Author name: jrand

Just a quick note to let you know that we are moving again and also, back on pocketmail.

We left Ontario on Tuesday, Nov 9th and had an excellent trip to Beaufort SC. The trees were still in full colour through the southern states. We arrived at the boat on Thursday to find her in great shape. After loading on all the supplies obtained in Ontario and on the way down, we fell into our berth for a good nights sleep. The next day, we moved to boat down to a friend’s dock. Brian & Kathy Marsh ( from Tundra ) arrived a few days later. Then the party began!

Our car was driven on to Titusville FL by John & Eleanor Coulthard ( Kathy Marsh’s sister and brother-in-law ). They departed Beaufort on Sunday 14th and we untied our lines and slipped away on Monday.

The weather was cool but sunny and we had a great cruise through Georgia and into Florida. Currently, we are anchored by the Bridge of Lions in St Augustine FL and will likely stay here for the weekend. The waterway becomes very busy on the weekends with all the local boats out enjoying the water. So, we prefer to stay put.

The Juno address will still work and we will check it now and then. But, this one will get to us quicker.

Love to you all,

Heather & Murray aboard Windswept IV

Hello everyone,

Here we are, back on Juno. As the title suggests, the pocketmail has hit the drink and now the crabs and dolphins of Factory Creek can get ” on- line “. So, until we order another of those little gizmos, we will use the Juno account. Any mail that was sent in the last week was not likely received.

The last message that I wrote was after Irene’s passage. We scurried around that Monday morning and plowed a furrow out of Pecan Grove. As the wind was blowing strongly from the northwest, the water levels in that area of the Neuse were expected to drop and stay down for the next several days. We had been aground most of the way into the marina and needed to get out before the water dropped further. Frank & Sherri, from Random Run, drove us to the grocery for last minute items. The deal was also finalized for my kayak and it was stowed on deck with much muttering from the captain. Then, heading south again with the boat performing well under sail and power.

The anchorage that night was Spooner Creek, south of Beaufort NC. A lovely spot and we will definitely stay there again. The next morning the anchor was raised before 7 AM and also before the sunrise. It was beautiful, shining through the bridges behind us. Yes, we are heading more west than south right now! There were several bridges that day and they all had time restrictions. One opening was missed by 10 minutes, and we had to wait another 50 for the next opening. Due to bridge waits and the distance traveled, we didn’t get to the Wrightsville anchorage until dark. Not too much fun.

The next few days were un-eventful, up early, travel hard and anchor just at dusk. The miles were clicking off. It sure looks as though we can make Beaufort SC in time.

If fact, we arrived there about 5 days before the party. We had time to spend one night on Rick Butler’s dock in Brickyard Creek. What great people and wonderful hosts! One day was not enough, but I am sure we will see them again.

We anchored in Factory Creek at Beaufort on Sat Oct 23rd. The dingy was launched and motor attached. Then, laundry and shower stuff gathered and, of course, the pocketmail device to send some e-mail. When Meindert and Gayle returned, we went ashore to catch up on news etc. The e-mail was sent and received and the unit Ohhed and Awed over. The clean laundry was loaded in the dingy, along with the shower bags which contained glasses, shampoo, soap, a book, and the pocketmail device. As we backed from the dock, a line snagged the bag and it hit the water. I grabbed it quickly from the water’s surface. Everything is still inside…. the book is completely dry. But…. where’s the pocketmail??? Did I leave it inside? I hope!!! It was not to be – the pocketmail was gone. The only thing that was lost from the bag. Murray’s glasses were more expensive, so if I must chose one or the other, the choice is obvious.

The ” turkey’s” started to arrive on Tuesday. Gayle Wolff made her outstanding Frogmore Stew and the table was laden with good things to eat. Gayle had been catching crab from her dock and we clean and prepared crab dishes in many different ways. Brian and Kathy, from Tundra, arrived Wed and filled us all in on the status of their boat repairs. As you remember, Tundra fell off her stands during hurricane Floyd. It was a great “turkey” reunion and the ” gobbling” ( both talking and eating ) went on for hours.

Brian & Kathy were able to drive us to our car in Virginia and the four of us talked for many miles. It had been months and there was a lot of news to catch up. Tundra still needs much work before she is ready to touch the water again. But, they are optimistic that the Caribbean may still be the destination for the winter.

Murray and I arrived back in London Friday night and will probably be here for 10 days. We are at Linda’s again – 519-433-3097 . Steve’s grad takes place on Friday and the Yacht Club banquet is Sat. Then, on the road again!! Back to the boat and see if we can get the car to Florida.

