Cruise Reports 2026 List

The call went out two days before for all crew to assemble by 8:45 AM on the morning of the 29th. Some came early to get organized the night before, while others arrived early on the morning of the 29th. However, the late arrives showed little pity for those who arrived the night before and had to ride out a strong rain and thunder storm in a local eatery and bar.

With the crew assembled, we went through introductions, safety (including the importance of an inventory check) and the plan for the voyage. The crew then located and reviewed all inventory items and ran through various systems of the boat. After a quick break, we gathered the rest of the inventory items from shore and started the what at times can be the hard work of meal provisioning for the boat. However, the crew were all on the same page regarding food items, meals, etc. and the need for lots of water for what looked like a warm voyage.

After lunch, it was down to the work of planning our navigational routes - charting in True and changing to PSC (per ships compass) for navigating at the helm. This was a full crew activity logging each waypoint, light list number, reviewing LNM, and the cruising guide for information on our final destinations for each day. While the crew was busy at work, the skipper made the sacrifice and did the supply and grocery run.
Following a long day of planning and organizing, the crew broke around 5 PM for a well-earned dinner ashore. After dinner, we stopped at the local market as folks wanted to explore its many offerings and make last minute purchases.

Day 2 - July 30th
The day called for a mix of sun and clouds and winds out of the NNW to NW at 10 - 15 knots, which could make for a great sailing day. As the crew took advantage of the shower and restroom facilities at dock and then had breakfast, we discussed the day's plan. Then they completed the daily pre-departure check list, and reviewed our navigation for the day including total NM to travel and our ETA.

The skipper then went over some important items - rigging the preventer as the first part of the day was going to be down wind work, winch handling, and radio operations. We also took some time to practice how to check the draft below the water line using a lead line.

Just prior to our planned 10 AM departure, we reviewed the undocking plan, and how we would have to use a traveling spring/warping line to help the bow around into the 14 knot wind on our port side.

We motored out to G 7 in Langford Creek and practiced standing turns, for a few crew members, and then made our way to the LC mark. As we had great wind for a broad reach, we set the sails, making sure we were reefed at our first reefing point, and rigged the preventer for our run down the Chester River. Even with reefed main and headsail we were making over 7 knots STW and about 6 knots SOG. Along the way, we discussed Navigation Rules, Sail Trim, and talked about trouble shooting fresh water problems that may happen on a boat. We also reviewed possible causes for an engine shutting down while underway. The navigator took a two-point fix along the way to compare to our planned course.

As we approached the south end of the Chester River and started to head up into the wind, the cloud cover increased and we were started to see increased wave action that would be on our bow as we headed North to Swan Creek. Thus, the crew made the decision to furl the headsail and motor sail.
On our way north, we had a lot of choppy seas on the bow and consistent 12 - 15 knots of wind. So after about an hour, we dropped the mainsail and motored on through the choppy seas and into Swan Creek.
As we motored into Swan Creek, we hailed the marina on the radio to get our mooring ball number. As they were not very busy, they told us to pick up any available mooring ball.
We reviewed hand signals for communications between the bow and the helm, and our approach to the mooring ball.

Fortunately, the wind had dropped to about 10 knots so picking up the mooring ball on the first try was textbook perfect and professional. Following the end of day routine to get all gear re-stowed to the right place, and cleaning up the cockpit, etc., the crew relaxed prior to preparing the days delicious dinner. Later after dinner we ran the engine for an hour to charge the batteries.

Day 3 - July 31st
After a windy previous day, the weather system had passed and the day called for sunny skies, very warm temperatures (87 - 91 degrees), and light and variable winds (3 - 4 knots). Thus, a motoring day to our destination at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum was ahead of us for the whole day. For those up early, they experienced a gorgeous sunrise.

Following breakfast and the pre-departure check, the navigator for the day reviewed our course. Once we had the boat ready to go and knew our plan for the day, we practiced picking up a mooring ball a few more times and then headed out of Swan Creek. As we were going to be motoring for the day it was likely our heading for each course steered would match our planned course.

