCbM-m5XyFnFCIBmtw/s1600/IMG_20200317_124145%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpFJ9GqRyGqxBC98LR7WMQ7SznNx6X4o7hibXvPlfJCLqns68W-fwI7oLosZ3u1_BiFjw2J9y_uPhdy5oAZQ2GMVTVlMFQKb7ocTRXr1FVBgZf_BXr0M_VkaAYRCbM-m5XyFnFCIBmtw/s400/IMG_20200317_124145%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close reaching in 15kts of winds with clear skies and warm days.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr1MGpPy3KnkB6jdTaOTuxsWHAWLgvk7MLRAG38rfXcX3CycpXBlbwPWN2W3xjx_APO4PLrgVDW9Snnlt51foy-EL1fM8UHf8heSBZrZihl2W3KTD7cmdZdvzOIAxJ8LknjPBgQEeOjss/s1600/IMG_20200317_185824%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr1MGpPy3KnkB6jdTaOTuxsWHAWLgvk7MLRAG38rfXcX3CycpXBlbwPWN2W3xjx_APO4PLrgVDW9Snnlt51foy-EL1fM8UHf8heSBZrZihl2W3KTD7cmdZdvzOIAxJ8LknjPBgQEeOjss/s400/IMG_20200317_185824%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first night was quite jaunty but beautiful with a bit of moonlight and starlight.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsFj7vzDgSOG5G-9FSu1Cfh1n_ZiBmUM-MNQBszESKTyLvmVExVr9nb9JF9_agn8fkfW9oQReWy2QYQE15svKF8K6EVHHW2fcWRATE6BGLjXYJSW6ZM1q4q5u6pRYqSuTYZLW5sDjSJI/s1600/IMG_20200317_194727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsFj7vzDgSOG5G-9FSu1Cfh1n_ZiBmUM-MNQBszESKTyLvmVExVr9nb9JF9_agn8fkfW9oQReWy2QYQE15svKF8K6EVHHW2fcWRATE6BGLjXYJSW6ZM1q4q5u6pRYqSuTYZLW5sDjSJI/s400/IMG_20200317_194727.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thankful to be almost through the third night and nearing our destination.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Upon arrival in Inagua, we lowered the dinghy from the davits and mounted the outboard. I ventured to shore and walked about a mile up the road. The customs and immigration offices were clearly taking the COVID-19 situation seriously immediately requiring hand sanitation and keeping a clear physical distance. After a detailed health affidavit, the normal boat and crew questions, and $300 for the cruising permit, Argon was cleared in to the Bahamas - we were relieved. Initially.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiArtG6X-higcNUDgoOVmz1YwgH8IWx-1rUawVE1HnUpVl7BpRb_jjkI0zcWk2xZWPwBz0rEFe6i_qTCgiaHGRHQ-bvDWB-2EySP2FHvctIXZj6oyRhd-Q7Cf49whvF8K-st86AcoplpGw/s1600/IMG_20200318_130808%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiArtG6X-higcNUDgoOVmz1YwgH8IWx-1rUawVE1HnUpVl7BpRb_jjkI0zcWk2xZWPwBz0rEFe6i_qTCgiaHGRHQ-bvDWB-2EySP2FHvctIXZj6oyRhd-Q7Cf49whvF8K-st86AcoplpGw/s400/IMG_20200318_130808%257E2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wonderful to be anchored in the beautiful Bahamian water.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP2VhLBbDUZc-qpRP4KjcZj82BwnPiwrzha2SgcOjPP93qGH4bQqyARAbCPmfxg4h73NDqtyHVK5lhGeZFPFEYBHj0wF565XWXEkNPRULKw2YT-MWz5yeANYXtfyV34Rh1wYF-QhNhpbk/s1600/IMG_20200318_110502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP2VhLBbDUZc-qpRP4KjcZj82BwnPiwrzha2SgcOjPP93qGH4bQqyARAbCPmfxg4h73NDqtyHVK5lhGeZFPFEYBHj0wF565XWXEkNPRULKw2YT-MWz5yeANYXtfyV34Rh1wYF-QhNhpbk/s400/IMG_20200318_110502.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Challenging dinghy dock requiring traversing this ladder quite a way up to the dock. Luckily it is a well protected little harbor and conditions were mild.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ334rf3gQ4qwIgE0_n9bUE95Q0ZH3P5fI2ij5Khd-U_1Xuv5alHr9JL_pF0chWRFOf03xakVGJy5tAC3OQYCigAvdNLSQFHRKWYeJgM8L8EJKmpJCoPUR1T8LdsouTrb1frJKd9vM9_8/s1600/IMG_20200318_105308.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ334rf3gQ4qwIgE0_n9bUE95Q0ZH3P5fI2ij5Khd-U_1Xuv5alHr9JL_pF0chWRFOf03xakVGJy5tAC3OQYCigAvdNLSQFHRKWYeJgM8L8EJKmpJCoPUR1T8LdsouTrb1frJKd9vM9_8/s400/IMG_20200318_105308.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Customs and Immigration was quite a way up the main (only?) road.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhsA10_nPNuJsSoskC17jWd54aqUDXXvKldhBQb-kAidN1f6lNRuTjb41by1V1kTindyVHMwCvHJvx-8TjRF_5MISAbvplHWrck7IepWg7GShll1qpiHbpe_77Nsw25WnaKrAHrzSMfnw/s1600/IMG_20200318_120118%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhsA10_nPNuJsSoskC17jWd54aqUDXXvKldhBQb-kAidN1f6lNRuTjb41by1V1kTindyVHMwCvHJvx-8TjRF_5MISAbvplHWrck7IepWg7GShll1qpiHbpe_77Nsw25WnaKrAHrzSMfnw/s400/IMG_20200318_120118%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were thrilled to be able to replace the quarantine flag with the Bahamian courtesy flag after clearing customs. But our excitement would be short lived.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Cleared to cruise the Bahamas, we discussed accelerating our travels through the Bahamas making our way from Inagua northward. Bahamas is vast.... Nearly 700 islands and cays sprinkled over a several hundred mile swath of the Atlantic southeast of Florida. Vast areas of extremely shallow waters impede navigation and complicate passages.<br />
<br />
But, not so fast... News reports were coming in. Friends immersed in the healthcare system and epidemiological data in Massachusetts specifically and US generally were sharing very concerning information about likely acceleration of infections, probable widespread closures and border restrictions. We were acutely aware of the complications should either of us (which means likely both) become ill with COVID-19 including perhaps being unable to move the boat to a safe location should a difficult weather system approach. And lack of reliable medical care on these remote islands was worrisome. In addition, these small islands are heavily reliant on their weekly boat deliveries to keep the islands supplied with basics; one disruption can quickly cause challenges. And we needed to be closer to the kids. We wanted to get home, now even faster than before.<br />
<br />
We immediately began to evaluate how we could get to the mainland US more quickly, but safely. First we seriously considered accelerated day hops northward making our way as fast as possible through the Bahamas up to northern Exumas, then over to the east coast of Florida. But instead, we decided on a faster, albeit more tiring, option of another off shore passage to Florida. We set our sights on a decent weather window opening up in just a couple of days.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG75RKT_qF2A3zIsTBw9w0Q89Y3xzKykE_UffFu5yB8yY6Y6dgcqFo84GQZXC3zouF2FsTc-JgCN-vsIOIizRYpDGFZQeND8NvnLzavxW59n2ZlAAEzGxB_iX2MT91mwemeP70P9ghl5g/s1600/IMG_20200318_165355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG75RKT_qF2A3zIsTBw9w0Q89Y3xzKykE_UffFu5yB8yY6Y6dgcqFo84GQZXC3zouF2FsTc-JgCN-vsIOIizRYpDGFZQeND8NvnLzavxW59n2ZlAAEzGxB_iX2MT91mwemeP70P9ghl5g/s400/IMG_20200318_165355.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passage planning began after being at anchor only a day or so.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXigv8Yj9ubqge7F3bc_voZIjtdYpLg_UVurghLD6kgscMyERsbnzQuAmZsIhRdo-GHkDq1PcKZF6PJIYDmSQy87HPoBdpftO6_YW99GFhf6XX8ppGEWz7MULGHWZvDkhwTXiqQaiD8I/s1600/20200321_084552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXigv8Yj9ubqge7F3bc_voZIjtdYpLg_UVurghLD6kgscMyERsbnzQuAmZsIhRdo-GHkDq1PcKZF6PJIYDmSQy87HPoBdpftO6_YW99GFhf6XX8ppGEWz7MULGHWZvDkhwTXiqQaiD8I/s400/20200321_084552.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My final swim in warm turquoise waters.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
Off Shore Passage #2: Inagua to West Palm, Florida</h3>
<h4>
21-23 March 2020 - Now in <i>Get Home</i> mode; the cruise is over </h4>
Our mindset is now very much on getting home... first to anywhere in the US, then to the northeast. Our cruise is over, we are in delivery mode, but that is ok. There are more important things to focus on now.<br />
<br />
The front end of this passage was challenging. But conditions eased a couple of days in and we were happy to motor on calm seas the last leg. When we got in to cell data range approaching Miami, we were dismayed to receive reports of south Florida closing up and restricting entry. We were unsure of the best harbor to target and if we would be able to clear customs or be quarantined. Several sailing friends quickly shared information and we decided to target West Palm. There was reason to think that a more northerly port such as St. Augustine would be easier to clear in to, however we were exhausted and thought it unwise to try to continue on for another day and night. West Palm proved to be just fine.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5HhdzwbooVQRWhDQJXdo0L6pbdO0_v7v3sVUv_5GQ7tZB59X-jkwJ_eDQbw2VlVcZJTNnugVqiFWrpGb-nYYfyD6npTBJIL4dI0VXFQ2G-oODiL6cGEBk98UG7t9qO9d5Ux9US3SeCJ0/s1600/IMG_20200324_001959.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5HhdzwbooVQRWhDQJXdo0L6pbdO0_v7v3sVUv_5GQ7tZB59X-jkwJ_eDQbw2VlVcZJTNnugVqiFWrpGb-nYYfyD6npTBJIL4dI0VXFQ2G-oODiL6cGEBk98UG7t9qO9d5Ux9US3SeCJ0/s400/IMG_20200324_001959.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I usually find the nights on long passages very difficult. I count down the hours until the first glimpses of daybreak.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbpRZjfTop-Ub30IpNyoAG5sLHu8aOITTENCyLJ9k-FVK9fBJVO1GcZOOida_Ph0i07HiDxliNH0rH2WFk9R8g_LlXAPcjla1MHhQVeRw7-sjH0VWE3JQqCmnIMAurHEVjmOlMf7d3B-s/s1600/IMG_20200323_072535%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbpRZjfTop-Ub30IpNyoAG5sLHu8aOITTENCyLJ9k-FVK9fBJVO1GcZOOida_Ph0i07HiDxliNH0rH2WFk9R8g_LlXAPcjla1MHhQVeRw7-sjH0VWE3JQqCmnIMAurHEVjmOlMf7d3B-s/s400/IMG_20200323_072535%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Conditions eased towards the end of the passage.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOXk1P_oLkvvrsoU09ir0owhSXikQDwNkTWK7tMKxBDr4TZ-uLh2Bci9pDo4UNR73my4eyl-nl-itLnrB-3f88WXVq-msr_pGmGknuf-btxJDZOyB23Yv0r7W8AZcWmLHKbD33okmm7s0/s1600/20200324_091522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOXk1P_oLkvvrsoU09ir0owhSXikQDwNkTWK7tMKxBDr4TZ-uLh2Bci9pDo4UNR73my4eyl-nl-itLnrB-3f88WXVq-msr_pGmGknuf-btxJDZOyB23Yv0r7W8AZcWmLHKbD33okmm7s0/s400/20200324_091522.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When in data range of the southeast coast of Florida we start getting reports of Florida closing marinas and forbidding boat traffic. I called ahead to West Palm and was relieved to learn we would be allowed to dock. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0MEhNAfhSTW-tFvUeyUQ8ZHpJ7wg2UWO4aIcOaD9pdmN_9AyC9JknNW6D1rqHsvb-T_w0ObzCpoe2Nw88ZTvnZt_B_xGhSVChLA7laTaZn9U1PsPs6lYBdzL0Ga9QO8ED3tCIsC8YUs/s1600/FB_IMG_1585076402411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0MEhNAfhSTW-tFvUeyUQ8ZHpJ7wg2UWO4aIcOaD9pdmN_9AyC9JknNW6D1rqHsvb-T_w0ObzCpoe2Nw88ZTvnZt_B_xGhSVChLA7laTaZn9U1PsPs6lYBdzL0Ga9QO8ED3tCIsC8YUs/s400/FB_IMG_1585076402411.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And we happily got clearance from customs without the requirement for quarantine!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYcS3th1GpAGWWW03p9Br3r9P0SPTxz6VJky7I_ns8mEihfE-j4htnxYw_fkMTBXKyD6G8zoiorYbS0PRVxN6SPpzgEvhYKn_hg5zgnaCOcM0go25S7KlkrUCueG2uJYYXzYMWdtE8Fbs/s1600/20200324_142915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYcS3th1GpAGWWW03p9Br3r9P0SPTxz6VJky7I_ns8mEihfE-j4htnxYw_fkMTBXKyD6G8zoiorYbS0PRVxN6SPpzgEvhYKn_hg5zgnaCOcM0go25S7KlkrUCueG2uJYYXzYMWdtE8Fbs/s400/20200324_142915.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon docked at Riviera Beach Marina. The area is normally a hot spot of social activities and bustling outdoor restaurants but was eerily quiet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Ec__rYJVPwRNl8C66A4nuT7hG-ZaNJwMjF6tpQt53oOEo1lVYhLu7YM5mkHq5EGF_mfMTDCALd-_j9jNEaoL6jI42FMQLnKwsrDKwZeMS8VxCEL3UYIfdCqMMkPrv_DrLLyWw1rS8xA/s1600/IMG_20200327_071837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Ec__rYJVPwRNl8C66A4nuT7hG-ZaNJwMjF6tpQt53oOEo1lVYhLu7YM5mkHq5EGF_mfMTDCALd-_j9jNEaoL6jI42FMQLnKwsrDKwZeMS8VxCEL3UYIfdCqMMkPrv_DrLLyWw1rS8xA/s400/IMG_20200327_071837.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More passage preparations. Again.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<h3>
Off Shore Passage #3: West Palm, Florida to Charleston, South Carolina</h3>
<h4>
27-29 March 2020 </h4>
Everyday we read the news and examine the epidemiology reports about COVID-19. Our three boys as well as Bob have all had their jobs impacted. Our future daughter-in-law is on the front lines as an ER nurse at a major Boston hospital. Family and friends, well everyone, are all dealing with personal versions of this crisis. We desperately want to be home and are making progress but feel so far away still. We hope to make it to Beaufort, North Carolina next but the upcoming weather window allows us to get only to Charleston, South Carolina.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXLPLG1hZo4UltlaBiudN6QQ2YnVFOWtdup0JStZiWvE1biqFEF-J4eluh-yd_Cr690cJCRhzBhscfqHxxTxXXe42W7acWI7pe9JG7N8LmVLT2cCnjKIMwjV6QzlxCpm-hIN8K-NIZq9U/s1600/IMG_20200327_154433%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXLPLG1hZo4UltlaBiudN6QQ2YnVFOWtdup0JStZiWvE1biqFEF-J4eluh-yd_Cr690cJCRhzBhscfqHxxTxXXe42W7acWI7pe9JG7N8LmVLT2cCnjKIMwjV6QzlxCpm-hIN8K-NIZq9U/s400/IMG_20200327_154433%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still just barely warm enough for shorts at the front end of this passage off the coast of Florida.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkILOe5xehKqiQlx7kpjI7JX_vkPmQ599lgEYyqmK7tQkVgOxA0l7LIGazTuj5HGctMYNkrOKrN1KYDjwZlpfdJhDGmqxPrk_-EqAaYS_az942aVvIO4yWPJYlCeXgSsoQs153G_6dZs/s1600/IMG_20200329_073439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkILOe5xehKqiQlx7kpjI7JX_vkPmQ599lgEYyqmK7tQkVgOxA0l7LIGazTuj5HGctMYNkrOKrN1KYDjwZlpfdJhDGmqxPrk_-EqAaYS_az942aVvIO4yWPJYlCeXgSsoQs153G_6dZs/s400/IMG_20200329_073439.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By day two, we dug out some cold weather gear but do not have much on board as we did not plan to be in these latitudes this early in the season.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
We docked at Charleston City Marina and immediately started thinking and preparing for our next passage. We welcomed the exercise on a one mile walk to a grocery store to a grocery store to secure more provisions. And visited a local sailing friend who lent us some much needed cold weather gear.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbT7zpspdJodToMuP01WFxHWLGWr1qeLpv0mS9yvMpKYbnTPHR1nMT6PayonshHs91-ttvH6Qymu5DSI8GAMzk996QtWZpvbjFDxuAHctijqPKJ-4Fktq0oyRrLs3bzgCW-HYsPV3nXM/s1600/IMG_20200401_180928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbT7zpspdJodToMuP01WFxHWLGWr1qeLpv0mS9yvMpKYbnTPHR1nMT6PayonshHs91-ttvH6Qymu5DSI8GAMzk996QtWZpvbjFDxuAHctijqPKJ-4Fktq0oyRrLs3bzgCW-HYsPV3nXM/s400/IMG_20200401_180928.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thankfully we had the cockpit curtains on board so we can enclose the cockpit during the upcoming colder conditions.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pJM4RNn_Q9a8qqxYF8MU9Ut8DCJiX3DR9yMKOeWkWVyloUMqa7e0z5h_dEwwledP88hixWpfKqnBHbCLft291RdT1g4HGEhAJHK1HzK9oYsqr0J3oC2ed52AhGG5lplkW-nG8kQeK3Q/s1600/IMG_20200331_165110.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pJM4RNn_Q9a8qqxYF8MU9Ut8DCJiX3DR9yMKOeWkWVyloUMqa7e0z5h_dEwwledP88hixWpfKqnBHbCLft291RdT1g4HGEhAJHK1HzK9oYsqr0J3oC2ed52AhGG5lplkW-nG8kQeK3Q/s400/IMG_20200331_165110.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you to a local sailing friend (Greenie!) in Charleston who kindly lent us some of his cold weather gear.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Off Shore Passage #4: Charleston, South Carolina to Beaufort, North Carolina</h3>
<h4>
2-3 April 2020 - planned</h4>
We have done our pre-passage checks, filled the water tanks, checked the weather data again, plotted our points and studied charts (and published the blog). We also had a great chat with the dockmaster from a marina in Beaufort to confirm that they will accept us, albeit under quarantine conditions. We will be restricted to staying on board and on the docks, but that's expected at this point in this pandemic we are all dealing with. And as soon as we arrive, we will again start looking for our next weather window to make the next jump towards home still several hundred miles away.<br />
<br />
Stay well everyone!! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-72992049343614065582020-03-11T08:45:00.000-04:002020-03-11T21:33:57.371-04:00WIFI Aboard: The Network that NotWorked, Works AgainOne of the earliest projects we did on Argon was to install a Wifi network. It consisted of a Ubiquity Bullet m2 Titanium Radio/Router and a Microtik Wireless Access Point. It was our "ArgonAfloat" Wifi network and served us very well. After six years of baking in the sun and freezing in (some) winters - not to mention operating in a salt-air environment, the Bullet finally bit the dust in February while in Anguilla.<br />
<br />
<!-- BOB-->
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
<div>
<img height="80px" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--7ESi4mJKMc/VonLI8VAFjI/AAAAAAAATxA/Ja-wE6H4s0c/s144-Ic42/P1010491.JPG" /></div>
Capt. Bob
</div>
<br />
We considered several options, but at the time finally decided to just do nothing. On this cruise, we rely primarily on mobile data and that will be especially true for the last leg through the Bahamas before we return to the states. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEACaX6mf55ybjh1hG9j0y2-qEjeApRzWHhLbBGuoWXOR_JWXkEyAxK8xV-6rrxu3NyLx3aQJEBdeszoOUTKm9k7TT6V8bsyyW92M2idHs2BQSyImJsOwkVoLYLcJzIHt5Ori0MNwRRc/s1600/2020-03-06_19-00-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="944" data-original-width="753" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEACaX6mf55ybjh1hG9j0y2-qEjeApRzWHhLbBGuoWXOR_JWXkEyAxK8xV-6rrxu3NyLx3aQJEBdeszoOUTKm9k7TT6V8bsyyW92M2idHs2BQSyImJsOwkVoLYLcJzIHt5Ori0MNwRRc/s400/2020-03-06_19-00-01.png" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Line is what we've covered. Yellow is still to go!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With a stop in San Juan, Puerto Rico scheduled before our passage to southern Bahamas, we re-considered if we should replace the gear and get something shipped in. Once again we considered a few options:<br />
<ul>
<li>Just get another bullet (about a hundred bucks plus shipping)</li>
<li>Get a Halo Redport system (about 400 bucks plus shipping)</li>
<li>Get a Rogue Wave Dual-Band Pro and <a href="https://www.wavewifi.com/product/mbr-550" target="_blank">MBR550</a> Router with SIM card (about two grand)</li>
</ul>
You can probably tell by the additional details in one of those lines, which one I did. We got the Cadillac system - <a href="https://www.wavewifi.com/" target="_blank">Wave Wifi </a>stuff from <a href="https://www.defender.com/" target="_blank">Defender in CT</a>. They shipped it to the Marina a few days ahead of when we arrived and it was all here waiting for us.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Why The Splurge? </h3>
We both <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/working-while-cruising.html">work extensively from the boat</a>, so connectivity is very important. The Bullet m2 always worked well, but it is complex to configure and tricky to debug issues with. Also, the old m2 version we had would only see 2.4GHz Wifi. Many times, we could see SSIDs from our laptops down below that the bullet couldn't see up on the radar mast! The Halo system also only works on 2.4GHz systems.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxDayoa10GYWpcqaaqHBP6ff63EcjqIUpQ-H5MvEsJIbHcOqXhmhusBG3UsyItdIjST2MDKvAtFHpGFq0Y4-AAF5lEh7YMF1nu5S9iZ7DSrxr4tSteKGPj8NOozXM-LI0-4xVzu_PV3E/s1600/IMG_20200209_115605%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxDayoa10GYWpcqaaqHBP6ff63EcjqIUpQ-H5MvEsJIbHcOqXhmhusBG3UsyItdIjST2MDKvAtFHpGFq0Y4-AAF5lEh7YMF1nu5S9iZ7DSrxr4tSteKGPj8NOozXM-LI0-4xVzu_PV3E/s400/IMG_20200209_115605%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Removing the dead Bullet Radio in Anguilla</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Wave Wifi makes high-end turn-key systems which are installed on private and charter yachts of all sizes. They offer the <a href="https://www.wavewifi.com/product/rogue-pro-db/" target="_blank">DB (dual band) Pro radio </a>which will work with 2.4 and 5 GHz systems. And they have their own brand of "marine-grade" routers/access points: the MBR500 and MBR550. The difference between these two (besides about $350) is that the 550 has a SIM slot in it and two high-gain Cellular Antennas. Interesting.<br />
<br />
We normally buy two of whatever the local SIM card is and stick them in two different phones. Going forward, we have the option of sticking one in the SIM slot on the router and having that serve our main network. I can remember a few times in the Bahamas a couple of years ago where the BTC mobile signal was a bit weak. Perhaps having the BTC SIM in the router with those fancy Cellular Antennas will give us an edge - we'll see next month. We will have to configure the APN and other parameters for each SIM. I think the trick will be to get them to configure the card in a phone at the store and then use that phone to see which APN to use. It <i>should</i> work. <br />
<br />
The one disadvantage of serving up Mobile Data over our primary network is that we will now need to set the primary network as a <i>Metered network </i>on all of our devices. In the past, it was assumed that if our primary network was working, it was connected to some bar or restaurant near the anchorage. Now, we have to beware that it might be backed by expensive and limited mobile data. Windows10 and Android devices allow setting individual Wifi networks as <i>Metered </i>and as such, will not do super-high-bandwidth nonsense over them.<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
SIM Included</h3>
They do include a T-Mobile SIM and offer several insanely expensive monthly plans. I saw 50GB for $350 and ran screaming. I left it in the SIM slot for now just to prove that it works. Later, we will be sticking local pre-paid SIMs in here and crossing our fingers.<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
More Benefits</h3>
The MBR550 has a series of ports that can work in a fail-over sequence. Out of the box it is configured like this and they even name the ports to make it obvious. Previously, we used a separate router (a cheap tp-link) on our Satellite Terminal for offshore passages. Now, the sat terminal will just plug directly into our primary router and it will automatically fail over to it if the Wifi and Cellular data are down. Simple. Additionally, they provide a means to limit the data on each port. I have set the Satellite port limit to 5MB per day. That will avoid a nasty and expensive "accident" when offshore like we've had in the past. The Satellite data is $10/MB and only used for short text emails, GRIBs and to upload our Track underway for those playing along at home.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyB8J40SipO90QiFGkJKBx5O3pKY6sdf2vpnnkip5JQeLuUyzeW02iIkI8BD7D_zZP9Vo-urPo5O5HRbyxifpCI3FJ7MQMJlY9YwVa474qCnkcpwWxPEUjs60OjoiEijVUmOr4OxUehzc/s1600/2020-03-11_09-09-33.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="919" height="369" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyB8J40SipO90QiFGkJKBx5O3pKY6sdf2vpnnkip5JQeLuUyzeW02iIkI8BD7D_zZP9Vo-urPo5O5HRbyxifpCI3FJ7MQMJlY9YwVa474qCnkcpwWxPEUjs60OjoiEijVUmOr4OxUehzc/s640/2020-03-11_09-09-33.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Failover config screen. Wifi first, then SIM then Sat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3>
Installation</h3>
The hard part of the install was actually done years ago when we installed the original Bullet/Microtik system. All the power and ethernet wiring that was done then will work now. Both the old and new radio get power over ethernet (POE). The Wave <a href="https://www.wavewifi.com/product/rogue-pro-db/" target="_blank">Pro DB </a>came with a shiny new POE injector (this one with LEDs on it), so I swapped in the new one (because I like shiny things).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymT48usHyCGkCGd0DKwjPg8CHno5vjfVC5x3ilGotMOmgbrHKGQeUZfqyY863BfzvNA-dMQ5QdKZbBkXlKXM0WD_Pj4vfboc-3PDdIT7Y08a2878orC9POv1h_2Dzoxnh5UOkfdEmFlI/s1600/IMG_20200307_180359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymT48usHyCGkCGd0DKwjPg8CHno5vjfVC5x3ilGotMOmgbrHKGQeUZfqyY863BfzvNA-dMQ5QdKZbBkXlKXM0WD_Pj4vfboc-3PDdIT7Y08a2878orC9POv1h_2Dzoxnh5UOkfdEmFlI/s400/IMG_20200307_180359.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pro DB radio in hand and the MB550 and new POE mounted inside.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLahxu_6PZLlyKYLMYOjhBZGOkrHl59S1bD42KSg8PgUqiz1Uyim-kN0tLYlCSrrgeS2FHIUwE4gtIkLpKbt_heO7S5yoaWBKFGBLgCg7RJ5u5uFqWUrM6EamRL-8-SX3za53jKKOa50/s1600/IMG_20200308_074740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLahxu_6PZLlyKYLMYOjhBZGOkrHl59S1bD42KSg8PgUqiz1Uyim-kN0tLYlCSrrgeS2FHIUwE4gtIkLpKbt_heO7S5yoaWBKFGBLgCg7RJ5u5uFqWUrM6EamRL-8-SX3za53jKKOa50/s400/IMG_20200308_074740.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bit of a mess during the install.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDAe7WlUTwpEKfmY3cnB9SPNKCYsVEvyD5cQXPqnxWkHHP8UTmVTfxleoYsI62iQOWLeTRUcXBsB0iC_6q4UfyxH4m_lb_RwF8U4p7sXIBwfj047yFi1N0OyKXmra9ET4TbvG9ssr004/s1600/20200308_075822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDAe7WlUTwpEKfmY3cnB9SPNKCYsVEvyD5cQXPqnxWkHHP8UTmVTfxleoYsI62iQOWLeTRUcXBsB0iC_6q4UfyxH4m_lb_RwF8U4p7sXIBwfj047yFi1N0OyKXmra9ET4TbvG9ssr004/s400/20200308_075822.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pro DB with spacers ready to be clamped to the radar mast.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01PYNpyWjp8YwTXrQed9hn3tXkmNmJ-twRpiEEXu4qT6jF_0WwzT20ztOsBu5WW2XKpa1t_YLPlFsEFcqiTHej8QxQvcf4QJj4WdmlsgfFVnFC9JzXgZwBpLcDMBOyTFCIF_n1BDP3Zk/s1600/20200308_084824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01PYNpyWjp8YwTXrQed9hn3tXkmNmJ-twRpiEEXu4qT6jF_0WwzT20ztOsBu5WW2XKpa1t_YLPlFsEFcqiTHej8QxQvcf4QJj4WdmlsgfFVnFC9JzXgZwBpLcDMBOyTFCIF_n1BDP3Zk/s400/20200308_084824.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mounted and wired in. The Fleet One Satellite terminal now feeds a port on our primary router (white wire).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSkHRSddT6zL94MYUbuVwniGK-K4DAUG1v8ulViZP_FWGQH-Jk0iR1R5vxRxDaW80d0ewSDs4lC4RiCrKk5lMZj_u5FRS1maVHrOSBsyJQVTajLkyrDStdkyc7AgYhch98PfeIYv9TqVg/s1600/IMG_20200308_081050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSkHRSddT6zL94MYUbuVwniGK-K4DAUG1v8ulViZP_FWGQH-Jk0iR1R5vxRxDaW80d0ewSDs4lC4RiCrKk5lMZj_u5FRS1maVHrOSBsyJQVTajLkyrDStdkyc7AgYhch98PfeIYv9TqVg/s640/IMG_20200308_081050.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bit of a stretch and balancing act.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGrmOoMmJm6GnT2pR_Hx5EBnVIkjO0Nsnr157KA7zxl3XE2Bt2sahW-_Lc9a7mPBPY2B5hESVlPTTKNZd4oZsL1WU2xF5qoCWXF6mcuDyQh8iyKKnyBv0vHZ36dEKQRc1QvM7zwfQx0pA/s1600/20200308_081955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGrmOoMmJm6GnT2pR_Hx5EBnVIkjO0Nsnr157KA7zxl3XE2Bt2sahW-_Lc9a7mPBPY2B5hESVlPTTKNZd4oZsL1WU2xF5qoCWXF6mcuDyQh8iyKKnyBv0vHZ36dEKQRc1QvM7zwfQx0pA/s400/20200308_081955.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And done!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
The Review</h3>
Don't you hate those Amazon reviews where someone reviews something after owning it for only a couple days? Well, I'm about to do the same.<br />
<br />
It was incredibly easy to set up. The paper instructions included were not so great but I downloaded the manual (and of course put it in dropbox with all the other ship's manuals). One thing that is buried a bit is that you can configure it by connecting to it wirelessly instead of plugging in an ethernet cable as the instructions say. The trick is that the initial password is MBR550's serial number. That said, there is not much config to do. The router allows you to require logins for your users and can even redirect them to a disclaimer page. This is probably a very popular feature on charter boats and large yachts with lots of guests coming and going.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgav9eICA5mjYFuLBn7SDSFEPV86975qS9VL7nYqazHnQeGvVaT3lufA8lgK0MP2I6gnKp2O16MJMIDk2ymioD5a_9tfxura_hLA-Kb4srX2h-jChxXxVHcODDqMuI0UGjp6RLyKoO6EL0/s1600/20200308_131306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgav9eICA5mjYFuLBn7SDSFEPV86975qS9VL7nYqazHnQeGvVaT3lufA8lgK0MP2I6gnKp2O16MJMIDk2ymioD5a_9tfxura_hLA-Kb4srX2h-jChxXxVHcODDqMuI0UGjp6RLyKoO6EL0/s400/20200308_131306.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Product placement.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I've been using it for work for several days. The Pro DB is connected to the Club Nautico Guest Wifi here at the marina in San Juan. As is often the case with marinas, the Wifi is horrible at times and not so bad other times. This marina has a 2.4 and a 5GHz guest Access point. While the 2.4 is a slightly stronger signal, I've been having much better luck on the 5 (lately). It's nice to have the option now.<br />
<br />
The physical mounting of the MBR550 router is much nicer than the old Microtik A/P. It has tabbed legs with screw holes and the footprint is a bit smaller. I mounted it inside our nav table pod with the Sim slot facing forward.<br />
<br />
The Pro DB radio feels very rugged and <i>heavy</i>. It has a standard antenna mount threaded base, however we are not using that yet. I'm doing the hose-clamps to a stainless rail method of mounting for now. Perhaps a winter project will be to add a threaded base to the Edson wing and run the wire up inside it. A nice touch is that when the Pro DB gets power, it makes a quiet <i>bootup</i> sound - like a rapid series of clicks. It's nice feedback to let you know that your POE is working all the way to it. Like the bullet, there are no LED indicators of power or signal.<br />
<br />
Another advantage over the Bullet is that anything the Pro DB connects to can be saved as a Favorite. Come back next year and it will connect - so long as they haven't changed the password which is often the case. The bullet had no such memory so it required another trip to the bar to harvest a password.<br />
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Speaking of harvesting passwords, this brings me to one thing that was nicer in the Bullet. The Site Scan Survey results screen for the Bullet was a nice tight table of SSIDs and signal strength. One could sort by signal strength, take a screenshot of that on your phone and go ashore to harvest passwords. The UI in the Wave Scan screen is modern and pretty, but it spreads the list of Access Points it sees over several pages. It will now require several screenshots to capture it all - especially when there are many access points around (most of which are from other boats).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FXTk-XLAf4uvxpSvo4VN7rG8VugJ0jFbn-kq2aYGuMdNNR8NIh-TqjrpnUN7a8rcuqDXpPm_W7-VkCr7orVgMrTGu-hgnKTTjbA9uGvanvsfe7j_xHAZyZYyOTI97diD4iJgynyLN6c/s1600/Screenshot_20200310-083542_Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FXTk-XLAf4uvxpSvo4VN7rG8VugJ0jFbn-kq2aYGuMdNNR8NIh-TqjrpnUN7a8rcuqDXpPm_W7-VkCr7orVgMrTGu-hgnKTTjbA9uGvanvsfe7j_xHAZyZYyOTI97diD4iJgynyLN6c/s640/Screenshot_20200310-083542_Chrome.jpg" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boo - a phone screenshot only fits four Access Points in this "pretty" UI. Give me the simple text table from the Bullet please!</td></tr>
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Something that I have not figured out how to do (or if it can be done) is to change how the Pro DB appears to the access point it is connected to. In the old Bullet configuration, I had us showing up as "Bill's iPhone". This was mainly done because some restaurants/bars in certain places are very protective of their Wifi passcodes and insist on typing them into your phone instead of telling them to you. We would use our superior technology to thwart that, but then we didn't want to appear as "Bullet m2" in their router connected user list (if they ever look). I have a feeling that we show up as "Wave... something or other" now and I don't yet know how to change that.<br />
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There is a Bug (or feature) I've run into with regards to Favorites. I had both the 2.4 and 5GHz SSIDs saved as favorites. I deleted one Favorite and... it deleted both of them. Can I put this in Jira?<br />
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<h3>
Time To Get Back To Work, And Play</h3>
We're spending a few more days in San Juan and will wait on a window to make a 460 nautical mile (3+ day) passage to Grand Inagua in the southern Bahamas. Besides this little project, we have gotten several other things done on the boat including some bright work. The Bahamas will be a test for the Cellular Data capabilities of the MBR550. Between that, a second BTC local SIM card in a phone and Google FI, we hope to stay well connected most of the time.<br />
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In the meantime, we're enjoying San Juan and even dressing up a bit for nights out!<br />
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-75949388567305465472020-03-01T13:09:00.002-05:002020-03-03T17:51:04.506-05:00Back in the US, Sort Of<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Argon has been been easing her way out of the deep Caribbean in to more American-feeling territory ever since about St. Martin with its commerce and infrastructure as well as Anguilla accepting US dollars and completely English-speaking. We were welcomed back home with the ease of clearing customs in US territory upon arriving in St. Croix as well as the plethora of Americans inhabiting St. John (both US Virgin Islands). It feels as though we may have swapped exotic adventure for comfortable familiarity at these latitudes. But it's still grand.<br />
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<img height="80px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
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Argon sailed and explored about 160nm in total over the past two plus weeks from Anguilla to St. Croix (USVI) then on to and around St. John (also USVI).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2oXR3xPqR2AfAX86GJdF2h6MZzqqAKnmcIKs2yJeWqDH2I6O8G72cVLHcZKls6gjkKN8R2IvaxB8BKwotZ8eC4Dgi9polKcnvy4E8PCMfQil0of0OmAey_7umQkd87jGh5ac_pEVdGy0/s1600/2020-03-01_09-57-27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="1600" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2oXR3xPqR2AfAX86GJdF2h6MZzqqAKnmcIKs2yJeWqDH2I6O8G72cVLHcZKls6gjkKN8R2IvaxB8BKwotZ8eC4Dgi9polKcnvy4E8PCMfQil0of0OmAey_7umQkd87jGh5ac_pEVdGy0/s640/2020-03-01_09-57-27.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A difficult downwind overnight passage from Anguilla to St. Croix USVI was followed by a grand daysail due north to St. John (also USVI, just southwest of British VI).</td></tr>
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<h2>
Overnight Sail from Anguilla to St. Croix, With Crew</h2>
Anguilla is a narrow island a mere 5 miles north of St. Martin. Its topography is nondescript but with gorgeous waters. Locals seem happy to be largely overlooked by their bustling neighboring island with just enough high end tourism to keep the economy healthy. Anguilla seems to have the most mixing of races we've seen in the Caribbean perhaps due to what appears to be an overall higher standard of living for locals compared to other islands where there is a clear divide between locals and ex-pats. The locals were among the friendliest we have encountered in our travels.<br />
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After a week at anchor working day jobs, tending to boat logistics and a bit of land exploration we welcomed our dear friends, Lori and Colonel Todd, to Anguilla to celebrate their impending retirement from nearly 30 years in the Marine Corps. Lori and Todd started sailing in Newport a few years ago and were keen to get some experience in big waters, on a larger boat, and to experience the cruising lifestyle.<br />
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An overnight westward passage would be a downwind sail in 15-18kt winds. Seas proved to be the most challenging factor with confused 4-8 foot waves bashing our stern quarter requiring constant helm attention and resulting in uncomfortable motion of the boat the majority of the 100nm sixteen hour overnight passage. We had to stay off the wind more than we would have if the seas were calm requiring us to jib a few times and add some miles to the rhumb line. The sea state finally became more rhythmic and comfortable around daybreak as we welcomed the view of St. Croix.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKY9WW64PLqMI-F7LiDB_yLwEE11J9CiF3cEamr0zRCg0TsgztnLR5in8CCVn_1ABqt6feZXivap1LDlACFw3LjeChlvNxhSuvs6hRi2kAtvBR9gE9mXiFIteQ8mgjyr3jOXgkoHwZ7A/s1600/IMG_20200214_083941%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKY9WW64PLqMI-F7LiDB_yLwEE11J9CiF3cEamr0zRCg0TsgztnLR5in8CCVn_1ABqt6feZXivap1LDlACFw3LjeChlvNxhSuvs6hRi2kAtvBR9gE9mXiFIteQ8mgjyr3jOXgkoHwZ7A/s400/IMG_20200214_083941%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After a week of work and boat logistics, we welcomed dear friends to Anguilla.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xPf9z_0gn0UzxM0TYAy3h67F4zAqwkK5VM3ukxNJBqmn8SduOsC0fOWdvgngAp56Dx_R0ydr0Cc7gd4lJOxI9nWErY12PqJg_awVKkf0yO1L3nmxqZiDu5qQt-s_9SAUxnck33nPJ98/s1600/IMG_20200217_142936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xPf9z_0gn0UzxM0TYAy3h67F4zAqwkK5VM3ukxNJBqmn8SduOsC0fOWdvgngAp56Dx_R0ydr0Cc7gd4lJOxI9nWErY12PqJg_awVKkf0yO1L3nmxqZiDu5qQt-s_9SAUxnck33nPJ98/s400/IMG_20200217_142936.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing for the 100nm overnight sail from Road Bay, Anguilla to Christensted, St. Croix.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for an evening departure from the windy anchorage at Road Bay, Anguilla.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnEJ2eT5NjufgZKbNMN9_nvKjp2rrOUM03-KCj_-g8LbNR-rlQOa-VgVsxj1Y43FFm-M-Ky2c2Ls8xNHNhkg7Baptr4uU-TEokjI5oBctIjclu5WD3nRRPBrIvQu4x_8m0Xhfyy_1xlw/s1600/IMG_20200217_173201%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnEJ2eT5NjufgZKbNMN9_nvKjp2rrOUM03-KCj_-g8LbNR-rlQOa-VgVsxj1Y43FFm-M-Ky2c2Ls8xNHNhkg7Baptr4uU-TEokjI5oBctIjclu5WD3nRRPBrIvQu4x_8m0Xhfyy_1xlw/s400/IMG_20200217_173201%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lori practicing helming and getting used to the feel of Argon in the lee of Anguilla before dark sets in and seas roughen. (They were both happier than they appear in this photo.) We were mostly double-reefed with just the 90% jib which enabled us to maintain 6.5-7.5kts.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYRAk2AP-unkeYAriu3orITJLSR07jr2plXCzLC_sX1-tZznDkbFu59xgvfdsUump3JuluuKCqC_Q08jmyeeLo5GX8_sV67AWsw4Ru6fkSKVHdC2_Y4Y8VCNJfpiKrkiLYcYzF7eXDq4/s1600/00100sPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20200218074721149_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYRAk2AP-unkeYAriu3orITJLSR07jr2plXCzLC_sX1-tZznDkbFu59xgvfdsUump3JuluuKCqC_Q08jmyeeLo5GX8_sV67AWsw4Ru6fkSKVHdC2_Y4Y8VCNJfpiKrkiLYcYzF7eXDq4/s400/00100sPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20200218074721149_COVER.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The morning after... A challenging, successful night sail was celebrated with strong coffee as seas calm on the approach to St. Croix.</td></tr>
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<h2>
Christiansted, St. Croix - USVI</h2>
Americans clearing in to customs upon returning to the US have the option of using the new <a href="https://www.cbp.gov/travel/pleasure-boats-private-flyers/pleasure-boat-overview/roam">Roam App</a>. A bit of time was spent a week prior setting up the account and profiles for about a $30 fee. When in St. Croix, I simply logged our arrival when anchored and waited about 30 minutes to receive an acknowledgement from Customs and Boarder Patrol (CBP) and permission to be back in the US. So convenient! I will try using this again when we leave US territory and return again.<br />
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We quickly loved the town of Christiansted with a myriad of beautiful buildings and interesting side streets and art galleries. However, it is not an ideal cruiser's destinantion. The anchoring options are limited and we had an extremely rolly night (but with good holding) after being asked to leave our first anchoring spot. After making our way to an antiquated fuel dock in high winds the next morning to top off diesel and water, we were introduced to the pervasive friendliness of Christiansted. Miracle was a joy to chat with and one of the boat yard workers kindly offered us his mooring in a much more protected and comfortable part of the harbor. Thus after a rough initial introduction, Argon and crew were able to settle in and enjoy the pearls of Christiansted.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDCBaZP_zLmrvd04-Qb2b0cO3ufsS0wol6v-d9cOq2XiTm-WA9m8U_D5WZ6_ssZVv5ac9ioiTBvOebSi4egdsn5e3Bnk5JjdS8FcUy7PxV-9Sr8DjF5IrS8ZH4wMF-yOrstdty74qDRg/s1600/IMG_20200219_175829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDCBaZP_zLmrvd04-Qb2b0cO3ufsS0wol6v-d9cOq2XiTm-WA9m8U_D5WZ6_ssZVv5ac9ioiTBvOebSi4egdsn5e3Bnk5JjdS8FcUy7PxV-9Sr8DjF5IrS8ZH4wMF-yOrstdty74qDRg/s400/IMG_20200219_175829.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very uncomfortable and rolly anchorage a long dinghy ride from town.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiq8sOeaVtpHTQvdNS8rdwFbuWbVqXq4SqDli9wKMsIdN03j5V9nP0CDZHB0RSCSzMpoC9mqXQH5O0DVWaN23lURSFxwIuvJpTr27Hx253KkloCFU8uneJWon-Eg92ZOS13K3h6Fi0zQ/s1600/IMG_20200220_103916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiq8sOeaVtpHTQvdNS8rdwFbuWbVqXq4SqDli9wKMsIdN03j5V9nP0CDZHB0RSCSzMpoC9mqXQH5O0DVWaN23lURSFxwIuvJpTr27Hx253KkloCFU8uneJWon-Eg92ZOS13K3h6Fi0zQ/s400/IMG_20200220_103916.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mircacle, from St. Croix Marina, was a gem. She got us connected with a co-worker who offered up his mooring to us.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdEdYnvUNOa0uZ1ReHBQkT1izGTiMSTKjqBtCIgnEK3BCdc3MMclIc2IpwcF8l3memWOdTa3b8ahXWCGkw9fvj8eQ2vMJN8sLUibj21Klr60ZMeOjIut9h31n8PEEYedOB20FLpeUzPg/s1600/IMG_20200220_171757%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdEdYnvUNOa0uZ1ReHBQkT1izGTiMSTKjqBtCIgnEK3BCdc3MMclIc2IpwcF8l3memWOdTa3b8ahXWCGkw9fvj8eQ2vMJN8sLUibj21Klr60ZMeOjIut9h31n8PEEYedOB20FLpeUzPg/s400/IMG_20200220_171757%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On day 2 we were able to get a great mooring behind a tiny island in crystal clear water and a very easy dinghy ride to town. There are ample tie ups for dinghies along the boardwalk but a stern anchor is advisable to prevent the tender from constantly bashing in to or under the docks. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob installed this cleat to the transom of the dinghy which facilitated securing the stern anchor rode.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKjATjA0cJjWQMp52fiaiVhEv0_lFtE98wr2uzmoluStrwtgyNjOlFk1UQnsS2cqGs7sNgD3hu15xjmGhEngZzEyPdm7486vL827uwUHOgT1vd87IQiyCCvJjC9qy4zflxOAL35f4wi0/s1600/IMG_20200219_204555_1%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKjATjA0cJjWQMp52fiaiVhEv0_lFtE98wr2uzmoluStrwtgyNjOlFk1UQnsS2cqGs7sNgD3hu15xjmGhEngZzEyPdm7486vL827uwUHOgT1vd87IQiyCCvJjC9qy4zflxOAL35f4wi0/s400/IMG_20200219_204555_1%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little bit of partying and celebrating in St. Croix at BES Craft Cocktail Lounge.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downtown Christiansted, St. Croix.</td></tr>
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<h2>
St. John - USVI</h2>
After three nights in St. Croix we released the mooring lines at 0900 for a 35nm close reach sail in 14kts, reasonable seas, with full main and jib landing in a lovely southern bay of St. John by early afternoon. It was great to arrive to a new island and not have to bother with customs (since we were already cleared in to US via St. Croix).<br />
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St. John is on my list of top 5 favorite Caribbean places
to sail. The numerous gorgeous bays and concise circumference of the
island enable one to find a lovely cove to tuck in regardless of the
conditions. With a majority of its 20 square miles national park there
are numerous hiking options. We enjoyed the following harbors on this
trip: <br />
<ul>
<li>Little Lameshur</li>
<li>Rendezvous Bay</li>
<li>Waterlemon Bay</li>
<li>Francis and Maho Bays</li>
<li>Lindt Point, Caneel Bay and Cruz Bay</li>
</ul>
The National Park Service (NPS) maintains moorings requesting $26/night in park waters comprising much of the south and north coasts. While this can add up and impact ones cruising budget, it is well worth it as the moorings are excellent quality and the prohibition of anchoring contribute significantly to the quality of the harbors by protecting the sea beds. Recently slashed NPS funding in addition to recovery from the devastating hurricane Irma in fall of 2017 is negatively impacting NPS activties including enforcement of fee collection (which will eventually lead to less funds for mooring and trail maintenance). Let's hope that funding and associated activities are restored soon.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0HevYMR5cZ15AAxBaXmdecxx9Qf6Kk3v7Kw17iEbNwPLx8gGZWqlVXAjrTjP-g24A6RKxetnUZTi7yo5Sorm4cOn7H8yeV5rxkOyi1hlNBRbuxFgI1vbSc3yWFUgVHFq_2uNHuhv5Pc/s1600/2020-03-01_09-54-27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0HevYMR5cZ15AAxBaXmdecxx9Qf6Kk3v7Kw17iEbNwPLx8gGZWqlVXAjrTjP-g24A6RKxetnUZTi7yo5Sorm4cOn7H8yeV5rxkOyi1hlNBRbuxFgI1vbSc3yWFUgVHFq_2uNHuhv5Pc/s640/2020-03-01_09-54-27.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More than a week was spent jumping from one harbor to the next around St. John. Favorites are the coves on the less traveled south coast especially Little Lameshur and Rendezvous Bays.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lori and Todd sailing with us on a close reach from St. Croix to St. John - much more favorable conditions compared to the overnight passage a few days prior.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon spent several days in Little Lameshur, sometimes alone. This view is from Yawzi Point, one of the several hiking trails surrounding this cove.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1JcDmX0lF80eggzcFZsnc3N0hSkdRe2Cfe7LsJ_kwW22Mo8gdYHK6LjwPsV6ed12ATe0cT4kQ74n9dxDP6uvsb0ZLhZ70u0mMi5WzNqdkZUoAtrHPDy09bYVdzJkxh_ZLKe-rnPXamkY/s1600/20200226_101953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1JcDmX0lF80eggzcFZsnc3N0hSkdRe2Cfe7LsJ_kwW22Mo8gdYHK6LjwPsV6ed12ATe0cT4kQ74n9dxDP6uvsb0ZLhZ70u0mMi5WzNqdkZUoAtrHPDy09bYVdzJkxh_ZLKe-rnPXamkY/s400/20200226_101953.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. John was ideal for regular exercise swims. One morning in Little Lameshur a large barracuda was hanging out around the boat (they seem to enjoy the shadow of the hull). It took me a while to muster up the nerve to gently slide in the water and start my swim. Barracuda are common and not overtly aggressive but they have enormous sharp teeth and one does not want to inadvertently startle a barrack in to attack mode.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24MCNHig8qJXEI0cr_2BqtX1RkgXfeP19Yi3uv9sonLy3QCteiV4YGjRoupLJ4A2y9aUrlAt_cmkqPsNWstGtEblyXmKdEZOD8-Lvjak7O9CbUFyhgxh2xbAvF5bGHtLaVscZ1sjc5Fk/s1600/FB_IMG_1582661589218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24MCNHig8qJXEI0cr_2BqtX1RkgXfeP19Yi3uv9sonLy3QCteiV4YGjRoupLJ4A2y9aUrlAt_cmkqPsNWstGtEblyXmKdEZOD8-Lvjak7O9CbUFyhgxh2xbAvF5bGHtLaVscZ1sjc5Fk/s400/FB_IMG_1582661589218.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun impromptu meet up at Francis Bay with a former sailing instructor (Brenton of <a href="http://blackrocksailingschool.com/">Blackrock Sailing School</a>) and his current class on their Foutaine Pajot 40 catamaran. A big surprise was that one of the students is a work colleague of Bob's - small world. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Johnny Horn Trail. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dMkdtjkEokvDQlR_J9FoNwTXcYqLZnygUTtsNQHozEhP4oAJ7BEfgWjZpVefAfJVmnsOu4a5sn5FsCeKHbALBP_PI8GFhiQh_EWOYXENSOiJ6m1mWSEUutKIMnVHuDSnaBmy2UxhYJM/s1600/P1100425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dMkdtjkEokvDQlR_J9FoNwTXcYqLZnygUTtsNQHozEhP4oAJ7BEfgWjZpVefAfJVmnsOu4a5sn5FsCeKHbALBP_PI8GFhiQh_EWOYXENSOiJ6m1mWSEUutKIMnVHuDSnaBmy2UxhYJM/s400/P1100425.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon moored in Waterlemon Bay.</td></tr>
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<h2>
Eating Aboard</h2>
With all the secluded harbors, we were happily eating aboard quite a bit. Although the last provisioning run was only about a week ago in St. Croix, our stores were getting lean. We were still able to muster up some satisfying meals as the cabinet and refrigerator became sparse. Finding fresh vegetables and good quality meats is a challenge along many of the Caribbean islands. Cooking with various types of legumes has become commonplace. Canned mushrooms are a regular in my cooking as good quality fresh mushrooms are non-existent. Cabbage is wonderful for its shelf life and versatility including using in place of lettuce which is difficult to find fresh and does not keep for long. Weak fishing skills prohibit us from relying on fresh fish but we keep going at it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crispy tofu with spice Thai noodles.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifsYp30xe_h7p9xSMcXBI8gksPnpwQ0SM382n4Irki-TFDlTVM-Asjzi6we9Ymprxw40NU7-3R5iwo40n2N3bbjgOKn-fO_jh47CxUh52Fyl9e8AvyAcVjeRq8n9Zxtb7jK9VQxmCLI4Y/s1600/IMG_20200206_182838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifsYp30xe_h7p9xSMcXBI8gksPnpwQ0SM382n4Irki-TFDlTVM-Asjzi6we9Ymprxw40NU7-3R5iwo40n2N3bbjgOKn-fO_jh47CxUh52Fyl9e8AvyAcVjeRq8n9Zxtb7jK9VQxmCLI4Y/s400/IMG_20200206_182838.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Braised beef with polenta.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwtabh66YHauLOKbzgfZMk_TujnppzCn9a4h593Ba2_3sZEWUfNIEs7r40A0mP2tOkbIjXWqzIl8PGRfd8UZyjs2mqBrmU2o057MfB8FVLlS-qxuAcyrCWcWlAW-2Kq0SH30-A5BEZ_OA/s1600/IMG_20200227_182026%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwtabh66YHauLOKbzgfZMk_TujnppzCn9a4h593Ba2_3sZEWUfNIEs7r40A0mP2tOkbIjXWqzIl8PGRfd8UZyjs2mqBrmU2o057MfB8FVLlS-qxuAcyrCWcWlAW-2Kq0SH30-A5BEZ_OA/s400/IMG_20200227_182026%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beef and bean burritos made with Impossible Beef (plant based meat product).</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CRteZc8JY8nVv4H5mlFHjE3Q3FBf1y12ayHcscBOJ82dhs4gFXa0NNea5mM_7GBSKiqeRf_WeSd02CT-olFVLghrhXkbhVC0l-fEyekw5hhshMfIDO13NyWzk9S8QP42MeJ5JtE5aSo/s1600/IMG_20200228_102924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CRteZc8JY8nVv4H5mlFHjE3Q3FBf1y12ayHcscBOJ82dhs4gFXa0NNea5mM_7GBSKiqeRf_WeSd02CT-olFVLghrhXkbhVC0l-fEyekw5hhshMfIDO13NyWzk9S8QP42MeJ5JtE5aSo/s400/IMG_20200228_102924.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scrambled eggs and sauteed potatoes with paprika and brie cheese.</td></tr>
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<h2>
What About St. Thomas? And the BVI?</h2>
We have enjoyed the lovely profiles of the lively and bustling British Virgin Islands and St. Thomas in the near distance of St. John but have decided to by-pass these popluar island in exchange for more time in the quiet coves of St. John. We will soon set sail westward for the Spanish Virgin Islands (also US territory) first stopping at the secluded island of Vieques.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1al-SeBFruC4ARasaaJjz6oYc2RBWXhJB06hmQEfKG5fgwHmwfFgLbKqr5l5V2wg7KpkRVwmxNIozs9clVvY-TJwq1qtan9c2JBwEukDQZ71u1RDaiucJ6_xl9FnMFrZaFcQb4kpFlGs/s1600/IMG_20200228_142327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1al-SeBFruC4ARasaaJjz6oYc2RBWXhJB06hmQEfKG5fgwHmwfFgLbKqr5l5V2wg7KpkRVwmxNIozs9clVvY-TJwq1qtan9c2JBwEukDQZ71u1RDaiucJ6_xl9FnMFrZaFcQb4kpFlGs/s400/IMG_20200228_142327.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from one of the many spectacular hikes on St. John. This one from atop Lienster Point with Tortola and Little Thatch (part of the BVI) in the background.</td></tr>
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-73900839263839709432020-02-21T17:46:00.001-05:002020-02-22T06:11:24.037-05:00More Rigging Tweaks - The TopingliftectomyThe boom on a sailboat, while attached rigidly (hopefully) to the mast at one end, is balanced with various up and down forces at the other. There are plenty of <i>down </i>forces: The vang, the mainsheet and the weight of the whole thing. One of the <i>up </i>forces that most boats have is a topping lift. Some boats also have a rigid vang which <i>pushes </i>the boom up. While sailing, the sail itself is holding the boom up, and during this time, the topping lift is superfluous - or worse.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
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<img height="80px" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--7ESi4mJKMc/VonLI8VAFjI/AAAAAAAATxA/Ja-wE6H4s0c/s144-Ic42/P1010491.JPG" /></div>
Capt. Bob
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Argon was rigged from the factory with a covered stainless wire topping lift. She was also rigged with a Forespar rigid vang which can push the boom up. When Argon was first commissioned, the boom always hung on the topping lift while the sail was down. The Forespar vang didn't have quite enough push to balance it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgULaAoQh6s9_vt3c-JdWGClDBIp1QgFWp6moLvsOrfBm1ud_nphN0mS8GJclff5U-AQh0YgscO5n2EH2JPvXuWkW8aPCC4g4UW9S1Nh9tDprrqZW8dGqW8lYizBKRYngK4oRh-kxIXg/s1600/20200214_153117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgULaAoQh6s9_vt3c-JdWGClDBIp1QgFWp6moLvsOrfBm1ud_nphN0mS8GJclff5U-AQh0YgscO5n2EH2JPvXuWkW8aPCC4g4UW9S1Nh9tDprrqZW8dGqW8lYizBKRYngK4oRh-kxIXg/s400/20200214_153117.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Forespar Rigid Vang - properly adjusted</td></tr>
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<br />
One day, I was going through the boat manuals and came upon the Forespar manual. In there, they clearly say that you should adjust it so it <i>does</i> fully support the boom. Ours had two positions of adjustment left so I moved the pin up to the next set of holes and ever since then, our boom balances perfectly without any tension on the topping lift.<br />
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<h3>
So why have a topping lift at all?</h3>
With our rigid vang, the lift still comes in handy when the sail is down and we're motoring (or sailing with headsails only) in rolling conditions. In these circumstances, you really need to stabilize the boom and the only way to do that is to apply a bunch of opposing forces to it - typically by pulling down hard on the sheets against the topping lift pulling up. This was about the only situation where there would ever be any tension on our topping lift.<br />
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<h3>
The New Sail</h3>
One of the things we did in Grenada over the summer was have a new Doyle Mainsail made. It was a moderately frustrating experience with needing to have it re-cut <i>three </i>times (each time requiring the sail be removed, taken to the loft and re-installed and tested). The new sail performed much better and was slightly different from the original in a few ways:<br />
<ol>
<li>It has slightly more roach (at first, it had <i>way </i>too much roach to tack without hitting the backstay - hence one of the trips back to the loft).</li>
<li>It has two sets of Antal Low-friction rings for the slab reefing line to run through. </li>
<li>It has really heavy duty batten pockets for the round full battens. </li>
</ol>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbq5KVgKUJH6Mccq9JKdJvbX60EQgbaxQcduDaIikCLOqL12dFVOhqRjLsFmysbbB7BhRC0_tRbChy4g1t-lt0NBMCaD8jy1KTQpUaqtAnYvkOq2rCzdZyBp5RG5j4dBcId9Yeos9Japo/s1600/P1080448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbq5KVgKUJH6Mccq9JKdJvbX60EQgbaxQcduDaIikCLOqL12dFVOhqRjLsFmysbbB7BhRC0_tRbChy4g1t-lt0NBMCaD8jy1KTQpUaqtAnYvkOq2rCzdZyBp5RG5j4dBcId9Yeos9Japo/s400/P1080448.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not related to the topping lift, but here was one of the reasons we had the new sail re-cut three times. The top three battens were sticking out past the backstay!</td></tr>
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These are all great improvements from a performance and sail handling standpoint; but a new problem emerged.<br />
<h3>
The Topping Lift Cries Foul!</h3>
During one of the first sails with the new sail, the topping lift got fouled and wedged in one of the leech line cleats. It was brute force alternately raising and pulling down on the reefing line to finally break it free - but not without shredding the vinyl coating over the stainless wire.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAYJfrrcRGBPc7tXirZMJzfd8Zq0XspCt9lDiVM098FYWTnnAKFD3h1gd3ymPGASknZYFMvzxNZei7H3BC-yo4kzHw_l5Yo6M5drk0S6z-K-4l9hTvz5oJhd4Z_3uaIEEuDVGN24qV4xg/s1600/20200214_154353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAYJfrrcRGBPc7tXirZMJzfd8Zq0XspCt9lDiVM098FYWTnnAKFD3h1gd3ymPGASknZYFMvzxNZei7H3BC-yo4kzHw_l5Yo6M5drk0S6z-K-4l9hTvz5oJhd4Z_3uaIEEuDVGN24qV4xg/s400/20200214_154353.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The shredded coating on the topping lift wire caused by getting caught in the leech line cleat.</td></tr>
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My clever fix for that was to put some whipping line around the cleat to prevent anything from entering it. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii2HVdwVdjR6fHoKiMbCZBPZQnYI7dKvB1_WIooXLPKN-3IbpSk4JoKSaYHE-vg1PcmEqiWDMfq8A9q6Y2qKLJW__BbyjT7ojJaISzj_XIzEqvJwf3a3WnYvFX4GMtJurUOzbDZ3uG4o4/s1600/20200214_155055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii2HVdwVdjR6fHoKiMbCZBPZQnYI7dKvB1_WIooXLPKN-3IbpSk4JoKSaYHE-vg1PcmEqiWDMfq8A9q6Y2qKLJW__BbyjT7ojJaISzj_XIzEqvJwf3a3WnYvFX4GMtJurUOzbDZ3uG4o4/s400/20200214_155055.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whipping line around the leech line cleat to try and keep the topping lift out. You can see it still tries to get in there.</td></tr>
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<br />
That worked for that particular foul point and we were fairly trouble free... for a while. During a few subsequent sails, we noticed the topping lift was getting hung up on the batten pockets on the sail. While this never prevented the sail coming down, it made us nervous to see it caught on anything up there.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Approaching Barbuda</h3>
"Not a lot of time before the reefs."<br />
"Okay, I know".<br />
"Let's get the sail down"<br />
"Working on it"<br />
"Really not much time!"<br />
"I know!"<br />
"We really need the sail down now!" <br />
"I'm really trying!"<br />
<br />
On our <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2020/02/barbuda.html">passage to Barbuda</a>, we made a final approach into the wind outside of the more hazardous shallows. I went forward to lower the sail and flake it and noticed that the Topping Lift was very seriously fouled - this time on one of the Antal reefing line rings. Not only that, but it had gotten caught on the block for our split backstay! So, not only would the sail not come down, but we couldn't really turn off the wind without putting a lateral load on the back stay... and those shallows were not far ahead!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP48WIDghhfEST0OQ6O2AniH3iXZ83ICBM9rdacLyEzyDjai3aL7eINL208YwmLYdIgJhUjN1LKlEx7YMDRDUTvC0e56WPCR6aqOm-SGD9vBT34W3as9bQAqnQN71NbbFZlTtEWXw7fBs/s1600/P1090851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP48WIDghhfEST0OQ6O2AniH3iXZ83ICBM9rdacLyEzyDjai3aL7eINL208YwmLYdIgJhUjN1LKlEx7YMDRDUTvC0e56WPCR6aqOm-SGD9vBT34W3as9bQAqnQN71NbbFZlTtEWXw7fBs/s400/P1090851.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The topping lift caught in front of one of the Antal reefing line rings</td></tr>
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Once again, it was extreme brute force and some back and forth tacks that got things to finally shake loose. We dropped the sail in a heap and navigated in through the coral heads. Phew!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCi-xerK6aCfUiFKcVmjrhekdbf6gDVhmYjkqHi0NvyYUP3jNZgwCH_MUrIxeh5ccyagzgxIwaeHnDzvK4AoQMoB50ZwDVAvCxn1CzP4eXY314Ju1Xvfvvhr07TOYR8lE6dJxm5ja1GCw/s1600/IMG_20200122_111043%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCi-xerK6aCfUiFKcVmjrhekdbf6gDVhmYjkqHi0NvyYUP3jNZgwCH_MUrIxeh5ccyagzgxIwaeHnDzvK4AoQMoB50ZwDVAvCxn1CzP4eXY314Ju1Xvfvvhr07TOYR8lE6dJxm5ja1GCw/s400/IMG_20200122_111043%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Having just struggled with lowering the sail (again), I assume my duties as eyeball navigator lookout.</td></tr>
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<h3>
This Thing Has To Go</h3>
I made the executive decision right then to get rid of the topping lift. For the few downsides I could think of with not having one, I now had a bigger downside with having it: Sooner or later, we would have a serious problem and not be able to get this huge sail down - and it would probably be offshore, at 2AM in driving rain and 40kts of wind.<br />
<br />
The worst thing that will happen if the boom comes too low is we will damage the canvas on the top of the bimini. This is a brand new expensive bimini so that actually is a pretty bad thing that I would like to avoid. Having a properly adjusted topping lift prevents that from happening for sure. <br />
<br />
<h3>
One More Idea</h3>
Before we did it, I wanted to try one more thing. I put a loop of shock cord from the end of the boom up to the shackle at the end of the wire topping lift and put a lot of tension on it. The idea being that when the sail is up and lifts the boom, that shock cord will still have some tension on it and at least keep the topping lift a little bit tight so it's not as apt to fling around and get caught on stuff.<br />
It didn't work. I tried a few different adjustments and never got it to apply very much tension to the topping lift at all. Certainly not enough to guarantee we wouldn't have a problem.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZpYGRZJRBNgyPYjZvo29cr_rJjSCr-VNHLqHsjGCTY8k8q0uVf-byFWVR5xzw5-NRO5AX5PUoxSJFgjrjm-Jg6JncfaVr5FUBJ79laJF6zvXlXMKXM9AKSBrO1glGlo3J9qgFd26Tk8/s1600/P1100004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZpYGRZJRBNgyPYjZvo29cr_rJjSCr-VNHLqHsjGCTY8k8q0uVf-byFWVR5xzw5-NRO5AX5PUoxSJFgjrjm-Jg6JncfaVr5FUBJ79laJF6zvXlXMKXM9AKSBrO1glGlo3J9qgFd26Tk8/s400/P1100004.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last chance for the Topping Lift. Will this shock cord keep it taught enough to stay out of trouble while sailing?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjs81Kl5zXuzvwr1OSGEi9J6t84qp6BXzP8-WosKI0hs8pd98a2hoTPW1FCPlx0NBXRDZwOtn1z_Ng8Jm8xBvz_nb9rJjWVYHzV6JTNXUIZe-4Si4DItkvaBEe3tQtSSyC_EaboQVssus/s1600/P1090852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjs81Kl5zXuzvwr1OSGEi9J6t84qp6BXzP8-WosKI0hs8pd98a2hoTPW1FCPlx0NBXRDZwOtn1z_Ng8Jm8xBvz_nb9rJjWVYHzV6JTNXUIZe-4Si4DItkvaBEe3tQtSSyC_EaboQVssus/s400/P1090852.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apparently not (and it looks ugly too). You can see it's caught on the antal ring again even though the shock cord is applying some tension to it</td></tr>
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<h3>
Not So Lazy Jacks</h3>
So, it's decided for sure - the thing really has to go. One thing we wanted to double check on was the condition of the main Lazy Jack line. We replaced it with dyneema in Bermuda on the way down but this all made us realize that the lazy jacks might end up with some more tension on them than they used to have (in hindsight, they actually don't) so we wanted to make sure they were in good shape. Just for fun, we replaced the main line with a new piece of dyneema (44 ft long to be exact).<br />
<br />
<h3>
Proof Of Concept</h3>
During those times motoring or sailing without a main in rough conditions, how are we going to stabilize the boom? Since we can't pull <i>up </i>anymore, we need to think <i>lateral</i>. We already have a Wichard Boom Brake installed. Part of the solution could be just snugging that up. When we're at anchor, we typically tie the boom over (to port in the Caribbean) with a dock line to maximize the sun on our solar panels. We decided to make a dedicated line with a snap shackle to be the special line for this purpose. I made it out of 8mm three strand nylon so it's got a nice amount of elasticity. We figured we would alter our sail dropping protocol slightly by having whoever goes forward to flake, clip this thing to the boom and run it around our midships cleat on the way. Then as the sail comes down, the traveler is pulled to the opposite side. Between this new line going one way, and the mainsheet going the other, we have some nice lateral stability.<br />
<br />
<h3>
It worked!</h3>
We tried this out by completely loosening the topping lift one day (a particularly rolly day actually) and it worked perfectly. The Boom was quiet and still and in no danger of coming down low enough to touch the bimini.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Getting It Done</h3>
We had reserved a week in Simpson Bay Marina in St Maarten coming up, so this was the perfect time to get this and <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2020/02/boat-projects-anguilla.html">many other pent up boat projects</a> done.<br />
<br />
The first job was to replace the lazy jack line. Unfortunately, I never wrote down the measurement when we replaced it in Bermuda (<a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/11/offshore-newport-bermuda.html">I had a few other things on my mind at the time</a>) so we had to first pull the existing one through and leave a messenger line in the mast so that we could measure it. Note to future Bob: it's 44 feet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3F_MfXBINdCCzDywFkMdF3xq3APK6Wxh9YmovIvE3Dggf4ZF1wk50pOuYXKIHPwqKFMlHgD2DojMpjNrjPCF8KgDc_pegl64GdMtAngtv7zg-r_9fQI9OzG4C2q930MfaYvrt9t23ZeE/s1600/IMG-20200214-WA0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3F_MfXBINdCCzDywFkMdF3xq3APK6Wxh9YmovIvE3Dggf4ZF1wk50pOuYXKIHPwqKFMlHgD2DojMpjNrjPCF8KgDc_pegl64GdMtAngtv7zg-r_9fQI9OzG4C2q930MfaYvrt9t23ZeE/s400/IMG-20200214-WA0001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda ready to go aloft to replace the lazy jack line (new one is coiled in the chair)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSoyqF8cR1j-MhvNHvBbysbd7OshEQ7JZWrql66JSZUtxdP_dZAcF18_53rTqL44oFD0meUnVJLp9h4sXaNY_N8T7Jti2jF-xAeq6K8VyQ_JOu8Yzf6QwHE8O9Npzhgp88uK-vz2XAl0/s1600/IMG_20200129_174648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSoyqF8cR1j-MhvNHvBbysbd7OshEQ7JZWrql66JSZUtxdP_dZAcF18_53rTqL44oFD0meUnVJLp9h4sXaNY_N8T7Jti2jF-xAeq6K8VyQ_JOu8Yzf6QwHE8O9Npzhgp88uK-vz2XAl0/s400/IMG_20200129_174648.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mast sheaves for the lazy jack line. There was no chafing to be seen but we replaced it anyway</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0mX6nOKjQrBnT6JQOobvB9Mz3yjKmUJ0RcvBW2AQazc6KwBbBYqov4qMQZHjewntiuJIiIoJLnOHOdsKpirr_cXGg8flU3oJfwu8155M4SAK5q7tz_Rk75ESGU83eTvyRGXfj8A80KG8/s1600/P1100014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0mX6nOKjQrBnT6JQOobvB9Mz3yjKmUJ0RcvBW2AQazc6KwBbBYqov4qMQZHjewntiuJIiIoJLnOHOdsKpirr_cXGg8flU3oJfwu8155M4SAK5q7tz_Rk75ESGU83eTvyRGXfj8A80KG8/s400/P1100014.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I get the easy job of doing a quick Brummel Splice in the new lazy jack line</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjN4Ecjw-u2wy-fpDV_TtRAcIZv8WH8HortYTMtqBTQJ_O5E2XXq_JBk9r2CHqBlkDby3XuzI_xi1NV_sKQxByg8hdmLOSf6U0frleWJzCC6ROFZNOu4-TqvTbAaP0YZRmJKTu0RPXlt4/s1600/P1100013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjN4Ecjw-u2wy-fpDV_TtRAcIZv8WH8HortYTMtqBTQJ_O5E2XXq_JBk9r2CHqBlkDby3XuzI_xi1NV_sKQxByg8hdmLOSf6U0frleWJzCC6ROFZNOu4-TqvTbAaP0YZRmJKTu0RPXlt4/s400/P1100013.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running the new lazyjack line</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9N3OCQbaHBp6w_KKUqKynolx3axkOxuAc6-drBy2vR6HswJmZzT9D78X2sUUt1bPuwgLxXHrtLTOO2A2v1HSjVVxc_hyjSbToBU6wqBnPj-BGhT3kCaMEhWesA_Fawh24obqVhT4Ajms/s1600/IMG_20200129_174308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9N3OCQbaHBp6w_KKUqKynolx3axkOxuAc6-drBy2vR6HswJmZzT9D78X2sUUt1bPuwgLxXHrtLTOO2A2v1HSjVVxc_hyjSbToBU6wqBnPj-BGhT3kCaMEhWesA_Fawh24obqVhT4Ajms/s400/IMG_20200129_174308.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda's view from aloft just above the first spreader.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Next, Linda had to go all the way to the top to actually remove the topping lift from the mast crane.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjOz4Y90wrPRSqm1R8gAYvsgEeJG0GvTQxABZlgDoJWEF9bUTXmzn8KgDDhopJKaRQCQmTzQW-aVJGj6l6LUj_Rl60L2ysSv2AjTiu9uW0mz2CjIBQhLpwy1kPJIFuvPt5gc2M42Zxko/s1600/P1100011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjOz4Y90wrPRSqm1R8gAYvsgEeJG0GvTQxABZlgDoJWEF9bUTXmzn8KgDDhopJKaRQCQmTzQW-aVJGj6l6LUj_Rl60L2ysSv2AjTiu9uW0mz2CjIBQhLpwy1kPJIFuvPt5gc2M42Zxko/s400/P1100011.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closeup of the topping lift 65 feet up at the crane.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpeelWcjgkvKHApW8KL0nTfc5xaU77IGP9V5StBzPtF8gdmq5CNj2jPC2USIjx291EMNC41qKmDK7M8uLR3iNMLrsQWTqYlIlHzrBSrHb-TDAWzpDRuYqzEvbxXOz2NtFhyphenhyphenZk4PBMp_PA/s1600/IMG_20200130_173259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpeelWcjgkvKHApW8KL0nTfc5xaU77IGP9V5StBzPtF8gdmq5CNj2jPC2USIjx291EMNC41qKmDK7M8uLR3iNMLrsQWTqYlIlHzrBSrHb-TDAWzpDRuYqzEvbxXOz2NtFhyphenhyphenZk4PBMp_PA/s400/IMG_20200130_173259.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Successful extraction.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Free At Last</h3>
The topping lift is gone. We kept it just in case, although if I ever did replace it, it would be with dyneema. The old one will make a nice memento along with our old broken headstay.<br />
<br />
Will there be times we wish we had it? Maybe. But for all the rest of the time, it is one huge thing to not have to worry about anymore.<br />
<br />
The rig looks cleaner and more streamlined and as you can see below, there is plenty of safe distance between the bottom of the boom and the top of the bimini when the sail is down. I left a soft shackle on the end of the boom that we can always clip our main halyard to. Between that and the former spin halyard, we can take the boom off the mast to work on it.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwQCJE6fnrkvcwb8QBesVQIVz-Q-g7mGkCJs7B6aYwbqZjrdxgXhSmbxCazhWZPilgRgWDw_53kna9t0_oO6ejUXiGJoOWVOqGdipzg_hziJqt2XZusp8Ee84zXuLxl7B-EduRrMh9Vg/s1600/20200209_102248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwQCJE6fnrkvcwb8QBesVQIVz-Q-g7mGkCJs7B6aYwbqZjrdxgXhSmbxCazhWZPilgRgWDw_53kna9t0_oO6ejUXiGJoOWVOqGdipzg_hziJqt2XZusp8Ee84zXuLxl7B-EduRrMh9Vg/s400/20200209_102248.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After dropping the sail, the boom is quiet with plenty of clearance above the bimini</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At rest in an anchorage (even a rolly one which we are very good at finding), the boom is quiet. Between the Wichard Brake, the new line and the mainsheet, there is a nice triangle which applies plenty of lateral support without pulling down enough to compress the vang spring.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPZc32MFs6Qi018ssvzdNHx_v9icyHI6c_AZoWmfF3CE5W2d1beycPZi3lgxlpiG_I6F-gApfTr1OVQgIFGNLk86Mkwm7vqsY5e84egpPndYGE8U4crfoBIMS8MqVI8yzj-ShoKafww4/s1600/20200206_152324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPZc32MFs6Qi018ssvzdNHx_v9icyHI6c_AZoWmfF3CE5W2d1beycPZi3lgxlpiG_I6F-gApfTr1OVQgIFGNLk86Mkwm7vqsY5e84egpPndYGE8U4crfoBIMS8MqVI8yzj-ShoKafww4/s400/20200206_152324.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The new line on padeye behind the vang. The Wichard Brake and the mainsheet make a nice triangle which stabilizes the boom in the rolliest anchorage. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Under sail, things look so much cleaner up there! No more chance of fouling in the leech line cleat, batten pockets or reefing rings.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjpt7zxxeCNVwz-oeXMN2jtf5yy2yaAMS6khrSFCtjxnIZnKR78Kqwh4BD__tnrSMAkR0F8pNqQuXpdhcY8PZuCcr_UsfrdSlsxWCIAlwFfENSVbgMhpb4IrqKsECm5kvdzON7WX2Gm3Y/s1600/20200209_094645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjpt7zxxeCNVwz-oeXMN2jtf5yy2yaAMS6khrSFCtjxnIZnKR78Kqwh4BD__tnrSMAkR0F8pNqQuXpdhcY8PZuCcr_UsfrdSlsxWCIAlwFfENSVbgMhpb4IrqKsECm5kvdzON7WX2Gm3Y/s400/20200209_094645.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No more flailing topping lift banging into the sail and getting caught on stuff.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This is all new. When I told folks we were going to do this, a few tried to talk me out of it. Others said they had done something similar and had no regrets. To me any downside of not having this lift is outweighed by removing the dangerous situation of not being able to drop this sail. Time will tell... <br />
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-47431650925421665332020-02-16T11:06:00.003-05:002020-02-16T12:32:38.240-05:00More Boat Projects in Paradise<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
After an
indulgent <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2020/02/saba.html">extended weekend in Saba</a>, attention was quickly re-focused on
Argon. We had a few more days tied to a dock at Simpson Bay Marina on the dutch side of St. Martin thus a perfect time to tackle our latest nautical to do list. <br />
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<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
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<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
</div>
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<h2>
Back to Cruising Life - More Boat Projects in Paradise</h2>
Just few weeks ago we were feeling accomplished when numerous <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2020/01/boat-projects-in-paradise.html">projects and chores where completed while docked at Nelson's Dockyard</a>, English Harbor. But alas, the new list started to form even before we left Antigua. <br />
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<h3>
Topping Lift</h3>
The topping lift runs from the top of the mast to the aft end of the boom. Most of the time it hangs a bit slack and does nothing. Sometimes, such as when motoring in sloshing seas, the topping lift is important for holding the boom up off the bimini and dodger. Recently (ever since bending <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/grenada-better-second-time-around.html">the new main sail in Grenada</a>) the topping lift has caused us trouble periodically by fouling in the leech cleat, batten pockets or reefing rings causing angst and mild terror when struggling to drop the sail including once when approaching dangerous reefs in Barbuda. The assessment, options and solution will be a topic of a separate blog coming soon.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOmWYMmTADzCTAsRH3eZHsIFKW6pTk3VbCDGCGialfO4p2YkIgOoer6BLILhC-r5Kg2rlL7Y-zSOnQNeHwk0ztN-7v2WBHf96pZtrqaqODhtcqjQCKiVyqZEFUvBaXP3Yt8Yds8vI4eg/s1600/P1090851.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOmWYMmTADzCTAsRH3eZHsIFKW6pTk3VbCDGCGialfO4p2YkIgOoer6BLILhC-r5Kg2rlL7Y-zSOnQNeHwk0ztN-7v2WBHf96pZtrqaqODhtcqjQCKiVyqZEFUvBaXP3Yt8Yds8vI4eg/s400/P1090851.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The
topping lift has been causing problems - getting caught in the leech cleat, Antal
rings (for reefing) and the batten pockets. This has been quite
frustrating and a bit scary when it interferes with getting the sail
down. Bob has been thinking a lot about options. A detailed sailing geek blog dedicated to the topping lift is forthcoming.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugpIL29WghI-OmTqxiTWgjVVQ97yolUs4HC493l7Snlt63JduHui1DjH_H6EC0DKNq5tM2Kh4w7Wn5QGM-KIe54-7Qze-NU23VtK1w5wSo6ewAogSeVczW1IOC4UXw6lRASigRXTfqcQ/s1600/IMG-20200214-WA0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugpIL29WghI-OmTqxiTWgjVVQ97yolUs4HC493l7Snlt63JduHui1DjH_H6EC0DKNq5tM2Kh4w7Wn5QGM-KIe54-7Qze-NU23VtK1w5wSo6ewAogSeVczW1IOC4UXw6lRASigRXTfqcQ/s400/IMG-20200214-WA0001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready to be hoisted up the mast to check out the topping lift and re-run the lazy jacks.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAdy6uTGRlKmXthRWGbIbj61n3Ikr5FnRuCriWYTFWiWvTbbG7BfWFWHFgvfYRmY4-o8S4EfhvhgN2kke_fIxN67o6CTfVmrdkdFk2OLpxt3vnSCXpDcf-IMih26Xu8Xm4Jy7ESchCVI/s1600/IMG_20200129_174308.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAdy6uTGRlKmXthRWGbIbj61n3Ikr5FnRuCriWYTFWiWvTbbG7BfWFWHFgvfYRmY4-o8S4EfhvhgN2kke_fIxN67o6CTfVmrdkdFk2OLpxt3vnSCXpDcf-IMih26Xu8Xm4Jy7ESchCVI/s400/IMG_20200129_174308.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from just above the first set of spreaders to re-run the lazy jacks. Also removed the connection of the topping lift at the top of the mast </td></tr>
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<h3>
Boom Pad Eye and Backing Plate</h3>
It's just a little pad eye... what's the big deal? <br />
<br />
We were awoken suddenly in the early morning dark while anchored near St. George, Grenada, back in November to a crash and loud rhythmic squeaking as the boom thrashed back and forth violently, its inertia accentuating the sounds in the swell. The dock line that runs from under the boom, normally attached snugly to a midships cleat to keep the boom stable and quiet while at anchor, lay slack. Quickly we found the culprit - a busted pad eye. This pad eye also attaches the boom brake (which made the crashing sound when falling on to the deck). @#$%! We re-fasten the boom temporarily and commited to making a more complete assessment at day light.<br />
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Argon's boom is a carbon fiber pocket style. Inside the V of the boom is a flat base allowing for a long hollow chamber for the out haul and reefing lines to run through in addition to the backing plates for the head of the vang and several pad eyes with backing plates to attach various blocks and run lines. After considering options, we decided to move an existing extra pad eye to the recently opened hole. That extra pad eye is normally the attachment for the Wichard Boom Brake. We knew we had mostly upwind sailing in the near future until at least Antigua so this wasn't that urgent as the boom brake is more instrumental when sailing down wind. We planned to fully address the busted pad eye situation in Antigua a few weeks ago, but our time at dock there was during an especially windy spell which prevented us from doing anything that required removing the boom from the mast. But now that we are in St. Martin at a dock with low winds, with more down wind sailing for the next few months, it is time to get this fixed appropriately. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkdyeVRyPt-_DZQqldsGi0A1i6ObRrNOtCctzqtvmjfdncQ6gY4zAgmOt-lk5IjlUWQSN_TzNYlNJgPX3Qepmq_V4UhSDYxNVEVCy0SITZoqSnSLpKCTA6xe_Q1EfYe62_L3_NLtg2mA/s1600/20191129_070223.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkdyeVRyPt-_DZQqldsGi0A1i6ObRrNOtCctzqtvmjfdncQ6gY4zAgmOt-lk5IjlUWQSN_TzNYlNJgPX3Qepmq_V4UhSDYxNVEVCy0SITZoqSnSLpKCTA6xe_Q1EfYe62_L3_NLtg2mA/s400/20191129_070223.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back in November (Grenada) a pad eye under the boom busted (strangely,
while we were at anchor). Now that
we are in the cruiser's shopping mall of the Caribbean and on a dock, it is
time to get this fixed properly.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBrRpPK-4ZYWf_-ENdlpOQMCPleszq-ck13coYffzcmajwuTcIVCZ1DnmqkQ5L5DLZ0QUB2Inqip1Q5mCUXBs39Sr0IF3ONemxgrziryRo_ytgQNx5Pr8tDo-3hEfZDgFjGac-cBtkg4/s1600/IMG_20200130_074338.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBrRpPK-4ZYWf_-ENdlpOQMCPleszq-ck13coYffzcmajwuTcIVCZ1DnmqkQ5L5DLZ0QUB2Inqip1Q5mCUXBs39Sr0IF3ONemxgrziryRo_ytgQNx5Pr8tDo-3hEfZDgFjGac-cBtkg4/s400/IMG_20200130_074338.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main
sail taken off on a low wind morning in preparation to try to get the busted backing plate out of the
boom. Good time to also inspect the sail track cars and replace any
missing ball bearings. We wanted to use the broken backing plate as a template to get a new one fabricated and remove it to prevent it from perhaps fouling something someday.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-VyCDAzWhY22QPp6KIeFyiF-w9sE9tz61X-8fVA3wYJ36Ekg9cU9XrdaquNTjZlxRmDLs8_Ozpo1TxuANo2Za4tYDMoONXnvkdJBq9Wb4OtF4HH_hHGwapSaotsc8lC1rVqstXvzEv8E/s1600/20200130_081340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-VyCDAzWhY22QPp6KIeFyiF-w9sE9tz61X-8fVA3wYJ36Ekg9cU9XrdaquNTjZlxRmDLs8_Ozpo1TxuANo2Za4tYDMoONXnvkdJBq9Wb4OtF4HH_hHGwapSaotsc8lC1rVqstXvzEv8E/s400/20200130_081340.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First, let's retrieve the broken backing plate from the boom by tilting the boom up... </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVzr3Z1qNpUQcpftPWUedfF9_tDMRLyKYNCUAPxUraEKX0trGGGcfaFi3FllvV_kqTOdcCVzndIZ1Pj2XXf0J_V_YP3Rgvmz_MmeX7rW3ZVtjoEad_0PTsXbiLoyupOKJYhO8iaTFEpSQ/s1600/IMG_20200130_081124.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVzr3Z1qNpUQcpftPWUedfF9_tDMRLyKYNCUAPxUraEKX0trGGGcfaFi3FllvV_kqTOdcCVzndIZ1Pj2XXf0J_V_YP3Rgvmz_MmeX7rW3ZVtjoEad_0PTsXbiLoyupOKJYhO8iaTFEpSQ/s400/IMG_20200130_081124.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ok, tilt it more; shake it around. Nothing. No sign of the backing plate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNGqARIouEMpiBS6T_hiGoINX_a4ffwqzaDn3cXtd25-5KFiOy6-9yDsY6zQji1910dowaxgwjB6u1_KzlCnIcHu5MdD_GK4yMy01iSFxK9oq0kF81LZSCOapOUHytXgZSyzlqANctm-M/s1600/IMG_20200130_101508.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNGqARIouEMpiBS6T_hiGoINX_a4ffwqzaDn3cXtd25-5KFiOy6-9yDsY6zQji1910dowaxgwjB6u1_KzlCnIcHu5MdD_GK4yMy01iSFxK9oq0kF81LZSCOapOUHytXgZSyzlqANctm-M/s400/IMG_20200130_101508.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's try removing the boom completely and hanging it vertical.