Remember to write to Juno until further notice. And take care all. Keep warm.

Heather & Murray Rand
aboard Windswept IV
Ham Radio VE3 ZUA

Hello everyone,

Well, we got a great start, making 60 or 70 mile days until last Monday. Then, 8 miles out of our anchorage, the forward gear failed. Over the side I went to check for a bag or crab trap on the prop. Although it was very difficult to see, I managed to feel that the prop and shaft were clear. Murray observed the functioning or rather lack of functioning of the transmission. A variety of anchorages and towing possibilities were discussed. As reverse still worked, we backed the 8 miles to Oriental NC and anchored. Murray removed the tranny with the assistance of a ham friend who lives nearby and who supplied a wheel puller. The next day, another ham drove us to the UPS depot and arranged for shipping back to the repair yard in Annapolis. Now we wait for the return.

Other than that, all is well aboard. It was nice to get moving again. We hear another hurricane is brewing, but hope it will not come this way.

Take care all, Heather & Murray aboard Windswept IV

Hello everyone,

Well, as usual our timing is impeccable! We have been back here at the boat for about a week and the work was going very well. Some of the parts had arrived and some required picking up, but they were going back in. Then……. the TV starts mentioning a big wind called Floyd. So, we took the canvas off, tied everything down, filled water tanks, got food supplies and prepared as best we could. According to local weather gurus, the eye was expected to pass very close to us. Luckily, that didn’t happen.

It did rain for 2 days and the winds yesterday peaked at approx 50 knots, with gust above that. Boats at anchor dragged somewhat, but were undamaged. We spent the day in a room here at the marina as I was not sure about staying aboard during the highest winds. Flooding has been the major problem in the area with thousands without drinking water. The ground had already been saturated by the previous hurricane Dennis.

Now there is Gert!!! But, it looks as though it will not arrive in the US. So, should not be a problem. We will certainly keep an eye on it though.

Our visit to Ontario was wonderful. We spent a lot of time with both of our moms, a weekend with Jeremy and several sails and visits with Steve. Our good friend Linda Crossley once again allowed us to stay in ” the dorm”. Time passed very quickly and we did not manage to see everyone, of course. Purchasing a car made it much easier to get around and allowed us to take a meandering trip back to the boat. We visited John & Kristin ( Shivaree ) in Guelph, then Marcel & Karen ( Southern Cross ) in Oakville and from there went to Astabula, OH for the long weekend. It had been two years since we had seen any of the AYC crew and we spent many hours catching up.

Once we launch the boat, the plan is to head south quickly. Steve graduates from college on Nov 5th and it is very important for us to be there for that. We will leave the car here, and boogie down the ICW. Then find somewhere to leave the boat for a couple of weeks, catch a bus back to York River and drive to Ontario.

Cuba is our destination this year for the cold months. Steve may join us for the Christmas season in Florida and we will cross after that. But, as usual, plans are very fluid.

Well, I think that covers the news that’s fit to print. The rest we will leave for an evening in the cockpit with a glass of wine or two.

Take care all and enjoy this gorgeous fall weather.

Heather
Heather & Murray Rand
aboard Windswept IV
Ham Radio VE3 ZUA

Hi everyone,

We have spoken to several of you already, so this may all be old news. But, for the rest, I thought I should report on our whereabouts and ” fun” things that happened since the last e-mail.

When I last wrote, we were preparing to haul out at York River Yacht Haven. That went very well, with the yard working in their usual efficient manner. But, the temperature had started to climb. The day we hauled, it hit 104 F ! But, we started on our list of jobs. The floor of the boat was removed and sanded lightly in preparation for re-varnishing. It was so hot that the varnish dried on the brush! So, leave that job for a cool morning. Meanwhile, we walk around on the stringers and try not to fall in the bilge. It is amazing how much difference that 3/4 inch makes to this short person reaching cupboards, or even to climb into bed.

One of the mechanics examined our max-prop and said that it had excessive wear and that also the cutlass bearing was gone. So, we removed those,sent the prop away and ordered a new bearing. Then the prop shaft had a lot of wear. It needs to come out – but, to remove it we must remove the tool cabinet in the aft cabin and also the fuel tank ( which is full ).Where to put the tools, as all cushions are covered with things that normally live on the floor or in the aft cabin?! Right about now, the frig decides to quit and all the frozen stuff is thawing QUICKLY as it is 105! Sander, from Satori, makes a quick service call, determines the problem and gets ice for the interim. Then, as we complete taking the shaft out, Murray spots a leak from the transmission. Now that must come out as well and be sent for repair. By this point, I also have sprung a leak – just near the eyeballs!!