We motored along and continued our discussion of trouble shooting various boat system failures, and went through a number of scenarios. As we approached the channel entrance for the North side of the Kent Island Narrows drawbridge, everyone was very observant as it can be a tricky channel with uncharted shoaling. Thus, we were watching the paths of other large boats as they navigated the channel. Once through the tricky part of the channel, which was very busy for a Friday, we found ourselves maneuvering with many other boats awaiting the bridge opening. As the last class was unable to fuel the boat at the home port fuel dock, we decided to pull into the fuel dock north of the Kent Island Narrows bridge and took on 7 gallons of fuel.

Fortunately, just as we were leaving the fuel dock, the bridge started to open, so we were going to make the noon opening. We radioed to bridge to make them aware of our presence and that we were transiting from north to south. After letting the north bound vessels through the drawbridge, we fell in-line behind a large powerboat and motored through the bridge assuring we watched the lights that mark the center of the fixed bridge over I-50. Once through the bridge we continued following our course to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM). Along the way the navigator performed a two-point fix which matched our planned course, there was much celebration.

We motored along on a very warm day, and discussed weather (Rule of 15, sea breeze, land breeze, etc.) and the various distress calls on the VHF, along with how to handle a prop shaft getting wrapped by a line, running aground, and a steering failure. As we approached the CBMM, we radioed for our slip assignment. However, they were very busy, so we had to circle around the area to the west of the marina until we
could connect with the marina staff. After getting our assigned slip location at 4 PM, we slowly motored as we approached the slip and at the right time turned the bow away from our outmost slip piling and started to maneuver for an excellent docking by the crew stern first. After securing all lines and getting our shore power connected the crew found a much-cherished location after two days on the boat – the restrooms.

We then completed our end of the day routine of restowing all gear, cleaning up the cockpit and making sure the boat was shipshape. Then, it was off to explore the museum for 30 minutes, before they closed, and finding the shower and main restroom facilities. Folks freshened up and then it was off to dinner, ice cream, and a little exploration of downtown St Michaels.

Day 4 - August 1st
After an enjoyable evening in St Michaels, it was up early for a few of the crew and another great sunrise.
Following our normal morning routine of breakfast, getting the boat ready (pre-departure checklist) and a review of navigation it was time for us and Scholarship to say goodbye to St Michaels and the CBMM.

The weather for the day was sunny with a mix of sun and clouds in the afternoon, winds out of the south at
5 - 10 in the morning and 10 - 15 in the afternoon. However, our winds never got above 5 knots all
morning, so it was a motoring day out of the Miles River and up to the Kent Island Narrows drawbridge.
As we motored along following our course the navigator did a two-point fix and we discussed
various emergencies and procedures (fire, flooding, and structural failures).
Upon our approach to the bridge at Kent Narrows we once again reviewed radio protocol, and as we neared
the bridge we hailed them to let them know we were approaching and that we were a north bound sailing vessel. We were fortunate as we were within their five-minute window (bridge opens every 30 minutes on the hour and half hour), and they opened the bridge for us as we were the only tall vessel coming through. Once through the bridge and navigating the tricky channel on the north side of the bridge, the winds started to build to 10 - 15 knots and we were once again able to sail on a series of broad reaches, using the preventer, up the Chester River until we were approaching our turn into the Corsica River.

Along the way from Kent Island to the Corsica River we took the opportunity to review the questions that may appear on the knowledge check, from the AS Bareboat Cruising Made Easy book. When we reached our waypoint that marked the entrance to the Corsican River, we furled our head sail and dropped the main, and then headed into the river.

We discussed our hand signals for communication between the bow crew and the helm for anchoring, and as we passed R 2 we turned to starboard and rounded Town Point entering a great area that is protected from south winds. The depth where we anchored was 10’ and with consideration of our freeboard we set our anchor with a scope of 6 – 1, as the winds were predicted to be 15 - 20 during the night. However, the winds never developed and we only had the occasional gust over 10 knots at night, so we had lots of rode out for a good hold over night.

After anchoring at 4:15, we completed our end of day tasks, and relaxed as we took in the great scenery. It was then time for a wonderful pasta dinner with cheese cake for dessert. After dinner and dishes, we all gathered in the cockpit as one of the crew had brought their guitar and another a type of card game. Around 8:30 we started the engine to charge the batteries for an hour, and determined our two-hour anchor watch schedule. At 9:30 we shut down the engine and crew started to go below to retire for the night.
Another great cruising day.