(What can go wrong?) Ugh - still no backing plate! Bob said it must have gone
in to another dimension.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljYIrShnJOTYBHim24pcPezI-2dVS_xxWdmPM8zMp9CBv4xqns_slDdceWFctHvxFg-csq4QWgKVBMkJt7pibjJrKeFjOfR7xcVQAzVdxQWjNeGMb4WgIW7ruHqBNiiGMTgv0zB9nlhw/s1600/IMG_20200130_111652.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljYIrShnJOTYBHim24pcPezI-2dVS_xxWdmPM8zMp9CBv4xqns_slDdceWFctHvxFg-csq4QWgKVBMkJt7pibjJrKeFjOfR7xcVQAzVdxQWjNeGMb4WgIW7ruHqBNiiGMTgv0zB9nlhw/s400/IMG_20200130_111652.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ok,
now dinghy across the lagoon over to FKG Rigging to get a new pad eye and backing plate
fabricated (and a spare). $200 and a couple days later - voila!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKcK9Gpyilhsmvj_8q8CI09FrDRmZDkoK8qOmhofJp2ZFJUtKLuVy7CXan0zImlnSGYgXxKT1rmTz1PU8kBsNxyIw0bLXzwyczRyTxIKsukNHET3OK097WbZ0AZkHQZ2ibtlgMKDOWXEM/s1600/IMG_20200204_153800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKcK9Gpyilhsmvj_8q8CI09FrDRmZDkoK8qOmhofJp2ZFJUtKLuVy7CXan0zImlnSGYgXxKT1rmTz1PU8kBsNxyIw0bLXzwyczRyTxIKsukNHET3OK097WbZ0AZkHQZ2ibtlgMKDOWXEM/s400/IMG_20200204_153800.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New pad eye and backing plate; and a spare.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggh4Fn_6ucpHHBGDlq2CfYwcqQTW0SPGVu_tMF3q8DKLGOliCnWwXy1olY31Pyudds_HnUUlNcACMPq9xnJkyboQddrn9K4uNMO-ymbEZiK4cZOT-2D3ctjSZu78XdEQR_pCRWipwLtbY/s1600/IMG_20200204_154014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggh4Fn_6ucpHHBGDlq2CfYwcqQTW0SPGVu_tMF3q8DKLGOliCnWwXy1olY31Pyudds_HnUUlNcACMPq9xnJkyboQddrn9K4uNMO-ymbEZiK4cZOT-2D3ctjSZu78XdEQR_pCRWipwLtbY/s400/IMG_20200204_154014.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Messenger line attached for the patience-testing activity of getting the new pad eye through the boom, pulled in to the slot in the carbon, and re-fastened.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzWHlRdXOctHhjroJ-6gupx7jsOmsJ5-oRT4mw9J6GREDWV1eZSCuPn2yxP2lVrqVmzed1C5u_oRBuT38S3ufzX0tSNZzWmIRuEmYCXa7iwrwhKjcQze59j5F4aOJ2IGizTRmSMdYgyI/s1600/20200204_155401.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzWHlRdXOctHhjroJ-6gupx7jsOmsJ5-oRT4mw9J6GREDWV1eZSCuPn2yxP2lVrqVmzed1C5u_oRBuT38S3ufzX0tSNZzWmIRuEmYCXa7iwrwhKjcQze59j5F4aOJ2IGizTRmSMdYgyI/s400/20200204_155401.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After several tries and permutations with messenger lines and a metal hook...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSccSfbbCTFZkxYS4H-LrDXJpykBUkHR5U6ggt4pA1U3-Xie5Enlw9eP1ulwhZ1DxTt1nEJOWRgQ_uLzJYkoMu7HAGchfGMV97eqdGVolVVN-oI6X_MY6GN3sGdgs1zyCe33FTXX-3R4/s1600/20200204_160157.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSccSfbbCTFZkxYS4H-LrDXJpykBUkHR5U6ggt4pA1U3-Xie5Enlw9eP1ulwhZ1DxTt1nEJOWRgQ_uLzJYkoMu7HAGchfGMV97eqdGVolVVN-oI6X_MY6GN3sGdgs1zyCe33FTXX-3R4/s400/20200204_160157.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost... now to get those fasteners in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwUcabOimeA0UmwEsipLRgLmdjzcMsUGpzgoUi3DkxH2pBJrXNDjUhoUVybVWU4bRdTWTLQ6fFjtqS9uJaUU4drG8bglWK4t7-8TPD1LddBivcKv3Pz87cnEgB-ocUUW15CL86r0rw9A/s1600/20200204_162859.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwUcabOimeA0UmwEsipLRgLmdjzcMsUGpzgoUi3DkxH2pBJrXNDjUhoUVybVWU4bRdTWTLQ6fFjtqS9uJaUU4drG8bglWK4t7-8TPD1LddBivcKv3Pz87cnEgB-ocUUW15CL86r0rw9A/s400/20200204_162859.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FKG did a very nice job fabricating the new backing plates without one
to use as a template, but the threaded holes were just a tiny bit off
center of the clearance holes in the carbon. We opened two of them up
just a bit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAObk3xzhdKK8-AgV9tW6LbFLvYa935QExxCaWhQ9i45sleQp4OCj_YIZudc-I2xgT4lrsgHQkcrQH13fnZIv-zjWL-htkjJvG5gI5C00I5VT1YVMjFrtG0B49UwbrI3I-OUDuWPnrI0o/s1600/20200204_164840.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAObk3xzhdKK8-AgV9tW6LbFLvYa935QExxCaWhQ9i45sleQp4OCj_YIZudc-I2xgT4lrsgHQkcrQH13fnZIv-zjWL-htkjJvG5gI5C00I5VT1YVMjFrtG0B49UwbrI3I-OUDuWPnrI0o/s400/20200204_164840.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ta-da!!! Phew, that was quite the project. Now time to get the main sail back on.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Dinghy Scrubbing</h3>
Algae and barnacle growth on the bottom of Argon as well as the dinghy requires regular attention. Argon has ablative anti-fouling bottom paint which helps control the growth but still requires us (and occasionally a professional diver) to scrub and scrape. The growth on the aluminum dinghy bottom and hypalon inflated pontoons is particularly stubborn. I have been unable to get the dinghy bottom clean with a scrub brush while she has been in the water. This is going to require a more concerted effort and chemicals.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGnEnZT6QF8k2tY2As4d591y3LkqRJFSTfW0xiMoazKA3h758QHvFk69ZW2IPSqnJvXMlpXjz_143I-zW3dfvUYzKxJgI5JvXCIwY-flLKbV4FYtzLCRP2hlM05p6zhbfSbGZQTMAnBLE/s1600/IMG_20200121_091549%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGnEnZT6QF8k2tY2As4d591y3LkqRJFSTfW0xiMoazKA3h758QHvFk69ZW2IPSqnJvXMlpXjz_143I-zW3dfvUYzKxJgI5JvXCIwY-flLKbV4FYtzLCRP2hlM05p6zhbfSbGZQTMAnBLE/s400/IMG_20200121_091549%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinghy bottom <b>before</b>: The stubborn algae was impossible to scrub off with a stiff brush in the water. Time for more concerted effort (and chemicals).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJe0bqFu-Orj0UfksWqOP8ruqqKp3GybMOuYTxfSFQqGmSl1WcxsD_XdOJijMO9b9rPBZc70vkIXZcjGvc3_y-Nf-cRfPJIMZTHjspLLJ2dzwpyW26QbxVfN15FL1hF3YqgzgMhM2XlI/s1600/P1100007.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJe0bqFu-Orj0UfksWqOP8ruqqKp3GybMOuYTxfSFQqGmSl1WcxsD_XdOJijMO9b9rPBZc70vkIXZcjGvc3_y-Nf-cRfPJIMZTHjspLLJ2dzwpyW26QbxVfN15FL1hF3YqgzgMhM2XlI/s400/P1100007.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The outboard, bench, and all contents removed; dinghy hauled up on to
the dock, Calbert and I attack the dinghy with diluted On-Off, Simple
Green, Magic Eraser, regular boat soap and elbow grease.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDnulFoJgHfECZGD0THbH5DIRxPi6LjlQwZrvW941HCnRoKN4Se1j9Zz6dOtt75hhL5U1ffa6WzzC29VpfMQq6bZ20_3kTsutRZdx5NTOQHvFk2vINLDk3ehjzw8cPU0PNZEwjhaovlY/s1600/P1100009.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDnulFoJgHfECZGD0THbH5DIRxPi6LjlQwZrvW941HCnRoKN4Se1j9Zz6dOtt75hhL5U1ffa6WzzC29VpfMQq6bZ20_3kTsutRZdx5NTOQHvFk2vINLDk3ehjzw8cPU0PNZEwjhaovlY/s400/P1100009.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>After: </b>Much
better! We are now going to be more disciplined about hoisting the dinghy on the davits
more often when not in use to keep the growth at bay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Hull & Deck Waxing, Stainless Polishing, Teak Cleaning</h3>
The salt and sun wage constant assault on a boat. I set my sights on polishing the stainless steel, waxing the gel coat decks, and cleaning the teach cockpit. Help is employed to clean and wax Argon's hull.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLEv5Z-OY5uIcuREZ3F0RHlwws2S_KfXQjFYVHgAkrFV5qXKHh4-Ic6hsBcsGVASFp4KH7GaebGSUCY8egFNP60TzarGSLfmjUG3I-ygKQj0F4Hq_0AZ9iO_RbVVqkX43gKObLlLGiglM/s1600/IMG_20200130_091908.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLEv5Z-OY5uIcuREZ3F0RHlwws2S_KfXQjFYVHgAkrFV5qXKHh4-Ic6hsBcsGVASFp4KH7GaebGSUCY8egFNP60TzarGSLfmjUG3I-ygKQj0F4Hq_0AZ9iO_RbVVqkX43gKObLlLGiglM/s400/IMG_20200130_091908.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I splurge and hire Calbert and Pete to clean and wax Argon's hull while I work on the waxing, polishing and other cleaning.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxXypTqXwyliHEKpGpvIrpd_SJNl674-keFsQwQgT5vMi5eVTLZZrn3P6-wf9s8H3IBVPa2BvDwAKHeJXccPm0B2xYd5FBbvR4uN_hX0Hsz6J6JSJGHA7mcbnItALHbRIYqd2WsecLto/s1600/IMG_20200129_133357.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxXypTqXwyliHEKpGpvIrpd_SJNl674-keFsQwQgT5vMi5eVTLZZrn3P6-wf9s8H3IBVPa2BvDwAKHeJXccPm0B2xYd5FBbvR4uN_hX0Hsz6J6JSJGHA7mcbnItALHbRIYqd2WsecLto/s400/IMG_20200129_133357.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some
of the products used to help keep Argon shiny: Scotch Guard and 3M for
waxing the hull and gel coat. And some Awlgrip wax (not pictured) for a finishing touch on the hull. Flitz for
polishing the stainless steel along with OsPho and Spotless Stainless
for the more stubborn rust spots.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgo1N7ZU141Vhiv1KB4FS_0s7AO19OLyB5sVuEiupv7KWKwkP0E1V8ggavWFpDiz9WpIDQY5xA0iCQGsNP1Dl1LUk-4ddTVMp-Wj2M84EV1jOQCC6MtNIVoyS8DIDiIS99m9QLPGETsY8/s1600/IMG_20191110_163955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgo1N7ZU141Vhiv1KB4FS_0s7AO19OLyB5sVuEiupv7KWKwkP0E1V8ggavWFpDiz9WpIDQY5xA0iCQGsNP1Dl1LUk-4ddTVMp-Wj2M84EV1jOQCC6MtNIVoyS8DIDiIS99m9QLPGETsY8/s400/IMG_20191110_163955.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cockpit teak scrubbing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwFenneptMAKp-ZleOk7Y6Mgr_CqXeJBy0j4DjQCbWxNRSvai0V2bnCn3b10GtZw5g2uzl1fTypU4VUV6DLVxI98fP-CIhJh2vVhP4KbwnsKRZfRaBYBSxY63vntlPWCOpLKuJ4Go6HhU/s1600/IMG_20200214_145033%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwFenneptMAKp-ZleOk7Y6Mgr_CqXeJBy0j4DjQCbWxNRSvai0V2bnCn3b10GtZw5g2uzl1fTypU4VUV6DLVxI98fP-CIhJh2vVhP4KbwnsKRZfRaBYBSxY63vntlPWCOpLKuJ4Go6HhU/s400/IMG_20200214_145033%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deck waxing started in St. Martin and finished while at anchor in Anguilla. Well, is it ever <i>finished</i>?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Water Treatment, Tank Filling, Strainer Cleaning and Laundry</h3>
Argon carries 135 gallons of water between two tanks. We have no water maker nor a sophisticated water treatment system. To keep the tank water potable, we flush the tanks periodically (difficult with scarcity and expense of good water in the Caribbean) and the add chlorine. When there is enough fresh water to spare, I can do some laundry by hand. Raw water filters for the refrigerator, diesel and air conditioner are checked and cleaned regularly.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_5hNK8Uqb3t3COSPVX6jMhef6NzyEtrDRo7gTAnR04C80QePBkN2L83970idp5yZRTdS7OIcMx1R_7nG81JNRPOOYauIQb6BM-MFMpVl9qIJVRxECJRsCUYZEUcrV1_DmE_1l9oaBjt0/s1600/IMG_20200204_104341.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_5hNK8Uqb3t3COSPVX6jMhef6NzyEtrDRo7gTAnR04C80QePBkN2L83970idp5yZRTdS7OIcMx1R_7nG81JNRPOOYauIQb6BM-MFMpVl9qIJVRxECJRsCUYZEUcrV1_DmE_1l9oaBjt0/s400/IMG_20200204_104341.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water
tanks were low so we decided to give them a good shock with some extra
bleach while we were away in Saba. Then inspect to ensure all looked
fairly clean and clear, followed by a good flushing. Having access to good potable water at the
marina (at 20 cents / gallon!) allowed us to have full water tanks upon
departure. We can last up to 3 weeks with very careful usage.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjjtotYe4wDf9k3p37bk8r6UvU1kGdbvEEVLdd0Jgvu-2ktLlh249BPUqn1F8jUJjXUplMsBTUX4PXWaZJjjF7rNH6G_blvfNyvbYt2OF4f2gaXLE5lnDJhLIh7tGQ9LHwIc7cC38LSwE/s1600/IMG_20200204_144223.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjjtotYe4wDf9k3p37bk8r6UvU1kGdbvEEVLdd0Jgvu-2ktLlh249BPUqn1F8jUJjXUplMsBTUX4PXWaZJjjF7rNH6G_blvfNyvbYt2OF4f2gaXLE5lnDJhLIh7tGQ9LHwIc7cC38LSwE/s400/IMG_20200204_144223.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good
time to check the refrigerator and diesel raw water strainers. In
addition to needing a cleaning, this one is getting corroded and will soon
be replaced.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04fNakOeBtNDhyphenhyphenpgOV11dLlpD07P8uTjpLxL_y3QcFXPrb702UDsr8AgdYyBfREuaeyB7K31z4WnjXC9OrxaEsWKdORHHD7OsFAVwYlnPWJ0PI1dWoaOYarTuO7epPGSjUIh95bAzUmM/s1600/IMG_20200204_171302.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04fNakOeBtNDhyphenhyphenpgOV11dLlpD07P8uTjpLxL_y3QcFXPrb702UDsr8AgdYyBfREuaeyB7K31z4WnjXC9OrxaEsWKdORHHD7OsFAVwYlnPWJ0PI1dWoaOYarTuO7epPGSjUIh95bAzUmM/s400/IMG_20200204_171302.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Several loads of laundry were done at a nearby laundromat but some items were best hand washed on board.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Jib Furling Drum Repair</h3>
The Harken furling systems are mostly very well designed. The weak spot is the top and bottom platters inside the drum. They consist of semi-circles of plastic held together by two fasteners. The problem is that the attachment for these fasteners breaks over time. More than a year ago in Bermuda, Bob did a "hack" to hold the platters together after this breakage. The problem if they separate is that they can no longer spin freely inside the drum. And spinning freely is the main thing a furling system is supposed to do.<br />
<br />
While sailing from the dutch to the french side of St. Martin, we noticed that the jib was getting difficult to furl (again) and upon inspection, the Bermuda hack had failed and the bottom platter had separated. It was time to re-hack it. Always the engineer, Bob was saying something about a re-design and buying a 3D printer when we get home.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9W4OP2-6csRr7Spo_HM7-cOnY0oTRBKqdt9Zppyw2hClVEu1gQF4Amc1vfhcqKQVotBMGJLBPrfmTJsMhyd0LEHJqMbjT8gv_TpuXJmQcD6_wtskUkOm3SPb1SkgAHetSDjbWj0DAPqI/s1600/IMG_20200206_171504%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9W4OP2-6csRr7Spo_HM7-cOnY0oTRBKqdt9Zppyw2hClVEu1gQF4Amc1vfhcqKQVotBMGJLBPrfmTJsMhyd0LEHJqMbjT8gv_TpuXJmQcD6_wtskUkOm3SPb1SkgAHetSDjbWj0DAPqI/s400/IMG_20200206_171504%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After
departing Simpson Bay Marina en route to Marigot on the french side of
St. Martin, we realized that the jib furler had an issue. Luckily Bob was able to fix it at anchor without taking down the jib as the winds were up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
WiFi Router - Failed Attempt to Resuscitate</h3>
Our beloved ArgonAfloat network is served by a Ubiquity Bullet Titanium router mounted up on the radar mast. The router has been getting flaky over the last few months sometimes working great, other times not so much. Normally cleaning connections and chanting incantations has solved the issue, but now it seems, the Bullet itself is really dead. Bob unmounted it from the mast and did some testing down below and declared "He's dead, Jim". It's been baking in the sun and freezing in the winter for five years, so we don't feel too badly about it. Fortunately, we are at a point in the cruise where we can primarily rely on mobile data from here on out anyway. We're shopping for replacement solutions (maybe another Bullet), but won't buy anything until we are stateside again.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQTXHbTLmxKHVH4JvVc1ijWr2odRN1DhncGBGd5QqDgKnBpMgmeokWINcqNPt_edDfjpI12pxSdY_vx5BB8hHHFWFruZt3Xqsu-kffDXBhTwIbdr7LjpBRs_j5vFuxjocivmabxrXiHc/s1600/IMG_20200209_115605%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQTXHbTLmxKHVH4JvVc1ijWr2odRN1DhncGBGd5QqDgKnBpMgmeokWINcqNPt_edDfjpI12pxSdY_vx5BB8hHHFWFruZt3Xqsu-kffDXBhTwIbdr7LjpBRs_j5vFuxjocivmabxrXiHc/s400/IMG_20200209_115605%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Resuscitation of the WiFi router failed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Vented Loop and Engine Check</h3>
The sump has been periodically kicking in even when no water is being flushed down its drains. If no water is flowing <i>in </i>to the sump, the only other source is that the discharge is siphoning back. A couple years ago, we added a vented loop to the sump discharge which solved the issue until recently. While in St. Martin we purchased a new vented loop and a spare. Time to crawl in to the aft bowls of Argon and replace. And, while back there, we also opened up the access panels to the starboard side of the diesel for an inspection revealing a broken air intake filter laying on the
floor of the engine room. The foam was pretty much disintegrated.
Another item to write on the shopping list (and we'll get a spare of
course). In the meantime, we fabricate a new temporary one.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMHT5vUDCEE86SjL7I0Qrs5n3mv4j60UXZDmQcazEZLFUsTYecII7eCqaIPSuUgMu33fw3fYI_AJjHKYTKS6NfTcsHZSe4eK9YYhJeZvgOuO3Asww8Wp2ql0AlfOwBPUGR6FbfzLAE9w/s1600/IMG_20200215_130445%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1074" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMHT5vUDCEE86SjL7I0Qrs5n3mv4j60UXZDmQcazEZLFUsTYecII7eCqaIPSuUgMu33fw3fYI_AJjHKYTKS6NfTcsHZSe4eK9YYhJeZvgOuO3Asww8Wp2ql0AlfOwBPUGR6FbfzLAE9w/s400/IMG_20200215_130445%257E2.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After clearing out the aft cabin (that functions as our storage
closet for all sorts of stuff) Bob crawls back behind the cabin to
replace the vented loop for the sump.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RQLlySZft_0YUjstdIuD6LFC6fk1gkUGtTqY1NIjrZQ11a343Xb_LJF6tyr7rjaICF8e-4lWhW9yZ8Hkk38OBkJHOJNuWUFIpeWYFl4txdzlAyTITp8Sl-OwcHNmvT5j54rsJ7rxJ0w/s1600/IMG_20200215_132323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RQLlySZft_0YUjstdIuD6LFC6fk1gkUGtTqY1NIjrZQ11a343Xb_LJF6tyr7rjaICF8e-4lWhW9yZ8Hkk38OBkJHOJNuWUFIpeWYFl4txdzlAyTITp8Sl-OwcHNmvT5j54rsJ7rxJ0w/s400/IMG_20200215_132323.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upon peering in to the engine compartment I see the air filter has broken off.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTgV5NTValY2JlAWmo-qq398TgJscKjHAG-xxUOhHAQhTiZuPTB-1WWDeYL1RrdA76HrmpYSCgpDsPglJsPwToACI9fcQvDKg57R8RKtAgDiNCTk6ahJuCeXzDc6FoAyvPeWVD3vlavY/s1600/20200215_133107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1253" data-original-width="1600" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTgV5NTValY2JlAWmo-qq398TgJscKjHAG-xxUOhHAQhTiZuPTB-1WWDeYL1RrdA76HrmpYSCgpDsPglJsPwToACI9fcQvDKg57R8RKtAgDiNCTk6ahJuCeXzDc6FoAyvPeWVD3vlavY/s400/20200215_133107.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We decide to sacrifice a linen top of mine to make a new air filter.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxKKunYYYBNtZEYT45IRmzLhtcHRBzRdBdpr6v7OUgiZ93dMLpZKzFIOUYEZMKKGZZDXRFa2PoYhGPVzOF3t9OKqyVmq9aaCbNXdAgiq1UDSXGstkCD4hI2-OrONAny1se8F9EIOyZBMA/s1600/20200215_134140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxKKunYYYBNtZEYT45IRmzLhtcHRBzRdBdpr6v7OUgiZ93dMLpZKzFIOUYEZMKKGZZDXRFa2PoYhGPVzOF3t9OKqyVmq9aaCbNXdAgiq1UDSXGstkCD4hI2-OrONAny1se8F9EIOyZBMA/s400/20200215_134140.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jerry-rigged air filter. And one less white top.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h2>
Fishing and Sailing</h2>
Although maintenance and repairs are continual, and demands of <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/working-while-cruising.html">our day jobs are constant</a>, we feel pretty caught up and will be able to spend more time sailing and exploring for the next week or so.<br />
<br />
Experimentation with different fishing lures continue as we troll between islands with recent activity. And we eagerly await the arrival of dear friends as we round out our stay in Anguilla.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPWmj6efLLZf2Anj9TEjiOI2R26MI9W8Z9QPS2t08Om9h6iPdT0yh2M9RQFjCCOCRxJuSCTeoq-gBJvhUUGO5I4qbl1ZDFmfWIMlRDBhI9v-KVJa0F4zJTD32tkza7gpuZI12_OCA_oU/s1600/IMG_20200209_084805%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1207" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPWmj6efLLZf2Anj9TEjiOI2R26MI9W8Z9QPS2t08Om9h6iPdT0yh2M9RQFjCCOCRxJuSCTeoq-gBJvhUUGO5I4qbl1ZDFmfWIMlRDBhI9v-KVJa0F4zJTD32tkza7gpuZI12_OCA_oU/s400/IMG_20200209_084805%257E3.jpg" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Switching up lures off the coast of St. Martin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhetZ4CJ_iH9dE7wf38d765urzkHXNMHRoIk_z78uX2bMn0Rm3OiewlwTK-n7NPSPT7VPAt2fv2dyy49aUUqGMU129TDXdWHBCnpdckpZDmBz4CTYPotiLgG3MPokXKiAUgBbt4LRm2tKQ/s1600/20200128_091925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhetZ4CJ_iH9dE7wf38d765urzkHXNMHRoIk_z78uX2bMn0Rm3OiewlwTK-n7NPSPT7VPAt2fv2dyy49aUUqGMU129TDXdWHBCnpdckpZDmBz4CTYPotiLgG3MPokXKiAUgBbt4LRm2tKQ/s400/20200128_091925.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Landed and carefully released modest sized barracuda.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZn2EaCE-h3loJrmXBUJ1iQxz653WwrviV95zomdoKf1ZximSrJg4HKubzD5aYc1mIyHCFk__2ZL_EsfUkJWAo-aeNtgD8lIvXx1LID6QrGVcdO7otGn3w8vuhZ-JAFBJoRiJZRAVkYAo/s1600/IMG_20200209_100646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZn2EaCE-h3loJrmXBUJ1iQxz653WwrviV95zomdoKf1ZximSrJg4HKubzD5aYc1mIyHCFk__2ZL_EsfUkJWAo-aeNtgD8lIvXx1LID6QrGVcdO7otGn3w8vuhZ-JAFBJoRiJZRAVkYAo/s400/IMG_20200209_100646.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First time using a simple cedar plug en route to Anguilla catches this marlin but only after his hind third was chomped by a shark or some other big fish. I was able to fillet a fair amount of delicious meat off the remaining part.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggXUUsBL89twmli-8HL56gxG6_PuiACik7mE3HQPqh-5R59_9hzldax1hlNVhrq2B2FGM5wpe18J9MiJJy8FO7w3xRi380KG_z73lFgxqMnG_7LjBYSVoUlpBC4WU0hRm3_Hzk7RcemMM/s1600/IMG_20200214_083941%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggXUUsBL89twmli-8HL56gxG6_PuiACik7mE3HQPqh-5R59_9hzldax1hlNVhrq2B2FGM5wpe18J9MiJJy8FO7w3xRi380KG_z73lFgxqMnG_7LjBYSVoUlpBC4WU0hRm3_Hzk7RcemMM/s400/IMG_20200214_083941%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My office while at anchor in Road Bay, Anguilla.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIYE7myLT1353uiAo7ZPIfygFIVRpNNojuJAGqmPqwzRZ0-YPaQbSQcytOS4vWEPbuhOf415wYvoiLrQOgSUFIPQv9Uy1219UCN8Vu1SaqZtILJ8oG9HH87s0u4vPwAikOZwWGQ7Z6ro/s1600/IMG_20200210_124220%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIYE7myLT1353uiAo7ZPIfygFIVRpNNojuJAGqmPqwzRZ0-YPaQbSQcytOS4vWEPbuhOf415wYvoiLrQOgSUFIPQv9Uy1219UCN8Vu1SaqZtILJ8oG9HH87s0u4vPwAikOZwWGQ7Z6ro/s400/IMG_20200210_124220%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob's office for a bit at Sunshine Shack, Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioKgigLFa-eF9iuDE17t7eXqCwUvWAmZX9l4qRK5d22XS3jfVSgJtHeL8-bvFtecJGKGxZOxdtabM8Vckmo4hQUATWxOO48FCsToncwOBsEO8JkAr7HbwDpuciAAxXcQIoiNS4sOb92Sc/s1600/IMG_20200209_150355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioKgigLFa-eF9iuDE17t7eXqCwUvWAmZX9l4qRK5d22XS3jfVSgJtHeL8-bvFtecJGKGxZOxdtabM8Vckmo4hQUATWxOO48FCsToncwOBsEO8JkAr7HbwDpuciAAxXcQIoiNS4sOb92Sc/s400/IMG_20200209_150355.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Johno's, Road Bay Anguilla.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9FJLm2IMHdLJcrxfNKFumNdbm3uCNSv1D3pPpAOswtSp7hZHGIqLX2P7Lcn6EcbHI8HCoHsWUh0IF9QS4VqsSYnLoM6moXuI6_pyJmPF4upQEvzVOzCtb4vIs41LjlbEHoLZ2T4BD3CU/s1600/IMG_20200209_111959%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9FJLm2IMHdLJcrxfNKFumNdbm3uCNSv1D3pPpAOswtSp7hZHGIqLX2P7Lcn6EcbHI8HCoHsWUh0IF9QS4VqsSYnLoM6moXuI6_pyJmPF4upQEvzVOzCtb4vIs41LjlbEHoLZ2T4BD3CU/s400/IMG_20200209_111959%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our neighborhood for a little more than a week - Road Bay, Anguilla.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3H8Bcde1pNsxAVraR8op3p85zfotHTlPnyKhcWAbKK2MZCspH7GXlBS26U6EkdcNQQcbvAa2V0WVlDGRxzhikpOucbYbCGaWYQznD2GrlZrf2cIpuaaN9rudee_C6J2Q5y1j5wcrIDOY/s1600/IMG_20200216_120106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3H8Bcde1pNsxAVraR8op3p85zfotHTlPnyKhcWAbKK2MZCspH7GXlBS26U6EkdcNQQcbvAa2V0WVlDGRxzhikpOucbYbCGaWYQznD2GrlZrf2cIpuaaN9rudee_C6J2Q5y1j5wcrIDOY/s400/IMG_20200216_120106.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even time for some music making now.</td></tr>
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-66895145146297698392020-02-13T07:42:00.001-05:002020-02-15T06:55:18.649-05:00Spectacular Saba Saba is stunning and unique. When asked about our favorite places, Saba is always included in the response. <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2017/01/saba-incredible-and-impossible.html">Bob wrote a really nice blog back in 2017</a> after our initial introduction to this Dutch island. Below are some highlights from our most recent visit.<br />
<i>Disclaimer: We cheated this time and traveled by air.</i><br />
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<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
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<h3>
Getting There</h3>
Everyone seems to know of St. Martin - half French, half Dutch vacation destination and considered the shopping mall of the Caribbean, especially for boat parts and services. Surprisingly, though only a mere 30 miles south/southwest from St. Martin, with its profile easily seen from the southern Dutch side of St. Martin, most people have never even heard of Saba and it is rare that we meet someone that has visited it. This volcanic island is only 5 square miles but rises swiftly to heights of 3,000 feet with its main peak often encircled by clouds nourishing the rain forests of Mount Scenery. Saba's modest population of less than 2,000 is organized mostly across pristine, quaint towns: Windward and The Bottom along with a few in Zion's Hill and St. Johns.<br />
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Saba has a sordid reputation with cruisers... its perimeter is rocky cliffs with no protected harbors. Even <i>Columbus </i>passed on Saba. The steep cliffs above the water continue below the crystal clear ocean with depths dropping quickly providing for precarious at best anchoring. In fact, it is rare to hear of a vessel anchoring off Saba at all; instead there are moorings set off the west coast at Wells and Ladder Bays and the south coast at Fort Bay (a modest breakwater providing a weak semblance of a harbor). It is impossible to snorkel on the moorings to inspect for integrity (as one normally would in the Caribbean) due to the depths (60+ feet).<br />
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Back in 2017 after some researching we picked a good weather window, <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2017/01/saba-incredible-and-impossible.html">sailed to Saba</a>, and enjoyed some exploring on land during the day. Bob was nursing a recently broken collar bone limiting our hiking options and when on land we were always worried about Argon as we had read about vessels sometimes breaking away from their moorings off the exposed coast susceptible to even slight worsening of weather.<br />
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Fast forward three years and we happily find ourselves with another opportunity to visit Saba. This time we were eager to spend more time exploring the unique island on foot. To avoid fretting over conditions or safety of Argon, we decided to look in to alternatives. There is a daily ferry from Philipsburg, St Martin which seems to be a popular way get there. However, more thrilling, are one of the regular 20 minute Win Air flights from SXM airport on St. Martin to the world's shortest commercial runway on the northeast coast of Saba. We booked a flight for a long weekend.<br />
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This is no normal runway... it is a 400 meter strip on a heavily excavated patch on the eastern coast flanked on one side by high steep hills, and cliffs dropping in to the sea at both ends. Only STOL (short take off and landing) planes such as the DHC-6 Twin Otter are allowed to land and pilots need a special certification. The trip to and from the island was as fantastic as our on land exploration.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ_m4s_xd7R_dZbPZwxbmbiUVZR3Fyf5nqzfFYweKWycFG9Dze8b48liT8OC3z5Oxk9EO7gm3ar_1HV6519oHNUlCAR7y8-u5KU6xhffEi8iJEEyAR4zjTtF7xMcCfmJPJYv-F6tNH5vE/s1600/P1060368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ_m4s_xd7R_dZbPZwxbmbiUVZR3Fyf5nqzfFYweKWycFG9Dze8b48liT8OC3z5Oxk9EO7gm3ar_1HV6519oHNUlCAR7y8-u5KU6xhffEi8iJEEyAR4zjTtF7xMcCfmJPJYv-F6tNH5vE/s400/P1060368.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture from our first visit in 2017 when we moored off the west coast. Majestic. But also unprotected from any amount of swell from the north or south.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvw0b7njzpKka16WTnXp9Uax0My1YJWZDI8e4ajeje1T6chPA-xZJ03Q5SFktOAcfHzyDcwMcvuimZ5nVglmtT15hyphenhyphenlomNQkKqLrgQ0BV3xcGS-GT369bOXwEqVh7wAydycLnWieYwkw/s1600/IMG_20200131_072410%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvw0b7njzpKka16WTnXp9Uax0My1YJWZDI8e4ajeje1T6chPA-xZJ03Q5SFktOAcfHzyDcwMcvuimZ5nVglmtT15hyphenhyphenlomNQkKqLrgQ0BV3xcGS-GT369bOXwEqVh7wAydycLnWieYwkw/s400/IMG_20200131_072410%257E2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This trip we decided to fly to Saba instead of sail. This is a view of the jagged north coast of Saba as we approach the truncated runway.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arial view of the small runway strip and the winding road up the steep mountainside.</td></tr>
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Exploring</h3>
We indulged ourselves with three nights on land at the <a href="http://www.seleradunia-saba.com/">Selera Dunia Hotel</a> with spectacular views and a short but challenging (steep!) walk to one of the two main towns. We enjoyed walking around the town of Windward, chatting with locals, visiting the small number of shops and a couple restaurants. As much as I felt like a cheat for not sailing to Saba, it was wonderful to know that Argon was safe and secure at a marina back in St. Martin and we were able to explore and relax like typical vacationers; and enjoy hot showers.<br />
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In addition to Windward, there is an equally lovely town in a lower valley near Fort Bay - The Bottom has government functions, a school, library and health center, and a medical school nestled here.<br />
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Saba is not a place to go to chill on sandy beaches... there are no
beaches around its ragged perimeter except for a tiny one that
periodically forms in Well's Bay when the surf is just right, only to be
washed away again. The two most popular activities on Saba seem to be SCUBA diving and hiking. Mount Scenery is the most popular hike rising up to the top of the volcano usually encircled by clouds. We explored the base of this trail but opted to instead tackle the Sandy Cruz and Ladder Bay hikes. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ghKTnSuAqkO6_V4l_VJC6x6m4HpISnAW6X3WPy1nOvb6zcH73Dgxtyp3gS9pa0-aXJOdUz0l5EyQYy5tUG0e_n2bhsGmw8hLEf9G01blrJElLE7bR9FAaoaz5OK6R-oIkBy6JRQjTQY/s1600/IMG_20200131_121135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ghKTnSuAqkO6_V4l_VJC6x6m4HpISnAW6X3WPy1nOvb6zcH73Dgxtyp3gS9pa0-aXJOdUz0l5EyQYy5tUG0e_n2bhsGmw8hLEf9G01blrJElLE7bR9FAaoaz5OK6R-oIkBy6JRQjTQY/s400/IMG_20200131_121135.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Windward from our hotel.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7k-6kKW0N9o2maw8_dfyGPhwvr5mlJhgEYHGqeU_Rx1NXdl43ZB_CnG8IvAkEoMBEXMFNLEk4GVFaXH3Q9HVv2I49T5AnKmoPXEKwIgjZ3SOgos5vL9QUb-iVvINT-wWrmllXo_olTA/s1600/IMG_20200202_091403.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7k-6kKW0N9o2maw8_dfyGPhwvr5mlJhgEYHGqeU_Rx1NXdl43ZB_CnG8IvAkEoMBEXMFNLEk4GVFaXH3Q9HVv2I49T5AnKmoPXEKwIgjZ3SOgos5vL9QUb-iVvINT-wWrmllXo_olTA/s400/IMG_20200202_091403.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting a bit of work done from our balcony before exploring.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOORL6DpHjRuOLdsGLbPHbnq0wA6_tQY2BLhBx1WzKaBgzOY5HlcYVrJwaC06tROy7jRjIHsg3wckKuQ3JG47b0j3JiQKbbQBNVK3gW2H8_6m1_eYMOpMYmbONk4tKYOw-K3gneIw4uck/s1600/IMG_20200202_161207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOORL6DpHjRuOLdsGLbPHbnq0wA6_tQY2BLhBx1WzKaBgzOY5HlcYVrJwaC06tROy7jRjIHsg3wckKuQ3JG47b0j3JiQKbbQBNVK3gW2H8_6m1_eYMOpMYmbONk4tKYOw-K3gneIw4uck/s400/IMG_20200202_161207.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marie and her jewelry shop in Windward.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBrp8lWqW98OEVb72EBez3erXt2DtdCMxH6a_MgUO4xrixcVwiWikI7Ka5P2aAdoEXYX3LFVwVI3Wu3bfER_l9xFrjBjgcneTYKWmira9vxtm8UqnOH_Xy49Hzv7TXcDiJPquCAi6KnY/s1600/P1100035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBrp8lWqW98OEVb72EBez3erXt2DtdCMxH6a_MgUO4xrixcVwiWikI7Ka5P2aAdoEXYX3LFVwVI3Wu3bfER_l9xFrjBjgcneTYKWmira9vxtm8UqnOH_Xy49Hzv7TXcDiJPquCAi6KnY/s400/P1100035.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of hiking options!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDXwaDt8aZZRopAF0Ra6huJ8DJG1lNbGEnWdA02C6_wH3Ebz-IyMwuGxa13QQ8u-nb5rN91O8MhG693SaNjdDIB1dx33qPtj_aWMP7GxhYx1KKa7djNSJzcewMZw5jOWacmNq3NlLtU8/s1600/IMG_20200131_121223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDXwaDt8aZZRopAF0Ra6huJ8DJG1lNbGEnWdA02C6_wH3Ebz-IyMwuGxa13QQ8u-nb5rN91O8MhG693SaNjdDIB1dx33qPtj_aWMP7GxhYx1KKa7djNSJzcewMZw5jOWacmNq3NlLtU8/s400/IMG_20200131_121223.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dutch influence seen in both overt and subtle ways.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2xcj6OqJTuUXABWOMXrjeFCFIAfDut8Dc9Tv58y5EehY1zmp-oJrnQikBb03lelbsQwwDDyomlXqJKSSUK5OoJOYXTsb91HYEySED0lJFUCBBzA4gcIAslpbKV2te5dc6F9h8H6CqFc/s1600/IMG_20200201_102833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2xcj6OqJTuUXABWOMXrjeFCFIAfDut8Dc9Tv58y5EehY1zmp-oJrnQikBb03lelbsQwwDDyomlXqJKSSUK5OoJOYXTsb91HYEySED0lJFUCBBzA4gcIAslpbKV2te5dc6F9h8H6CqFc/s400/IMG_20200201_102833.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front end of our long Sandy Cruz Trail hike.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9UtbuyOPrVnhpmDJdHlNaqxItFU1NoIWFXKE5Jf93_ndN53ZIFnv8-k4JInsgNXODTQ6pBDPSRTO7oav_QCkmj1JNcJKQkJDjr_q9D_4BPI1UtntJXqWOeB54BCewg4KIhR2QnOua99U/s1600/P1100058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9UtbuyOPrVnhpmDJdHlNaqxItFU1NoIWFXKE5Jf93_ndN53ZIFnv8-k4JInsgNXODTQ6pBDPSRTO7oav_QCkmj1JNcJKQkJDjr_q9D_4BPI1UtntJXqWOeB54BCewg4KIhR2QnOua99U/s400/P1100058.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of lush foliage along the rain forest part of the trail.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGcX4etAiUUXQ6zxKGEbNVJF6DnPnr4iLEVA-szcryvJcy7eCGh7wi0wsLe1StD3oyZWK48uR51XtZeoKRnQnczrSyliV6pFdDA-cIQ9O-1mpSbN8uOkBwoHU1p1oNEKlH0qXUFhPLETA/s1600/P1100071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGcX4etAiUUXQ6zxKGEbNVJF6DnPnr4iLEVA-szcryvJcy7eCGh7wi0wsLe1StD3oyZWK48uR51XtZeoKRnQnczrSyliV6pFdDA-cIQ9O-1mpSbN8uOkBwoHU1p1oNEKlH0qXUFhPLETA/s400/P1100071.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of The Bottom, in the lower valley, at the end of the Sandy Cruz Trail.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beginning of the many steps (about 800) down towards Ladder Bay. Before Fort Bay and the main road was built, this is how supplies got on to the island. After just trying to walk it, I cannot imagine the effort it took to haul goods up this way.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgybl2xkQ5HPdKq7z0KQmIg7c_1oRgNgGQET8eRNK_mSSm6pPo9aYVPuV_q0xKzbaQYH4HTGTTt_fZRgnEnyVbNA_cGP35IAWG68enIJ9Snq2x0h3hr9LkNyRTKTaQduSj3OgF_F-FNVOA/s1600/IMG_20200201_145910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgybl2xkQ5HPdKq7z0KQmIg7c_1oRgNgGQET8eRNK_mSSm6pPo9aYVPuV_q0xKzbaQYH4HTGTTt_fZRgnEnyVbNA_cGP35IAWG68enIJ9Snq2x0h3hr9LkNyRTKTaQduSj3OgF_F-FNVOA/s400/IMG_20200201_145910.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More steps down to Ladder Bay.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDdyB_-xkpciGwBckbbU5uDq6dWEgqLQNMUSn1y7FEDnAcsKck45B-FnIY5jHcqpkfWwL1YFpQeffR-K7R098bbEyoWdO0t_bpotofWYJMaMopLAAXrA21DQm7zu2zH6xCJk8HVJ8H5A/s1600/IMG_20200201_151427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDdyB_-xkpciGwBckbbU5uDq6dWEgqLQNMUSn1y7FEDnAcsKck45B-FnIY5jHcqpkfWwL1YFpQeffR-K7R098bbEyoWdO0t_bpotofWYJMaMopLAAXrA21DQm7zu2zH6xCJk8HVJ8H5A/s400/IMG_20200201_151427.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the final couple hundred steps down to Ladder Bay. We did not quite make it to the base. This is where boats would land on the raw shore to unload and haul goods. Conditions were quite calm on this day but often there is quite a surf here.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Resting on our way back up from Ladder Bay.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJtrqunUUTK-Lk_rLBrBcXMcXghBzheqRMZ087hkF37VAKSVcNzzSIPmQSFfmgkXwPj7FTH_SDAv-4moEmvVvWpMP_VKP-QRbbz6ylMcofSjNYl_EBu49765CDjq9HrAPcnIjef6JFIv4/s1600/IMG_20200131_152305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJtrqunUUTK-Lk_rLBrBcXMcXghBzheqRMZ087hkF37VAKSVcNzzSIPmQSFfmgkXwPj7FTH_SDAv-4moEmvVvWpMP_VKP-QRbbz6ylMcofSjNYl_EBu49765CDjq9HrAPcnIjef6JFIv4/s400/IMG_20200131_152305.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Our Saba excursion was a perfect brief detour from cruising life. It was time, however, to get back to Argon and make the most of the remaining few days in a marina. Boat project list awaits!<br />
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Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-65922185735007232852020-02-08T20:18:00.000-05:002020-02-08T20:41:07.472-05:00...And BarbudaThe name of the country is Antigua <i>and Barbuda</i>, but in all the previous times we've been to Antigua, we've never visited this island until now. It's not the easiest place to get to or be at in a sailboat but if you make the effort, it can be really worth the visit.<br />
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<img height="80px" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--7ESi4mJKMc/VonLI8VAFjI/AAAAAAAATxA/Ja-wE6H4s0c/s144-Ic42/P1010491.JPG" /></div>
Capt. Bob
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<h4>
</h4>
<h3>
Getting there</h3>
We were thinking that the rest of the trip home would be a downwind ride once we got to Antigua. Adding Barbuda to the plan made for one more upwind sail as you head due north (actually about 008 degrees) from the west coast of Antigua for about 30 nautical miles to Barbuda.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRXjuPvF-if5ZTlP2uFKDQo0-QvdU9ghSe2ACXzW4_Oh0xpDJKUewJ1hugc6IPrObL1WDbYzWO19f0tt4SJhdRX1Mp75NDsMyZ4bZT_Bx2vxyS9Y01XXpXCC9G7uLKNQV3RryoaBlqc5A/s1600/Screenshot_20200122-114138.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRXjuPvF-if5ZTlP2uFKDQo0-QvdU9ghSe2ACXzW4_Oh0xpDJKUewJ1hugc6IPrObL1WDbYzWO19f0tt4SJhdRX1Mp75NDsMyZ4bZT_Bx2vxyS9Y01XXpXCC9G7uLKNQV3RryoaBlqc5A/s640/Screenshot_20200122-114138.png" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our track from Deep Bay in Antigua to Coco Point in Barbuda</td></tr>
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Most of the coast of Barbuda is lined with coral reefs and there are areas of uncharted coral heads. It is best approached (and departed) in good light with a person on the bow looking for obstructions by reading the color of the water. Because of these hazards and the fact that Barbuda is such a low-lying island, there are famously said to be 200 shipwrecks around it. The idea is to not be the two hundred <i>first</i>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVAvUdS2KtkGFlk9JveSvF_pvtNEYyta_sTPDQn8TJXuV6wwpkow1XJycEQnnkyZ64WvMKWxZDGV3z8JwajYipAvNu2X1IYzlwYDrx3eGltZ34NElFU-wmZXQiUWclmY4TI_q8FBTUlZI/s1600/IMG_20200122_111043%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVAvUdS2KtkGFlk9JveSvF_pvtNEYyta_sTPDQn8TJXuV6wwpkow1XJycEQnnkyZ64WvMKWxZDGV3z8JwajYipAvNu2X1IYzlwYDrx3eGltZ34NElFU-wmZXQiUWclmY4TI_q8FBTUlZI/s400/IMG_20200122_111043%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Eyeball Navigation" as we approach Coco Point</td></tr>
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You don't see land until you are within just a few miles of Barbuda. Immediately, you are reminded of the Bahamas with low-lying land, beautiful water and those reefs and coral head hazards.<br />
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<h3>
Fitting Barbuda Into Our Itinerary</h3>
Our plan was to leave from Barbuda and head west to our next destination (at the time thinking Nevis/St Kitts). This can potentially cause one more complication. While Barbuda has a Customs office (next to the air strip), they do <i>not </i>have a Port Authority. So if you're leaving the country of Antigua and Barbuda from Barbuda, you have to do your port checkout in Antigua before you go to Barbuda. Luckily, Linda made a phone call and found out this bit of trivia before we found out the hard way.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFCreaBjxEg1I6D7wWt2iYQxe5YoaecSqtUx2sQWV6sRB5ftNCf5V67UTIr44oNEaIPblTGd-cf3gaWzcuplLEhTuNAB71ebZO__eXIj4DADO9WzNxDCvBfcvXRlo163zw8pzoL-B6Vw/s1600/P1090723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFCreaBjxEg1I6D7wWt2iYQxe5YoaecSqtUx2sQWV6sRB5ftNCf5V67UTIr44oNEaIPblTGd-cf3gaWzcuplLEhTuNAB71ebZO__eXIj4DADO9WzNxDCvBfcvXRlo163zw8pzoL-B6Vw/s400/P1090723.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A striking rainbow at Coco Point</td></tr>
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<h3>
The Weird Weather</h3>
One reason we decided to add Barbuda to our plan was that we were in for spell of some very strange weather in that part of the Caribbean. The forecast was for very light and variable winds from various directions for the next week plus. This is in stark contrast to the usual nearly constant East Trade winds that are whipping through here. We liked the sound of the "light" part, because there is not a lot of great shelter to anchor in around Barbuda. But as it turned out, the "various directions" part caused some complication in Barbuda.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-HlaVIAPNyLeaEF7-jG_HqWepd-0Qy-mCX1zMQ2I29Aiqjw3lPROJOF3YR9AT_UaZ_oaTNkIudSs8zwFOnKSWXkUSqTZbdve-9Ekd9Cg4bN5yvUq7_C0c5j1Nybt22gz49J8WYDNpWY/s1600/Screenshot_20200124-160012.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-HlaVIAPNyLeaEF7-jG_HqWepd-0Qy-mCX1zMQ2I29Aiqjw3lPROJOF3YR9AT_UaZ_oaTNkIudSs8zwFOnKSWXkUSqTZbdve-9Ekd9Cg4bN5yvUq7_C0c5j1Nybt22gz49J8WYDNpWY/s640/Screenshot_20200124-160012.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This massive Low in the Atlantic was sucking air from our latitude causing a major dead spot for about a week</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-OB8FbhOqsCe6OXEer_K-Z0HfXva2jp1FBc9v1vIbIHpX1MJuVd-RbYCgOjdKO8RgY7ZxTO4T5SbPHBBugLZ2Ppxo6ji9nGLvakoo7IHEXS0w__GQ3sEyZDowZyOHFCJlwK8WPxDlJKY/s1600/Screenshot_20200124-155940.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-OB8FbhOqsCe6OXEer_K-Z0HfXva2jp1FBc9v1vIbIHpX1MJuVd-RbYCgOjdKO8RgY7ZxTO4T5SbPHBBugLZ2Ppxo6ji9nGLvakoo7IHEXS0w__GQ3sEyZDowZyOHFCJlwK8WPxDlJKY/s640/Screenshot_20200124-155940.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Light wind from the southwest? Yes it was.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnibF1tfiWZP49MzCzckgxY1qTS7Byf6ARE9dFFj50N7IvMG_20WLPJUAU66mJi81ptnE0Y1XcWBOy9Yl_88cfP_5BF0yQEwhCPOPYQeGGsyZfEvcRrmjU8TY1kj0zyY86pQ-q6G6jXqQ/s1600/IMG_20200126_130531%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnibF1tfiWZP49MzCzckgxY1qTS7Byf6ARE9dFFj50N7IvMG_20WLPJUAU66mJi81ptnE0Y1XcWBOy9Yl_88cfP_5BF0yQEwhCPOPYQeGGsyZfEvcRrmjU8TY1kj0zyY86pQ-q6G6jXqQ/s400/IMG_20200126_130531%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anchored in Low Bay outside Codrington Lagoon. This picture looks deceivingly calm as conditions were fairly rolly due to the swells from the west.</td></tr>
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<h3>
The Bar Is Open</h3>
In 2017, Hurricane Irma devastated Barbuda although it largely spared Antigua. Along with causing major property damage which we'll see below, Irma breached the thin sand spit that separated the Caribbean Sea from the huge Codrington Lagoon on the northwest part of the island. The Lagoon was always a salt water body, but this created a new large opening to the lagoon which small skiffs and dinghies can transit. Well, it <i>looks</i> large but there is actually a relatively narrow part that is deep enough and lacks breaking waves to make a safe passage.<br />
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We were anchored in Low Bay just outside of the bar and this opening gave us relatively easy access to Codrington (the only town and where the majority of residents live). Even then, it was nearly a three mile dinghy ride in total because that lagoon is <i>huge!</i> <br />
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Remember the bit about the weird weather? Well at the time, wind and swell was coming from the SW which not only made our anchorage really uncomfortable, but made for some serious breaking waves over the bar. The first time we went through, we had the foresight to record a track on the Navionics Mobile App which would show the safe opening location. As we passed through the opening, we were surfing in the dinghy in some pretty big swell and waves were breaking very hard to the north and south of us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1xr5LTsn8owiKmn0NZFYKadV6hmZdE7xoW94ZVSg9B51AXEpsipUvf0jFnLVoy3Keya6A-7Et0hikbrye2oWPjS0nckYMhj673_6FKPKq8hq3_hCMFS6gH9LskKvO2Z-dgOiIwxqHks/s1600/Screenshot_20200124-144050_Boating+HD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1xr5LTsn8owiKmn0NZFYKadV6hmZdE7xoW94ZVSg9B51AXEpsipUvf0jFnLVoy3Keya6A-7Et0hikbrye2oWPjS0nckYMhj673_6FKPKq8hq3_hCMFS6gH9LskKvO2Z-dgOiIwxqHks/s640/Screenshot_20200124-144050_Boating+HD.jpg" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The track we recorded from the dinghy going through the breach. Navionics still shows it as a solid sandbar.</td></tr>
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It turned out to be a very good thing we had that track because we ended up returning to Argon well after dark that night. The safe opening in the bar is not marked with any sort of buoy much less anything lit. Without this track, it would have been impossible to return to the boat safely!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTDCzGetOwQebDdK143_xokdf0BbdV1r6QixDUJsbKnb92sUeL7iTf7F948AnmpZYh4ntEdxZ98VGH3jvCeMyP3OUmiaQvNjA8UGZP_cd5BmkgpYIU_BM34-fFWnIonUT64W_zX2wMJY/s1600/P1090753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTDCzGetOwQebDdK143_xokdf0BbdV1r6QixDUJsbKnb92sUeL7iTf7F948AnmpZYh4ntEdxZ98VGH3jvCeMyP3OUmiaQvNjA8UGZP_cd5BmkgpYIU_BM34-fFWnIonUT64W_zX2wMJY/s400/P1090753.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A floating boat fender which marks the approximate location of the safe passage through the breach. This is shot from inside the lagoon looking at the bar and you can see the waves breaking over the bar.</td></tr>
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<h3>
The Lifestyle and History</h3>
Barbuda was originally purchased from England by Christopher Codrington (hence the town's name) allegedly for the price of <i>one fat sheep</i>.
