Crossing the Gulf Steam at Night

(4/10/18) Our alarms went off about 11:15 p.m.  I was on the settee when Steve came up from the stateroom.  We brewed some coffee, checked the engines and called out to Gordon & Eta on Didi Mau on the radio.   Gordon pulled up his anchor and we followed.  The wind and waves were calm as we set off into the dark.  We kept the interior lights off as to make it easier to see out.  The radar came in handy as we could see large ships long before we got close to them.  A cruise ship passed in front of us with strings of colored lights dancing from one end to the other.  We didn’t see any other boats our size–only container ships.  Again, we shared riddles and jokes with Didi Mau.  (I may have to write a book of riddles for crossing the Gulf Stream.  I am sure it will be a best seller.)

We were expecting some turbulence in the waters as we got to the Gulf Stream–but we got smooth waters and low winds.  It actually got calmer.  It is our habit to try to be the first to make out a sighting of land when we cross the ocean.  Before we could see land  we began to hear the U.S. Coast Guard start making reports over the VHF which is music to the ears after being away.

The Fort Pierce marina welcomed us back to the United States about 11:30 where they were glad to help us refuel and glad to give us a spot on their transient dock for the night.  The Harbour Cove Bar & Grill at the marina served us a good old Florida meal for lunch.

It was good to be back. Next stop, Customs.

Joy