Day 5 - August 2nd
Our last day on the water before returning to our home port. The skipper was up early and at 5:30 started the engine to charge the batteries as our house battery was a little low. The skipper ran engine for an hour as the crew continued to rest. The weather for the day was cloudy with a chance of rain, winds 10 - 15 out of the South and temperatures in the mid 80’s.

After breakfast and our morning checks, we gathered to discuss and demonstrate how to handle various standing rigging failures. Following our demonstrations, we then prepared to do a forked moor anchor to demonstrate how to set the second anchor and then how to retrieve both anchors when getting ready to depart. We weighed anchor at 10:00 and headed out following our course to the LC beacon. We then set our sails, moved to a beam reach and rigged the preventer for our broad reach run up Langford Creek to G 7.
Once at G7 around 11 AM we conducted a series of MOB drills and at noon headed into the pump out dock at the home marina. After docking and doing our pump out per our check list, we headed around to the fuel dock to top off the tank for the next class, and then over to our home slip.

We were docked and tied up at 1:30. This was a good time to use the facilities and have a quick lunch while also getting all personal possessions ready for leaving the boat on the last day. After a quick lunch break, the crew completed the last day check list, and then started the ASA 104 knowledge check. Following the completion of the knowledge check and a review, the log books were signed and certificates presented. Rain had started around 3 PM but spirits were high having successfully completed 104, and thus the rain was a minor nuisance as gear was removed from the boat and we said our goodbyes at 5:30 PM
Overall, a great voyage and adventure.

104 - Kent Island Circumnavigation - July 29 to August 2

Captain Rick Shearer

Cpt. David B. Gifford
Student Crew: Bree Ridsdel, Jamie Varner and Mitch Cartmell

Day 1 — 6/21/26
We met aboard our 32-foot Island Packet sloop, Scholarship, at approximately 0845. After
introductions we inspected the boat’s various features and systems. I led the crew through a
thorough an inspection and explanation of the various operating components of our boat,
including the thru-hulls and tankage, plumbing, electrical & mechanical systems, and the sails
and rigging. (We even had a full demonstration of the proper operation of the mechanical head.
Yes, students do pay to learn how to use a toilet.) We had a fulsome discussion of the proper
operation of these systems, including daily engine checks and safe operation of the propane
system. After lunch, the crew prepared the navigation plan for our voyage around the mid-
Chesapeake Bay area while I shopped for provisions. We planned to first visit St. Michaels, then
Annapolis, and lastly an anchorage somewhere off the Chester River. Our first day wrapped up
around 1730.

Day 2 — 6/22/26
We convened onboard Scholarship at about 0845. The diligent crew had already filled the water
tank and prepared Scholarship for our voyage. The wind was out of the south at 15 kts, gusting
20–25. (Naturally, since we planned to head south.) Before departing we headed to the fuel dock
to fill up and then went to Langford Bay where we practiced raising and reefing the mainsail. I
fully expected that we would need to have at least the first reef in for the day. We then departed
for St. Michaels against that strong south wind with waves 1–2 ft. It was hard going and we
could make no progress under sail alone, so we had to motor sail without a headsail and with one
reef in main. We dropped sail to thread through Kent Narrows where we had to hold station in a
strong current while awaiting the next bridge opening. Soon we swept through the drawbridge
and passed into Prospect Bay and then on to Eastern Bay. We motored to St. Michaels against
strong south wind and a threatening sky with a severe T-storm warning issued. We arrived at St.
Michaels at about 1800. Shortly after we docked at St. Michaels the dark sky opened up with a
drenching rain, thunder and bright flashes of lightening. Luckily, we waited this out in the
comfort of Foxy’s restaurant while dining on pleasant fare.