There is a disputed belief that Codrington was in the business of
breeding slaves. There is no doubt that there was slavery on Barbuda
(like the rest of the Caribbean). When England emancipated the slaves in
1834, it did not include Barbuda, but Barbuda emancipated at the same
time anyway. Many of the slaves stayed and worked for their former
owners.<br />
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Barbudians are the most friendly people you will meet anywhere in the Caribbean (and that's a high bar). They love living simple lives on their isolated island. Many people could easily live in the more first-world Antigua (or many other places) but don't. Many have lived elsewhere and returned.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5xy2NLeHPhJoFNrCkDWiD1UCjUEwDVNXoYwQYbeQjkIEqIdtLVrt9Oc5FYbVouHfw_CM_omhZ1oeUcDuvpkjzYBI8QMyeRn2WXGda_rrQiApaltVZIrDrUwm3BfanHeOmpyd65keNlU/s1600/IMG_20200124_163657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5xy2NLeHPhJoFNrCkDWiD1UCjUEwDVNXoYwQYbeQjkIEqIdtLVrt9Oc5FYbVouHfw_CM_omhZ1oeUcDuvpkjzYBI8QMyeRn2WXGda_rrQiApaltVZIrDrUwm3BfanHeOmpyd65keNlU/s400/IMG_20200124_163657.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buying fresh produce in Codrington from Talene</td></tr>
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There is some political turmoil and animosity toward Antigua from many
Barbudians. The feeling is that Antigua is using the relief efforts
post-Irma to coerce Barbuda into changing its way of life. Many
(most) Barbudians don't want to see the island turned into a tourist
trap. They live communally and there is no concept of property ownership. Every Barbudian is entitled to a plot of land for residential,
agricultural or business use.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70vFHH8rhp2aDAomRmNnbP5x4jcjSDUAf39HiQZVwPxAI9MBBdq9VnMnuh4Y2gOpxjkSu_ZJWr4EQFaO0691XMPzlQGeoLgirxXoXlUsApUYr3MdLtgDn3Er9a2hFofFZoThWwt88iSM/s1600/IMG_20200124_154256%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70vFHH8rhp2aDAomRmNnbP5x4jcjSDUAf39HiQZVwPxAI9MBBdq9VnMnuh4Y2gOpxjkSu_ZJWr4EQFaO0691XMPzlQGeoLgirxXoXlUsApUYr3MdLtgDn3Er9a2hFofFZoThWwt88iSM/s400/IMG_20200124_154256%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Codrington Traffic Jam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZPhAidzq8T7NkDwd0pk-9A2Qsx_SFGOFfKvML-G5S7vdSo8WfyBzz5yVxhGIkqW2pwl4wOTf5LAQn33O3J1TA-3Iti6rx26-fFLb01OH6ncYV65AGzY4C2CSoYFfcPaJiCBfC-4-16sM/s1600/P1090708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZPhAidzq8T7NkDwd0pk-9A2Qsx_SFGOFfKvML-G5S7vdSo8WfyBzz5yVxhGIkqW2pwl4wOTf5LAQn33O3J1TA-3Iti6rx26-fFLb01OH6ncYV65AGzY4C2CSoYFfcPaJiCBfC-4-16sM/s400/P1090708.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the many horses came to the beach at Coco Point at sunrise</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The few resorts (and former wrecked resorts) are not on purchased property. The owners can lease some land for up to 99 years but that's it. In reality, the chances of a resort lasting that long between major hurricanes is probably quite slim. There is a controversial deal in the works with Robert Di Niro trying to rebuild one of the former resorts.<br />
<br />
On the other side of the coin, there are some Bardudians who would like
to try to establish some commerce and get more money flowing into the
country. They want to do it in a way that is sensitive to the communal
way of life. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMoSjBTWZOvzT7PoMis9pGrYR8Ek4RGsw68x5Sahy4Wg8VDcIqrwWwde9QI8bvGq_svbg6aH-zLe6jrnrMnLBOdyBwjpDaDtC6nqlTDpoq9H62tJ39NUrBo9ird9Ih5E8dMZ5eUfIsDpY/s1600/P1090769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMoSjBTWZOvzT7PoMis9pGrYR8Ek4RGsw68x5Sahy4Wg8VDcIqrwWwde9QI8bvGq_svbg6aH-zLe6jrnrMnLBOdyBwjpDaDtC6nqlTDpoq9H62tJ39NUrBo9ird9Ih5E8dMZ5eUfIsDpY/s400/P1090769.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kids fishing in the lagoon at the town dock. A wrecked resort on the bar is in the background</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-ZWq_zgRcGiW-GqFWUmevdToJfM6nU2X8CMN3MLQk372yMmBXWnvPNcXzKIRwe17hlUhqV01hvFF97LHBTWmmyQPJJ86KH8D9BOnSMYH-6MHcrOIGbNDcMlqq5nnxHlXQPYMao7uboc/s1600/IMG_20200124_191859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-ZWq_zgRcGiW-GqFWUmevdToJfM6nU2X8CMN3MLQk372yMmBXWnvPNcXzKIRwe17hlUhqV01hvFF97LHBTWmmyQPJJ86KH8D9BOnSMYH-6MHcrOIGbNDcMlqq5nnxHlXQPYMao7uboc/s400/IMG_20200124_191859.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Timbuck One - a surprisingly first-world bar/restaurant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNm0lvL5L_JQgrHWme0KiKE7E1IFce9rf2wNha2PZEaZJ7SalAaT2n2UFz0IhxNeJOu6EQ5qGaeLJgteUYBnu24SkTY5NT5zlNwwbFPoLzOjk2NWo8CDMjTPXEMKPS9meHYn9t6d0C_-g/s1600/IMG_20200124_165911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNm0lvL5L_JQgrHWme0KiKE7E1IFce9rf2wNha2PZEaZJ7SalAaT2n2UFz0IhxNeJOu6EQ5qGaeLJgteUYBnu24SkTY5NT5zlNwwbFPoLzOjk2NWo8CDMjTPXEMKPS9meHYn9t6d0C_-g/s400/IMG_20200124_165911.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We hung out with Byron, Ester and Ivory at the Green Door</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
George Jeffrey</h3>
If you go to Barbuda, you will more than likely connect with George. One must-do if you go to Barbuda (which sadly we didn't do) is the Frigate Bird Sanctuary. It is the largest in the world and George is famous for his tours of it. Besides that, he will give you a lift from your boat into town (sparing you the risk of finding that opening yourself). George is a Barbudian through and through and really wants to preserve the way of life on the island.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdf0DPObfZD39X-afr6O4-PZkQbE77NOtskm6z9FaTui-I-EuxRe530qfDQliVnYQa9Tn8vEOvcuv4qHaFKrR9niTot9yuNpCydL8G-V0Z7-askP26FtvYkdPeDfs8VPLkFu2WaH2muHc/s1600/IMG_20200126_114912%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdf0DPObfZD39X-afr6O4-PZkQbE77NOtskm6z9FaTui-I-EuxRe530qfDQliVnYQa9Tn8vEOvcuv4qHaFKrR9niTot9yuNpCydL8G-V0Z7-askP26FtvYkdPeDfs8VPLkFu2WaH2muHc/s400/IMG_20200126_114912%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">George giving Linda a lift to town to clear out of customs on our last day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Uncle Roddy's</h3>
Roddy's is a famous stop for visitors to Barbuda. It's a great hang-out bar, amazing restaurant and offers some beautiful guest houses. Roddy's is now run by Kelcina (Roddy's Daughter) and husband Oliver and they are still in the process of rebuilding/re-establishing after Irma. We did a land tour and hike with their son Chris. Chris helps out running Roddy's and the guest houses and a general go-to guy for about anything. He's also a very cool dude and we could have hung out with him much more!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwE14YpLpLGEy8c9RumIibL0_9AhoFDdIF-z2BpA403_Xd_68zXuvbxiW6DyeEp_I1pN5XlNTH3A2mCALigIFyQtWaBCcMFiXjIdD9RGU9NGcNWwLg0XWOgvg3hbudzKDfmx-szjZuXhs/s1600/P1090772.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwE14YpLpLGEy8c9RumIibL0_9AhoFDdIF-z2BpA403_Xd_68zXuvbxiW6DyeEp_I1pN5XlNTH3A2mCALigIFyQtWaBCcMFiXjIdD9RGU9NGcNWwLg0XWOgvg3hbudzKDfmx-szjZuXhs/s400/P1090772.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Uncle Roddy's. We were there just prior to their official post-hurricane re-opening.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0zMI7GvTVZyfTDg3Ni3a-T7Aa4NFpbM3K9YdYPdUW8J5mIo-SBDZz_Hp2z9A0xO6u8gO7fWhJT-ciPiJy78WY-ZhNuajYEbjiJ8eDAcKQoZamAZGQjMe2O8xlsZOFVeu_pde5E1lxX0/s1600/P1090778.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0zMI7GvTVZyfTDg3Ni3a-T7Aa4NFpbM3K9YdYPdUW8J5mIo-SBDZz_Hp2z9A0xO6u8gO7fWhJT-ciPiJy78WY-ZhNuajYEbjiJ8eDAcKQoZamAZGQjMe2O8xlsZOFVeu_pde5E1lxX0/s400/P1090778.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris with his favorite vehicle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNedwA6U9_1HvoHXwQ1F3XKqO4XW2tc5m2gyj3fodF4NUHV9XA9V_kauv4XqmPMTVwZT-YNDfz6VGd1hmpmxkNj__cP91DihgUEY_6YW24RkyhVqte7ohBNbCRlPpuEhVGUs8Yy52Z4oo/s1600/P1090775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNedwA6U9_1HvoHXwQ1F3XKqO4XW2tc5m2gyj3fodF4NUHV9XA9V_kauv4XqmPMTVwZT-YNDfz6VGd1hmpmxkNj__cP91DihgUEY_6YW24RkyhVqte7ohBNbCRlPpuEhVGUs8Yy52Z4oo/s400/P1090775.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Guest Houses at Roddy's</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8HBvBRQvOHsJcf36x6FdVI7irQ8UG1n9y8ZbuZo6RwzYiTuca0DCgyPELCXz2e8f4eVb357_xEK7zDxu-EpPa34h8DbBzIljXusdu-KY8kmsULTvuZylayKEI_NM1XSVOPyJJKOCLL6s/s1600/P1090756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8HBvBRQvOHsJcf36x6FdVI7irQ8UG1n9y8ZbuZo6RwzYiTuca0DCgyPELCXz2e8f4eVb357_xEK7zDxu-EpPa34h8DbBzIljXusdu-KY8kmsULTvuZylayKEI_NM1XSVOPyJJKOCLL6s/s400/P1090756.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruins of Codrington's estate in the highlands (125' elevation)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTiDlVrNW7QAOLV6-LKVMT1ptNGRDHNykig6lg5GHdewPobR2RpYdNiZOgwCSm4_Ik4XnFvgldyk3R9u7rPMOhQJJrn52umiz8U6Gt8hNAqlUbEeMhx5YtMKszXFTeN-o6FHlHVFrO4lA/s1600/P1090760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTiDlVrNW7QAOLV6-LKVMT1ptNGRDHNykig6lg5GHdewPobR2RpYdNiZOgwCSm4_Ik4XnFvgldyk3R9u7rPMOhQJJrn52umiz8U6Gt8hNAqlUbEeMhx5YtMKszXFTeN-o6FHlHVFrO4lA/s400/P1090760.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sinkhole - a dramatic 80' deep hole. Now with trees growing up to the rim</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHELKWgLA5GYTRwP6-spFoD_JgxBlnhxZQ_gf0vQrdKVrQgS-8r7p2hBZQHi5Mv0j9r5rjIeEaEzf0HHZjFE99pv2wvhaeWv0Evg42kmmTKTMCU7DNUH_KkZU9wIixypkv4rlDgbyRrTQ/s1600/P1090780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHELKWgLA5GYTRwP6-spFoD_JgxBlnhxZQ_gf0vQrdKVrQgS-8r7p2hBZQHi5Mv0j9r5rjIeEaEzf0HHZjFE99pv2wvhaeWv0Evg42kmmTKTMCU7DNUH_KkZU9wIixypkv4rlDgbyRrTQ/s400/P1090780.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda posing with Chris the tour guide</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Besides a little bit of tourism, a primary source of revenue for Barbuda is selling sand. Love those pictures of white sandy beaches in the US Virgin Islands? Much of that sand comes from Barbuda! There was a sand barge being loaded while we were there. Selling sand is not sustainable and they know it. But for now, it's a primary source of badly needed revenue.<br />
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<h3>
Flatland</h3>
Barbuda is very flat. The area known as "The Highlands" has a lofty elevation of 125 feet above sea level. This is where Codrington built his estate.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01OUcWq8G57r0xXg38QtI6Pwq-xkFkR-5jjNeYCu6-mnvbdqnN4nbeu_FOG2WG1uW_6ZDcPQAYu20suKPn_7Q7nGvZIM0mhUjJnm3wl5UHSTc_uXnwOopO4qSdzhQcyGxxhgFYiIz_zU/s1600/P1090768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01OUcWq8G57r0xXg38QtI6Pwq-xkFkR-5jjNeYCu6-mnvbdqnN4nbeu_FOG2WG1uW_6ZDcPQAYu20suKPn_7Q7nGvZIM0mhUjJnm3wl5UHSTc_uXnwOopO4qSdzhQcyGxxhgFYiIz_zU/s400/P1090768.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taken from the highlands zoomed in. That mast is Argon on the other side of the bar about four miles away. No other boats in sight. You can see the waves breaking over the breach to the right</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Irma Aftermath</h3>
When Irma hit, all of the 1700 residents evacuated and moved to Antigua but since then, most have returned. The devastation was incredible. Apart from the natural damage to the lagoon bar and many palm trees, the town of Codrington was clobbered. Many people are still living in disaster relief tents outside of their former homes. There is a single diesel power generator which supplies the whole island, but some folks who choose to live outside of Codrington, are still without power.<br />
<br />
Various aid organizations have been helping and you can see tarps and tents with various logos from these organizations. One strange thing we noticed was that many wrecked houses had brand new windows. It seems that someone must have donated a lot of windows.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7Xax9zhbjoLNAEgjCTVKnk9ce7kTHuhto1IUCdjHmdSLWD-pcu3yk0ex4tHhKZQ1MhngIZWF_0keMQ9T8sS6_jRW0IZO01l08XNAmmWHyD4DSSMH3hjSTdK-HlY9BVUt2PEUuAl-hwA/s1600/P1090782.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7Xax9zhbjoLNAEgjCTVKnk9ce7kTHuhto1IUCdjHmdSLWD-pcu3yk0ex4tHhKZQ1MhngIZWF_0keMQ9T8sS6_jRW0IZO01l08XNAmmWHyD4DSSMH3hjSTdK-HlY9BVUt2PEUuAl-hwA/s400/P1090782.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A church with the roof still gone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisyKB3QjpMF2rq8rJQs1KRoqhfKhVemYAJRBfKAMkfgh2ad5chJ53q4b9p8ZfuDSV1kizBp53-lVVEGziKyz5j3cx_t0eYcDvh0bgi4-Az-0vTpjlzCyoaY_GQsfZ567w1Vs28FOsufCc/s1600/P1090794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisyKB3QjpMF2rq8rJQs1KRoqhfKhVemYAJRBfKAMkfgh2ad5chJ53q4b9p8ZfuDSV1kizBp53-lVVEGziKyz5j3cx_t0eYcDvh0bgi4-Az-0vTpjlzCyoaY_GQsfZ567w1Vs28FOsufCc/s400/P1090794.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">House with no roof but new windows</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYoUVeLs8DHfnTmTKZVPBO_SweuigTLL7d5Ln2JaZMM4XFKIosrMm2Dn0lD0fKOtrve74KuQpY_kuR3JWoeQv9mlMbQJwUiMF-48o0bkA_qvN8FpyJ2XuZDBtAyuoCc_LUs57rhm-3AIE/s1600/P1090800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYoUVeLs8DHfnTmTKZVPBO_SweuigTLL7d5Ln2JaZMM4XFKIosrMm2Dn0lD0fKOtrve74KuQpY_kuR3JWoeQv9mlMbQJwUiMF-48o0bkA_qvN8FpyJ2XuZDBtAyuoCc_LUs57rhm-3AIE/s400/P1090800.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still some folks in disaster relief tents. There is no insurance here.Those who can't afford to rebuild, have no choice.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stop sign bent by the force of Irma</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another one of the many houses with no roof</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Has potential</td></tr>
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Swells eased at the end of our five day stay and we enjoyed still water on our final day.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoyable meet up on our last evening with friends John and Victoria from s/v Jovini</td></tr>
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<h3>
Moving on</h3>
Another slight complication. Apart from Antigua, any place you might want to go next is too far to sail to if one leaves when the sun is high (recommended for navigating the shallows and corals) and arrive at the new destination before dark. <br />
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Our solution was to choose a path out of the anchorage that got into good water as soon as possible and preview that path during the day in the dinghy while looking for coral heads. This would give us some confidence to leave in the dark early the next morning. The Navionics charts had two suggested courses out of Low Bay, but we noticed that the location of some reefs was drawn a little more to the south in the NV charts. We decided to err on the side of the more southern course and run that down with the dinghy in the light. We didn't see any sort of hazard at all along this track. A few times, we stopped and dropped our anchor over to sanity check the depths too.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Track recorded from the dinghy the day before departing so we could safety leave in the dark the next morning</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Motoring out at 05:00 very slowly following the dinghy track we recorded the previous day.</td></tr>
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After considering several options: St Kitts, St Eustatia, St Maarten, we decided to make the next destination St Maarten. Winds were still a little light the day we left so we ultimately shortened our passage by making a sleep-over stop in St Barts. We proceeded to St Maarten the next morning.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easy but long downwind sail with St Barts up ahead</td></tr>
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0Barbuda, Antigua and Barbuda17.6266242 -61.771302817.3845067 -62.0940263 17.868741699999998 -61.4485793tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-40578594475057179732020-02-04T08:20:00.000-05:002020-02-05T06:38:02.071-05:00Antigua AgainPerhaps because we have spent more time on this island than anywhere else in the Caribbean (4+ months over 3 trips), or maybe it is the genuine friendly nature of people, or the vibrant sailing culture, or the beautiful land and harbors... Antigua feels like home in the Caribbean. <br />
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Captain Linda Perry Riera
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Once a British colony, Antigua has been independent for 40 years but maintains close ties with the UK. Many British have relocated to Antigua or have vacation homes here. Almost half of its population of 80,000 lives in the capital area of St. John on the northwest side of the island. The topography is an interesting mix of modest mountainous rain forest, low brushy hills, dramatic rocky coast, and inviting sandy beaches. Most of our time is spent in the nautical southern quadrant in English and Falmouth Harbors although we expanded our horizons this trip a bit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIGu3cqyNeIhHwGnE86DJsKU-EqRCvU1kTOMw74UCBGRZuqKw5rL0RLzHQ-0YVk-YCAPNHBqM2-fzzM3v5_v_klWxdOr4L7ynFS1APXszbvr6CS5v0Fbbsy_st3sHSYuN7L3WJUfpRDBM/s1600/Screenshot_20200105-145204%257E2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="468" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIGu3cqyNeIhHwGnE86DJsKU-EqRCvU1kTOMw74UCBGRZuqKw5rL0RLzHQ-0YVk-YCAPNHBqM2-fzzM3v5_v_klWxdOr4L7ynFS1APXszbvr6CS5v0Fbbsy_st3sHSYuN7L3WJUfpRDBM/s400/Screenshot_20200105-145204%257E2.png" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sailing high in to the easterlies for a 50nm sail from Dehaise, Guadeloupe to the eastern coast of Antigua, Nonsuch Bay back in mid January .</td></tr>
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<h3>
Old Favorites</h3>
Antigua was our first Caribbean landing on Argon back in <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2016/12/antigua.html">November 2016 after a 6 day passage from Bermuda</a>. Our newness to extended cruising and naivete regarding Caribbean sailing likely caused a steady drip of adrenaline in my body at that time and contributes to vibrant recollections. <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/11/a-slow-boat-to-antigua.html">The second off shore passage to Antigua</a> two years later was a forced extended stay due to <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/02/argon-rig-repair.html">significant rig repairs needed</a>. Even though our attention during this 7 weeks was often centered on managing repairs, we were appreciative for being stranded at this island as Antigua was already a favorite.<br />
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Now, with quite a few nautical miles in the log book, arriving in Antigua <i>Take 3</i> is familiar and comfortable. It was wonderful to tuck in to English and Falmouth Harbors for a couple of weeks, meet up with familiar faces, enjoy the deep history and <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2020/01/boat-projects-in-paradise.html">tackle several boat projects</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Happy Place = Anchored in Freeman Bay, English Harbor. Great cove for my morning swims too.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Med moored at Nelson's Dockyard for about a week among mostly more grand vessels. Construction of the dockyard began in the mid 1700's and is maintained impeccably as a cultural heritage site. It is a fascinating place to experience and explore. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon secured at Nelson's Dockyard just before the winds kicked up. The anchor is out to secure us med-mooring style with another long strong line to an underwater mooring chain secured by the dockyard divers. The winds were 20-30kt for several days but we held securely.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few of the impressive sailboats docked at Nelson's.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdtPfJIJVGVXNdkeKHApUlw8icLxdYum8i570XPyUGvICke7E-KfGQCJGbAEbzUKvd1KCSI1b4GFgHtbi7cchsV0InIOETcnil_u6boPev1luhu27QEcE07AYoYs_Qdb6a8t-i240uPA/s1600/P1090417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdtPfJIJVGVXNdkeKHApUlw8icLxdYum8i570XPyUGvICke7E-KfGQCJGbAEbzUKvd1KCSI1b4GFgHtbi7cchsV0InIOETcnil_u6boPev1luhu27QEcE07AYoYs_Qdb6a8t-i240uPA/s400/P1090417.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copper and Lumber, a hotel and restaurant at Nelson's Dockyard, was built in 1789 originally to store materials for building and repairing ships. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmVy5-7qVj0e4wp6O5g-3uHcqRtccVxKDojRqYQOc7QdqBRC8pbnW2mKeQQ63tAY6PpStrWOnErr7_i7SFmjAD1aCJrWJofFz_2Fzojk20ZI6AANkbXVGnpKGuLClf387_SkLwy5-tdE/s1600/IMG_20200116_103547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmVy5-7qVj0e4wp6O5g-3uHcqRtccVxKDojRqYQOc7QdqBRC8pbnW2mKeQQ63tAY6PpStrWOnErr7_i7SFmjAD1aCJrWJofFz_2Fzojk20ZI6AANkbXVGnpKGuLClf387_SkLwy5-tdE/s400/IMG_20200116_103547.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sherwin and Q: Dock Masters and all around great guys at Nelson's.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvgUe0coJYjPfYpPLmtnpYOPTK72u87I6uwDCWnc-sMBVO63VcHTyECL8SSCBgghVopxoS5wya89nqDHptBZVNz2Z3KEqZyFotBGgMuDRZYI0wwtWht23jT8CMDlJmBU4GG4w6_ddPOiA/s1600/IMG_20200120_110500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvgUe0coJYjPfYpPLmtnpYOPTK72u87I6uwDCWnc-sMBVO63VcHTyECL8SSCBgghVopxoS5wya89nqDHptBZVNz2Z3KEqZyFotBGgMuDRZYI0wwtWht23jT8CMDlJmBU4GG4w6_ddPOiA/s400/IMG_20200120_110500.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meena from the Dockyard Bakery. My favorite is the curry vegetable pies.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2UZ9FTlhTCDTV0m8rd4AYHUpZG4sWxuIYH8_Dz3VrSWs9jdeS0vj_MtXz5_QiFHDwoZsEKfnkKlR1Op-n8j3KdLVSFr3Mb1xK-206Jfw7OMFq_q8SXtoEB547JXSTr6a-YmJ1CKDoEU4/s1600/IMG_20200120_104823.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2UZ9FTlhTCDTV0m8rd4AYHUpZG4sWxuIYH8_Dz3VrSWs9jdeS0vj_MtXz5_QiFHDwoZsEKfnkKlR1Op-n8j3KdLVSFr3Mb1xK-206Jfw7OMFq_q8SXtoEB547JXSTr6a-YmJ1CKDoEU4/s400/IMG_20200120_104823.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Off the main strip in Falmouth, Caribbean Taste offers up great local food at good prices on a front porch.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWiK9WOPguqx5nSGOswBmxxepr5v4LbFi0GZ5t7Fdeh57KoshHJMv0iumb5ys3u-ZNNoRdL67S3aeXhIgB3_Qx2TzbpKVgO3utv7HkGjDhR7xwg8l9a1Ka9j-a2q9yCUGgN72dKFDN4Ts/s1600/IMG_20200117_123031%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWiK9WOPguqx5nSGOswBmxxepr5v4LbFi0GZ5t7Fdeh57KoshHJMv0iumb5ys3u-ZNNoRdL67S3aeXhIgB3_Qx2TzbpKVgO3utv7HkGjDhR7xwg8l9a1Ka9j-a2q9yCUGgN72dKFDN4Ts/s400/IMG_20200117_123031%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chillin' for an afternoon while anchored in Carlisle Bay (Jon and Nicole).</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicuDTNDra-L4opY5Eyl2wIQjbawV-oHuba95RIE3rz9oqz_WZO5vOg6Um3WaVgmcg8iw4w6MF-UhPUuMC1E2dRn_RD77z8lMB5z9g04OozJyZa4sy7ziRKOCQMzRWT-vfnCTtj_0AZpgE/s1600/P1090659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicuDTNDra-L4opY5Eyl2wIQjbawV-oHuba95RIE3rz9oqz_WZO5vOg6Um3WaVgmcg8iw4w6MF-UhPUuMC1E2dRn_RD77z8lMB5z9g04OozJyZa4sy7ziRKOCQMzRWT-vfnCTtj_0AZpgE/s400/P1090659.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset while at anchor at Five Island Bay. The serene setting was interrupted by a morning anchor dragging incident.</td></tr>
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<h3>
New Harbors and Experiences</h3>
Despite the generous amount of time in Antigua in the past, and our comfort hanging out mostly on the southern coast, there were regions yet to explore. The eastern reef-enclosed Nonsuch Bay was high on my mind to visit. When winds and surf are up, the entrance to Nonsuch can be dangerous or impossible to transit, but the conditions and our schedules were ideal for a short stay. Some land excursions and anchoring in Deep Harbor just south of St. John were interesting new areas to explore.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPPl2uXJLpuTiqN5zja0i6PdFrF1YU1Ux2LOtxhDEonJdN3rTouzVhQ85U20j8v8dlBxVWDhwGgOhs35m79YHsM0ZtG1keHbSr41iGoCSpvZyX2wdTmFy1yDCWBXT8VNVTv5grjOlaST8/s1600/P1090363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPPl2uXJLpuTiqN5zja0i6PdFrF1YU1Ux2LOtxhDEonJdN3rTouzVhQ85U20j8v8dlBxVWDhwGgOhs35m79YHsM0ZtG1keHbSr41iGoCSpvZyX2wdTmFy1yDCWBXT8VNVTv5grjOlaST8/s400/P1090363.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying coffee at sunrise as storm clouds approach anchored behind the reefs at Nonsuch Bay on the east coast.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDvktG4b3yumfGK8P6ATfZQ5Ae4qfNTFZisK_MgOSo8wKwEZaUTXYOuzPodIeNKlM6zAwgh_k1mJCzsPm1xQDR19hFgQ4t_z0hw8AwsGgBvsQ8K1owrAN48_3i3sFOnJbNIQH3mXDE0o/s1600/IMG_20200119_134647.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDvktG4b3yumfGK8P6ATfZQ5Ae4qfNTFZisK_MgOSo8wKwEZaUTXYOuzPodIeNKlM6zAwgh_k1mJCzsPm1xQDR19hFgQ4t_z0hw8AwsGgBvsQ8K1owrAN48_3i3sFOnJbNIQH3mXDE0o/s400/IMG_20200119_134647.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dramatic Devil's Bridge on the east coast.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6F8XCbEdSAYInOf0OFhBj6o1onZDNThYCOFKGWNUbzmdrKNJ1-DcJfakOfwJTyvdvLHpsDNIXcMN1UG_sj4PxfLYgZUjm5Mgx3ij7piUmVUXjIBThHXnTh3AZl9CHob1uwI38E8hKcEI/s1600/IMG_20200115_121545.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6F8XCbEdSAYInOf0OFhBj6o1onZDNThYCOFKGWNUbzmdrKNJ1-DcJfakOfwJTyvdvLHpsDNIXcMN1UG_sj4PxfLYgZUjm5Mgx3ij7piUmVUXjIBThHXnTh3AZl9CHob1uwI38E8hKcEI/s400/IMG_20200115_121545.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hike to the secluded Windward Bay Beach on the south coast.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiulDoam89xgXP3K_AgS9Ws9cH8cIGoMLYoM6kJKSjPXEcvDRuQ6PppD-jn4Dq6YpskZ7V-GkUTxn8yK2Un2mmwIdeDUw6Jtg5RoUImJB0BajxSzvqw7afJ17TW92bysrZQJbCuzhCNXqU/s1600/00000IMG_00000_BURST20200121174851974_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiulDoam89xgXP3K_AgS9Ws9cH8cIGoMLYoM6kJKSjPXEcvDRuQ6PppD-jn4Dq6YpskZ7V-GkUTxn8yK2Un2mmwIdeDUw6Jtg5RoUImJB0BajxSzvqw7afJ17TW92bysrZQJbCuzhCNXqU/s400/00000IMG_00000_BURST20200121174851974_COVER.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hike up the hill overlooking Argon anchored in Deep Bay Harbor on the west coast.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycfVzFXWcnFJTqF2b1BDKXoVd9thgueqHdJPOPQrNW8MgAZ6igYBGtTPr7jwfF0_TnDVMcF_0qF4b7BT9RxEfdNDnFFGSt53-Fjfb7glFwaAbE12b-ptLNsUYtg8JtuAAFJAC4FJTYHw/s1600/IMG_20200121_174242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycfVzFXWcnFJTqF2b1BDKXoVd9thgueqHdJPOPQrNW8MgAZ6igYBGtTPr7jwfF0_TnDVMcF_0qF4b7BT9RxEfdNDnFFGSt53-Fjfb7glFwaAbE12b-ptLNsUYtg8JtuAAFJAC4FJTYHw/s400/IMG_20200121_174242.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep Bay Harbor - One would never know that the crowded city of St. John was just a couple miles away.</td></tr>
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The <a href="https://www.taliskerwhiskyatlanticchallenge.com/">Atlantic Challenge</a> is a yearly extreme ocean rowing event with a few dozen $100K specialized row boats. Teams of 4, 3, 2 and even solo row 3000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean from the Canary Islands to Antigua taking 30-40+ days to complete. We were fortunate to have been docked right next to the finish line to welcome in the first couple of teams and participate in the festivities. Argon then took a seat back out at anchor to watch others from our transom arrive later in the week. Impressive athletes indeed!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifk8DXBDXzAsiTPI2seBGLXmMRpMe1btF6CFHiSMf89Ild0_i2p12lvoNHUXKMfA88AZ4vrTWmeJwKUFUZUqDjP6XVNpNHj_WmjyBt6lzpuwNvOIC106CQwRjDcRWe7HCA9VE71vsOl40/s1600/P1090600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifk8DXBDXzAsiTPI2seBGLXmMRpMe1btF6CFHiSMf89Ild0_i2p12lvoNHUXKMfA88AZ4vrTWmeJwKUFUZUqDjP6XVNpNHj_WmjyBt6lzpuwNvOIC106CQwRjDcRWe7HCA9VE71vsOl40/s400/P1090600.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The third place rowers approach the finish line in style in English Harbor, complete with flares and bagpipes. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5-9qXTcy-WeETcYsbEPZFwhkJDjfaEwewx1C5cqi3iNldTpb4bJKa5Qqz9SfkeVzWYttK_Met2-giIOHytMGqn125ntU_mSglKwAuBAjPM9N-hIGXykyOGf_ZThV0YF9tTxqOdRRXHdU/s1600/P1090574.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5-9qXTcy-WeETcYsbEPZFwhkJDjfaEwewx1C5cqi3iNldTpb4bJKa5Qqz9SfkeVzWYttK_Met2-giIOHytMGqn125ntU_mSglKwAuBAjPM9N-hIGXykyOGf_ZThV0YF9tTxqOdRRXHdU/s400/P1090574.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not your daddy's row boat.</td></tr>
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
More Visits from Kids</h3>
Jonny and Nicole escaped the cold upstate New York weather to join us for a week spending time on land and aboard Argon.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSdf7QOuSmz_jBN9ttv_yao7ks0LiGOB47s78yXC-Ea1K04tEHE0DIekvaZfKt2F0czTa4NKmbMO9ripI0xRMooMMDWV56WwMqLQmzDp04YxAtXnw8Rrzj76ZF4n9AxODXvaKbjxr5t_s/s1600/P1090460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSdf7QOuSmz_jBN9ttv_yao7ks0LiGOB47s78yXC-Ea1K04tEHE0DIekvaZfKt2F0czTa4NKmbMO9ripI0xRMooMMDWV56WwMqLQmzDp04YxAtXnw8Rrzj76ZF4n9AxODXvaKbjxr5t_s/s400/P1090460.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jon and Nicole.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvUxkXD_XVB_3KYagB7Up0ETe9elYiQN5j7wTa9QqAuMN5IOB1HzKfDq5kP4VFJ6-iOY8jXGflrCSV6TSn46YG3D0saj-i2sT02QyaNoY7n9gqZQUKTLdpYtmijAygIs3OSCkNCBd6OlM/s1600/IMG_20200117_100107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvUxkXD_XVB_3KYagB7Up0ETe9elYiQN5j7wTa9QqAuMN5IOB1HzKfDq5kP4VFJ6-iOY8jXGflrCSV6TSn46YG3D0saj-i2sT02QyaNoY7n9gqZQUKTLdpYtmijAygIs3OSCkNCBd6OlM/s400/IMG_20200117_100107.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready to hang out on board for the afternoon at anchor.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NgvVjFJNv5LIEQgMDPiay6jHnQ5VZK9RA5DxXZ8K5gcBQXl6MgTo6cUhQa9JHvHfk_p6E8L2eNwBpLHtonlFc9tIpUvlF2_gsb_ujLxlTRS0WajVUCA78joAEBUz0POlrxZjVejEBa8/s1600/20200118_194358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NgvVjFJNv5LIEQgMDPiay6jHnQ5VZK9RA5DxXZ8K5gcBQXl6MgTo6cUhQa9JHvHfk_p6E8L2eNwBpLHtonlFc9tIpUvlF2_gsb_ujLxlTRS0WajVUCA78joAEBUz0POlrxZjVejEBa8/s400/20200118_194358.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found this cool new restaurant in Falmouth specializing in gins and brisket: S*itting Monkey.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIlEmCqA5umAHXwrFnu4CNcX7PMDbCIbnRbGcoDEIQPDdNANCpgM61gQXEmpWhOJqn5VOeMPsEdjRi0kCPXfloZVphKQC6UyKZ1qJ5Uuz0EEbnFFRDUM1TtoTWG4s_vlcI2G9jSCE-vuk/s1600/IMG_20200113_172910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIlEmCqA5umAHXwrFnu4CNcX7PMDbCIbnRbGcoDEIQPDdNANCpgM61gQXEmpWhOJqn5VOeMPsEdjRi0kCPXfloZVphKQC6UyKZ1qJ5Uuz0EEbnFFRDUM1TtoTWG4s_vlcI2G9jSCE-vuk/s400/IMG_20200113_172910.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiking the Goat Trail transiting the southern coast from English Harbor to Falmouth.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHSaPOvojtUGKhT_QpbaMi_ajqIi6VN-cRgTwcCC0uHidlSJQeJuo68J6FmfuKtnNJsgGYIg0Qe0Ru5kO3Dm67J6CiW-quROsHnkSpZaffVu6OYP8B3-VjhrogSy9IONV1sEFNONI27c/s1600/P1090463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHSaPOvojtUGKhT_QpbaMi_ajqIi6VN-cRgTwcCC0uHidlSJQeJuo68J6FmfuKtnNJsgGYIg0Qe0Ru5kO3Dm67J6CiW-quROsHnkSpZaffVu6OYP8B3-VjhrogSy9IONV1sEFNONI27c/s400/P1090463.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of goats on The Goat Trail.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0EQgSl6nVhXmh0EQhL9mwKnRHVZG6Wcl1mD2TcG7GG3uUpMKK1z5Q9Whk-6jDhhNJ5-P6h4S3nNJOYVP2OBKQrPnKbehPCiHz1h1MPPm9JRXkHrpwczlmmlvEPqwiOVJaBMaW8YpwOzQ/s1600/IMG_20200112_164843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0EQgSl6nVhXmh0EQhL9mwKnRHVZG6Wcl1mD2TcG7GG3uUpMKK1z5Q9Whk-6jDhhNJ5-P6h4S3nNJOYVP2OBKQrPnKbehPCiHz1h1MPPm9JRXkHrpwczlmmlvEPqwiOVJaBMaW8YpwOzQ/s400/IMG_20200112_164843.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jon and Nicole atop the popular Shirley Heights for the steel drum band and bbq. Argon is anchored in English Harbor below.</td></tr>
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<h3>
What About Barbuda?...</h3>
Antigua is actually the country of <i>Antigua and Barbuda.</i> These two islands comprise the same country, however, Barbuda works hard to function independently and maintain its autonomy and unique culture. Sailing to Barbuda did not fit in to our itinerary during past trips, but thankfully it did this time. More on Barbuda on the next post!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiONcxTw215aU0ND_aO0O1624OoJD92_oBjtSAHfHmM4sZygnHRdLL-cMNU5Ep9msv5vMAexB28FwqXpZYxCFsHjv48ZhDAtaXBrRw085P0aLV6MRJeZLZqiLlNELerDh1QOVkuXJJ_A/s1600/IMG_20200122_111043%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiONcxTw215aU0ND_aO0O1624OoJD92_oBjtSAHfHmM4sZygnHRdLL-cMNU5Ep9msv5vMAexB28FwqXpZYxCFsHjv48ZhDAtaXBrRw085P0aLV6MRJeZLZqiLlNELerDh1QOVkuXJJ_A/s400/IMG_20200122_111043%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Navigating coral heads approaching the very low, flat island of Barbuda. More to come on Barbuda with the next post.</td></tr>
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-70380279013953007662020-01-29T16:03:00.000-05:002020-01-30T08:36:11.695-05:00Boat Projects in ParadiseLiving on a boat, especially in the Caribbean, can be heavenly. Every day I am grateful for this lifestyle. There is, however, far less lounging on the beach with a mojito than one may assume. The adventure and relaxing segments are necessarily heavily intermingled with constant attention to the inner and outer workings of the vessel to keep her looking spiffy, functioning well, and sailing safely.<br />
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<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
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Quite a few <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/week-one-third-half-grenada.html">boat projects were tackled back in November</a> in the immediate weeks after Argon was launched in Grenada. Most days since then include at least a sprinkling of boat chores or logistics. Some days are consumed by projects. Here is a sampling of fairly routine boat maintenance and repairs we have tackled recently during a couple of weeks in Antigua - often at anchor, sometimes tied up at Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbor.<br />
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<h3>
Electrical: Solar Panel Performance</h3>
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We have four flexible panels mounted on the bimini and dodger with a total <i>rated</i> capacity of 385 watts. We should be able to depend on around 100AH (Amp-Hours) of energy from these on a typical Caribbean sunny day but the generated energy has been somewhat sub par. Step one was to clean all of the connectors and terminals between the panels and the controllers with alcohol. The good news is that our primary panel (the 135w on the bimini) is now doing great, as is the port side 100w panel. The not so good news is that we're still getting a little less energy than we should and it's clearly because the starboard side 100w panel is just not performing. We've cleaned everything we can on that panel and we sadly conclude that the panel is failing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDxqfUVWrXQKqj2HiyuEU7ldSLGylngvdQIBwvsANudscL9SQ4OhhUrO7iwtOW7aC6FjA_Xfz6incDHqwYG7wCwlklXdy0yUCPEWTjpX2HwhipzIxUWCdipEIYGdrzO7l7wVA_xG4uuc/s1600/20180415_170150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1075" data-original-width="1433" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDxqfUVWrXQKqj2HiyuEU7ldSLGylngvdQIBwvsANudscL9SQ4OhhUrO7iwtOW7aC6FjA_Xfz6incDHqwYG7wCwlklXdy0yUCPEWTjpX2HwhipzIxUWCdipEIYGdrzO7l7wVA_xG4uuc/s400/20180415_170150.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All of the connectors for the solar panels were cleaned with alcohol.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bDRy558AqJKG7cIK9fmbXRRTsA5uiT_KRPSXGOwWKxRZPkLLm4BTN-I5__tfS9J2FrXCyTHsMIMKKlZskS2WBkoW68G-EcVHZEeI6RXPwmXAzBfMn69DHTYGlfCcS8eGDZYI6qd-UfA/s1600/2020-01-29_14-53-11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="883" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bDRy558AqJKG7cIK9fmbXRRTsA5uiT_KRPSXGOwWKxRZPkLLm4BTN-I5__tfS9J2FrXCyTHsMIMKKlZskS2WBkoW68G-EcVHZEeI6RXPwmXAzBfMn69DHTYGlfCcS8eGDZYI6qd-UfA/s400/2020-01-29_14-53-11.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amperage readings in collected over the course of a day showing peak of about 17 amps midday - less than what it should be if all solar panels were functioning well.</td></tr>
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Being the nerds we are, we plotted the net income of Amps from the panels for each daylight hour (over several days). If that starboard panel was performing, the peak would be well over 20A. Seventeen is the highest we record. The main power consumers are the fridge and our work laptops. The fridge is probably using about 60-70 A-H per day (depending on how many ice cubes we can have in our drinks). Our work laptops have 130w power bricks and they need to be plugged in quite a few hours a day. The end result is unless we can get ashore for powering the laptops part of the day, more is going out than is coming in and we still need to run the engine periodically to make up the deficit.<br />
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<h3>
Electrical: New Windlass Switches (again!)</h3>
When at anchor in Maine, USA a few years ago, we learned that the up and down switches for the windlass are woefully unreliable when our windlass suddenly started paying out chain - potentially very dangerous. Now, as a precaution, we now always keep the breaker for the windlass off except when preparing to set or weigh anchor. And, despite replacing the switches with better quality ones, they continue to eventually start to fail after some time. It's not surprising really considering the location way up front on the bow where they are regularly being blasted by salt water waves while sailing. While in Antigua recently, Bob replaced the pair yet again (and purchased another set of spares for when <i>these</i> fail).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis04yF1JanKnRdFnnZOwnudLd0R1FB634YjygGUm4X4wq5Yv6xpGsfBQZBQhpN5u7sceqjKe5eS5uI-zYxrn428C_5eUb92mgkNujRRBuVwjmVU0atZ4g0Wj29sUa-3FSDSOjYVq8TDpA/s1600/IMG_20200109_155950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis04yF1JanKnRdFnnZOwnudLd0R1FB634YjygGUm4X4wq5Yv6xpGsfBQZBQhpN5u7sceqjKe5eS5uI-zYxrn428C_5eUb92mgkNujRRBuVwjmVU0atZ4g0Wj29sUa-3FSDSOjYVq8TDpA/s400/IMG_20200109_155950.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crouching in the bow locker replacing the windlass switches (again).</td></tr>
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<h3>
IT Support: Flaky WiFi Router</h3>
Starting around Martinique, we noticed that our trusty Bullet Wifi Router was starting to not work reliably (even when we could find some wifi to hijack). Bob was down in to a locker again (this time the transom locker) to get access to the
network connection to the Bullet. He put a PoE (Power Over Ethernet)
tester inline to see if the Bullet was getting power. It was. And...
it was also working now.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirx2QYuTNeXLOiwhl6TKe1DSmLusXUcmCU6FmeagXggutzuxSCkriMXG3g9k_kim3EyD5u-twWbbYxlH9d7qY_ilMMSqJ2dZTnczhs-2el0kRGHi8R2xwrU_xBmJAIThvpDthGU0xuzRc/s1600/IMG_20191229_154157.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirx2QYuTNeXLOiwhl6TKe1DSmLusXUcmCU6FmeagXggutzuxSCkriMXG3g9k_kim3EyD5u-twWbbYxlH9d7qY_ilMMSqJ2dZTnczhs-2el0kRGHi8R2xwrU_xBmJAIThvpDthGU0xuzRc/s400/IMG_20191229_154157.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob squeezing in to the transom locker to access the wifi network cabling.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2n9LCK2TSZ_X-664Tpv8zOtqpqI6cNJBLJLXmPoq4eUMzBPyf66WdEmm8M_qAUc_wthyADsyswDLSpT0FhpBSwkld_eIQvaSDwxeepnGTIQZj9PB7-_UGteP4InnLRGEa1dYtUdijFLI/s1600/20191229_143959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2n9LCK2TSZ_X-664Tpv8zOtqpqI6cNJBLJLXmPoq4eUMzBPyf66WdEmm8M_qAUc_wthyADsyswDLSpT0FhpBSwkld_eIQvaSDwxeepnGTIQZj9PB7-_UGteP4InnLRGEa1dYtUdijFLI/s400/20191229_143959.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The PoE tester inline with the Bullet. Plenty of power going through.</td></tr>
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<u>The diagnosis</u>: Just interrupting and reconnecting the bullet "fixed" it - meaning we have a flaky connection. Bob cleaned the connectors with alcohol and it's been fine... until today. As we edit this blog and get ready to upload, the Bullet is wigging out again. It may be time to just cut the wires and re-crimp new connectors. In the meantime, we will clean the connectors again and cross our fingers. Mobile data has been our front line strategy for connectivity anyway as it has been rare that we can use the Bullet to slurp up some free wifi.<br />
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<h3>
Cleaning: Polishing and Waxing</h3>
The continual salt and intense sun are formidable opponents to a clean and well functioning boat. Salt spray while sailing gets everywhere and given our need to conserve water, we welcome the occasional heavy downpour for a good rinsing. In addition, it is necessary to rid the surfaces of salt before tackling the polishing and waxing. <br />
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Quite a bit time is spent addressing rust spots on the stainless steel and keeping it shiny with extra attention needed in small crevices, around screws, at the base of stanchions and inside turnbuckles. As with waxing the gelcoat in the cockpit and on deck, this is normally done in the morning and late afternoon hours to avoid the intense heat of midday.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixb1evxXjfXKVIc8EpO3etcsYRpbTgBVkohQai_J-s6wZPSPmdRSkyLCLrvLqCH-gGElqDf6_3n-6X8XMEItB3HibW4cn0LmBhACw7U-5C7rB0QE6Q4TH_jgMJkE7QEb989KvUFZ3C4u0/s1600/P1090377.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixb1evxXjfXKVIc8EpO3etcsYRpbTgBVkohQai_J-s6wZPSPmdRSkyLCLrvLqCH-gGElqDf6_3n-6X8XMEItB3HibW4cn0LmBhACw7U-5C7rB0QE6Q4TH_jgMJkE7QEb989KvUFZ3C4u0/s400/P1090377.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This
pic is taken shortly after a welcome rainstorm. We sometimes get out on
the deck with sponges during heavy rain to clean off the baked on salt. The cool freshwater rinse of our sweaty bodies is a bonus.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiOzpbGEnPikhXJG1mKTiQxkw4LQgJFsbeZyP_iS5PTm5_dN104HbQF7kVCW8ZJKwgXOBq5qE3LXn2JzCs25QDXTkgOBSxfToacyeqqK0pHEEEAHT-HZzLMepQQ1qU4iq6wF37j47nEdE/s1600/00100lrPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20200109103611597_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiOzpbGEnPikhXJG1mKTiQxkw4LQgJFsbeZyP_iS5PTm5_dN104HbQF7kVCW8ZJKwgXOBq5qE3LXn2JzCs25QDXTkgOBSxfToacyeqqK0pHEEEAHT-HZzLMepQQ1qU4iq6wF37j47nEdE/s400/00100lrPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20200109103611597_COVER.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleaning off the extra stubborn rust spots and polishing the bow roller.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1SwK9WlGecssXECnxcogKVB7acsN5LnVoNVcaS5v0lXnAXkSKrX1eXgaqzXcVSYcrlO-3lo71zGEVzVBpchS3QLTFpY2ZN6D0Kozqf1HJdlK7jOJLZgo1DlZXj7BGTD1uQT8hkLQgt8/s1600/IMG_20200109_103547%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1SwK9WlGecssXECnxcogKVB7acsN5LnVoNVcaS5v0lXnAXkSKrX1eXgaqzXcVSYcrlO-3lo71zGEVzVBpchS3QLTFpY2ZN6D0Kozqf1HJdlK7jOJLZgo1DlZXj7BGTD1uQT8hkLQgt8/s400/IMG_20200109_103547%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shiny bow roller. (I wish I took a <i>before </i>picture too.)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdwBe6ovYK-w0X3rd7iq9ldxMhGDLXNxCGDI5MKx_OE_NZk5IGXcpQ3q0AiAfAYXMmJxySDwsrnubMHCoLe6IToyAhyoqrQkVwFiYe2RFtkRRUXTMai0JExxDqE-68NNroiNSTc7hWs2A/s1600/IMG_20200129_133357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdwBe6ovYK-w0X3rd7iq9ldxMhGDLXNxCGDI5MKx_OE_NZk5IGXcpQ3q0AiAfAYXMmJxySDwsrnubMHCoLe6IToyAhyoqrQkVwFiYe2RFtkRRUXTMai0JExxDqE-68NNroiNSTc7hWs2A/s400/IMG_20200129_133357.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the tools and products for waxing and polishing. Flintz for routine stainless steel polishing; OsPho for the more difficult rusty spots; ScotchGuard wax and 3M light compound-wax combination for the gelcoat. </td></tr>
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<h3>
Bilge and Sump Cleaning</h3>
Ah, that important albeit dirty, stinky gully beneath the floorboards... We finally made ourselves pull up the flooring, get on hands and knees, and scrub out the bilge, rinse, repeat. And, while we're down there, there is the sump receptacle that catches the grimy shower and sink water. Cleaning the pumps carefully with a toothbrush to get out all the crude accumulated in every corner restores faith in their reliability. We also used this opportunity to test the manual bilge pump - check!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0VetixGtWBqHRGny7MlB_anNMG791qdPIlKvXHV17wVSuwxEhdo0cfQcw2Dg8jATn4hZE9qhmbZwspGERFZNjiRDLf1W8x0GRedVLor_jU-M4lhRymR5hU6hetkJUmyFUsDXVlIOMP7U/s1600/IMG_20200109_115518.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0VetixGtWBqHRGny7MlB_anNMG791qdPIlKvXHV17wVSuwxEhdo0cfQcw2Dg8jATn4hZE9qhmbZwspGERFZNjiRDLf1W8x0GRedVLor_jU-M4lhRymR5hU6hetkJUmyFUsDXVlIOMP7U/s400/IMG_20200109_115518.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleaning of the sump and bilge.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1H8iL2HXOBNM1VXxtLstQqCIgnsjuqQxeNJMYLZ-xdvAnjV0gD5JE3CZGlaTvpv3Lh6mgMJ-HviP-5aYT9eJXDew1HlskSwrlrE3I6IVpPN1TT4NYvvihdNun05qosvMuc_SUm4O_tXo/s1600/IMG_20200109_115813.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1H8iL2HXOBNM1VXxtLstQqCIgnsjuqQxeNJMYLZ-xdvAnjV0gD5JE3CZGlaTvpv3Lh6mgMJ-HviP-5aYT9eJXDew1HlskSwrlrE3I6IVpPN1TT4NYvvihdNun05qosvMuc_SUm4O_tXo/s400/IMG_20200109_115813.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thorough cleaning of the Rule 1100gph bilge pump.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
Cleaning: Corroded Propane Tanks </h3>
<br />
We have two small (10 pound) propane tanks for our stove/oven. When one empties, we arrange for a refill asap to be sure we never run out completely. With regular use one tank lasts 2 to 3 months. The base of the tanks have corroded severely (but luckily the integrity of the tanks remain) causing some damage to the locker as well as lots of noise as they bounce around while sailing. We searched for fiberglass replacements in Antigua but no luck. In the meantime, the locker was cleaned out and we were able to secure a makeshift new base for the tanks out of cut up pool noodles. (One day I'll do a blog on all the various uses of pool noodles on a boat.)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jZSQG70biS81u3K47zJNS8TOgUYEW325-hEucWaXxr2RrXnnnaf6zNLUPCCOBBhb2cCYnjWN8Y97SZkUvXpenoyYhhMuHXtKrQRpeyaZKkjXsJfQFXeDyRX48fKnjTR5a_p5gqBJefs/s1600/IMG_20200106_140241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jZSQG70biS81u3K47zJNS8TOgUYEW325-hEucWaXxr2RrXnnnaf6zNLUPCCOBBhb2cCYnjWN8Y97SZkUvXpenoyYhhMuHXtKrQRpeyaZKkjXsJfQFXeDyRX48fKnjTR5a_p5gqBJefs/s400/IMG_20200106_140241.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The base of both propane tanks have corroded.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Cleaning: The Bottom</h3>
<br />
Argon started off the season in November with a smooth, freshly painted bottom. Despite the effective anti-fouling paint, regular scrapping of barnacles and algae growth is needed to prevent growth from getting out of hand. A dirty bottom can dramatically negatively effect a boat's speed also.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMf9t2gY73LmUAP5pxtqt8tuzw-mzkmu9zQkjHCvCQ7AZ-yBwdepmqENJZmpL7XbB9A-Lty9fV509o4fIVEspZIzA-Gla1Mo6eFoCrnV5-1ckc4v6Nthah5jpblj8x76E0Osd4f3e0_pM/s1600/Image2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMf9t2gY73LmUAP5pxtqt8tuzw-mzkmu9zQkjHCvCQ7AZ-yBwdepmqENJZmpL7XbB9A-Lty9fV509o4fIVEspZIzA-Gla1Mo6eFoCrnV5-1ckc4v6Nthah5jpblj8x76E0Osd4f3e0_pM/s400/Image2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Regular snorkling with a scraper or brush to keep the bottom clean.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Inspecting: Air Conditioner and Steering Mechanism</h3>
<br />
As we were docked at Nelson's Dockyard for several days, were were able to plug in to shore power - yeah! In addition to not having to monitor and ration electrical usage continually, we could even turn on the air conditioner! But since this would be the first time running it since April, we did an inspection first.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOQ3Wg64P8eHn4DO8178KGJwSJ3ne7ShU4RjZhRfPDGK6TYK1BZpMur68pXPpc-memQ6S9_xvBlrRm4G1MnXYikH8aB8AX-r5tJUC3MfisgvDSMclxdpyQoh3mW_HVZaU2lsMj1AzfY4/s1600/IMG_20200109_112549.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOQ3Wg64P8eHn4DO8178KGJwSJ3ne7ShU4RjZhRfPDGK6TYK1BZpMur68pXPpc-memQ6S9_xvBlrRm4G1MnXYikH8aB8AX-r5tJUC3MfisgvDSMclxdpyQoh3mW_HVZaU2lsMj1AzfY4/s400/IMG_20200109_112549.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon's air conditioning unit is below the forward V berth thus requires the bed to be cleared and mattress to be pulled out.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDocvNYH7T9GopIJdQOxv5bV-SEMGEBnWrm-46gVmeJ4Yl0VWiiPoyPuG5vAYVBKOP-bDlfm9Um9oq3_ajZCtcu7IcJuawYARwUrKbQHnx3chI4rVoX90KAYcK3tOWJ123_u6U7-iJlcM/s1600/IMG_20200109_112600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDocvNYH7T9GopIJdQOxv5bV-SEMGEBnWrm-46gVmeJ4Yl0VWiiPoyPuG5vAYVBKOP-bDlfm9Um9oq3_ajZCtcu7IcJuawYARwUrKbQHnx3chI4rVoX90KAYcK3tOWJ123_u6U7-iJlcM/s400/IMG_20200109_112600.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspecting the air conditioning unit - all working well!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At the opposite end of the boat.... we cleared out the aft cabin. The aft cabin functions as our storage closet on board holding all sorts of things including water and diesel jugs, side panels for the cockpit, 2 guitars and other music gear, deflated paddle board and paddle, charts, storm sail, fishing poles, pool noodles and cockpit cushions. We have not used this space for its intended sleeping berth for several years.<br />
<br />
Once cleared, the back access panel is removed to allow inspection of the steering mechanism and the vented loop for the sump.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJxK9QlbphHfjVNgfQw0PCrKkdDuXPFjhaVSx4J1hU5nT81mo_0iaRk8eJcluP4r6T4EmG3rjFM3Hm8ixJ6CQ5rtsjDfHJ8_ONYb-9A4pd01y3LgvVn5tAnJ6J_4QTjlEGA7H7Ug3u6w/s1600/IMG_20200110_182114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJxK9QlbphHfjVNgfQw0PCrKkdDuXPFjhaVSx4J1hU5nT81mo_0iaRk8eJcluP4r6T4EmG3rjFM3Hm8ixJ6CQ5rtsjDfHJ8_ONYb-9A4pd01y3LgvVn5tAnJ6J_4QTjlEGA7H7Ug3u6w/s400/IMG_20200110_182114.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steering mechanism looks mostly good except for...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajCR0COccZL4FHX9OswvoldFAE4-dffWxyz1Kktd9_l7RH0MCP_gxE6vE1tl3kfa9tmlRpoQJ-9xJYVaFfdkV_vq1pcLPAp744PzWHtsF8WtLdaUk4roVuQQpAt6r29Qjvf9LkuXSZLQ/s1600/20200110_182424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajCR0COccZL4FHX9OswvoldFAE4-dffWxyz1Kktd9_l7RH0MCP_gxE6vE1tl3kfa9tmlRpoQJ-9xJYVaFfdkV_vq1pcLPAp744PzWHtsF8WtLdaUk4roVuQQpAt6r29Qjvf9LkuXSZLQ/s400/20200110_182424.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Collar seal around the rudder bearing is torn. Luckily no water is seeping in and although not urgent, its replacement is important. Add to the list.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
New Dock Lines and Eye Splicing</h3>
Ninety feet of 3 strand dock line was purchased to make 2 new 45 foot dock lines. Bob has gotten quite proficient with various types of splicing. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHV13-YwXU6dFd4OtCg0YQPBGUrGvnhYj5P2k-umPsV2-UobNOyYcllNZFV437O-OQWQl_y9yjYZ30Zeznm0JfwMUsrXHBSR-TsKCWOESK_sc9LMc4mTpWBdH8-LllJyUDztofGJdHBQ/s1600/IMG_20200114_105051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHV13-YwXU6dFd4OtCg0YQPBGUrGvnhYj5P2k-umPsV2-UobNOyYcllNZFV437O-OQWQl_y9yjYZ30Zeznm0JfwMUsrXHBSR-TsKCWOESK_sc9LMc4mTpWBdH8-LllJyUDztofGJdHBQ/s400/IMG_20200114_105051.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making eye splices for the new dock lines.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
Re-attaching the Jib Furling Drum</h3>
<br />
Furling in the jib had been oddly difficult and upon examination, we realized the furling drum was not attached properly since Grenada. The pin which sets the height of the drum was not going through the hole it was supposed to. It was going through a larger opening in the rigging toggles allowing the drum to wobble and turn very hard when the line had a heavy load. On a low wind morning while docked we took down the jib to enable lifting of the mechanism and re-attaching it properly. Then the jib was re-hoisted and furled before the winds kicked in. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqBmFHgn-Ffq-KQNaK5xYxVH6AsCV0qexLOJ1rnYankmXg3lwdvYikK4cXBFhPcreMdYHciybezSWVqQEZ3d4THfdifJvERL7SE-caRsxU7BC0CP1gPYURs1tuAujkep8Kp5PvJzqAxS0/s1600/IMG_20200108_171902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqBmFHgn-Ffq-KQNaK5xYxVH6AsCV0qexLOJ1rnYankmXg3lwdvYikK4cXBFhPcreMdYHciybezSWVqQEZ3d4THfdifJvERL7SE-caRsxU7BC0CP1gPYURs1tuAujkep8Kp5PvJzqAxS0/s400/IMG_20200108_171902.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adjusting the jib furling drum on a low wind morning while docked at Nelson's Dockyard.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<h3>
Oh, And Still On the To Do List...</h3>
<br />
We have since finished our time in Antigua and have started a new boat chore list including: cleaning the bottom of the dinghy, addressing issues with the toping lift, lazy jack refit, rudder collar seal replacement, more stainless polishing and gel coat waxing, cockpit teak cleaning, water tank sanitation, pad eye retrieval and fabrication, sail track car/bearing inspection, vented loop replacement, etc... Ah, the luxurious cruising life! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-H0ubJgZeRMgerThKpHp53dPrt6j0eisFndiWTkfvFvu7oSEqKNESTGscNZgEYNPftt688AjSfhIQGDkyuZN8wDDcp5qBZi6CSwXulrIB7uQtwghU2-rn6kJ_TF2v0HQiLExMdwhfqqc/s1600/IMG_20200121_091549%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-H0ubJgZeRMgerThKpHp53dPrt6j0eisFndiWTkfvFvu7oSEqKNESTGscNZgEYNPftt688AjSfhIQGDkyuZN8wDDcp5qBZi6CSwXulrIB7uQtwghU2-rn6kJ_TF2v0HQiLExMdwhfqqc/s400/IMG_20200121_091549%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dinghy desperately needs a good bottom cleaning. The algae growth is very stubborn and not easily scrubbed off the hypalon surface. The outboard needs to come off and the dinghy brought on land or on a dock with an assortment of chemicals and elbow grease.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span id="goog_697109783"></span><span id="goog_697109784"></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8O3TgDkB7BWmef1EL6PBK6C_hyphenhyphenRbind-50KRrDP6M6r1bI8IC3N22FnCocQXeVZlAgxHHSYgnVEogNOyBlIxdMTZGTVs4P0j5G1tndfhcSxA_u_anai_K7WlWdvbD44xO-KnIKRCZx5M/s1600/20191129_070223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8O3TgDkB7BWmef1EL6PBK6C_hyphenhyphenRbind-50KRrDP6M6r1bI8IC3N22FnCocQXeVZlAgxHHSYgnVEogNOyBlIxdMTZGTVs4P0j5G1tndfhcSxA_u_anai_K7WlWdvbD44xO-KnIKRCZx5M/s400/20191129_070223.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We need to retrieve a broken pad eye out of the boom which will entail removing the main sail and tilting the boom forward (hopefully).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The topping lift will be a whole project blog to come. But the short
version is that since getting the new main sail in Grenada last
November, we're having a lot of trouble with the topping lift getting
fouled on batten pockets and reefing rings on the leech of the main sail due to the
increase in roach. More than once, the fouled topping lift prevented the mainsail from being swiftly dropped - one time while we were approaching some dangerous reefs. After much consideration of options, we have decided to remove the topping lift and make some other modifications. Stay tuned for a forthcoming blog on how we will manage sans topping lift.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXt4VfmuvfdXHQhpAr_R2Er8Cv_odwX_wJXoEZSD7wv783yRx9TksYrELnLYmvsv9Yxo8VABJRGpSejAc4XORa54DZGL5gas9nBTgQkCYzgjsj6e0DNb0AvOgNupV8WfS02nhQeQx2m8A/s1600/P1090851.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXt4VfmuvfdXHQhpAr_R2Er8Cv_odwX_wJXoEZSD7wv783yRx9TksYrELnLYmvsv9Yxo8VABJRGpSejAc4XORa54DZGL5gas9nBTgQkCYzgjsj6e0DNb0AvOgNupV8WfS02nhQeQx2m8A/s400/P1090851.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The topping lift hanging up on one of the frictionless Antal rings for the reefing line.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
And Now for that Mojito... </h3>
<br />
In between boat projects, <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/working-while-cruising.html">day jobs</a>, and sailing, there is much to enjoy! This is a unique and eclectic lifestyle indeed. Consistent attention to maintenance, repairs and inspections is just part of the cruising lifestyle and enables us to appreciate the more relaxing aspects of island life. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAQoGnJiyws85Mdv-zajP6QUIzzY08GU7P9hh4Turio954R4W0l1lIiO1U6tZhLr9EdkzdVLD-VlYehBrtAKHcCI84ZsiU4HYr3FDeZNY4Y9oTSgMhCZWMpgxqIRPZ3C_lufGcvNNWtA/s1600/FB_IMG_1580083039331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAQoGnJiyws85Mdv-zajP6QUIzzY08GU7P9hh4Turio954R4W0l1lIiO1U6tZhLr9EdkzdVLD-VlYehBrtAKHcCI84ZsiU4HYr3FDeZNY4Y9oTSgMhCZWMpgxqIRPZ3C_lufGcvNNWtA/s400/FB_IMG_1580083039331.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It is not all work! (But perhaps while we are in the water, we should scrub the rudder and water line...)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-42474980348451201622020-01-20T09:12:00.000-05:002020-01-21T07:20:30.126-05:00The French Non-Connection<br />
Our time in the French Caribbean was wonderful... mostly. Despite being some of the most beautiful and first-world places with some of the most picturesque anchorages in the Caribbean, there are <i>connection issues</i> - literally and figuratively. Linda has admonished me to be culturally sensitive in this post. She will redact the testimony if she thinks I've crossed the line.<br />
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c'est la vie<br />
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<img height="80px" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--7ESi4mJKMc/VonLI8VAFjI/AAAAAAAATxA/Ja-wE6H4s0c/s144-Ic42/P1010491.JPG" /></div>
Capt. Bob
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<h3>
Language Connection</h3>
The thing about the French Islands is... well, they speak French. We are both high-school level Spanish speakers (which means we are sadly mono-lingual like most Americans). However, it is surprising that even around very touristy areas (like near cruise ship ports and in big cities), there are relatively few people in shops and restaurants who spoke anything but French. Even the Customs/Clearance people often spoke only French and, by definition, they are dealing with people from <i>somewhere else</i> all day long.<br />
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I'm not complaining. We faced nothing on the scale of how non-English speakers are treated in mono-lingual America. Normally, our "Je parle anglais?" or "no francais" would be met with "ah, okay... I'll try". Occasionally, it was met with an eye roll or sigh, but never a "if you don't speak the language, get out of the country" type thing. Overall, most people were polite or neutral. Mainland Guadeloupe was an outlier as it was much more common to be faced with blatant rudeness at our lack of French. Les Saintes, Martinique and Marie-Galante seemed to be much more forgiving.<br />
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So, not complaining, (well a little) but the language barrier <i>does</i> make things more arduous, complicated and harder to <i>connect</i>. Basic purchases and restaurant ordering is fine, but more complicated interactions can be extremely challenging if not impossible. Our few phrases along with Google Translate and generous locals trying their best with Anglais mostly worked. Directions, numbers, technical support for a non-working Orange SIM card... that's a different story.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3106zn48PTT5CIU9p1WFr_87Gh-yxpsBgG8tRZ2QDjM7WK2hNC2LSpLxOaLKTWyGkaFHYgaB0zyi8RqYXLdQRDA_jicyhF4r-5cbf2JzLacKQIxV3rAe3Qwr8jcgVTcEx1gomktk22AE/s1600/20191226_155825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3106zn48PTT5CIU9p1WFr_87Gh-yxpsBgG8tRZ2QDjM7WK2hNC2LSpLxOaLKTWyGkaFHYgaB0zyi8RqYXLdQRDA_jicyhF4r-5cbf2JzLacKQIxV3rAe3Qwr8jcgVTcEx1gomktk22AE/s400/20191226_155825.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Us being ready with our first two questions for a Car Rental</td></tr>
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<h3>
Designated Feeding Times</h3>
Oui, it is very French here. The daily schedule takes a bit of getting used to. When not working, we like to be on the move when we come ashore and pop into different places. We like to sample "a quick bite" or a quick drink at several places or secure provisions and boat parts. There is no such thing as "quick" on the French islands. Many of the restaurants say they are "Snack" places or have a "Snack" section on the menu. A "Snack" on one menu is a Burger with egg on top, salad and frites. Now, <i>that's</i> a snack! Budget at least an hour and a half for your quick bite. And be sure to hit the shops in the morning before the 1PM shut down or between 3-5PM (which means another trip to shore later in the evening for the 7+PM restaurant feeding times).<br />
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Dinner is late by American standards and especially by cruising sailor standards (9PM is known as "cruisers' midnight"). Dinner is an event. I should say that the food itself is usually incredible, but, an American who is used to attentive service with the periodic "Is everything alright here?", "Can I get you anything else?", "Would you like another glass of wine?" may feel quite ignored and forgotten. Don't take it personally. What amazed me was how much money is left on the table (literally) by leaving customers with empty drink glasses for the last hour of the feeding or not quickly getting us to pay and move on to open our table for waiting customers. We have learned to go
to them to pay; don't wait for the check. There are skeletons of
Americans waiting for checks in some restaurants.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jisnb0wxKKoWfnh5Szs3COjnunIo-bIkgYMhMQsBIANhXlHLvxbfSpkYPJosXsGUxrbcFtAHg2tyd-0cWBtGicP89RCcNrbv1QqxfxO3p6_HAaJyz4I0TWtZnFsVoWqiY89m101RmxI/s1600/20191222_142819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jisnb0wxKKoWfnh5Szs3COjnunIo-bIkgYMhMQsBIANhXlHLvxbfSpkYPJosXsGUxrbcFtAHg2tyd-0cWBtGicP89RCcNrbv1QqxfxO3p6_HAaJyz4I0TWtZnFsVoWqiY89m101RmxI/s400/20191222_142819.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We can decipher menus now (mostly)</td></tr>
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Nearly every shop and service closes for a couple (or more) hours in the middle of the day. This is when the designated lunch feeding happens. Once the lunch feeding is over, don't expect to find anything to eat until the dinner feeding time at a million o'clock. During our first time in Les Saintes a couple years ago, we had the misfortune of being starving at 5PM after a long hike and no lunch. We eventually bought a can of peanuts and a bottle of wine at a market we found open. We ate and drank on a public park bench sipping directly from the very nice bottle of Rose de Provence (screw cap).<br />
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Because our time is already very regimented by boat tasks, and day jobs and other logistical needs, these regimented feeding times and business closing times can further complicate things. But we are getting used to it and make an effort to adjust when we dinghy to land.<br />
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<h3>
Data Connection</h3>
Ugh - this is by far the most difficult thing. Connectivity is very hard to come by and expensive! Many things conspired against me trying to do my day job here. There were several work telecons that I simply had to drop off from because the connection was so bad. I found it incredibly frustrating because up until that point, the connectivity had been so great in all more third-world countries. If I didn't know any better, it was almost as if the French didn't <i>want</i> me to work.<br />
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Whenever I complain to people about difficult connectivity issues in the islands, I'm always met with "oh poor you... you can't work in paradise". The thing is though, if I <i>can't</i> work, I can't <i>be</i> in paradise. <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/working-while-cruising.html">This lifestyle is possible for us because we are able to work.</a> When I can't work, I get very stressed and it quickly becomes the exact opposite of paradise. <br />
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Combining <i>data and language </i>connectivity issues, I had an Orange Mobile SIM card left over from the previous year which I could not get working. We went to an Orange Boutique in the Martinique Capital of Fort-de-France for help. There was zero English spoken here (3 blocks from the cruise ship terminal in a huge metro city). Google Translate slowly helped but dealing with a technical issue was incredibly difficult and time-consuming. In the end, they got me going (after I threw enough Euros at them) and I was able to finally have my data for the painful price of 15EUR per Gigabyte. (We use more than one GB per day. This was going to hurt!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2Y53JG_fEZ0iHzmdRr8U6xaTuxqS7IVtyNsvxgDaBq0-A4efXZImtmOxsH-lsKP79yMf2Fk6UU__rtye6HmVU0RyDezPOkmaR1x2C1UUiphZ6ZAjhmqvAz45rXS7wrCbnAk30eBJp-A/s1600/20191223_121634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2Y53JG_fEZ0iHzmdRr8U6xaTuxqS7IVtyNsvxgDaBq0-A4efXZImtmOxsH-lsKP79yMf2Fk6UU__rtye6HmVU0RyDezPOkmaR1x2C1UUiphZ6ZAjhmqvAz45rXS7wrCbnAk30eBJp-A/s400/20191223_121634.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the most frustrating encounters - at the Orange Mobile store.</td></tr>
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Google Fi worked so-so or not at all depending on where we were. I
believe they are using the French Digicel (not Orange) network and that
was only 3G (or non-existent) in many places.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4dsE440_j_vjUxOv1NBvJrom0UxMGdifqHu2VUYUKanOBRdqkXFiyE9tFn_wzNclvvrxa7mFjgtngJIjAuQCQbPzmUMo_6phzYiL-6gixP_fVviSXl0bTviqt1-syej0diXEZB7DrtN4/s1600/Screenshot_20190124-102427.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4dsE440_j_vjUxOv1NBvJrom0UxMGdifqHu2VUYUKanOBRdqkXFiyE9tFn_wzNclvvrxa7mFjgtngJIjAuQCQbPzmUMo_6phzYiL-6gixP_fVviSXl0bTviqt1-syej0diXEZB7DrtN4/s400/Screenshot_20190124-102427.png" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange is LTE. Digical F is NOT. (Google FI is using the latter)</td></tr>
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
But, the Beauty</h3>
Linda <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/12/martinique-cruising.html">wrote at length about Martinique </a>already. I would say, that this is one place I could return to and charter a boat for a couple weeks. There are so many great spots on Martinique that you would never need to leave the island in that time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacMRrMjZw4nkX-a2Mc_d9BKGBCcniX61TvFD18kGlKhkeloz6Et3iCTSyRSxD7JNyCfPaSQMJAxiz85pbmfPry85f5OaTnDS0mzLRda38F-i1VQhvpoQQ8_xhvWgxuR5HWjDoddCse28/s1600/P1090096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacMRrMjZw4nkX-a2Mc_d9BKGBCcniX61TvFD18kGlKhkeloz6Et3iCTSyRSxD7JNyCfPaSQMJAxiz85pbmfPry85f5OaTnDS0mzLRda38F-i1VQhvpoQQ8_xhvWgxuR5HWjDoddCse28/s400/P1090096.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sitting Pretty in Saint-Pierre, Martinique</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1JwK49JSsvh4EpBfEaNdLjyun-d_3-tqSYuFNTU4RGgtFTs-Af0Y4vQQGuCWOajlqzlKamGTCG8jVKRK2JJfpkAGGQmeC7zi7Bqj-mqxC34gK6wi6FcfWhA2eJlZj0hHFy7jDBOTbG_E/s1600/P1090032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1JwK49JSsvh4EpBfEaNdLjyun-d_3-tqSYuFNTU4RGgtFTs-Af0Y4vQQGuCWOajlqzlKamGTCG8jVKRK2JJfpkAGGQmeC7zi7Bqj-mqxC34gK6wi6FcfWhA2eJlZj0hHFy7jDBOTbG_E/s400/P1090032.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you prefer swanky urban settings, Martinique has that as well</td></tr>
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Les Saintes is amazing. You take a well-maintained mooring for about $12USD/day and have easy access to town. The island seems to be replacing their handful of gas powered scooters and cars with electric golf carts and bikes. We love renting electric bikes to explore the island. You can cover a lot of ground and make it up some pretty steep hills in just a few hours on one of these. If you like a challenge, there are some great hikes here as well.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWOmgqO_YwllMykP_tG0G5AVIsadPdbhFfSKgOQPyMtOc79OsqwvbPkJOWGbx-_-tPGaHTieYfbNJ3Ht8thxQvD1J_tsCyPpZbue4XYdFwJURTbZ-8e-KiPNTtcj0kBLDAaFguWQ3zL8/s1600/IMG_20200103_144228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWOmgqO_YwllMykP_tG0G5AVIsadPdbhFfSKgOQPyMtOc79OsqwvbPkJOWGbx-_-tPGaHTieYfbNJ3Ht8thxQvD1J_tsCyPpZbue4XYdFwJURTbZ-8e-KiPNTtcj0kBLDAaFguWQ3zL8/s400/IMG_20200103_144228.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mooring field in Terre-de-Haut from a e-bike ride. Can you spot Argon?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdKwhpruuKItX4dhCYyg6Hl8v9jxFJzX6DDKGTaWvgyABFlS-T7c78aILpuffMLPMU8Fpr_zns3lghcmPG_Tt1RsyZtX7uav3GWYqsA1_qpep7QaiuoXB3SENtk1KYNXKke5NDyKXJbe4/s1600/IMG_20200103_144335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdKwhpruuKItX4dhCYyg6Hl8v9jxFJzX6DDKGTaWvgyABFlS-T7c78aILpuffMLPMU8Fpr_zns3lghcmPG_Tt1RsyZtX7uav3GWYqsA1_qpep7QaiuoXB3SENtk1KYNXKke5NDyKXJbe4/s400/IMG_20200103_144335.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Covering some ground on the e-bikes</td></tr>
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<h3>
Getting there was half the fun</h3>
We had a fantastic day-sail from Dominica to Les Saintes. Seas were fairly flat with moderate winds over the beam. We kept sails up right up very close to the mooring field. We arrived on Dec30 and things were already filling up for New Years Eve. When we arrived, there were three moorings left. By the end of the day, people were racing for them and fighting (in French) over them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU0pub1CtoVyfVGxuQIARNgk-tg6zTjCCzdh9rdNAkSHhcb7V-oQArHbPaJ8q9Tg6CZpWv9dYYeHvVDATGA823LgjSrEz7N9hMrV2mWoBzO9iQqFzj2IeNIfDym3F8Ky_2uDE1CAP_H4Y/s1600/IMG_20191230_101622%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU0pub1CtoVyfVGxuQIARNgk-tg6zTjCCzdh9rdNAkSHhcb7V-oQArHbPaJ8q9Tg6CZpWv9dYYeHvVDATGA823LgjSrEz7N9hMrV2mWoBzO9iQqFzj2IeNIfDym3F8Ky_2uDE1CAP_H4Y/s400/IMG_20191230_101622%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sailing on a reach toward Les Saintes from Dominica</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzM8SN79V8d0kU01rZ6y6sSEzAyWV2AMwLAXzlLATGw1orGsNtgAZWE92A9g6hkBHGr8ZmZ9SdBQXQgCMYehXTisIlnbNHAkX0qcq_maFa2njGuUmPenkeDdzZWEcmyHLkpSKI5Vj2Rv4/s1600/IMG_20191230_130220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzM8SN79V8d0kU01rZ6y6sSEzAyWV2AMwLAXzlLATGw1orGsNtgAZWE92A9g6hkBHGr8ZmZ9SdBQXQgCMYehXTisIlnbNHAkX0qcq_maFa2njGuUmPenkeDdzZWEcmyHLkpSKI5Vj2Rv4/s400/IMG_20191230_130220.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sitting on our mooring in the popular neighborhood near town.</td></tr>
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<h3>
Lodging Upgrade</h3>
We went ashore to a hotel to try and harvest their wifi password. In general, we found that wifi was a very protected commodity in the French Islands. It is very common for them to insist on typing a password into your phone or computer so that they don't reveal it (we have the technology to thwart this). But this particular hotel would not even do <i>that</i> unless we were guests! It occurred to me - we're safely on a mooring in sight of this hotel. Let's ask how much a room is. We needed google translate to do this even though there is a giant sign in the reception area that says "We Speak English". So I bought a wifi-password for 160 Euros and they threw in a hotel room, shower and pool. And of course they insisted on typing in the password. Using our technical advantage in the wifi arms race, we were able to harvest the password and use it in the bullet router aboard Argon for the last couple days of our time in Les Saintes. This was a major help. The hotel let us lock our dinghy to the dock overnight (fortunately Linda found a guy who really did speak English to clarify that with).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3YYPHfM1SYNxva15KuInj6Lwzpq-oyc27LZv0_Bw9vGXZYriAl0lle_ZhNJyGQU4-ZrKHmKnMarqf9DkCPko1uvpxwiLNnOOvbUwEKZNs1GLtWYW2W3SyUbeSMYeevB6WpanL81y_yU/s1600/20200101_134836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3YYPHfM1SYNxva15KuInj6Lwzpq-oyc27LZv0_Bw9vGXZYriAl0lle_ZhNJyGQU4-ZrKHmKnMarqf9DkCPko1uvpxwiLNnOOvbUwEKZNs1GLtWYW2W3SyUbeSMYeevB6WpanL81y_yU/s400/20200101_134836.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 160 Euro wifi password came with this free room/shower and air conditioning!</td></tr>
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After leaving Les Saintes, we stopped for just one night in Deshaies, Guadaloupe. It is a good jump off point for a 45 mile sail to Antigua and also a Customs port. Deshaies is a very pretty little town with cool shops and restaurants. You can also rent a car here (with help from Google Translate). Deshaies is a challenging harbor to anchor in sometimes as it gets deep quickly and the katabatic winds commonly kick things up to 25+ kts. We were able to get in close enough this time to anchor in 24 feet of water. Not bad. People arriving later in the day (and that night) had a difficult time finding a place in shallow enough water. Often they were getting shooed away by skippers who felt they were trying to anchor too close.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLJRut2xbWDqWxu1fcusu3gpAfTN6raWYiOiBOlKDn4eNzeoTgg4SBYFMahKlEhvr9xTUA07xrp10oPdWa4VJ3DkDS6yiMlRGz_rXBvK2g4_7cXCyIBF5Pw-LhmdPQup-rzf21B694rWQ/s1600/upload_-1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLJRut2xbWDqWxu1fcusu3gpAfTN6raWYiOiBOlKDn4eNzeoTgg4SBYFMahKlEhvr9xTUA07xrp10oPdWa4VJ3DkDS6yiMlRGz_rXBvK2g4_7cXCyIBF5Pw-LhmdPQup-rzf21B694rWQ/s400/upload_-1" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sitting Pretty in Deshaies</td></tr>
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<h3>
On Balance</h3>
This lifestyle is a balance between blissful moments and misery and everything in between. The end of the leg south last year and the start of the leg north this year were difficult and frustrating for various reasons. Our time in the French Islands, was definitely on the bliss end of the spectrum despite the challenges. Having had the time to get used to the pace and limitations, I would go back any time!<br />
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-29554727379034867242019-12-29T10:47:00.002-05:002019-12-29T13:19:46.921-05:00Martinique and Joyeux NoëlWe planned on staying in Martinique just a few days. Two weeks and five harbors later, we reluctantly wrapped up our exploration of this fantastic French island to continue our voyage northward. <br />
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Captain Linda Perry Riera
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<h3>
Harbors</h3>
After a 12 hour challenging sail <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/12/saint-vincent.html" target="_blank">from St. Vincent</a>, Argon nestled in to the extensive bay at St. Anne on the southern coast of Martinique. This vast area of good holding in 15 foot depths abutting a precious town made for a welcoming introduction.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdclMgfzE9NBHtu9_eGqXBxsSnoVhZDAC4zmbMLh1oHpS3YF2SwDkgdFwVGMqd3WLrKqTu7H3Je6c2cPECGVK9wb-I7_n3tMcd5F0TQMfxFGAIXY7ZuTdn1qoOW5JZjMBCP5a7ODF-E4Y/s1600/martinique.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="798" data-original-width="1232" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdclMgfzE9NBHtu9_eGqXBxsSnoVhZDAC4zmbMLh1oHpS3YF2SwDkgdFwVGMqd3WLrKqTu7H3Je6c2cPECGVK9wb-I7_n3tMcd5F0TQMfxFGAIXY7ZuTdn1qoOW5JZjMBCP5a7ODF-E4Y/s400/martinique.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">vous êtes ici</td></tr>
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Later, a brief but jaunty down-wind sail to the southwest harbor of Anse DÁrlet (definitely on our all time top 10 list), we enjoyed the pristine water, jovial beach and attractive hillside town.<br />
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For a change of pace we also anchored in the urban harbor of the capital city of Fort de France before setting off on an easy short early morning hop to Anse A L'Ane for a couple of nights.<br />
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The last few days on the island were perhaps the highlight of our Martinique experience anchored close to shore on an skinny swath of sand in Saint-Pierre at the base of Mt. Pelée along the northwest coast. Saint-Pierre overflows with tragic history from the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Pel%C3%A9e" target="_blank">infamous Mount Pelée eruption </a>in 1902 killing nearly 30,000 people and destroying the city.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Anne Harbor was a welcome respite after a long difficult sail from St. Vincent.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Large sea turtles are very common in these waters. We saw the most at St. Anne and Anse DÁrlet.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rolly down-wind sail along the southern coast through Passe Des Fous. Rocher Du Diamant is prominent in the background.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSf2NlpY-WGVMZadiiH5fmaq5aoEUdcENqTg560CsxNrJEzE3VapA61mfwovPXnFJQCCiN-3rIYs-DoByfKxU679Jcxui3hRE4gPVriOgKi5CDTA8uVbcSiCX647dFE5vVgXtMrY9fT0/s1600/P1080864.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSf2NlpY-WGVMZadiiH5fmaq5aoEUdcENqTg560CsxNrJEzE3VapA61mfwovPXnFJQCCiN-3rIYs-DoByfKxU679Jcxui3hRE4gPVriOgKi5CDTA8uVbcSiCX647dFE5vVgXtMrY9fT0/s400/P1080864.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The spectacular harbor of Anse DÁrlet on the southwest coast (one of our all time favorite harbors).</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anchored near a huge cruise ship in the big city of Fort de France.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning sail from Anse A L'Ane to Saint-Pierre.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harbor of Saint-Pierre with the impressive 4000+ ft Mt. Pelée volcano in the background.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anchored in Saint-Pierre with Mt. Pelée in the background.</td></tr>
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<h3>
Exploring Land</h3>
We were able to get to land quite a bit while in Martinique. Sometimes it was to work, but mostly it was for exploration. Martinique, like all the French islands, is great for provisioning with well stocked markets, good quality produce, excellent wine and cheeses, and reasonable prices. Investigating shops, visiting chandleries, and embarking on rural and urban hikes were a great way to get lots of exercise and experience the island intimately.<br />
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Embarrassingly, we still know no French aside from a handful of standard phrases and pleasantries. It is a surprising barrier considering the focus on tourism in the country. However, the vast majority of people were either friendly or neutral about our lack of local language skills. (This is in contrast to the unwelcome vibe in much of Guadeloupe.) Google Translate is of great help in the French islands.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fantastic, extensive trail along the southeastern coast from St. Anne to Saline Beach.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vigorous hike along the southwest coast.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great grilled food along the beach in Anse D'Arlet.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting cascading lights pouring out of the Hotel De Ville in Anse D'Arlet. These are made of thousands of used plastic water bottles. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN7EzAH4UHB8ny0nP2aAbOzYXsP6VQs2fj-JazhEnL-3fTdeC9wsQ-MPDiwyBbdZVQTxWJvyIEM6Ojxk-tKaIm9b-YQL63-ZuwLuxPL1Qdk-PFKXW0oJcseJp6xIMkj5gtQlzHTkkQr2I/s1600/P1080865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN7EzAH4UHB8ny0nP2aAbOzYXsP6VQs2fj-JazhEnL-3fTdeC9wsQ-MPDiwyBbdZVQTxWJvyIEM6Ojxk-tKaIm9b-YQL63-ZuwLuxPL1Qdk-PFKXW0oJcseJp6xIMkj5gtQlzHTkkQr2I/s400/P1080865.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of the plastic water bottle cascade.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0pWG5B7U1xbPim5w_vT2H62qjQODCmib8SFKOD_-s-6j4PS00JLGVj1-nnDKEBAn4ysuGEsah0b-YNgj_-BXmqZ_xaEz8i_8dXV0KPVfCrQAt0NpDXZzB40O5DGPUjLe6Ejek75Xzg9A/s1600/P1090008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0pWG5B7U1xbPim5w_vT2H62qjQODCmib8SFKOD_-s-6j4PS00JLGVj1-nnDKEBAn4ysuGEsah0b-YNgj_-BXmqZ_xaEz8i_8dXV0KPVfCrQAt0NpDXZzB40O5DGPUjLe6Ejek75Xzg9A/s400/P1090008.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful glowing plastic garbage mirage at night. Also a reminder of the immense permanent trash we create.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQxjUg3lOrdxOv3RCj3YEEij58iHKh_xYoyLpXwLJ_AtTdoDQ4BXQwyUHg6EkefTDg2RzNXMZWhCkRvmjiVuAy2j0kceZ9YEjM_ErtPiBtJI3ajin0fZBNpYyOJL_Q-ReLli9glyoUoU/s1600/P1090035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQxjUg3lOrdxOv3RCj3YEEij58iHKh_xYoyLpXwLJ_AtTdoDQ4BXQwyUHg6EkefTDg2RzNXMZWhCkRvmjiVuAy2j0kceZ9YEjM_ErtPiBtJI3ajin0fZBNpYyOJL_Q-ReLli9glyoUoU/s400/P1090035.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring the big city of Fort de France.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKAERJqLvyYyNscc4PjsmxdwEU6vZcmpJM6E0_AcDiOvj8Vj6n7fwr89AKOx-QjTQ2k-8gWp8i4WA8yUlNcGaqWgqggIdd2RF2Kym-EY-9GA2ePhutUTadWQagf35bkS0P2_Ynet0y7m0/s1600/P1090050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKAERJqLvyYyNscc4PjsmxdwEU6vZcmpJM6E0_AcDiOvj8Vj6n7fwr89AKOx-QjTQ2k-8gWp8i4WA8yUlNcGaqWgqggIdd2RF2Kym-EY-9GA2ePhutUTadWQagf35bkS0P2_Ynet0y7m0/s400/P1090050.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Long hike from Anse A L'Ane to Anse Mitan lead us to a defunct hotel at the tip of Pointe du Bout with interesting street art.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkhKHraxfnL0bd4AFB6_xX1OYpOalxn94BXSYzqzZ8P7FvVCk7SdIKAz3_AXo-a5hrCE4vM-EmsATH3hLH2Z7yO-rpIomXy7SRQo8kGVWb8wdAAOnYrtwHSS6Zvf-Xd-aFAOQbG4OQYOA/s1600/P1090106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkhKHraxfnL0bd4AFB6_xX1OYpOalxn94BXSYzqzZ8P7FvVCk7SdIKAz3_AXo-a5hrCE4vM-EmsATH3hLH2Z7yO-rpIomXy7SRQo8kGVWb8wdAAOnYrtwHSS6Zvf-Xd-aFAOQbG4OQYOA/s400/P1090106.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eclectic downtown Saint-Pierre. Many buildings retain a wall or two from original structures prior to the destruction by the volcano in 1902.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXjg81x3BuKCu_iImamISQ0ajN8ktLFbepibIpRge86MxFV4sK7wBRw1sDSF3WTaYpWBrP5PgpaepNRaiTJ6l4N3L6lznfjsBtqrWdXR4Sdnxn3kqmogx5H6fMIXW_3OM8mKtVJWITxc/s1600/P1090134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXjg81x3BuKCu_iImamISQ0ajN8ktLFbepibIpRge86MxFV4sK7wBRw1sDSF3WTaYpWBrP5PgpaepNRaiTJ6l4N3L6lznfjsBtqrWdXR4Sdnxn3kqmogx5H6fMIXW_3OM8mKtVJWITxc/s400/P1090134.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterfront produce marker in Saint-Pierre.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRw1rXIO1WRiHTsw30zASyP9ra4uiAA67dIAiA7tnvNtO7CoNamgcXrTnhYZIHE5bQXSWJ9pEdKxn5tIzAxyoDnrHVRJVMmh4ewYwzDFYMlA4sNq2GXmH4CSumCwU8TLgpE_o0WEZkG1A/s1600/P1090147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRw1rXIO1WRiHTsw30zASyP9ra4uiAA67dIAiA7tnvNtO7CoNamgcXrTnhYZIHE5bQXSWJ9pEdKxn5tIzAxyoDnrHVRJVMmh4ewYwzDFYMlA4sNq2GXmH4CSumCwU8TLgpE_o0WEZkG1A/s400/P1090147.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiking Mt. Pelée. The starting point was at about 2400 feet then we hiked up to about 4000 feet. (and there was still more to go)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Jw4ScJREE-RAmKPQlse9QBa2AxLEDgMI_p6_juv9RRSochXzXcrcP3HX5M5SeI8_QaevNKMWxBSM_CmDVmSQMSHbOrU4QRFpzTmPCU4ZqHQp3bh-sNABZa5Tf5IAe4S774pB9IowCmw/s1600/P1090180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Jw4ScJREE-RAmKPQlse9QBa2AxLEDgMI_p6_juv9RRSochXzXcrcP3HX5M5SeI8_QaevNKMWxBSM_CmDVmSQMSHbOrU4QRFpzTmPCU4ZqHQp3bh-sNABZa5Tf5IAe4S774pB9IowCmw/s400/P1090180.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breathtaking views down the carved trench of Mt. Pelee. We were pretty tired by about now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQauIQOkkNtmG6A_sOk8jpoOYUWVDkt10Vg3C1-ksANmc1UxAO2y9LjNFTZcxS8f_GbfUPDB4xZsaTHey3iLStPd-yuZxtj99QAgI4YJK4acKsfb5b5QkTC3xaxUdy53ErOIiLFWODl2U/s1600/P1090182.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQauIQOkkNtmG6A_sOk8jpoOYUWVDkt10Vg3C1-ksANmc1UxAO2y9LjNFTZcxS8f_GbfUPDB4xZsaTHey3iLStPd-yuZxtj99QAgI4YJK4acKsfb5b5QkTC3xaxUdy53ErOIiLFWODl2U/s400/P1090182.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoomed in shot of Argon's anchorage along the city of Saint-Pierre from atop Mt. Pelee volcano. Argon is just above the ferry dock.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjNcrDMmNkEv56TpTZyvYegbxkGRytiUw_vC-nQgNUgAG5HuCW8SwDQpUN3D4vb_zR4UenhdJtC3VCXecWUfkFagIRHWosl0YDabMaiWLEbNuKFQP5Yv08U17N4Z8Jt-XYrNmNGED8HZ8/s1600/P1090171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjNcrDMmNkEv56TpTZyvYegbxkGRytiUw_vC-nQgNUgAG5HuCW8SwDQpUN3D4vb_zR4UenhdJtC3VCXecWUfkFagIRHWosl0YDabMaiWLEbNuKFQP5Yv08U17N4Z8Jt-XYrNmNGED8HZ8/s400/P1090171.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Are we there yet?! Nope, still more ridges beyond.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC7Aoo_ZdKVguHEQEHaBcAMru2kPj-ssesYe7korjkxJxBF-ngac5z25MBfMHbcKIVBbZrGyn-MJJABqcMA9ggG0k5-MJWjixV3q0hNIG9M4G_NcnS7mMJIG9_3y16H4b36x-OHm0OwlU/s1600/P1090187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC7Aoo_ZdKVguHEQEHaBcAMru2kPj-ssesYe7korjkxJxBF-ngac5z25MBfMHbcKIVBbZrGyn-MJJABqcMA9ggG0k5-MJWjixV3q0hNIG9M4G_NcnS7mMJIG9_3y16H4b36x-OHm0OwlU/s400/P1090187.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying post hike adult beverages in a funky downtown bar, Saint-Pierre. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikG0R4sFvfrHOoKdtn4p693YXXEugtUFP42i1axivkcBWevk28KqvSCXhMIJ2da7QvnmUyW4CC7oV_2_95OEge5ObT8As5JPdXWzGAT3rYL2xevr-8mVh6QVnA6aS3qKCXk0lZp0GSToM/s1600/20191222_142819.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikG0R4sFvfrHOoKdtn4p693YXXEugtUFP42i1axivkcBWevk28KqvSCXhMIJ2da7QvnmUyW4CC7oV_2_95OEge5ObT8As5JPdXWzGAT3rYL2xevr-8mVh6QVnA6aS3qKCXk0lZp0GSToM/s400/20191222_142819.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We are getting better at deciphering menus.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<h3>
The Negatives: Thefts, Connectivity and Transportation </h3>
Martinique proved to be a wonderful island for cruising. However, there are a few challenges.<br />
<br />
Dingy thefts are common in Martinique (similar to many Windward islands). Even gasoline cans getting swiped out the dinghy as well as gasoline siphoned out of the can is problematic. (We anchored next to and hung out with two other American boats in Saint-Pierre - both had their gas tanks stolen recently while in Martinique.) The logistics and expense associated with replacing any of these items is substantial. Currently there are transportation related strikes on the island further increasing gasoline thefts due to the constricted supply. Stainless steel chain ($$$) locks our outboard and gas can to the dinghy. And another stainless steel chain locks the dinghy to the dock when going ashore. It is also necessary to lock the dinghy to your boat at night as thefts occur even when at anchor with owners on their boat. Argh!!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-P5mRkxY6tV0bhJHWGtHlq98F_JEgzxC96olNbjt7IkEPMG2Z_o-LDFqZTw8iFSSbs4tEHg2Fh01zg0D0nK-4uC0_jsqpcUXJvaySEOcFb_nPAULTyiMYj9sES31o63WdhKjHIwfbNsw/s1600/20191220_141715.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-P5mRkxY6tV0bhJHWGtHlq98F_JEgzxC96olNbjt7IkEPMG2Z_o-LDFqZTw8iFSSbs4tEHg2Fh01zg0D0nK-4uC0_jsqpcUXJvaySEOcFb_nPAULTyiMYj9sES31o63WdhKjHIwfbNsw/s400/20191220_141715.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heavy chains and locks add a layer of inconvenience when going ashore, but it is necessary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Martinique is the most first-world place we have been in months. Roads are in excellent condition, products and services are plentiful. But this country is by far the most difficult and expensive for data connectivity. Thank goodness we had Google-Fi going in one of our phones, because for much of the time here, it has been the only option but it was slower than normal (not fast enough for voice calls / telecons). We always try to have redundant connectivity options if possible since we are so <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/working-while-cruising.html" target="_blank">dependent on it for work</a>. We still had an Orange SIM card from last year on the way south but could not get it to work. And even if we could, the cost of data on Orange is 15EUR/GB... more than quadruple the Digicel price of about $3USD/GB. When we got to Fort de France, we eventually found an Orange Store and brought one of our phones with our old Orange SIM. No one in the store spoke any English and we struggled through using Google Translate. For some reason (in french) we needed a new SIM card (19EUR). But even then, that didn't work so we needed to be escorted to a strangely secure upstairs section of the store to see <i>"The Technician"</i> (9EUR more) who got us working. After all that hassle, data is still 15EUR/GB so we continue to limit the use of the Orange SIM for when we need really fast LTE (like for work teleconferences). We will certainly go way over our allowed 15GB from Google FI this month and have to buy additional data at $10/GB (but this is still cheaper than Orange). We continue to muddle through the data challenges while island hopping.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhVwOCjjg_WnMozSOwsbJpeYp9qZnIJJfKw4FYFWk_6-jE31vFOf2NZAd7cEBLq-cbQrlIs70LWy71RFkeA8GJqEn7R_LNN9KReQeh-GQB-wqCW_KI6UB8ZLt53CoQ-V63BCyBBg-IMc/s1600/20191223_121634.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhVwOCjjg_WnMozSOwsbJpeYp9qZnIJJfKw4FYFWk_6-jE31vFOf2NZAd7cEBLq-cbQrlIs70LWy71RFkeA8GJqEn7R_LNN9KReQeh-GQB-wqCW_KI6UB8ZLt53CoQ-V63BCyBBg-IMc/s400/20191223_121634.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More
hours spent in search of and waiting at an Orange store for help
securing SIM card data. No English was spoken here; there was lots of
usage of Google Translate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKNYdOWzTIAg58IIp-hrvTc3bnJiMCf3zxeTya08YrdG1UufTms10SGlYACf62wc0aCFWIH4l57w4PPMa3-ZecxLtJoL-fgxMIX7fdjmilCG9nbcIrW3G2cuSBe9V4yzacMXxhdoAnNv4/s1600/20191226_155825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKNYdOWzTIAg58IIp-hrvTc3bnJiMCf3zxeTya08YrdG1UufTms10SGlYACf62wc0aCFWIH4l57w4PPMa3-ZecxLtJoL-fgxMIX7fdjmilCG9nbcIrW3G2cuSBe9V4yzacMXxhdoAnNv4/s320/20191226_155825.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Google Translate is immensely helpful not only for deciphering menus but for more complicated transactions like renting a car or trying to rectify data issues.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Martinique has a lot to learn from the non-french West Indies when it comes to transportation. In many of the non-french islands, there is a system of private buses and taxis. In Grenada and Antigua for example, a driver can buy a van, and buy a permit to run a particular bus route. His incentive then is to pack as many people into his van and get them to where they want to go as fast as possible so he can cram more people into his van. We have never seen a bus refuse to pick up someone because of such a silly reason as being "too full". We have taken several rides on each other's (or strangers') laps. For the sailor trying to get places, this is extremely efficient. You will never wait more than a few minutes on any road without several buses slowing down, honking and asking you if you want a lift. Often, the buses make stops at businesses and restaurants to deliver supplies from vendors. It's incredibly efficient <i>Island UPS</i>. And costs only about $1USD/trip. The downside of this system, is that because of the incentives, they drive... <i>insane</i>. (Just close your eyes and hang on and enjoy the thumping music.)<br />
<br />
Martinique is the extreme opposite. There are very few taxis, and there is no private bus system. There are over-sized, overly comfortable, air conditioned municipal buses that arrive at specific stops <i>very</i> infrequently. (And do not dare try to pay fare with anything larger than a 10EU note.) To effectively get around Martinique, you need to rent a car. But securing a rental without an advance reservation is very difficult as the supply is strangely restricted. The roads are clogged with rental car traffic and parking can be difficult. Message to Martinique: be more like Grenada and the other islands with transportation (only maybe drive a little less frighteningly).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4ucfPOtEG_4l5w3tNz6f-GIHxKmVRrJ6Zw6SCPhRsnKx502fuxpYYiSjCjIk69sQqsA9l9ZUPfK95lifzSHa7AhsXgznf011rg-16ZFY9hVf23ixFz6-kKoToeQt2WymwIaaDu3X-z8/s1600/IMG_20191218_125918.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4ucfPOtEG_4l5w3tNz6f-GIHxKmVRrJ6Zw6SCPhRsnKx502fuxpYYiSjCjIk69sQqsA9l9ZUPfK95lifzSHa7AhsXgznf011rg-16ZFY9hVf23ixFz6-kKoToeQt2WymwIaaDu3X-z8/s400/IMG_20191218_125918.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob working while we wait (for a long time) for a bus to take us to the chandleries in Le Marin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<br />
<h3>
Boat Projects in Paradise</h3>
Martinique is the Caribbean shopping mecca for mariners (second only to perhaps St. Martin). We took an (inefficient) bus trip from St. Anne to nearby Le Marin. The trip proved fruitful as we scored zinc anodes for the sail drive and bow thruster, an additional piece of stainless steel chain for added dinghy security, a headlamp, and sail tape.<br />
<br />
There is always a list of things to fix, tweak, maintain, and inspect. We checked off several small projects recently including whipping on the reefing line and main halyard (to assist line setting for reefing), scrubbing the bottom of the dinghy, rigging the boom brake, checking and adjusting the rig tune, replacing lots of rigging tape. We also made a trip to a fuel dock and, after hovering for nearly an hour awaiting our turn, topped off diesel and gasoline and filled our water tanks. <br />
<br />
There are several projects on the to do list including polishing the bow roller, addressing the vented loop on the sump discharge to stop it siphoning, cleaning the sump, inspecting and cleaning the bilge pump, checking the lazy-jack lines for chafe, getting the broken backing plate out of the boom (probably requires removing the boom) and having a new padeye welded, inspecting all steering mechanics and autopilot... The more I type, the more I think of...<br />
<br />
Oh,
and we are way behind on laundry. There is a growing, stinky pile craving attention. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguw-1rXVT442rd_N5zlx0cNbFjBQgZWMjD3cV2PuadAXSqPYHzLR6OXJU6zp82eS9YzJ39Fw6ffPm71rPzvdiiwn3UvnR-tERE5gnGn7N0MAsjlfvR5cETG8L0RLmaH8QCmTTLHLNsSfc/s1600/IMG_20191225_170945%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguw-1rXVT442rd_N5zlx0cNbFjBQgZWMjD3cV2PuadAXSqPYHzLR6OXJU6zp82eS9YzJ39Fw6ffPm71rPzvdiiwn3UvnR-tERE5gnGn7N0MAsjlfvR5cETG8L0RLmaH8QCmTTLHLNsSfc/s400/IMG_20191225_170945%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tweaking the rig tuning, replacing some codder pins, and fresh sail tape.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbZtBYp5bj0lr-w1szOqlTkXqojG0zsVqhwwslwwR6bzdm_XR1FYdfl3OG4H-qZHmLFta8PklzHkOB_Di-WCqjcgqrNT1d-EtK5mpU55HMwivJcpTGZgoKDjwGx_zLpA9VyQdZia80Iw/s1600/IMG_20191226_073911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbZtBYp5bj0lr-w1szOqlTkXqojG0zsVqhwwslwwR6bzdm_XR1FYdfl3OG4H-qZHmLFta8PklzHkOB_Di-WCqjcgqrNT1d-EtK5mpU55HMwivJcpTGZgoKDjwGx_zLpA9VyQdZia80Iw/s400/IMG_20191226_073911.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whipping mark on the reefing line and main halyard to assist with reefing. (It will be re-done when we can get some reflective sail thread for better visibility at night.)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjNpc-do6-2ETve0x6PTMl88G_PfMaCAFZ7XOiefxjuq_Mg6ImNHe9kSOzSb25hbFPtn0JOBcTUWaRSkVgi8Vub89b2gaPs_vTJ_nvP_-BAD5fRZMf7nQHRGYOChVMiCmX6qzBGjQJPM/s1600/IMG_20191226_074535%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjNpc-do6-2ETve0x6PTMl88G_PfMaCAFZ7XOiefxjuq_Mg6ImNHe9kSOzSb25hbFPtn0JOBcTUWaRSkVgi8Vub89b2gaPs_vTJ_nvP_-BAD5fRZMf7nQHRGYOChVMiCmX6qzBGjQJPM/s400/IMG_20191226_074535%257E2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Replacing the shackle with dynema lashing on the main tack for a more clean attachment to the gooseneck bolt.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboWQW_vDJEWu1yUEuNo4HndM-pFUVD6VZsyXJPXF_qDe8Y6ZUAChnYb-7t6gPYqz5sAbKaL0lEpCX3Dj5Dc2xHgeQJqtql7iwLo6WAApStkMIDavIL0eX_ciR-llccJ1zEbSRCGcoKlw/s1600/IMG_20191226_075047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboWQW_vDJEWu1yUEuNo4HndM-pFUVD6VZsyXJPXF_qDe8Y6ZUAChnYb-7t6gPYqz5sAbKaL0lEpCX3Dj5Dc2xHgeQJqtql7iwLo6WAApStkMIDavIL0eX_ciR-llccJ1zEbSRCGcoKlw/s400/IMG_20191226_075047.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rigged boom brake - particularly useful since we are now happily often sailing off the wind. (A recent padeye breakage is cause for improvising the attachment point temporarily.)</td></tr>
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<h3>
Where to Next?</h3>
The next island north is Dominica. Despite being big fans of this beautiful and rugged island, we will keep our stay in Dominica brief so that we can move on to Les Saints / Terre de Haut (part of another French country, Guadeloupe, thus with the same data limitations and language barrier).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPK0-tsB-eGCVizIM_36zqxag2KvSN6x16tikYlVbhl-AhH_nZPHaWkmy1p8H5jgW2GPnUZNDe90zWFQVH0a7A9KdqbkY2Va13oDdaRREISFraEi-dhGf3SbDaxwrDhGnp4Jz_sPksBcU/s1600/P1090156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPK0-tsB-eGCVizIM_36zqxag2KvSN6x16tikYlVbhl-AhH_nZPHaWkmy1p8H5jgW2GPnUZNDe90zWFQVH0a7A9KdqbkY2Va13oDdaRREISFraEi-dhGf3SbDaxwrDhGnp4Jz_sPksBcU/s400/P1090156.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Au revoir, Martinique!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xGFGLgL6vDHpYpRwlivp5P67rHQ2BYAZYZn_MPff96IoYf9vQNWxfB0hdMvE2fofkDw4eexXNXaRPH1gPi9Ao2NXjaQwUV-9ku4Q0SE7QPc49vL-TDwJM01GxRO979Ss4jgJc3BnjhU/s1600/IMG_20191224_175847%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xGFGLgL6vDHpYpRwlivp5P67rHQ2BYAZYZn_MPff96IoYf9vQNWxfB0hdMvE2fofkDw4eexXNXaRPH1gPi9Ao2NXjaQwUV-9ku4Q0SE7QPc49vL-TDwJM01GxRO979Ss4jgJc3BnjhU/s400/IMG_20191224_175847%257E2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-42642298443146176272019-12-21T07:32:00.002-05:002019-12-21T13:21:30.392-05:00Saint Vincent - Fascinating!Like many cruisers, we by-passed St. Vincent last spring on our southward journey to Grenada. Reports of security issues keep many away, especially charter boats. However as with many things in life, St. Vincent is complex; not all good or all bad of course. I am so happy we decided to park there for a bit and experience a little slice.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
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<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
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<h3>
Sailing from Bequia, Grenadines to St. Vincent</h3>
It was not straightforward to figure out when or where to go as the
winds were up and with a northerly component making the sail from
Bequia to St. Vincent more difficult than usual. And the popular
Atlantic Rally to the Caribbean (ARC) was just arriving in the main
harbor, Blue Lagoon, leaving no room. After investigating the handful
of western harbor options, all with inconsistent reviews at best, we
settled on Cumberland Bay. And oh what a find!<br />
<br />
St. Vincent is similar in size and population to Grenada: about 130
square miles (almost 20 miles long) with a population of about 100,000.