Eventually we have parts scattered all over the US – the prop in Washington state, the radio in Utah, the fishing reel in Deltaville VA, the transmission in Annapolis MD, mainsail and shaft in Glouchester VA.

The weather eventually cooled off and rained for a few days. Murray and Sander got the frig working and we varnished the floor and re-installed it. Things seemed much brighter when we could sit down. One morning Gerry & Roberta from Meriah II took us with them to visit Yorktown and we very much enjoyed that.Yorktown is a national park and the site where the American forces led by George Washington had a decisive victory over the British in 1770’s. Besides the historical sites, we also saw several deer grazing on the battlefields.

After many phone calls, I arranged a rental car with drop-off in London, Ont for one week from our haul out date. Of course, we don’t pay much attention to dates, and I managed to get us all set to pick up the car one day early!! So, we had a day to relax – actually we found much to fill the time.

On July 15th, we closed the hatch, loaded the car and headed out. That night, we spent with Fred & Cindy Meyer in Cayahoga Falls OH. In the morning we visited their 40 ft Beneteau ” Brass Tacks” in Vermillion OH. A Canadian- flagged, Abbott 22 went motoring down the river. It was Downwind from Pt Bruce. Mike and Karen Down were out on a vacation and were very surprised to see us there. Eventually, we had to pull ourselves away from that lovely spot and continue our drive into London.

Linda Crossley has offered us a home again this year and we stayed there for a week. Murray borrowed a car from a friend from TimberJack and we were off again. Now we are in Orillia with my mom for about two weeks, with a swing to Ottawa to see Jeremy before returning to London. Murray has a first aid course there in August for his captain’s license. Then we will stay with his mom for a while and catch up on the Rand side of the family.

Plans are to stay in Ontario until late August or so, until it cools off some in the Chesapeake. The last couple of weeks we will probably be at Linda’s. It is just as hard to get us by phone as when we are sailing. The e-mail will still work though.

If you want to try to catch us at a phone, here are some numbers.

Linda Crossley 519-433-3097 Kaye Gilchrist ( my mom ) 705-689-8633 Dorothy Rand ( Murray’s mom ) 519-424-9542

I hope everyone is having a great summer! It sure is much cooler here in Ontario, only 30 C max. Enjoy !

Heather
Heather & Murray Rand
aboard Windswept IV
Ham Radio VE3 ZUA

Hello everyone,

I know it is not quite July yet but, while Murray works on re-plumbing the head, I thought I would stay out of the way and bring you all up to date on ” travels with Windswept IV”.

In company with Shivaree ( John & Kristin ), we explored Charleston for a few days. The Around Alone boats were still at the marina, so we chatted to some skippers and spent some time examining gear on these vessels. Some were very high tech looking but at least two looked like old IOR boats and more resembled the boats that we were used to seeing. The tent, where souvenirs of the race were sold, was closing up soon and the bargains were flying. Even us cheap cruisers couldn’t resist! I bought a jacket for Murray and then returned the next day and bought three more- for myself, Jeremy and Steve.

We had hoped to sail outside to Beaufort, NC but the weather report for the next few days was not favourable with strong NE winds ( guess which way we wanted to go – NE ! ). So, we girded our loins and headed into the ICW and through our first opening bridge in 7 months. The weekend is not a good time on the ICW with many boats and waterskiers and personal watercraft and fisherman etc etc. So, we hid in a creek near McClellanville. On Sunday, we dighyed to town for lunch in a converted general store. What a quaint little town and a great lunch. There was a place nearby that cultivates butterflies and had some beautiful specimens on the walls. I became entranced and chatted away to the owner. When I finally caught up with the rest, we went looking for fresh shrimp. On Sunday, in the South. But we did find someone who sold us a few shrimp for our dinner.

Up early the next morning, we caught a favourable current and traveled 76 miles to Barefoot Landing, Myrtle Beach. I thought I caught a glimse of the rare Ivory-billed Woodpecker in the forests on the edge of the Waccamaw River. Murray didn’t see it in the binoculars, so it is not confirmed. But, the colour and size and everything was right, so I got very excited. Another early morning, and we made 80 miles to Wrightsville Beach the next day. Then, with a good wind, we sailed outside to Beaufort NC. Downwind, but better than motoring. In fact, the boats in the ICW were held up due to firing on the range in Camp Lejeune area. Murray tried his hand at fishing again and caught 2 Spanish mackerel – one 30 inches, one 36 inches! The freezer is jammed!