Day 3 — 6/23/26
We departed St. Michaels Marina at about 0900 with the wind building in from the north.
(Naturally, since we planned to head north to Annapolis.) We raised the main outside of the first
Miles River mark. Shortly after, I surprised the crew by shutting off the engine for an engine-
failure emergency drill. While drifting, we discussed possible causes and various solutions to
control the boat and to get the engine running again. Meanwhile the wind picked up so we
deployed the genoa along with the full main and enjoyed a welcome sail down Eastern Bay to
the Chesapeake.
As we approached the Chesapeake the north wind built and the rain moved in. After exiting
Eastern Bay we had a lumpy ride and could make little forward progress towards Annapolis
under sail and engine against the north wind and ebb tide. As we rolled slowly northward I
considered turning into the South River to anchor rather than continue struggling to Annapolis as
planned. But just north of Thomas Point Light (that iconic screw-pile lighthouse that graces so
much of Maryland’s publications) the wind diminished a bit, the rain yielded to the sun, and the
tidal current relaxed, all allowing us to proceed to Annapolis after all. There we took a mooring
just above the Spa Creek drawbridge at St. Mary’s. We dined heartily at the Boatyard and
returned to Scholarship at about 2200, for a good and deserved rest.
While coming up the Bay, we were passed by the brig Sultana, the ship Elissa, a lovely
traditional cutter, and other old vessels, all to be part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of
the signing of the Declaration of Independence. While the other vessels continued north, Elissa
arrived in Annapolis just before us.

Day 4 — 6/24/26
Today dawned clear and bright with a cool north wind at about 10 kts. (North, again from the
direction we intended to go. Hmmm. I’m seeing a pattern here.) We slipped our mooring in
time for the 0800 opening for Spa Creek bridge. Clearing the bridge we noticed Navigator (the
MD School’s Island Packet 40) at a mooring just north of the bridge. We came astern of her for a
gam. Navigator, coincidentally, was in A-town on her way from Little Creek, VA to Rock Hall
conducting a 104E class.
We set the main and genoa after clearing the Annapolis harbor channel and sailed to the Bay
Bridge. There we had to douse the genoa and sheet in the main to motor-sail under bridge due to
a large container ship passing through main channel. We reset the genoa on the north side of the
bridge and sailed slowly to Love Point on a dying wind. (We were passed by Navigator, which
left A-town after us but attained greater speed. I suspect that her larger engine explains this
astonishing feat.). Yielding to the diminishing wind we doused the genoa, sheeted in the main
and motor-sailed around Love Point into the Chester River, on around Eastern Neck and back
home at Lankford Bay Marina. We had intended to anchor in Grays Inn Creek (a lovely and quiet
spot off the Chester River) for the night, but due to a problem with our house battery bank we
instead went directly to LBM. There, Frank Mummert swapped in new batteries for #2. While
waiting, however, the entire crew elected to remain at LBM for the night due to the extreme heat,
the need for showers, and the temptation of a restaurant for dinner and coffee in the morning.
Ahh, creature comforts.

Day 5 — 6/25/26

This morning began very warmly with the promise of more heat. We met aboard at about 0845
for a discussion of various subjects not previously covered, a review for the test, and other
subjects of interest to the crew. We then fueled up at LBM and went on to Long Cove Marina
where we pumped out the holding tank. The entrance to that marina can be tricky but we
managed to enter and leave without carving out any of the bottom.
From there we went to the Chester River where we enjoyed about 1.5 hours of lovely sailing on all
points of sail, with about 12-15 kts of wind from the southeast. We returned to LBM at around
1445, cleaned up boat and then the students took test. All passed with excellent scores.
What a great and challenging little cruise with a wonderful crew!

104 - Kent Island Circumnavigation in - Jun 21 to June 25

Captain David Gifford

Everyone arrived at 9. We had the sweet couple Carol and Jacques who own their own Island packet and were interested in honing their skills to make some longer passages. Carol was a whiz at nav and Jacques was a whiz at the understated comment that would make us all crack up. Jeff, also a boat owner, had quite a bit of previous training and was very helpful with getting our 4th student, Bob, ready for his 104 exam. Bob, who had his previous 101 and 103 with MSS the previous summer, was eager to achieve the next 104 certification. Bob also was the only crew needing to test. It was tag team event, as the whole group was very helpful in getting Bob ready.

We started the day with getting everyone’s gear onboard and then became familiar with the below decks of Navigator. We took a lunch break and then took Navigator over to the fuel dock for a pump-out and to fuel up. We had a light wind on the nose for both getting on and off both docks so we used a standing turn to the right for departure for both docks.

Next up was planning our route to Godfrey Bay in Deltaville. Students identified waypoints, latitude, longitude, light list number, weekly updates to the light list, local notice to mariners and the coast pilot. That always takes a while but finished up around 6pm and then made our way to the popular and walkable seaside restaurant Stoneys for dinner.