But its topography is more akin to Dominica with jagged, dramatic
mountains (including the 4000 ft La Soufiere volcano), lush rain
forests, rocky cliff-lined coasts, and scant sandy beaches. <br />
<br />
Cumberland Bay is only about 20nm away from Bequia. But with 20+ kt E/NE winds forcasted, we weighed anchor at 0600 from Admiralty Bay, Bequia to get an early start before the winds and seas peaked. It was a short 6nm of exposed ocean and then the lee of St. Vincent quickly offered protection.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LSRz9XmKonRnCQx928R5y5SQYiPn7vKqv8cZHNEtT6QAYuPx1lAHfb1IZPQuyB5BKlRhxTXZFpSwN2I3MmVABZ_bD5laf-uxQ0xWLRmnm9Mgi0rfg14GdpHME8NFIRgJcemy8los3do/s1600/IMG_20191213_080528%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LSRz9XmKonRnCQx928R5y5SQYiPn7vKqv8cZHNEtT6QAYuPx1lAHfb1IZPQuyB5BKlRhxTXZFpSwN2I3MmVABZ_bD5laf-uxQ0xWLRmnm9Mgi0rfg14GdpHME8NFIRgJcemy8los3do/s400/IMG_20191213_080528%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the dramatic coast of St. Vincent.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGI20GUlIniZSDasLcph0cCxSIrMv23AR7it0PGEQH8CJS5QNVnQYpGPxlfTy_kBW1jPIV8vQteymnMOdh_tQJIF6kdbhcwZKRn4-UfxP2bSb9RcYOak6SJAUIx2RiDgGjb_Qx-ZBTHzE/s1600/IMG_20191213_070840%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGI20GUlIniZSDasLcph0cCxSIrMv23AR7it0PGEQH8CJS5QNVnQYpGPxlfTy_kBW1jPIV8vQteymnMOdh_tQJIF6kdbhcwZKRn4-UfxP2bSb9RcYOak6SJAUIx2RiDgGjb_Qx-ZBTHzE/s400/IMG_20191213_070840%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning sail with squalls in the open water north of Bequia, a bit south of St. Vincent.</td></tr>
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<h3>
Cumberland Bay, St. Vincent</h3>
A deep bay with shallow rocks reaching out from both the north and south sides of the entrance, a rapidly shallowing shelf, and a lush steep forest enclosure, Cumberland Bay is a unique oasis.<br />
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Cas, proprietor of the simple but welcoming beach restaurant Mojitos, greeted us as we approached to help with the tricky med moor style anchoring. We were instructed exactly where to drop the hook as the depths swiftly jumped from more than 100 to less than 10 feet. We then handed Cas about 100 feet of our line which he brought to shore and tied to a coconut tree to keep us from swinging in to the rocks.<br />
<br />
Cas talked to us several times about his plan to organize and sponsor a Sailing Regatta around St Vincent in April 2020. He seems very keen to do it and after sailing these waters, I can attest that it would be a pretty zesty ride! His <a href="https://www.facebook.com/casg.williams.10" target="_blank">facebook page</a> may have more info as it approaches. <br />
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Argon remained comfortably nestled in Cumberland Bay during our two night stay despite the winds kicking up a party outside the bay. Our time in here felt like visiting someone's modest neighborhood where all their cousins gathered to hang out; completely non-touristy, everyone going about whatever they do normally leaving us to ourselves, but also making us feel welcome inviting us to join in if we wanted to.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7AXGzjWRRaaqSCe6HoigGS15UbYcpHcrP9tcRhVemXmBw9f_9PGtJROwSU8EzSM4aBf9V1s1BTTsLwXK1ohw-l5qoomPzV9hi-OcA_AKCmPFk_pmXFf-DGQpp_OG614nl0teMxwcqTM/s1600/IMG_20191213_092119%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7AXGzjWRRaaqSCe6HoigGS15UbYcpHcrP9tcRhVemXmBw9f_9PGtJROwSU8EzSM4aBf9V1s1BTTsLwXK1ohw-l5qoomPzV9hi-OcA_AKCmPFk_pmXFf-DGQpp_OG614nl0teMxwcqTM/s400/IMG_20191213_092119%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cas, proprietor of Mojitos, shows us exactly where and how to anchor as the deep bay quickly shallows along shore. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYXPZBklwhS9zFm4NV_neWpfsuQug2Ep9XodTvmEajuVlLuexpqCExkWYXa49CR6WS5p1u7tJ_yf2qkYuGMzqgkjbpAy5AcGwXP8ts85cEKyh8B2AWxqNtow5hyqCtz07R1BTNMvVMAw/s1600/P1080680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYXPZBklwhS9zFm4NV_neWpfsuQug2Ep9XodTvmEajuVlLuexpqCExkWYXa49CR6WS5p1u7tJ_yf2qkYuGMzqgkjbpAy5AcGwXP8ts85cEKyh8B2AWxqNtow5hyqCtz07R1BTNMvVMAw/s400/P1080680.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enveloped in a very peaceful and beautiful anchorage. The winds were up a bit outside but one would not know it from in here.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhaPNt3Gk0R8Yrn4ziHc9ls1iOOB2D-T8ytpakp2v6KkOUxriwgXLxxN5H51cibTJcGKWjEIVcgQF_9_AcMbjy9odGS7hOAQFMVkFJAFTKdp033cGDkXz2Rgro1b_YPsF_dVkkDYG_lkg/s1600/P1080771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhaPNt3Gk0R8Yrn4ziHc9ls1iOOB2D-T8ytpakp2v6KkOUxriwgXLxxN5H51cibTJcGKWjEIVcgQF_9_AcMbjy9odGS7hOAQFMVkFJAFTKdp033cGDkXz2Rgro1b_YPsF_dVkkDYG_lkg/s400/P1080771.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There was usually only one or two other visiting sailboats in the entire bay.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZqFySZowxg4bckGqZSmLHea5D_CLpBiklUvLsrks9iCP2ADOhm7A8Zqcz-yDYIBmNDfpYDahQur7Ox3PmMfU1HjFNk2FUfKarW6PL7uKW5k9NQrpt-jpOUoYTwA35zy87WJHiIfsr6c/s1600/IMG_20191213_113043%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZqFySZowxg4bckGqZSmLHea5D_CLpBiklUvLsrks9iCP2ADOhm7A8Zqcz-yDYIBmNDfpYDahQur7Ox3PmMfU1HjFNk2FUfKarW6PL7uKW5k9NQrpt-jpOUoYTwA35zy87WJHiIfsr6c/s400/IMG_20191213_113043%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon anchored in Cumberland Bay along side a couple of local fishing boats. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1DzIej0TPplAozB9eaq3xEyMA5F-pEr7tC2X24Ehkg-pS-LDfhbZn68LQbmCmWte-NmxSeyZp5yK5Q5tVB-euN7WmmIYUiTdc49a3OmB0xvGafa_DXK4YjhT69LvUYGfY3bL2lQDuZ8/s1600/IMG_20191214_102934%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1DzIej0TPplAozB9eaq3xEyMA5F-pEr7tC2X24Ehkg-pS-LDfhbZn68LQbmCmWte-NmxSeyZp5yK5Q5tVB-euN7WmmIYUiTdc49a3OmB0xvGafa_DXK4YjhT69LvUYGfY3bL2lQDuZ8/s400/IMG_20191214_102934%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the bus ride to Chateaubelair.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuq2QNJnKk8QtRxuVX0DP5vV4etk32e5lxgKUyDlkXodl0N2S_v_LxWkMg2pyv42Crtdh6o3blz9aPCtfvEFhLqf8FKkLGKYtpmiwIcFbaBY3fvWlJOcA5UDPfQ9OywH8J53ogedV8iek/s1600/IMG_20191213_130135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuq2QNJnKk8QtRxuVX0DP5vV4etk32e5lxgKUyDlkXodl0N2S_v_LxWkMg2pyv42Crtdh6o3blz9aPCtfvEFhLqf8FKkLGKYtpmiwIcFbaBY3fvWlJOcA5UDPfQ9OywH8J53ogedV8iek/s400/IMG_20191213_130135.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cas took us on a challenging hike through the land of his family - along a ridge with dramatic views and down a steep, muddy hillside.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLg7sKIg-zT5vcFHI0shDP4NoqWiPC5CKAkkRV-bnwplpS_69sqzbKm65duog74-og_83g283PeaX_FadVGwUr5EM1KxgHr8sH3ax3YLEzhGET-4fDoYV0m91rHZGjraquzGY6jsLmpQ/s1600/P1080723%257E2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLg7sKIg-zT5vcFHI0shDP4NoqWiPC5CKAkkRV-bnwplpS_69sqzbKm65duog74-og_83g283PeaX_FadVGwUr5EM1KxgHr8sH3ax3YLEzhGET-4fDoYV0m91rHZGjraquzGY6jsLmpQ/s400/P1080723%257E2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweaty and muddy, we came upon Cas' dad, Evan, and one of his many brothers, Pie and stopped to chat for a bit. While there, we picked some sour sop from out back.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2ijQ7IeISS1UeF9ABToBiTe66-k9U4s1lb8OrcIvHJUQDaZ1IUfpMLwsfEn29bi9XaWDuxe0_8nem_4pTEDxsZB0q1hctAYRIElbJU4d92QCbZRQiLLnlcF992rwfre_iHTazMzU3Sw/s1600/IMG_20191214_080340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2ijQ7IeISS1UeF9ABToBiTe66-k9U4s1lb8OrcIvHJUQDaZ1IUfpMLwsfEn29bi9XaWDuxe0_8nem_4pTEDxsZB0q1hctAYRIElbJU4d92QCbZRQiLLnlcF992rwfre_iHTazMzU3Sw/s400/IMG_20191214_080340.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the hike, we gathered grapefruit, passion fruit, tangerines, lemons, sour sop, mango apples and basel. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJeeLymIis-yD_vBb9B4iGWKVtt65NDQpVTpi8yp9cwE3IZv_ojMy5TrUvnDsbJmYIYKRfvk04azA3SYgLvZEfz3qFvSxXb0Or92grOVO-YLNuNVs6zIluOMSDyghkCFQqcyxvtN7ht1E/s1600/IMG_20191214_103154%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJeeLymIis-yD_vBb9B4iGWKVtt65NDQpVTpi8yp9cwE3IZv_ojMy5TrUvnDsbJmYIYKRfvk04azA3SYgLvZEfz3qFvSxXb0Or92grOVO-YLNuNVs6zIluOMSDyghkCFQqcyxvtN7ht1E/s400/IMG_20191214_103154%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colorful, sturdy houses built in to the steep mountainsides.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb8zXK1E1xSXgerXiUokkq0_QdCNHi2Nb47FREtjAhSiOi5Qph82c51SPF07SxWas07IAGjKC8L3HRGZAXbFvbT8xTdoXcaNK1WAFs8KFnlmKnVL4OCF9yAF5ByTTMEfa_lO3vRJmvCz0/s1600/IMG_20191214_104130%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb8zXK1E1xSXgerXiUokkq0_QdCNHi2Nb47FREtjAhSiOi5Qph82c51SPF07SxWas07IAGjKC8L3HRGZAXbFvbT8xTdoXcaNK1WAFs8KFnlmKnVL4OCF9yAF5ByTTMEfa_lO3vRJmvCz0/s400/IMG_20191214_104130%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Cumberland Bay from the roadside up the hill.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Ysx910v9KgDZ5TDxUA1Kwxd4fIR4jcmgFMxoz570Fo2qN8bxJGlZlZ7QLZF4sgdg_mjM1Pl0BqIFj4OISqRNqHVbI1Xep8NcBqN0zCGYzk9IYIFgc-smVZ76oTvnfP6BcY2vO3Ec9dI/s1600/P1080762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Ysx910v9KgDZ5TDxUA1Kwxd4fIR4jcmgFMxoz570Fo2qN8bxJGlZlZ7QLZF4sgdg_mjM1Pl0BqIFj4OISqRNqHVbI1Xep8NcBqN0zCGYzk9IYIFgc-smVZ76oTvnfP6BcY2vO3Ec9dI/s400/P1080762.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fishing hut of Captain Guidi's (a colorful ex-pat from Italy). Captain Guidi is very passionate about his homemade
lures. We bought a customized lure for trolling off Argon. Look
forward to trying it out and bringing in a big one (or just any one).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlmFdAa2HZR9njiADj2-Q3XYgta31KbAPpbTD4F_a-fpVEL8D8SVs-44JpM49PkRYq5HhOzNy5MuC4EhDOsgNGt35KK4EZq4D40zHqadGAXZUkKevbzs093cGNLLZY_ZF9zKxRZOvE94/s1600/IMG_20191214_171124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlmFdAa2HZR9njiADj2-Q3XYgta31KbAPpbTD4F_a-fpVEL8D8SVs-44JpM49PkRYq5HhOzNy5MuC4EhDOsgNGt35KK4EZq4D40zHqadGAXZUkKevbzs093cGNLLZY_ZF9zKxRZOvE94/s400/IMG_20191214_171124.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach view and Mojitos restaurant.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<h3>
Time to Move On</h3>
We enjoyed our final evening and prepared to depart before daybreak for a long sail to Martinique.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxN3gBU_y7B5ORVFxCv1xvYAR2SoB4ca_R_B5l_Q7sSqe5MSewCyK_tTgl3rHA9eheqarEz9W0YA8pXBPmAApfnFAGu1jEdS5D9xaM1nOL7I0sHjVOERtxedccUBj9BlL-5I6paTQrhoM/s1600/00100lrPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191214174010350_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxN3gBU_y7B5ORVFxCv1xvYAR2SoB4ca_R_B5l_Q7sSqe5MSewCyK_tTgl3rHA9eheqarEz9W0YA8pXBPmAApfnFAGu1jEdS5D9xaM1nOL7I0sHjVOERtxedccUBj9BlL-5I6paTQrhoM/s400/00100lrPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191214174010350_COVER.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Impressive coconut tree climbing. We all stood back as the heavy
coconuts came crashing down. What was best about this is that it is not
for us, the lone tourists. It's just a few guys hanging out wanting
coconuts. And happy to share with visitors.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpGCZv-o_Ukb3mqQF9Kbxc296HZEa2Y2GtnwaAzYCPAUTN0CwuV2h949tVHQTGqVkKb8wN8huLFQiSXsuwHMmCHGgzOxVZ6XYWtV1ggUKQppIHA1dWO5NBm_IcIQGcpoN1lZRmoCysgys/s1600/IMG_20191214_174348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpGCZv-o_Ukb3mqQF9Kbxc296HZEa2Y2GtnwaAzYCPAUTN0CwuV2h949tVHQTGqVkKb8wN8huLFQiSXsuwHMmCHGgzOxVZ6XYWtV1ggUKQppIHA1dWO5NBm_IcIQGcpoN1lZRmoCysgys/s400/IMG_20191214_174348.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Venita, Rasta Joe and others all waiting for their serving of fresh coconut.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEUepZS9fRczgTHRJnwDvcpMNhlBgKxvkBIUOltt2latFR9cHVYXt-ZxGcBf41vQ6jZ2FWW2CM1PMWy1m6sAMBTv0tcXUti9JgiAK8mETwxc5rAtUW1TodVm_oHdE9cIIN5HGXdqyly2I/s1600/IMG_20191214_174522%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEUepZS9fRczgTHRJnwDvcpMNhlBgKxvkBIUOltt2latFR9cHVYXt-ZxGcBf41vQ6jZ2FWW2CM1PMWy1m6sAMBTv0tcXUti9JgiAK8mETwxc5rAtUW1TodVm_oHdE9cIIN5HGXdqyly2I/s400/IMG_20191214_174522%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kenny cuts open several coconuts for all of us.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnbD4UKN3HRD2_xDrIG-idFOha6I3tLy01SzCYFEjPxWQ7wUUa_o0w1TLKuhoOp5dT3uibq2cjxe4Gf2XKzx-3sLB4LNnOWym0ErQ5zxwAOMdhlmE2ZpRuLH98R4eR7owuZ8rnT9Ln1rY/s1600/IMG_20191214_174724%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnbD4UKN3HRD2_xDrIG-idFOha6I3tLy01SzCYFEjPxWQ7wUUa_o0w1TLKuhoOp5dT3uibq2cjxe4Gf2XKzx-3sLB4LNnOWym0ErQ5zxwAOMdhlmE2ZpRuLH98R4eR7owuZ8rnT9Ln1rY/s400/IMG_20191214_174724%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First we drink the milk, then the entire coconut gets split open and we scoop out the soft layer of fresh coconut with a piece of the shell. Yum!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilKbFIyAxOUOTa6JZa1jNYaibsK5RvDmLnRhLFd6acKgWDGTHD0gOj90bqBjxmHYk6GY-1X9Ze19X0ltUGMwJ8w4sT2rvw9ZXg6YdGU6YX7XSAwRYEVc9Dd7gluJw7H7-X-n9ggdprKro/s1600/IMG_20191214_180920%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilKbFIyAxOUOTa6JZa1jNYaibsK5RvDmLnRhLFd6acKgWDGTHD0gOj90bqBjxmHYk6GY-1X9Ze19X0ltUGMwJ8w4sT2rvw9ZXg6YdGU6YX7XSAwRYEVc9Dd7gluJw7H7-X-n9ggdprKro/s400/IMG_20191214_180920%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nestled in Cumberland Bay for our final night. Prepare to depart at 0500 in the morning for the 12 hour sail to Martinique.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDNNgjw0XaGi1tIWAWiQO2SfaxylRkuhfekbMEUPyU6u6uyZIJTCbKygwc9jDFaBTMZCjcuTCM8p-9567tK1Tk4oYiP0hc2CutK8zcXZ1JpMkL3ScXQTstEUHRah2VjqjKDuSNblkpx8Q/s1600/00100sPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191214173944042_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDNNgjw0XaGi1tIWAWiQO2SfaxylRkuhfekbMEUPyU6u6uyZIJTCbKygwc9jDFaBTMZCjcuTCM8p-9567tK1Tk4oYiP0hc2CutK8zcXZ1JpMkL3ScXQTstEUHRah2VjqjKDuSNblkpx8Q/s400/00100sPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191214173944042_COVER.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passion fruit mojitos made by Venita at Mojitos beach restaurant. So happy we were able to experience this place briefly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-33515706446038598092019-12-11T20:22:00.001-05:002019-12-14T12:36:41.933-05:00And We're Finally Sailing: GrenadinesAfter a month in Grenada getting Argon back in the water, completing major and minor projects, and a <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/go-up-bit-more-on-grenada.html" target="_blank">couple of false starts</a>, we were finally able to begin the sailing part of this journey. And just in the nick of time to host Christian and Brittany!<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
<div>
<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
</div>
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<br />
<h3>
Carriacou</h3>
Although geographically part of the Grenadines, politically Carriacou is part of the country of Grenada. Only 12 square miles and with a population of 8,000, the size and simplicity of this island is a stark contrast to Grenada. Carriacou is a favorite of ours and we were ecstatic to finally be able to depart Grenada and sail to Carriacou on the last day of November.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgsbmQTPC-kMmevJfXOoUVOT7aqurBKcCv1dXoQiitDMukSqZcyQDZjftA5nC6IbpeC2x1h8a746vTdCBZliO_R727d3WfiXWoiylQKO4a8gDCA8AoIDdlbz95k1_6jjqtO6ysUeiNN4/s1600/IMG_20191130_112529%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgsbmQTPC-kMmevJfXOoUVOT7aqurBKcCv1dXoQiitDMukSqZcyQDZjftA5nC6IbpeC2x1h8a746vTdCBZliO_R727d3WfiXWoiylQKO4a8gDCA8AoIDdlbz95k1_6jjqtO6ysUeiNN4/s400/IMG_20191130_112529%257E2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easy 18nm close reach sail on calm waters from Grenada mainland to Carriacou where we met up with Christian and Brittany. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJPHATdNqDE3TRn8RLxBr597rZvoReCuSPtTCdoTPUg8kJz-AEALsNEuWOaMOXuSMsLBRRwSq5mZnuJEo9GxqJOuJKsml-BRdvnyUfC2cT2Szm5FtZZDsobjFCvWjBXemv-0nAOowwQqU/s1600/IMG_20191130_172523%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJPHATdNqDE3TRn8RLxBr597rZvoReCuSPtTCdoTPUg8kJz-AEALsNEuWOaMOXuSMsLBRRwSq5mZnuJEo9GxqJOuJKsml-BRdvnyUfC2cT2Szm5FtZZDsobjFCvWjBXemv-0nAOowwQqU/s400/IMG_20191130_172523%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christian and Brittany joined us in Carriacou!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJWYlBoZb-xDgiPXHsDOMq5i9nmYB_gnfbZ2jfLUi-Z7za0QWIpp-WICX7BUTxHimzHivfMTM46G5UCzRE5RsbHmGD2Mk1v_7JuGkEtkUrWPCAe1iuzhaagZkL2c7s4jvjz5KEIObaKI/s1600/P1080531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJWYlBoZb-xDgiPXHsDOMq5i9nmYB_gnfbZ2jfLUi-Z7za0QWIpp-WICX7BUTxHimzHivfMTM46G5UCzRE5RsbHmGD2Mk1v_7JuGkEtkUrWPCAe1iuzhaagZkL2c7s4jvjz5KEIObaKI/s400/P1080531.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon is the lone sailboat anchored in Sparrow Bay on the west side of Carriacou</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtgC9W0TKH37ftvl1VPhndsZ69JSJoB6Qt0xEtf-3POdS9JIPk8q_q1_Cs0oe4n6VCH5W6J-lN4ESktsCCEroOCMAXkcynhTiKEzNmYUtzjjSGzwz0168x2KaIaCH1N6tOaWAhrwjyjBQ/s1600/P1080523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1182" data-original-width="1575" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtgC9W0TKH37ftvl1VPhndsZ69JSJoB6Qt0xEtf-3POdS9JIPk8q_q1_Cs0oe4n6VCH5W6J-lN4ESktsCCEroOCMAXkcynhTiKEzNmYUtzjjSGzwz0168x2KaIaCH1N6tOaWAhrwjyjBQ/s320/P1080523.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside Bogles Round House overlooking Sparrow Bay. Bogles is a charming set of stone cottages and a restaurant. This is one of the several unique places Christian and Brittany stayed at on land when not sleeping aboard Argon. They both enjoyed the experience of sleeping on board, but prefer land accommodations. :-)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinINS_LSDgMcJ4xdQ0fJ4KZPENg5SxjCvnNGncTLWVa8fLy64vbOIg0ro81en2ZNzez436x6cS0NdNAf4Ct21j5H8UjBH2JbWg3UoeZzs9GHCWqk9-4zhe-_loK_BjZ0fPhdOWhodr8NQ/s1600/P1080556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinINS_LSDgMcJ4xdQ0fJ4KZPENg5SxjCvnNGncTLWVa8fLy64vbOIg0ro81en2ZNzez436x6cS0NdNAf4Ct21j5H8UjBH2JbWg3UoeZzs9GHCWqk9-4zhe-_loK_BjZ0fPhdOWhodr8NQ/s400/P1080556.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite harbor in all of the Caribbean is Anse la Roche. We enjoyed a private bbq with lobster hosted by Tim Roy and friends.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2SauIPo-3e0Ew2hDfAfPAOLLWrltOHgWZEG9oHLY6_xnhq0rWxrEcHapTiUGPyIepPkVnj9J5MOumyJGubvpNrMple2dGC5-VhKyzkKU7-ip3Pd-HTSloMwx16lOe2JI-QfgNUDr2jKc/s1600/P1080565.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2SauIPo-3e0Ew2hDfAfPAOLLWrltOHgWZEG9oHLY6_xnhq0rWxrEcHapTiUGPyIepPkVnj9J5MOumyJGubvpNrMple2dGC5-VhKyzkKU7-ip3Pd-HTSloMwx16lOe2JI-QfgNUDr2jKc/s400/P1080565.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the bbq, Christian popped the question on the beach!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVyVtKNVePWBh6qfo310FK1O-Rs09U6xymtzkFRecIi7ByaATJWEpefCGgL3IAPscPTOKIxUOi77hzEYgOpWCCkAPC30ppcudNN0c5pz-W2UGBLoZjjvuUvHdDROKjX8X6Jao6EcFFZac/s1600/P1080575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVyVtKNVePWBh6qfo310FK1O-Rs09U6xymtzkFRecIi7ByaATJWEpefCGgL3IAPscPTOKIxUOi77hzEYgOpWCCkAPC30ppcudNN0c5pz-W2UGBLoZjjvuUvHdDROKjX8X6Jao6EcFFZac/s400/P1080575.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Engagement celebration hosted by Tim Roy with a beach bbq on Anse la Roche. Congratulations to Christian and Brittany!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzpVt54mnEVE61Ss8BEvhtOqLS9uiwnY5wmzaWPmWdqyKKjR9vSOoamz8J9X83uOx12TXyiClS2UbEyH2X7zCqRAyrxghx187W5K3kepsa3jGOCmjY5vDdc42JiypbBbZbUh7sgHmROA/s1600/20190317_113439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzpVt54mnEVE61Ss8BEvhtOqLS9uiwnY5wmzaWPmWdqyKKjR9vSOoamz8J9X83uOx12TXyiClS2UbEyH2X7zCqRAyrxghx187W5K3kepsa3jGOCmjY5vDdc42JiypbBbZbUh7sgHmROA/s400/20190317_113439.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon anchored in Anse la Roche.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tqqCO6FLEGK_Dv4BPC7s65APeDeHfSjqHpu2AhnBxJf-qaPdgsqtaaOaqwmLZEni4ZNG0yL7L1aazKOmnmQQDz8y53P7o8KEICw8m-tfjKQT7PHExxuWqJY18mYX2TdM2hScHkoWQpw/s1600/IMG_20191202_160211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tqqCO6FLEGK_Dv4BPC7s65APeDeHfSjqHpu2AhnBxJf-qaPdgsqtaaOaqwmLZEni4ZNG0yL7L1aazKOmnmQQDz8y53P7o8KEICw8m-tfjKQT7PHExxuWqJY18mYX2TdM2hScHkoWQpw/s400/IMG_20191202_160211.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring Carriacou on foot.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2eFe_kohYNM4oYY1jcHGiQgg18OFlLLZ-SzQ0T1Y10b_u_tgLfRhmQFkh-5k_PQRZ7CqCY9ZHnXX_fUKE84jCEJSn9WHemgyfxWhWQAiHCTZiA6r_mtu5xM4p-TMRz0ap2ViGTORB8vM/s1600/IMG_20191202_163511%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2eFe_kohYNM4oYY1jcHGiQgg18OFlLLZ-SzQ0T1Y10b_u_tgLfRhmQFkh-5k_PQRZ7CqCY9ZHnXX_fUKE84jCEJSn9WHemgyfxWhWQAiHCTZiA6r_mtu5xM4p-TMRz0ap2ViGTORB8vM/s400/IMG_20191202_163511%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overlooking Tyrrel Bay where Argon is anchored for the last day/night on Carriacou.</td></tr>
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<h2>
<u>Grenadines</u></h2>
Sprinkled over a 40nm swath of ocean between Grenada and Saint Vincent, the Grenadines is a group of more than a
dozen islands with a population of about 10,000. Union and
Bequia are the most populated; several islands are
non-inhabited such as the group of Tobago Cays. The Grenadines is one of
my favorite cruising grounds due to the clear turquoise waters and
relatively rustic Caribbean vibe.<br />
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<h3>
Union Island</h3>
After several heavenly and celebratory days in Carriacou, it was time to check out of customs and immigration, weigh anchor, and set off for the country of St. Vincent and The Grenadines (SVG). We were high to the wind for the short 10nm sail but were able to coast in to Clifton Harbor at Union Island on a single tack.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhIMT-dlnpwKaiF657V_qUETnrzZasO_ZE-qjI__-QAxWRUIFWEn_9PUhIkHzhEsB2SXo53zOkI2j3Oz3obEW6Ed2HsG5bvh6sEhSM9K78uso_nqji-a_y8XctnrP9MQEg9hsRmXbRxA/s1600/P1080582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhIMT-dlnpwKaiF657V_qUETnrzZasO_ZE-qjI__-QAxWRUIFWEn_9PUhIkHzhEsB2SXo53zOkI2j3Oz3obEW6Ed2HsG5bvh6sEhSM9K78uso_nqji-a_y8XctnrP9MQEg9hsRmXbRxA/s400/P1080582.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carriacou in the background as we sail to Union Island.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHZ0zIgcqHTuKMyjU_mpLgz9THNbcje1Q0xy4v8BxeP2GAjKMfCFJZAfD4PDvlXwqBm1gsSQVTwvAnW6wVLI908R3tBeeQ6L2_ju2wkxcRdv90QnwBhqilSc6eQx3g0wreWnrhgreW0E/s1600/IMG_20191203_132353%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHZ0zIgcqHTuKMyjU_mpLgz9THNbcje1Q0xy4v8BxeP2GAjKMfCFJZAfD4PDvlXwqBm1gsSQVTwvAnW6wVLI908R3tBeeQ6L2_ju2wkxcRdv90QnwBhqilSc6eQx3g0wreWnrhgreW0E/s400/IMG_20191203_132353%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christian and Brittany assuming the honor of hoisting the courtesy flag for the country of St. Vincent and the Grenadines after checking in to customs and immigration. (Not quite tan yet.)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8BeTHcCbFQaPOQZ1DxakEAx1Jeycp0C6UPFeGMpEGUbyDWY0PHImcLp-ynWf-IQXPURPhBKgK7wNNVd8lfE0AAhyeKIz1JDPSuHZ0YYDUv-UXZc6Sjl3sJpELzCBgysQ-IxwNfosTnvU/s1600/IMG_20191204_093936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8BeTHcCbFQaPOQZ1DxakEAx1Jeycp0C6UPFeGMpEGUbyDWY0PHImcLp-ynWf-IQXPURPhBKgK7wNNVd8lfE0AAhyeKIz1JDPSuHZ0YYDUv-UXZc6Sjl3sJpELzCBgysQ-IxwNfosTnvU/s400/IMG_20191204_093936.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We met up with Tim Roy's mom, Jenny for some fresh produce and fantastic mango-papaya-banana smoothies.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwKl7GroiKuiUzfpZRc0nf9gbct6hJOL8riyESZWybYLbv1YnVGSkiR4KMv8n6VR-shHl1VLGMuUEB8n_CMqqq39LcXTZjL_-YctuLcQB5daTDwiXnUjyc_Aw8JdR8NuQ5ewVvqhiMNc/s1600/IMG_20191204_095109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwKl7GroiKuiUzfpZRc0nf9gbct6hJOL8riyESZWybYLbv1YnVGSkiR4KMv8n6VR-shHl1VLGMuUEB8n_CMqqq39LcXTZjL_-YctuLcQB5daTDwiXnUjyc_Aw8JdR8NuQ5ewVvqhiMNc/s400/IMG_20191204_095109.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinghy parking lot in Clifton Harbor, Union Island.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-7RyT_XSdDdoAiapVQ7Jag02uGDOw1FClkDJOExzew14wguSYgJcySjguijdLLh_Qgiony22C7Pgg9NY7udyLetASPof0AGtk10XHd6NDPmFmGktNBanksG0bl2HuSxAcY4v4HIhO6Us/s1600/IMG-20191211-WA0001%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="611" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-7RyT_XSdDdoAiapVQ7Jag02uGDOw1FClkDJOExzew14wguSYgJcySjguijdLLh_Qgiony22C7Pgg9NY7udyLetASPof0AGtk10XHd6NDPmFmGktNBanksG0bl2HuSxAcY4v4HIhO6Us/s400/IMG-20191211-WA0001%257E2.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brittany passes a beer to the impressive kite surfer, Butter, as we watch his acrobatics from Happy Island.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJu0Zb9LSnQDtchIAI0_Ls_51dNPAWlCV8oW40ENN30MEf2A4YRBUFVRROG3z1llAvPrXQ999VG7fujWazPbjjnm0rnwALP-iSV8hwysisLmY3QX3jzuc6YXS6A0Vv6d65iNo5XlvISjc/s1600/IMG-20191211-WA0002%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1484" data-original-width="1113" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJu0Zb9LSnQDtchIAI0_Ls_51dNPAWlCV8oW40ENN30MEf2A4YRBUFVRROG3z1llAvPrXQ999VG7fujWazPbjjnm0rnwALP-iSV8hwysisLmY3QX3jzuc6YXS6A0Vv6d65iNo5XlvISjc/s400/IMG-20191211-WA0002%257E2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda with Butter (after hitching a ride). His kite boarding show was spectacular.</td></tr>
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<br />
<h3>
Mayreau</h3>
Mayreau is a precious little island with less than 300 residents. Salt Whistle Bay is a magical anchorage (potentially my second favorite) overlooking a thin spit of sand allowing the constant easterlies through to cool whilst providing a barrier to the choppy seas. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7vru8_0RSni3wsdwtJs8Y3N2yQLgV-9vhJT0ns5-PsFAf_zrBVrEbtNSNKiSkGthIKsnhwiypo-HdWVWhEApp6SBgGiRk6EyERtp9UQalLMV9geb8QncjxMAQW-EiA6JIj5dysyV-Jg/s1600/IMG_20191204_150122%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7vru8_0RSni3wsdwtJs8Y3N2yQLgV-9vhJT0ns5-PsFAf_zrBVrEbtNSNKiSkGthIKsnhwiypo-HdWVWhEApp6SBgGiRk6EyERtp9UQalLMV9geb8QncjxMAQW-EiA6JIj5dysyV-Jg/s400/IMG_20191204_150122%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heavenly Salt Whistle Bay.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-7O8srAoCCF8wG6Svx7qTykmbwhrtRh5h6k1rIj_LWC2fu5MX_HpHUTTZQGHlatr6ZY1psUGQLauu1QI-YSBXf75kmXQAwXLC4ZcPaBhloyW03ym1Kk4p7EAKgIMYtHb-rsNNkA513c/s1600/IMG_20191204_152100%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-7O8srAoCCF8wG6Svx7qTykmbwhrtRh5h6k1rIj_LWC2fu5MX_HpHUTTZQGHlatr6ZY1psUGQLauu1QI-YSBXf75kmXQAwXLC4ZcPaBhloyW03ym1Kk4p7EAKgIMYtHb-rsNNkA513c/s400/IMG_20191204_152100%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many boat boys are eager to help cruisers anchor, moor, as well as offer fish, bread and their beach bbq services.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYYe1-6xDEbF1V2IPLHRJhZbubayU58eHMxwUo7FulsqwYMIRfmiTgahEzILRIqtTJN0-fJTVYES24dQhK_mPGh3lrpHbzxKPMD714Zy16Z3K8qvh2RGVxRJ2QLfp54ecvEWcSdPPwLo/s1600/IMG_20191205_082702.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYYe1-6xDEbF1V2IPLHRJhZbubayU58eHMxwUo7FulsqwYMIRfmiTgahEzILRIqtTJN0-fJTVYES24dQhK_mPGh3lrpHbzxKPMD714Zy16Z3K8qvh2RGVxRJ2QLfp54ecvEWcSdPPwLo/s320/IMG_20191205_082702.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local grapefruit, papaya, and passion fruit are breakfast favorites.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uWexA7z6vSKF0UIQvcX90AI3KMf2YOm-aH04Pn3AXDfUP9_a7Uxmeajmj7xFKJ_AxBhIzXwT1THC_JwqkfC9nQCICkkFQFvDutXx7Bp6Rk2WBv4jZp6L0aA_Inw9HJdAUbInRdsjYOA/s1600/IMG_20191205_100546.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uWexA7z6vSKF0UIQvcX90AI3KMf2YOm-aH04Pn3AXDfUP9_a7Uxmeajmj7xFKJ_AxBhIzXwT1THC_JwqkfC9nQCICkkFQFvDutXx7Bp6Rk2WBv4jZp6L0aA_Inw9HJdAUbInRdsjYOA/s320/IMG_20191205_100546.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An easy swim or short dinghy to the pristine beach of Salt Whistle Bay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioyXx-kOBVxpLc-LdF1J1IbiHipZqvuiGJ2fBN0ZGqr-A-H2r6Udis75F7N72eQC_GGb2TtcVWxkQYIt3fcG4Jm82YGj9GXHNYrKAyeis_gLCxsfL9TibB4-IC_sbQQ6zz8l6LbNNNjGU/s1600/IMG_20191205_191349%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioyXx-kOBVxpLc-LdF1J1IbiHipZqvuiGJ2fBN0ZGqr-A-H2r6Udis75F7N72eQC_GGb2TtcVWxkQYIt3fcG4Jm82YGj9GXHNYrKAyeis_gLCxsfL9TibB4-IC_sbQQ6zz8l6LbNNNjGU/s320/IMG_20191205_191349%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nadika was a lovely host to a delicious dinner of grilled snapper and chicken with plantains, salad and fried rice. She also provides laundry services.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
Tobago Cays</h3>
A protected marine park consisting of five small islands surrounded by reefs, Tobago Cays is popular with cruisers and charter boats in this area and a truly unique destination. Although restrictions have been present for 25 years, the area remains threatened from the extensive usage. Several local boat boys regularly hold beach bbq's and sell fish but there is frustration among many locals that they are not able to benefit enough from this resource.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWFgq3HjbAg6LKs6KPJ_yDvlr1569JNhoSap5r8ZaXEd28bdGJwpo8wrIwKCelIXBrfO9wrFEPBCyTxZDFU53djwcQBCIwrpX8nsd8C5J7nAiHzT6iY3K3tMEDXfzTfsQwFDPDNGLUPvw/s1600/TobagoCaysAerial.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1052" data-original-width="1600" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWFgq3HjbAg6LKs6KPJ_yDvlr1569JNhoSap5r8ZaXEd28bdGJwpo8wrIwKCelIXBrfO9wrFEPBCyTxZDFU53djwcQBCIwrpX8nsd8C5J7nAiHzT6iY3K3tMEDXfzTfsQwFDPDNGLUPvw/s320/TobagoCaysAerial.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Five uninhabited islands of the Tobago Cays surrounded by reefs to the east providing some protection from the open ocean.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ya9AIQGXRCWeQtPFpU2IXJJ4fg5TM5rPcQr86i1yXHi6NGfPKkWG2h3-4xGKPt30zWQusd9Yn5u15s5DkYnjzzfpvN8jn9J6NxpAGmnEu3UjXyQ18TnUi3qpufVG2CEFNxqIJ5tumXE/s1600/IMG_20191206_135516.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ya9AIQGXRCWeQtPFpU2IXJJ4fg5TM5rPcQr86i1yXHi6NGfPKkWG2h3-4xGKPt30zWQusd9Yn5u15s5DkYnjzzfpvN8jn9J6NxpAGmnEu3UjXyQ18TnUi3qpufVG2CEFNxqIJ5tumXE/s320/IMG_20191206_135516.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small spit of beach a short swim away from where we are moored between Petit Rameau and Petit Bateau busy with sea turtles and rays.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHZJxK4QWt8LCfdjOYNXr4JepcNvZHT24Y1F2WIX1lNWArdszWZxjQt4jUZCryLOW0v9nFgjxvWI1W_6Gxn8XgrnEgfeX7eBba4vAn1u9sDHS3FZHmdhYpvFukG2xJOGV_MDchggyYro/s1600/P1080606.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHZJxK4QWt8LCfdjOYNXr4JepcNvZHT24Y1F2WIX1lNWArdszWZxjQt4jUZCryLOW0v9nFgjxvWI1W_6Gxn8XgrnEgfeX7eBba4vAn1u9sDHS3FZHmdhYpvFukG2xJOGV_MDchggyYro/s320/P1080606.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Much current runs between these two islands. We hung on to the dinghy painter when swimming off the boat to keep from getting swept away in the current.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrTAfkw96kjiCrwsPzGtnFLVCzKd61ip7QXCXRVkSZoYIr3qIdRQt-63WwQzsmVZMXf_TL5ZGYmxjJKGWCbHpTRZ5o-_Rm4KywegieJhoKdIWNhmjVIUmRIcXRY3uE6picN7IOY_Pwiac/s1600/P1080634.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrTAfkw96kjiCrwsPzGtnFLVCzKd61ip7QXCXRVkSZoYIr3qIdRQt-63WwQzsmVZMXf_TL5ZGYmxjJKGWCbHpTRZ5o-_Rm4KywegieJhoKdIWNhmjVIUmRIcXRY3uE6picN7IOY_Pwiac/s320/P1080634.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Petit Rameau overlooking the eastern reef and turtle sanctuary.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieApwyHkF66HpU0moJQoTCJeAknC0AEhN3E3s-Nx1hul7veRbn9NXkh8WLb_8aT39K82a-yOwFiuVAiw-DScJ0UEWV1_spg7zKVbjmLyZCZxd-vcPf4NJYLcX_pxMOnEB5nHl7-_YoAQY/s1600/P1080632.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieApwyHkF66HpU0moJQoTCJeAknC0AEhN3E3s-Nx1hul7veRbn9NXkh8WLb_8aT39K82a-yOwFiuVAiw-DScJ0UEWV1_spg7zKVbjmLyZCZxd-vcPf4NJYLcX_pxMOnEB5nHl7-_YoAQY/s320/P1080632.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peak of Petit Rameau, Tobago Cays.</td></tr>
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<h3>
Bequia</h3>
Pronounced bek-wee, the second largest island of the Grenadines is most definitely one of our overall favorite of the entire Caribbean. Admiralty Bay, the main anchorage, is a large western-facing bay with a ferry terminal, Port Elizabeth town center, water front stone walk, and stretches of gorgeous beaches. We were fortunate to set the hook here for 10 days last February as well as another week in December.<br />
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The sail from Tobago Cays to Bequia was robust (and some of our stomachs protested a bit). Winds were up in the high teens and low twenties and from slightly north of east (as usual). In this part of the Caribbean, sailing north means sailing to Windward (hence "Windward Islands"). Therefore, not only are you sailing quite high, but in the open water between islands, you are plowing into pretty good ocean swell. This was the most we have pushed Argon since the major gooseneck rework and new main sail and track were added. With reefed main and 90% Jib, she performed beautifully often soaring at 7.5 kts. Our confidence in the boat is returning and this was a great passage to push that forward.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2vyT-M-5UTzeSNoMKia3BlxeNfkVwGf9GE5SlzFA7rIKmWNIr8wfnXdIeAkB7hZRofnCpYVCtNP5UPdo_gg4ffqMdVzHJC0Knf5ZIwMLMC3P2DPy9N0hcpJfUszFoOzJOC9ib3BL-k0/s1600/00100lrPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191207094654362_COVER%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2vyT-M-5UTzeSNoMKia3BlxeNfkVwGf9GE5SlzFA7rIKmWNIr8wfnXdIeAkB7hZRofnCpYVCtNP5UPdo_gg4ffqMdVzHJC0Knf5ZIwMLMC3P2DPy9N0hcpJfUszFoOzJOC9ib3BL-k0/s400/00100lrPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191207094654362_COVER%257E2.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 25nm sail from Tobago Cays to Bequia was a bit challenging in 20+ kt easterly winds and 6 foot seas. We were close haul the entire way but able to reach the southwestern tip of of the island in less than 4 hours and in one tack. </td></tr>
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<h3>
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<h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALFRcttL31I3cAbMmFICik3PzjzwIV-P6Vrfxj4VN0n_yARad7NPD65Ch7-_34Rq4OoM9qv31X8ohN6Qs85b5o0C289PRoDcwEE-RrldMXSnt-pDJ2ftCg9ZCFZ0VAz4E9Gp9oPwd-jI/s1600/IMG_20191211_114512%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALFRcttL31I3cAbMmFICik3PzjzwIV-P6Vrfxj4VN0n_yARad7NPD65Ch7-_34Rq4OoM9qv31X8ohN6Qs85b5o0C289PRoDcwEE-RrldMXSnt-pDJ2ftCg9ZCFZ0VAz4E9Gp9oPwd-jI/s400/IMG_20191211_114512%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christian and Brittany on the sea walk from the town center to Prince Margaret Beach.</td></tr>
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<h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3FY6OyxexJcyU8JKEIvQSxBox2aGE1uOLsnIUs7buaXXYjctxzk5FWAiV61Pl15FH__dswD3yg2kgu8N3bK6okDbuDqQCejZPAGbMUc3JrgErlceXvFOs8PqhbFAXkqr7SlCk85NbcA/s1600/IMG_20191209_160923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3FY6OyxexJcyU8JKEIvQSxBox2aGE1uOLsnIUs7buaXXYjctxzk5FWAiV61Pl15FH__dswD3yg2kgu8N3bK6okDbuDqQCejZPAGbMUc3JrgErlceXvFOs8PqhbFAXkqr7SlCk85NbcA/s400/IMG_20191209_160923.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View overlooking the eastern coast during a walk across the island.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTXYdndlh9UvReirzw7-eN2uoikcOQOdSngShSQcuLnnJomtrmHDtR4rycNOViQT4ffvRblrLjoarDyuKvf_-qjbqywDblHd7rAwtGj58S3F00zKydYcjAiM-SzIUTH3tnUhlYejxRvYw/s1600/IMG_20191211_142400%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTXYdndlh9UvReirzw7-eN2uoikcOQOdSngShSQcuLnnJomtrmHDtR4rycNOViQT4ffvRblrLjoarDyuKvf_-qjbqywDblHd7rAwtGj58S3F00zKydYcjAiM-SzIUTH3tnUhlYejxRvYw/s400/IMG_20191211_142400%257E2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Koko (a waiter at Jack's Beach Bar) jumped in the water and collected West Indian Sea Eggs (aka White Sea Urchins) from the shallows to toss them out to deeper water so beach goers would not inadvertently step on them. Koko also broke a few open for some urchin sashimi. It was pretty yummy. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BXSpH87KtuBV0P80N-o38083m10JmUjsv-rQrN41zbWazQ_LQbsQ87yWxdSc1aqLkLibFplFSAy2rPOZNyMsdbEn6rzP2L2IDY7GCHt76ePz_KVPsAkXfxeTVDy2OsIFlwtt1Zgyms8/s1600/FB_IMG_1576117085213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BXSpH87KtuBV0P80N-o38083m10JmUjsv-rQrN41zbWazQ_LQbsQ87yWxdSc1aqLkLibFplFSAy2rPOZNyMsdbEn6rzP2L2IDY7GCHt76ePz_KVPsAkXfxeTVDy2OsIFlwtt1Zgyms8/s320/FB_IMG_1576117085213.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Although spiny, white urchins can be held carefully.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuJYAyrmZHahmBKa3eRzB02lw8v0oiR9YIrLVy0YR6nc3rhpp30U11EKNbQrO_3-ShUBMFkbxVBZ98NhuKSk3zYvaAA4fgPsWis1t69B4xo2H1-qzBKY2eHGIRSGtkw2R8Z1bBkD2KPMw/s1600/IMG_20191211_152658%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuJYAyrmZHahmBKa3eRzB02lw8v0oiR9YIrLVy0YR6nc3rhpp30U11EKNbQrO_3-ShUBMFkbxVBZ98NhuKSk3zYvaAA4fgPsWis1t69B4xo2H1-qzBKY2eHGIRSGtkw2R8Z1bBkD2KPMw/s400/IMG_20191211_152658%257E2.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Island dogs abound in Bequia, like on most Caribbean islands. Bob made friends with several.</td></tr>
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<h3>
Mundane Boat Projects</h3>
After the many weeks in Grenada heavily occupied with major boat projects, Bob was relieved to find himself occupied with relatively basic boat chores. A dock line needed splicing and a couple of soft shackles weaved; we scrubbed Argon's waterline and the bottom of the dinghy. Water was delivered to us in the anchorage to top off the tanks and a bit of provisioning was accomplished. Another adjustment was made to the sail cover by a local canvas shop. The most major project all week was replacing a windlass switch.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHAnKblIHt6B7Ga_uzvRIqWo81WAph2BzfD2EmxatwJ-YjS6nNb4Rxg4MOMP23Owk_D38W_gVpB6qwrls_Q7uSLq8CVnI1LrF27zn_I-XU28gVu8R9_I5bgHjC2KtTs6_sfnO2OZQ6OT8/s1600/IMG_20191208_074316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHAnKblIHt6B7Ga_uzvRIqWo81WAph2BzfD2EmxatwJ-YjS6nNb4Rxg4MOMP23Owk_D38W_gVpB6qwrls_Q7uSLq8CVnI1LrF27zn_I-XU28gVu8R9_I5bgHjC2KtTs6_sfnO2OZQ6OT8/s400/IMG_20191208_074316.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water delivery while at anchor.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Farewell to Christian &Brittany and the Grenadines</h3>
As our time in the Grenadines comes to a close, so does our time with the kids. After checking Christian and Brittany off our crew manifesto with customs and immigration, they will hop a ferry to Saint Vincent and fly back to the states. Bob and I can enjoy Bequia for a couple of more days before setting sail for Saint Vincent and beyond.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ0vPOpK5SqQsKZfN4IcjCvhsYvsV9Pgcbn1c8h8re2P-4_tGN7XLSRuxewJF_6j6ItXbyicBG3DmhUx8FxN7_rywMvDx7gaOW_RZ-3-u5cYqfdaiF0HCbGFRwsPOFAENceDTnzuTCNgE/s1600/IMG_20191207_161321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ0vPOpK5SqQsKZfN4IcjCvhsYvsV9Pgcbn1c8h8re2P-4_tGN7XLSRuxewJF_6j6ItXbyicBG3DmhUx8FxN7_rywMvDx7gaOW_RZ-3-u5cYqfdaiF0HCbGFRwsPOFAENceDTnzuTCNgE/s400/IMG_20191207_161321.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So happy to share our time exploring the Grenadines with Christian and Brittany!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXdOMclCIBPdW0bAJDsE2YKOciT_LC8JwwiLVDPvRncwB0OOU3wETMIGlZkM7YDe57zpHscouG1jITurfHjeXaj1rZGew1QfKdMycIyURgkNGvKTTw7a-lmjuP7qkI1nMbRijKsCpeFzs/s1600/FB_IMG_1576117025784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXdOMclCIBPdW0bAJDsE2YKOciT_LC8JwwiLVDPvRncwB0OOU3wETMIGlZkM7YDe57zpHscouG1jITurfHjeXaj1rZGew1QfKdMycIyURgkNGvKTTw7a-lmjuP7qkI1nMbRijKsCpeFzs/s320/FB_IMG_1576117025784.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And congratulations to the newly engaged couple! (Very tan now.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-68387273381496955952019-11-28T15:45:00.004-05:002019-11-29T06:43:35.204-05:00Working Day Jobs While CruisingUnlike most long distance cruisers, we have retained day jobs while sailing. The cadence of our days is a bit different from many of the other sailors around us as we plan our boat projects/maintenance, land excursions, and sailing schedule very much around work commitments and the ability to secure reliable internet.<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
<div>
<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
</div>
<br />
<h3>
What Do We Do?</h3>
<h4>
Linda: Clinical Operations and Clinical Research Scientist</h4>
When on land manages studies for investigational drugs for rare and neurological diseases in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. When cruising cannot (and does not want to) be available to the extent needed to do this work well. Therefore shifts to document writing (e.g., standard operating procedures) and document review (e.g., study protocols) related to clinical research when cruising (about 10 hours/week).<br />
<br />
<h4>
Bob: Software Engineer</h4>
Primarily hands on coding in support of the internal business processes for a corporate travel and technology management company based in Massachusetts, USA. Able to do the same type of work when living on land or a nomadic aquatic lifestyle (but decreases to 25-30 hours/week when cruising).<br />
<br />
<h3>
Typical Daily / Weekly Schedule</h3>
The pattern of our lives maintains a Monday through Friday cadence centered around day jobs, as when living on land, followed by a change of pace on the weekend. However, we enjoy more flexibility than when we are working full time on land. A typical midweek schedule is:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 432px;"><colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 3037; mso-width-source: userset; width: 67pt;" width="89"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 11690; mso-width-source: userset; width: 257pt;" width="343"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="height: 15.75pt; width: 67pt;" width="89">5:15</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Alarm goes off,
perhaps a snooze or two.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="42" style="height: 31.5pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="42" style="border-top: none; height: 31.5pt;">5:45</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Bob
is working. Linda makes coffee and takes in the sunrise from the cockpit; reads.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="42" style="height: 31.5pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="42" style="border-top: none; height: 31.5pt;">7:30</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Linda
goes for a long exercise swim (if anchorage is safe). Bob continues working. Both bathe off transom followed by a quick cockpit freshwater rinse.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="border-top: none; height: 15.75pt;">9:00</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Linda
begins working. Bob continues working.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="border-top: none; height: 15.75pt;">11:00</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Bob
does some boat projects.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="63" style="height: 47.25pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="63" style="border-top: none; height: 47.25pt;"></td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Linda
jumps in the dinghy and goes ashore; walks to a bus stop, finds a couple of
markets, buys only what can be comfortably carried back.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="63" style="height: 47.25pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="63" style="border-top: none; height: 47.25pt;">14:00</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Both
jump in the water to cool off, scrub the bottom of the dinghy or water line
of Argon while in the water.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="84" style="height: 63.0pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="84" style="border-top: none; height: 63.0pt;">15:00</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Dinghy
back ashore to work somewhere that laptops can be powered (so we do not
drain Argon's batteries too much) and with free WiFi (to ease off on our usage of
paid data).</td>
</tr>
<tr height="84" style="height: 63.0pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="84" style="border-top: none; height: 63.0pt;"></td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">While access to free WiFi may update apps, download podcasts, books, videos, do life logistics on line
(personal emails, studying weather and where to sail to next, reading
articles).</td>
</tr>
<tr height="42" style="height: 31.5pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="42" style="border-top: none; height: 31.5pt;">17:00</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Dinghy
back to Argon. Do some boat tinkering. Cook dinner.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="42" style="height: 31.5pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="42" style="border-top: none; height: 31.5pt;">19:00</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Final
swim off transom to cool off. Relax in the cockpit.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="42" style="height: 31.5pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="42" style="border-top: none; height: 31.5pt;">20:00</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Last check back in to work. In
bed reading, listening to a podcast, or watching a downloaded video.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="border-top: none; height: 15.75pt;">21:00</td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none; border-top: none; width: 257pt;" width="343">Usually
asleep.</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Of course the above is just an example. There are all sorts of permutations including sometimes getting on to land for part of a day to hike or explore, but that is normally reserved for the weekend. Or a significant boat issue may need attention. And, when we are actually sailing, there is time to prep the boat to weigh anchor, then perhaps several hours or most of a day or more actually sailing to the next harbor or island which is sometimes done midweek depending on work commitments. If the new island is in a different country there is quite a bit of added time to check out of customs & immigration of the departing country, and then check in to the new country. <br />
<br />
Once re-anchored, there is a myriad of small items to attend to that have become quite routine including organizing lines, covering the main sail, deploying the dinghy from the davits, snorkeling on the anchor to check the hold, setting up the forward hatch awning, monitoring the swing on the anchor (and re-setting if needed). And, critical for our day jobs, confirming data / reception and connecting to WiFi (see below) so we can get back to work.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Ultimate in Open Office Design and Flexible Workspace</h3>
Argon is mostly at anchor while we are cruising and we spend much of our workday on board. However, we regularly get to shore seeking free WiFi and to couple working with some land errands, or just for a change of scenery.<br />
<br />
Below are photos of some of the places we set up shop for our day jobs while cruising.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczEGi_VZ3BSb9GZyTbYCsI59Kp2slIiM85eD1_0iJwMCLiOK5pE9GLaH-bKoQZVeqU8ueBG2NZu1CrcQDYW1yJ3LHRIaH1gfhV32HnSMoUZ-irtlFDUlcqpQkDuFhGV5tNi1OXjPzQo0/s1600/20181129_091634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczEGi_VZ3BSb9GZyTbYCsI59Kp2slIiM85eD1_0iJwMCLiOK5pE9GLaH-bKoQZVeqU8ueBG2NZu1CrcQDYW1yJ3LHRIaH1gfhV32HnSMoUZ-irtlFDUlcqpQkDuFhGV5tNi1OXjPzQo0/s400/20181129_091634.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda's favorite workspace: Argon's cockpit in a breezy, beautiful harbor while at anchor.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMfROM45LQOYzBaniDUyBvQb2jwra5-SuS-MLd2frylVjuEaF6OtehOnGMBz4OwWr-OHxq8wjs2eqzHyNE3ZUwW__RamMSW21IQaR8HjwgwZBc-fZVngtyxaqT5XFsZokgnkoDQcNvaJM/s1600/P1080466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMfROM45LQOYzBaniDUyBvQb2jwra5-SuS-MLd2frylVjuEaF6OtehOnGMBz4OwWr-OHxq8wjs2eqzHyNE3ZUwW__RamMSW21IQaR8HjwgwZBc-fZVngtyxaqT5XFsZokgnkoDQcNvaJM/s400/P1080466.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most common workspace: On board Argon in the salon.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkX9y6FMUAckgVzV6x7zH0Tn0YgRo3kzT1-BgxqUl8c6eKsQUnppzfMQcoTkoovGNPKZ_Y5cW3Bq-FIp5-Xx4v5XJEdqgYiSOo3InzHvfRHFmzW2Q3OUDSgd7UHR4C-BoH299c5ArzdhM/s1600/IMG_20191128_161633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkX9y6FMUAckgVzV6x7zH0Tn0YgRo3kzT1-BgxqUl8c6eKsQUnppzfMQcoTkoovGNPKZ_Y5cW3Bq-FIp5-Xx4v5XJEdqgYiSOo3InzHvfRHFmzW2Q3OUDSgd7UHR4C-BoH299c5ArzdhM/s400/IMG_20191128_161633.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Although working at home (on board Argon) is often easiest, it can be difficult to stay comfortable. Temperatures in the salon are often in the high 80's or low 90's. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbJuxiX38vI24tVW3ukS_iKB26HGAdI6LHIzAnigGohZI6UIM-vH0XQpmobH4TVdKsNyJ_VaCO-AXeMvmUWZ5p-WnRgqnmCsJbt70mNT0rOyuxNrSqnSOW-d7UqhlGdpEmugFqyW-nmw/s1600/IMG_20191120_115939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbJuxiX38vI24tVW3ukS_iKB26HGAdI6LHIzAnigGohZI6UIM-vH0XQpmobH4TVdKsNyJ_VaCO-AXeMvmUWZ5p-WnRgqnmCsJbt70mNT0rOyuxNrSqnSOW-d7UqhlGdpEmugFqyW-nmw/s400/IMG_20191120_115939.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This on shore workspace has everything: Breezy restaurant with access to power, free WiFi, cool beverages and feathery company (perhaps he's someone's dinner).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvG6L7mTka-xE-wjs7rauQV67Tl8QZ5T5S6cKmRh5ulhZHI57zBPIOHz_GEGKbJ8MaJ4jAbDn8pIizYOydWfQt9WPmKdIZ0QoSZt84vf9kpoIo_OMmAtc2Mmrx4P69K7CuMswlee9fm94/s1600/IMG_20191121_140732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvG6L7mTka-xE-wjs7rauQV67Tl8QZ5T5S6cKmRh5ulhZHI57zBPIOHz_GEGKbJ8MaJ4jAbDn8pIizYOydWfQt9WPmKdIZ0QoSZt84vf9kpoIo_OMmAtc2Mmrx4P69K7CuMswlee9fm94/s400/IMG_20191121_140732.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finding shelter from a downpour. (Bob is on a teleconference.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6_0GNYaUJXc5eRMJQnJbfHxWWmKWjcQU85M2nLNEnuc-SQpD9jGv9NUczjTE0z-XVRfrVfvd5zEsBxRW44QM78bkeQGwonRsLaXi4eUdosdB7RV0oLwp9ow_9__6GJHsuaG5MA5t7LuY/s1600/IMG_20191121_122035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6_0GNYaUJXc5eRMJQnJbfHxWWmKWjcQU85M2nLNEnuc-SQpD9jGv9NUczjTE0z-XVRfrVfvd5zEsBxRW44QM78bkeQGwonRsLaXi4eUdosdB7RV0oLwp9ow_9__6GJHsuaG5MA5t7LuY/s400/IMG_20191121_122035.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modern coffee shop with not only power, WiFi and great lattes, but also the rare air conditioning!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpatI1L1RWyWEjc9AHc-0N-HTlQIRcUDmBQCV-U7xpPembw4P69IDHCmCMN_FjtMP6n-lwFbgZVFJWy7NbCkznUn0Yo9O1_tbAuweUheF-dMiO93rnIRYk04y4L7tK4JeKedfQ7kNy0g/s1600/20191111_115120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpatI1L1RWyWEjc9AHc-0N-HTlQIRcUDmBQCV-U7xpPembw4P69IDHCmCMN_FjtMP6n-lwFbgZVFJWy7NbCkznUn0Yo9O1_tbAuweUheF-dMiO93rnIRYk04y4L7tK4JeKedfQ7kNy0g/s400/20191111_115120.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiki Bar restaurant Prickly Bay, Grenada. Lots of power outlets but non-ideal due to music playing and/or TV on.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGnE2-SR94PnpiZTCZesVQHQHb_6R1772jVLHxCAkOFhTomzVj0wNlENmM431eMDqmVeMe7-Pdpm26LUfsyRUMPjZcyTfmnPqWMnJGDmK-cUk1RE1fbrdRSFmVvUtsvEtJnghfr6HDHI/s1600/P1030763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGnE2-SR94PnpiZTCZesVQHQHb_6R1772jVLHxCAkOFhTomzVj0wNlENmM431eMDqmVeMe7-Pdpm26LUfsyRUMPjZcyTfmnPqWMnJGDmK-cUk1RE1fbrdRSFmVvUtsvEtJnghfr6HDHI/s400/P1030763.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bermuda. Another great find: comfort, power outlets, WiFi, air conditioning and quiet!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGMQAYuhsOF_4dc7ldT3LWloA9U2HSrzLxYUxowA1BJ_RKyOx6ild2vRYtvkc_n6uabdi1ylOz2LLDUvsyHJ8_uwKj1DmA6kR-yesfW-24zp96koY6f7FWkBh5O7shnVRM8HNJ7YJT54/s1600/20191111_060830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGMQAYuhsOF_4dc7ldT3LWloA9U2HSrzLxYUxowA1BJ_RKyOx6ild2vRYtvkc_n6uabdi1ylOz2LLDUvsyHJ8_uwKj1DmA6kR-yesfW-24zp96koY6f7FWkBh5O7shnVRM8HNJ7YJT54/s400/20191111_060830.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the cockpit of Argon early in the morning, Grenada.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTAe7n8pJLpTXVFSvOrJN1fKMfXt2r0ib7KbM_9CTB4thKo48Et6yknBDJIk2q8tjqgvs6SXZZs4vWYenPNr5KyTN50QaGB1gWmjYBle2aDADADQqkSTry4SY8wPViHl3QbuZ0_mQlhtc/s1600/20190212_075639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTAe7n8pJLpTXVFSvOrJN1fKMfXt2r0ib7KbM_9CTB4thKo48Et6yknBDJIk2q8tjqgvs6SXZZs4vWYenPNr5KyTN50QaGB1gWmjYBle2aDADADQqkSTry4SY8wPViHl3QbuZ0_mQlhtc/s400/20190212_075639.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Porch in St. Lucia with a lovely vista.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHYnMfbS5nru_wMxldoLPOaUfZ34hoWrfD1eJQeNUYC8uCgEytrAyrUJv_NY3bj1mcl6ZtaGCbL9Ml6T5Bgwq1UcWxy0pyngQPX2q9fENFU3mssZ2krPTzVQFdTWZXz67IKd02Qyx4LuM/s1600/upload_-1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="1023" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHYnMfbS5nru_wMxldoLPOaUfZ34hoWrfD1eJQeNUYC8uCgEytrAyrUJv_NY3bj1mcl6ZtaGCbL9Ml6T5Bgwq1UcWxy0pyngQPX2q9fENFU3mssZ2krPTzVQFdTWZXz67IKd02Qyx4LuM/s400/upload_-1" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corner office on the Dutch island of Saba.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFGyxF1W8dbq7PASnRCJK9wJZUADnRQ17fLW90b2Hgm4wr3OjjOZL-toIZbn1Tz49nc1q2vj8aVr0ludr6WQtwdaCsbFR95bQuCzWuZRe511gSFgzBhvCmFZQ9GAoSD7Q3kTgCEFMt18/s1600/upload_-1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="1023" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFGyxF1W8dbq7PASnRCJK9wJZUADnRQ17fLW90b2Hgm4wr3OjjOZL-toIZbn1Tz49nc1q2vj8aVr0ludr6WQtwdaCsbFR95bQuCzWuZRe511gSFgzBhvCmFZQ9GAoSD7Q3kTgCEFMt18/s400/upload_-1" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At anchor somewhere in the US Virgin Islands.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFeusnM5Xf-I2fqLik4aiCOiewzpQ2DoAVSc25SHbvMSR8ug7n4_BryhkH4B3hXXMf7F-z5HuJsdT-bU_M6kldzLjX4qgaGlPJY71-aZ_2F6IjW2Y20geTiMU67slsWZvqefP5b0qsyw/s1600/20170307_085057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFeusnM5Xf-I2fqLik4aiCOiewzpQ2DoAVSc25SHbvMSR8ug7n4_BryhkH4B3hXXMf7F-z5HuJsdT-bU_M6kldzLjX4qgaGlPJY71-aZ_2F6IjW2Y20geTiMU67slsWZvqefP5b0qsyw/s400/20170307_085057.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turks and Caicos.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZfSeGDWXoEoIeFOJa8t9lR0PB_xVoFsGMb5LPMl63tJaE0rgcnSMPw38B4BcBKIKLpKKDTmKWAocuYDHBBokV4bz555WvTJ6J0vrucYWB9G2nk3vaW5rlKwWFcxHn3BVcTw-AIiKSaE/s1600/20170315_115747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZfSeGDWXoEoIeFOJa8t9lR0PB_xVoFsGMb5LPMl63tJaE0rgcnSMPw38B4BcBKIKLpKKDTmKWAocuYDHBBokV4bz555WvTJ6J0vrucYWB9G2nk3vaW5rlKwWFcxHn3BVcTw-AIiKSaE/s400/20170315_115747.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turks and Caicos. Overcast to allow Bob to barely see his screen.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSoQS8z_lY2XbCzuTNX-mLPPXcbgV61hDxEnwIHC8-hXH7VaeeAE481OeykR7NTsEXp8GvXTzUwqe5OsJPc1tdh4n5EJko53CPIkyo0chFcIyDDDD9d9UaKSsyjV01FrGUBOZNhumdxic/s1600/upload_-1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSoQS8z_lY2XbCzuTNX-mLPPXcbgV61hDxEnwIHC8-hXH7VaeeAE481OeykR7NTsEXp8GvXTzUwqe5OsJPc1tdh4n5EJko53CPIkyo0chFcIyDDDD9d9UaKSsyjV01FrGUBOZNhumdxic/s400/upload_-1" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dominica. Another beautiful view.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<h3>
Satiating a Voracious Appetite for Data</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
Our appetite for data is huge compared to any other cruiser we have encountered. We chow down 1-1.5G/day mostly due to our day jobs. Needing this generous amount of data, as well as reliable connectivity daily, have been major challenges. Many people will offer advice related various methods but we usually find out that the thresholds for data usage are way too low for our needs. During our first extended cruise (2016-2017) we learned that WiFi options in anchorages (as well as on shore) are massively unreliable causing tremendous stress as we needed connectivity regularly to deliver on work commitments. We made many data-related mistakes and spent an average of nearly $500/month! <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2017/02/data-while-cruising.html" target="_blank">A prior blog post</a> outlines our approach and many learnings.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYYNZDL8ORMVtQjLTviqyjlcu701IX385gK7Qa6Uzt-LxCsAUjGIj00tAXlMmJdFuWPUog09d1QGZWewt2hLZWovGtSrCbyDANdlmrstbLE8C6l8vpVhK1jPBSYc_uFjkGiB5qZVXoRc/s1600/P1070005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYYNZDL8ORMVtQjLTviqyjlcu701IX385gK7Qa6Uzt-LxCsAUjGIj00tAXlMmJdFuWPUog09d1QGZWewt2hLZWovGtSrCbyDANdlmrstbLE8C6l8vpVhK1jPBSYc_uFjkGiB5qZVXoRc/s400/P1070005.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shroud Cay Exumas, Bahamas back in 2017 during our first cruise. To my dismay, we stayed only a few hours because we had no data and Bob needed to get back on line for work. There were too many times that we skipped over an interesting place or minimized our stay because of data issues.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Our second extended journey <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/08/data-tips-again.html" target="_blank">2018-2019 brought improvements all around</a> including decreasing our spend to about $300/month. Our main strategy was an unlocked cell phone (separate from our two regular personal phones) with stripped down apps (to avoid any inadvertent data usage). Then securing local data SIM cards from the current country. Some key challenges included:<br />
<ul>
<li>Sometimes having much difficulty finding or getting to where local SIMs could be purchased (would require a long and expensive cab ride and/or the store had scant business hours, especially on smaller islands)</li>
<li>Figuring out how (or remembering to) top off balances before the data ran out (especially difficult in some of the French islands where all info/apps were only in the local language)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiywujfywtvDiw1KosjmAXttJUQ1mqnpxz5DCa6t9QfGJZsS9eSOVJbNONTmDIT5yloPyri9LiIrykE5Ea_NEjkoLnSgB-DRebtCWV6F9FcJl6jHgm1PmGPwUitXNVhQoW2p0_s4NSCoT8/s1600/20191128_150531.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiywujfywtvDiw1KosjmAXttJUQ1mqnpxz5DCa6t9QfGJZsS9eSOVJbNONTmDIT5yloPyri9LiIrykE5Ea_NEjkoLnSgB-DRebtCWV6F9FcJl6jHgm1PmGPwUitXNVhQoW2p0_s4NSCoT8/s400/20191128_150531.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of our collection of local SIM cards: Chippy (St. Martin and Saba), Orange (Martinique,
Guadeloupe, Les Saintes, Marie Gallante), French Digicel (Guadeloupe but
crazy expensive; Orange is better) and Dominican Digicel. We also have
SIMs for Flow (Antigua) and BTC (Bahamas).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Now at the front end of our third extended cruise, we think we've got things figured out. Fingers crossed anyway. Our approach is to combine the local data SIM card method with Google Fi leveraging 4 cell phones now:<br />
<ul>
<li>Bob's personal and Linda's personal (roaming off of course, and settings set to no automatic updates when connected to WiFi... as our WiFi is usually metered)</li>
<li>Unlocked stripped down with GoogleFi</li>
<li>Unlocked stripped down with local data SIM card - for both data and local phone calls</li>
</ul>
Having two cell phones to use as hot spots (local SIM and GoogleFi) also allows me to take one with me when I venture to shore while Bob remains aboard. This affords the luxury of connectivity as I do errands or go on land excursions. <br />
<ul>
</ul>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1QbwJyyDMEeyD5Jt16-xgqmhzWljqHHmKUJ9V-xQEYP9NCcpJpq1YV_rT7BXldPadLwR23tZvGJoiRi0K0nOQGlduKDyhx9dtsAY5o3qfaX3grt4PP-xyGFlzvfRq5vayW6XBChWEWE/s1600/P1080476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1QbwJyyDMEeyD5Jt16-xgqmhzWljqHHmKUJ9V-xQEYP9NCcpJpq1YV_rT7BXldPadLwR23tZvGJoiRi0K0nOQGlduKDyhx9dtsAY5o3qfaX3grt4PP-xyGFlzvfRq5vayW6XBChWEWE/s400/P1080476.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four unlocked Androids: 2 are our personal phones, the other 2 are for local SIM cards and GoogleFi to serve as hot spots.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
GoogleFi is a great option but only up to 15G in a month, then it's less attractive due to the cost:<br />
<ul>
<li>$10/G up to 6G, then free up to 15G. Once 15G is reached, the data speed is slowed waaayyyyy down (unusable for our needs) and it is back to $10/G. </li>
</ul>
With our voracious data appetite (35-40G/month), GoogleFi would be well over $300/month. Therefore we aim to keep the GoogleFi data usage to 15G/month with the remaining data from SIM cards and on-shore free WiFi. And GoogleFi has worked well so far but we have only been in Grenada... let's see if it is as reliable as we make our way up the Caribbean chain. A back-up option (or two) is prudent and will surely be needed at some point.<br />
<br />
The cost of data through the local SIM cards varies widely from country to country anywhere from $3-$15/G but will often be less expensive than the cost post 15G through GoogleFi, and will provide a back-up method. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfUjg3OlVfODxTDH0pv_jU3yBw-xSo_JDiYSglWwiZrR93yP_1KVP-VyOaSdo3BbRBEp7d1Q-gJWdLhGDfcNDGNCVFFvWhjaFWqPLl5c69RXtNmkjBkqpL_6OgIuGZyfYJgdRZJzBXiU/s1600/20191128_150316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfUjg3OlVfODxTDH0pv_jU3yBw-xSo_JDiYSglWwiZrR93yP_1KVP-VyOaSdo3BbRBEp7d1Q-gJWdLhGDfcNDGNCVFFvWhjaFWqPLl5c69RXtNmkjBkqpL_6OgIuGZyfYJgdRZJzBXiU/s400/20191128_150316.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is one of our cheap Androids with a Digicel and a Flow card.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Thus our monthly data usage and spend is likely to play out as follows:<br />
<ul>
<li>15G through GoogleFi at $90 (includes direct data cost plus fees)</li>
<li>10G through local data SIM card at $30-$150</li>
<li>remaining 10-20G onshore free WiFi </li>
</ul>
We very much hope to <i><b>decrease our average data spend to $150/month</b>!!</i> Status report in six months.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Flexibility and Supportive Employers are Paramount</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
Linda: I converted to an <a href="http://perryclinicaloperations.com/" target="_blank">independent consultant</a> in my field of clinical trials and clinical research mid 2017 with the objective of flexing up my work when in land-life mode, and throttling back when we are cruising. It is working out wonderfully thus far. When cruising I work about 10 hours/week on document writing that, while less interesting perhaps, affords much flexibility requiring minimal scheduled meetings/telecons and I can mostly make my own schedule. The more interesting assignments will resume (along with heavier hours) when back on land. <br />
<br />
Bob: Before our first trip to the Caribbean back in 2016, Bob told his boss over dinner one night: <i>"Linda wants to sail to the Caribbean. I can either go with her, or I have to move in with you"</i>. That settled it. Bob switched from full-time salaried, to full-time hourly to allow flexing down of hours while traveling (a bit), gave up health insurance and paid time off and has remained in this status with his employer ever since. Bob works 25-30 hours/week while cruising, and full time when on land. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: We both must buy health insurance privately which is an important financial consideration.</span><br />
<br />
Both: We take our work very seriously and do our best to not leave our work colleagues waiting on us for anything. We are able to be very productive, and yes, it does cut into the <i>fun </i>part of cruising a bit, but it also makes this wonderful cruising lifestyle possible.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUeMH6p8_MtXADzYseAZljN65lNZFpczywhSpckTLuMWpSJ_E8EvhSLEWg7LI6sVBNtmiC36vHZqo45yMGfZID_dVBcU6ZBDdu3-rzcaIwWHU8itSwpZfujntaUadtBTEFHCQ1_wiNHyw/s1600/IMG_20191114_172634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUeMH6p8_MtXADzYseAZljN65lNZFpczywhSpckTLuMWpSJ_E8EvhSLEWg7LI6sVBNtmiC36vHZqo45yMGfZID_dVBcU6ZBDdu3-rzcaIwWHU8itSwpZfujntaUadtBTEFHCQ1_wiNHyw/s400/IMG_20191114_172634.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The perfect combination of work, adventure and pleasure.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
</h3>
Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-63466442950511110332019-11-24T15:36:00.000-05:002019-11-24T19:41:29.344-05:00Go Up! A Bit More on GrenadaAdvice for cruisers, or other travelers, looking to detect the essence of cultures on these islands: go up, venture in.<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
<div>
<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
</div>
<br />
It is easy and comfortable to stay in the cruising neighborhoods of the islands. Semi-manicured marinas and beach fronts with pruned palm trees, restaurants with pizza and wings, activities and socials for cruisers, lots of people that look like me. And although these nooks usually have a sprinkling of culture and evidence of the complex dichotomies that come with island living, we were reminded recently how rich the experience can be when we venture beyond the surface and just walk up the hill.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Anchored Off St. George's</h3>
<br />
After anchoring in Prickly Bay for the first 9 days after launch and spending much time still working on getting Argon and ourselves ready, we weighed anchor and enjoyed a leisurely short test sail along the southern coast and over near the capital city of Grenada, St. George's.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8iW3HoPCgYJT3xTr_JWRqHtnWrLoUirCdUJ4NafmOJhqpKecOqtaZMe-UdfznmOHEx6UI4dJsyFZwbulGQQ5nwwOm5TnhGZL8JJZgTdDCxQ7pxroLUoSfjUSBwWrbf0qqBSb1yc_TOhs/s1600/IMG_20191117_121328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8iW3HoPCgYJT3xTr_JWRqHtnWrLoUirCdUJ4NafmOJhqpKecOqtaZMe-UdfznmOHEx6UI4dJsyFZwbulGQQ5nwwOm5TnhGZL8JJZgTdDCxQ7pxroLUoSfjUSBwWrbf0qqBSb1yc_TOhs/s400/IMG_20191117_121328.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple, luxurious inaugural 8nm sail in very light winds. Enjoyed seeing
dozens of turtles, a large sting ray, and even a small shark along the
way in the calm, clear waters.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBtUMAEsMQUWukTHkm88_hrzDBL7lLIqE20NLqWw-Hi0dm_46mwKLokUTf8bPgcldUDMbdX_JTKp3cE6ACCDieHJiyM_vHAXTyJkBk2DoPZsPASkIX-I8XFBhYZ7OzWXa45gnqhTw2hZc/s1600/P1080418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBtUMAEsMQUWukTHkm88_hrzDBL7lLIqE20NLqWw-Hi0dm_46mwKLokUTf8bPgcldUDMbdX_JTKp3cE6ACCDieHJiyM_vHAXTyJkBk2DoPZsPASkIX-I8XFBhYZ7OzWXa45gnqhTw2hZc/s400/P1080418.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There is an expansive anchorage area just south of the capital of St.