Beaufort was crowded as usual, but such a nice place to visit that we stayed 4 days. Shivaree had some major head problems there and spent all day buried in the bowels of the boat. The museum loaned us the car again and we re-stocked on the necessities of life – bread and beer! Murray kids me that a small shopping of bread and milk is a standard $150! Actually he is pretty close. When you get in a great grocery store, you just have to buy stuff because who knows when you will see it again!

Eventually, we moved on to make quick stops in Oriental and Bellhaven. Howard & B Goodwin, from Goodwinds, came down from their new home in Washington, NC to have a brief visit and drive us around Bellhaven. It was wonderful to see them again.

Shivaree convinced us that we had to visit Elizabeth City, NC even if we didn’t travel through the Dismal Swamp. So, that was our next stop. It was rainy and windy and cool. Sweatshirts were dug out and even sweatpants showed up briefly. Elizabeth City is lovely. There are free docks and a wine and cheese party if more than 5 boats arrive. Each woman is given a rose from the garden. And the town is very close and everyone extremely friendly.

Well, we did go through the Dismal Swamp and it is very lovely, but…. We hit submerged objects 3 times and once the object hit our prop. No damage done, but I think that was the first and last trip through. There was several free docks, the lock tenders were very friendly, and the scenery and bird-life were beautiful, so if you don’t draw 6 feet, it is a great trip. The canal itself was dug by hand in the 1700’s as a commercial shipping route. The development of the shorter Virginia Cut route and the single Lock at Great Bridge spelled the demise of the Dismal Swamp Canal. Since that time, the locks have been reduced to two only and it has become mostly a pleasure-boat canal.

Hampton, VA was as welcoming as usual and Shivaree left us here as they have many miles to travel back to Lake Huron. The two boats had traveled together since the end of March and had many adventures along the way. We will miss their company. We tried to console ourselves by visiting West Marine and spending $$$.

Now, we are anchored off at York River Yacht Haven and preparing for haul out next week. Depending on arrangements, we may leave the boat here and travel to Ontario. Meanwhile, we wash and wax and shine and paint. All the things that Ontario sailors do in the cold spring. But, it is so much easier to wax in the warm. But, not too warm, I hope!!

Hope everyone remains well and is enjoying the lovely summer weather. All the best to you.

Heather
Heather & Murray Rand
aboard Windswept IV
Ham Radio VE3 ZUA

Hello everyone,

Well, we enjoyed some lovely times in the Abaco Islands – catching up with old friends, making new ones, walking the beaches and finding lovely shells, swimming and even some shopping. John & Kristen ( aboard Shivaree ) sailed with us and each adventure was more fun as we could share it with friends.

Karen & Kelly Hansen , from Sarnia and friends of Brian & Kathy on Tundra, had rented a lovely little spot on one of the Parrot Cays near Hope Town. As part of their luggage, they brought down Murray’s motor mounts to replace the one that was broken. It was great to see them, both the Hansen’s and the motor mounts.

Murray spent many hours huddled over the engine and buried in the starboard locker, muttering to himself and me, as we attempted to replace the mounts. We were at anchor in Marsh Harbour and used the boom again to raise the engine so that the mounts could be accessed. But, the wake of passing boats made life difficult and fingers in grave danger. It took most of the day, but the mounts were finally installed. Next, to align the prop shaft. He had trouble getting that as perfect as he wanted and we still had some vibration under power.

After a quick visit to Man-of-War to pick up our repaired jib sail ( ouch, $$$$ ), we anchored in Crossing Bay, Great Abaco. I had bought some steaks and romaine to celebrate our 32nd anniversary with a special dinner. But, on the way, we caught the largest mutton snapper that we ever seen! It weighed 12 lbs! The biggest we had caught before was an eight pounder. So, I stuck the steaks back in the freezer, invited John and Kristen for a fish dinner. It was a lovely evening with only three boats in our anchorage.

Just a couple of days prior to our anniversary was the second anniversary of our move aboard. So, we re-evaluated our decision and decided that we were still ” having fun” and would like to continue this lifestyle.

The next couple of days were spend looking for shells on and in the water near Spoils Island. Murray is sure that the boat will sink from the weight of the shells aboard ! But, I cannot resist. He is just as bad as I am, in fact. He had found some of the most beautiful ones, especially while snorkeling.