All were up at by 7am and were getting the boat ready by 8. One last trip to the onshore facilities and we were off to Deltaville. It was very light wind and had to keep the first reef in on the main (due to a needed repair that would have to wait until we returned to Rock Hall). Consequently, we needed to motor sail quite a bit to maintain a boat speed of 5kts. Loads of sports fishermen were out in the southern bay again this year. I assume a fishing tournament of some sort.

As the wind shifted around to the south, the whisker pole would have been fun to set up but sadly we were thwarted by the same workaround on the mast that prevented us from using the full main. Not to worry though because with the preventer on heading down to run, the clew of the Genoa seemed to stay outboard fairly easily without the whisker pole.

After a few hourly checks of the bilge we discovered we were taking on water. I had a look around and discovered water coming in the rudder post. That discovery was a little alarming but I checked in with Frank and it turns out that will happen on a slow downwind leg when the stern sits low and flat. Sure enough when the wind changed and we were on more of a reach, the water stopped coming in via the rudder post. We got in to Deltaville, got the anchor down, set, snubber on and finally got to celebrate with Happy hour that included sparkling water, carrots and hummus. Then, we made an easy dinner of spaghetti and salad. We split forces by half cooking and the other half planned the next day.

Up at 0700 and off by 0900. Fishing Bay at Deltaville is sort of a masters class in navigating a shoaly river entrance. Shoals are everywhere and markers seem oddly placed. Also, watch out for the Piankatank River Light 10 whose shoal extends way past the marker. Luckily Jeff was keeping a close eye on the depth sounder and saved us just in time. A little farther out we tried a visual fix using Stingray point and Windmill Point just outside the Piankatank. Taking bearings went well as everyone got comfortable using the hand held compass. Wind was on the nose most of the day and very light so didn’t get the sails out until after lunch. It was a shorter passage so we stopped at the entrance on the Great Wicomico to do our Crew overboard drills. We practiced furling the staysail and blowing the main halyard as the boat came up into and thru the wind. Then, under power, the boat was maneuvered so that we put the crew overboard on the lee side of the boat. After 4 excellent COBs, we made our way into the Great Wicomico and were greeted by an enormous pod of Dolphins! It’s always the best to watch these beautiful, playful creatures. We went right in to an easy anchorage and Jeff made a chicken and tortellini soup and Carol lead the planning for the passage to Solomon’s.

Great Wicomico to Solomon’s Spring cove marina today. We got up at 6 and left just after 8. We decided on an early start due to an afternoon weather system we wanted to avoid. After we rounded the east most marker coming out of the Great Wicomico, we headed north. We had a stiff southerly breeze that gusted time to time to 26kts. It allowed us to go wing and wing most of the day. (We already had a reef in the main due to work around with the track on the mast) so just furled in the Genoa as the wind built. Everyone steered with precision and we learned how careful one has to steer in rolly seas to prevent an accidental jibe. We had a preventer on the main so if we got too far off the wind we had a safety. We made it to Spring Cove Marina with about 2 hours to spare before the storm so we had time to go the pool, review knots, shower and off to dinner. By then though, the storm was almost upon us. 3 of us we hoping for a walk to dinner which was just over a mile. We checked the radar and power walked it to the Lighthouse restaurant. We made it there with 5 min to spare and then it came down in buckets. Phew.

Not so lucky with wind and rain today. 20 plus knots out of the north and ebb current most of the day. Slow going. We left just after 0900 and got into Annapolis around 2000. Squalls, gloomy sky, wet and bumpy in short. But, about 2 hours south of Annapolis, the sky started to clear so at least the last part was ok. Also, as we came into the mooring field, half of the mooring balls were covered with signs emblazoned with DO NOT USE. We found one that wasn’t labeled luckily and we were in. Next morning, our other 104 boat (also on a class) came by and said they had been kicked off the same ball the evening before. Guess we got in so late no one was around to make us seek another ball. In the morning there was an enormous barge working on the moorings next to us. I think they were waiting for us to leave and I’m sure annoyed we were there. Guess we got away with murder. A thousand pardons Tom and Frank.

Last day. We were so tired we left the last day of planning for the morning. Bob led this as he had to take the 104 test later in the day. Everyone else, got the boat ready and we were off the ball a little after 9 and on our way to Lankford Bay Marina in Rock Hall. We reviewed for the test and sailed a little on the way back. Tried to pump out at LBM but pump-out was broken. Got back in the slip, got Bob started on the test and the rest cleaned up boat. Bob passed with flying colors and I passed out certificates. It was a fun trip and hope all felt like they learned a little something.

