We, meaning all the boats in Maine, patiently wait for the fog to lift. It’s been a long wait this spring and summer. There have been longer intervals. Two years ago, the fog never lifted and we went home early. Nonetheless, dedicated cruisers such as ourselves deserve better. Weather forecasting is accurate to a fault. If it says fog then there will be fog. It deflates your bubble when the 7 day outlook is 7 days of fog.
Today I count as this year’s first day of summer. Of course, we woke to fog at Buck’s Harbor, but it was demonstrably warmer. Though our surroundings were obscured, the sky was bright. At 9 AM it became obvious that the sun would win out. Sea level clouds rolled in off the Reach and then dissipated as they climbed into the surrounding hills.
Boats began to stir. We dinghied to the marina to take our last showers for the next couple of days. New found friends were engaged for the final time this season and maybe forever. Boat dogs got their final walks before heading out.
Back on Carrie Rose, our silent departure ritual began. The dinghy is secured on the stern. I take a good look around the engine room. Fuel filters are checked for water and water filters are checked for debris. The engine’s fluids are checked as are electrical connections, batteries, switches, belts and cables. I make sure there is no oil or water in the bilge. Only then are the various electronic devices turned on and the route is reviewed.
Meanwhile, Charlotte puts everything in its proper place and I do mean everything. Experience has taught us, no matter how calm it may be, whatever is laying around will get flung across the cabin enroute. I will not bore you with the multitude of reasons for this, but it is inevitable. Finally, the engine is started.
Now 10 miles further northwest attached to a mooring in Tom Cod Cove, a blustery south wind pushes Carrie Rose’s bow from side to side. As the boat swings the wind intermittently blows into the port and starboard pilothouse doors. Despite the wind’s vigor, it is a cooling summer breeze. A breeze we deserve because why not have at least one first day of summer . . .
Belfast, ME
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