As the anchorage was becoming rolly, we passed through the Whale Cut and headed for Green Turtle on May 21st. On the radio, we managed to contact friends on Jazzbrek ( Larry & Phyllis ). They were dog sitting at a house in White Sound and invited us to use a mooring there. With the winds predicted to hit 35+ knots, we took the mooring. Of course, the wind didn’t come, but we got to visit with Phyllis and Larry and to hear of their adventures in Cuba. Sounds like a good place to visit – maybe next year.???

We left White Sound on May 24th and anchored off of the town on New Plymouth. A little time spent snorkeling and the bottom of Windswept was clean again. When the stores opened in the morning, we made a quick dash ashore to top up the food aboard. Then we hauled anchor and sailed to Moraine Cay in preparation for an early exit out over the reef. But, the weather report was not favourable, so plans changed again. The anchorage was becoming much too rolly, so we sailed off again to Great Sale Cay and started to think of heading towards Florida instead of further north.

In the morning, the weather reports changed again and we had favourable conditions! So, the anchor was hauled and we sailed ( tacked ) towards Walkers Cay, 22 miles away. Dodging sand bars, we finally made the open ocean by 2:30 pm. Now, we are really underway – am I ready for this?? I did manage to make some meals ahead, but not as much as I had intended as things kept changing and we were heeling too much to go below and bake.

We sailed until dusk when the wind died a little. In fact that happened each night of the three that we sailed north. In the morning as the sun rose, so did the wind. Murray and I took turns sleeping. The moon was full during our passage and there was very little traffic in the area of the ocean that we passed through, so, although we could see almost as well as daytime, there was little to see. We had two visitation with dolphins. One group of about 50+ spent some time. But the spotted ones that came on the last day, stayed for 30 minutes or more. They played on the bow wave and rolled on their sides to look at these strange creatures watching them.

We ate very simple meals as I couldn’t spend long times below. But, we did eat and sleep. And enjoyed the passage very much.

Due to wind etc, we decided to head for Charleston, SC . Shivaree followed us and we entered in the dark at midnight on the third day. We had come 380 miles, only 156 with motor assistance.

Now we will enjoy the sights of Charleston and, if the weather co-operates, sail outside to Beaufort, NC ( approx 200 miles away ).

That all of the news to date. Keep well everyone.

Heather & Murray

Heather & Murray Rand
aboard Windswept IV
Ham Radio VE3 ZUA

Hello everyone,

I can’t believe that it is May ! Time has flown by this winter. By now things are quite green and warm where you are and flowers are popping up all over. Summer is just around the corner. And we still don’t know what we are going to do this summer! Oh well….

We spent several days around Royal Island and Spanish Wells. The fishing was very good and between the two boats, caught 3 mutton snappers of 8 – 10 lbs each. We ate well for many days. The reefs around Royal Island are very pretty and with the very calm weather conditions that we had, it was possible to dingy out onto the reefs and snorkel for a few hours. I was the last one still in the water when I spied a very large barracuda hovering nearby. I decided to join the rest in the dinghys. Just before that, I had hooked a very large barracuda on my line and, although he got away eventually, I was worried he may hold a grudge. On our way back to the anchorage, we had a close encounter with a water spout ( a tornado over water ). The three dinghys proceeded slowly, watching to see which way to run. Murray thought the funnel was going to hit land at the entrance to the anchorage and dissipate. He was right! It faded and re-tracted in front of our eyes. We were only a few boat lengths away.

Spanish Wells was a lot of fun as we met a couple of other boats and went out for dinner one night. Also, Murray’s friend Woody ( one of the local pilots ) visited us several times with offers of homemade jam and fresh tuna. Using his tips, we exited from Spanish Wells early one morning without the use of the pilots. We found our way between the reefs and made it out to deep water with no problems. The run north to Abaco and the Little Harbour inlet was 50+ miles. The wind varied from 10 kn to 30 kn to 15 kn. I liked the 15 better. We sailed through the cut, again between the reefs, and anchored in the Bight of Old Robinson to get shelter from the prevailing winds.

The next 3 days it blew like stink! But calmed down at night so that we could sleep! Strange weather. But, if it must blow, it’s nice that it’s calm at night.The second morning we arose early to the howling of the wind. As we looked off to the east, a huge funnel cloud formed and touched down behind us! Luckily, it was heading away from us. Two funnel clouds in one week is two too many! The rest of the day was spent reading, baking and relaxing.