George's on the west coast. The holding is precarious as small rocks and dead coral are
abundant with surprisingly scant sand and mud for a secure holding. It is not uncommon to have to try a few times to get a good set in this area.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Urban Hike</h3>
<br />
After enjoying the <a href="http://grenadahash.com/" target="_blank">Hash </a>through a beautiful, rugged, hilly (and muddy) 3 mile hike on the eastern coast recently, Bob proposed we do an <i>urban hike.</i> We had been admiring from afar the bright white pillared Parliament building perched high up above the city of St. George's and decided we would set out for a vigorous climb winding our way through back streets.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGBTERxrpR0MTpgAnnwBIYisdBl172HeQ6wlocx4CNT13c7yjvUHJAj7xsUWmrLA7xJCGbtDTLg_mq_YpLzVxHEocPeHfdXu7lDV9p4O8vMmnlOMFyHbd5OmI7tgOZUM6X6A4t5qk6HJM/s1600/20190416_190018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1600" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGBTERxrpR0MTpgAnnwBIYisdBl172HeQ6wlocx4CNT13c7yjvUHJAj7xsUWmrLA7xJCGbtDTLg_mq_YpLzVxHEocPeHfdXu7lDV9p4O8vMmnlOMFyHbd5OmI7tgOZUM6X6A4t5qk6HJM/s400/20190416_190018.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
The city of St. George's is inviting
with it's colorful facade climbing up the mountainside. Upon closer
inspection on foot, grit and hardship are evident. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc4Px_GVc4BAvrNBT7dHJNBhSI8rPyeMJOQLJctqoyZoA6sdOGX2MAayosG1xliQbWvL62kDGkyzKnlspteSyTvl7zeKtFMKMy21mYzWecA3jct48pfufzHfq95o_djOP5aJY5o1i-XMU/s1600/20190405_4427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc4Px_GVc4BAvrNBT7dHJNBhSI8rPyeMJOQLJctqoyZoA6sdOGX2MAayosG1xliQbWvL62kDGkyzKnlspteSyTvl7zeKtFMKMy21mYzWecA3jct48pfufzHfq95o_djOP5aJY5o1i-XMU/s400/20190405_4427.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hillside overlooking St. George's.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbCYWsy4WuvxuowUsu5MX2l1PZmD9SUnRBQ58OZmqsFFel7oB6dOzELDH8wjrEcOC4VJ22oMhQv5T2HCpOOweU-J_vZuyki7DUs5jkPCDyO-varrntUbcl4O3WWWzsFnH8mNUhi5j4KU/s1600/20191119_173247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbCYWsy4WuvxuowUsu5MX2l1PZmD9SUnRBQ58OZmqsFFel7oB6dOzELDH8wjrEcOC4VJ22oMhQv5T2HCpOOweU-J_vZuyki7DUs5jkPCDyO-varrntUbcl4O3WWWzsFnH8mNUhi5j4KU/s400/20191119_173247.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of St. George's from nearby the Parliament building after an invigorating walk up. The anchorage (and Argon) is to the left just out of view off the peninsula.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIGD5sYDGN9pTrJZb4u31-2hL0JFx1wBCz1UqFFQsk70F2AhMhUhReZMtwCdcPhDcJdLEe8KuhAhvzV3AeWjDnLd9v-3fdD53TkDXapawPxUFh5zsGdJfdP2t6zd6KCNJOt90ZYRvhHw/s1600/20191119_175202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIGD5sYDGN9pTrJZb4u31-2hL0JFx1wBCz1UqFFQsk70F2AhMhUhReZMtwCdcPhDcJdLEe8KuhAhvzV3AeWjDnLd9v-3fdD53TkDXapawPxUFh5zsGdJfdP2t6zd6KCNJOt90ZYRvhHw/s400/20191119_175202.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
So many interesting buildings and sites along the way. The infrastructure is good for a poor Caribbean island but extremely meager compared to standards back home. Sidewalks are rare and walking along the road takes much attention and jumping out of the way of vehicles whizzing by. We have learned to carry a flashlight when venturing out late in the day as streetlights are uncommon and the paved terrain is abundant with ditches, holes and other obstacles.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQeYQUzHvOADV3_d0qQNpB1xA6-DtGIE0Ck6Fo-2ZwVrRdZUtRHo7LNCTdiqdwp7-CO9vIMsw83n-w2C81RoPjXN0jPb0D4fIA4OI8_JkGZQg0_cedx8MBBz65CBM3Q3o7MD5SUszbDs/s1600/IMG_20191122_082055%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQeYQUzHvOADV3_d0qQNpB1xA6-DtGIE0Ck6Fo-2ZwVrRdZUtRHo7LNCTdiqdwp7-CO9vIMsw83n-w2C81RoPjXN0jPb0D4fIA4OI8_JkGZQg0_cedx8MBBz65CBM3Q3o7MD5SUszbDs/s400/IMG_20191122_082055%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flowers and produce are commonly sold on the street. My favorites include christophine (aka chayote), papaya, avocado, mango, potatoes and passion fruit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgloa3QLx-ted9sLElZo0LPCsaQTuaQI7bbhJ4_OfEuOC7sg9By9mlyJ3LDxpc7S2LLsKsgX6GYsH4Kl2s8Qi1v4V5dHskgMOLAGFzzU7Qb9HMsd1oim_57JWE0ArCv4KUCmwTm_HcRoIA/s1600/IMG_20191122_082218%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgloa3QLx-ted9sLElZo0LPCsaQTuaQI7bbhJ4_OfEuOC7sg9By9mlyJ3LDxpc7S2LLsKsgX6GYsH4Kl2s8Qi1v4V5dHskgMOLAGFzzU7Qb9HMsd1oim_57JWE0ArCv4KUCmwTm_HcRoIA/s400/IMG_20191122_082218%257E3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More street vendors.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbN_UAD30wLDBMk8zHAlMTxD_3-IHDucRZ5BlYszoGGSIKEw7fzZMo63RBpSW0QVct3DdqPDkS1-YkYllX66B_FFrksnZf7CmYKIx_bg_3T5mnRokxJOwNkhef9-K1XdNYlpNxw4jbdmg/s1600/IMG_20191122_082331%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbN_UAD30wLDBMk8zHAlMTxD_3-IHDucRZ5BlYszoGGSIKEw7fzZMo63RBpSW0QVct3DdqPDkS1-YkYllX66B_FFrksnZf7CmYKIx_bg_3T5mnRokxJOwNkhef9-K1XdNYlpNxw4jbdmg/s400/IMG_20191122_082331%257E2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grenadian traffic signal in the capital of St. George's. (There are no electric traffic lights.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GvFmdPl9U0fA1iHhVFT6F7BwEg4yVGvr0t0Buj7HnNlCb9r_CKXUPZFmkmxRv2Ex486MzvLftMXshipQTGgAzZ73k6FAuPiNlhjuaOf_zSCNQg8cytDYfRh3ryqvTSfJPt89_IDOvoo/s1600/IMG_20191122_082922%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GvFmdPl9U0fA1iHhVFT6F7BwEg4yVGvr0t0Buj7HnNlCb9r_CKXUPZFmkmxRv2Ex486MzvLftMXshipQTGgAzZ73k6FAuPiNlhjuaOf_zSCNQg8cytDYfRh3ryqvTSfJPt89_IDOvoo/s400/IMG_20191122_082922%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Popular weekend street market downtown St. George's.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9mwMZqcBQeKdGyMpX-F3kEcM81AiXN2X429d6IIqqKozfhHpGvVIYFyhA1cVRknt8yV5W4yW0uwDh9abxOI7o3HRjyycM-Xn9gpwLw5qj6ZVW_eM3ZiAd2ynp7iEzycYlfcuqwXjNPTw/s1600/IMG_20191122_084137%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9mwMZqcBQeKdGyMpX-F3kEcM81AiXN2X429d6IIqqKozfhHpGvVIYFyhA1cVRknt8yV5W4yW0uwDh9abxOI7o3HRjyycM-Xn9gpwLw5qj6ZVW_eM3ZiAd2ynp7iEzycYlfcuqwXjNPTw/s400/IMG_20191122_084137%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Tending to the Tender - With Help from Patrick</h3>
While making one of the many lengthy dinghy rides in to the city from the anchorage, we noticed that the raw water cooling had restricted flow (even though the outboard was just serviced this past summer... argh!).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4uUVfmR_-4-Xo0sBPX8d7SeSUPNDe9HQoCdGysoJIML0uJMxS774-OHK2SIOALRa2QSpvKi0Ef-hIawXg0s6eyee2xp1-VRmSdDsnidMQrBUEFryAuTq7JdcFxH_fbHBGg5DxaAf8nU/s1600/IMG_20191122_132735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4uUVfmR_-4-Xo0sBPX8d7SeSUPNDe9HQoCdGysoJIML0uJMxS774-OHK2SIOALRa2QSpvKi0Ef-hIawXg0s6eyee2xp1-VRmSdDsnidMQrBUEFryAuTq7JdcFxH_fbHBGg5DxaAf8nU/s400/IMG_20191122_132735.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were no longer near the shipyard where the outboard was recently serviced. But we were able to get connected with a local mechanic, Patrick, to help with figuring out what was causing the restricted raw water flow.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn9iuHGsViqWU5dLHycZmMjF8mjYt3yatgBC4tMBJNRQUrc7D2b3k7AtqJgGqqKXniAWSRSzhtjlrHHuLKZa7ckDJ1Pv126yKKnn5xlt4rcAWool48-h7vSzeLC0z3WMGk1EGotHtz_yE/s1600/IMG_20191122_133245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn9iuHGsViqWU5dLHycZmMjF8mjYt3yatgBC4tMBJNRQUrc7D2b3k7AtqJgGqqKXniAWSRSzhtjlrHHuLKZa7ckDJ1Pv126yKKnn5xlt4rcAWool48-h7vSzeLC0z3WMGk1EGotHtz_yE/s400/IMG_20191122_133245.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Partially in a torrential downpour, Patrick and I got the outboard to his work boat. Patrick was kind enough to give me a bit of a lesson in outboard servicing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfzOphyphenhyphen54FnUhIPHAqnx63N1nFrtBXxoG4h_5GvNZU4LxUCxnCmyyo87I6ctZO8QEeZIhrbt6cd52dYUhdeiCewXPhF5Il8Y1Y4yqeOeSkPNhkfdsMPxdGBf8r0kPnYiIPYh3u9uaYHk/s1600/IMG_20191122_133603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfzOphyphenhyphen54FnUhIPHAqnx63N1nFrtBXxoG4h_5GvNZU4LxUCxnCmyyo87I6ctZO8QEeZIhrbt6cd52dYUhdeiCewXPhF5Il8Y1Y4yqeOeSkPNhkfdsMPxdGBf8r0kPnYiIPYh3u9uaYHk/s400/IMG_20191122_133603.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Replacing the impeller on a Tohatsu 6hp 4 stroke is extremely tricky (much more difficult than on our Volvo 55hp diesel). The crank shaft needs to come off (and, the more difficult part, is getting it back on).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The impeller was changed (although the original one looked good). We also inspected the thermostat which was extremely corroded (removed it - not needed with in the warm water); and cleaned out the area around in-take and outflow. The outboard ideally needs a bit more of an overhaul (including a new base gasket) which we will arrange to have done in the coming weeks further up the island chain.<br />
<h3>
Beach Bums for an Afternoon</h3>
We spend surprisingly little time hanging out at beaches while cruising. However, nearly three weeks after arriving in Grenada, we both enjoy an afternoon at Grand Anse Beach, just south of St. George's. I swam and we both indulged in an afternoon cocktail.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg42I4MgzTKUUHVnRmdYkkFg_UmY5XaruPZztgbdw_OoEADqNMIkNI3dGFSj0OlpFm7yBc3RD0PFcLmNemPLryxRqea3XxLK8yIBQXD3-ZfGwmFiP1nmvgGCEKVOKYOW1_WTYuGS9Ri5t0/s1600/00100sPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191123150300314_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg42I4MgzTKUUHVnRmdYkkFg_UmY5XaruPZztgbdw_OoEADqNMIkNI3dGFSj0OlpFm7yBc3RD0PFcLmNemPLryxRqea3XxLK8yIBQXD3-ZfGwmFiP1nmvgGCEKVOKYOW1_WTYuGS9Ri5t0/s400/00100sPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191123150300314_COVER.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Surprisingly rare beach hang out.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
And on to Carriacou, or Not....</h3>
We have been itching to start to make our way to the next island north all week but the winds have been uncharacteristically light (and often non-existent). With favorable winds finally forcasted we weighed anchor Sunday morning and, despite rain moving in, happily set sail up along the west coast. After a bit we had to fire up the motor, keeping the main up for some motor sailing, as the wind was light and on our nose when Bob heard a strange loud <i>boing</i>. It was pouring rain but we soon realized that the upper battens along the leech of the sail were hitting the back stay making a loud vibratory plucking noise and shaking the rig. We realized that the roach of the sail was jutting beyond the back stay... not good for the back stay, sail or rig. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pln4EXLxJVI4T2K-mK79awCgIhbS7uXCIVDGqi5Q94ESOkWfHdPIytdUH5bpFSii_pafMmzqQpLLi-ctlgBi7gwU7E8cNg-yMVD9CUeYywV7Yn9eWTdZmwSF8ozap-7T4306D6qP4pw/s1600/P1080448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pln4EXLxJVI4T2K-mK79awCgIhbS7uXCIVDGqi5Q94ESOkWfHdPIytdUH5bpFSii_pafMmzqQpLLi-ctlgBi7gwU7E8cNg-yMVD9CUeYywV7Yn9eWTdZmwSF8ozap-7T4306D6qP4pw/s400/P1080448.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
Pic of the over-extended roach through the bimini window in a rainstorm. Fingers crossed that the sail maker will be able to
quickly re-cut the roach of the new main sail so that we can finally,
really, no kidding this time start our journey. We were surprised not to have noticed this the prior week during the initial test sail. But we had been sailing mostly down wind and in hindsight should have headed upwind more and done several test tacks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After a quick conversation on what to do next, we agree to turn around and head back not to St.
George's, but even further to Pricky Bay near where the sail maker is
located. Ugh. Back where we began several weeks ago. But this is not a bad place to be stuck. <br />
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-83378613485200026692019-11-16T12:34:00.002-05:002019-11-17T07:40:25.367-05:00Grenada - Better the Second Time AroundWatching a dramatic daybreak cloud system approach, it dawns on me how much different our Grenadian experience is currently compared to our initial introduction this past April.<br />
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<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
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We recently returned to Grenada to <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/week-one-third-half-grenada.html" target="_blank">re-launch s/v Argon</a>
and resume cruising the Caribbean for another winter gradually
making our way north over the next seven months. Our first exposure to
Grenada (April 2019) was heavily shadowed by a crippling bought of
sciatica that caused Bob immense pain, severely limiting activities, and
greatly complicating boat life for both of us. This time around, however, our
experience and outlook is much improved.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVxwQ2xKCnvQ8rTAuh9Pk3VHDwjp2r-0G-lk7uyr5xjvOq6lvHi6aX5YE85ija7YgajhWrAejGy9H0WpTtTeQOIBtsd3d2y57Av1Q7oDfuyO6Tga5VFBfcQ7jZnkh1l_RdrsNQrU6FSE/s1600/P1080343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVxwQ2xKCnvQ8rTAuh9Pk3VHDwjp2r-0G-lk7uyr5xjvOq6lvHi6aX5YE85ija7YgajhWrAejGy9H0WpTtTeQOIBtsd3d2y57Av1Q7oDfuyO6Tga5VFBfcQ7jZnkh1l_RdrsNQrU6FSE/s400/P1080343.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perhaps surprisingly, we set an alarm for 5:15a.m. each day allowing us to take in the quiet opening of each day,
enjoy spectacular sunrises, and get an early start on our day jobs and boat projects.</td></tr>
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The major boat projects are now behind us and we can start to think about sailing and intermingling our days with land excursions and sometimes relaxation.<br />
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<h3>
Before and After</h3>
It has been an incredibly busy and productive two weeks with Argon...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdZPm0yMAjk3ES34W64W3-3IT2PXFwUsF4MKDmZygiFFgyLE05wjEd-3w41NwnJVDUkNof2TGgWL7PrgMBFHS_gy9Ex7O9qbaS4G9FwDgNz3lYAUefWWdeGFva2V9fYap6ihnAhquKEc/s1600/IMG_20191115_164527.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1179" data-original-width="1600" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdZPm0yMAjk3ES34W64W3-3IT2PXFwUsF4MKDmZygiFFgyLE05wjEd-3w41NwnJVDUkNof2TGgWL7PrgMBFHS_gy9Ex7O9qbaS4G9FwDgNz3lYAUefWWdeGFva2V9fYap6ihnAhquKEc/s400/IMG_20191115_164527.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now: Argon sitting pretty and ready to sail.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnZgn5ZxdppXEwGX4T-_LX2eKcLylM6Ne-Zd4fbpsLIqJSPro_f1iV1DmRznRduDJxe7YakGK-WqWDiAOQDfwEghbDJnB-FBSjqOzow_ovHvXzXwRXP_DwA0zdBruBAN7xx3T0-JmM_Y/s1600/IMG_20191106_064621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnZgn5ZxdppXEwGX4T-_LX2eKcLylM6Ne-Zd4fbpsLIqJSPro_f1iV1DmRznRduDJxe7YakGK-WqWDiAOQDfwEghbDJnB-FBSjqOzow_ovHvXzXwRXP_DwA0zdBruBAN7xx3T0-JmM_Y/s400/IMG_20191106_064621.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before: Ten days ago the boom still not attached, gooseneck unfinished, and oh so much still to do.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYroooiIjNLXHHtq0sLxMlnYm5WRP-1Bu9ggOmVqIRpfIJJrfxOj1GCmNMJjUQcQVxTDJempzRQnc_q7QEvYPiMseoEZ9M3KsXp2nSHEUZLz3E19UBqRWIxECjHtvrnMu2MBiEU4pQiXM/s1600/IMG_20191116_122623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYroooiIjNLXHHtq0sLxMlnYm5WRP-1Bu9ggOmVqIRpfIJJrfxOj1GCmNMJjUQcQVxTDJempzRQnc_q7QEvYPiMseoEZ9M3KsXp2nSHEUZLz3E19UBqRWIxECjHtvrnMu2MBiEU4pQiXM/s400/IMG_20191116_122623.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After: Deck today happily at anchor with all sails and lines rigged ready to go.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JU0yVIvfgJB-bt34lUyOXNcXU5rHoKeA9A1T1_ainVtXnjuo68e0cEfTN1MTc9c_XzrG2-UibIKIPHMeHIJaQrL4AH44JOXCBSpNjsVGW9HS6oLnmY4zzfQN-SRgKAtCHODdMZCo0MU/s1600/IMG_20191106_065406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JU0yVIvfgJB-bt34lUyOXNcXU5rHoKeA9A1T1_ainVtXnjuo68e0cEfTN1MTc9c_XzrG2-UibIKIPHMeHIJaQrL4AH44JOXCBSpNjsVGW9HS6oLnmY4zzfQN-SRgKAtCHODdMZCo0MU/s400/IMG_20191106_065406.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before: Salon ten days ago when we were still in the throws of inspecting, cleaning, fixing, attaching and sweating on the hard.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKl5MGl52zCxH4wEhIgYDfbOasAb0hABn3bPyorSIlJNAEg0guj6KsbMfngVxdbsvGDKq5wJ-fXCA7ic1ayTNLCTte9qcW-9p0blPJFURZ6RP-t8e2dcHXh_A2_1Su8MCkqCsmrvjKWi0/s1600/IMG_20191116_122505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKl5MGl52zCxH4wEhIgYDfbOasAb0hABn3bPyorSIlJNAEg0guj6KsbMfngVxdbsvGDKq5wJ-fXCA7ic1ayTNLCTte9qcW-9p0blPJFURZ6RP-t8e2dcHXh_A2_1Su8MCkqCsmrvjKWi0/s400/IMG_20191116_122505.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After: Salon now ready to be home again for the next many months </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HcP9-tl1kfQ4WEIcCtVTFDg8f4OE7AKDMqdnWEApRm0tdattRPRpqLnKK-DwW6kXeQZkhVHkrSTVhCF-W7hUPuOghRWVN4DnsUVvigduykpWRT5S_mVNhLmiYfhjJuBPgobPze-Aers/s1600/IMG_20191106_064554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HcP9-tl1kfQ4WEIcCtVTFDg8f4OE7AKDMqdnWEApRm0tdattRPRpqLnKK-DwW6kXeQZkhVHkrSTVhCF-W7hUPuOghRWVN4DnsUVvigduykpWRT5S_mVNhLmiYfhjJuBPgobPze-Aers/s400/IMG_20191106_064554.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before: Cockpit ten days ago with grey mildewy teak from being exposed to the heat and torential rains all summer.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghA_ee91mJ-fuLqz6d9lV_eUiWSO35HzRvjHmjsqM5RftluknMGjFTw9Q8wEPl9XE_5mM9UcJu92P4-7Z210vb3-77mpuubT0j96Vz04KBOu_XjavBnLBi4nuh_hfpPcL2VmWHcEr_UXM/s1600/IMG_20191116_122402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghA_ee91mJ-fuLqz6d9lV_eUiWSO35HzRvjHmjsqM5RftluknMGjFTw9Q8wEPl9XE_5mM9UcJu92P4-7Z210vb3-77mpuubT0j96Vz04KBOu_XjavBnLBi4nuh_hfpPcL2VmWHcEr_UXM/s400/IMG_20191116_122402.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After: Cockpit now with organized lines, clean teak, comfortable cushions and shade.</td></tr>
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<h3>
Prickly Bay</h3>
Prickly Bay, one of the several options of harbors along the southern coast of Grenada, is our initial Grenadian neighborhood. Many avoid this anchorage as it can be quite rolly compared to the other nearby choices. However, our threshold for rolliness has increased over the years. In addition, we need the easy access to the shipyard, chandlery, and other businesses as we complete remaining boat projects. Lastly, the waters here are more clear and safe for my morning swims.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGUtW5q00YbLUFWhBagkifDSrXQleSrc4mJDOsItuKhj9KX4F7eLDNqK2_ALVUTY98OVLxOODclXBn0ZktWQGfYtXj0DF2_KzB7DW9k35hDP2Iqu3NTzFEemgFFU_PcjnwkRG5vkdFAQ/s1600/IMG_20191108_142153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGUtW5q00YbLUFWhBagkifDSrXQleSrc4mJDOsItuKhj9KX4F7eLDNqK2_ALVUTY98OVLxOODclXBn0ZktWQGfYtXj0DF2_KzB7DW9k35hDP2Iqu3NTzFEemgFFU_PcjnwkRG5vkdFAQ/s400/IMG_20191108_142153.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turbulence sail loft is a short dinghy ride away from our initial anchorage. Turbulence is working on our main sail here to shorten the luff length.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwWJ3n9FifxBnBgx_U1gex3Z-v0I5F1O5r4ZLqZ3jwdk7r25DHQyXTeAFCWdJupMNQzhM3LguhA4xmwz6HL4Xf0EkZjRqrcM3TtBFmzEv4n_dQ1YqQC33Ate6Y0ckbV8CCo1xsmp9IvMc/s1600/P1080345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwWJ3n9FifxBnBgx_U1gex3Z-v0I5F1O5r4ZLqZ3jwdk7r25DHQyXTeAFCWdJupMNQzhM3LguhA4xmwz6HL4Xf0EkZjRqrcM3TtBFmzEv4n_dQ1YqQC33Ate6Y0ckbV8CCo1xsmp9IvMc/s400/P1080345.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prickly Bay is good for my morning swims. My bright orange buoy provides some visibility for the occasional dinghy that zips through. I make my way over to Calabash Beach to spend most of my swim in the safety parallel of the beach.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNx19KTNNNWKrCkFtkCl82npnY2LqAVuECxKVzR_u1Mztwjzbt0bn2ikPJr86vYdlo8hn0zf-Yks4QB4o_3Bt_YhmivzZsfFXbz34_oooQNBRUwj3XKbeOLxKoqycbyxh1e03o8-5V0Bc/s1600/IMG_20191112_175519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNx19KTNNNWKrCkFtkCl82npnY2LqAVuECxKVzR_u1Mztwjzbt0bn2ikPJr86vYdlo8hn0zf-Yks4QB4o_3Bt_YhmivzZsfFXbz34_oooQNBRUwj3XKbeOLxKoqycbyxh1e03o8-5V0Bc/s400/IMG_20191112_175519.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sand Bar at Calabash Beach, Prickly Bay is a beautiful spot to relax enjoy the sunset after a full day of boat projects; oh, and our regular jobs. Argon is anchored in the background.</td></tr>
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<h3>
Boat Projects Continue (always)</h3>
A new Doyle main sail through Turbulence was made over the summer in Barbados. However, as <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/week-one-third-half-grenada.html" target="_blank">outlined in the last blog post, the luff was too long for the track</a>. After the second re-cut, we try again.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTR_-FcNK-y7MdLG4YXsQOACPajrGg_yBcmZkNrRz0s1SdUvgtd1Mu1IqGSyhvQLK6R6_BHnKk6o2skqooKLgei7vj3ar-aqZ2vRlrFqPIU64VFpgaaUQmS59tp-61ztmuDLjoHwvR908/s1600/IMG_20191111_170813.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTR_-FcNK-y7MdLG4YXsQOACPajrGg_yBcmZkNrRz0s1SdUvgtd1Mu1IqGSyhvQLK6R6_BHnKk6o2skqooKLgei7vj3ar-aqZ2vRlrFqPIU64VFpgaaUQmS59tp-61ztmuDLjoHwvR908/s400/IMG_20191111_170813.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob transports the new re-re-cut main sail to Argon late in the evening. We wait for daylight to test fit.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOS_dWnD66qh0-twO4BE2z9hy6SnoBu8AmiMptvEoq1MTnrLHRqRfX7Hx-1GHxjeZBPbMlhNXQpqGPtuleOAieNEy9TvzY0aOt3zOLeWLJkg_21FFFDHxAT20_FYkX3B9vNrfX7Q7BNkw/s1600/IMG_20191112_063103.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOS_dWnD66qh0-twO4BE2z9hy6SnoBu8AmiMptvEoq1MTnrLHRqRfX7Hx-1GHxjeZBPbMlhNXQpqGPtuleOAieNEy9TvzY0aOt3zOLeWLJkg_21FFFDHxAT20_FYkX3B9vNrfX7Q7BNkw/s400/IMG_20191112_063103.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early
the next morning, with fortuitous timing just before a squall comes
through, we bend the new main sail... And she fits beautifully - we can
hardly wait to test her out!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
Rationing Power, Seeking Shade</h3>
Our first week at anchorage was sans bimini which meant modest solar power and no shade in the cockpit. The winds have also been uncharacteristically low (often non-existent). During the day the temperature below deck is usually 92F; at night we dip down to 82F. Sleeping has been uncomfortable but should improve as winds pick up and we inch our way to higher latitudes. Frequent dips off the swim platform help (but the water is 84F).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2ZNMvOgFSKHcyIivdxZ1rEFu9QS4I-gOWNeHMix35FWphhJtWdFef_saDtRShcflkybW5G3KuMlYxM8JVphuve9EUcNEdhS6MbYgN0pMPVPiu5tRz6ww2PMZWfS07d9R0CW_IXev58k/s1600/Screenshot_20191114-093646_Weather.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2ZNMvOgFSKHcyIivdxZ1rEFu9QS4I-gOWNeHMix35FWphhJtWdFef_saDtRShcflkybW5G3KuMlYxM8JVphuve9EUcNEdhS6MbYgN0pMPVPiu5tRz6ww2PMZWfS07d9R0CW_IXev58k/s320/Screenshot_20191114-093646_Weather.jpg" width="155" /></a></div>
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The completed bimini was worth the wait and the several dinghy shuttles with our friends from Tropical Sails and Canvas. Douglas and team did a fantastic job with the somewhat complicated bimini making improvements to how the solar side panels are attached. After cleaning all the connectors and getting all the full 385 Watts of panels mounted, we are able to bring in 20amps midday to keep our lap tops charged and refrigerator cool. We can now comfortably sit in the shaded cockpit and perhaps even soon have ice. Life is good! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_XiX1X67y0WoQeDbqccFvGHx3UtMHI9um8-GLcJxuACWPIXDZzcRMv6rl_WGL0WSXbrMH4Z_LQupJFMDHsxGz28Pn6tyE6NweNUfuZD3BCLdxAx4qbtTiTmKTOy-x_Q1ucK4456N6L3A/s1600/IMG_20191110_081037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_XiX1X67y0WoQeDbqccFvGHx3UtMHI9um8-GLcJxuACWPIXDZzcRMv6rl_WGL0WSXbrMH4Z_LQupJFMDHsxGz28Pn6tyE6NweNUfuZD3BCLdxAx4qbtTiTmKTOy-x_Q1ucK4456N6L3A/s400/IMG_20191110_081037.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Improvising with catching solar until our new bimini is finished and the panels can be properly attached. The low wind has had an upside in that the panels are at less risk of blowing away. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIvkT5-FqqUZlTeD268_ilzMzJR_O-e1pkXdxr0_hjzDSB2mlOSa3qh_vH3hpU8K2bO0NTLq7aCJOWwWh9VXrP7gBMsy4dZoZO6xTSar5ofIjkflUZxhfACo0DGp7eufZxu-q-F3MW4Yg/s1600/P1080358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIvkT5-FqqUZlTeD268_ilzMzJR_O-e1pkXdxr0_hjzDSB2mlOSa3qh_vH3hpU8K2bO0NTLq7aCJOWwWh9VXrP7gBMsy4dZoZO6xTSar5ofIjkflUZxhfACo0DGp7eufZxu-q-F3MW4Yg/s400/P1080358.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A shadeless cockpit the first week at anchor. Douglas and Brian from Tropical Sails and Canvas are ensuring a perfect fit on the frame and for the mounting of the solar panels.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFpudnpZFiyLetQ7u1PtXY4z-PIVwH8H6ZsSXBVvlWtY17K5RrivEyr4zVjbAZDLuzmZuqoj_1i1hlcXdmQbEznXKywqbRIdL7CVub4_x2jGqCLgzGB239Bwr_bU-Zj5HpilMGRmwJUv8/s1600/20191115_073318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFpudnpZFiyLetQ7u1PtXY4z-PIVwH8H6ZsSXBVvlWtY17K5RrivEyr4zVjbAZDLuzmZuqoj_1i1hlcXdmQbEznXKywqbRIdL7CVub4_x2jGqCLgzGB239Bwr_bU-Zj5HpilMGRmwJUv8/s400/20191115_073318.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final bimini project was worth the wait. Douglas and team at Tropical Sails and Canvas did
fantastic work on this somewhat complicated piece including altering how
the solar and side panels are attached and the wires protected from UV. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3>
Grenadian Hash </h3>
A popular activity in Grenada is a <a href="http://grenadahash.com/" target="_blank">Hash </a>which is a sort of athletic / social / eating / drinking event that takes place at a different location on the island each time. We were unable to participate in one last spring due to Bob's convalescing but happily joined one recently. This event took place in Crochu on the eastern coast. At the end of the trek everyone celebrates with blaring soca music, food and beer. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJupI58P6-N-2cXCPkT9doE0xBeBOJAMYehtFWAbejdBVNaUtnjYFjEfuM-A4l1frt2ys1BqZrmjJWb9vsAoyIpnUnfe9bojtJyP2uiBNuqET8mM4N4wMm94zKbguy7tq90In3HjW8HXE/s1600/IMG_20191116_154025%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJupI58P6-N-2cXCPkT9doE0xBeBOJAMYehtFWAbejdBVNaUtnjYFjEfuM-A4l1frt2ys1BqZrmjJWb9vsAoyIpnUnfe9bojtJyP2uiBNuqET8mM4N4wMm94zKbguy7tq90In3HjW8HXE/s400/IMG_20191116_154025%257E2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More than one hundred people participated in the Hash. This is the beginning part of the walkers trail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7yVA1H-HvHtWtXZy9pYtzbah2nrEiBgdMSpLLMdnmTDepwaDAiphwBLhOPrj-FBIcXEneJ7uuUN9dES8Dl8IZODJEJk79lj4J5GUparjR3u7w7byf860RvUAzMxRDhF8hmdWq9sFbL0/s1600/IMG_20191116_161720%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1082" data-original-width="1600" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7yVA1H-HvHtWtXZy9pYtzbah2nrEiBgdMSpLLMdnmTDepwaDAiphwBLhOPrj-FBIcXEneJ7uuUN9dES8Dl8IZODJEJk79lj4J5GUparjR3u7w7byf860RvUAzMxRDhF8hmdWq9sFbL0/s320/IMG_20191116_161720%257E2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some beautiful scenery along the three mile route. (Bob is holding his back... we learned that he still needs to be careful with his sciatica. We took it slowly.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholKPl5G3xECUuA8mfp9pTENbYlqUKKn5i4g21I4Qvy-qF1fIHyvE4uNn9SnrPGiNunIrIo_bcQPysdomfZh2-LAyTPmB7oo7KwCGJlh0RPc0hjbZFkakDOBIvkQa7Ti27RZDUKzxC8zA/s1600/IMG_20191116_162232%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholKPl5G3xECUuA8mfp9pTENbYlqUKKn5i4g21I4Qvy-qF1fIHyvE4uNn9SnrPGiNunIrIo_bcQPysdomfZh2-LAyTPmB7oo7KwCGJlh0RPc0hjbZFkakDOBIvkQa7Ti27RZDUKzxC8zA/s320/IMG_20191116_162232%257E2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing a stream.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNU9PjRLNjncWFwJPrCiXZx43w2j353GLI91aefWcqg5WllLTDp-qILX8rFQFtNFcR0NlDLK0SYW-yGHykcAQ1YQkpOf7gOlgas5jc3iJcwZZR1U9AWzt7phE9mdSadjm0O15JjcETMJA/s1600/IMG_20191116_164133%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNU9PjRLNjncWFwJPrCiXZx43w2j353GLI91aefWcqg5WllLTDp-qILX8rFQFtNFcR0NlDLK0SYW-yGHykcAQ1YQkpOf7gOlgas5jc3iJcwZZR1U9AWzt7phE9mdSadjm0O15JjcETMJA/s320/IMG_20191116_164133%257E2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overlooking the eastern coast and the Atlantic Ocean.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxkBqJ-e5s1Qeqa2_Yp-QKf_gc8BOvfwoXbZT4cHSHUYvljPEddbpsT7MCm1wFULuTS_NOBUj4WPBvDGBlefWBIsVKdEnKr2XvNoQLfaQSaLAG6hG4-9lB5Kwfts0IN5ZoL62Ab-F-pZQ/s1600/IMG_20191116_163325%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1386" data-original-width="1600" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxkBqJ-e5s1Qeqa2_Yp-QKf_gc8BOvfwoXbZT4cHSHUYvljPEddbpsT7MCm1wFULuTS_NOBUj4WPBvDGBlefWBIsVKdEnKr2XvNoQLfaQSaLAG6hG4-9lB5Kwfts0IN5ZoL62Ab-F-pZQ/s320/IMG_20191116_163325%257E2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of the route through a rural residential neighborhood along the mountainous coast.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
St. George's Market and Provisioning</h3>
Each Friday and Saturday downtown St. George's bursts with activity and color as vendors set up produce stands, sell trinkets, and entice customers with local spices attracting both locals and tourists. I introduced Bob to a smoothie shop discoverd last April and we could not get enough of the papaya-mango-banana icy cool sweetness. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPC2AdNlU679l_ZHg4wedE48kQIBh4_uKplZgnTkCRXZGf1hyHCeUsXipFsHU7pgDKmg6sNGoH8GSpoe5e8n2fmgOV093-mmPowt_UNLnLS4Mk-rIJL-ooQmrP8S5ed-2Pkown-IbAGQ/s1600/P1080320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPC2AdNlU679l_ZHg4wedE48kQIBh4_uKplZgnTkCRXZGf1hyHCeUsXipFsHU7pgDKmg6sNGoH8GSpoe5e8n2fmgOV093-mmPowt_UNLnLS4Mk-rIJL-ooQmrP8S5ed-2Pkown-IbAGQ/s400/P1080320.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hill leading down to the street market in St. George's.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhoaC5e6by77EvYRN1hVFomPwixvdoW73stYkFDbkx-QR7Sjlor3xKO9MGstLxyIntamCOJ_LnytmO6MSysPob4rCQIPjyW-Yh2z5UoMapS0D4h-oOhAfHRarJ3MWc8uOMknsZNpczbSI/s1600/P1080342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhoaC5e6by77EvYRN1hVFomPwixvdoW73stYkFDbkx-QR7Sjlor3xKO9MGstLxyIntamCOJ_LnytmO6MSysPob4rCQIPjyW-Yh2z5UoMapS0D4h-oOhAfHRarJ3MWc8uOMknsZNpczbSI/s320/P1080342.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old building in downtown St. George's.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Z8LBZq0m6i7nuJkHoSn0hsNZZ4aIOISVN8OaYNU7NNgC0bGj7eItHkE3Z7pugMJu6iE5Dsi4MckodtNknXTGW0cF9A_XLoBfgy7Nf6yys1uN3roeWQQtxfX7bhQZdhIjUZfGjqWOvRQ/s1600/P1080341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Z8LBZq0m6i7nuJkHoSn0hsNZZ4aIOISVN8OaYNU7NNgC0bGj7eItHkE3Z7pugMJu6iE5Dsi4MckodtNknXTGW0cF9A_XLoBfgy7Nf6yys1uN3roeWQQtxfX7bhQZdhIjUZfGjqWOvRQ/s400/P1080341.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Andrews Presbyterian Church at the top of the hill in St. George's. It was mostly destroyed during hurricane Ivan in 2004 (the most recent hurricane to hit Grenada).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Provisioning the boat from scratch is a bit of an expensive ordeal and multi-step logistical challenge. I have taken a bus to a supermarket but am limited in the amount purchased by how much I can carry to/from the bus stops. A few miscellaneous items can be found from tiny markets that we walk by on our way to restaurants or other places by foot. Some items such as ultra pasteurized boxed milk, soda water, diet coke, and Carib beer can be purchased in bulk, picked up nearby on shore and loaded in to the dinghy. The St. George Market is difficult to get to but a great source of both local and shipped in produce. When we eventually get to Martinique (late December), more substantial provisioning can be done as the selection and prices will be much better. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Cooking Class </h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwG5C62dzzWi_vlKoWwQh1rgb6OHlC79LCdUIjeFvn4XsE-24R7Nc8DE22hn85uaWN3ijisY6RqtzBUlNotumJ5ZyNLrE4aOPwt5g1_JodUFajIHWX8EmGJljLY0DSzzB5gb-Y3ZObpdg/s1600/IMG_20191114_152936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwG5C62dzzWi_vlKoWwQh1rgb6OHlC79LCdUIjeFvn4XsE-24R7Nc8DE22hn85uaWN3ijisY6RqtzBUlNotumJ5ZyNLrE4aOPwt5g1_JodUFajIHWX8EmGJljLY0DSzzB5gb-Y3ZObpdg/s400/IMG_20191114_152936.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Ester and Omega share Grenadian cooking secrets at
Dodgy Dock in True Blue Harbor - about a 20 minute walk from where we
are anchored in Prickly Bay. Time to finally buy some salt fish.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Onward....</h3>
<br />
Soon we will depart Grenada on a modest 35nm sail northeast to Carriacou, still part of the country of Grenada but a much smaller island with a population of 8,000 (vs 100,000 on the mainland). In Carriacou we will host our son Christian and his girlfriend Brittany as they sail with us along the chain of islands in the Grenadines.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAEPCXMKVXfXwgas7q-zVyAYroLonOBJrPDMiPl18ULIaiMKNRMDBSkbH55JEQAiKhG-CC8FidyZwf4P6VNSqThVjqvEqbz8MPTLGw_AUlKsoYMWryFVDcmCo5dy3WCd45kQHwqJ0UqMg/s1600/P1080346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAEPCXMKVXfXwgas7q-zVyAYroLonOBJrPDMiPl18ULIaiMKNRMDBSkbH55JEQAiKhG-CC8FidyZwf4P6VNSqThVjqvEqbz8MPTLGw_AUlKsoYMWryFVDcmCo5dy3WCd45kQHwqJ0UqMg/s400/P1080346.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy to be on the water even if still just at anchor as we work on completing final boat projects in preparation to begin sailing soon!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrJSpvpSqJjI_BY8c1J51ACrRXIjc1Ste8I482mU84Z_HP1_jTMsyWnjE_pr1HtO97o6PQbZTgmJyrZyiGnYrk2A4juaFBI7b-GHOb-tfOp5a_z8V4l4X4dgDzSb1JqLaY6vMqq0wGWs/s1600/IMG_20191114_172634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrJSpvpSqJjI_BY8c1J51ACrRXIjc1Ste8I482mU84Z_HP1_jTMsyWnjE_pr1HtO97o6PQbZTgmJyrZyiGnYrk2A4juaFBI7b-GHOb-tfOp5a_z8V4l4X4dgDzSb1JqLaY6vMqq0wGWs/s400/IMG_20191114_172634.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grenada is definitely better second time around!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-33276097728850258612019-11-10T17:16:00.000-05:002019-11-11T05:11:16.624-05:00Week One of The Third Half - GrenadaWhat a week it has been as we embark on our third extended cruise: The Third Half. Aptly named since <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/07/" target="_blank">our second cruise </a>was not intended to stop in Grenada, thus this voyage is a resumption of #2. Huh? No matter.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
<div>
<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
</div>
<br />
Argon is finally back in her natural habitat happily swinging on the hook. This comes after several <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/" target="_blank">summer projects</a> by the boatyard and intense attention over the past week as Bob and I spent very full days attending to just about every system and surface.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqKXW9QGKf98Ze3jqD4ni1zFeOauTVdEvKWb4PrZgP5FhADeMJW0jTNoiy5y-5sv_mhGza6g99zJAve-ev4avplBCsR8quLJqZH0Wxhyphenhyphenn8jF5G5XffpI5hmyXVXJ7ttGjoluD4IXMdH0U/s1600/IMG_20191109_095823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqKXW9QGKf98Ze3jqD4ni1zFeOauTVdEvKWb4PrZgP5FhADeMJW0jTNoiy5y-5sv_mhGza6g99zJAve-ev4avplBCsR8quLJqZH0Wxhyphenhyphenn8jF5G5XffpI5hmyXVXJ7ttGjoluD4IXMdH0U/s400/IMG_20191109_095823.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon happily back in the water after being hauled out since late April at Spice Island Marine Services, Prickly Bay, Grenada. Almost ready to set sail... but still no main sail or bimini (see blow).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Gooseneck</h3>
<br />
The <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/11/" target="_blank">new custom carbon gooseneck</a> looked terrific but was unfinished due to frustrating confusing and scant communications. Once we were here in person to triangulate messages, Ron from Driftwood was fantastic in working with us to do the final assembly, and fabricate custom bushings and gooseneck pin. The final assembly completed just hours before we splashed! One less important but frustrating aspect of this was the boatyard's shoddy (and expensive) paint job on the mast around the new gooseneck and some other touch-ups. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkTso9-KBntdy47xyVTyVOqFkKX1FreRE3ujmlmCuzrUlnow6Cwm_iK-q3MWrSC2AdbeQPjijhyphenhyphenODPpoKmWlgaBeUEGaTITe4NbGMh_gbzz5Zvp-MC6YKEn7bb1U7qL6dmmC5KOOoaEY/s1600/IMG_20191106_064621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkTso9-KBntdy47xyVTyVOqFkKX1FreRE3ujmlmCuzrUlnow6Cwm_iK-q3MWrSC2AdbeQPjijhyphenhyphenODPpoKmWlgaBeUEGaTITe4NbGMh_gbzz5Zvp-MC6YKEn7bb1U7qL6dmmC5KOOoaEY/s400/IMG_20191106_064621.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boom remained on deck until the gooseneck was complete.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span id="goog_1581626682"></span><span id="goog_1581626683"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbFS-sBVmsbr3jYvAOiQ2LsgzXOZ3VJEfcuQxyrP4L3NY17Y4Pa6VefOklVJbTsEi9HeYAJWwg3btU-JvwNEirSm9AmwkdC6BG212ypkJMqAmLrH8WqHxsj342nS2_KvyPr3O_dC6QYY/s1600/IMG_20191107_095513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbFS-sBVmsbr3jYvAOiQ2LsgzXOZ3VJEfcuQxyrP4L3NY17Y4Pa6VefOklVJbTsEi9HeYAJWwg3btU-JvwNEirSm9AmwkdC6BG212ypkJMqAmLrH8WqHxsj342nS2_KvyPr3O_dC6QYY/s400/IMG_20191107_095513.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ronny testing the fit of newly fabricated pin machined at a local shop the prior day.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3umEbanUgaLgVVipX_7AP3Bekc0ApBGKkSE0W9opB_ZOVxvafqvao5cibjdNFw5wAPZOPv04UfOV1xsGCy1Vaqs0hPbh4jVT6iNNci6qBtMUYajwixKjbd6h52cYc9FvMI5qc1ADxjoQ/s1600/IMG_20191107_095527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3umEbanUgaLgVVipX_7AP3Bekc0ApBGKkSE0W9opB_ZOVxvafqvao5cibjdNFw5wAPZOPv04UfOV1xsGCy1Vaqs0hPbh4jVT6iNNci6qBtMUYajwixKjbd6h52cYc9FvMI5qc1ADxjoQ/s400/IMG_20191107_095527.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ronny and Ron from Driftwood carefully working on setting the bushing and testing the fit. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAPl4FWVJpRf9PT4W2WSt8AMSmKwHuLhNtqSPc9uZO0z_GEIoHdCYCzAOYCLnSgr9tCVUG11Ti7gd5G5ecSFyyOXnO2hCKy0wdSIUB-OQNjud_DfFeEFa6vwGaEgxnD7FsHQitjbh5Mk/s1600/P1080291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1598" data-original-width="1600" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAPl4FWVJpRf9PT4W2WSt8AMSmKwHuLhNtqSPc9uZO0z_GEIoHdCYCzAOYCLnSgr9tCVUG11Ti7gd5G5ecSFyyOXnO2hCKy0wdSIUB-OQNjud_DfFeEFa6vwGaEgxnD7FsHQitjbh5Mk/s400/P1080291.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gooseneck complete. Just need to wait 24 hours for epoxy on the bushings to cure.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTk5Zej_w6HQlwK69omxjR-HZ-3D2k-H14fsRaAzZS4XGaHwvwQjSarkLtkS3qWoVZ66lrArTmHOSwYfMBRKswU_wsLdiqnMhQoTGrcU4BM1tVOyJLJtZwmJZXhcdSk81EAY3DTdAodo/s1600/P1080285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTk5Zej_w6HQlwK69omxjR-HZ-3D2k-H14fsRaAzZS4XGaHwvwQjSarkLtkS3qWoVZ66lrArTmHOSwYfMBRKswU_wsLdiqnMhQoTGrcU4BM1tVOyJLJtZwmJZXhcdSk81EAY3DTdAodo/s400/P1080285.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda with Ronny and Ron from Driftwood. These guys did nice work!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
</h4>
<h3>
Connect, Clean, Scrub, Put Away, and Clean Again</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h4>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrQRrsG1qDMiBTwkePc2NeXR7F3c4QvuddopOOD9r9mepMsCl21FcqN1v0dsFCvadEuMf6n1i841V7hy2h2KEsQ4yedBPHr04j7VxTyxBOaf7t82Qv4cDYPpQd0ntq-qsddQvGCxju0jQ/s1600/20191102_080428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrQRrsG1qDMiBTwkePc2NeXR7F3c4QvuddopOOD9r9mepMsCl21FcqN1v0dsFCvadEuMf6n1i841V7hy2h2KEsQ4yedBPHr04j7VxTyxBOaf7t82Qv4cDYPpQd0ntq-qsddQvGCxju0jQ/s400/20191102_080428.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After mast was stepped, Bob connected wires for the anchor light, steaming light, windex light, deck light, tricolor light, and anemometer.</td></tr>
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</h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXwpWzcafOrjy7xsdapjoCzJ91nGGylr8cioan2HJ5hizKFUabmCg5jbmBy6b8CeWtAFPqEDZsGTZVfDkL4OA0pYmWeyta614-cVLPH43X7QpXEkOtlkZ6Y40Npj0f8Fkzga8oIiwmmVU/s1600/IMG_20191106_063616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXwpWzcafOrjy7xsdapjoCzJ91nGGylr8cioan2HJ5hizKFUabmCg5jbmBy6b8CeWtAFPqEDZsGTZVfDkL4OA0pYmWeyta614-cVLPH43X7QpXEkOtlkZ6Y40Npj0f8Fkzga8oIiwmmVU/s400/IMG_20191106_063616.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To do list for Wednesday.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE682eXZ38EeG3_nPOkQXIulcvX5xWPMAuLOARoGlIscycr_955xrqKnRssMKI0ZnsWMlywDQFQg8w1ezYmHQcHgsbX0p_3GkqTfD3NOP6UOXR0UROVL7HX4oW_0AXw8zjr3XPHquPrac/s1600/IMG_20191106_065406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE682eXZ38EeG3_nPOkQXIulcvX5xWPMAuLOARoGlIscycr_955xrqKnRssMKI0ZnsWMlywDQFQg8w1ezYmHQcHgsbX0p_3GkqTfD3NOP6UOXR0UROVL7HX4oW_0AXw8zjr3XPHquPrac/s400/IMG_20191106_065406.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organized chaos below. We are actually making progress although it is difficult to tell.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span id="goog_360754492"></span><span id="goog_360754493"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDr6iN_Z-ZgTpctgjsKhou6fCX4MPJ80UWykmBxp3ee_xMRlCdQtEcPtUJErGDHPzhMlmbohRk0soDiVvChYthTv28lRnCXehe4rCpIhss4D8TkyMIawNUaHQdExnvH4w-3tX1-y1auPs/s1600/IMG_20191106_064554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDr6iN_Z-ZgTpctgjsKhou6fCX4MPJ80UWykmBxp3ee_xMRlCdQtEcPtUJErGDHPzhMlmbohRk0soDiVvChYthTv28lRnCXehe4rCpIhss4D8TkyMIawNUaHQdExnvH4w-3tX1-y1auPs/s400/IMG_20191106_064554.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Messy, dirty cockpit. But not for much longer.</td></tr>
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<span id="goog_360754492"></span><span id="goog_360754493"></span><br />
<h3>
Corrosion and Mold</h3>
<br />
Much time was spent last April cleaning surfaces with diluted vinegar and bagging up lines, clothes, and bedding that remained on board. Once a month during the scorching heat of the wet season, someone from the boatyard would open up Argon for some ventilation, inspect for leaks (were none) and change the desiccants. Argon's interior was generally in great condition and even smelled fine. There were just a few issues including minor corrosion on cabinet latches, light switches, shower and sink fixtures and guitar tuning knobs. There were a few areas of light mold on surfaces that was likely due getting missed from the April vinegar cleaning. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQioLI7GGuTaEF8dkNx80tkiudFpUMlt-WAH9jF6jGjoqpb0RycdW_vhuhOptoP__-yV4r_j6je1jZbn85Zz_BC1b4aMJA6s0oJcPiyGiIprcCCj4I1R6Avtplm2ByfyUswSt-g1b3d0/s1600/20190426_080407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQioLI7GGuTaEF8dkNx80tkiudFpUMlt-WAH9jF6jGjoqpb0RycdW_vhuhOptoP__-yV4r_j6je1jZbn85Zz_BC1b4aMJA6s0oJcPiyGiIprcCCj4I1R6Avtplm2ByfyUswSt-g1b3d0/s400/20190426_080407.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Several buckets of desiccant were placed throughout the cabin and changed each month over the summer to help keep the moisture levels down and decrease the risk of mold and mildew.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHX1gZu0y7zUepJp_MhpKsC41gzdHmfXdh65i08VjsnHOrruJDHDmQV7MadEvLnjhAV4aWy2e_HTkQ4xbp6qfV-mD46PCAy9pqPlQfuVy9zncjX4nul3uMUZmPHWZbLhU7422AXXeAhNE/s1600/IMG_20191107_075605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHX1gZu0y7zUepJp_MhpKsC41gzdHmfXdh65i08VjsnHOrruJDHDmQV7MadEvLnjhAV4aWy2e_HTkQ4xbp6qfV-mD46PCAy9pqPlQfuVy9zncjX4nul3uMUZmPHWZbLhU7422AXXeAhNE/s400/IMG_20191107_075605.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The interior surfaces and stored clothes / bedding were mostly in great conditions. A few casualties including this handbag that succumbed to mold and corrosion. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU9BNInCV7MQBQjgoMmaaY2Kwn13YUpwiDw57C7K3xYakhkwpg-18VYErnB8DIIe7peBCxZUG31ZfQuAExPYrNW96R7EvlZwhg-4XeYK-9woHkXGxaB1dqmU3ANaQYwP3AROcwD-UqBzI/s1600/20191102_081913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU9BNInCV7MQBQjgoMmaaY2Kwn13YUpwiDw57C7K3xYakhkwpg-18VYErnB8DIIe7peBCxZUG31ZfQuAExPYrNW96R7EvlZwhg-4XeYK-9woHkXGxaB1dqmU3ANaQYwP3AROcwD-UqBzI/s400/20191102_081913.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before pic: corroded bow light.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfxaRvdTWWVcKNF6RaHiB9TTVnZkJYY5uwhyphenhyphenHeUS4i53gm_WyEj1ZFEudLfEorYknIizSK0BlMYpHgP57XfPR6aHXllCHDTfaOojt8wliRvfTLjgrXxIhP-x45KIWIl6JL_jtKI_md_s/s1600/20191102_085506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfxaRvdTWWVcKNF6RaHiB9TTVnZkJYY5uwhyphenhyphenHeUS4i53gm_WyEj1ZFEudLfEorYknIizSK0BlMYpHgP57XfPR6aHXllCHDTfaOojt8wliRvfTLjgrXxIhP-x45KIWIl6JL_jtKI_md_s/s400/20191102_085506.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After pic: Bow light after scrubbing away corrosion and replacing the bulb. Yes, it works!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholSAT1EZES4jvhvcmu2hmCORRDG70p2BYdDE4kdDMPj-d_ilJQUQhHyTv3aRqBjEU3YEO_9sfTCyn5BnFsOiX0CYvmM9_ssKNLCQuCHUM8sDRz-TFbXaROLT3hK4sJfdk6CbA0Cr4gus/s1600/20191107_122012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholSAT1EZES4jvhvcmu2hmCORRDG70p2BYdDE4kdDMPj-d_ilJQUQhHyTv3aRqBjEU3YEO_9sfTCyn5BnFsOiX0CYvmM9_ssKNLCQuCHUM8sDRz-TFbXaROLT3hK4sJfdk6CbA0Cr4gus/s400/20191107_122012.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleaning the depth / temperature transducer and speed paddle wheel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
</h4>
Argon has two water tanks (one under the starboard settee and the other forward under the V berth) holding a total of 135 gallons. Fill caps are out on the deck to take in water from a hose but we can get direct access to the tanks down below through large caps. This allows us to reach in to scrub the tanks and rinse out some gunk. We also were able to clean the float gauge to get a semi-accurate reading of the tank gauges. Water is a precious commodity across all of the islands so we are always judicious with it's use. And at 0.15 USD / gallon the cost can really add up when trying to clean a dirty boat and flush and fill the water tanks.<br />
<h3>
Dinghy and Outboard</h3>
<br />
Tropical Canvas fabricated protective chaps for the dinghy which will protect the hypalon from UV damage. Brian and Slade also were kind enough to give me a lift to a nearby gas station to fill the gas can. SIMS did a tune up to the 6hp Tohatsu. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-PFZ3f5iGMXz_rWPFePAFS1gl8wKoerfdTA1tMhiU2CVO9Y0i8MKh7fl8faOdI80pybfLYNZKAfviotye0PIixMVOXfQSvkVZO8n2pNTijB3FttMgIC89M0ntSPPrdh3XVBzgGQ2sUXo/s1600/IMG_20191106_125312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-PFZ3f5iGMXz_rWPFePAFS1gl8wKoerfdTA1tMhiU2CVO9Y0i8MKh7fl8faOdI80pybfLYNZKAfviotye0PIixMVOXfQSvkVZO8n2pNTijB3FttMgIC89M0ntSPPrdh3XVBzgGQ2sUXo/s400/IMG_20191106_125312.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slade from Tropical Canvas delivers the dinghy with her new chaps.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinwlvm3BLw6s99c1sFt4vtQBBWR_DGcmMoHuo5Eyso0hc3u-surBxWobXzUrLqtZKX5O3Pznn4rLI-SyLQUCOa-B-Pe7NXnEwOCDG5A20VK67HqcGOxoLst2Gqp1OKT5WOc8z24oIAwAg/s1600/IMG_20191106_142716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinwlvm3BLw6s99c1sFt4vtQBBWR_DGcmMoHuo5Eyso0hc3u-surBxWobXzUrLqtZKX5O3Pznn4rLI-SyLQUCOa-B-Pe7NXnEwOCDG5A20VK67HqcGOxoLst2Gqp1OKT5WOc8z24oIAwAg/s400/IMG_20191106_142716.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinghy bench seat had succumbed to the harsh UV last winter. We had forgotten to arrange for repairs of this over the summer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
</h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yOrVa_SlpJfQ3rvrOA4aRK_AElyMKr6VRIktmCqMG8cxMTY8aL-Xi1HMBq1mXb7gehuZxnRmUoe5NCN9T31JHh4sodUzT83Ih7RBEiGElXvFExzegQXfZ0hG02ifv8kvJKcSzjFXcn0/s1600/IMG_20191110_170733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yOrVa_SlpJfQ3rvrOA4aRK_AElyMKr6VRIktmCqMG8cxMTY8aL-Xi1HMBq1mXb7gehuZxnRmUoe5NCN9T31JHh4sodUzT83Ih7RBEiGElXvFExzegQXfZ0hG02ifv8kvJKcSzjFXcn0/s400/IMG_20191110_170733.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brian from Tropical Canvas quickly made a new bench seat cover. Our 9 foot AB aluminum V bottom is critical for land access while at anchor thus we aim to take good care of her!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<h3>
Final Night on Land</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9d7eXsaNjZNVMAwWgDmYkYqqQ-IFjAPkVRHPQy-TEp33aIhLmJxxvdifv5PoPG62U_hf2bjsygmiPwWaeW_2dBtpG6Co2FuwviRZAXzK0__-7_xRGVsiMq-jQsJMRhd3jSypHj82VCbM/s1600/P1080236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9d7eXsaNjZNVMAwWgDmYkYqqQ-IFjAPkVRHPQy-TEp33aIhLmJxxvdifv5PoPG62U_hf2bjsygmiPwWaeW_2dBtpG6Co2FuwviRZAXzK0__-7_xRGVsiMq-jQsJMRhd3jSypHj82VCbM/s400/P1080236.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h4>
</h4>
<h3>
Launch!</h3>
<br />
After just over six months on the hard in a hurricane cradle and the mast down, Argon is ready to be back on the water with a newly painted bottom, varnished cap rails, and waxed hull and deck.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd5lrdGTPZ14AucVyH3pZ3WGhD7XpPDWpxQORJyHe-YFMCm8eVg4KMB5tTHafv7oX8L8icqOS9jNNeIOpxUrbyjIuWMeaps-UuemfpmF4Xof10Y9I7cVUUyd6TuSZHQxlVKRgFPFblNLk/s1600/IMG_20191107_112849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd5lrdGTPZ14AucVyH3pZ3WGhD7XpPDWpxQORJyHe-YFMCm8eVg4KMB5tTHafv7oX8L8icqOS9jNNeIOpxUrbyjIuWMeaps-UuemfpmF4Xof10Y9I7cVUUyd6TuSZHQxlVKRgFPFblNLk/s400/IMG_20191107_112849.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHweoHL6LHpB5C_b_VGe98zfFiain6v3TDTt8pVp_GIdKQH8iw2fmg4LbH4PDSi4YnXboUSheCBygFxGf_j8ca-SZAKK1U_FknweRXqHhXTvN333LYAuu4BGhq-sswGiJjAatUCRONfJM/s1600/IMG_20191107_115554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHweoHL6LHpB5C_b_VGe98zfFiain6v3TDTt8pVp_GIdKQH8iw2fmg4LbH4PDSi4YnXboUSheCBygFxGf_j8ca-SZAKK1U_FknweRXqHhXTvN333LYAuu4BGhq-sswGiJjAatUCRONfJM/s400/IMG_20191107_115554.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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As soon as Argon was back in the water and secured in the lift bay with lines, we eagerly tested the engine. The 55hp Volvo diesel started up immediately with raw cooling water quickly spitting out the exhaust - wonderful! We soon motored out of the travel slip and tied up just on the other side of the cement wall so that the boatyard could continue launching other vessels and we could continue with preparations - most importantly getting the boom attached and sails on.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqWVRzsDCfGuWtjaXfJLtU1vTnNq7aY05kzxajydBC02bMpo_2MVi2iVLRMHiQ0lAB99hwEer-kYyk956HI-cDgFCtaB98ipcWw1OnJcmXHoTxBLeWl20_IYEOnDv6WwWBP3C_mIEf8X4/s1600/IMG_20191107_163653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqWVRzsDCfGuWtjaXfJLtU1vTnNq7aY05kzxajydBC02bMpo_2MVi2iVLRMHiQ0lAB99hwEer-kYyk956HI-cDgFCtaB98ipcWw1OnJcmXHoTxBLeWl20_IYEOnDv6WwWBP3C_mIEf8X4/s400/IMG_20191107_163653.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob adjusting the tension on the inner stay.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHXPdTrRfCDiYgOLiexuvnucU6Euw-dkLiAgsNuIlsHuGOxpUDw3YsfkYBUg2VKOueM0shgDRJ1eWnlM8dNE1_-0AcYflF7omBTsJwObb8b8t5GpyYbsBmo1NTBawle_mcYqapLMlVpc/s1600/IMG_20191108_090058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHXPdTrRfCDiYgOLiexuvnucU6Euw-dkLiAgsNuIlsHuGOxpUDw3YsfkYBUg2VKOueM0shgDRJ1eWnlM8dNE1_-0AcYflF7omBTsJwObb8b8t5GpyYbsBmo1NTBawle_mcYqapLMlVpc/s400/IMG_20191108_090058.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inner 90% jib and 150% genoa (both with new UV shields) now rigged by Bob and I. Guys from Turbulence arrive to mount boom and rig the brand new Doyle main sail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
New Main Sail... Whoops!</h3>
<br />
At this point we feel so close to having Argon ready and can hardly wait to see the new main sail up, even if it is only a test hoist while tied up. Turbulence cut the new round battens right at the dock and installed them as it went up.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-I-2lRcIeZlbf93o2u8HV2aiBtcL3lbTlS219kGVxfasQ8behHDBqAho26rEFlWbzAdz2p6zQsKe4aULmRmxMuASN4kMUo5e0XsOYW85R1LgO1DOwTLOhifR1z__W8CJGx8YVYO8dF8/s1600/IMG_20191108_090021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-I-2lRcIeZlbf93o2u8HV2aiBtcL3lbTlS219kGVxfasQ8behHDBqAho26rEFlWbzAdz2p6zQsKe4aULmRmxMuASN4kMUo5e0XsOYW85R1LgO1DOwTLOhifR1z__W8CJGx8YVYO8dF8/s400/IMG_20191108_090021.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boom is attached by the guys from Turbulence. Yes, it's hot and Bob needs a shower.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1zTIWB3mmZ4JHdJ1kOEj5ItVW_t6pM7Vq2dAsHdRJeWlnxrfx9xw5rQSK9tjD6CfEfruFAyL01y0DD7MocYwo9QcM7C2cMijq92iuDFjn5nuO_nWUSU5FspyIcmV5vki-5xLzkxKEse0/s1600/IMG_20191108_150703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1zTIWB3mmZ4JHdJ1kOEj5ItVW_t6pM7Vq2dAsHdRJeWlnxrfx9xw5rQSK9tjD6CfEfruFAyL01y0DD7MocYwo9QcM7C2cMijq92iuDFjn5nuO_nWUSU5FspyIcmV5vki-5xLzkxKEse0/s400/IMG_20191108_150703.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smooth Antal rings to minimize friction on the reefing line.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgculdcrTFW9S8acJoGYB9hJNBsFeJjR9sgw-4phB_H2bLxhfbn6hd-eJyyhmliV8LWkwsTQb1NJjHZA-Fsd55J2NlWKxiEP-wlmNEOoh4w0oSNkEjdrEWSIA1kc_w_I8PuZOV9zEpnIa0/s1600/IMG_20191108_150839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgculdcrTFW9S8acJoGYB9hJNBsFeJjR9sgw-4phB_H2bLxhfbn6hd-eJyyhmliV8LWkwsTQb1NJjHZA-Fsd55J2NlWKxiEP-wlmNEOoh4w0oSNkEjdrEWSIA1kc_w_I8PuZOV9zEpnIa0/s400/IMG_20191108_150839.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Harken cars to slide up the new track. This will facilitate hoisting and dropping greatly. However, one of the challenges is that bearings sometimes come loose, like on this car already. We will need to get some spare bearings and be sure to inspect the cars whenever the main is taken down off the track.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIK4WaX_IzWCo-9kKGvOuBZoeuHWJDzMVkeOCZi7zM0GZmBQzDOVl0nZREa2G2n_PchjcsS3SBTtomODOa6LhqveD1N7GaXMcFJWPysFReMMxxSjEhFvv1606_mG1CfeOQ5_ll7vztQc/s1600/IMG_20191108_150747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIK4WaX_IzWCo-9kKGvOuBZoeuHWJDzMVkeOCZi7zM0GZmBQzDOVl0nZREa2G2n_PchjcsS3SBTtomODOa6LhqveD1N7GaXMcFJWPysFReMMxxSjEhFvv1606_mG1CfeOQ5_ll7vztQc/s400/IMG_20191108_150747.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Harken head car.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMCImasvcqjOp95ULQcdOF_4u2fdQWglL4MVx4r42JT8BCQVXqGGkseGg_RFlAyG10Sq-EQ5_KwWsMScSBuenQXMCSQAdn_akdkbPNahjdvRQNylb5zXC1hSyAA33o1lqia_lX_FxuJKw/s1600/IMG_20191108_092831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMCImasvcqjOp95ULQcdOF_4u2fdQWglL4MVx4r42JT8BCQVXqGGkseGg_RFlAyG10Sq-EQ5_KwWsMScSBuenQXMCSQAdn_akdkbPNahjdvRQNylb5zXC1hSyAA33o1lqia_lX_FxuJKw/s400/IMG_20191108_092831.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon tied up on the cement wall next to the travelift slip while her boom gets re-attached and main sail is rigged.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Although the new main glides up the smooth track and the sail looks beautiful, the luff is too long!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7EU9kcUxtjWmmGpdghGSWmF0OUutBrvPy9-6tcQV1aXJmDQmEL1bIf_nEn7VW2w_LlxyKC7TNkHbqWhsBI7m13fv8XKOjf_G7dk1ATIk_G2TxR-KqEWAFI3zKas76r-f0ELhqh1HW8c/s1600/IMG_20191108_151553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7EU9kcUxtjWmmGpdghGSWmF0OUutBrvPy9-6tcQV1aXJmDQmEL1bIf_nEn7VW2w_LlxyKC7TNkHbqWhsBI7m13fv8XKOjf_G7dk1ATIk_G2TxR-KqEWAFI3zKas76r-f0ELhqh1HW8c/s400/IMG_20191108_151553.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cars along the luff get fed carefully on the track as the main is hoisted. She is beautiful. But... the luff is too long and cannot be tightened enough as the top car abuts against the top of the track. Down she comes for a modification in the sail loft. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOQCUmHldTWptFSR_ZSZ8wJU3lBDofZL0tzEnejwWIREae6gu1M2y9wCT3NOCrhe3GsOP5dI7DcMXU0vXad-eaNFwoze-1imdWkyduE6lLd2Dla0NdmiN6IP886ssy0ERtEVQ4mvEDs4/s1600/IMG_20191108_142153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOQCUmHldTWptFSR_ZSZ8wJU3lBDofZL0tzEnejwWIREae6gu1M2y9wCT3NOCrhe3GsOP5dI7DcMXU0vXad-eaNFwoze-1imdWkyduE6lLd2Dla0NdmiN6IP886ssy0ERtEVQ4mvEDs4/s400/IMG_20191108_142153.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main sail back to Turbulence to reduce the luff length. This is done by cutting and re-sewing the head. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtWDwDdH3iJYKZBKE3z-mPkJxRxSAS6R1lboB1StXsVOIsozAf7lU-EOVFeTIZ8fcNpbkJ9BRqFcHuxfMC0oj3abesFeUbBYs5le1izgNGSEqTaac4fPFaWB11LXM3b2WbaTi90tLWlxg/s1600/IMG_20191108_151516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtWDwDdH3iJYKZBKE3z-mPkJxRxSAS6R1lboB1StXsVOIsozAf7lU-EOVFeTIZ8fcNpbkJ9BRqFcHuxfMC0oj3abesFeUbBYs5le1izgNGSEqTaac4fPFaWB11LXM3b2WbaTi90tLWlxg/s400/IMG_20191108_151516.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take 2 with the adjusted new main sail.</td></tr>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyBU9HNBQylTJ_1u5jXru3EPsfrgknYEzFfWsnlXR639LUrbSPWikYNdKWXVZ2IYfFVO0hD5nu6_Kx2jbKcDBSAdkx_MXIh-vTJTPkB1koCDcMJ1N6X0wuId0Kx5fl-d4J8NNDEG5Yys/s1600/P1080306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyBU9HNBQylTJ_1u5jXru3EPsfrgknYEzFfWsnlXR639LUrbSPWikYNdKWXVZ2IYfFVO0hD5nu6_Kx2jbKcDBSAdkx_MXIh-vTJTPkB1koCDcMJ1N6X0wuId0Kx5fl-d4J8NNDEG5Yys/s400/P1080306.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oIhDcjIxq8S7UqJ3UErjQTTD6jankx92jBbtdLBzMmZR1ffGKbi0d_fl08_w7EgEnmM6qJeYt6MyuWPukEreKBWgB-W_0BJeNfOHp1spDid0xZNODMhWhGuPFwTObtaKrAvhrofHsKY/s1600/P1080307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oIhDcjIxq8S7UqJ3UErjQTTD6jankx92jBbtdLBzMmZR1ffGKbi0d_fl08_w7EgEnmM6qJeYt6MyuWPukEreKBWgB-W_0BJeNfOHp1spDid0xZNODMhWhGuPFwTObtaKrAvhrofHsKY/s400/P1080307.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oooph! #@$%*&!! Even after reducing the luff length by 9cm, the top track car almost abuts against the track head. Too close to allow for any stretching. Down and back to the shop again for another adjustment. But it's Friday late afternoon by now... so this will continue next week.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Teak Cleaning</h3>
<br />
The teak cockpit sole and coamings
are extremely practical as a non-skid surface. Raw teak can be
left to weather naturally, but I like the warm tan of clean teak even though
it comes with maintenance. In addition, the tropical conditions turned
Argon's teak to a mottled grey with black mildew. So out came my
preferred product: Snappy two part teak cleaner. It's a difficult job
that has a bit of technique to it but I love the results.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-bWBvlwNImEsF1CrHXf3ooUUDYCF03CqKD9yKPr6j4nK8ADDuzxdtk4uNm2Vw_teePIQv4CFuV4kDED6_l3qLGxi30Z2AGNoB-joxCg8y71hwERuz7yBUucAw0_ly11aj53ZhozPgaoI/s1600/IMG_20191106_064646.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-bWBvlwNImEsF1CrHXf3ooUUDYCF03CqKD9yKPr6j4nK8ADDuzxdtk4uNm2Vw_teePIQv4CFuV4kDED6_l3qLGxi30Z2AGNoB-joxCg8y71hwERuz7yBUucAw0_ly11aj53ZhozPgaoI/s400/IMG_20191106_064646.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOewKJdpdJoj4_ut2JAsSfkJL3WVlYGKvHOO7ahHJZI9mBA3iWOLDlKV-d3ZGZczAG2WuSizo57VZXRJ2z3L0W6J6KMKoBQoGkMJMkNSQ5BgxtKbwaaTHlMGOV3Gcmts8kxh3__wmrTdM/s1600/20191107_150659.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOewKJdpdJoj4_ut2JAsSfkJL3WVlYGKvHOO7ahHJZI9mBA3iWOLDlKV-d3ZGZczAG2WuSizo57VZXRJ2z3L0W6J6KMKoBQoGkMJMkNSQ5BgxtKbwaaTHlMGOV3Gcmts8kxh3__wmrTdM/s400/20191107_150659.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD0C-VvGXhyphenhyphenFlpdpt41R5JyRkU44VG-PJa50-Se_3K1_5owzO_SIbOlbq0q-vQhdCcR9CXdtk4oIubqe_0mTw9AsGb8wn3olJh5KmTOsHBereud68eHVCm3QzdtPTcjSaqakgoexQRI7Y/s1600/IMG_20191110_163948.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD0C-VvGXhyphenhyphenFlpdpt41R5JyRkU44VG-PJa50-Se_3K1_5owzO_SIbOlbq0q-vQhdCcR9CXdtk4oIubqe_0mTw9AsGb8wn3olJh5KmTOsHBereud68eHVCm3QzdtPTcjSaqakgoexQRI7Y/s400/IMG_20191110_163948.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
</h4>
<h3>
Awaiting Main Sail, Improvising with Solar Power and Enjoying an Iceless Sundowner</h3>
<br />
After one night on the cement wall, we had to move on to the anchorage despite no bimini or main sail yet. We expect to have a re-re-cut sail within a few days. Rigging and hoisting at anchor may be a bit more tricky but we will aim for early morning before the easterlies kick up.<br />
<br />
Tropical Canvas will finish our bimini within a few days (hopefully) so that we can have some shade in the cockpit and, even more importantly, mount three solar panels. In the meantime, we are sparse on electricity having to ration what we use carefully. One solar panel (135W) is generating good amperage from the dodger. We are continually adjusting the placement of two of the bimini panels (one 100W and one 50W) in the cockpit to catch some rays and not get blown away. We are generating just enough power to feel comfortable turning on the refrigerator (low setting only) but generally being even more judicious than usual about energy consumption.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy41WQsoWnELnKT2gK_YHKIk2Q-YQX5Qhg-C-pc03yuT_Le5O_CKB6BN-7n-dH7uGN6TgvAKmCnW0aoES6O1DwAkIvA83kQ9lj-oTzuNlwJunA2PC2L0ZacWjk7HpBpOG2umnhMXweZIY/s1600/IMG_20191110_081037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy41WQsoWnELnKT2gK_YHKIk2Q-YQX5Qhg-C-pc03yuT_Le5O_CKB6BN-7n-dH7uGN6TgvAKmCnW0aoES6O1DwAkIvA83kQ9lj-oTzuNlwJunA2PC2L0ZacWjk7HpBpOG2umnhMXweZIY/s400/IMG_20191110_081037.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Improvising with energy production while we await the new bimini.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32C3El5tTB8-LrPWkdavR5qmSx9l-lkgSL-bvECVWB3vX9aGbISGLzOn_m8HeiwSMsU0YGw7qhYtLuJ7X4SSdCMld5x3eZxmfw8_SyiSz_c9MUYleIdRO9REv0hxEIfKX_Bp58YZlRcc/s1600/P1080347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32C3El5tTB8-LrPWkdavR5qmSx9l-lkgSL-bvECVWB3vX9aGbISGLzOn_m8HeiwSMsU0YGw7qhYtLuJ7X4SSdCMld5x3eZxmfw8_SyiSz_c9MUYleIdRO9REv0hxEIfKX_Bp58YZlRcc/s400/P1080347.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying an evening cocktail (without ice!) at the end of week one of The Third Half. Feeling grateful. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com3True Blue Rd, True Blue, Grenada12.005942327786032 -61.76483644550785411.990410827786032 -61.785006445507854 12.021473827786032 -61.744666445507853tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-28841988344090374332019-11-02T20:23:00.000-04:002019-11-02T20:57:26.870-04:00Boat Projects in GrenadaArgon summered in Grenada. Well, "summered" sounds much too leisurely considering the harsh conditions and the generous number of projects that took place. Soon I will fly south and check out the work first hand as we prepare to resume sailing for the winter.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
<div>
<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
</div>
<br />
<br />
It was with mixed feelings that we left <i>Argon </i>at Spice Island Marine Services (SIMS) six months ago. Although she was secure at a reputable boatyard and strapped down in a hurricane cradle, summer at latitude 12 can be brutal. The heat and UV can damage even the highest quality port hole stripping; torrential rains can work their way through the tightest seals and dorade covers; high winds that come with tropical storms will peel away anything not well secured. A positive aspect of these lower latitudes of the Caribbean is that hurricanes roar past to the north. Usually. <br />
<br />
<br />
We normally tackle boat projects ourselves. However, there were quite a few projects we had on our list and returning to Grenada over the summer for any length of time to tackle these jobs would not fit in with our work schedules. In addition, Grenada and SIMS have a strong reputation for yacht services and some particular expertise that matched our needs.<br />
<br />
The photos below have been sent to us courtesy SIMS over the past few months. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Special Projects</h3>
<br />
<h4>
Sexy Gooseneck </h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
</h4>
While sailing off shore, I often stress about the gooseneck. I have heard several stories of this important joint between the boom and the mast breaking while under sail which is dangerous on so many levels. To our surprise and dismay, we discovered a bit of play in our gooseneck last spring while anchored in Grenada, shortly before being hauled out for the summer.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDf3zUG5rrkYs1yE3QIw5mDgvP6hBFikr1UKnbSnJUL4rZB_9-JF8DQpEuTPslCjAFeadBGJs14ewKz_UbH8qkqQ0z2-UwJRNa-fKf85q1N6h3N5gP9LCXqYCtLuvMrA2JRBelvV8I6FE/s1600/20190316_3962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDf3zUG5rrkYs1yE3QIw5mDgvP6hBFikr1UKnbSnJUL4rZB_9-JF8DQpEuTPslCjAFeadBGJs14ewKz_UbH8qkqQ0z2-UwJRNa-fKf85q1N6h3N5gP9LCXqYCtLuvMrA2JRBelvV8I6FE/s320/20190316_3962.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before: Screws loosening from the carbon creating a bit of concerning play. Could have tried threaded inserts (may or may not have worked) or insert a backing plate up the mast (potentially not possible due to 12 feet up from base).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After consulting with the fine folks at <a href="http://turbulenceltd.com/" target="_blank">Turbulence, Ltd</a> we opted for a permanent high end solution... a custom fabricated carbon gooseneck leveraging the carbon expertise at Driftwood Yacht Services. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1LLnywgWN2ZAgeuTvvEISvXLDObWNxGC12wdFF9tfLNtmI0mgpP3RIQPmKyJVpR22X4FyijSI-tLQBEsTTzL8jg1vNnT2WIkTBxnl26E5C-HER6iiy-9gsNMig84Bgg1JTzq3a9bHoE/s1600/PHOTO-2019-10-09-10-40-49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="652" data-original-width="1156" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1LLnywgWN2ZAgeuTvvEISvXLDObWNxGC12wdFF9tfLNtmI0mgpP3RIQPmKyJVpR22X4FyijSI-tLQBEsTTzL8jg1vNnT2WIkTBxnl26E5C-HER6iiy-9gsNMig84Bgg1JTzq3a9bHoE/s320/PHOTO-2019-10-09-10-40-49.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carbon fabrication is a special skill and not available many places.