It rained very hard one night and we collected 20 gals of rain water. Time to do the laundry. Laundry on board is done in buckets using a toilet plunger (new) to agitate. We squeeze out as much water as possible, rinse thoroughly in another bucket with vinegar to soften and remove soap. Then, squeeze again and hang them on a line strung between the shrouds and forestay. But, with the wind at 30+ knots, I had to sit “clothes pin watch” to make sure that nothing went overboard. But not too close, as the snapping ends were vicious. As each item dried, I dropped it below and filled the space with wet stuff. Eventually, all was clean, dry and sweet smelling.

Finally the wind blew itself out and we moved a very long ways ( 3 miles ) and anchored again at Lynyard Cay. Here, we fished, explored, snorkeled and dove for a couple of days and greatly enjoyed being off the boat again. The reef at Sandy Cay was worth a visit, but the current and waves made it a little uncomfortable. The anchors came up again and we moved a long ways ( about 10 miles ) to Tilloo Cay. About 9 pm that night, we saw a rocket that had been launched from Canaveral. From our position, we could see the separation of the stages and the final push through the atmosphere. What a sight! The next day, we moved on at high tide and anchored in White Sound off of Tahiti beach. More exploring, walking, visiting of other boats. During the calm afternoon, Murray and I cleaned the hull of the boat. It was sporting a growth of 2 inch long fuzz. Diving down under the hull and rubbing with a 3-M pad seemed to remove the worst of it. But we were exhausted! Every little while, one of us would suggest we quit, but we just kept working. It was 80-90% done by the time we stopped – just the keel left. It certainly made a difference the next time we sailed. But we still couldn’t catch that Shivaree – they are pretty quick!

Just before high tide, we hoisted the anchor, unrolled the sail and sailed off the anchorage towards Hope Town. More walking, exploring, shopping ( Not buying! ), and even a late lunch at Captain Jack’s. We anchored outside town and dinghyed in each day and saved the mooring fee. Also, it was cooler and less buggy outside. One evening. Murray used his 2 meter handheld radio to contact to local repeater ( 20 miles away ) and had a long chat with the a local ham. During the conversation, the ham was also talking to several stations in Cuba. These were unusual contacts that were aided by atmospheric conditions.

When the enjoyment of the sights of Hope Town were over-powered by the wakes of the frequent powerboats, we glided off the anchor again and moved closer to Marsh Harbour, anchoring at Matt Lowe Cay. It was peaceful and quiet there, but we must get to town for Mother’s Day phone calls tomorrow. A brief stop was made at Mermaid Reef to enjoy the sights of the protected area. It is a small reef but has a lot of colourful fish. A very active barracuda scared most of the tourists away.

Finally we anchored in Marsh Harbour. It only took us 10 days to travel about 20 miles. Phone calls were made along with the best type of dinner plans – reservations! Prime rib! The Jib Room was having their Sunday cook-out and we joined in. Great meal! After dinner, we managed to contact the rest of the family and had long conversations with both moms. I also had to call my boys so they could say ” Happy Mother’s Day”. During the night, a big thunderstorm blew in and several boats dragged anchor. Our anchor held and although we checked often, we still slept well.

The next few days were spent re-provisioning, re-fueling, filling water tanks, doing laundry etc. Of course, we still had time to visit with friends and catch up on their adventures.

By the end of this month we will point the bow towards the US. Probably leave from Walkers Cay and head straight to Charleston, SC or Beaufort, NC. If we get a good 3 or 4 day weather window. Until then, we will explore and enjoy these lovely islands. With secluded anchorages nearby, we will spend little time in the busy towns.

Enjoy your spring and I will write when I can.

Love to all,

Heather
Heather & Murray Rand
aboard Windswept IV
Ham Radio VE3 ZUA

Hello everyone,

Life is still good aboard Windswept IV. We have left George Town, finally. We headed north into the Exumas with Fred & Cindy Meyer aboard and spent several days exploring Lee Stocking Cay and the small cays in that vicinity. After leaving them in Barreterra, we meandered our way up the Exuma chain, snorkeling and fishing as we went. We spent a wonderful afternoon Ohing and Awing over the reefs at the Sea Aquarium in Exuma Park. Wow, is that worth a stop! No fishing is allowed and the fish sure know it. The groupers swim freely and don’t hide in the holes as is usual. Some of them were huge ( 20 lbs )! And the colours on the reef…. I could go on & on.

The wind was blowing SE 15+ knots – perfect time to cross over to Eleuthera. It was a great sail, but no fish. We made the 40 miles in 7 hours anchor to anchor. Due to the wind direction, we stayed out by Poison Point in Rock Sound. John & Kristen on Shivaree had caught both a grouper and a mutton snapper and invited us for dinner. In the morning both boats moved closer to town and blitzed the laundry and grocery store. Boy, this is a much better laundry – $2 per load but it actually fills in the usual time! And the grocery store is wonderful – shelves full of things we haven’t seen in months. We try not to go too crazy as it is still Bahamas prices.

The next day was a downwind slog for 40 miles. We tied the main out on one side and poled the jib on the other and flew. The only fish we managed to catch were barracuda. No fish dinner tonight. The entrance to Hatchet Bay was wild due to the wind direction and speed. My heart was in my mouth but Murray brought us through safely. Inside is a large bay with a grassy bottom and we had trouble getting our anchor set well. Some other members of George Town fleet were poised here to move up to Royal Island and then to the Abacos. Radios crackled with greetings as we shared stories.

Well, we plan to spend a few days here in Hatchet Bay. Perhaps rent a car and tour Harbour Island. Then we will move to Royal Island and await a window to go to the Abacos. This involves a passage of 50+ miles on the ocean. So, we will wait until conditions are right.

We have been asked to give a list of things that worked and things that didn’t and also a ” wish we had ” list. Here goes.

Things that worked:

1. upgrade boat and cruise local waters to find glitches. No bargains to be had below the border. Best to get to know new equipment.

2. batteries – we have four 6v golf carts ones and they are in the majority on boats. We have the golf carts on the house bank and a group 27 for start battery. This has been great.

3. charging these – we use solar, wind and a 100 amp alternator. It has worked for us! Solar – 100 to 150 watt array ( we use Siemens ). Wind – Air Marine is quite quiet and produces well. Energy out must = energy in or nothing runs!

4.power – if need 120v AC suggest an inverter/charger combo ie Heart with integrated controller and alternator regulator plus battery monitor system ie Link 2000R. Being able to constantly see what power is coming in or going out has been a big plus.

5. refrig – have installed 12v DC water cooled cold plate refrig. It works OK but the usual insulation in ice boxes is AWFUL. Suggest upgrade.

6. communications – ham/SSB unit is indispensable. Boat-to-boat, weather info, contacts in Ontario,e-mail. If not in budget, would recommend at least a receiver. Strongly suggest getting ham ticket if time allows. E-mail – has been wonderful. We are cheap so Juno is the right price for us. Others work as well. Learn to use it before you leave. Phone cards – make sure you have both Bell and AT&T cards before you leave. Hard to get card without address. Arrange to be charged to credit card. In Bahamas, the Batelco card is the cheapest way to phone ( $1.25 per min to Canada).

7. computer – again indispensable. For navigation ( using the Captain program and digital charts ), downloading weather-fax ( connected to ham radio ), e-mail ( communications with home and friends has been incredible ), word processing and games.

8. fuel – we added extra tankage so that when making passages we have 60 gallons in tankage and 12 on deck. A Baha filter is a MUST. Filter ALL fuel into the tank. We jerry can all fuel so that there is time to run it through the filter which removes dirt and water. We have seen many boats having fuel cleaned or tanks removed.

9. water – we only have 40 gals in tanks with 12 gals on deck. Not a problem in ICW or Florida. In Bahamas we must conserve. Be prepared to collect rain water, but buy RO water when available. Most communities sell RO and cistern or brackish water is available to use for showers etc. A watermaker would be nice but they break down frequently and total costs for water last year was $50! Hard to justify. Estimate $ 1+ per gal to make your own water. They use a lot of energy and power systems must be upgraded.

10. waste – offshore we dump directly overboard. Must have Y-valves to make system legal in US. Also be prepared to carry garbage for several weeks. Separate garbage – food scraps overboard, paper burnt on shore , pop and beer cans crushed, others washed.

11. sun protection – biminis are important! Full enclosures can be useful in ICW but hot down south. Make bimini and awnings as wide as possible.

12. propane – readily available

13. electronics – only have speed and depth and speed does’t always work. Loran is never on and GPS never off. Radar ( 24 mile Furuno ) has been worth it – to monitor ships that pass in night. Also useful for navigation.

14. anchoring – go heavy. We use 35 lb CQR with 75 ft 3/8 chain and 200 ft 5/8 rode as main anchor. A 35 lb Bruce with 25 ft 3/8 chain and 200 9/16 rode is our second anchor. Plus a large Danforth with chain and rode. Spend time choosing site and setting the anchor and then you will sleep well. Develop a method of communicating during the anchoring process – yelling does’t work. Use hand signals or walkie-talkies. Buy ” Skipper Bob’s Guide to Anchoring in the ICW ” $15.