Grenada has some great expertise so we decided to go with what many sexy
racing sailboats have... carbon gooseneck. This creates an incredibly strong attachment point between the boom and the mast.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU92_0AHTt0HJa0Gyg6A9u0SBY8MFQrv4KOPGKuowIJAJxCHvORARPL8rOIlOcAR4JEyjUidDfO4rfOhdNj_DKV87ww3nL_BJUs8JhSQQj2P4zlE8S4aBvvNnU-d_sJZSW4I2Q70mptEw/s1600/00376a85-0a70-4534-ace7-4c17f0f059c6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="652" data-original-width="1156" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU92_0AHTt0HJa0Gyg6A9u0SBY8MFQrv4KOPGKuowIJAJxCHvORARPL8rOIlOcAR4JEyjUidDfO4rfOhdNj_DKV87ww3nL_BJUs8JhSQQj2P4zlE8S4aBvvNnU-d_sJZSW4I2Q70mptEw/s320/00376a85-0a70-4534-ace7-4c17f0f059c6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After: New carbon fiber gooseneck now painted.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h4>
Sleek Sail Track</h4>
Okay, another splurge. We did not really need a new sail track. But the mast was coming out and down for the gooseneck. The old Tide Marine sail track had tremendous use during her 5 short years and had a few areas showing a bit of play. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1kraGD7rwj8-qxQ9ALDnFWhvAC8-0USAORU4sDQsa9qRCtHWx-u1CsGbfzzE5voIqxbswM6x9pqLkX-qMbhHh93AKAp6ds4N58SMoBhAyCXVYKVYji19BRJwVisL0eM2D4GtKepATmw/s1600/IMG_20190731_153449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1kraGD7rwj8-qxQ9ALDnFWhvAC8-0USAORU4sDQsa9qRCtHWx-u1CsGbfzzE5voIqxbswM6x9pqLkX-qMbhHh93AKAp6ds4N58SMoBhAyCXVYKVYji19BRJwVisL0eM2D4GtKepATmw/s320/IMG_20190731_153449.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Harken sail track.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2MjZ3GQGQ1oBFD8B09-7TYHS9CijFxDWwmCV39hnzKLxaSu6mpb3LaLhkBRbHYC6ISHs4As9_yyzme9c4rzwL8Vyb6o96EbZ-ILihCSFGk8RzQPvpuUvorLIOi4UAffbGLqjxaotfjfw/s1600/IMG_20190731_153406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2MjZ3GQGQ1oBFD8B09-7TYHS9CijFxDWwmCV39hnzKLxaSu6mpb3LaLhkBRbHYC6ISHs4As9_yyzme9c4rzwL8Vyb6o96EbZ-ILihCSFGk8RzQPvpuUvorLIOi4UAffbGLqjxaotfjfw/s320/IMG_20190731_153406.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In addition to raising the main sail more smoothly, the new track may also allow the sail to completely drop and fold on itself when the haylard is released. The prior track was a bit sticky requiring one to go out on deck to completely pull it down and flake on the boom.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h4>
Crisp, Shapely Main Sail</h4>
Our main sail has a tremendous number of nautical miles to its name and was starting to loose shape negatively affecting performance. We considered trying to get through this coming winter with it but felt a tear during heavy weather might potentially be not only inconvenient but dangerous if well off shore. Thus a new main sail made the project list.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisFJbgU9bCJEy_Xxv0Oq96SjVgVagK3yJGtLcQFW9stlweifGVYoF0-suyfPbvMBg7_CX1ho9DQizZsPDDbmzprdcZyp1pI4XRKCDv4TUSdt_rflnL-Fy-FCW92CuVy1uo9PE-SweXE8I/s1600/20191030_105759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisFJbgU9bCJEy_Xxv0Oq96SjVgVagK3yJGtLcQFW9stlweifGVYoF0-suyfPbvMBg7_CX1ho9DQizZsPDDbmzprdcZyp1pI4XRKCDv4TUSdt_rflnL-Fy-FCW92CuVy1uo9PE-SweXE8I/s320/20191030_105759.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">512 sq feet of crisp, shapely Dacron made by Doyle with five full battens, four friction-less Antal donuts, two reef points and a partridge in a pear tree.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-aGo4YpttNRCFtYF7Tx8zIuKvZHdNXcM9KRN7qmOWQsvBzyvqEyPCEqqio-AOhH93T4P_O6OsYcFOTSGZN_2ATcwjPNK6j_7y72A-sAUNgybjlTAY2AJJuzU0qSTfompDkwKcrPnfSc/s1600/20191030_105756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-aGo4YpttNRCFtYF7Tx8zIuKvZHdNXcM9KRN7qmOWQsvBzyvqEyPCEqqio-AOhH93T4P_O6OsYcFOTSGZN_2ATcwjPNK6j_7y72A-sAUNgybjlTAY2AJJuzU0qSTfompDkwKcrPnfSc/s320/20191030_105756.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice new cars for to glide up the new, smooth Harken track.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
Routine Maintenance Projects</h3>
<br />
<h4>
Varnishing</h4>
Back in February while docked in St. Lucia, we took advantage of the local expertise to have Argon's teak completely stripped and new varnish applied converting from the prior Awlwood (Awlgrip product) to the more common Epiphanes. A bit of this varnishing work is in the video below.<br />
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A few more maintenance coats were needed to keep the finish strong.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXFdIO4nlBPoIZ1I0lBkkXgkgCFsbVKRy20ZHaRFxM9TWNbTJVWy8XfTbc-IrxphTUxe85l8RjEhNstQsBOYTAM-hX6nSSW2fj9e-wCMQfrGneozF44_Pf6StxskiRHvPn_m5hsqLfPgA/s1600/PHOTO-2019-09-04-13-35-53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="652" data-original-width="1156" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXFdIO4nlBPoIZ1I0lBkkXgkgCFsbVKRy20ZHaRFxM9TWNbTJVWy8XfTbc-IrxphTUxe85l8RjEhNstQsBOYTAM-hX6nSSW2fj9e-wCMQfrGneozF44_Pf6StxskiRHvPn_m5hsqLfPgA/s320/PHOTO-2019-09-04-13-35-53.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5QNOId9uJZtJLfRxKMuRn1BIkcwOL4G2jSNEpT9otZWUQ594DI3VprGpE9ob9DkTi9HpY0EhWiYyEyATXBMa-1IodwLhnfCr4q-2tb_w30SRNjRtNk24E2Nhsg6Z5gJpAeaa47IidkI/s1600/PHOTO-2019-09-04-13-35-56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="652" data-original-width="1156" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5QNOId9uJZtJLfRxKMuRn1BIkcwOL4G2jSNEpT9otZWUQ594DI3VprGpE9ob9DkTi9HpY0EhWiYyEyATXBMa-1IodwLhnfCr4q-2tb_w30SRNjRtNk24E2Nhsg6Z5gJpAeaa47IidkI/s320/PHOTO-2019-09-04-13-35-56.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Varnishing with Epiphanes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Varnishing work in St. Lucia:<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sR4bkUQETdo" width="560"></iframe>
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<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
Bottom Painting</h4>
Anti-fouling bottom paint is a must to prevent a sea garden from sprouting greatly reducing the speed. We regularly snorkel along and under Argon to brush and scrub off grown that the paint does not prevent. Argon was last painted in Portsmouth Rhode Island at New England Boatworks in April 2018 at that time using Petit Hydrocoat. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAcJmPgeWsBu0cBI_j4ErXMWvwZm1kG1JlOBohY0tMUbnn30hCjaMGc3knnfDRMWdsPo4qQT3loVo_3PfmESYqpWHygK2xEgUbANmJkBFS64HQGSgZk4lkHBOQmCI_LCgyJrf1Lv7KeZU/s1600/Image2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAcJmPgeWsBu0cBI_j4ErXMWvwZm1kG1JlOBohY0tMUbnn30hCjaMGc3knnfDRMWdsPo4qQT3loVo_3PfmESYqpWHygK2xEgUbANmJkBFS64HQGSgZk4lkHBOQmCI_LCgyJrf1Lv7KeZU/s320/Image2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scrubbing the bottom of the keel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK-wCGQ6hhUqnhqad4ZQYoQDhDfWWeIURcPwCjscpSerrg9dB5gTu5rst-ALedOM-qQpy_4OQyebsvOavrVeBxaz_6czpz-WJGoVwtKXP8tqoIyDqkV_DgbXt8WaJJHvbqTXBJMYK6z1E/s1600/PHOTO-2019-10-18-15-27-29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="652" data-original-width="1156" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK-wCGQ6hhUqnhqad4ZQYoQDhDfWWeIURcPwCjscpSerrg9dB5gTu5rst-ALedOM-qQpy_4OQyebsvOavrVeBxaz_6czpz-WJGoVwtKXP8tqoIyDqkV_DgbXt8WaJJHvbqTXBJMYK6z1E/s320/PHOTO-2019-10-18-15-27-29.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New bottom paint: Islands 44TF deemed compatible with Argon's prior Petit Hydrocoat but better for warm Caribbean waters.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlPuGjIoBusBD5sGu4O4YGahbHCZg39NqCwigxgq-p2lPMJ6hkstjfIvcHR2NsrV_s3GvFfOxJWZdEztpTG27jXMfIvuPKpjTSS1hTCTVbm2nQ-yf4PkEwpPkMTD-zhiCvFLRXNMM13k/s1600/PHOTO-2019-10-18-15-27-30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="652" data-original-width="1156" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlPuGjIoBusBD5sGu4O4YGahbHCZg39NqCwigxgq-p2lPMJ6hkstjfIvcHR2NsrV_s3GvFfOxJWZdEztpTG27jXMfIvuPKpjTSS1hTCTVbm2nQ-yf4PkEwpPkMTD-zhiCvFLRXNMM13k/s320/PHOTO-2019-10-18-15-27-30.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We will still need to regularly snorkel and scrub to keep the bottom clean, but fresh paint will greatly facilitate the job.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h4>
Waxing of Topsides and Deck</h4>
Ok, this project was me being totally lazy. I normally do the waxing but decided to splurge and have Argon nice and shiny for when I arrive.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpkQ8_w6dqWg0eExrjvlackUK6Cv3DMHU6p0Qp8lyi9jjoICaTwX3jtXuDa9veBWPkJw3n1l2ehXj61BbbZ1hKI_rozJs8h6Nvi0jA1USiAoKh1LsFvuwTcwYmcCczwWoCMLiV2VsJ5H0/s1600/PHOTO-2019-10-18-15-27-30+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1156" data-original-width="652" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpkQ8_w6dqWg0eExrjvlackUK6Cv3DMHU6p0Qp8lyi9jjoICaTwX3jtXuDa9veBWPkJw3n1l2ehXj61BbbZ1hKI_rozJs8h6Nvi0jA1USiAoKh1LsFvuwTcwYmcCczwWoCMLiV2VsJ5H0/s320/PHOTO-2019-10-18-15-27-30+%25281%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New shiny wax.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h4>
Bimini - in progress, critical for our solar panels</h4>
The bimini is an important piece of canvas needed not only to protect from sun and rain, but also as a platform for 250 watts via the flexible solar panels. Argon's bimini has had a few patches and repeat waterproofing treatments but, alas, it no longer protects us from getting wet and soon would likely start tearing. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhw5-gzz60OkMpIY5EY6hXKoUdLdEHW_7_2XRnKvLuOcVuxCEyTz9nuP6xPjL9XrkSODDLwSCWm-E7yT8mt0bLtApTocej2kQxJJWzUq1Uk2vdZeaZVXTN6cyQq1w-3peb9YCNFtYDbaQ/s1600/20190219_095229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1487" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhw5-gzz60OkMpIY5EY6hXKoUdLdEHW_7_2XRnKvLuOcVuxCEyTz9nuP6xPjL9XrkSODDLwSCWm-E7yT8mt0bLtApTocej2kQxJJWzUq1Uk2vdZeaZVXTN6cyQq1w-3peb9YCNFtYDbaQ/s320/20190219_095229.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solar panels zip in to both the bimini and dodger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
No photos of the new bimini since it is not yet done and our canvas guy is off island for a bit. I am a bit nervous about the timing as Argon will soon be launched and we will be back out at anchor and in need of power. Stay tuned.<br />
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<h4>
Dinghy Tending</h4>
The dinghy is critical as we spend so much time at anchor and need a way to get to shore. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit-Sa79lOiilrzd6BAf0QClxn37OeobLuGIg07OEp9NU8Ud8VCrqdxIo1C4mM9xjp-RAKj_njDydBe04shjX8vonb9t2555zUGzpDM6koZ-o2FGuAOOpddMqpd2x5nVuDnvHjMJxI1eDo/s1600/20181219_1541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit-Sa79lOiilrzd6BAf0QClxn37OeobLuGIg07OEp9NU8Ud8VCrqdxIo1C4mM9xjp-RAKj_njDydBe04shjX8vonb9t2555zUGzpDM6koZ-o2FGuAOOpddMqpd2x5nVuDnvHjMJxI1eDo/s320/20181219_1541.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon's shuttle craft: AB 9"foot aluminum V bottom hypalon dinghy with 6hp Tohatsu outboard.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The UV is brutal on dinghies so we decided to outfit Argon with some protection.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUd-OqmedZongZiZmEzenAn-Hl_MowZIyW-jy60SVVWyr8cesL2rs4cIS_WGojHL-SeBeIyhYo9Lq_kA86UwrjulFzL8cHTH_cJzcmpfBzIv4V-yj-0eorLafLDetPCk51By4_FQivw1k/s1600/IMG-20191004-WA0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="1032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUd-OqmedZongZiZmEzenAn-Hl_MowZIyW-jy60SVVWyr8cesL2rs4cIS_WGojHL-SeBeIyhYo9Lq_kA86UwrjulFzL8cHTH_cJzcmpfBzIv4V-yj-0eorLafLDetPCk51By4_FQivw1k/s320/IMG-20191004-WA0007.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunscreen for the dinghy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
SIMS will also spruce up the outboard motor: clean the carburetor, check the impellor, change the zincs.<br />
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<h3>
Communication</h3>
A major frustration all summer has been trying to get information on the plans and status of projects. The laid back island pace combined with a culture heavily reliant on in person communication has been a hassle and even led to a few projects coming off the list because we could not get anyone to confirm any details (re-fabrication of bow chocks, minor repair to stern rail, and head cabinet modification). A response to an e mail would normally come only after 2 or 3 attempts and 1-2 weeks. Several times I received 4 figure invoices via e mail with no explanation of specifics or photos of the work performed.<br />
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Bob has recently arrived in Grenada and has started to assess the work. Preliminary reports are mostly good but with some issues. I look forward to soon seeing the above projects first hand in just a couple of days. <br />
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-44826912253722887102019-10-26T20:02:00.000-04:002019-10-27T07:21:31.096-04:00Jamestown Yacht Club PresentationWe had the privileged of being invited to speak at an event organized by the Jamestown Yacht Club (JYC) recently.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
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<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
</div>
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We are members of the <a href="https://bluewatersc.clubexpress.com/content.aspx?sl=1493058306" target="_blank">Blue Water Sailing Club</a> (BWSC) and are part of the BWSC Speakers Bureau. <a href="http://www.jyc.org/" target="_blank">JYC </a>stumbled upon our topic when reviewing options advertised. We happily arranged to meet with the kind folks one Sunday afternoon at the Jamestown (Rhode Island) Philomenia Library. This library has a sophisticated media room with a full wall screen, great acoustics, and helpful staff that allowed us to test everything in advance. We had no problems toggling between slide show, photo real, and videos.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDXbSGbppRF1fn2YgKtIhpZmQdXJrYMmO2UQY2oLlgezNOYt299Q7ASiX5xNlj1u60UVLT1ZbZYidD1fXrnnZGY4t5onZTbu5dAaMfgqSmiYRR5YUN2FKzIJUaGcyu_Zper2nRDxvC-8/s1600/P1080156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDXbSGbppRF1fn2YgKtIhpZmQdXJrYMmO2UQY2oLlgezNOYt299Q7ASiX5xNlj1u60UVLT1ZbZYidD1fXrnnZGY4t5onZTbu5dAaMfgqSmiYRR5YUN2FKzIJUaGcyu_Zper2nRDxvC-8/s320/P1080156.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fantastic media room at the Philomenia Library in Jamestown, Rhode Island (USA) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We have spoken about preparing for off-shore sailing and extended cruising at several other events ever since returning from our first Caribbean journey in mid 2017. We always adjust, add and hopefully improve each presentation.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoSx_xaxYWRLYB7Y2_GyCR4dZVs8sm3gX1vqp_0MLobxkaiH2MJ13yjNYMCMq1d41tWRSSY_AFkvj71LPFrNjuKyVXlHG1wKnb_5B5woLxK0NTadBcXdLXnaftpncQcwme3_MbJNbbC4/s1600/P1080117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoSx_xaxYWRLYB7Y2_GyCR4dZVs8sm3gX1vqp_0MLobxkaiH2MJ13yjNYMCMq1d41tWRSSY_AFkvj71LPFrNjuKyVXlHG1wKnb_5B5woLxK0NTadBcXdLXnaftpncQcwme3_MbJNbbC4/s320/P1080117.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was not that long ago that we were in the audience listening and on the planning side of our first extended voyage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Many assume that we, or at least one of us, grew up sailing. But we are late in life sailors having both first stepping foot on a sailboat in 2006. Our mutual love of sailing, effective partnership on the water, and some luck has enabled us to have broad and deep experiences over this relatively short period.<br />
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Some of the topics that seem to generate the most discussion include:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/11/offshore-newport-bermuda.html" target="_blank">preparing for and experiences off-shore</a></li>
<li>energy</li>
<li>water management</li>
<li><a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/08/data-tips-again.html" target="_blank">data </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2017/01/saba-incredible-and-impossible.html" target="_blank">favorite islands</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2017/07/cruising-recap-cost-of-cruising.html" target="_blank">how much does cruising cost </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2016/04/the-three-year-plan.html" target="_blank">how to downsize / prepare to live aboard </a></li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjol_1FcrVmKmWCjPFppYcCeb2BEnT6YAd26GrDw31v5lHdRvFDpQMdlqdZfB0BCSmkOlcgJYz-gqG_BVWqwoaPtbbnLVWq_W8xVSeL1btLeK2GiCZ-r2qE3EMQYaq2oO0qc1WnbSa7P68/s1600/P1080173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjol_1FcrVmKmWCjPFppYcCeb2BEnT6YAd26GrDw31v5lHdRvFDpQMdlqdZfB0BCSmkOlcgJYz-gqG_BVWqwoaPtbbnLVWq_W8xVSeL1btLeK2GiCZ-r2qE3EMQYaq2oO0qc1WnbSa7P68/s320/P1080173.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the discussions are about what went wrong, how we handled issues and what we learned</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Sharing our experiences, learnings, and mistakes as well as to meet other sailors and hear about their journeys, dreams and plans is extremely enjoyable. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtuVgA85DKbDmeuj7BZHaa7UHvClzZJx17V2UiBx7BjvhG5fCGDHyl77Z3C-u7LTgT_udBD7KZ9cNzmavVqiJ-cBGxcl7Yy33eKutqs-AbeJvwGjSLiVZCaO0U2TVwIswGdh2TkPMb9c/s1600/P1080197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtuVgA85DKbDmeuj7BZHaa7UHvClzZJx17V2UiBx7BjvhG5fCGDHyl77Z3C-u7LTgT_udBD7KZ9cNzmavVqiJ-cBGxcl7Yy33eKutqs-AbeJvwGjSLiVZCaO0U2TVwIswGdh2TkPMb9c/s320/P1080197.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob and I tag team the presentation and discussion</td></tr>
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This talk was only a couple of weeks before our departure to Grenada to start our third extended sailing trip in the Caribbean. We have been extremely engrossed in our land lives with busy day jobs, house logistics and lots of social engagements. Preparing for this session really helped us to get more in to the mind set of cruising again as we rapidly approach our departure day!<br />
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-23838918677511247222019-10-10T22:14:00.001-04:002019-10-13T12:24:58.554-04:00Aquatic Snowbirds (Again)Just as the weather is starting to turn colder, we are preparing to migrate southward for our third winter cruising the Caribbean. This time, however, we are able to start off by skipping the difficult, lengthy off shore passages and just hop on a plane.<br />
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<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
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We left Argon in Grenada this past April for the summer hauled out, strapped down in a hurricane cradle, and with a punch list of projects to be handled locally on the island. Oddly, we have been boat-less for a summer in New England. Our only association with Argon for five months has been through forced e mails, an occasional reluctant photo, or an eager invoice from the shipyard or a contractor in Grenada. More on the learnings and challenges related to these boat projects in a later post.<br />
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Our lives have been strangely normal and exceptionally satisfying spending time in our home in Newport, Rhode Island (USA) as well as lots of traveling to Boston, Massachusetts for work (including renting an apartment in nearby Lexington for several months - thank you, Helene!).<br />
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When not working, <a href="http://rockscience.net/" target="_blank">Bob has his studio up and running</a> with some sexy new gear. And he has enjoyed starting to record some great local talent. There have been a fair number of brown boxes with new equipment arriving and he has enjoyed setting everything up on this cool <a href="http://rockscience.net/blog/new-diy-studio-desk" target="_blank">studio console that he built in the garage</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg009CiVjGgpPSXqVEnLdsMc5iqKkAUmKIJcvgOwNbdX6tlEDo-oC-49C3-mzTBku1MhK1ZbgDZsvfVyxyoPxF_3p6wbH-y1C7gt59XEBCuMgoFF2JbudZnYu5ZBjeEDD2J0KHcY6hDPsI/s1600/P1070853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="1200" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg009CiVjGgpPSXqVEnLdsMc5iqKkAUmKIJcvgOwNbdX6tlEDo-oC-49C3-mzTBku1MhK1ZbgDZsvfVyxyoPxF_3p6wbH-y1C7gt59XEBCuMgoFF2JbudZnYu5ZBjeEDD2J0KHcY6hDPsI/s320/P1070853.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob's man cave.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdCwAYDn8erWOwFvba7LptNybPpUUyrjK6pjy5ghDlYjXC3dhQ6O1lLL-47fq9KLj9yGxQs4ewMl6wbeVkr5b-bvB3Ne_u6D2XYqhY5JkZlvgnR-dGJZnkYhsKOmJ42YKGRUI8Y0I-ec/s1600/20190802_145653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="855" data-original-width="1140" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdCwAYDn8erWOwFvba7LptNybPpUUyrjK6pjy5ghDlYjXC3dhQ6O1lLL-47fq9KLj9yGxQs4ewMl6wbeVkr5b-bvB3Ne_u6D2XYqhY5JkZlvgnR-dGJZnkYhsKOmJ42YKGRUI8Y0I-ec/s320/20190802_145653.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fasnet Pub Session Band.</td></tr>
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I am loving my career shift as an <a href="http://www.perryclinicaloperations.com/" target="_blank">independent consultant </a>and despite slightly over-committed myself to work this summer, have managed to schedule in lots of wonderful visits with family and friends.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2Zg7mSpSncPmSPEwpj2YsdaodHfKelGAdSR-67SFe2DBCsfYJQdIAU2Xd4bUnyKTS9QOn5GomWCpAb3l14bj49-a4A3BKqNzphPQTVgjn17c2BqtJxbPdLJLG4b3kva_kjltpYq9nUk/s1600/20190615_4715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="1600" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2Zg7mSpSncPmSPEwpj2YsdaodHfKelGAdSR-67SFe2DBCsfYJQdIAU2Xd4bUnyKTS9QOn5GomWCpAb3l14bj49-a4A3BKqNzphPQTVgjn17c2BqtJxbPdLJLG4b3kva_kjltpYq9nUk/s320/20190615_4715.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great to have the three boys (and two of their three SO's) with us in Newport in June!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-kJmv5keFED215RFQvvv4maKS_RPBylxCc84zMqgH-t5pMhwNt349YmpRfbFbvrximkBc8Msvxy7S-dH8OFJcS6fSvCShDjIp624FDfMDlooEmE0NlimLAnnhFD1fiKn548vAr723SE/s1600/20190608_132418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-kJmv5keFED215RFQvvv4maKS_RPBylxCc84zMqgH-t5pMhwNt349YmpRfbFbvrximkBc8Msvxy7S-dH8OFJcS6fSvCShDjIp624FDfMDlooEmE0NlimLAnnhFD1fiKn548vAr723SE/s320/20190608_132418.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My only sail of the entire summer.... Rhodes 19 with Lori and Todd. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7lw1EDlfQcEIdGId3Dgi9ScyVkZQ79-6_GUbRkxa-qEaM9WL8_eTOWiz8FzrlAxTaFg2XdNhWfn4RnUOMoOZRrBn7aGyBWGRX7gADY9IGDy0YreNp5FZPEXN0EAPwgvNHjB_6i4kIOY/s1600/20190718_072025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1101" data-original-width="1600" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7lw1EDlfQcEIdGId3Dgi9ScyVkZQ79-6_GUbRkxa-qEaM9WL8_eTOWiz8FzrlAxTaFg2XdNhWfn4RnUOMoOZRrBn7aGyBWGRX7gADY9IGDy0YreNp5FZPEXN0EAPwgvNHjB_6i4kIOY/s320/20190718_072025.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun weekend in DC with Kelly and the little ones!</td></tr>
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My woman cave is coming along quite nicely. I have enjoyed tending to my flowers and shrubs, luring a myriad of birds, and killing invasive voles (well, I have not enjoyed the killing).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwxl-zBfv59CYa7d5f-fDTttCMW5uHc8VvyY9Ea5D8OeFVeSimFrbmaq3Hkuw3yoP0vHeW2ggOve2aJg54Fgj6vRJ0NCA3VKI3VSCmpwkM3zhXUZUqtR6CPl7q0d84FN4FKme8pUZ2nE/s1600/20190623_065416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwxl-zBfv59CYa7d5f-fDTttCMW5uHc8VvyY9Ea5D8OeFVeSimFrbmaq3Hkuw3yoP0vHeW2ggOve2aJg54Fgj6vRJ0NCA3VKI3VSCmpwkM3zhXUZUqtR6CPl7q0d84FN4FKme8pUZ2nE/s320/20190623_065416.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda's woman cave... Patio completed, new plants in, flowers eventually bloomed!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFy5-_3Aic27H18UKmtxi5ykLhVCyBP4SCt-82hS6AGuCJe1pFI1A-JPB2jTRDEWOp7NDuDDdeNuxMMZERoTlESpeZBWQly1NmEEafySZSZQFH0Q2M13VHcW9eCBY7Mxcl4QexUYcsg38/s1600/20190617_4748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFy5-_3Aic27H18UKmtxi5ykLhVCyBP4SCt-82hS6AGuCJe1pFI1A-JPB2jTRDEWOp7NDuDDdeNuxMMZERoTlESpeZBWQly1NmEEafySZSZQFH0Q2M13VHcW9eCBY7Mxcl4QexUYcsg38/s320/20190617_4748.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have also loved getting in to an invigorating rhythm of ocean swimming. The water temp requires a wet suit at this time of year thus I may have only a few more swims in me before I cave in to the cold. Soon the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean will be part of my regular winter routine.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggn74ac2cgFL6SPiZFFFFDOawZKRwa3IeWb2QgTyW5UivzL-5reCoY1lDkuUOBoIDJWAFuLbJbY9JkJVUVDdCd7TZhG3OSWzobpJveYrfzkTAq-oAmEueSzhfEh-hKi7suPcatbboURQ8/s1600/FB_IMG_1570979713531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="631" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggn74ac2cgFL6SPiZFFFFDOawZKRwa3IeWb2QgTyW5UivzL-5reCoY1lDkuUOBoIDJWAFuLbJbY9JkJVUVDdCd7TZhG3OSWzobpJveYrfzkTAq-oAmEueSzhfEh-hKi7suPcatbboURQ8/s320/FB_IMG_1570979713531.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recent cold water swim in Jamestown, RI (USA).</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4cZASE3QT21DsAvf3zdiL5c-f8swPQIDxW2WwL6xu_24L0QNtjetXkI8DaZT2IcIYiA7VWa6prs2J_wmBWpFhwgNTnw7-8H5LsJDDwbsjUobvWkqsPWNzxhnD8wDthoNWNtugsfHhORg/s1600/71183374_101575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="516" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4cZASE3QT21DsAvf3zdiL5c-f8swPQIDxW2WwL6xu_24L0QNtjetXkI8DaZT2IcIYiA7VWa6prs2J_wmBWpFhwgNTnw7-8H5LsJDDwbsjUobvWkqsPWNzxhnD8wDthoNWNtugsfHhORg/s320/71183374_101575.jpg" width="172" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical swim track. This one was 2000 yards in 63F (burr!).</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSKdY2koZjpwUc8nue-F_laHRVQn_VW7e0FZcSegRL0B2GK-jpUmYk7RyGhu9dyI1WpQFXDtt-NYjNwyYIJLoBPRKb9yo_uZpskU02KQO7rnLb-YH5JE6hl1LBWFY9fnLyiD7D41XZOI/s1600/20181222_1640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSKdY2koZjpwUc8nue-F_laHRVQn_VW7e0FZcSegRL0B2GK-jpUmYk7RyGhu9dyI1WpQFXDtt-NYjNwyYIJLoBPRKb9yo_uZpskU02KQO7rnLb-YH5JE6hl1LBWFY9fnLyiD7D41XZOI/s320/20181222_1640.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning swim in Freeman's Bay English Harbor, Antigua last winter.</td></tr>
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Now we focus our attention on tending to various life logistics as we prepare to be away for 7 or 8 months. <br />
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Both Bob and I will again work while we cruise. Reliable internet connection has been a learning process - check out <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/08/data-tips-again.html" target="_blank">past blogs</a> on our trials and tribulations to feed our data needs. This winter we will be trying Google-Fi. We will be sure to provide an update on a future post. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc23co9nAHko9n9F5ZnhUurMZndYE2jAutMM4Eruk8BWN29g_NcfySI9Xl7rsfCGIyz7haFvXK_R09-z15mFUKsRTj7Mg0JFKXuXaHuBL7nCUrLlwZ7JC-1Y5NTWS-GwprKr1iMoN2yPk/s1600/20190319_092941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc23co9nAHko9n9F5ZnhUurMZndYE2jAutMM4Eruk8BWN29g_NcfySI9Xl7rsfCGIyz7haFvXK_R09-z15mFUKsRTj7Mg0JFKXuXaHuBL7nCUrLlwZ7JC-1Y5NTWS-GwprKr1iMoN2yPk/s320/20190319_092941.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my remote office settings last winter. This gives WFH a new meaning (Anse La Roche, Carriacou).</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYXZ9sAth0Yhl8MoXhUy2tyQQIL6HIsUsGDLCai8FSI2HcAg8YxV7yzIkhEYPPo2SeHix_cRm4NHcyBRd1P253YDLGyW2783t5Dj-g7lmZKbC5PBcvNMcZzv4ZCGjccmotdkfPMZIZReo/s1600/20181128_121210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYXZ9sAth0Yhl8MoXhUy2tyQQIL6HIsUsGDLCai8FSI2HcAg8YxV7yzIkhEYPPo2SeHix_cRm4NHcyBRd1P253YDLGyW2783t5Dj-g7lmZKbC5PBcvNMcZzv4ZCGjccmotdkfPMZIZReo/s320/20181128_121210.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But sometimes our WFH set up is more mundane (Antigua outside a local market).</td></tr>
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I am committing myself to resume sailing related writing during this coming trip as last winter I was woefully remiss. Most writing will be in the form of reigniting this blog. I have an objective to create frequent short blogs... let's see how this goes. <br />
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Bob will fly to Grenada in just two and a half weeks. I will follow a week later. And we will both happily transition once again to life aboard s/v Argon!!<br />
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<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-29755159133059050712019-07-21T09:18:00.002-04:002019-07-21T13:48:05.372-04:00The Sandwich Cruise: Caribbean 2018-2019<br />
Our Caribbean cruise in 2018-2019 was very sandwich shaped. Delicious in the middle but with some not so fresh bread on the outsides. This cruise definitely reminded us that this lifestyle is not all fun and games and this time in particular had some very difficult bits.<br />
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<img height="36px" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--7ESi4mJKMc/VonLI8VAFjI/AAAAAAAATxA/Ja-wE6H4s0c/s144-Ic42/P1010491.JPG" /></div>
Capt. Bob
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<h3>
Long time, no Blog </h3>
The blogging machine has been grinding very slowly since we took off. There are a few reasons for that. Mainly, the primary blogger (Linda) made the foolish decision to work about ten hours per week for one of her consulting clients. Coincidentally, ten hours a week is about what she used to spend on the blog. Secondly, I worked <i>more</i> hours per week this time than last time. So we were both pretty starved for time to spend blogging. We did manage to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeMkVb1knTT2NZXNE873nPA?sub_confirmation=1" target="_blank">produce a few videos </a>during this time however. Lastly, the tough situation at the end of the cruise - the other moldy piece of bread in this sandwich (see below), pretty much wiped me out from doing <i>anything </i>(besides my day job) and so Linda ended up with a huge logistics workload - just as we were preparing to get the boat settled into Grenada. So this one will be a bit long, but with lots of pictures!<br />
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Anyway, the tough piece of bread at the front end of the cruise involved us having a <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/11/offshore-newport-bermuda.html">rig failure on the way to Bermuda</a>.The root cause was a failed weld, causing our outer head stay to detach from the mast during the passage. That cascaded into finding that our inner stay also had a broken wire on it. With boats, the closer you look, the more broken stuff you will find.<br />
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After Consulting rigging Professionals in Bermuda and Antigua as well as the awesome guys from Tartan, we ended up <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2019/02/argon-rig-repair.html">re-engineering the attachment points for the stays</a> (with drawings provided by Tartan). This led to quite a bit of delay and expense in Bermuda and Antigua.<br />
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<h3>
Worse Places To Be Trapped</h3>
Fortunately, we were able to make partial repairs in Bermuda and get
Argon in shape to make the <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/11/a-slow-boat-to-antigua.html">thousand nautical mile passage south to Antigua</a>. Most of the repair time was therefore spent in Antigua - which is not a bad thing.<br />
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No doubt, we <i>love</i> Antigua. Overall, it is probably our favorite place in the Caribbean. For some reason, we didn't mind being stranded there for seven weeks, and we kept ourselves occupied exploring, hiking and... working our day jobs.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpCJvLpKGzy5HcBLmyytYvaujjNWgVbY7X7evD5UmeEEHlOKQvaQzIIqeUYoKKB0RNI7H8q6BYLwyZpgeGwAunIrHe7lndlxE5hjeKySIWkCLEybkCNaIsM9lhJHsL16g4N81VfuNINI/s1600/20181202_1350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpCJvLpKGzy5HcBLmyytYvaujjNWgVbY7X7evD5UmeEEHlOKQvaQzIIqeUYoKKB0RNI7H8q6BYLwyZpgeGwAunIrHe7lndlxE5hjeKySIWkCLEybkCNaIsM9lhJHsL16g4N81VfuNINI/s400/20181202_1350.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everyone takes this shot from Shirley Heights. Argon is anchored down there in Freeman Bay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We mostly sat anchored in the same spot in Freeman Bay at English Harbor. For weeks, the hook never moved from the spot we dropped it after arriving from Bermuda. We did manage to make a trip around to Jolly Harbor (meh) and Five Islands Bay (thumbs up!) while we were waiting for <a href="https://antiguarigging.com/" target="_blank">Antigua Rigging </a>to get to us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyzC6V1Wz7yJKzounN_Y6MdpaxoJ2L2sBs8zJj8bMRD_GD7Xd7YoN-Tl_ha-l2vTv3_QNcyqVyVbSdmCuJuwtHcZ8PnsAE_Wz3Hy9C9lkkuEIgISjFrCcMlAxDp55ofPh3hCrigva30Y/s1600/20181211_1439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyzC6V1Wz7yJKzounN_Y6MdpaxoJ2L2sBs8zJj8bMRD_GD7Xd7YoN-Tl_ha-l2vTv3_QNcyqVyVbSdmCuJuwtHcZ8PnsAE_Wz3Hy9C9lkkuEIgISjFrCcMlAxDp55ofPh3hCrigva30Y/s400/20181211_1439.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silhouette of Linda enjoying an adult beverage at Five Islands</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiOAbVDmEHSm8NvHKp7Q5Dj4kpHLXTDYy1g_8p2usf9NZQOfrSbSBdMxnHsaiCajjxLps9Xng3bH7myknPCCd6ZAo3lMULcJR4R_HzYKunWUoeTYozwo4rjS6bQA0M7JhrR6jqYXvCq9w/s1600/20181222_1691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiOAbVDmEHSm8NvHKp7Q5Dj4kpHLXTDYy1g_8p2usf9NZQOfrSbSBdMxnHsaiCajjxLps9Xng3bH7myknPCCd6ZAo3lMULcJR4R_HzYKunWUoeTYozwo4rjS6bQA0M7JhrR6jqYXvCq9w/s400/20181222_1691.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And that sunset over Montserrat never got old</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKweCIk3kAOJsCgOoN_9GhMcA4bHdBCgSv8Q2ZiMbapLXgE4R48LV-vMFMQ-7xShuKN3_CdeEugSp3paO_mN-VRSDxrr6NrXsdNhM_NLyUwb8P8PMzwL8HlqH9mURpZWGoh6DtQwFnyWs/s1600/20181226_1750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKweCIk3kAOJsCgOoN_9GhMcA4bHdBCgSv8Q2ZiMbapLXgE4R48LV-vMFMQ-7xShuKN3_CdeEugSp3paO_mN-VRSDxrr6NrXsdNhM_NLyUwb8P8PMzwL8HlqH9mURpZWGoh6DtQwFnyWs/s400/20181226_1750.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Argon synchronized diving team</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Canvas Work</h3>
As long as we were sitting in Antigua waiting for our rig to be repaired, we got a few projects done. Our sail cover was getting a little long in the tooth. So we visited our old friends at <a href="https://www.afsails.com/" target="_blank">A&F Sails</a> and asked them to make a nice new cover. (They did some nice work for us in 2016 also.) <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMD9kugSSj8-Xf0WPAIT-_QjcUcMoW8pfRC7rbTHpcTqCAxihV5ozeeaEMBAo0BhXjmmgakhJhfP6t_qlqSw-O_hdah2PrinSyTfIfHHY8szkp8S3Q6MGL7-GsuVUS711zDETr4He9zIY/s1600/20190114_122627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMD9kugSSj8-Xf0WPAIT-_QjcUcMoW8pfRC7rbTHpcTqCAxihV5ozeeaEMBAo0BhXjmmgakhJhfP6t_qlqSw-O_hdah2PrinSyTfIfHHY8szkp8S3Q6MGL7-GsuVUS711zDETr4He9zIY/s400/20190114_122627.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Franklin, from A&F Sails posing proudly with his work</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Family Visits</h3>
Sailors can say when or where, but not both. Still, we managed to get Linda's son and his girlfriend Britney to come and visit while we were in Antigua. They had joined us last time in Antigua, and enjoyed it enough to come again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaeSXfk_YawYKYKMYu2QFKS-RCAvPz3Pf2B24aj0MwEsUye9mv9byvqwwifSjb5oTiSlX00nCqtXphSmc-YA8SQl9xlEEb42OaVcjpMDSYKoVl48dJplxI9xCclFChlpjYvSSwZFCUGA/s1600/20190106_005411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaeSXfk_YawYKYKMYu2QFKS-RCAvPz3Pf2B24aj0MwEsUye9mv9byvqwwifSjb5oTiSlX00nCqtXphSmc-YA8SQl9xlEEb42OaVcjpMDSYKoVl48dJplxI9xCclFChlpjYvSSwZFCUGA/s400/20190106_005411.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christian and Britney getting a lift from Manix out to the anchorage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
And more visitors</h3>
Linda's bestest friend in the whole wide world, Lori flew down to spend a few days with us. Lori and her husband Todd are budding sailors themselves and were looking after our house back home in Newport. It was the least we could do. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Nh9rkDiTWPKof0oYe_Pk0eHwxsVNXFyuiDaFOemB58_jjSUXyJr6XAnnF8ThrbHtl_XcFm3rzNhYrB1L62-evPQnQVzLfoQ2oJq5vlJsYc3d0PUPTsL4NApXapzCx2OYumt5RWCFS-U/s1600/20181219_1540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Nh9rkDiTWPKof0oYe_Pk0eHwxsVNXFyuiDaFOemB58_jjSUXyJr6XAnnF8ThrbHtl_XcFm3rzNhYrB1L62-evPQnQVzLfoQ2oJq5vlJsYc3d0PUPTsL4NApXapzCx2OYumt5RWCFS-U/s400/20181219_1540.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taxi service to Argon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Eventually, the substantial repairs to our rig were started and completed and we were free to go (after paying for it all of course)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqbBMTQ8b2KLdWSfwcep4N0Udxwmr_bCX3phh-O0uRLOOGakGpyCrtZ8wcdc2Lg4Mczu7lp0leelWwQ2MYoTqjHE4W3oYdVDs5i977jLVKbJggqIWBIN4vlooyzsEfF7jk369b2LueWO8/s1600/20190111_2044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqbBMTQ8b2KLdWSfwcep4N0Udxwmr_bCX3phh-O0uRLOOGakGpyCrtZ8wcdc2Lg4Mczu7lp0leelWwQ2MYoTqjHE4W3oYdVDs5i977jLVKbJggqIWBIN4vlooyzsEfF7jk369b2LueWO8/s400/20190111_2044.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Top</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHL4gGWsrIx5y08ScwcQ-rFSigHBvz3RuYwSXUp_9tqfUiQaNN0rEgNLMTIGIOiS803APpKMVjkYbtSXNPV8Kz2UflwAapUlawPKodRS9NNepaC7MLtXiFxmLn7hFiXaoIAWWwJA5EXbM/s1600/20190111_2056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHL4gGWsrIx5y08ScwcQ-rFSigHBvz3RuYwSXUp_9tqfUiQaNN0rEgNLMTIGIOiS803APpKMVjkYbtSXNPV8Kz2UflwAapUlawPKodRS9NNepaC7MLtXiFxmLn7hFiXaoIAWWwJA5EXbM/s400/20190111_2056.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To Bottom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
The Yummy Middle Part</h3>
On 17 Jan 2019, we finally left Antigua after seven weeks. We were more
confident than ever in Argon and had some of the best sailing we've
ever experienced all through the Eastern Caribbean ahead of us. We covered the Leeward Islands, but unlike last time, we continued down-island through the Windwards too. We covered a lot of
ground that we did in 2016-17, but we also went to some new places and
found some new favorites (and some new not-so favorites). We'll go through the various destinations next in words and photos.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJo-IdWm1KDIfVFajtXRVKcoNh6IB4y9GuunodT84B8ruVuLKJSt2SGT8xCK63EYbKbLsflQvfsTIOGwwwdbjj04lEvHh8S6hS8RDXToDoZd8T5k2BgGByNBdq973FS2GGD3_p10FUYDI/s1600/20190117_2250.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJo-IdWm1KDIfVFajtXRVKcoNh6IB4y9GuunodT84B8ruVuLKJSt2SGT8xCK63EYbKbLsflQvfsTIOGwwwdbjj04lEvHh8S6hS8RDXToDoZd8T5k2BgGByNBdq973FS2GGD3_p10FUYDI/s400/20190117_2250.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our last morning in Antigua after being there for seven weeks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFCkdFuq_zmJlgg4KS-fFsFiyWplbB8kvOGO57jCEeLzbzOcV7-h3zQtPu-mVOjkkqIzbZoqU8gcZu0pAgswDbu4gMezhRg_2dVPdH2j6XHAlnOoZGWzG1frITIwlsnm7SoksgAT_G5o/s1600/20190117_2267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFCkdFuq_zmJlgg4KS-fFsFiyWplbB8kvOGO57jCEeLzbzOcV7-h3zQtPu-mVOjkkqIzbZoqU8gcZu0pAgswDbu4gMezhRg_2dVPdH2j6XHAlnOoZGWzG1frITIwlsnm7SoksgAT_G5o/s400/20190117_2267.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And we're off - sailing (at last) on a reach south to Guadeloupe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
The Leewards (again)</h3>
In <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2017/07/cruising-recap-cost-of-cruising.html">the 2016-17 cruise</a>, we made it only as far south as Dominica before returning north. This time, we really wanted to make it further and sail all the way south to Grenada. We also didn't want to have to rush though it, but here we faced a decision. Because of all the time lost with the repairs, we were very pressed for time if we were going to continue south. Over dinner one night, we made the call to continue south and just leave the boat in Grenada for the summer and resume the trip home in 2019-20.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEe8SOSRiuu4eSQZEIKZJaWBCysNPTTivuwLCBMg6l3yzhmJcVJAXtO16ezzCdmheQLVOP-vZKZ-RkQCJuafh-7g0rascPA5xNPM4ljSj0AoQRArpiK0Wcy35AUF2Wmqr3XiS_WrSmwM/s1600/20190117_2265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEe8SOSRiuu4eSQZEIKZJaWBCysNPTTivuwLCBMg6l3yzhmJcVJAXtO16ezzCdmheQLVOP-vZKZ-RkQCJuafh-7g0rascPA5xNPM4ljSj0AoQRArpiK0Wcy35AUF2Wmqr3XiS_WrSmwM/s400/20190117_2265.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passing Montserrat's windward side as we head south to Guadeloupe </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Guadeloupe... </h3>
The first french island south of Antigua. Here, you can clear into customs for Guadeloupe, Marie-Galante and Les Saintes. We managed to do a bit of video about this leg of the trip.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/LMA7DsHNNg0/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LMA7DsHNNg0?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymsMwjtDLksE_A4kilVVgiq7qjRIL5euFe0GiT4hqJSEcFL_We3HqRBBQw4Hm1qeoWtgVFl_GtUao_mLIS5rKCQCHUSp6GqZTp5ZEDN150xaPQNpDzvg2chvljQRmHLVlylqpzUbznrM/s1600/20190117_2273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymsMwjtDLksE_A4kilVVgiq7qjRIL5euFe0GiT4hqJSEcFL_We3HqRBBQw4Hm1qeoWtgVFl_GtUao_mLIS5rKCQCHUSp6GqZTp5ZEDN150xaPQNpDzvg2chvljQRmHLVlylqpzUbznrM/s400/20190117_2273.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deshaies, Guadeloupe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW5BnRa-93-inodPVmsQYSlGeIQAwMyeYeXsK3KFauVYIYu-rEV4CfrWuSEzvRfzCwdHMoAWAUrWzDPd6vYxq44Ah7FzBpw3r2BoomqFjDDDiHkf8Q6WkH-s66GdlRdg1RigqaYzVuHjE/s1600/20190118_201548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW5BnRa-93-inodPVmsQYSlGeIQAwMyeYeXsK3KFauVYIYu-rEV4CfrWuSEzvRfzCwdHMoAWAUrWzDPd6vYxq44Ah7FzBpw3r2BoomqFjDDDiHkf8Q6WkH-s66GdlRdg1RigqaYzVuHjE/s400/20190118_201548.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Continued kid visit in Guadeloupe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA0y3edTBqShuuSbb9gZ4mYLXdeqC2zE8MoGztFGVjdDTb0BPOH-XvtL1yxRPSWqqEEBxyBe1Gew5i14d-naA768t2yxuofjdrHfS0IL3L8NV5xda1WGNXz3go4MyalAcXMckP8POCNng/s1600/20190110_113523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA0y3edTBqShuuSbb9gZ4mYLXdeqC2zE8MoGztFGVjdDTb0BPOH-XvtL1yxRPSWqqEEBxyBe1Gew5i14d-naA768t2yxuofjdrHfS0IL3L8NV5xda1WGNXz3go4MyalAcXMckP8POCNng/s400/20190110_113523.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7qQlBqPb-orc_pYUQB2QVSekhyphenhypheniXEZC9ZtxugOfv21y4-sScWRAyhY4WQj_Sw1RReV3jlkC5KkUOxGt9xgl9GvAPOxvGtR_h2B555p37KQ4EMLgGlZuRnVTAqEAxbVVmf8UtXuBBk3Qc/s1600/20190111_170140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7qQlBqPb-orc_pYUQB2QVSekhyphenhypheniXEZC9ZtxugOfv21y4-sScWRAyhY4WQj_Sw1RReV3jlkC5KkUOxGt9xgl9GvAPOxvGtR_h2B555p37KQ4EMLgGlZuRnVTAqEAxbVVmf8UtXuBBk3Qc/s400/20190111_170140.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlQGOcs_XYIr04dBR4S8ILffiigshacBS8uPKdtbv2VVnC_OWJZjOw7C9MoiyfSqyKvP2uZFyOnqIwdKJ0Sf1LYpdq1f_bRRLxLhbvkop4IUZPtmP87Bml_PRIx7fpmPM_Endt2rMUmXc/s1600/20190118_2292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlQGOcs_XYIr04dBR4S8ILffiigshacBS8uPKdtbv2VVnC_OWJZjOw7C9MoiyfSqyKvP2uZFyOnqIwdKJ0Sf1LYpdq1f_bRRLxLhbvkop4IUZPtmP87Bml_PRIx7fpmPM_Endt2rMUmXc/s400/20190118_2292.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Anchor in Réserve Cousteau, Guadeloupe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ23toVop2iWoQN7St290F3KxwLP-YcRAbXfZTAcsiruQ91xbXIoT6FVK58NqjbYA7fH_cub9_EZgdtJhKh1iE5nZ9QG-_HrlRM9i8ma16Ot3ITOMAB6VtcNR0a4EHigfyIZtiqCxyYXQ/s1600/20190118_100348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ23toVop2iWoQN7St290F3KxwLP-YcRAbXfZTAcsiruQ91xbXIoT6FVK58NqjbYA7fH_cub9_EZgdtJhKh1iE5nZ9QG-_HrlRM9i8ma16Ot3ITOMAB6VtcNR0a4EHigfyIZtiqCxyYXQ/s400/20190118_100348.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my frustrating experiences buying a SIM card in the French Islands.</td></tr>
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<h3>
Marie-Galante...</h3>
A (very) French enclave of Guadeloupe. This flat island is a bit off the beaten path and is very traditional Caribbean (by which I mean, connectivity is very difficult here). This is also where we had the most difficulty with the language barrier. Neither of us took any french, so we're hopeless with pronunciation. We quickly learned that we would annoy them more by <i>trying </i>to speak French than just giving up. We made heavy use of the google Translate app here.<br />
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Our big mistake was buying a Digicel SIM in Guadeloupe instead of an Orange Sim. In hindsight, Orange has WAY more coverage in the french islands than digi (also much cheaper). I was very busy with the day job during this time, so the data situation sort of overshadowed everything else for me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoKvmoIOTEhs4uWkhikjtibYqTeTxZLTWP9eX8KLwB5svZw0RvVaRMVuyyb98aVX4exKqlSqfkjs-soOyRmxwk8CZOgMghWokpbvVxkXx-b5TDtX3i34P-6dkqlyY9pMv4Jln5qF83YA/s1600/20190122_2458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoKvmoIOTEhs4uWkhikjtibYqTeTxZLTWP9eX8KLwB5svZw0RvVaRMVuyyb98aVX4exKqlSqfkjs-soOyRmxwk8CZOgMghWokpbvVxkXx-b5TDtX3i34P-6dkqlyY9pMv4Jln5qF83YA/s400/20190122_2458.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Street celebration/parade down the main street</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdvws745QVJf-DubzCWiNAsVR2Pu7s7XpAwMq6-6fCxdKW71sYAv8Rk4M-0ynXbFnVYhyCMTqcCeTXFCH441uCCja91DwNblQyuY9b-0IMEHr_KNX7bV-OGXhDm_UVsdxvIcyjso3HGs/s1600/20190121_145105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdvws745QVJf-DubzCWiNAsVR2Pu7s7XpAwMq6-6fCxdKW71sYAv8Rk4M-0ynXbFnVYhyCMTqcCeTXFCH441uCCja91DwNblQyuY9b-0IMEHr_KNX7bV-OGXhDm_UVsdxvIcyjso3HGs/s400/20190121_145105.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finding a trickle of data behind a restaurant before they opened. The owners lived upstairs and knew we were doing it but didn't seem to mind.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF546m4NImnwNetY5-C_R47-zRQHghEBultiZ5w5HAVW93c2_NAIjx9m2MvKbc-7UZ77vR5Hm3R5ab0lFpCyMUnphnVAKGcvPOuJpc6PaUTAh8bV6KfbuTY6462ov9jqu-vQe7pqElNEw/s1600/20190122_2414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF546m4NImnwNetY5-C_R47-zRQHghEBultiZ5w5HAVW93c2_NAIjx9m2MvKbc-7UZ77vR5Hm3R5ab0lFpCyMUnphnVAKGcvPOuJpc6PaUTAh8bV6KfbuTY6462ov9jqu-vQe7pqElNEw/s400/20190122_2414.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We would often point the google translate app at signs to figure out what to do.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLaKsWNXn1nsYRGsKmTPpSwr-lWEOsbR52C-wTKpxlgewgcaalUFEdp9uOj1ZjphTdcuxijxU1xAixW6BDrshYRJJAnj1KDST6raosFGYl2L0EeFPvXp13DzukYRWNas-7XmaD6VGI1d8/s1600/20190122_2405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLaKsWNXn1nsYRGsKmTPpSwr-lWEOsbR52C-wTKpxlgewgcaalUFEdp9uOj1ZjphTdcuxijxU1xAixW6BDrshYRJJAnj1KDST6raosFGYl2L0EeFPvXp13DzukYRWNas-7XmaD6VGI1d8/s400/20190122_2405.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gorgeous windward coast of Marie-Galante</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy8oezK0wT6KOCChzKp7uos-rCTxraKcjlDNfi0VLM68Ap3Q5f6QZx_WemI064L0gPbF71L56Lz3h6fEvR5TZk45h-IFaS6miHWX-_ZiX8btI_0-M90-wmEFMRtcr6bFGAEkrtVoJ5mQI/s1600/20190122_100452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy8oezK0wT6KOCChzKp7uos-rCTxraKcjlDNfi0VLM68Ap3Q5f6QZx_WemI064L0gPbF71L56Lz3h6fEvR5TZk45h-IFaS6miHWX-_ZiX8btI_0-M90-wmEFMRtcr6bFGAEkrtVoJ5mQI/s400/20190122_100452.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Life is good! Finally an ORANGE Mobile store in Marie-Galante. From here on out, we were sitting pretty with data in the french islands. We bought two of these and put one in each of our travel phones.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tL501Z8yInGgfe0K9Phoj_NPXMofb3IQ0z7TG0foKX07R-88dV1gSSNmNbC40QF07OzjIQvzgC9VPklwp1W2JiyoRtp7V_HVH9cLs-EBchpAFsK0mFPJOe0hckwehufzXFfnGmBwkpo/s1600/Screenshot_20190122-163426.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tL501Z8yInGgfe0K9Phoj_NPXMofb3IQ0z7TG0foKX07R-88dV1gSSNmNbC40QF07OzjIQvzgC9VPklwp1W2JiyoRtp7V_HVH9cLs-EBchpAFsK0mFPJOe0hckwehufzXFfnGmBwkpo/s400/Screenshot_20190122-163426.png" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Never thought I would see "LTE" again.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XCPtY45HF3N5P1DkddX_itw-HWykiQOOxuyCzs2b9-kaXhbnYA2HdVDpzJFmPeCI2J5aA6N1TrqgRr-XrYjH0mHr8W1ByRgDJA_HXRoXFWqoSj0EgcRCES2Y7ZJehgKyGGM4wMhIAtA/s1600/20190121_142935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XCPtY45HF3N5P1DkddX_itw-HWykiQOOxuyCzs2b9-kaXhbnYA2HdVDpzJFmPeCI2J5aA6N1TrqgRr-XrYjH0mHr8W1ByRgDJA_HXRoXFWqoSj0EgcRCES2Y7ZJehgKyGGM4wMhIAtA/s400/20190121_142935.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This lovely woman ran a really cool art gallery - and spoke pretty good English. </td></tr>
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<h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGK_EMmR8UmIdacK5pxtwq0wpRJmZsqYsiYUzeRhtejML9uNPR3lQ7g6QABy0sEeVljXu3TicbowRrilEdLzDKgwt4MVgABwZ3HtUhQOJye2Y2ltdUhljHMayNgc841c88qMOaSYjI18w/s1600/20190122_085907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGK_EMmR8UmIdacK5pxtwq0wpRJmZsqYsiYUzeRhtejML9uNPR3lQ7g6QABy0sEeVljXu3TicbowRrilEdLzDKgwt4MVgABwZ3HtUhQOJye2Y2ltdUhljHMayNgc841c88qMOaSYjI18w/s400/20190122_085907.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the car rental office on Marie-Galante. Between google translate and these two helpful french tourists, we managed to get some wheels.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFSJeWpRjEiUnDAoMlkDpSvhR2X-ZQN3Kni5o96N4Q4z95pzFMP-JcgqAP26BWHccyboenaxSh2U6ikb4Rces_EY1xWtgp5ol4xALmDxwVWKcjkSZsPwbwzAAX6M2A0LWp_IGHiB7BmQs/s1600/20190122_2423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFSJeWpRjEiUnDAoMlkDpSvhR2X-ZQN3Kni5o96N4Q4z95pzFMP-JcgqAP26BWHccyboenaxSh2U6ikb4Rces_EY1xWtgp5ol4xALmDxwVWKcjkSZsPwbwzAAX6M2A0LWp_IGHiB7BmQs/s400/20190122_2423.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drag-racing a Beneteau down the west coast of Marie-Galante. We made sure they could read "Boston" on our stern</td></tr>
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</h3>
<h3>
Les Saintes (again)</h3>
I <i>love </i>Les Saintes. Of anywhere in Guadeloupe, this little group of islands is by far my favorite. The people are friendly and more tolerant of us non-french speakers. The moorings are great (and inexpensive). Spectacular hiking and biking (on some very cool electric bikes) round it all out. Oh, and the food...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3IohOGOwolcDuBbLgRdXdnwSI6XgDLzg986ZD49-bTMkprgBWCmBgxL4dwZaiiXYgd-kdQ2fY4XMJOYeSjezyeO6SusynlAsMf1OQ2xRLKv0NCCttc2umYcEoCBYN3KSirkYczGoY6kU/s1600/20190126_2469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3IohOGOwolcDuBbLgRdXdnwSI6XgDLzg986ZD49-bTMkprgBWCmBgxL4dwZaiiXYgd-kdQ2fY4XMJOYeSjezyeO6SusynlAsMf1OQ2xRLKv0NCCttc2umYcEoCBYN3KSirkYczGoY6kU/s400/20190126_2469.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downtown Terre-de-Haut</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZL7mGkYb6EQ1Ke5O2WXEmwDAYabWWQ-MQ9mqelwNg6SyTGf_jMYoXkCoX7Ue8q9nYrntdGy5DGUCaYggT3tzDGvMq_mIKeJ9tCyR8IC0nAtUSmlXKIIKuGmFEWQi6cY1dSOMtJoEY7w/s1600/20190126_2504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZL7mGkYb6EQ1Ke5O2WXEmwDAYabWWQ-MQ9mqelwNg6SyTGf_jMYoXkCoX7Ue8q9nYrntdGy5DGUCaYggT3tzDGvMq_mIKeJ9tCyR8IC0nAtUSmlXKIIKuGmFEWQi6cY1dSOMtJoEY7w/s400/20190126_2504.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Terre-de-Haut from a couple thousand feet up on a hike (Argon is on one of those moorings)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAL0LFc1HFkyhkUPL5JMxsICvBPqUmj00Cc-ABHWK5k2LHgbHdtZbVi7QguJNbC0NQ9gt1VEbTEv_reyWOL5VuSiHs0u8VvzmROJnki4AoZBIDY8mw323KACpXz-0nJzJ2IzY6AL24P4w/s1600/20190126_2517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAL0LFc1HFkyhkUPL5JMxsICvBPqUmj00Cc-ABHWK5k2LHgbHdtZbVi7QguJNbC0NQ9gt1VEbTEv_reyWOL5VuSiHs0u8VvzmROJnki4AoZBIDY8mw323KACpXz-0nJzJ2IzY6AL24P4w/s400/20190126_2517.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiking on Terre-de-Haut. Some friendly folks took our picture. Marie-Galante can barely be seen in the distance</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_W4oz2UreT75MNasQ5XOup6k1XyXtCf0csnMAcBB7tXheMCfM2ErEEvLirrAC5fzxmcjsqRnH3Q98fELJl9oAm8tr2fh89DXMLlq683hqYLT_UInY6N9YjvD4863A2veNJLUhBCueYI/s1600/2019-01-27_08-00-33.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="604" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_W4oz2UreT75MNasQ5XOup6k1XyXtCf0csnMAcBB7tXheMCfM2ErEEvLirrAC5fzxmcjsqRnH3Q98fELJl9oAm8tr2fh89DXMLlq683hqYLT_UInY6N9YjvD4863A2veNJLUhBCueYI/s400/2019-01-27_08-00-33.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Topo map of our hike up Terre-de-Haut</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThdi4Zh5hYpt7uIbuZAfwQcpV4-kvOhJen8yqbPdglYeLvH9J05kf2XrXgJPhduWtGGIMYV030ZYLZ3F-XuD2DLE_GnDSsBHNi5tjQ_oZ9qDvbdX2-JXr7uLPUg0vx-fCxfRgm7YSDIo/s1600/20190127_143448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThdi4Zh5hYpt7uIbuZAfwQcpV4-kvOhJen8yqbPdglYeLvH9J05kf2XrXgJPhduWtGGIMYV030ZYLZ3F-XuD2DLE_GnDSsBHNi5tjQ_oZ9qDvbdX2-JXr7uLPUg0vx-fCxfRgm7YSDIo/s400/20190127_143448.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These electric bikes are really cool. And they're called E-BOBs. How could I say no?</td></tr>
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<h3>
Dominica (again)</h3>
Dominica is amazing. It's not full of foo-foo resorts and spas. It is full of adventure. Some of the most spectacular rain forests and waterfalls are here. The country was still recovering (Slowly) from Maria and there was still a lot of devastation all around. Dominica also received a one-two punch economically. They were already not a wealthy country and not only did Maria clobber them, but then the Medical School (huge source of foreign investment and revenue) pulled up stakes and relocated to Barbados. The people in Dominica are incredibly proud of their country and natural beauty, but you could see a lot of sadness and desperation in the faces about the conditions there.<br />
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In Portsmouth, Dominica, there is an organization called <a href="https://dominicapays.wixsite.com/pays" target="_blank">Portsmouth Association of Yacht Services</a> (PAYS). These guys are great. You give them some money and they will help you with anything you need - including security. Because of PAYS, Portsmouth is now one of the safest harbors in the Caribbean (says me). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnSHJz5T1S3jmg63EL-tP1Q-jwhegS5XJgxJpuYNi_FyX2eTNUl4cTQPVDVmgyk2m_uliWeLYNvkcu7r9Mggir9mzGyEcESfymG8MXbvTBhSn_51K706JnACNpArv8IbvpDAjsrf5Mx3E/s1600/20190131_2711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnSHJz5T1S3jmg63EL-tP1Q-jwhegS5XJgxJpuYNi_FyX2eTNUl4cTQPVDVmgyk2m_uliWeLYNvkcu7r9Mggir9mzGyEcESfymG8MXbvTBhSn_51K706JnACNpArv8IbvpDAjsrf5Mx3E/s400/20190131_2711.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roaring south toward Dominica</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvXrHY1yuy9rFN7eH2Vko58cCL03fNh0PfXii0LIV7gkyyu-T6WBMHSqyFYnNNya1Ww19o2_dXetj1TjuSY8e9PtWcoAwFFPN42an30bQ_3IaMBbUwr4CNLtjRm2FucBJK6yL2jB4BUbs/s1600/20190131_2716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvXrHY1yuy9rFN7eH2Vko58cCL03fNh0PfXii0LIV7gkyyu-T6WBMHSqyFYnNNya1Ww19o2_dXetj1TjuSY8e9PtWcoAwFFPN42an30bQ_3IaMBbUwr4CNLtjRm2FucBJK6yL2jB4BUbs/s400/20190131_2716.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picked a mooring in Portsmouth. The guy helping is one of the P.A.Y.S. associates</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm6_dqNkMEPb-_538ZEHv85MbquionW5P35PwMBYXP_x7hOUSITv1IBrQ35QDkM9_zu7WQME2_GjJNo6HlPuFqgN9EBNjMH3daOQHNF3AtCM2JMvR2jItWe_xFWxRHljF58-uVFm4rD3k/s1600/20190131_2664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm6_dqNkMEPb-_538ZEHv85MbquionW5P35PwMBYXP_x7hOUSITv1IBrQ35QDkM9_zu7WQME2_GjJNo6HlPuFqgN9EBNjMH3daOQHNF3AtCM2JMvR2jItWe_xFWxRHljF58-uVFm4rD3k/s400/20190131_2664.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Portsmouth Street scene</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTRAyV3q_LCykOMWFx7kCg0lVFU7ooCNrdNzf8HCxHeCkoerB3ypm7QXmZu86D_cgkiCmT4SBIybvXYa5eVW3XkR1NKQqpIFIAjRI_d3UrH7wUU-8n80qoMf65wuBQhgPyln_HG9tdsS8/s1600/20190131_2668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTRAyV3q_LCykOMWFx7kCg0lVFU7ooCNrdNzf8HCxHeCkoerB3ypm7QXmZu86D_cgkiCmT4SBIybvXYa5eVW3XkR1NKQqpIFIAjRI_d3UrH7wUU-8n80qoMf65wuBQhgPyln_HG9tdsS8/s400/20190131_2668.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first gig in the Caribbean. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiz-Z9nmPyk-daZLuwUa5su6W79rQIhaSg2Ec34_jcd9hU7Wx7ETOdOvc4xvsAC1DUjC2rURdnw6rCJxAC1n3rQgNMJ8XVsHDO1ht631f376XuQC2-2hpexilR-e9PQslxtxYLwH-3hI4/s1600/20190204_2877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiz-Z9nmPyk-daZLuwUa5su6W79rQIhaSg2Ec34_jcd9hU7Wx7ETOdOvc4xvsAC1DUjC2rURdnw6rCJxAC1n3rQgNMJ8XVsHDO1ht631f376XuQC2-2hpexilR-e9PQslxtxYLwH-3hI4/s400/20190204_2877.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the great hikes we went on. Here we are actually above the rain forest in elevation hiking around a fresh water lake way up in the mountains. The lake provides water for two hydro plants lower down and the water flows through large pipes made of wood.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBlTeiwuImrVsd-xAUXMDXr6hLu8vRnjbqrWrSAypHY-TiUuIMRGWzhnMHx5wCcZVgqnwdJBGYpqOd7XbsERTESHOugcM6esNqW6rlhX51jwx9-i9_ogEAeyVHnRG1nJnk0GPA0q7FGrI/s1600/20190201_2762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBlTeiwuImrVsd-xAUXMDXr6hLu8vRnjbqrWrSAypHY-TiUuIMRGWzhnMHx5wCcZVgqnwdJBGYpqOd7XbsERTESHOugcM6esNqW6rlhX51jwx9-i9_ogEAeyVHnRG1nJnk0GPA0q7FGrI/s400/20190201_2762.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daily, nearly permanent rainbow in Roseau, Dominica (a double on this day)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfHgLs74iY8SMGAkz0PLFWz2iXe1QueK8isrIxB6wRVB6O4UFvgwLUnNcTrDo1UJ497HeHtc_SCc90UIpAPx4duqBx5K_Aeaw6j01YA3WI5iC1Tm9-9FKSqDo8yfaxJyudZKBSPG5v0oc/s1600/20190204_2838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfHgLs74iY8SMGAkz0PLFWz2iXe1QueK8isrIxB6wRVB6O4UFvgwLUnNcTrDo1UJ497HeHtc_SCc90UIpAPx4duqBx5K_Aeaw6j01YA3WI5iC1Tm9-9FKSqDo8yfaxJyudZKBSPG5v0oc/s400/20190204_2838.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taxi ride from the mooring in Roseau for a day of hiking and touring</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha66_JZubsRgSiqf0KGXG1ZmVeFsQSITNmcYlVTPwn5m8meJHUMkjVljoyktlS-V6p_vz8tKiAlnZnbY7Ug8peUL9umPNQT_GqAm8v-MhBMSJ3gw4A9ZlWIFQj4gntSHYiEJs1nZQZE9c/s1600/20190204_2811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha66_JZubsRgSiqf0KGXG1ZmVeFsQSITNmcYlVTPwn5m8meJHUMkjVljoyktlS-V6p_vz8tKiAlnZnbY7Ug8peUL9umPNQT_GqAm8v-MhBMSJ3gw4A9ZlWIFQj4gntSHYiEJs1nZQZE9c/s400/20190204_2811.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Dominica with our next country, Martinique, in the distance</td></tr>
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<h3>
Martinique... Back to France and entry to The Windwards</h3>
We didn't stop at the capital Fort-de-France, and instead just headed to an anchorage on the southern end of the island called Anse D'arlet. We went ashore a couple times but really didn't do much. Anse D'arlet is the first anchorage I've been in that had wifi buoys scattered around the anchorage which you could connect to - for a price. We've learned that multiple redundancy is the key to being able to work reliably remotely so we bought in. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WZPe_DbWaE5hIOIqyoGljsnFYAfGyFGpaa2Qpv9zyZuaVAIH0dPr5s4_VKoSwTHmWStC-utaNaP79wZep3NL0-53b1_LZ_tuhluBfnzW_22u8mu-WfcFXjGa0NQP800XRpK9D7AwJcI/s1600/20190205_203752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1419" data-original-width="1600" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WZPe_DbWaE5hIOIqyoGljsnFYAfGyFGpaa2Qpv9zyZuaVAIH0dPr5s4_VKoSwTHmWStC-utaNaP79wZep3NL0-53b1_LZ_tuhluBfnzW_22u8mu-WfcFXjGa0NQP800XRpK9D7AwJcI/s400/20190205_203752.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda got her fresh seafood fix here.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPhijNuoAFJfE2Zxy7m9jR7JNUpA-f-nUVbkBLBJPvgDYrG-KDheehfZo7JBDt8vZ_xBTDSji_O8ejL5-uBcugTyN_pn11h5QtQ8PvN8HagqYNjM49iqE4F1EK_hvaLXmStuaulNPbFmA/s1600/20190206_180917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPhijNuoAFJfE2Zxy7m9jR7JNUpA-f-nUVbkBLBJPvgDYrG-KDheehfZo7JBDt8vZ_xBTDSji_O8ejL5-uBcugTyN_pn11h5QtQ8PvN8HagqYNjM49iqE4F1EK_hvaLXmStuaulNPbFmA/s400/20190206_180917.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming ashore in Anse D'arlet Martinique</td></tr>
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<h3>
St Lucia - and another kid visit</h3>
To get to St Lucia, we were actually able to "put a little west in" for the first time in a long time while sailing south from Martinique. We were truly in the "windward" experience now. We settled into Rodney Bay marina for most of the time, and decided to take advantage of the marine service prices and get our brightwork stripped to bare wood and re-varnished. This worked out because my son Jon and his girlfriend Nichole visited us there and we did mostly land excursions (even rented an Airbnb for a few days) while the boat was worked on in the Marina. Driving on St. Lucia like many of the vulcanic mountainous Caribbean Islands is an adventure. The one non-land excursion was a lovely day-sail from Rodney Bay to the famous Pitons and back.<br />