15. money – pre-pay credit cards so that cash advances can be taken out with no fee. Cannot access bank accounts in islands.

16. tupperware and zip lock bags – can’t have enough of either.

17. maximize storage aboard and provision heavily before crossing to islands. We cover floor with beer and pop cases.

18. a cart – to carry laundry, gas cans, groceries etc. The inexpensive West Marine unit failed the first year and we up-graded to the $100 model. It is great and still working.

19. jugs – for water and fuel. May have to carry for several blocks. Make covers for all jugs or they will deteriorate in the sun in one year.

20. Caframo fans – available in Canada and the best on market for boats. Quiet and low power usage. Both 12v and 120 AC.

Things that don’t work:

1. diode blocks – we don’t have them, but many do. And they fail. Recommend using master switches to select battery banks for charging etc.

2. mail – don’t expect to get it. Difficult to arrange and will usually have to wait for it. We have been lucky that our son Jeremy checks bills and pays them for us. Also e-mails us important info.

3. 800 numbers – seldom work in Bahamas and may not work in US. If do telephone banking, get a non-toll-free number before you leave. They may accept collect calls – CIBC does.

4. Taking care of business – not easy! Phones not great, faxes very expensive. Don’t leave loose ends.

5. foods – don’t expect diet to change much. Stock the boat according to usual habits. If the book says ” buy corned beef” but you hate it, don’t buy it! But do fill up with cans before you leave home – car is available and you know where to shop. US foods are no bargain now.

6. most metal parts – all corrode in salt air. Require constant cleaning and lubrication.

7. screens – standard screens will not keep no-seeums out of boat. They will make life miserable. Either use special no-seeum screen or a product called Screenproof available at Ace Hardware. Sprays on screens and lasts for weeks. Hint – if wind dies, put in screens!

8. clothing – take less! Bathing suits, shorts and tee’s. But it’s cold in the ICW – need mitts and toques sometimes.

Wish we had:

separate shower stall boat with heavier carrying capabilities swim platform better self- steering unit ( current CPT unit has periods of gross stupidity followed by times of independent inspiration ) bigger hard bottom dinghy ( buy biggest you can afford and carry and 10+ hp motor)

That’s about it. Sorry this went on so very long. Hope it helps someone.

All to best to all,

Heather & Murray Rand
aboard Windswept IV
Ham Radio VE3 ZUA

Hi everyone,

It’s about time to leave George Town and move on up the chain. Depending on weather, of course, the plan is to head up the Exuma Islands stopping at the cays that we missed on the way down. We will cross to Eleuthera and Royal Island and then head up to the Abacos. Connections may be few and far between, so don’t expect to hear from us for a while.

Life here has been good – other than the cost of groceries. I can’t get used to paying $4 for a bag or pretzels or nacho chips! Canned good also are outrageous – $4.50 for a large can of orange juice, $ $1.80 for a can of peas or corn. We tried to bring as much as possible with us, but eventually the cupboards are bare. Flour is reasonable – $ 2.50 for 5 lbs. I have got sourdough starter in my frig and bake bread several times per week. Another cruiser made soda biscuits! I was going to get her recipe, but I think that’s a bit silly!

We have recently had settled weather and have ventured outside with the dinghy to snorkel and fish. A rather large shark cruised by us, so we decided to fish from the dinghy. Caught a grouper on the line – about 5 lbs. Murray cleaned it and then put the carcass on a hook and dropped it overboard. About an hour later, he heard the line zzing out and grabbed his reel. A major fight ensued with the fish trying to dive under the boat and Murray reeling him in. Eventually, he had about 3 feet of a nurse shark out of the water alongside. The shark was 5 or 6 ft long, but we didn’t really want to land it. Murray let out a little line and the shark broke free. Entertained the anchorage for a while.

We will fish again later today – we had to come back and make more lures after yesterday’s trip. Two lures lost and no fish. But some days are like that.

We have heard that spring is on the way up north. The ice went out of Port Stanley harbour a few days ago. Dave Tilley said it was ready for us to bring the boat back (. I DON’T THINK SO ! ) A contact this morning said the crocuses were up in Sarnia. So soon it should be warming up. Boat work will start – waxing, painting and all the rest of the preps. Have fun!

Well, not much news here. Life is pretty quiet.

I will write again when possible.

Keep well.

Heather
Heather & Murray Rand
aboard Windswept IV
Ham Radio VE3 ZUA