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The dark side of St Lucia (apart from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGBT_rights_in_Saint_Lucia" target="_blank">criminalizing LGBT people</a>) is the amount of crime. Until now, we had gotten in the habit of locking our dinghy with a stainless cable. That was a joke in St Lucia (and south), so we bought 12 feet of heavy Stainless chain (at $24/foot) and had a stainless ring welded to one end. From here on out, we were always locking with the chain and locking the dinghy to Argon overnight.<br />
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Again, we managed to do a video of this leg.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jon actually enjoying a rigorous sail to the Pitons</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the Pitons. Note the masking tape still on the genoa track from the varnishing work</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Posing in front of a Piton</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group selfie while sailing back from the Pitons</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtFmrMbjKrKf2l82zmr-vf6FwGSzdeJY1mO3kSGXsQ6L7boKnUgwnFZjSoDnyOSphrI1jgmtyaMel-XQm4k43KUmnfTU4GsNqz-1YDMLQrxPfFGWeS_k6yHlb37NKA8gn6t3lc3evfBAQ/s1600/20190217_3359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtFmrMbjKrKf2l82zmr-vf6FwGSzdeJY1mO3kSGXsQ6L7boKnUgwnFZjSoDnyOSphrI1jgmtyaMel-XQm4k43KUmnfTU4GsNqz-1YDMLQrxPfFGWeS_k6yHlb37NKA8gn6t3lc3evfBAQ/s400/20190217_3359.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view of the Pitons - from land this time</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYm7jg6YFjMk4nhXdtYLt9cc4q7qV_yXYrTRVr4s6TbgUXa_PozkVLhv2y8OUtyblgULGqkC5BebqcmhSiKgNAkYyEnqRo36bcq_sy6xG2dYhsKwabtpOfNBXsclmsz3vGQpy3u7mL2w/s1600/Screenshot_20190216-131034_Maps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYm7jg6YFjMk4nhXdtYLt9cc4q7qV_yXYrTRVr4s6TbgUXa_PozkVLhv2y8OUtyblgULGqkC5BebqcmhSiKgNAkYyEnqRo36bcq_sy6xG2dYhsKwabtpOfNBXsclmsz3vGQpy3u7mL2w/s400/Screenshot_20190216-131034_Maps.jpg" width="193" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical "S" and Hairpin Turns driving on the mountain roads</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc6fHm5m5zD9Zv4xTdrsHO00q7l-pKL6tfl3Qg1AFeOYM05yku1A1gxS7Pfo9kzPqQKK8HiGDvH2BNdA28COdHnD1Mkf8cMMvpu9JnfC65DkS9fIXTMT4qaF792PGRvVe8VQ7L3CAfN0Q/s1600/20190217_3354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc6fHm5m5zD9Zv4xTdrsHO00q7l-pKL6tfl3Qg1AFeOYM05yku1A1gxS7Pfo9kzPqQKK8HiGDvH2BNdA28COdHnD1Mkf8cMMvpu9JnfC65DkS9fIXTMT4qaF792PGRvVe8VQ7L3CAfN0Q/s400/20190217_3354.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and the boy</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQpFCFDRvRfPt8R9CGsUAbv_UUVsSOBRuv0DfBO5NDm643bQksWvrFzkHGh51-tSrF98YVDJIYp6h9RbeXW0b97wAxF9z8OZ44Tq90ErTGeypcu0vIUCurIkCPmb_C_23Df42PmvcxUY/s1600/20190213_3181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQpFCFDRvRfPt8R9CGsUAbv_UUVsSOBRuv0DfBO5NDm643bQksWvrFzkHGh51-tSrF98YVDJIYp6h9RbeXW0b97wAxF9z8OZ44Tq90ErTGeypcu0vIUCurIkCPmb_C_23Df42PmvcxUY/s400/20190213_3181.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Met this guy along the side of the road (shot from in the car)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-e8n6M46IxwHdHarqxNURMQpvR-EclZtje4ozc8Zh9tNmXU7VfOyq9LdHf3hqje6ZdIgJrT9JOHiZ75nBSkP69VcALYRV4yRn4VqpJlhQ7Vwd4cS84QJz6JJFSiGsujy1Smkzb3LkN2o/s1600/20190213_3185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-e8n6M46IxwHdHarqxNURMQpvR-EclZtje4ozc8Zh9tNmXU7VfOyq9LdHf3hqje6ZdIgJrT9JOHiZ75nBSkP69VcALYRV4yRn4VqpJlhQ7Vwd4cS84QJz6JJFSiGsujy1Smkzb3LkN2o/s400/20190213_3185.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Print-worthy?</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkC7AD0mkjK4de9p3M9J2m-Q0CX3_zSyyzYYm72a3HpxjWf3sdIKF9TRD1IZHRY-RWTTfjpI5H9jCPv0lC8ZAuNZuAFI3CH4zK9U7n43OHZ4-ZV8_0_uqfVUjFeHRLj1PKPRGgPL2C4Mc/s1600/20190213_3204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkC7AD0mkjK4de9p3M9J2m-Q0CX3_zSyyzYYm72a3HpxjWf3sdIKF9TRD1IZHRY-RWTTfjpI5H9jCPv0lC8ZAuNZuAFI3CH4zK9U7n43OHZ4-ZV8_0_uqfVUjFeHRLj1PKPRGgPL2C4Mc/s400/20190213_3204.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jon and Linda enjoying some fresh fruit</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijkg6Y_Z4VIJCSmL5d934Y2N0j44yVHNFxMaZbPZXdDxZdNS1bv26fX78E5e4A__wVldvxXymmERoGL13qiGbtEULDm5pzQrMWajIawCqZkOcZWE5BlxTPe5qBSGKhoNzSPWZM3ge5yos/s1600/20190213_3177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijkg6Y_Z4VIJCSmL5d934Y2N0j44yVHNFxMaZbPZXdDxZdNS1bv26fX78E5e4A__wVldvxXymmERoGL13qiGbtEULDm5pzQrMWajIawCqZkOcZWE5BlxTPe5qBSGKhoNzSPWZM3ge5yos/s400/20190213_3177.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winston working on his art in his tiny studio. We visited him twice and bought some beautiful pieces both times</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj10iQdoJVyjbv4qToYhPjd2S1BkGTdvXrzWrWBOyfKp4hl2UnIFH9zP2eiYm17MlhEtzHqYaWswfodhTgv2LtqkDiO2NQa1BXXLH8t07B0IFqT0Nq-950zhQD9tP2dCujA-3gh0LEoe0M/s1600/20190210_145923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj10iQdoJVyjbv4qToYhPjd2S1BkGTdvXrzWrWBOyfKp4hl2UnIFH9zP2eiYm17MlhEtzHqYaWswfodhTgv2LtqkDiO2NQa1BXXLH8t07B0IFqT0Nq-950zhQD9tP2dCujA-3gh0LEoe0M/s400/20190210_145923.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jon and Nichole overlooking Rodney Bay from the fort on Pigeon Island</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBk1AjT-Y_XYQn5dKS8PDLHqDftEtLth12PJ6UASucitm8d_i57siSr2eN5TPaIpGNXX7UfbPtG9wWqSJ-85rNY89Kt5TSOYIw58019eV5lwl3f99hq6ZBy4_ZCvOHQtCJmMWq0KfQJ0c/s1600/20190209_125640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBk1AjT-Y_XYQn5dKS8PDLHqDftEtLth12PJ6UASucitm8d_i57siSr2eN5TPaIpGNXX7UfbPtG9wWqSJ-85rNY89Kt5TSOYIw58019eV5lwl3f99hq6ZBy4_ZCvOHQtCJmMWq0KfQJ0c/s400/20190209_125640.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeramiah and Friend (both real names) working on the varnish. These guys are GOOD!</td></tr>
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<h3>
St. Vincent & The Grenadines (SVG)...</h3>
We ended up skipping over St. Vincent and sailed overnight from Rodney Bay all the way to Bequia in the Grenadines. We loved the Grenadines and Bequia was a favorite. On approach to Bequia, a "boat boy" started approaching us at high speed, but instead of the usual hustle, he stopped about 200 yards from us and pulled out a camera with an enormous telephoto lens and started snapping photos of us. We were in robust conditions and tired from our overnight sail but we tried to look our best. After settling in at anchor in Admiralty Bay, <a href="http://www.bequiaphotoaction.com/" target="_blank">the photographer Kenmore</a>, came over with a proof and his price sheet. Normally, I wouldn't have bought into this, but the shots were so good and the conditions so perfect, I had to have them. I asked if I could purchase the RAW images instead of JPEGs and he agreed.<br />
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Here are a few of the many shots he took...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZiMGLy3HbRNuy6Y2vunJII4OeVvnx_aJ2B1xthxaMBFtxAWEu9xZfh0tI0X6dwRGxCXyuhJCkjBF5oY085eKKqaJnphvwv9cEPzupg-sXAQ2mb-w2RPTdUWmLWnv963CyQURromkZ9Zo/s1600/BP190220-0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZiMGLy3HbRNuy6Y2vunJII4OeVvnx_aJ2B1xthxaMBFtxAWEu9xZfh0tI0X6dwRGxCXyuhJCkjBF5oY085eKKqaJnphvwv9cEPzupg-sXAQ2mb-w2RPTdUWmLWnv963CyQURromkZ9Zo/s400/BP190220-0032.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAk4YW5fp__WDCXpIUKeDN8zLTHAvF1GP8cW-D9lY9deMGaOssPWVWPwaEu9IQJ51JE6ThhEndwbmW8nU7d-cyRnPjCvPggdwnB6zmqhhgKeVrnrfx02JsQYW_-V23XMLlHf4RrRLSYk/s1600/BP190220-0041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAk4YW5fp__WDCXpIUKeDN8zLTHAvF1GP8cW-D9lY9deMGaOssPWVWPwaEu9IQJ51JE6ThhEndwbmW8nU7d-cyRnPjCvPggdwnB6zmqhhgKeVrnrfx02JsQYW_-V23XMLlHf4RrRLSYk/s400/BP190220-0041.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIxAsA28igbeWb71fVaIXfjwxyrKJXhWN8IbuJVvASmnKnwcqr2KIfm0UeCEhpzYLkoK2_a95WmiDxxX1ZacukOfM03Bkhpuj8JWTJ3vHlxdE8P7uQGIRkLb_bsPZ06-45-pFKVYzhbY/s1600/BP190220-0045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIxAsA28igbeWb71fVaIXfjwxyrKJXhWN8IbuJVvASmnKnwcqr2KIfm0UeCEhpzYLkoK2_a95WmiDxxX1ZacukOfM03Bkhpuj8JWTJ3vHlxdE8P7uQGIRkLb_bsPZ06-45-pFKVYzhbY/s400/BP190220-0045.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Bequia was a nice mixture of authentic Caribbean, and touristy comfort. It sort of reminded me of the BVIs but with a much more authentic vibe. We rented a car here and toured the island on our own as well as taking some nice hikes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic8_RHY_lMXP1Eoyvi2dTL93B9vTxZYaF5M4CLqZ23b8wK8YsOqgwADMnMKF0UObx7GkRSzT-rG1d3UmPNRBZQqCKwPvjHu3-nvpor9V21fTMtvRW1F_DY-iUfuCVLWwmvxE6jyhqpAwQ/s1600/20190221_190013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1362" data-original-width="1600" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic8_RHY_lMXP1Eoyvi2dTL93B9vTxZYaF5M4CLqZ23b8wK8YsOqgwADMnMKF0UObx7GkRSzT-rG1d3UmPNRBZQqCKwPvjHu3-nvpor9V21fTMtvRW1F_DY-iUfuCVLWwmvxE6jyhqpAwQ/s400/20190221_190013.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleepy and chilly skipper after sailing overnight</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBzBjkfd1pYZsw8KsmSoef6IsV1_dHMhOi2JFg8B-bQTzBICsX6V_XkcqdBU4i-ndB92S6f3erHORm46xOOoMUMJ7dtU0a4Kzdoc0KRM5lXsPgGEJ0Nv9XN1zmOpWAkuWGdB4zWvutoIg/s1600/20190220_130920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBzBjkfd1pYZsw8KsmSoef6IsV1_dHMhOi2JFg8B-bQTzBICsX6V_XkcqdBU4i-ndB92S6f3erHORm46xOOoMUMJ7dtU0a4Kzdoc0KRM5lXsPgGEJ0Nv9XN1zmOpWAkuWGdB4zWvutoIg/s400/20190220_130920.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the hook in Admiralty Bay. This was our second spot as we dragged a bit on our first attempt</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDx7izMBkw7KI_DqTq6vyaFCsd2zgRhwZBfHDSlXE1jX2l-YSa7olrNtFvWrm9ND6AhnTciFGi_J53j48xkVW5_d9yWMLD302lI328kFt8r94lnythYnQF0P46sLuRZCMvISOahV0_jRU/s1600/20190228_205357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDx7izMBkw7KI_DqTq6vyaFCsd2zgRhwZBfHDSlXE1jX2l-YSa7olrNtFvWrm9ND6AhnTciFGi_J53j48xkVW5_d9yWMLD302lI328kFt8r94lnythYnQF0P46sLuRZCMvISOahV0_jRU/s400/20190228_205357.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from one of our hikes or drives</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxv2h1ZlNx4oUdArRZrPqeqiwQX0BJ-Ik8ZB51VVCbITJCQMBxoUmeRLJFP_XwrGs-dtEpZmo2Sz3meNfDI65O5bgVH7jNP6MFvH94jWeMISoaA4OO3sRmaWL_Xogl3PaWrp91Oq4tw6A/s1600/20190301_3477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxv2h1ZlNx4oUdArRZrPqeqiwQX0BJ-Ik8ZB51VVCbITJCQMBxoUmeRLJFP_XwrGs-dtEpZmo2Sz3meNfDI65O5bgVH7jNP6MFvH94jWeMISoaA4OO3sRmaWL_Xogl3PaWrp91Oq4tw6A/s400/20190301_3477.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visit from the water barge. The skipper is fishing over the side while we fill our tanks</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJyRzOgPdOs67zYQMRS1FIGLuj6uptWNkge6b2uu7iZg0vvGCEnMWNVMyKN4NP5VnwDmF3-Ff4lCJ_Ib_OLiPzxr5Kg3sZtxMhCk4LDb_naeX6lrza2_4Q68aaD5dy-DipDCRJDvk0kg/s1600/20190301_3481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJyRzOgPdOs67zYQMRS1FIGLuj6uptWNkge6b2uu7iZg0vvGCEnMWNVMyKN4NP5VnwDmF3-Ff4lCJ_Ib_OLiPzxr5Kg3sZtxMhCk4LDb_naeX6lrza2_4Q68aaD5dy-DipDCRJDvk0kg/s400/20190301_3481.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We anchored right behind the floating bar</td></tr>
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<h3>
The rest of the chain - Canouan, Mayreau, Union, Tobago Cays ...</h3>
Each of these islands is unique and incredible in its own way. There were some we liked more than others but overall, I could spend a lot more time here.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn1HEfJjN0bPkcWA6hHZz_Tw8Uzo8X6LsR2ypiAlfSB193sd78W-mlr4F1umZys_20pRRSh_iuXolgd_a8ddaI0A7RR2S1IW8918j6bGuF8cqJb26IWVFWaov6Ezlbzq-PHMETVCNFBes/s1600/20190301_3474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn1HEfJjN0bPkcWA6hHZz_Tw8Uzo8X6LsR2ypiAlfSB193sd78W-mlr4F1umZys_20pRRSh_iuXolgd_a8ddaI0A7RR2S1IW8918j6bGuF8cqJb26IWVFWaov6Ezlbzq-PHMETVCNFBes/s400/20190301_3474.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Street scene on Canouan</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5R_hFIHs7zK6dR_iiLUVsi6Lf6RLaoVQfyVp7st0JMd6RTHrXnAsBEGTCnF7X1MfEAWRSaq2LZDkTe21tL3xV5taHCK1J9Q-YD8vuIKCNwP8pUG3RMoSa2sHKURTZySJZGn4dRqrPpcc/s1600/20190301_3472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5R_hFIHs7zK6dR_iiLUVsi6Lf6RLaoVQfyVp7st0JMd6RTHrXnAsBEGTCnF7X1MfEAWRSaq2LZDkTe21tL3xV5taHCK1J9Q-YD8vuIKCNwP8pUG3RMoSa2sHKURTZySJZGn4dRqrPpcc/s400/20190301_3472.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking south to islands still to come</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0fVImXLsS_n_0241vlEQu2GoKo5w6wR5S5RAOhHlAAdGhXR9hTDrHDOZ8NwRJoxXp_lYLweGbwXmgFWUqgSr0VBYF7h2aAWnDUEas5i3LnhEgFZwfS-u5UVEHCoIzSAqAnYVRBXYj4jE/s1600/20190302_3528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0fVImXLsS_n_0241vlEQu2GoKo5w6wR5S5RAOhHlAAdGhXR9hTDrHDOZ8NwRJoxXp_lYLweGbwXmgFWUqgSr0VBYF7h2aAWnDUEas5i3LnhEgFZwfS-u5UVEHCoIzSAqAnYVRBXYj4jE/s400/20190302_3528.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Normal configuration for sailing here - double-reefed main close haul or close reach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-vfixff-NC-c9cBWz2zuG3ezLKvdyn70LluB-_PxmX-yxsxDEGY4QnG7dXKGX6dqIHqIzHGPVM2GPZtvK03T8e4VFVRX5dKnZr1SFuOpj_NBxv3KaKIuDXPnXMHoxbGCTIkUCZLxxR8/s1600/20190302_3540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-vfixff-NC-c9cBWz2zuG3ezLKvdyn70LluB-_PxmX-yxsxDEGY4QnG7dXKGX6dqIHqIzHGPVM2GPZtvK03T8e4VFVRX5dKnZr1SFuOpj_NBxv3KaKIuDXPnXMHoxbGCTIkUCZLxxR8/s400/20190302_3540.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda looking particularly patriotic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzM_Cda5h6PDukBI3whLXE5gWwtXjc5dYeqByYMNsm9n3lkJ4NCH8lWz07wwVMuvfcmM1cte6ki9VEjabrD85MEI4RPQC9_dK4KZYKQvl3fw75Wk1hor8vzjJdJd8c94tyUdQT4bgMlNs/s1600/IMG_20190303_094659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzM_Cda5h6PDukBI3whLXE5gWwtXjc5dYeqByYMNsm9n3lkJ4NCH8lWz07wwVMuvfcmM1cte6ki9VEjabrD85MEI4RPQC9_dK4KZYKQvl3fw75Wk1hor8vzjJdJd8c94tyUdQT4bgMlNs/s400/IMG_20190303_094659.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast in Mayreau with hot sauce from my home town</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CO-v_pOiJCZ0tTwE95BU-e0Xhvx0rhmccdq2jhPI0STa6M503q3OQXqYDn0VFVkSC9ZZRY8J_2XVcrgjGNMaiOWqIfj1W1zOY4EUUzUBI-b-KDC-evaPOlHYD6BaHvKB3uXRjE6_ei0/s1600/20190303_102209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CO-v_pOiJCZ0tTwE95BU-e0Xhvx0rhmccdq2jhPI0STa6M503q3OQXqYDn0VFVkSC9ZZRY8J_2XVcrgjGNMaiOWqIfj1W1zOY4EUUzUBI-b-KDC-evaPOlHYD6BaHvKB3uXRjE6_ei0/s400/20190303_102209.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anchored in Mayreau. Note the kite boarder in the distance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOe__Pes0AP9iclWltMoQwnjK5FhtysoJgU2IATC4o24ZG9nqJcAwVnJO_RkbTWrpbxJ-_2v9kC7Jdrt2-SfSLJzO0RsfO2wF8jcjgSSAIA9ByMNolJD2QoTEZZE8PE4n42jX1T5ukT2Q/s1600/20190302_3546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOe__Pes0AP9iclWltMoQwnjK5FhtysoJgU2IATC4o24ZG9nqJcAwVnJO_RkbTWrpbxJ-_2v9kC7Jdrt2-SfSLJzO0RsfO2wF8jcjgSSAIA9ByMNolJD2QoTEZZE8PE4n42jX1T5ukT2Q/s400/20190302_3546.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tobago Cays Marine Sanctuary</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiilp1dfhOflKyaXH3V5Cn-llF2URmHT0DABdQz2ykk1LkbJJTwLA0Nmqw1bM5N4jrpWzLRGOnom4QKBsaZs53qyWoTyQdax4PxSFy5auS97LlXtC1e6HX-i9wsrv1xApm0LbOkRsa2Oz4/s1600/20190302_3590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiilp1dfhOflKyaXH3V5Cn-llF2URmHT0DABdQz2ykk1LkbJJTwLA0Nmqw1bM5N4jrpWzLRGOnom4QKBsaZs53qyWoTyQdax4PxSFy5auS97LlXtC1e6HX-i9wsrv1xApm0LbOkRsa2Oz4/s400/20190302_3590.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon on a mooring in Tobago Cays</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaKbTEjxgMlPi2HHwKhenQW6eTTWcYn0vbCod0BLcHlrA1-cFNKTmtdiEATv8RmIdBoK1gremL3iiNt0fc6iYanzNTm4YAtGBxFeSxV2BrKBxiyVUVrK4A37aGtef8IKQM1-_euc7i4E/s1600/Screenshot_20190304-185623_Weather.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaKbTEjxgMlPi2HHwKhenQW6eTTWcYn0vbCod0BLcHlrA1-cFNKTmtdiEATv8RmIdBoK1gremL3iiNt0fc6iYanzNTm4YAtGBxFeSxV2BrKBxiyVUVrK4A37aGtef8IKQM1-_euc7i4E/s400/Screenshot_20190304-185623_Weather.jpg" width="193" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such a monotonous temperature range</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQiM0XuhQX8_a915v6vsuuNpWRiX1CHVAicfFPfn28xn29vJXOFTKvhHnoo28Z3Ozg9ydezOp5zfgVs9KTGvjevTmlz4vC_A-a4zYf43cE9p__FFb97pAhsDcnpAkfPHMaOyrbHFD7_kE/s1600/20190307_091953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQiM0XuhQX8_a915v6vsuuNpWRiX1CHVAicfFPfn28xn29vJXOFTKvhHnoo28Z3Ozg9ydezOp5zfgVs9KTGvjevTmlz4vC_A-a4zYf43cE9p__FFb97pAhsDcnpAkfPHMaOyrbHFD7_kE/s400/20190307_091953.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laundry services are scant here. Doing some emergency laundry in the sink</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfngsKGHcJSs4qyE2q_mkNwvBi2RUD7ttvhDZwsfJRg-viqoA8n-o496ymkie0S3vphYlkjxNo0xgEPGjWw_e5uiTmQYEqRbFm9Hh4lkNApJIBXqOJVkPOkZQ2tunJnHJ8uNUjHB7vwiI/s1600/20190309_103122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfngsKGHcJSs4qyE2q_mkNwvBi2RUD7ttvhDZwsfJRg-viqoA8n-o496ymkie0S3vphYlkjxNo0xgEPGjWw_e5uiTmQYEqRbFm9Hh4lkNApJIBXqOJVkPOkZQ2tunJnHJ8uNUjHB7vwiI/s400/20190309_103122.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More chores... Water run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5nevqOn9HZtZsrsp_zN_99xQHrH6Vp12d1yG7DbpwOCUEJS0VgZ0Yh7Viiy_oZgW3st8PSfN35xy6T2bQVjP3_d8ENKAZULrH8bgBVzYmzj1RRNFMmC6D5b9RGfuJ9xl-ZxWVcRpA1oU/s1600/20190309_3838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5nevqOn9HZtZsrsp_zN_99xQHrH6Vp12d1yG7DbpwOCUEJS0VgZ0Yh7Viiy_oZgW3st8PSfN35xy6T2bQVjP3_d8ENKAZULrH8bgBVzYmzj1RRNFMmC6D5b9RGfuJ9xl-ZxWVcRpA1oU/s400/20190309_3838.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Richard and Glenda who we met in Canoua and again in Union island and later in Grenada. They were in the Caribbean after sailing Elemiah across the Atlantic. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt_3Ok4CMO4twnjc8nzGYMsCHpENhadNU4Vcoa6BVGzA35cXaoYq3r9SRltzRJ6ThwcAu-PnkujW5QtI5DBmV7oQokjN42dwhWcEVWjqhVfETCp5Rzxdg7Mhxwp0SgbD0S6vfKmeOtpxI/s1600/20190309_3853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt_3Ok4CMO4twnjc8nzGYMsCHpENhadNU4Vcoa6BVGzA35cXaoYq3r9SRltzRJ6ThwcAu-PnkujW5QtI5DBmV7oQokjN42dwhWcEVWjqhVfETCp5Rzxdg7Mhxwp0SgbD0S6vfKmeOtpxI/s400/20190309_3853.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The anchorage on the windward side of Union Island behind the reefs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfO5Cp-nQhhN4jqleecNdapXQnOMCLNZ5dmWYNWNifCHbcxHi2W9n6KYWcM2LjdF4omldQHYiaX3tadlmWIWB7ZAyPNly5Rq_fief7n1v_7KFGuWrHQrTmkmH-tGpNeCLQ6tuh28KZ3k/s1600/20190309_3862.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfO5Cp-nQhhN4jqleecNdapXQnOMCLNZ5dmWYNWNifCHbcxHi2W9n6KYWcM2LjdF4omldQHYiaX3tadlmWIWB7ZAyPNly5Rq_fief7n1v_7KFGuWrHQrTmkmH-tGpNeCLQ6tuh28KZ3k/s400/20190309_3862.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is there another kind?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2U_Ugp2uNy4VIA9x0nMeQiFRqMldVaAOY9q-3kH1Sw0fLS4sBGeereabZG6n6-OlShu77MIhehhUmZy3AOzL8O5rqfCPlBMM3Clm3TagnKm-WqPzFs_xMOyk62Zm9G6uBS2-4zrZueU/s1600/20190309_3914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2U_Ugp2uNy4VIA9x0nMeQiFRqMldVaAOY9q-3kH1Sw0fLS4sBGeereabZG6n6-OlShu77MIhehhUmZy3AOzL8O5rqfCPlBMM3Clm3TagnKm-WqPzFs_xMOyk62Zm9G6uBS2-4zrZueU/s400/20190309_3914.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kiteboarding is huge here because of the reefs on the windward side of the islands. You get flat water and high winds</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlWQylKdoBAh7E6NYOu55r3rL9zIjP9MvRPf7-n5eGq42D9uYERbU-10o_rAvkwdCpJJzJySuutWnA4wgkLsQuAWhIV6x6XXRN2bNq4d4nk_Zw7O5591RxvquS61EBDNcRfgTHG8fCis/s1600/20190310_3927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlWQylKdoBAh7E6NYOu55r3rL9zIjP9MvRPf7-n5eGq42D9uYERbU-10o_rAvkwdCpJJzJySuutWnA4wgkLsQuAWhIV6x6XXRN2bNq4d4nk_Zw7O5591RxvquS61EBDNcRfgTHG8fCis/s400/20190310_3927.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rented this golf cart from our friend Twig who we first met in Bermuda. He has a house here in Union Island and charters his boat here during the winter and then in Maine in the summer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCn7WPcWs-DVesUAWI_4epra3NnMruUMGEsM9mMaf4j859Om3BdPCF4SkBEO0eQctlREYNAtG52v5BGyz1ZQmmCNfZASCBzDCdVz4Xnf7uwmNBJgLsv9R4P2JlH8qAwJgvlYrTINYh_c4/s1600/20190311_090518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCn7WPcWs-DVesUAWI_4epra3NnMruUMGEsM9mMaf4j859Om3BdPCF4SkBEO0eQctlREYNAtG52v5BGyz1ZQmmCNfZASCBzDCdVz4Xnf7uwmNBJgLsv9R4P2JlH8qAwJgvlYrTINYh_c4/s400/20190311_090518.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Customs office on Union Island</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmphoiEITfQNclrBBP9rtBWNJ38qPj1GFObuolNlIIq960op87hl9IYkUepUATedBp9DB3dt7U88jkcLIqxPvchCHLwNeEigHETVljlmJwMFyMdTqOtFg9MOgaM9xcj3o4R66DUYQO8oE/s1600/20190311_131253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmphoiEITfQNclrBBP9rtBWNJ38qPj1GFObuolNlIIq960op87hl9IYkUepUATedBp9DB3dt7U88jkcLIqxPvchCHLwNeEigHETVljlmJwMFyMdTqOtFg9MOgaM9xcj3o4R66DUYQO8oE/s400/20190311_131253.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That water</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Grenada... the final destination (and the start of the bad stuff)</h3>
Upon landing in Carriacou, we officially cleared into customs in Grenada. We enjoyed Carriacou very much - in fact it turned out that we enjoyed it more than Grenada itself. In particular, we found Anse LaRoche, a tiny bay on the north-west part of the island with room for just a couple of boats. We sat there for a total of five days (on two different visits) and were normally the only ones there.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNb2bafprfry028XtoKfMIPCFDbA3X84z7Z0ozn8TME39wU8e9GYQyOghG340J6QUnbEf4cAOzsa8ENiMRnFnISQCwbAOlX6tdwTbu-nHTiMl_HTvVfBy1na-jv21XE0OgIm85eLeEpOA/s1600/20190312_112720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNb2bafprfry028XtoKfMIPCFDbA3X84z7Z0ozn8TME39wU8e9GYQyOghG340J6QUnbEf4cAOzsa8ENiMRnFnISQCwbAOlX6tdwTbu-nHTiMl_HTvVfBy1na-jv21XE0OgIm85eLeEpOA/s400/20190312_112720.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We have arrived. Clearing in to Customs in Carriacou Is., Grenada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw7h8D79-DBvTOhNz6wlItpn9Hy5NLH3EWUznDo6vXvQRpSBOhjw9zSf-pz22o1ReJ3ULylnfnZAEgap6AiR4WK1ULEQuPeP30HWitavXQQs0UE7cn9QRfG3mfK0bqgyIdDT6V6-v3mAI/s1600/20190312_151923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw7h8D79-DBvTOhNz6wlItpn9Hy5NLH3EWUznDo6vXvQRpSBOhjw9zSf-pz22o1ReJ3ULylnfnZAEgap6AiR4WK1ULEQuPeP30HWitavXQQs0UE7cn9QRfG3mfK0bqgyIdDT6V6-v3mAI/s400/20190312_151923.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Putting up the Grenada Flag</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0279Iygm2PZjfofv26qg_VSW83OGTmf7q5OYLjpRNoSV0UzM3oy3-q18xeyfH6yxGxV61EQs6DMWzjzNMu9IBw4IdUzt9v-oMUuz4Iu7Ov8BU5i7WSDAqsiS-eizwdVkAwD5Pu1U50BM/s1600/20190313_162129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0279Iygm2PZjfofv26qg_VSW83OGTmf7q5OYLjpRNoSV0UzM3oy3-q18xeyfH6yxGxV61EQs6DMWzjzNMu9IBw4IdUzt9v-oMUuz4Iu7Ov8BU5i7WSDAqsiS-eizwdVkAwD5Pu1U50BM/s400/20190313_162129.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my local island buddies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jil5dE1588O-EQtUMgCFXNGlYoF-U9rD4NgOBiZqvop6sYNJoNymHWiFRDT2Z7xLwD1PolEfOB-6Nrb-MASmuS2hT-s6h6bFmGqmjxETh-KKlWZjoHSkiP75lJ0gAnBVuMgxLGyoSeE/s1600/20190312_211251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jil5dE1588O-EQtUMgCFXNGlYoF-U9rD4NgOBiZqvop6sYNJoNymHWiFRDT2Z7xLwD1PolEfOB-6Nrb-MASmuS2hT-s6h6bFmGqmjxETh-KKlWZjoHSkiP75lJ0gAnBVuMgxLGyoSeE/s400/20190312_211251.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Having dinner/drinks onboard our Friends' John and Victoria's boat Jovini</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Ik_HwWK_T_xG_qwKAPASrHaHA2unQJNUIhuw5aAsKcajd8QuSattT8Q7VMuhHqUY5QeXSY837RVTLs8CY1yCuZDj8AX9mw3pQ1MzeOGLGiMfWRnVfr1EIYXV8n2yBCoiasK3P3uOWUA/s1600/20190317_113439.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Ik_HwWK_T_xG_qwKAPASrHaHA2unQJNUIhuw5aAsKcajd8QuSattT8Q7VMuhHqUY5QeXSY837RVTLs8CY1yCuZDj8AX9mw3pQ1MzeOGLGiMfWRnVfr1EIYXV8n2yBCoiasK3P3uOWUA/s400/20190317_113439.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anse LaRoche from a hiking trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOozZK4oUf8SXdQkbUnZnTKVymyOe0Iigcli9YhO9mpi98LiaZ61QZ9Ix0JEKO6-4bX3zU1jxTr3D6klBpPtlPJDshZ1RitSEySIZRG6_HXqez2LW31KYFD0RyUFujZvb_qdvZg_eOP0k/s1600/20190316_115614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOozZK4oUf8SXdQkbUnZnTKVymyOe0Iigcli9YhO9mpi98LiaZ61QZ9Ix0JEKO6-4bX3zU1jxTr3D6klBpPtlPJDshZ1RitSEySIZRG6_HXqez2LW31KYFD0RyUFujZvb_qdvZg_eOP0k/s400/20190316_115614.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anse LaRoche</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
The Mainland</h3>
Grenada itself, is a bit difficult. The one bay on the Leeward side of the island worth staying in is the Capital of St George. The holding in this bay is not great and it's normally quite windy there so we were never very comfortable leaving the boat for long. We did go into Port Louis Marina in St Georges for a few days. Like many places in the Caribbean, the marinas are med-moor style. In this one, you normally tie to mooring balls instead of using your anchor. It was tricky getting in there (especally since they changed their minds at the last second about where they wanted us). While there, someone cut one of the lines holding us forward to the mooring - probably by hitting it with a prop. Not a great marina experience.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltX7MesUMF0IgKT3wLFT0_3ZH_CweudySuE1yMbZeQObM6xMdmxG61v5QwwZpXzx1bvePKWfKF8nJK2C_BX05BRt7mvlAYlPVnIk-JmxoVXO9ADoti-r68cw8-oG7DmXp1Od1O0pC0jU/s1600/20190323_4250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltX7MesUMF0IgKT3wLFT0_3ZH_CweudySuE1yMbZeQObM6xMdmxG61v5QwwZpXzx1bvePKWfKF8nJK2C_BX05BRt7mvlAYlPVnIk-JmxoVXO9ADoti-r68cw8-oG7DmXp1Od1O0pC0jU/s400/20190323_4250.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching Grenada Mainland on a stormy day. An omen?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyl60EgaWOuDs_wwFmX_XwcNuMVl3Hu_90eXCNyVUwKneyaXQMW3f85CLtc7PAGoOEnU-EEhotNFHQtdfJr1En1Bj8qVuMUkRpUbUDWCzYqV2CdcRvwBuoPehsvHA9M3m12VXMrIwKEA/s1600/20190316_3998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyl60EgaWOuDs_wwFmX_XwcNuMVl3Hu_90eXCNyVUwKneyaXQMW3f85CLtc7PAGoOEnU-EEhotNFHQtdfJr1En1Bj8qVuMUkRpUbUDWCzYqV2CdcRvwBuoPehsvHA9M3m12VXMrIwKEA/s400/20190316_3998.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artsy sunset shot from St, Georges Bay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</h3>
<h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjRX705WA-hdE44-MBgGLlRusxRRrXTAQiJ_qtzXYD6BB8t_v0u-8VaTVFXemvcxcUjj9ZyodP62nLaoNf8M4srNXeAeaBmiiUZGCTOtiwVClK3COXPhHlDDj40vGjcQFw3oWKH_W220/s1600/20190324_4329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjRX705WA-hdE44-MBgGLlRusxRRrXTAQiJ_qtzXYD6BB8t_v0u-8VaTVFXemvcxcUjj9ZyodP62nLaoNf8M4srNXeAeaBmiiUZGCTOtiwVClK3COXPhHlDDj40vGjcQFw3oWKH_W220/s400/20190324_4329.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tied up in busy Port Louis Marina. A/C is on</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</h3>
<h3>
And another Family Visit</h3>
Linda's cousin Jason, wife Trish and daughter Sarafina decided to do a vacation in Carriacou and Grenada in April while we were there so we had a chance to connect with them several times. Our day sail outing consisted of visiting the Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park for some interesting snorkeling.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBqDvURsFG_phFhzGSa2Wb-XsDn8OkXVDGvHFZuUSGINyYp1SiPaf8kUxaHtF15UPSwFVHPhFudkqA2hX9lL2uQNaiMP2qWqbAxus12DH9ZQa0CYi8w26Z7ckrbnDhUrKf6LOZVn2kIY/s1600/20190423_4608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBqDvURsFG_phFhzGSa2Wb-XsDn8OkXVDGvHFZuUSGINyYp1SiPaf8kUxaHtF15UPSwFVHPhFudkqA2hX9lL2uQNaiMP2qWqbAxus12DH9ZQa0CYi8w26Z7ckrbnDhUrKf6LOZVn2kIY/s400/20190423_4608.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarafina taking her first turn at the helm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfCCaTYcQpFRddWmc8zkBJjbOwm9TMmF75U8IPvBu4hQBx7WfaH8M2zE9p9xZGAPcrN47GPppI-TwP5M4Qslnr4E-vdRRMshKnij2GOhCXvDV5MPzyc6u98CpHsErbthL3yEbjUMBgYE/s1600/20190423_4611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfCCaTYcQpFRddWmc8zkBJjbOwm9TMmF75U8IPvBu4hQBx7WfaH8M2zE9p9xZGAPcrN47GPppI-TwP5M4Qslnr4E-vdRRMshKnij2GOhCXvDV5MPzyc6u98CpHsErbthL3yEbjUMBgYE/s400/20190423_4611.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post-sail group selfie with the Fam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There are several inlets for anchoring on the south cost
of the Island but you need to sail straight upwind into big seas and
strong winds to get to them. And since these big seas roll past the inlet openings, they tend to be a bit rolly inside. Grenada had more of interest on
land than on water for us. We did manage to get one tour in together,
but my ability to get ashore to do anything was getting very limited...<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
The Bad Stuff</h3>
This is where things were starting to get bad - the other moldy slice of our sandwich. It started with a little twinge in my leg a few weeks earlier, but now was full blown, agonizing sciatica. I've had it a few times in my life and usually a few weeks of ibuprofen and stretching and rest and I'm better. Not this time. The pain was such that I had to adjust my concept of "10" pain upward a bit. And unlike previous times that I have gotten this, standing and walking didn't relieve it - it only made it worse. The only thing I could do was lay flat. The few times I managed to get off the boat, I had a pocket full of ibuprofen (and stronger stuff left over from my broken collar bone in 2017). I was still working the day job but nearly 100% while laying down with my laptop on a pillow on my belly. I was flat on my back for 20+ hours a day. This was particularly not fun because it was 95F inside the boat with a really hot laptop sitting on me.<br />
Linda had to take over <i>everything</i>. And there was getting to be a <i>lot </i>more to do as we were arranging to get Argon hauled out and settled in for the summer. This was the lowest point of the whole journey by far. A great sadness decended over the boat for those last two months with very little relief and my pain was showing no signs of letting up.<br />
<br />
I finally reached out to fellow sailor, <a href="https://www.corephysicaltherapy.com/" target="_blank">John Murphy of Core Physical Therapy </a>via skype. He was on vacation himself at the time but did some distance diagnosis over video skype and gave me some homework to do. At this time, Argon was on the hard and we were living in a rented room at Spice Island Marine Services. My goal was to just get well enough to handle the 6 hour flight home the following week. I did get a little better, but that flight was a pretty miserable experience. <br />
<br />
The photos became more sparce becuse I was not really able to get out to shoot much and Linda was in no mood to. Yes, we were technically in "paradise", but we would have both given anything to be home and comfortable then.<br />
<br />
I managed to do one land tour in Grenada (with a pocket full of Ibuprofen).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNhcKVfFN_JmO7i-BJNUYDlKjFuJS8MD5WwMsaeHF9Y7VcIAPd28Ulf_7PsvRiEjI1L-xYXBAwr4UeUBSTACaZrtAzMlH5hrWUN6jUsOQqjmm9FdvcK-JrQZgUq02r3Na4JMPLEJa48g/s1600/20190405_4416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNhcKVfFN_JmO7i-BJNUYDlKjFuJS8MD5WwMsaeHF9Y7VcIAPd28Ulf_7PsvRiEjI1L-xYXBAwr4UeUBSTACaZrtAzMlH5hrWUN6jUsOQqjmm9FdvcK-JrQZgUq02r3Na4JMPLEJa48g/s400/20190405_4416.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the hill above St. Georges. That's David Geffen's Yacht "Rising Sun" out there</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-IfwZE8YltmStdJSMpSn4IbZxOgEtG9PCKuERuWO8_S7sQyaE-XuS8BwkB3l2GLKMIrc11ZCES9QrG8dNwFa-otCWrFXsXojM3zB7X0PcpOa2qIrpW0sAd-QojRZuJ7gNe8PobCQYOs/s1600/20190405_4422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-IfwZE8YltmStdJSMpSn4IbZxOgEtG9PCKuERuWO8_S7sQyaE-XuS8BwkB3l2GLKMIrc11ZCES9QrG8dNwFa-otCWrFXsXojM3zB7X0PcpOa2qIrpW0sAd-QojRZuJ7gNe8PobCQYOs/s400/20190405_4422.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During the invasion, the white government building had an anti-aircraft gun. US forces intended to bomb it, but instead destroyed the building in the distance - a mental hospital. This accounted for most of the fatalities in the invasion.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLSVlHuvxf23ErNv36i0eIhb-v06kpRcv65pPMWmCMzShqJ9eoWOZOJ_6dZ97vmUkkd3Ep2RKcRPP7OOlvZbqrMeooQkvwd4YMnA2qvXv8i_UjUiW6Kya4eWSA8N6_cXhOSs-Jp_Qk8zI/s1600/20190405_4433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLSVlHuvxf23ErNv36i0eIhb-v06kpRcv65pPMWmCMzShqJ9eoWOZOJ_6dZ97vmUkkd3Ep2RKcRPP7OOlvZbqrMeooQkvwd4YMnA2qvXv8i_UjUiW6Kya4eWSA8N6_cXhOSs-Jp_Qk8zI/s400/20190405_4433.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our tour guide giving Linda a Real Cocao Pod</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWkxwJm-Xs-1ANUEXUw0yyDlIogcWd2E25ix_L6zLyzcos5ReY9KlhoXTRLPq7Np7jWJiSZp3CqTpnWU9gz8DuyKOafvpO4cQMDzEItI86OsQ0UQ2mLEC0QrNJsPhzy5pH9LBGv4fjE2g/s1600/20190405_4461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWkxwJm-Xs-1ANUEXUw0yyDlIogcWd2E25ix_L6zLyzcos5ReY9KlhoXTRLPq7Np7jWJiSZp3CqTpnWU9gz8DuyKOafvpO4cQMDzEItI86OsQ0UQ2mLEC0QrNJsPhzy5pH9LBGv4fjE2g/s400/20190405_4461.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild but very tame monkeys</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oJWKWygtjPCnJyqLRPXoxIU6W_dGl_sMXzoA8UW_9snooYbvlQNluLZzMCPkUFgEvPfKhva2uXp6Pib852gmNJZTANXwQjp86_-AZBhh8MpQZidNdRAur8ceYYZHlCJNlESDrJNnmTA/s1600/20190405_4468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oJWKWygtjPCnJyqLRPXoxIU6W_dGl_sMXzoA8UW_9snooYbvlQNluLZzMCPkUFgEvPfKhva2uXp6Pib852gmNJZTANXwQjp86_-AZBhh8MpQZidNdRAur8ceYYZHlCJNlESDrJNnmTA/s400/20190405_4468.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can we keep him?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtWrQByBNExwhAiM8FcMiYdYaIJdb71oRJgGYV4FdRqxTsr0bpebDoElriroJffXiaK5h_uTMAZJyBjr9UW3BTjNNnJ-NhmXgGLRDOu1W-OUmUF-scY-Cyu4ugdyU74Fv3l8Jw3Np094/s1600/20190405_4498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtWrQByBNExwhAiM8FcMiYdYaIJdb71oRJgGYV4FdRqxTsr0bpebDoElriroJffXiaK5h_uTMAZJyBjr9UW3BTjNNnJ-NhmXgGLRDOu1W-OUmUF-scY-Cyu4ugdyU74Fv3l8Jw3Np094/s400/20190405_4498.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near the Chocolate Factory - this is how the slave owners used to live</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8poBF4pDQiaF_D4swiXgXiv2azLVV3tnU-_-F2EVQCDKKFwL673uUti7_VXKFQgPtTyabJ4pK2bL7uwMM_e9u-TvktNUbN9q2GliEIYB_HCo81RRONsnMXXaBrvT639MSYxiuWzsjdA8/s1600/20190405_4501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8poBF4pDQiaF_D4swiXgXiv2azLVV3tnU-_-F2EVQCDKKFwL673uUti7_VXKFQgPtTyabJ4pK2bL7uwMM_e9u-TvktNUbN9q2GliEIYB_HCo81RRONsnMXXaBrvT639MSYxiuWzsjdA8/s400/20190405_4501.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And this is how the slaves used to live</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK4IsIeXvT4g4Szp1ee466VUP8WIUf4ThAnPoO_emGKT8xo1lshKhAjvvJ8-5HGdXTjOqIWOLwXVIyMl0s4krKzWRqbcx4m3cbSqRnmfub-ckrk4aXmL_Rmhn2g4MynzCPKlcuWB1Sna0/s1600/20190408_222458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK4IsIeXvT4g4Szp1ee466VUP8WIUf4ThAnPoO_emGKT8xo1lshKhAjvvJ8-5HGdXTjOqIWOLwXVIyMl0s4krKzWRqbcx4m3cbSqRnmfub-ckrk4aXmL_Rmhn2g4MynzCPKlcuWB1Sna0/s400/20190408_222458.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda did one Leatherback Turtle tour without me. They managed to see this "small" one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvODVjeexPJC5zVwsaQvfHaMy0jE8VDIzRP1isL7GINNYCKuhcRwmTKePzZkNPwzK4Q0RQOUsM28eN6p4Sq0l0v_4aS30OCLyY_4qAsdrrzsh2R7C1tn9r97lhaRdAJ80PRgS6A-oKvOE/s1600/20190413_113934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvODVjeexPJC5zVwsaQvfHaMy0jE8VDIzRP1isL7GINNYCKuhcRwmTKePzZkNPwzK4Q0RQOUsM28eN6p4Sq0l0v_4aS30OCLyY_4qAsdrrzsh2R7C1tn9r97lhaRdAJ80PRgS6A-oKvOE/s400/20190413_113934.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Open air market in St Georges</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDUj8PC_Z0Tw80AXsqhTsxiHOMkvTQ5H4VcuBxazb5O_6cwn4_qUZNvNiWbOtKiTN9G6mosprimvXM-FYbhnQqBrqNkHxnZ6vnAcE8_SHcvsTdfGgbe8g7t9kQGUfxoDCwabY_I4D4j9s/s1600/20190405_193758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1035" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDUj8PC_Z0Tw80AXsqhTsxiHOMkvTQ5H4VcuBxazb5O_6cwn4_qUZNvNiWbOtKiTN9G6mosprimvXM-FYbhnQqBrqNkHxnZ6vnAcE8_SHcvsTdfGgbe8g7t9kQGUfxoDCwabY_I4D4j9s/s400/20190405_193758.jpg" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Defunct Cuban aircraft at the old airstrip. It was the building of the new modern airstrip in the south that helped convinnce Reagan that Grenada was going to become a Russian air presence in the Eastern Caribbean.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-zSrphHm3Fwhx-F7fyKq1saoNvF6adQvJeBAX2nxIt5VLl35gYBmLtok4kjs4frbN0OZnt3LNCdhVB17gcrhcEcWCMw8FDYjomWGTh3hzAhr9lwD1R2-HCZNIym0rCiGwu8MdxfmgbVw/s1600/20190420_182438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-zSrphHm3Fwhx-F7fyKq1saoNvF6adQvJeBAX2nxIt5VLl35gYBmLtok4kjs4frbN0OZnt3LNCdhVB17gcrhcEcWCMw8FDYjomWGTh3hzAhr9lwD1R2-HCZNIym0rCiGwu8MdxfmgbVw/s400/20190420_182438.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pizza night at Secret Cove Marina</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Tucked away for the... Summer?</h3>
That seems like a strange thing to say for a New England Sailor. Normally, we're enjoying the wonderful sailing around Boston during our too-short season. Argon is on the hard at Spice Island Marine Services in Grenada - sitting in a Hurricane Cradle. <a href="http://www.allhandssailing.com/" target="_blank">We also charter Argon </a>in Boston and Newport and this year, it's been frustrating to say "no" to so many chartering inquiries.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0TpfKjOxi8CXQG9L4kpFM-gcBYIBLNY9UvQESPrwu61E7EzWsAgl6FNek-b7w9IHi24XdhaJ3gpdrQHIsV5AaZuaUab39RBz7g0MCC-QK-FwGP2XH9RiEzZvSycufToUHLSh5rnM0Kfg/s1600/20190423_4587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0TpfKjOxi8CXQG9L4kpFM-gcBYIBLNY9UvQESPrwu61E7EzWsAgl6FNek-b7w9IHi24XdhaJ3gpdrQHIsV5AaZuaUab39RBz7g0MCC-QK-FwGP2XH9RiEzZvSycufToUHLSh5rnM0Kfg/s400/20190423_4587.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haul-out day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Work in Progress</h3>
A number of big (and expensive) projects are happening on Argon during the summer:<br />
<ul>
<li>New Bimini and Dinghy Chaps (Tropical Canvas)</li>
<li>New Main Sail (Turbulence)</li>
<li>Replacing Main Sail track with a Harken Track (Turbulence)</li>
<li>Custom Carbon Gooseneck Attachment (Driftwood Yacht Services / Turbulence)</li>
<li>Modifying the forward chocks to have a slot opening on the top (Spice Island)</li>
</ul>
In addition to the above there are several maintenance projects on the docket: bottom painting, varnishing, and outboard servicing.<br />
<br />
Getting work done so far away is turning out to be a bit stressful. The folks in Grenada are not the most communicative. As of July, we know that the Main Sail is done, but we've had a terrible time getting status on anything else. If I'm feeling well enough, I will probably fly back down in August or September to do a little in-person Project Management.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4zUHfIvvM2atyOqE-svfuN0QLj5sUnm8aB8d3XjuYvPrH5GHRJr8ork3PUWkpZtjfnjkmL4dOVAlljr8ZxpegJxjSXWqcN_Tt4Gu-UoT5DdKN4kgD03Gfsd_7bqSpiKoTUG_Na_8TlxU/s1600/20190424_4694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4zUHfIvvM2atyOqE-svfuN0QLj5sUnm8aB8d3XjuYvPrH5GHRJr8ork3PUWkpZtjfnjkmL4dOVAlljr8ZxpegJxjSXWqcN_Tt4Gu-UoT5DdKN4kgD03Gfsd_7bqSpiKoTUG_Na_8TlxU/s400/20190424_4694.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Stick is down</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_nJULd1_v2XzCUS4h9fWfVr1X13PHO0w2GFBQWo5LDeDtZ7fX0Pu5uxbYLMhKxa2SXXQfQY0hXpdljBiZT8K_06liQPEc6msqSKM2KU9pJcewwVcp-XOXzIDzbJbWuGpkYbWUGDHkcw/s1600/20190424_125911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_nJULd1_v2XzCUS4h9fWfVr1X13PHO0w2GFBQWo5LDeDtZ7fX0Pu5uxbYLMhKxa2SXXQfQY0hXpdljBiZT8K_06liQPEc6msqSKM2KU9pJcewwVcp-XOXzIDzbJbWuGpkYbWUGDHkcw/s400/20190424_125911.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closeup of the cosmetic Carbon Damage when the headstay detached</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVNoZQaZvsPkF1Q4J4IGAtj7bs54WxJ0U7nFh0veWOnfB-wru8rtzpsJ6S-x5lA6k1L6uKk-daWJd7adZWV6CuPhFjxNbrqvuPQM8rcnwDHQEGpbYWP3u1w1HglrAVBHps5fTHjy9G4EE/s1600/20190424_125923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVNoZQaZvsPkF1Q4J4IGAtj7bs54WxJ0U7nFh0veWOnfB-wru8rtzpsJ6S-x5lA6k1L6uKk-daWJd7adZWV6CuPhFjxNbrqvuPQM8rcnwDHQEGpbYWP3u1w1HglrAVBHps5fTHjy9G4EE/s400/20190424_125923.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of the Re-Engineered Primary Headstay Attachment Tang</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdVJwJvKOQNki9c7avzSoA9cfpCOQ9P-IiZeUD7F1rWlZyg0Eds2C4ZxUqZcW1Wb79fCHLySdhEL2kOZRIxl-QrGPqc_aPGX-H7NuFHwoblHUA-t7P8fY9HOI1ohGfcLkn3H_8qHgZ5E/s1600/20190426_080422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdVJwJvKOQNki9c7avzSoA9cfpCOQ9P-IiZeUD7F1rWlZyg0Eds2C4ZxUqZcW1Wb79fCHLySdhEL2kOZRIxl-QrGPqc_aPGX-H7NuFHwoblHUA-t7P8fY9HOI1ohGfcLkn3H_8qHgZ5E/s400/20190426_080422.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We left one 50w Solar Panel wired in to keep the batteries topped up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2p0qsaaBdTAL3NSHgSoocE2VxoN0d3ZcOR4zkqklHy88ckzwBGv-p7NvyTt4JHnnHq1CiIdvgjlSl0UR1lXMGs_9bE21IvMGnR1ihNLm-2L_XPsWhUA9rmYMjgH8T06UnukHs1rckNXo/s1600/20190426_080356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2p0qsaaBdTAL3NSHgSoocE2VxoN0d3ZcOR4zkqklHy88ckzwBGv-p7NvyTt4JHnnHq1CiIdvgjlSl0UR1lXMGs_9bE21IvMGnR1ihNLm-2L_XPsWhUA9rmYMjgH8T06UnukHs1rckNXo/s400/20190426_080356.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foil over the port lights</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ijxDxlxL_pjeimXhnH-8DUuidsZKgXvar7B0tZ9cHVU232lekxuSX9HxqKcAWBjQxNblAHl_NYbZyoqUQBT4_j63DdHLLfSFxbA5-ss7lSmNKOZTnWrXiekRsGCgxBdHrY3qXuXyP5c/s1600/20190426_080407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ijxDxlxL_pjeimXhnH-8DUuidsZKgXvar7B0tZ9cHVU232lekxuSX9HxqKcAWBjQxNblAHl_NYbZyoqUQBT4_j63DdHLLfSFxbA5-ss7lSmNKOZTnWrXiekRsGCgxBdHrY3qXuXyP5c/s400/20190426_080407.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enough Desiccant to get started. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZYveapGo8zh78nyV_XbewFiyWX2UhpyFlCyCnAq3Z3T9CbjvbdapEfSVP4eW2LIVhC9pc9nS8TuNIhWse-mIKk4RZsUtQnSXXtDAVKn6ll-vRTYOpXl-JIhl6ouXGBUpMsWi3zM2RBM/s1600/20190501_093229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZYveapGo8zh78nyV_XbewFiyWX2UhpyFlCyCnAq3Z3T9CbjvbdapEfSVP4eW2LIVhC9pc9nS8TuNIhWse-mIKk4RZsUtQnSXXtDAVKn6ll-vRTYOpXl-JIhl6ouXGBUpMsWi3zM2RBM/s400/20190501_093229.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New canvas Hatch Covers made by Tropical</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_aCa92Zb6uUwml5b3BMkf6iWCxKzgJISUTTmUGYeedYvBMnUbmv2rxBmNUsAI1eNPRmOE69DuQssmyAkZpYun4YINbjhiGYNDj7UjRE-yUwqcOY5bFQtnoQ6n1icwNpEWdjubOsazIMY/s1600/DSC_1361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1160" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_aCa92Zb6uUwml5b3BMkf6iWCxKzgJISUTTmUGYeedYvBMnUbmv2rxBmNUsAI1eNPRmOE69DuQssmyAkZpYun4YINbjhiGYNDj7UjRE-yUwqcOY5bFQtnoQ6n1icwNpEWdjubOsazIMY/s400/DSC_1361.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All Tied down to a Hurricane Cradle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
With any luck, my leg and Argon will be ready to resume the trip home starting in November. We really want that trip to be more delicious center and less crusty/moldy bread!<br />
<br />
To be continued...<br />
<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0Windward Islands13.444365 -61.3044214999999899.4937739999999984 -66.467995499999986 17.394956 -56.140847499999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-48763462013312921062019-02-19T09:51:00.000-05:002019-02-19T09:51:36.389-05:00Sparking Joy for Cruisers<br />
Cruising can be an odd and wondrous lifestyle. Here are a few things that <i>spark joy</i> for us on board s/v Argon. And a nod to Marie Kondo... <br />
<br />
<!-- Linda -->
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<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
<div>
<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
</div>
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<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sparks of Joy for Linda: </span></h3>
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<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi131aX06co5mcWg8_Hewd7ymNCE3QhIZ7Mf8xCnWRXGsfT7fEY4ckVgK-7172U5sz3sBtjDJccAcUmDY4cr9jvkdGXJWy0LRBT3GFeWvbuQWw87omBz4E5X1d19PQ7mN5U1JeBgaBfYRE/s1600/20181219_1540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi131aX06co5mcWg8_Hewd7ymNCE3QhIZ7Mf8xCnWRXGsfT7fEY4ckVgK-7172U5sz3sBtjDJccAcUmDY4cr9jvkdGXJWy0LRBT3GFeWvbuQWw87omBz4E5X1d19PQ7mN5U1JeBgaBfYRE/s400/20181219_1540.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Dinghy outboard
starts on first pull </span></div>
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</tbody></table>
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<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh177G71CrWgKKTcAf68Lu9rynU26SNqhkgLlwrlWtJ70xchbrkWa2aC6Hc5rJRdPDQJ1UjpN62b2KNKLgPdiw625rDc9HMClpkTZNvRFNwdhuEguZ7G1So_XSsHslEOkOvrAALsst16pg/s1600/20190219_091120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh177G71CrWgKKTcAf68Lu9rynU26SNqhkgLlwrlWtJ70xchbrkWa2aC6Hc5rJRdPDQJ1UjpN62b2KNKLgPdiw625rDc9HMClpkTZNvRFNwdhuEguZ7G1So_XSsHslEOkOvrAALsst16pg/s400/20190219_091120.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">W</span>ater (and fuel) gauges full </span></div>
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</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpt4K0oiYB558YBNXPH_HblEm0mMxU8zmUDBNU-w9oRKRMxN5pcpDcdYjcSvG4Rc1uZKtnQsloDKNjM2zMGL_kMR761rXlAj12bPzBZhPiql_8EqTiPAdpAb_JmeG2a2a-beDHrSxIoN4/s1600/20161126_104645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpt4K0oiYB558YBNXPH_HblEm0mMxU8zmUDBNU-w9oRKRMxN5pcpDcdYjcSvG4Rc1uZKtnQsloDKNjM2zMGL_kMR761rXlAj12bPzBZhPiql_8EqTiPAdpAb_JmeG2a2a-beDHrSxIoN4/s400/20161126_104645.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Street food and local markets</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR-PpL_Keb9XRBrSCqEEhU6E2CSGQgwlnIra4oFA1Z392-SebGzDW1uh976vlm_s0zGwwyUO2IrsY7ro9u_jWAjSBUNuqs8rFD1Wrb4tXOyNJI34eWBZX9dgSiq2b98aqplsoXL-wO7DE/s1600/20181222_1640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR-PpL_Keb9XRBrSCqEEhU6E2CSGQgwlnIra4oFA1Z392-SebGzDW1uh976vlm_s0zGwwyUO2IrsY7ro9u_jWAjSBUNuqs8rFD1Wrb4tXOyNJI34eWBZX9dgSiq2b98aqplsoXL-wO7DE/s400/20181222_1640.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Morning swims in beautifully clear, safe anchorages</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4bK9hA-P8bf9NnE6lL29FL3xQMiglzIqBuMxRMroDXpTONPA8G6qwhVPIkixEBJ1LR8_Fw2NlFjm7ueTZDrryxbPR0l_EdKadW3vu05PEXbwdG6zHfWqXJuGZqqmtd29kj9xk3PGKphI/s1600/upload_-1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4bK9hA-P8bf9NnE6lL29FL3xQMiglzIqBuMxRMroDXpTONPA8G6qwhVPIkixEBJ1LR8_Fw2NlFjm7ueTZDrryxbPR0l_EdKadW3vu05PEXbwdG6zHfWqXJuGZqqmtd29kj9xk3PGKphI/s400/upload_-1" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Early morning coffee in
the cockpit </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivQuIfOB5BmhlNBzFWSMMdUUfPraCmTrpDJ0E98OKMf7ew_mJI4q-qjM7IedPjYtGoV3-2bKXcHKNsA-AfrZDFD0yv_bpDuG9L2eoBuvwSRxgnK9DHcnBAxx9Ee-y0RzwY5UyIXXmBiag/s1600/20190110_113523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivQuIfOB5BmhlNBzFWSMMdUUfPraCmTrpDJ0E98OKMf7ew_mJI4q-qjM7IedPjYtGoV3-2bKXcHKNsA-AfrZDFD0yv_bpDuG9L2eoBuvwSRxgnK9DHcnBAxx9Ee-y0RzwY5UyIXXmBiag/s400/20190110_113523.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Visits with kids</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI20xX3YwRLTHfwUWMxhbDt4Cx5Cbcn0kaMyqVJnAnHnMdxzBoEj1o1TnjAhyeSmGU21ijzyM8rtOzUCS537KLhsrPclP4_3xuYQSf6WKEoKJaZ7frYS52yFZe4oF5TJdgfbds9v1AZOQ/s1600/P1060457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1017" data-original-width="1600" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI20xX3YwRLTHfwUWMxhbDt4Cx5Cbcn0kaMyqVJnAnHnMdxzBoEj1o1TnjAhyeSmGU21ijzyM8rtOzUCS537KLhsrPclP4_3xuYQSf6WKEoKJaZ7frYS52yFZe4oF5TJdgfbds9v1AZOQ/s400/P1060457.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Paddle boarding</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">S</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">parks of Joy for Bob: </span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rPj1XYeW7S9SvnDj1UmMOWUm9ZKUMb94-ixBjVAq0V_jTwYK3Xm5PyFJ2c4MwCPAjYMYTkfDb_OF43udpJSM7LBhXzohf9IOzX5GeRv93BMKGUWxPnXVrdkvYYzIgloCiQN6988Lx5A/s1600/Screenshot_20190122-163426.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rPj1XYeW7S9SvnDj1UmMOWUm9ZKUMb94-ixBjVAq0V_jTwYK3Xm5PyFJ2c4MwCPAjYMYTkfDb_OF43udpJSM7LBhXzohf9IOzX5GeRv93BMKGUWxPnXVrdkvYYzIgloCiQN6988Lx5A/s400/Screenshot_20190122-163426.png" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">4G LTE / reliable WiFi </span><br />
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGPeZSuEo2gX45xaXFboMaguby7KbEF-6LN9A5lgmYjXbo2hMGCnLKQp44_h4JjM2HtLoRgvG8eTiRGoUD9phZ3poDX27_mQu9qnKaxaKzSIyOC8i36flaPPZtqGVRg3XjiuR46ud89s/s1600/20190219_095229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1487" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGPeZSuEo2gX45xaXFboMaguby7KbEF-6LN9A5lgmYjXbo2hMGCnLKQp44_h4JjM2HtLoRgvG8eTiRGoUD9phZ3poDX27_mQu9qnKaxaKzSIyOC8i36flaPPZtqGVRg3XjiuR46ud89s/s400/20190219_095229.jpg" width="371" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Solar panels
generating 15 amps </span></div>
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</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWefdQZx5qbIlavf9-QWd7uU2mRlS8Lhbahm6VyM7d6TibPz_WVtuWztQZdXY-zgUrU1uj8NCFJ3FivHi75Z6NMYjbB4jvxikqceRHCl6wr4qHTmYuuNKkweApG7Tx2w3VK_ypyzvh3VQ/s1600/20181223_133335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWefdQZx5qbIlavf9-QWd7uU2mRlS8Lhbahm6VyM7d6TibPz_WVtuWztQZdXY-zgUrU1uj8NCFJ3FivHi75Z6NMYjbB4jvxikqceRHCl6wr4qHTmYuuNKkweApG7Tx2w3VK_ypyzvh3VQ/s400/20181223_133335.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Making pictures</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-mJ74V-50hWJdVrMT-WJ2JU-9WMAIXdMd7ir3mjfDAn2AjoRi2MdOurN-O_M7f4XXjoLh3sv-DlRcMaZcubsyX7xokHkn8Qi0upUN1-TIYypbaBXC34Uim7l2SzFkpE3m6HZquxdLAk/s1600/P1060640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-mJ74V-50hWJdVrMT-WJ2JU-9WMAIXdMd7ir3mjfDAn2AjoRi2MdOurN-O_M7f4XXjoLh3sv-DlRcMaZcubsyX7xokHkn8Qi0upUN1-TIYypbaBXC34Uim7l2SzFkpE3m6HZquxdLAk/s400/P1060640.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Catching Mahi (confession: this pic is from 2017; no Mahi yet in 2018/9)</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zYw8rP4gkQPTQTt0jE84SacJz9_Arcec8sejxcHRgK55ol0RdWrVVrWjrvHvALmCfuFYNLYfb_3Uejp-KBMoTjLZXfuKU__cQuMUw26cGEVG5DWmX7g2Hhyphenhyphenz8iMcy1ym4RN1tigmFYc/s1600/Image2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zYw8rP4gkQPTQTt0jE84SacJz9_Arcec8sejxcHRgK55ol0RdWrVVrWjrvHvALmCfuFYNLYfb_3Uejp-KBMoTjLZXfuKU__cQuMUw26cGEVG5DWmX7g2Hhyphenhyphenz8iMcy1ym4RN1tigmFYc/s400/Image2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A clean bottom</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sparks of Joy for Both of Us: </span></h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UL3cMV1fjw7iJDpE9kw9WxJOBvlS0raJXNbJ2Iw14sknA0RFgoK9yK_IiRwS937b8cSk0HuudRjfQM7exJyJoALjnADWh6lztpytu7ENy9PwuTH4x1J_7813Yu0qyzGNoW6skZXSdSc/s1600/20190213_3175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UL3cMV1fjw7iJDpE9kw9WxJOBvlS0raJXNbJ2Iw14sknA0RFgoK9yK_IiRwS937b8cSk0HuudRjfQM7exJyJoALjnADWh6lztpytu7ENy9PwuTH4x1J_7813Yu0qyzGNoW6skZXSdSc/s400/20190213_3175.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Finding unexpected roadside gems</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJe5HWvUhyphenhyphenONGw4WDnAq7-i8dwhnvvQ8PqqqNbwyoEZGbRq4yv-R2rxsTo243pgeJ8h6O7d5JrWyHid6vvD4N5Ggr7HHnknfOGjMwlPUBuUJQ03fByFQ1WP6EqY6hXzmy0bGRh1I8JpyY/s1600/20190204_2900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJe5HWvUhyphenhyphenONGw4WDnAq7-i8dwhnvvQ8PqqqNbwyoEZGbRq4yv-R2rxsTo243pgeJ8h6O7d5JrWyHid6vvD4N5Ggr7HHnknfOGjMwlPUBuUJQ03fByFQ1WP6EqY6hXzmy0bGRh1I8JpyY/s400/20190204_2900.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Island hiking and exploration </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Snorkeling on the
anchor to find it well set </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">7.5 kts beam reach</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sailing Argon</span></td></tr>
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Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-16547493708001076922019-02-02T20:16:00.000-05:002019-02-04T15:21:45.117-05:00Fixing Argon in Bermuda and Antigua<br />
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<img height="72px" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--7ESi4mJKMc/VonLI8VAFjI/AAAAAAAATxA/Ja-wE6H4s0c/s144-Ic42/P1010491.JPG" /></div>
Bob Damiano
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During our <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/11/offshore-newport-bermuda.html" target="_blank">passage from Newport to Bermuda</a> back in late October we had a failure of the outer headstay while crossing the Gulf Stream. The following details the process of making Argon whole again. Apologies for the geekery.<br />
<span id="goog_65111005"></span><span id="goog_65111006"></span><br />
<h4>
<span id="goog_65111005"></span><span id="goog_65111006"></span>Disclaimer:</h4>
This post is not intended as a criticism of Tartan or of the Tartan 4000 (or any other modern Tartan model with a similar rig). We are huge fans of Tartan and the designs. We can not say enough about how helpful, responsive and proactive Tim Jackett and the team at Tartan were throughout the process. This post is also not intended as <i>advice</i>. We are not riggers. We are sailors who follow the advice of professional riggers. It is intended to just clearly say what happened, and what <i>we </i>chose to do about it based on the guidance of several helpful professionals. One of the positive outcomes of this experience is that we have a much deeper understanding of our rig now, and I find that I can't look at another boat now without fixating on how the various mast attachment points are done. Other Tartan owners have asked "should we do what you did?". My answer is always the same: "Ask your rigger. Don't ask us". There's more than one way to rig a boat.<br />
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<span id="goog_65111005"></span><span id="goog_65111006"></span><br />
<h4>
<span id="goog_65111005">Rig details:</span></h4>
<span id="goog_65111005">Argon has a Solent Rig... two headstays. The inner stay is the primary stay providing stability to the mast and carrying the 90% working Jib. It is attached to the mast with a spoon (or lollipop) type fitting (more on this later). The outer stay is there mostly to carry the 150% genoa (reacher). It is attached to a sheavebox near the top of the mast. The mast is a keel stepped one-piece carbon fiber stick. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon showing off her perfect dual head stays anchored in Guadeloupe shortly after the repairs were completed.</td></tr>
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<span id="goog_65111005"></span><span id="goog_65111006"></span><br />
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Upon arriving in Bermuda after the rig damage, a tired (but relieved) crew began the work of lowering the separated outer headstay. The sheavebox that the outer stay attaches to broke out of the carbon mast. It appears that a weld failed behind the mast wall at the top and that the box cantilevered out of the mast, breaking off a small bit of carbon at the bottom.<br />
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<h3>
Why did it break?</h3>
The $64K question. The winds were in a good range and direction for using the reacher, however the sea-state was not so ideal. We found ourselves in a suddenly degrading sea-state with steep/confused waves which continually rounded us up into the wind. Our hindsight being 20:20, we should have switched to the Jib as soon as we were no longer able to stay off the wind due to the confused seas. Interestingly, most of the gulf stream passage was quite benign and this all happened just as we were <i>exiting </i>the stream. We thought we were home free!<br />
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We don't know exactly when the separation occurred. It was a very dark moonless night (this stuff always happens at night). We were struggling to control Argon and keep her off the wind. At some point, Linda turned on the deck light to examine the rig and it was clear that something was not right as the luff of the genoa bowed out in an exaggerated curve. We were unable to furl in the genoa so I went forward on a tether and saw that the outer stay was loose and the furling drum was trashing itself to death in the bow pulpit rails. After about an hour of manhandling with two of us tethered on the foredeck wrestling with the drum and two in the cockpit trying to control Argon's position in the confused seas, we were able to get the genoa furled, albeit sloppily. We now hobbled along with a flailing outer headstay still two days out from reaching Bermuda.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTP02umgxq2kUpEPRUXkik9MtRG-vEs48whye_Q0mK_OO49PpBgyf1_oYmMDhCBzf_1R8cOTfKNuAxON-dpSQ7Od-9eP5N99isKuChF4Gwi1Xclo9o-0UpnzQ6zpaeo5XzTKKmvNJkbA/s1600/20181102_0662.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTP02umgxq2kUpEPRUXkik9MtRG-vEs48whye_Q0mK_OO49PpBgyf1_oYmMDhCBzf_1R8cOTfKNuAxON-dpSQ7Od-9eP5N99isKuChF4Gwi1Xclo9o-0UpnzQ6zpaeo5XzTKKmvNJkbA/s400/20181102_0662.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The state of argon upon arriving in Bermuda</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9PbAL4PQNez5yes-FBBnHK1VIRFFjBh_1JVHXKYfyC741SIY3btc3PMDr-IiqUzL9mcrlteV8gsTc0oFv7-s4osQ6nuJlWqCJR9ZcIfoivtEcgK2SjG7l4vEqGiwN8EUsFBRF2BcJngk/s1600/20181103_095446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9PbAL4PQNez5yes-FBBnHK1VIRFFjBh_1JVHXKYfyC741SIY3btc3PMDr-IiqUzL9mcrlteV8gsTc0oFv7-s4osQ6nuJlWqCJR9ZcIfoivtEcgK2SjG7l4vEqGiwN8EUsFBRF2BcJngk/s400/20181103_095446.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sheavebox. Note that the missing baking tab on the right (top) side. This is the weld that failed.</td></tr>
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During the passage, we could have chucked the whole stay overboard but we were hoping to save the sail and the furler foil. The stay hung on the reacher halyard safely during the passage. Ultimately, the foil was so bent up, we ended up chopping it up in dumpster-sized bits. But the sail was repaired and salvaged.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9GYPZvqBTMmQe0B57WTDqcajaHcJEi04gsfnJN7AdCe0rwczlX5WCcUDyRrMzE6dAxGNCDUguzwBKq5D7ECdNy8Dq4co2ZPtDRN8mE5VaenKPTdrhKWN0y7aK2MAJlt6I_Q9ISMrDBU/s1600/20181102_0673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9GYPZvqBTMmQe0B57WTDqcajaHcJEi04gsfnJN7AdCe0rwczlX5WCcUDyRrMzE6dAxGNCDUguzwBKq5D7ECdNy8Dq4co2ZPtDRN8mE5VaenKPTdrhKWN0y7aK2MAJlt6I_Q9ISMrDBU/s400/20181102_0673.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lowering the outer stay upon arrival in Bermuda</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHvD7cVqOU2o5XQC3kIO_JWPnNOaGB4DJBhK9isaUwEACsXVCAoi3YGYD7958mXt3MN4tEyd5Dxll7g6un2sdVwHr498zrBfd_Ep22ZvesUM_wpDoI9sRN7riSucJVLAqFjtPGgGxQYY/s1600/20181103_140736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHvD7cVqOU2o5XQC3kIO_JWPnNOaGB4DJBhK9isaUwEACsXVCAoi3YGYD7958mXt3MN4tEyd5Dxll7g6un2sdVwHr498zrBfd_Ep22ZvesUM_wpDoI9sRN7riSucJVLAqFjtPGgGxQYY/s400/20181103_140736.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The outer stay foil sadly chopped up for the trash.</td></tr>
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We immediately contacted Tartan with photos and details about what happened. Job one was to go aloft and inspect the carbon for significant damage. Linda went up with a gopro and got some very close-up detailed video which we shared with Tartan. The good news was that it appeared that other than the tab of carbon broken out at the bottom of the sheavbox opening, there were no other stress cracks or signs of the weave splitting or de-laminating.<br />
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At this point, we were dealing with <a href="https://www.oceansails.com/" target="_blank">Steve Hollis from Ocean Sails </a>in Bermuda. Originally, we assumed we would need the stick taken out and the full repairs done in Bermuda. This was quite stressful as we really didn't want to be pinned down in Bermuda that long (for weather and expense reasons). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2IMvhfPJqHJ3rBcFRxLKWPCRcUXHqVE17hirZWUTJmwkCrGRs1C6ei3c9nd966wQPb2wOQpheEVS-ub12R_IEgyxZ5ZpA6mwUDntlPZx4j-8PegGgVsg3f2HC2yy8rfVFgCfT9nmhNLo/s1600/Image7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2IMvhfPJqHJ3rBcFRxLKWPCRcUXHqVE17hirZWUTJmwkCrGRs1C6ei3c9nd966wQPb2wOQpheEVS-ub12R_IEgyxZ5ZpA6mwUDntlPZx4j-8PegGgVsg3f2HC2yy8rfVFgCfT9nmhNLo/s400/Image7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda doing a close-up inspection and video</td></tr>
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<h3>
Hello, what's this? </h3>
During one of Steve's many trips aloft, he noticed a broken strand on our <i>inner</i> stay wire!<br />
We now had zero functional stays. This was also one of those silver-lining moments. If the outer stay didn't fail, we probably would have never noticed the damaged inner stay. A failure of this stay offshore would have been catastrophic. This is another learning experience and we would definitely not miss a detail like this in future rig inspections! But, now we worried that with the even more substantial repairs needed, our Caribbean trip might not be feasible. Happily, the plan evolved into getting the inner stay repaired in Bermuda providing stability to safely sail; and continuing south to
our next destination (Antigua) with only the inner (primary) headstay.
We would continue and finish all repairs in Antigua. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh41rOyBF2D8W-BOwsx3OvOn6SoUvuiPXNNEqKX0JG6jYFP3bsQToWfhmcfURisT-QY-udxydtERvS48HnNvQ3CQ2xu0AZmy3DVQVE-W9V7WGrJOXqZgt0-33gwYntltNPyLBqOr3eZ5zk/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh41rOyBF2D8W-BOwsx3OvOn6SoUvuiPXNNEqKX0JG6jYFP3bsQToWfhmcfURisT-QY-udxydtERvS48HnNvQ3CQ2xu0AZmy3DVQVE-W9V7WGrJOXqZgt0-33gwYntltNPyLBqOr3eZ5zk/s400/unnamed.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Subtle but critical failure: broken strand of the inner stay serendipitously discovered.</td></tr>
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So, now the process was all about having a new inner stay built and installed. This is when I first started getting educated on spoon/lollipop fittings. Turns out that the original manufacturer of this spoon is no longer operating so they had to build the stay with a different brand. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7BA8_90dxZNDBywqWRP7ZJ9Tz1Ga4eZpGqP0yTz0mvDu1THTLO6zo9FY80izxHBkebv77CguZj5DzLOnbhk5JnEeAhg28DcDlWkbmfNxasQhSValYu5btubE5iBt1lTCi7BXgNsxqrY/s1600/20181115_115447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="778" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7BA8_90dxZNDBywqWRP7ZJ9Tz1Ga4eZpGqP0yTz0mvDu1THTLO6zo9FY80izxHBkebv77CguZj5DzLOnbhk5JnEeAhg28DcDlWkbmfNxasQhSValYu5btubE5iBt1lTCi7BXgNsxqrY/s400/20181115_115447.jpg" width="193" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The old and new lollipop fittings</td></tr>
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Steve Hollis got the new stay ordered and it arrived from Florida within about a week. We did careful measurements to compare the old and new fittings and Linda went aloft to verify that the new lollipop would fit in the existing backing plate. Steve (with a little help from Linda and I and a few other folks along the docks) got the new inner stay built and installed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKoow2lIhyphenhyphenHgIJr0kVBktwb3FJaT4EGgLLVJV0wVCs7Pu51Bm45WVUqA4F_Ogbsf1PYi-NNjgou5YFG0MQbPgC9ck89IfhafeSIjqet1NIflIyiMuHmaNwWP2OP17ZO_1hI5I01_2ldv4/s1600/FB_IMG_1542320532857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKoow2lIhyphenhyphenHgIJr0kVBktwb3FJaT4EGgLLVJV0wVCs7Pu51Bm45WVUqA4F_Ogbsf1PYi-NNjgou5YFG0MQbPgC9ck89IfhafeSIjqet1NIflIyiMuHmaNwWP2OP17ZO_1hI5I01_2ldv4/s400/FB_IMG_1542320532857.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing the new Stay for installation.</td></tr>
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Tim Jackett at Tartan had very quickly sent us a drawing of a
modification to the outer stay sheavebox. The backing plate would be
lengthened downward and a "doubler" plate welded in to fill in the extra
opening in the carbon. Steve arranged for some initial modification to the outer stay
sheavebox including drilling out the pin hole for a clevis pin instead
of the barrel pin that was originally holding the stay in.<br />
<br />
Here is where we have to say how awesome Steve Hollis and and is family treated us. Ocean Sails was in the middle of a <i>huge </i>custom canvas project while we were there as well as many other sailboats arriving in Bermuda with various sail and rigging issues, but we never felt pushed aside by him. Steve's wife Suzanne and their son Austin (Austin also did a couple trips up our rig) were immensely helpful and friendly. In fact, we found ourselves invited to a lovely pot-luck dinner at their house after this was all done. <br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
And we're off...</h3>
With a few other repairs complete (nav light replaced, lazy-jacks rebuilt), we were ready to set off for Antigua with our single stay fractionally rigged Tartan 4000 after just three weeks in Bermuda. As it turned out, the conditions for the passage would never have required a reacher anyway as winds were light and way in front of the beam for most of it.<br />
<br />
Before leaving, Steve sent an email to Stan Pearson at Antigua Rigging to give the overview and tell him that we were on our way. The response from Stan (which came while we were under way) was "I hope they're not in a hurry". <br />
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Nine (yes nine) days later, we arrived English Harbor, Antigua. <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/11/a-slow-boat-to-antigua.html" target="_blank">That passage </a>was slow. (Should have been only six!)<br />
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<h3>
Antigua Rigging</h3>
Upon arriving in Antigua (and getting some sleep), we contacted <a href="https://antiguarigging.com/" target="_blank">Stan Pearson at Antigua Rigging</a> and arranged to meet him at his office. We went over what happened and the proposed solutions from Tartan. Although Stan's shop was way too busy to start any work for another several weeks, he did arrange for his local carbon expert to go aloft and have a look at the damage, and he started working on the repair plan.<br />
<br />
Apart from the outer stay, Stan was quite interested in the <i>inner </i>stay and was suggesting that we should not be attaching it with a lollipop. He showed us a typical "nose tang" from a Selden Rig he had at his shop and really wanted to pursue somehow having that kind of attachment with a toggle.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJa6jVBQ2fbOvHRHDQ-V2Ii1bsLo6UcXxwCQYBLw3i2Gxu2gXYEvt2RDXitcvbAufdiPNF2fkN8oNUk7n7qlHprifCkw8zDTxkvQUyDHm8QLF86qJbAOkA9mzul5t-Uq7l1XGNVfEBpw/s1600/20181130_1226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJa6jVBQ2fbOvHRHDQ-V2Ii1bsLo6UcXxwCQYBLw3i2Gxu2gXYEvt2RDXitcvbAufdiPNF2fkN8oNUk7n7qlHprifCkw8zDTxkvQUyDHm8QLF86qJbAOkA9mzul5t-Uq7l1XGNVfEBpw/s400/20181130_1226.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Selden Mast with a nose tang for the inner stay attachment.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Since Stan was buried in other projects, I gathered up the info I needed and contacted Tartan about an alternate attachment point design. Tartan's opinion was that the lollipop is adequate and they certainly have the track record on many hundreds of boats to back that up. Ultimately, on advice from Stan and following the opinions of other pros we consulted, we explained to Tartan that we really wanted to try and come up with a tang/toggle type attachment point instead of the lollipop and we would appreciate the help with a design. Within a few hours, I had a detailed engineering drawing of a modification of the lollipop backing plate that had a nice hefty tang protruding through the mast suitable for attaching a toggle. Stan and his machinist and carbon expert were all very happy with the design. We just can't say enough about Tim Jacket and the guys at Tartan for coming through with this.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJiWAzJ0DIwHzT3fGE6YvMm7hLevaFMUrFvjjPy9bCjeu-sibteXrYV37sshWyLO4ScAh-8j2l_D60wmmCQKisI57Q1FntTmUczAHH_N0k3-TDhbSQEg0WL2FiNiJvbfczoBp1G0-w_Nc/s1600/2019-02-02_17-55-24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="481" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJiWAzJ0DIwHzT3fGE6YvMm7hLevaFMUrFvjjPy9bCjeu-sibteXrYV37sshWyLO4ScAh-8j2l_D60wmmCQKisI57Q1FntTmUczAHH_N0k3-TDhbSQEg0WL2FiNiJvbfczoBp1G0-w_Nc/s400/2019-02-02_17-55-24.png" width="400" /><span id="goog_250774312"></span><span id="goog_250774313"></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A snip of the modification drawing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<h4>
Ok, but what about the one that actually broke?</h4>
The re-design of the outer sheavebox was fairly straightforward. The design from Tartan was generally agreed to in Antigua but with the addition of a toggle on this stay as well.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmKfDRVePUMirtfcj3xwWwxM8gHBK7tIgeiFDqirVhn32VGDNajhiwqADQEvAtApwJsIAKBJWP_3sWVkF19IDPoESX339Vk1wgPZOC5b4Xt49kRxiRnacwfP493_053ayst4EzBAuE6iw/s1600/20181130_1223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmKfDRVePUMirtfcj3xwWwxM8gHBK7tIgeiFDqirVhn32VGDNajhiwqADQEvAtApwJsIAKBJWP_3sWVkF19IDPoESX339Vk1wgPZOC5b4Xt49kRxiRnacwfP493_053ayst4EzBAuE6iw/s400/20181130_1223.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A couple of proposed toggles for the outer headstay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Christmas on Argon</h3>
We were really looking forward to Christmas. Not so much because it was Christmas but because "After Christmas" was when Stan figured he could get to us. As expected, things started to move forward late December and early January. Phil Hopton from <a href="http://www.antiguaslipway.com/marina-english-harbour-antigua.html" target="_blank">Antigua Slipway Marine </a>would handle the carbon work and his shop would do the final modifications to the outer stay sheavebox. We tied up at slipway and Phil went aloft with a grinder and cleaned up the broken carbon. He got an accurate measurement of the new opening so that his shop could do the final welds and modifications on the sheavebox.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCB_ebY7VqOCrkr4nMJUBapw75TMdTLNBskp_XcR6l5rmVo-GL84KmcY-TbLMnaM8edKu22YUBvUrlK13sE52QP0L2GdMufqCbwjqb6sZldnDT-CqNLKc7h2-4EN5WruOCGDljIXrjEA/s1600/20190103_151525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCB_ebY7VqOCrkr4nMJUBapw75TMdTLNBskp_XcR6l5rmVo-GL84KmcY-TbLMnaM8edKu22YUBvUrlK13sE52QP0L2GdMufqCbwjqb6sZldnDT-CqNLKc7h2-4EN5WruOCGDljIXrjEA/s400/20190103_151525.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The modified sheavbox in progress.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Within a few days, the new box was mounted and we were able to do a point-to-point measurement on for the new wire. Stan had already ordered the new furler and foil sections and they were expected to arrive the week of Jan7.<br />
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The next step was to move the boat to Catamaran Club Marina (near Antigua Rigging) for the final work. The furler and foil arrived at Antigua Rigging and the guys were busy building the new outer stay.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxza0RNgYTn8Qt5mCmqKVP2x0gEaqYvErSihDhirby1twKG1AAh3g7sUudrkoHY2L4Mb1XxiQHUJwl_ASi7Yq4INd2jKSyJydHpJELPvlft76MwehlxYzJT3NQBo6qA-Or16C_UPZFNpY/s1600/20190117_2250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxza0RNgYTn8Qt5mCmqKVP2x0gEaqYvErSihDhirby1twKG1AAh3g7sUudrkoHY2L4Mb1XxiQHUJwl_ASi7Yq4INd2jKSyJydHpJELPvlft76MwehlxYzJT3NQBo6qA-Or16C_UPZFNpY/s400/20190117_2250.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise at Catamaran Club Marina</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<h4>
The Antigua Rigging team</h4>
On more than one occasion, Stan told us how awesome everyone on his team was. It was very nice to see so much respect from the boss for the guys and gals who make all this stuff happen. One guy in particular, Deron, was up and down our rig more times than we could count and usually doing some very tricky and difficult stuff up there. This was not a typical job! Stan later said in an email about Deron: "While this needed the team to make this happen overall Daron was the MVP on this exercise for sure for dealing with the non-standard issues".<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOiOpUrVaBERAn6wMbLczaHCNYLVm23qyqLmAm_t2d-mgSynYfxDq5QbBut7gNgqFHiyBa2jWEYk8yHGm99KSNI1zpqpSDNWuyDn-kKKnYEX-Y1xlSEysb7PuEMS6uDYLpGuvMX6si5AE/s1600/20190109_2008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOiOpUrVaBERAn6wMbLczaHCNYLVm23qyqLmAm_t2d-mgSynYfxDq5QbBut7gNgqFHiyBa2jWEYk8yHGm99KSNI1zpqpSDNWuyDn-kKKnYEX-Y1xlSEysb7PuEMS6uDYLpGuvMX6si5AE/s400/20190109_2008.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deron up the rig (again)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh017fAWNtZTjzn55ObAawrGctRkwkcrRRWL94PSftvgxNrCyZMs2NjGtIO0RqLcgd4CJRkje5VJbulbJAcMG0tAe5IfJDkGJvEx6B9Cy8UBfalkqUjfKSTvIJHkqARYWgXWb9DIY4Uo4E/s1600/20190109_2009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh017fAWNtZTjzn55ObAawrGctRkwkcrRRWL94PSftvgxNrCyZMs2NjGtIO0RqLcgd4CJRkje5VJbulbJAcMG0tAe5IfJDkGJvEx6B9Cy8UBfalkqUjfKSTvIJHkqARYWgXWb9DIY4Uo4E/s400/20190109_2009.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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On one particularly long day, Linda baked corn bread for Deron and one of the other guys, Vishal. She also made cookies for everyone in the shop. We really really appreciated all the hard work! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsqSO4SQQulBP4LDhsSE4lusDI8MlGuExghCssijpnlK4f6ttPYB_ym-rEU5AdlGY47_fJaufqgqcYtxWzBmrC2X7s_muJUUZpC6NnHVLRMMiFhCv8Bu5Q5Khq0KJwWNvo07DlNAnpB8/s1600/20190111_2029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsqSO4SQQulBP4LDhsSE4lusDI8MlGuExghCssijpnlK4f6ttPYB_ym-rEU5AdlGY47_fJaufqgqcYtxWzBmrC2X7s_muJUUZpC6NnHVLRMMiFhCv8Bu5Q5Khq0KJwWNvo07DlNAnpB8/s400/20190111_2029.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Building the new stay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7DnFGihaNd1b83LdTxpURdMaKw6prOr5VfNdKuguf01ux9P8CjDzLWTT88tovgEnppxPUEGFOD1OpKXwgYiEiDui9qxKudeQfGwXf5vvR0Y0b3S7d1aqCDrTs67H5Zw9MG2-qmiwFwk/s1600/20190111_2030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7DnFGihaNd1b83LdTxpURdMaKw6prOr5VfNdKuguf01ux9P8CjDzLWTT88tovgEnppxPUEGFOD1OpKXwgYiEiDui9qxKudeQfGwXf5vvR0Y0b3S7d1aqCDrTs67H5Zw9MG2-qmiwFwk/s400/20190111_2030.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our shiny new furler</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRAVUUqGycUMBba7kzlk89zVHblgh3DLohkcwCZNK-eUcHP1POZYdf6iOhvUc8DBncIkpEWikE5iAsawNdSiYpDFMfpH2rMcglEaXMPt9TvDFGS5kncf-_CfickNj_povhVP80GmZF3JQ/s1600/20190111_2021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRAVUUqGycUMBba7kzlk89zVHblgh3DLohkcwCZNK-eUcHP1POZYdf6iOhvUc8DBncIkpEWikE5iAsawNdSiYpDFMfpH2rMcglEaXMPt9TvDFGS5kncf-_CfickNj_povhVP80GmZF3JQ/s400/20190111_2021.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toggle on the end of the outer stay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The new outer stay went on without too much drama and for about twenty minutes, Argon had two headstays again. But then the inner stay was removed for the more tricky modification of the attachment.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8LLmkAs7zUo25F_wNoQYEMyTkMYdlVopfr_hnhDUMZ0lG6uPMexmy9mAoFSDRF-jR__Rt5kSMGDiQ3h9N3NDdzb62m4Ofeo3R9s0rPHko-vYhy549lP3WyG8tYJGwCz68Z4e8nLI-rs/s1600/20190111_2051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8LLmkAs7zUo25F_wNoQYEMyTkMYdlVopfr_hnhDUMZ0lG6uPMexmy9mAoFSDRF-jR__Rt5kSMGDiQ3h9N3NDdzb62m4Ofeo3R9s0rPHko-vYhy549lP3WyG8tYJGwCz68Z4e8nLI-rs/s400/20190111_2051.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Attaching the outer stay at the bottom.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmA9iCy9pzR6gcyUIDrN2vOF-IqUyqAWIHp98AtDAtPjJUz78u-ZsLZjtP0TOlvQ4QTvc0UuyqOLjlGpo1j6X-_EpPXQubHYQxod6URR3blWD5lEBu2ArzGs3ZssgZW6SXEoKJA3Blvdw/s1600/20190111_2069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmA9iCy9pzR6gcyUIDrN2vOF-IqUyqAWIHp98AtDAtPjJUz78u-ZsLZjtP0TOlvQ4QTvc0UuyqOLjlGpo1j6X-_EpPXQubHYQxod6URR3blWD5lEBu2ArzGs3ZssgZW6SXEoKJA3Blvdw/s400/20190111_2069.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All pinned in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKXU99BzpqJFuFUlrxvSteBNXP2-VAiQTLUqEH06ETJmrTj2A4BWCsVM0nPvgNrxPh2GoJHL3QKPUuqUQWrFvO43993lZ67M6WCUspFHDh2Hf5Rn1qykThEGCNL3O6YFXz3n2XrhGGoA/s1600/20190111_2070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKXU99BzpqJFuFUlrxvSteBNXP2-VAiQTLUqEH06ETJmrTj2A4BWCsVM0nPvgNrxPh2GoJHL3QKPUuqUQWrFvO43993lZ67M6WCUspFHDh2Hf5Rn1qykThEGCNL3O6YFXz3n2XrhGGoA/s400/20190111_2070.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New outer stay attached to the modified sheavebox with a toggle.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3w9US0lnOQxF4yrFnojurPJmvwm4G8sKIIlXkygotKxAOZZtjwYN1Jipu3TRFoDyTQj295j_Onvm7L6Vvb-Ec0c5gTMGmu4kkr9WgffmBnJSVD1PeecKtg_OegkYz8DTfOnWgEjlcbcE/s1600/20190111_2078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3w9US0lnOQxF4yrFnojurPJmvwm4G8sKIIlXkygotKxAOZZtjwYN1Jipu3TRFoDyTQj295j_Onvm7L6Vvb-Ec0c5gTMGmu4kkr9WgffmBnJSVD1PeecKtg_OegkYz8DTfOnWgEjlcbcE/s400/20190111_2078.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detaching the inner stay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_qY-h5cC3sUkqBy-XkQKVQceesQ30xDcXEp5aDM1f8JaufdDGlaqdnxvdYTnwi_HS6YuAfL-jTxRg0tq8cmcKs0JcRZstuWDy8GZCKJtXY29Db58OHWncgF2q7wuXYfH1HKRLhEMQLk/s1600/20190111_2079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_qY-h5cC3sUkqBy-XkQKVQceesQ30xDcXEp5aDM1f8JaufdDGlaqdnxvdYTnwi_HS6YuAfL-jTxRg0tq8cmcKs0JcRZstuWDy8GZCKJtXY29Db58OHWncgF2q7wuXYfH1HKRLhEMQLk/s400/20190111_2079.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inner stay ready to go back to the shop to be rebuilt.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once the inner stay was off, Deron, removed the lollipop backing plate and brought it down to be modified per the drawing from Tartan.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOe21d_jGjz4pXqqpP7h3flD0i8yihL4QPYfl_V2HrQlBXtdtVFAMRLg5_2MHjNMCNJV2sEZt94qLiNCPw1j_4jCxrfvN6uDGrev6a0bgmPO0YUpmt97rlm1jbhgy1Lsx1X1mIdJpkCfQ/s1600/20190111_2086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOe21d_jGjz4pXqqpP7h3flD0i8yihL4QPYfl_V2HrQlBXtdtVFAMRLg5_2MHjNMCNJV2sEZt94qLiNCPw1j_4jCxrfvN6uDGrev6a0bgmPO0YUpmt97rlm1jbhgy1Lsx1X1mIdJpkCfQ/s400/20190111_2086.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stock lollipop backing plate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpu3M90AqQiQWGHQdpQ6wgoXBbkFqVMYISqxahEXNm1KKCYM93sVP7QQAxPtaE8Qd7xeTrfhMerOLZ92sMSENK8tsej6sVR3rdeNaTHX6PaHtXZGIarX7spj9TE9kcR7vG7l9vwxr0UU/s1600/20190111_2087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpu3M90AqQiQWGHQdpQ6wgoXBbkFqVMYISqxahEXNm1KKCYM93sVP7QQAxPtaE8Qd7xeTrfhMerOLZ92sMSENK8tsej6sVR3rdeNaTHX6PaHtXZGIarX7spj9TE9kcR7vG7l9vwxr0UU/s400/20190111_2087.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lollipop backing plate rear side.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyP72mbMvP7ohPZuhHVjrioPQDdmmyax1ny6Wnu7OexBifWV5lq_qjS10u_fd-CZgePhZZLpbhsbXnqGEkbfyP0VHm1DvqDCOldXO7BJ4mZ5HmI7cm80RinQePp3O6mmSuymHe4h0L9U8/s1600/20190111_2088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyP72mbMvP7ohPZuhHVjrioPQDdmmyax1ny6Wnu7OexBifWV5lq_qjS10u_fd-CZgePhZZLpbhsbXnqGEkbfyP0VHm1DvqDCOldXO7BJ4mZ5HmI7cm80RinQePp3O6mmSuymHe4h0L9U8/s400/20190111_2088.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The backing plate with the lollipop in it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Inner Stay</h3>
The backing plate went off to the machine shop along with the drawing from Tartan. Within a few hours, it was complete. Stan was so pleased with it, he made a special trip out to the boat to show us.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqF1GXsLJnhvlzc5ZmFQ-UNE5F_mcaE5Pm-G9FT1AaKwbbUm0bKDwZpv24q8_4L3nscSyHZllRd93IhMmAtAXCiRdTS_dhlF8aU9SAVMXancqtBCC-qWNA39nlW2mjquEfrw6kKPY0clE/s1600/20190112_2102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqF1GXsLJnhvlzc5ZmFQ-UNE5F_mcaE5Pm-G9FT1AaKwbbUm0bKDwZpv24q8_4L3nscSyHZllRd93IhMmAtAXCiRdTS_dhlF8aU9SAVMXancqtBCC-qWNA39nlW2mjquEfrw6kKPY0clE/s400/20190112_2102.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modified attachment plate with tang and toggle.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj27Jety1sM3YP6okeKKhWy1BJ2k42-OGJxdPi2IFeu7dG9m6PgJcBskrO4LrYFG6yDR0UJMhQ0Bz8vnoEOQtpoyeGoFU1XkCdFBjtwbd0DOoylc0eIK1d4XYmRrwsNxWA-KEY8M0MiXSk/s1600/20190114_140208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj27Jety1sM3YP6okeKKhWy1BJ2k42-OGJxdPi2IFeu7dG9m6PgJcBskrO4LrYFG6yDR0UJMhQ0Bz8vnoEOQtpoyeGoFU1XkCdFBjtwbd0DOoylc0eIK1d4XYmRrwsNxWA-KEY8M0MiXSk/s400/20190114_140208.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closeup of the new part</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h4>
Now, how to put that plate in the mast?</h4>
We knew the backing plate would not go back in through the hole from whence it came. But how <i>would</i> it get back inside the mast? Originally, the plan was to remove the outer stay (again), remove the sheavebox (again) and drop this new part in through the hole and lower it down inside the mast. The only problem is, that after going through all that effort, the part didn't fit through the hole<br />
<br />
Deron wondered if it could be lowered in through the mast crane (on the aft side of the mast). We also considered opening the hole a bit for the outer stay sheavebox to allow this to fit. Stan emailed Tartan and Phil (local Carbon guy) to ask about going that route. Neither were very enthusiastic about removing any more carbon from the rig. I must admit, I was not liking that idea either. At this point, I asked Stan if we should give up on trying to do this without unstepping the mast. He said that was "plan B".<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhinIwfhJuXcFC8mnqeuP_rvbtstvqk6vKQ8DCA4ciDlF0uDBzVkIFfG2K2mXvkWFTtvbWGbZdbhlbYbefDeiyXF6nm_J_8R-dBas6rDmRpvmFXRHanRN_wdMsm8VG8enHOyiiCy8VB0oo/s1600/20190115_2185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhinIwfhJuXcFC8mnqeuP_rvbtstvqk6vKQ8DCA4ciDlF0uDBzVkIFfG2K2mXvkWFTtvbWGbZdbhlbYbefDeiyXF6nm_J_8R-dBas6rDmRpvmFXRHanRN_wdMsm8VG8enHOyiiCy8VB0oo/s400/20190115_2185.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda going aloft to see if the part will fit in the crane.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In the meantime, Stan gave us the homework of sending Linda up the mast again with the backing plate to see if it would fit into the crane and around the 90 degree bend. Linda went up with the gopro and the part and got some great video. The part would fit inside the crane with no problem. But she did NOT think it would fit around the bend where the main halyard sheave and axle is.<br />
<br />
The next day, Deron went up to give it a try. We assumed it would not fit around the bend and so he was going to have to remove the main halyard axle and sheave. The only problem is that this is the halyard he is hanging from.<br />
<br />
After being up there a while and struggling a bit, amazingly, we saw him pull the plate through the mast. This was an amazing feat and very good news indeed.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_kBdMiE0db-Qb0T9m85gZjDbycg-IhQKGP5RGPg53gX-TCHwpRPEstaj9SIU-XCeKT_0c9H2abRXDUhkSMrOiw2jErCzMNoVm4Xvr1jgN8FOnOzXXJQlQqpC7UXMyDsoqwUMfyh1nsM/s1600/20190115_2124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_kBdMiE0db-Qb0T9m85gZjDbycg-IhQKGP5RGPg53gX-TCHwpRPEstaj9SIU-XCeKT_0c9H2abRXDUhkSMrOiw2jErCzMNoVm4Xvr1jgN8FOnOzXXJQlQqpC7UXMyDsoqwUMfyh1nsM/s400/20190115_2124.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Messenger line holding the part which has been fed into the crane opening.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCH0xuULfOg4RBcB2uc1r321VViM-OLmhbxLNBkbLzD_qNj4QajWjwaCHERbU8xN2N5UHmThQZ225BPesRf_qG0p7c_vTpoo4f_FXWmKx-BCbOqY-Gafj6yTJZzU8bMFrnXnKLQtsRxz4/s1600/20190115_2130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCH0xuULfOg4RBcB2uc1r321VViM-OLmhbxLNBkbLzD_qNj4QajWjwaCHERbU8xN2N5UHmThQZ225BPesRf_qG0p7c_vTpoo4f_FXWmKx-BCbOqY-Gafj6yTJZzU8bMFrnXnKLQtsRxz4/s400/20190115_2130.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SUCCESS!!! Deron managed to fish that thing around the bend and out through the mast.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Now, we really felt like we were on the home stretch. The outer stay was attached again and then the newly built inner stay brought out and attached to the new attachment point with a toggle.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMx-4scsAu20NtbdSbD0nm-ZUF0bMCfCuGpDqh-RNXj1Mu96CBj8DzCmvH04ARkm1AmBgCK_4GR6WBQEEuBH9zJn7Ipr_mIL7ajC9F_nDwNaaXPu63d_ZCdb-LUJDP05n0xzMeHTCZz00/s1600/20190118_2293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMx-4scsAu20NtbdSbD0nm-ZUF0bMCfCuGpDqh-RNXj1Mu96CBj8DzCmvH04ARkm1AmBgCK_4GR6WBQEEuBH9zJn7Ipr_mIL7ajC9F_nDwNaaXPu63d_ZCdb-LUJDP05n0xzMeHTCZz00/s400/20190118_2293.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Both stays attached with toggles. Someday when the mast is down, we will clean up and paint all the bruises from the flailing attachment plate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
All that was left to do now was to do a dock-side tuning and put the sails back on. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeoFBJygxpoJTKZp11KOygO4YHdxfMgohJqB4Eh4aboMGmjteeG6IMEtmfkrd_P2ACifDZjN7z8PzpiKBRBO4sP4zzKJNp0MQfwA2thRCK6Y_9wgz5C1SOxQZLVkGR73V0aJxgEkkql_k/s1600/20190116_2225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeoFBJygxpoJTKZp11KOygO4YHdxfMgohJqB4Eh4aboMGmjteeG6IMEtmfkrd_P2ACifDZjN7z8PzpiKBRBO4sP4zzKJNp0MQfwA2thRCK6Y_9wgz5C1SOxQZLVkGR73V0aJxgEkkql_k/s400/20190116_2225.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was a long time coming... two months after the damage, we've got two head stays again.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwgq6sA20Mb5sPfhQZAB3eI53oLXok_-I853xKQ-3_Xhh3Jp6W5ykx3ExbptU4CpPFkzitJim_q670hpD-iy9Wpu8lckUFfNH7kAuXwvMv2a8f51VvngLTHgPaSNjfqwypbt2dLpVir2Y/s1600/20190131_2711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwgq6sA20Mb5sPfhQZAB3eI53oLXok_-I853xKQ-3_Xhh3Jp6W5ykx3ExbptU4CpPFkzitJim_q670hpD-iy9Wpu8lckUFfNH7kAuXwvMv2a8f51VvngLTHgPaSNjfqwypbt2dLpVir2Y/s400/20190131_2711.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon on a close reach towards Dominica with the new rig. It's good to be sailing and exploring again!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Take-aways</h3>
We feel like Argon is better than ever now. We also feel like we know Argon better than ever. We have a new respect for the power in that 150% Reacher and will be much more judicious about when to use it and when to keep it rolled up. And we know better what to look for in rig fatigue.<br />
<br />
Although this cost us two months of delay in our journey, most of the delay was in a place we love: Antigua. Ultimately, we were able to continue moving south along our planned route, albeit several weeks behind. We've put quite a few miles on Argon since the repair and everything looks and feels great so far. Tomorrow we sail to Martinique!<br />
<br />
<br />Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com0Falmouth, Antigua and Barbuda17.0289837 -61.78608099999996717.025188200000002 -61.791123499999969 17.0327792 -61.781038499999966tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923130508210378771.post-1001020678117613982018-11-30T06:16:00.002-05:002018-11-30T20:04:02.905-05:00A Slow Boat To Antigua<br />
<h3>
Prologue</h3>
Another name for this blog post could be "Chasing the Trades (but never catching them)". Not only our pre-departure forecast, but also our daily weather updates continually assured us that our winds were <i>just a bit further ahead</i>. But alas, the easterly trade winds were like a tempestuous debutante who decided not to show up for her party (until the last 50nm - sigh).<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
<div>
<img height="70px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0q_PDE7cr7g/V1_TLkA75JI/AAAAAAAAVAg/78wJeZskUYASMGx1RlP3q4L72yjbND5WgCKgB/s320/linda-headshot.JPG" /></div>
Captain Linda Perry Riera
</div>
<br />
Despite tremendous anxiety about our fuel and a frequent feeling of vulnerability, there were abundant joys including fascinating sunsets to starboard with simultaneous moon rises to port every evening, each one spectacular but different. And with a full moon mid passage and scant cloud cover, we were blessed with illuminated nights and could even sometimes see our moon shadows in the cockpit. In addition, there were calm seas for most of the passage and we were
able to relax for long spells (definitely not the norm for our off shore
experience). The indescribable deep blue encircling as far as one can see is mesmerizing.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFtpDoTVTODNfOXHDQRCXH2YWdskKgyoTkQZbNS0PzJVyx5E51gpxIFGMQBNh5p9zVH9kIanshmgegICwf4DRx2bInlt2VfpQCdD8yylWRPfRH-ysgul9X7tZBo-SAPpwoUTr1TUNp6co/s1600/20181123_1036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFtpDoTVTODNfOXHDQRCXH2YWdskKgyoTkQZbNS0PzJVyx5E51gpxIFGMQBNh5p9zVH9kIanshmgegICwf4DRx2bInlt2VfpQCdD8yylWRPfRH-ysgul9X7tZBo-SAPpwoUTr1TUNp6co/s400/20181123_1036.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moonrise to port, and sunset to starboard every evening.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Ultimately, what we thought would be a six (or seven) day passage with some motoring during the first half and good sailing during the remainder, was nine days of continual evaluation of how best to make southerly progress in contrary winds with limited fuel and electricity. A veil of anxiety lay over us knowing we did not have diesel to fall back on and also rationing the electricity. I think we are better sailors for this experience, certainly more humble.<br />
<br />
<h2>
The Journey</h2>
"Sunday is a good possibility" said Ken McKinley. That sentence in an
email from our weather router got us in full-on preparation mode. <br />
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<div style="border-bottom: solid gray thin; font-size: 8pt; width: 200px;">
<div>
<img height="70px" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--7ESi4mJKMc/VonLI8VAFjI/AAAAAAAATxA/Ja-wE6H4s0c/s144-Ic42/P1010491.JPG" /></div>
Capt. Bob Damiano
</div>
<br />
<br />
We had been sitting in Bermuda for a couple weeks getting repairs done, and waiting for a weather window. And now we had one.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq134gc671JMU_88oiHZZY95-KWrIahzcTYQ5PooOkhDEkKqBJeug1KYGTQiYYnMJDfYdCXuYHOd436oULApK_NhMNdNDSFTE098S18a32WuX7oMfiDhxgJx24gGb7M2LoexJgSLgEQag/s1600/P1030761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq134gc671JMU_88oiHZZY95-KWrIahzcTYQ5PooOkhDEkKqBJeug1KYGTQiYYnMJDfYdCXuYHOd436oULApK_NhMNdNDSFTE098S18a32WuX7oMfiDhxgJx24gGb7M2LoexJgSLgEQag/s400/P1030761.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argon in a prime location on the seawall in Bermuda before departing for Antigua.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
This was going to be the longest double-handed sail we had ever done (950nm). And after a not-so-great experience coming over to <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/11/offshore-newport-bermuda.html">Bermuda from Newport</a>, we were a little bit nervous. The word among the cruisers in Bermuda was that most everyone was going to go Sunday 18Nov with some people leaving Saturday evening prior. Indeed, there was quite a line at the customs dock first thing Sunday morning.<br />
<br />
A to-do list taped to our nav table had all of the check boxes
checked. We had done a lot to get ready to leave from Bermuda not even
considering all the repair work we had to do because of the damage we
sustained coming over from Newport. Apparently, we were ready to go.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvU-gFcpw0ROufLiTgtKWIrnoWdBTmQekuyMYjFfWqD0BRKVhyP6WWHZ4iuyeHO3RGHzt8BdQuZl7lObMS6A6-uWQMBHminTLJziHa6AGw3TC6_gL8_ffuXwEeOEXZ_L31AztO42Rixjc/s1600/20181117_205753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="778" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvU-gFcpw0ROufLiTgtKWIrnoWdBTmQekuyMYjFfWqD0BRKVhyP6WWHZ4iuyeHO3RGHzt8BdQuZl7lObMS6A6-uWQMBHminTLJziHa6AGw3TC6_gL8_ffuXwEeOEXZ_L31AztO42Rixjc/s640/20181117_205753.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A flurry of activity kept us busy the two days before setting sail for Antigua.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We knew this was not an ideal window given the predicted amount of light and southerly winds which would require substantial motoring. But we liked that there were no "rigorous" winds or seas expected. We calculated and re-calculated the likely amount of diesel that would be needed and ultimately determined that we had enough with about 30% margin. An over-arching message in the forecast was "just get to latitude 24 asap and you will begin to catch some easterlies". As we would later learn, we should have over-planned for fuel. On a down-wind passage, if the forecast wind direction is off by 10 or 20 degrees either way, it's not a big deal. But on a passage where you know things will be upwind a lot of the time, 10 degrees is huge - and this is well within the expected accuracy of any forecast! <br />
<br />
<h3>
Passage Notes</h3>
Following are some day-to-day notes made during the Passage from Bermuda to Antigua in November 2018. I also include some of the daily <span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">"letters home" </span>to our friends and family.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Sunday 18 Nov: Day 1</h3>
This morning I woke up at 3 a.m. and had the butterflies. This was really happening today! Linda said she was appropriately nervous - enough to keep her alert and on her toes, but I was pretty much a bundle of nerves. Why am I not in my lovely home in Newport <i>soaking in the frickin hot tub</i>!!?<br />
<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHGIRfl2qGa6-76zmoDI17kKfkZD5BeGFAi6Y2UwUMNcA7vXyeK8yMOBgbirKgqTky87FvwFQGmP6rCtlNVbtVZhLoYMf2u4Aq2qlVqLPt4hen_gHpJ465dU8Hc7MsAJwp3SXmNvalDck/s1600/20181123_1081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHGIRfl2qGa6-76zmoDI17kKfkZD5BeGFAi6Y2UwUMNcA7vXyeK8yMOBgbirKgqTky87FvwFQGmP6rCtlNVbtVZhLoYMf2u4Aq2qlVqLPt4hen_gHpJ465dU8Hc7MsAJwp3SXmNvalDck/s400/20181123_1081.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda posing with Her Majesty's Customs Officer after checking out of customs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Fresh from lessons learned on our <a href="http://www.argonsailing.com/2018/11/offshore-newport-bermuda.html">previous passage</a>, we really wanted to be careful and cautious, do things right and avoid mistakes. But, as we were pulling out of St. George Harbor we realized we had forgotten to lower the Bermudian courtesy flag and didn't want that flailing around during the passage. I went on deck (just as things were starting to get a bit bouncy as we were leaving the Town Cut) and lowered the flag. I let the flag halyard slip out of my hands and watched it get nicely fouled in the lazy jack lines. Ugh... To be sure, this wasn't really a big problem, but this small thing psyched me out because we made our first goof before we even got out of the cut! I was later able to unfoul that line in calmer seas.<br />
<br />
Day one was mostly sailing very fast with a nice northeast wind behind us and a sea state that was quite manageable, although a bit uncomfortable. We had four to six foot seas with an occasional eight for fun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk8zGSXegHSTsGHz3SqVpCxMMyGgahyCRRe6037M0xu-QMyuqYhx6Gy-y6gWZfyjxDpugve4xXBOtloF9HmoLGG_7I_inVAqon9ilcs8LstYek9_bQzJtiLLUjlKw3OT6JQPNyJelMohk/s1600/Image1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk8zGSXegHSTsGHz3SqVpCxMMyGgahyCRRe6037M0xu-QMyuqYhx6Gy-y6gWZfyjxDpugve4xXBOtloF9HmoLGG_7I_inVAqon9ilcs8LstYek9_bQzJtiLLUjlKw3OT6JQPNyJelMohk/s400/Image1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out in the open water with Bermuda visible a few miles to the north. This would be the most wind we would have for the next 9 days.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4055TZebb-a1PUJiM8ooFJkdpennTSy79NSReHudGVjL5-wiEEwQ-UGtBVPg1Zn5h34Sy93sjXkNPqBhR3ioCts5b9PLGr1wgznDCuk_0zEitjSLoWfHBk0joNz_SoFvweEzlruHSwWA/s1600/20181123_1057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4055TZebb-a1PUJiM8ooFJkdpennTSy79NSReHudGVjL5-wiEEwQ-UGtBVPg1Zn5h34Sy93sjXkNPqBhR3ioCts5b9PLGr1wgznDCuk_0zEitjSLoWfHBk0joNz_SoFvweEzlruHSwWA/s400/20181123_1057.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After a fast start, sailing would become quite slow for the next many days.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SCbz2fIh8nBgjnzxIARagSrImg_jgfe-XhSOxXG9n1aHhbqTTtEQKn0Wxp7IRLbcEEs7k1eSZDgvdoCcrzoya3W5w7MoDmUuEoS6cC1YgyIGq0HsfJC1vC1nNHeblq1S8-9iwEBFaFE/s1600/20181123_0957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SCbz2fIh8nBgjnzxIARagSrImg_jgfe-XhSOxXG9n1aHhbqTTtEQKn0Wxp7IRLbcEEs7k1eSZDgvdoCcrzoya3W5w7MoDmUuEoS6cC1YgyIGq0HsfJC1vC1nNHeblq1S8-9iwEBFaFE/s400/20181123_0957.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mostly calm seas made for nice conditions for sleeping in the cockpit many nights.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h4>
Energy Management</h4>
A complication with leaving from Bermuda on a passage that's going to require a lot of motoring is that there is no shore power in Bermuda to keep batteries topped up. And you can't sit there and run your engine for hours (wasting fuel) before you leave. Things were overcast on the day of our departure as well as several days prior, so the solar panels did not do a lot for us. Thus we were starting out with an energy deficit. We figured that once we got more south with sunny days, the panels would do their thing, but another lesson learned later is that the panels don't work so great when sailing due south because the panels are shaded by the sails for a good part of the day!<br />
<br />
The charge in our batteries became an important detail in our lives. On top of our usual consumption, the Fleet One satellite system was also running which can suck a bit of power (depending on how bouncy things are). The result of all this was it we were running a little lean on voltage the first night and we did have to run the engine on idle for a bit just make some electrons - this was engine time, we had not planned on.<br />
<br />
Wind was in the high teens and low twenties and just at, or slightly forward of, the beam. We erred on the side of caution and kept the main reefed most of the time and because of that, we gave up a bit of speed. This may have been a small mistake as <i>getting south fast</i> was the mantra for this window.<br />
<br />
I didn't feel very well for most of the first day and night. I think it was probably nerves and a little bit of sea sickness. Linda, as usual, was rock solid. After midnight, the winds dropped more than expected and we got into quite a dead spot for a lot of the next day. So this meant we had to fire up the engine a bit sooner than we had planned. We immediately began tracking our engine hours.<br />
<br />
We were beginning to have a bit of anxiety about fuel capacity. We resumed our (re)calculations and thinking about how we were going to use the fuel we have. On this trip, we carried one extra 5 gallon jerry jug in to supplement our 77 gallon main tank (in hindsight, this is embarrassing). We made a satellite phone call (cha-ching!) to Ken to discuss the situation. He advised that if we could just get to latitude 29N, we should find some Southwest wind and sail a decent angle in for a while. But as we approached 29N, it was still really dead and we were resigning ourselves to motoring overnight (which we <i>really </i>had not planned on doing).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3NhLIxGVYba45eek67qoeIy3Qbm7NGI_yqFmmuWqQeDLOopy3AuvSW-GddSaqgQ8qoim-Q_YhbImTaCo1SwqaoQ9VFDrv5nNgp8gmXppKlDJldNxwtgVJ-BKReRdgiFAvx1JOL0qBnA/s1600/20181123_1017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3NhLIxGVYba45eek67qoeIy3Qbm7NGI_yqFmmuWqQeDLOopy3AuvSW-GddSaqgQ8qoim-Q_YhbImTaCo1SwqaoQ9VFDrv5nNgp8gmXppKlDJldNxwtgVJ-BKReRdgiFAvx1JOL0qBnA/s400/20181123_1017.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jethro commenced to cypherin'.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I was down below resting and trying not to think about diesel, when I heard Linda shut off the engine and roll out the jib. That was a great sound to hear! I came up, looked at the wind gauge and saw a nice 12.6 knots of wind at a decent angle. We sailed beautifully all night and our spirits were buoyed. Winds were mostly constant 10 to 12 kt. As Ken predicted, this SW wind started exactly at 29N and not a second of latitude before! (This would be about the last time we caught the wind as predicted.)<br />
<br />
<i>first of our daily sat messages to family/friends:</i><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Good morning. <br />Pos 30:6.6n. 64:11.68w<br /><br />Winds currently very light ne. Resisting motoring but sailing very slowly (<5kts). Until 0300, was making very good speed. <br /><br />Trying to reserve fuel for the coming headwinds.<br />Seas very flat, partly cloudy.<br /><br />Yesterday was fast. The boat feels great with the new rig. Seas weren't very high, but uncomfortable. I didn't feel well most of yesterday and overnight. Linda was fine and a great skipper as usual. <br /><br />Was very cloudy and rainy until about 1am which made things a little less fun. Then we got some nice moonlight and we should have some sun today. <br /><br />We're doing fine. Love to all</span></span></blockquote>
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<br />
<h3>
Tuesday 21 Nov: Day 3</h3>
<br />
Early Tuesday morning it became clear we were not going to be able to to continue sailing much longer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUAREDgZfN5SlZ-c0ZAwzoIuqkFSFfhpgKP6ACEpyBpDixcz2NSKYPmTqNFKwSllzzioFWaZSGTcPiaZbrIk_r2PJ5g02v56Jxu-PU9wdjE6V8CrGqD6aqmSYHMhsVPKtkws_aNZHenk/s1600/20181123_1010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUAREDgZfN5SlZ-c0ZAwzoIuqkFSFfhpgKP6ACEpyBpDixcz2NSKYPmTqNFKwSllzzioFWaZSGTcPiaZbrIk_r2PJ5g02v56Jxu-PU9wdjE6V8CrGqD6aqmSYHMhsVPKtkws_aNZHenk/s400/20181123_1010.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Light, Tuesday.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Eventually, the winds faltered and backed a little bit to the south so we decided to do some motor-sailing just to try to maintain a reasonable angle south.<br />
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Good morning.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Pos 28:23.7n. 63:29.0w</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">We
had a slow day yesterday with more motoring than we would have liked.
We were getting a bit concerned about fuel capacity. We called Ken on
the satphone to discuss. He thought we'd have a decent sw wind once we
hit 29n. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">As soon as we hit 29n, we got the wind we expected and
we sailed all night after that. We got headed off a bit and were able
to do only 140-144 degrees so we have crossed east of the rhumb line a
bit. At 0400, we hit some good squalls that brought a nice westerly
component and we were able to go 180 with really fast speeds for a
while. We're going to want to be east of rhumb anyway when we hit the
trade winds around 22n later in the week.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Wind is such that we are able to continue sailing at 145-ish. With every hour we're sailing, fuel becomes less of a concern.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Winds
are generally light (although I'm pretty sideways at this moment).
We're sailing as high as we can and will eventually switch back to motor
sailing as the wind backs more. Seas very flat. beautiful sunrise. Air
is 80-ish (87 inside the boat)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">All is well. Boat is still performing like the beast she is.</span></span></blockquote>
<br />
At about 1300 on Tuesday, after evaluating the latest weather update email and becoming sad, we decided to stop the engine again and sail as high as we could. I did a spacewalk to adjust the jib clewboard for the light air. We expected winds to back a little bit to the south or maybe east of south later and then we'll evaluate if we want to put in a tack. It felt great to be sailing again - even if it was only 4kts. Linda took a nap down below and I sat in the cockpit enjoyed the beautiful sky and water.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ0onn12NLDTkTt0hPVPMDn1pe6bUPVDVj-751VjmUVvjo6InAIUzzgrzIDaBwWUOEs176VNBJyWHApIGQPohi1pl0GuAZXtToTciQJWMmFzRLWpD-BmLnqm3TWq4Sxe0G7g8lZ4ySzpA/s1600/20181127_1196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ0onn12NLDTkTt0hPVPMDn1pe6bUPVDVj-751VjmUVvjo6InAIUzzgrzIDaBwWUOEs176VNBJyWHApIGQPohi1pl0GuAZXtToTciQJWMmFzRLWpD-BmLnqm3TWq4Sxe0G7g8lZ4ySzpA/s400/20181127_1196.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Every morning and evening provided a different flavor of a reminder of why we do this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
We sailed nicely again until about 1900 when the wind just got around in front of us too much and it wasn't worth being off to the east anymore. At this point we picked a waypoint on 24 north latitude and decided to just make a beeline for it with the engine focusing on the "just get to latitude 24N" part of the forecast. We calculated it would be approximately 40 to 45 hours of motoring. And we are pretty confident we had about 65 hours of capacity at the moment. <i>This</i> was the part we actually <i>planned</i> on motoring over.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4sxUkFOjVmWob2dg9hJpgSUwMgV6N8D9sc0oASOYzg1cdTAeC8y8jIxPrsi3EX-rMe6dv4mjfp6ePNIyGbi9vjO8FMiP5CH-6Dpa4L0c6l7NYNi4ApNFhX-l1bFW_h7UQGT42tHfNEg/s1600/20181121_131043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="778" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4sxUkFOjVmWob2dg9hJpgSUwMgV6N8D9sc0oASOYzg1cdTAeC8y8jIxPrsi3EX-rMe6dv4mjfp6ePNIyGbi9vjO8FMiP5CH-6Dpa4L0c6l7NYNi4ApNFhX-l1bFW_h7UQGT42tHfNEg/s400/20181121_131043.jpg" width="193" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the indicators that would rule our lives for the next week.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
According to Ken's latest email, 24N is where we should expect to see some Easterly component winds with the winds backing more and more to the east the further south we go. At about 2300, I relieved Linda from her watch and I'm sitting in the cockpit under a moonlit sky listening to the engine whir along at 1900 RPM, looking at our speed over ground in the mid to high fives and a COG of 162 degrees. Status quo for a while. And for a change the sound of the diesel didn't cause me anxiety because I know we have enough fuel now since those easterlies will kick in at 24N. At least they should...<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Fishing</h3>
Linda was determined to catch a fish along the
way. We bought three lures in Hamilton, Bermuda and I rigged the
smallest one on the handline and let it out. As soon as I sat down, we
had a hit and as I started reeling it in, we could see that it was a
Mahi. As I was getting
ready to lift him into the cockpit, the swivel on the new lure failed
and away he went. Two lures left... Over the rest of the passage, we
tried both other lures - sometimes at the same time and with a teaser line. Only one of them
was effective as we got a hit with another small Mahi. This time, he
shook the hook out himself during one of his jumps. Thus no fresh Mahi for this passage.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkho_yvqWukMtZY0ngIhswJVwTdhozyoXha9_GnFdEBXP3qmTI7wi_Q_C0D9KTplgL5L45L_6x8R2ugTmxDNxPgul38-EN0liARwroqIuDB3vekjDZ-vEhgKtcas9Vz9sQtQK9Vkg-XEM/s1600/20181123_0996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkho_yvqWukMtZY0ngIhswJVwTdhozyoXha9_GnFdEBXP3qmTI7wi_Q_C0D9KTplgL5L45L_6x8R2ugTmxDNxPgul38-EN0liARwroqIuDB3vekjDZ-vEhgKtcas9Vz9sQtQK9Vkg-XEM/s400/20181123_0996.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda deploying a trolling lure on the handline (yoyo).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Wednesday 21-Nov: Morning Day 4 </h3>
Linda finished up the overnight watch and I came up about 0700 to yet another beautiful sunrise. Winds picked up last night to the mid teens we were motoring straight into them which slowed us down considerably. We considered falling off and sailing a little bit but decided to just keep plowing forward on our straight line to 24N. At this point we had run the motor exactly 30 hours total since filling the tank. The boat got a nice power washing the prior night in a strong but short rainstorm. <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Good morning.<br /><br />0845. Pos26:30.6n. 62:17.7w<br /><br />Winds are 9-12 due south now and a little oncoming chop is developing. We're doing low 5s now.<br /><br />Plan is still to make it to 24n at about the Antigua longitude and hopefully sail from there as the wind develops an easterly component.<br /><br />We feel good about fuel now but will certainly switch to motor sailing if and when the wind gets off our nose.<br /><br />In fishing news, I put one of our new lures on the hand line and before I could sit down, we had a mahi on. As I got him near the boat, the swivel on the brand new lure failed. Linda is determined to catch a fish, so she has both remaining lures out - one on the hand line and the other on a pole. I think she's just slowing the boat down for nothing.<br /><br />We and the boat are well. We are about 130 nautical miles behind our estimate between all the dead air and slow motoring. Hopefully we will have a fast finish starting late tomorrow.</span></span></blockquote>
At around noon, we started seeing some possibly encouraging signs that the wind is backing and getting a little bit of an easterly component. Will anticipated the update from Ken within the hour to confirm our next move and hoping the wind backs as predicted. And the sooner the better!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISFgQTSiiWrTb0oOKsnl0ZE1bZCnSQo-T5yEu1J5B6D3Hr2QuAEFJN5HGJyTilCEU97Fj6CJs5Ohbt1VAA09_rl-wYfk-yheiJFSU3pxE-TS_yjZp5tfA2-c_Fk1juNLCrWJwa6UjW4o/s1600/20181123_1021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISFgQTSiiWrTb0oOKsnl0ZE1bZCnSQo-T5yEu1J5B6D3Hr2QuAEFJN5HGJyTilCEU97Fj6CJs5Ohbt1VAA09_rl-wYfk-yheiJFSU3pxE-TS_yjZp5tfA2-c_Fk1juNLCrWJwa6UjW4o/s400/20181123_1021.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lot of hours on the Autopilot on this passage.</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
This was to be the first of many more frustrating times where the wind just didn't follow instructions.<br />
<br />
As Linda was coming off her afternoon watch and I was going on mine we decided to open up the fuel tank and have a look at exactly how much fuel was in it. Fuel gauges on boats are just about useless especially when the boat is rolling around in a seaway. The best fuel gauge is the engine hour meter, a calculator and intimate knowledge of your engine's burn rate at various RPMs. (We track and graph our burn rate each time we fill the tank with diesel.) To our pleasant surprise, the tank was at about 60%. While we had it open, we decided to pour in our 5.3gal Jerry jug of additional diesel.<br />
<br />
At this point, there are 130 nautical miles left get to our waypoint at 24 North. Our present speed and pessimistic calculation showed we would need about 26 hours of motoring. Then, figuring a pessimistic burn rate of 1.2 gallons per hour and we should need about 31 gallons. <i>We're going to make it! To 24N anyway...</i><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5-vJheXs0phZlpVlGDLQAthIFFpSd0tPfIqtat1rVlLVYeVpOAFunKAW5sVXEIc3oUeVHb5FPDWcxqxLV2F-sLb-cB9yktZ7kIYvYYdi3IHoWg7rU72pc2mowxADQsN9vvqbs5Psk4I/s1600/20181121_151402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5-vJheXs0phZlpVlGDLQAthIFFpSd0tPfIqtat1rVlLVYeVpOAFunKAW5sVXEIc3oUeVHb5FPDWcxqxLV2F-sLb-cB9yktZ7kIYvYYdi3IHoWg7rU72pc2mowxADQsN9vvqbs5Psk4I/s400/20181121_151402.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The access port opened on the fuel tank for measuring (and filling). We used a measuring tape to assess the amount of diesel in the tank which is way more accurate than the fuel gauge.</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
I remained fixated on the wind dial as it's still stubbornly on the nose. Occasionally, I am seeing signs that it's going into the eastern quadrant a little bit, but then it doesn't... <i>Really </i>looking forward to see the Dial at 11 or 10 instead of midnight or 1. Linda says that the vertical wind arrow on the chartplotter is like an extended middle finger. (We're <i>north-up </i>people.) <br />
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<h3>
Thursday 22-Nov: Day 5 (Thanksgiving) </h3>
I woke up to yet another disappointing wind direction. The wind is stubbornly not backing yet to the southeast and continues to be on our nose. We are still 38 miles north of 24N and we continue to strain to see a favorable trending, but to no avail. We manually assess our fuel by opening up the tank again in case we need to motor even further south to catch some wind. But we realize that it may be time to start slowly beating our way south under sail which will put us further behind when we are supposed to catch those easterlies. At this point in the passage, we are a good 36 hours behind where we thought we would be by now and we still have a long way to go!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpI08apS-CvaltfE-69YVwMU8Fe7zbbi_azV7QEs9HqC0QZfARPu89iwzMLDlCPKMVTiieIGobwr9KHccpJZ0PRIWUdp_t7fc7yJS0xU5o35AVDJ3_N6SX814YNpxZwddeAz6cNBu4rwk/s1600/20181123_0959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpI08apS-CvaltfE-69YVwMU8Fe7zbbi_azV7QEs9HqC0QZfARPu89iwzMLDlCPKMVTiieIGobwr9KHccpJZ0PRIWUdp_t7fc7yJS0xU5o35AVDJ3_N6SX814YNpxZwddeAz6cNBu4rwk/s400/20181123_0959.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanksgiving Sunrise</td></tr>
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As I lay down to try to take a nap after my watch in the port side bunk, I thought nothing would make me happier than to be thrown out of bed by a nicely healing boat! I thought of attaching the lee cloth, but then thought <i>why bother?</i><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">0720. Pos 24:33n 5 61:34.2w<br /><br />Happy Thanksgiving <br /><br />We motored all night. Winds were light so we made good speed. A few times the wind teased us by backing a bit to maybe 170, but overall still pretty much due south or very slightly east of south.<br /><br />Still hoping wind fills in from a more favorable direction when we reach 24n around noon. We opened the tank yesterday at 1700 to do an accurate measurement of remaining fuel. At that time we had 45 gal remaining which for us is about 40hrs. We also dumped in our 5.3gal jug at that time. We're hoping to only need it for another 7hrs or so until much later when we pull into antigua.<br /><br />Update... linda just reported a good trend in the wind. We might switch to motorsailing now!<br /><br />We're fine. Tired, but fine. Very flat calm seas. I keep dreaming I'm still at the dock in Bermuda <br /><br />And linda is still fishing.</span></span></span></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbhhQ90KfwzX5Dk7zXhkTC5zFEPal5nqKqDYi1sBUHDKytj7AA6cG08KShjE8z8FPgervVxm07vJSA_lmsSpWUShQ9HcY8mGLl94b2LdN0Il2ZWccaW1cdmP25wJ7AKWDktEpgc2LZ60k/s1600/20181123_0968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbhhQ90KfwzX5Dk7zXhkTC5zFEPal5nqKqDYi1sBUHDKytj7AA6cG08KShjE8z8FPgervVxm07vJSA_lmsSpWUShQ9HcY8mGLl94b2LdN0Il2ZWccaW1cdmP25wJ7AKWDktEpgc2LZ60k/s400/20181123_0968.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still optimistic about landing a mahi!</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
When we got the latest weather update, the news wasn't great (again). The elusive backing to east was going to happen a little later in the day and it was going to be very light wind. So it sounds like we will be motoring throughout the rest of the day not stopping at 2 p.m. like we planned. On top of that, there were going to be a couple of dead spells still to the south of us that would require a little bit of motoring. Diesel anxiety is starting to set in again as 24N was no longer when we would meet up with the easterlies.<br />
<br />
We considered several options and just decided to turn the engine off and sail as high as we could on a port tack for a minute while we collected our thoughts. We noticed that the course over ground projection line landed right on the British Virgin Islands and we thought <i>well there's an option</i>. Linda called Ken on the sat phone (cha ching!) had a little chat with him and we decided that we would still try to make as much southerly advance is we could today and put off any decision on diverting to another destination until later. Ken thought that we should be able to sail pretty well overnight tonight.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYkgfQfu3oKnUy86n7qvbXmCR8tM87IwUPYSVNr4DVJResUhhelJFW_xXc0vxsUd39NE0JjS9e8QseefGGgcoWcsA7dAI8penGuOLZFZB3rfTg6BEO7m0o0dRIqIJLwI5JUFsAr5-Kv38/s1600/20181121_135741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYkgfQfu3oKnUy86n7qvbXmCR8tM87IwUPYSVNr4DVJResUhhelJFW_xXc0vxsUd39NE0JjS9e8QseefGGgcoWcsA7dAI8penGuOLZFZB3rfTg6BEO7m0o0dRIqIJLwI5JUFsAr5-Kv38/s400/20181121_135741.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanksgiving sunset at the start of a great night of slow but smooth sailing.</td></tr>
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The great sailing overnight that was predicted came true. It was actually one of the most wonderful overnight sails we ever had in nice winds of 10 to 12 kts close hauled and flat seas under an incredibly bright moon. We set the autopilot in Windvane mode to have it follow the wind around to the east as it (hopefully) backed. Our track traced out a gentle arc as wind continued to back through the night. For the moment, the wind was actually following instructions and we enjoyed the serenity.<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Friday 23 Nov: Day 6 </h3>
In the morning, the air was light again and we assess again about if and when and how long and what rpm we would run the engine again so we decided to take another direct measurement from the tank with our sophisticated measuring tape. Now, we had about 32% of the tank or about 24 gallons remaining. We were wishing we had about <i>double</i> that.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Current pos. <br />22 49.160 N 61 36.882 W<br /><br />Were able to stop the engine Th afternoon... those winds we were optimistic about Th a.m. did not materialize thus motored more than expected (again). <br /><br />Have been sailing close haul since Th afternoon averaging almost 5kts in 6-10kt SE winds. (Bob is channeling Lance with lots of sail tweaks.) <br />More slowly ~3kts starting as couple hours ago. Course generally 185. Very flat seas, long low swells from SE. Seas very calm and beautiful... not physically stressful at all... quite relaxing (except for knowing our motoring options are dwindling). Had planned on no more need for motoring once we hit 24N but has not been the case. Also learned yesterday that we have to get through another dead spot that is developing later today. <br /><br /><br />ETA looking like Monday a.m. (1.5 days later than planned). Keeping option of diverting to St Maarten or VI if winds do not fill in from the east enough. <br />continue to troll for mahi or wahoo... no luck yet. <br />:-) </span></span></blockquote>
We sent our emails home and to Ken with our status and even though the wind was light, we decided to sit tight and sail very slowly, preserving diesel, until we heard back. We were determined to make this a no-diesel day. We want to be careful about when we use the remaining fuel that we have.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzokwflXVDu8LkxoHW4o5-DVfT13_IgWQP0LyxI3VA88k3ymq55Lrq7gyxu9SDj5Daj-kdFwnZQqkcPsyA9VHLX9xuQR7LWuMz5SqLW73UM3M_6uheJHdLS7HhDGR5r0ObiZW0DFlVYw/s1600/20181123_0945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzokwflXVDu8LkxoHW4o5-DVfT13_IgWQP0LyxI3VA88k3ymq55Lrq7gyxu9SDj5Daj-kdFwnZQqkcPsyA9VHLX9xuQR7LWuMz5SqLW73UM3M_6uheJHdLS7HhDGR5r0ObiZW0DFlVYw/s320/20181123_0945.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reading conditions (quite rare on off shore passages).</td></tr>
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<br />
The weather forecast for today sounded promising. We expected the wind would back more to the east and in fact maybe even go slightly north of east for a short time this afternoon. We were really looking forward to getting some good boat speed and putting some of our east back in. However, just like many other times in this trip the wind was just relentlessly south and never quite backed as much as predicted. We continued to lose ground to the west and we were now a few miles west of the longitude for the Antigua approach (not where we wanted to be). Like the prior night, the winds were expected to increase overnight thus we held some optimism.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">We just received an encouraging weather update. Winds will continue to be light (but good for sailing 4-6 kts; and periods faster) as the direction improves with more easterlies. We likely will not have to use engine/precious diesel anymore with the exception on briefly Saturday evening.<br /><br />Thus although we are delayed, and would prefer more speed, it is actually quite relaxing with the very modest swells of crystal blue water, warm sunny skies, moonlite/bright nights. I'm even reading a book today while lounging in the cockpit. <br /><br />And we are confident in being able to make Antigua, and not diverting to St Maarten or Virgins.<br /><br />Linda (and Bob)<br /><br />PS. But still no fish!!!! Please send fishing luck my way through the ethers :-) :-)</span></span></blockquote>
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Just as we were getting discouraged about how much we were getting headed off to the west the predicted lift seemed to come at first about 10 degrees and an hour later we were lifted almost 30 degrees! It was a little late, but it showed up and it was awesome - we were thrilled! By this point in the passage, we considered 5kts a <i>really fast</i> boat speed!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGJc84Wokjrm9Yoz-oXMkCuYKw97UXDmz8HGwqjBMYjMaZuradBIj0SkGxJe3MwMoRyXehTd2LsEuNXz_IAsRqqJtN6Miv6LszAdaSdOgSLDKPKVpKGsoukwzdfxUoOUJXn1wEHfnV3I/s1600/20181127_1202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGJc84Wokjrm9Yoz-oXMkCuYKw97UXDmz8HGwqjBMYjMaZuradBIj0SkGxJe3MwMoRyXehTd2LsEuNXz_IAsRqqJtN6Miv6LszAdaSdOgSLDKPKVpKGsoukwzdfxUoOUJXn1wEHfnV3I/s400/20181127_1202.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passage burritos!</td></tr>
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<br />
I came back on watch at about 2300 and Linda was still doing a nice angle like 160-ish and we had already gained about 10nm of east. Within about a half an hour the winds started to build and next thing you know we had our hands full with 15kts close hauled sailing! It was almost time to reef the main! Linda came back up helped make some tweaks and in about a half an hour the wind dropped back down to around 9kts. Unfortunately it also seems the the whatever this little disturbance was eroded some of the lift that we were getting. <br />
<br />
We got so used to things being so calm and easy we actually committed the mortal sin of having some port lights open to get some ventilation down below... and we got a good reminder why you really shouldn't do that when we jumped off of a wave and I heard a big <i>splash </i>down below. No harm done, but we did get a good splash on the port side settee.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOq1WgLjiSsegNqc_UZO2BLdXJ9mY8CDR7w-TEfwkfF9NYWEvRpfAVwsQ8OHGM3mtyCgSnWJ_iFNKTYKrPL8nih_YmkhYnChgUOqRNXilW8yhW5FPPEe9VbKNqvA-WUA7X6UfQXtJEXfg/s1600/20181124_004948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="778" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOq1WgLjiSsegNqc_UZO2BLdXJ9mY8CDR7w-TEfwkfF9NYWEvRpfAVwsQ8OHGM3mtyCgSnWJ_iFNKTYKrPL8nih_YmkhYnChgUOqRNXilW8yhW5FPPEe9VbKNqvA-WUA7X6UfQXtJEXfg/s640/20181124_004948.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleaning up the salt water from the wave that came splashing in the open port hole. </td></tr>
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Saturday 24 Nov: Day 6</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
I woke up to nice but light sailing conditions with light winds and fairly flats seas. We weren't going very fast but we were still making a good angle south towards Antigua. We were also very encouraged see the we are now under 250 nautical miles away from our destination. That almost feels like a day-sail now! Although slower than planned, we should be in Antigua Monday! (Not)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">24nov 0730<br /><br />21:04.2N. 61:30.2W<br /><br />Good morning. Im sure the question on everyone's mind is "how many times has someone got hit in the crotch by a flying fish?" The answer is "only once so far"<br /><br />Yesterday, we were expecting winds to finally back to the east in the afternoon. That didn't happen until 1700 so we were getting a bit discouraged and wondering if it was ever going to happen. When it did, we got a great lift and were able to reclaim some east under sail.<br /><br />Yesterday was a zero diesel day.<br /><br />Overnight, winds built and we again had a pretty fast night. We were in high 6s low 7s and at a great angle.<br /><br />As predicted, the wind has veered back to sse and is light this morning. Sea is pretty flat but a tiny bit of chop is stealing speed from us. We are really slow right now and doing a course over ground of about 190 (so giving back some of our hard won east).<br /><br />We expect a dead spot today and so will probably motor on low revs for a bit. We will use that time to get some of our east back. <br /><br />270 nautical miles to go! We are at Antigua's longitude now, but we are sliding slowly west due to the wind direction. We won't change a thing until we hear from ken with today's outlook. For now just sailing slowly as high as we can.<br /><br />We've been using the autopilot in windvane mode. Last time we tried that, it worked horribly, but that was before all the firmware updates. It's working beautifully now. <br /><br />I've been ordered to go back to sleep as soon as I send this.</span></span></blockquote>
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<h3>
Saturday Night - ugh...</h3>
I started my watch about 1800 on Saturday night. We had a pretty good day making decent progress under sail and putting some east in the bank. Winds were light and expected to veer a little bit around on our nose overnight to SSE. We now had 200nm left to go (in a straight line). <br />
<br />
We were not approaching 20N (and had expected to be sailing nicely on those easterly trade winds well before now) when winds started to get very light and we noticed a lot of patches of dark clouds through the moonlite. Eventually, we were becalmed and we decided to motor on slow revs to make any forward progress and maintain steerage (vs just bobbing in the still waters). In the moonlight, the water looked like glass. More fuel anxiety ensued. And looking at the chart plotter, seeing how far away we were from any land, makes one feel quite vulnerable.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ERxwmP21ywpuwxB8hKhQGVsPN76B1DqO1uP0PNqXsmGcPseTM59v6xlP9Tzt-vQUmFev-CcjIqX8R5TAmm-ONgWyPwRhFZ4iRZ5edMOEzQGZInejaWn1kNWv25zYzhfso1LsZi5ANeo/s1600/20181127_1176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ERxwmP21ywpuwxB8hKhQGVsPN76B1DqO1uP0PNqXsmGcPseTM59v6xlP9Tzt-vQUmFev-CcjIqX8R5TAmm-ONgWyPwRhFZ4iRZ5edMOEzQGZInejaWn1kNWv25zYzhfso1LsZi5ANeo/s400/20181127_1176.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All dressed up but no where to go!</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
As a dark mound in the sky approached, Linda called me up from my rest to prepare for a potential squall. Sure enough, the winds would go from 1 to 20kts in 30 seconds requiring quick reefing and careful steerage in the now pitch black conditions. And torrential rains accompanied these winds making it quite challenging to stay oriented. Both of us were very tired by this point rarely having more than a couple hours sleep at a time for a week now. I was definitely having an <i>Are we there yet?</i> moment.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUy3UsH1Q30izDVg_XoSmKN9XtNk7gnhE2K6-LJNfCvqXhcvnEG25CcnsjaLtOUtxKq2Lfsj7DyeUqtwAYAgUyMArbH0njJdmniJID6USpNfUNgw1Z04VCCgxPEhv_r_BrdH0GqGkfTo/s1600/20181123_054513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUy3UsH1Q30izDVg_XoSmKN9XtNk7gnhE2K6-LJNfCvqXhcvnEG25CcnsjaLtOUtxKq2Lfsj7DyeUqtwAYAgUyMArbH0njJdmniJID6USpNfUNgw1Z04VCCgxPEhv_r_BrdH0GqGkfTo/s400/20181123_054513.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exhausted and a little worried about our limited options in making good southward progress.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h4>
Reflecting the next day on what happened last night...</h4>
After the third squad rolled over us, it left us with a very southwest wind (wrong direction!). We had to tack to the southeast. This southwest wind up against the prevailing swell from the east, made the sea state absolutely miserable. We were both exhausted, and it was impossible to sleep and now we were frustratingly loosing some ground.<br />
<br />
Every passage has a moment of despair, and this was it for both of us. This wind shift was not expected (not to this degree anyway) and we were now sailing way off course and making virtually zero progress toward our destination and just generally feeling very discouraged and vulnerable. We were very aware that we could not outrun bad weather approaching should that be in the cards. My kingdom for some diesel! On top of this, we had gotten a high data usage alert earlier from the satellite provider (well in to the 4 digit of dollars). This just demoralized us more as we try to be smart about such things.<br />
<br />
We spent most of the next day consoling each other as we drifted further and further east with virtually no southerly progress toward our goal. For the first time in many days I took a Stugeron because the motion was nasty. That would have helped me sleep if it wasn't for the constant loud banging into waves every minute or so. <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Good morning. We had a bit of a rough night last night. We expected winds to veer to sse overnight, but they actually veered further to ssw. This happened right after a period of dead calm intermixed with squalls with high winds and heavy rain. We were forced to tack to the east until this morning when we could see signs that the wind would back to the east again. It seems to be very gradually doing that (good). The sea state was awful last night when the wind went to the south west quadrant. We're pretty exhausted today. Still possible to land antigua tomorrow night if this wind ever gets more from the east. Backup is that we're pointing right at st Maarten now while sailing as high as possible. <br /><br />Pos 19:30.6N 61:19.2W<br /><br />Im becoming a fan of airplanes </span></span></blockquote>
<br />
At daybreak (Monday), the wind was still relentlessly southwest and we both felt defeated and exhausted. Finally, at about 0700, I noticed the first inkling of the wind backing east of south - just a little bit. Soon, we were able to tack southwest again. As we did, the sea state improved drastically and things felt better in a hurry. We spent to the rest of the day sailing as high as we could and our projected course over ground line was hitting somewhere between St Maarten and Barbuda. Sailing to St. Maarten was now plan B again.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiM1sT6UZz0IcUHHjy-tk5ltcn8YkHMwu9Iy6sz28nA9qmQa09RiTOYrSgBm42zQylUbmBHTg29PmRFTECR2AxeAE6MsnIQPxuuIpXSvf8OqRCYpx2SPJmANGS2wWyL8D6SP6-s1VPTgE/s1600/20181125_172114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiM1sT6UZz0IcUHHjy-tk5ltcn8YkHMwu9Iy6sz28nA9qmQa09RiTOYrSgBm42zQylUbmBHTg29PmRFTECR2AxeAE6MsnIQPxuuIpXSvf8OqRCYpx2SPJmANGS2wWyL8D6SP6-s1VPTgE/s400/20181125_172114.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So close, and yet we just can't point where we need to. Those last 200nm were hard fought.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Monday's weather update predicted the wind was going to back all the way to east southeast in the evening but south of latitude 19N. We were still about 10 miles north of that latitude so we weren't seeing it yet. We were <i>really </i>hoping it would happen.<br />
<br />
At one point, we decided to do some motor-sailing to both charge the batteries and make some more direct progress to 19N. We fired up the engine and... uh oh... it sputtered and coughed a bit. "Something's not right", said the skipper. I was ready to shut it down, when it finally smoothed out. We must have gulped a tiny bit of air at some point. This is <i>exactly </i>what we don't want to have happen as we're pulling into a harbor, potentially at night!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJDgBeF2CUoLzvSptO72ygbQvOdzLt3BsBFGRIZEHweGvfZ4PHXOFnXrav-pidczsZRto79mYcF37itZCZxKygpixPKzge_lA75gveRvw8Z3qUxsaCQxBF6gXbcnDzaHUDWrrCLKxJ2I/s1600/20181128_224443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="778" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJDgBeF2CUoLzvSptO72ygbQvOdzLt3BsBFGRIZEHweGvfZ4PHXOFnXrav-pidczsZRto79mYcF37itZCZxKygpixPKzge_lA75gveRvw8Z3qUxsaCQxBF6gXbcnDzaHUDWrrCLKxJ2I/s640/20181128_224443.jpg" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tracking position, fuel measurements, wind direction on paper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Monday morning at daybreak, I'm sure this is a total shock, but the winds never backed to where we expected them too. We are about 35 nautical miles north of Barbuda (about 80 miles from English Harbor, Antigua) and at our current angle we were not going to make it east of the island. I got a good night's sleep while Linda manned the helm working to stay as east as possible. Knowing that land should be in sight soon, our spirits are lifted. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUx9CDRbjCeWKeNXfEA7e-1nhfV66Ja14FcY6na7MhkkIXBgIZacIK6q21TzmFArEDQkjuS32S4T9ULhHUJpjo9vvHyr-x6f2m72PTMlJcIpVpfzYo6vK87C6sRvWpnSwa_9amyahhYs/s1600/20181127_1149-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUx9CDRbjCeWKeNXfEA7e-1nhfV66Ja14FcY6na7MhkkIXBgIZacIK6q21TzmFArEDQkjuS32S4T9ULhHUJpjo9vvHyr-x6f2m72PTMlJcIpVpfzYo6vK87C6sRvWpnSwa_9amyahhYs/s400/20181127_1149-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another epic sunrise on Monday. First light and sunrise is always a treasure, especially on difficult passages.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Around mid day, it's obvious that we're not going to see this predicted easterly turn, so we looked at our options. I considered again just bailing out and going to St. Maarten. We knew for sure we did not want to use the engine for any propulsion after our hard start the previous night. The solar panels are working very well at this angle and the batteries are being topped up nicely.<br />
<br />
I was not convinced we would ever be able to make a
better angle than 200 (on a starboard tack) so I drew a "safety line" on the chart from the
southeast tip of Antigua (a lee shore) at about 205 degrees to determine how far east we would need to be
to make it. It wasn't pretty.<br />
<br />
We were determined to still make Antigua. We decided to put in a long tack to the east and see if the wind would back later in the day. The latest weather update had the wind backing (really, this time for sure) to east and even ENE in the late afternoon and evening (after a dead spell). We ended up putting in about 20 miles of east by the time we were done.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Monday 0530<br />Pos 18:19.3N 61:44.6W<br /><br />Good morning. <br />And keeping with the theme of this passage the wind never backed as far to the east as it was supposed to. Wind just doesn't follow directions sometimes or ever on this trip it seems. <br /><br />We had an easy gentle night last night.<br /><br />We're currently about 35 nautical miles north of Barbuda and about 50 nautical miles north of Antigua. The only issue is that we're a little bit too far west. We will sit tight for a bit before we either do a tack or do some motor sailing to the east. Other option is to come down the west side of the island and pull into jolly harbor on the west instead of English harbor on the south. <br /><br />Still have 23gal of diesel in our pocket too. Will definitely do some motoring anyway to charge batteries. We've learned that sailing due south is not so efficient with our solar panels. They are shadowed by the sails for the best part of the day. We finally turned the fridge right off yesterday and used up just a few perishables in there. Warm soda from now on.<br /><br />The good news is we will be in sight of land today and we're already hearing a little bit of VHF traffic. Expect to arrive overnight tonight unless we have to do a big long stupid tack which will make it perhaps this time tomorrow. We would prefer to arrive daylight anyway. Linda did a long watch last night and I got plenty of sleep. She will probably sleep for a good spell today I hope and then we'll figure out how we're going to get were we need to go.<br /><br />next message will hopefully be from cheap Wi-Fi and Antigua.<br /><br />We're doing 3 to 5 kts sailing as high as possible into light air. After the last 5 days, this feels like the new cruising speed of Argon. I haven't seen us do 7kts since the night we left Bermuda.</span></span></blockquote>
At about 1500, the backing was indeed happening, yipee!!! And we did what we hope is the <i>last </i>tack to south for final approach to Antigua. Now we were just waiting for the winds to build as predicted (and you know how winds always do what they're predicted to do).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZ6NERgg-CynHywlaUeRBReLbP7JEwngffL2ZBoHS6IiX68sF4b87V_WsSN52gVVk4C1bR-BLnEHvwyubsyTitQ9JkbvmDG_IfLKuXVyY-poQVXhq4JeZOoFYMrZDFcpbgEjHsMCHAfE/s1600/20181127_1158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZ6NERgg-CynHywlaUeRBReLbP7JEwngffL2ZBoHS6IiX68sF4b87V_WsSN52gVVk4C1bR-BLnEHvwyubsyTitQ9JkbvmDG_IfLKuXVyY-poQVXhq4JeZOoFYMrZDFcpbgEjHsMCHAfE/s400/20181127_1158.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Things are tuning our way!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
This time, the wind followed directions perfectly! (That tempestuous debutante showed up to her party!) We sailed an easy beam reach all night in 9-12kts of wind on flat seas. It was almost possible to forget the frustrations of the last many days as the lights of Barbuda were visible (land ho!). We were both too excited to sleep much.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjIzIsWIJ8c9yy1o0j86blTdQH-Fpr-LoYkjAY3-Ybllmtyv3KrT8FSTO9VxIb1ek_IcSS6jCtvLgXFJjDvZC3iOCfOK1CmyWifKzRq4Wh9pqnsnTehWirbzMbEb7KZLvVbWrbpYxTsGY/s1600/20181123_180236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjIzIsWIJ8c9yy1o0j86blTdQH-Fpr-LoYkjAY3-Ybllmtyv3KrT8FSTO9VxIb1ek_IcSS6jCtvLgXFJjDvZC3iOCfOK1CmyWifKzRq4Wh9pqnsnTehWirbzMbEb7KZLvVbWrbpYxTsGY/s400/20181123_180236.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smiles tonight. We'll be there in the morning!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
As the lights of Antigua lit up the west, we saw a few other AIS targets (first time in many days) behind us (and passing us). We knew those guys had been through the same stuff as us and were now having the same great reach to the finish line.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRcYSh967TSdaUlLrxBkNJCKVuhEFuzljyc_h8AcDsJ10Ne2M-YYiP2rR81ambcT8VjQW5M9N28tmQO45yco1U7z7cw0_7ecB3REcPFbEzHYWBYrBVfQvZyn8mAf8Akv_sKj_K9ygmIo/s1600/20181127_1195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRcYSh967TSdaUlLrxBkNJCKVuhEFuzljyc_h8AcDsJ10Ne2M-YYiP2rR81ambcT8VjQW5M9N28tmQO45yco1U7z7cw0_7ecB3REcPFbEzHYWBYrBVfQvZyn8mAf8Akv_sKj_K9ygmIo/s400/20181127_1195.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The home stretch??</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
At sunrise Tuesday morning, we were just making the turn (now downwind if you can believe that) around the southern coast of Antigua. As we approached English Harbor, we went into standard operating procedure about dropping sails and motoring in but not until we were almost in the harbor to minimize our fuel usage. In our minds, we were hoping the engine wouldn't slurp some air and stall out at the worst possible time (but neither of us mentioned this worry to the other). Just in case, we kept a screwdriver handy to open the air bleed valve on the fuel pump!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhon1j0LWCd_J1GLUKCHfB6ngjaWaU_NEjY-h5zhgruvY6qzj61qPFZSEZT9jWpTM0ljA_m_xUGGGM9m2APCGrEVNDOOZXM9FGa9kVXSxAuM_r-xQ5ptq-IMsdr4UDw9wACsaD0JlJJKXk/s1600/20181127_1137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhon1j0LWCd_J1GLUKCHfB6ngjaWaU_NEjY-h5zhgruvY6qzj61qPFZSEZT9jWpTM0ljA_m_xUGGGM9m2APCGrEVNDOOZXM9FGa9kVXSxAuM_r-xQ5ptq-IMsdr4UDw9wACsaD0JlJJKXk/s400/20181127_1137.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final approach to Antigua English Harbor on Tuesday morning!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioEaThvcNYjczc96viiqlrz-yJM1DQ5ciEo0BkfSB0P0t90U9QRPOM_BYOcUcVRAkXS7NAnvMlPx5E-7bBwJc967kwF343P-A6TnBY5km6-2YlhT7W__8iYJKHp5l3GbEXeNcjFEzH5Gs/s1600/20181127_1131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioEaThvcNYjczc96viiqlrz-yJM1DQ5ciEo0BkfSB0P0t90U9QRPOM_BYOcUcVRAkXS7NAnvMlPx5E-7bBwJc967kwF343P-A6TnBY5km6-2YlhT7W__8iYJKHp5l3GbEXeNcjFEzH5Gs/s400/20181127_1131.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We're going to make it!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The engine started and ran fine, and within a few minutes we were dropping the hook in English Harbor!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_m-a6wwCZiiCx65_mFeA_DYRGTuXbXgiRbFMbvyJoOxJahzy3ErxHsnJEQITPsrXQj0-cWWFD_Xucirw96BLOpwbBQG5tw-_N4SBAIn7MOacwTe4vtduGB0rdw3gqR7y3DW-CmQ7t-w/s1600/20181127_083736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_m-a6wwCZiiCx65_mFeA_DYRGTuXbXgiRbFMbvyJoOxJahzy3ErxHsnJEQITPsrXQj0-cWWFD_Xucirw96BLOpwbBQG5tw-_N4SBAIn7MOacwTe4vtduGB0rdw3gqR7y3DW-CmQ7t-w/s400/20181127_083736.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was a long time coming, but we made it here after 9 days at sea.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We were tired, and excited, but there was no time to chill out. We had work to do: Commission the dinghy, get cleared into Customs, put the sailbag back on, get to town and buy a local Sim for our travel phone. I fired up the bullet and looked for some wifi... nuthin'. To send our final shore email, I just temporarily turned roaming on in my main phone. Later, we purchased a Flow Sim card and put it in the cheap travel phone. So far, so good.<br />
<br />
<br />
And now, it was all worth it. As I walk around Nelson's Dockyard, I don't miss my lovely Newport home at all. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjf7HfhxlyvSdTlGuZIPGteijwI5KMiBLszXqbEATFhAMCCW9S3X51J-KEm4h3aABeXkYfmSqSIUu8X-2b7RKe4NuYjzjyrRcVZwPTEvF70xFBmujk0-4yrnbw3NSAvWrLNDeYVZ-J64/s1600/Screenshot_20181127-113817_Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjf7HfhxlyvSdTlGuZIPGteijwI5KMiBLszXqbEATFhAMCCW9S3X51J-KEm4h3aABeXkYfmSqSIUu8X-2b7RKe4NuYjzjyrRcVZwPTEvF70xFBmujk0-4yrnbw3NSAvWrLNDeYVZ-J64/s640/Screenshot_20181127-113817_Chrome.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The track of the whole passage. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Lessons Learned</h3>
Clearly, the big mistake here was fuel planning and not factoring in enough margin for error with the weather forecast. We had enough fuel for the forecast, but we know that weather predictions are just estimates, especially several days out. And we did not factor in enough fuel for in case much more motoring would be needed (which it was). On a passage this long with as much expected motoring as we had, we should have had about three or four Jerry Jugs of extra fuel (not just one). This would have made all the difference. Because we spent so much of the passage going so slowly, we were <i>too late</i> getting to latitudes where the wind was better. So the problem just cascaded: The slower we went, the harder it would be to go fast later.<br />
<br />
We were also very lucky that there were no impending nasty systems that we needed to outrun. We couldn't outrun anything on this passage. Luckily, although it was a slow passage, the conditions were very safe and benign most of the time. Even the nasty Saturday night we had probably felt a lot worse than it really was.<br />
<br />
We didn't download nearly enough podcasts for the passage. I had to listen to the same <a href="http://thebuglepodcast.com/" target="_blank">Bugle</a> about 4765 times! <br />
<br />
One thing we did right was continually strategizing, tracking and carefully using the fuel we had. And finishing the trip with easily enough to motor safely in to a harbor. <br />
<br />
For now, we're enjoying Antigua which is one of our favorite places. We're working with <a href="https://antiguarigging.com/" target="_blank">Stan Pearson of Antigua Rigging </a>on affecting final repairs to our rig. In the meantime, we are happy to be stuck in Antigua!Bob and Linda aboard s/v Argonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05329354595798027057noreply@blogger.com4