Yvonne Brandt
USCG Licensed Master

104E - Norfolk to Rock Hall - June 19 to 24

Captain Yvonne Brandt

104 - Kent Island Circumnavigation - May 14 to 18

Captain Gerald van Wilgen

$June 6, 2026: Navigator is at Mystic Seaport Museum Marina awaiting the arrival of the crew. They should be on board later today for discussing the plans for the training cruise and then get to know each other over dinner. June 8, 2026: Weather forecast from Captain Tursi - Looks like all of those northerly winds of last week have turned SW for next few days, but nothing too serious 15 or less. No tropical storms expected for next 7 days June 9, 2026: A message from Captain Frank - We are all set to get underway this morning. We plan on getting off the dock about 9:15 and passing through the bridge in downtown Mystic on the 9:40 opening. The wife of one of our crew plans to be on the waterfront, to record our transit and send it to us. So, look for that, hopefully. We will be taking on fuel as we depart, then it is off into the Long Island Sound, where we will set our sails and head for the ocean. Our SPOT tracking device is active, so you should be able to watch our progress. Remember, though, that it can be temperamental, so if it doesn't always show our passage, it doesn't mean anything bad. https://maps.findmespot.com/s/NRNV. We should be in Norfolk by the weekend or a little later. we will have a better idea after Thursday, as there is some weather forecast for then, which may impact our travels. Until we see you all again, stay safe! Wednesday June 10, 2026: Weather report from Captain Tursi - Your SW winds increasing overnight Wed-Th to SW 20-25 and moderating to SW 10-15 by mid day Thu. Turning W-NW overnight Th-Fri 10 kt and below. No tropical storm activity expected next seven days. Heave to early if needed Sail On! Thursday June 11, 2026: Weather report from Captain Tursi - As you know winds in your area continue SW 20-25 tonight, abating overnight to W 10-15 by midday Thu then fluctuating between SW to NW 10-15 and sometimes lower depending on your location until Fri. Tropical Depression Christina developing near El Salvador but course direction not yet clear. Sail On! June 10, 2026: Message from Captain Frank - After getting underway from Mystic Seaport Museum Marina and passing through the Mystic bridges, we traveled down the river and stopped at the Noank Shipyard fuel dock. We took on diesel and headed out. Once we were east of Fisher’s Island we set the mainsail and, a little later, the headsail. We were able to sail out of the Block Island Sound and into the ocean, but once we were in the ocean, the southwest wind really began to assert itself. Since our next waypoint lay right in the eye of wind, we are having to tack toward it. We have been doing four hour legs, but this morning, as the wind has backed more southerly, we are going to take a long leg to the west and try to get back to our original course. The crew is doing well, although the lumpy seas do have heads poking up from the companionway periodically to “grab a little fresh air.” Last night’s dinner, chicken and dumplings, was a hit with the crew and, as with the northbound trip, no leftovers were found Our first dolphin sighting was this morning about 6:30. This, of course, means today will be a good day. We are not far along on the trip yet to predict an arrival time, but we hope to be home before too much longer! June 11, 2026 Message from Captain Frank - There are times when the ocean is beautiful. Deep blue under a cloudless sky or obsidian black as the sun first comes over the horizon, sparkling a trail of flaming diamonds. Yesterday was not that day. The sea was sullen, gray and lumpy. We knew some bad weather was coming and we got ready for it. We had a pod of dolphin meet us about noon, dozens of them, with young pups just learning to hunt. We took that as a good sign, but hedged our bets. We put the second reef in the mainsail, and were already on the staysail, at 1600. At 1800, the first big gusts starting hitting us, so we lashed the wheel and hove to. Initially, the wind rose, then dropped back down and we thought that maybe the forecast was wrong. It wasn’t. By 2100, the wind was back with a vengeance and we were very glad we were tucked in, nice and secure. The wind sang in the rigging all night, finally starting to drop about daybreak. We were underway again about 0500 and at 0700, we kicked the second reef out of the main, set the Genoa and were fully underway again. The wind is still South of West, but we hope it will clock today and allow us to finally get headed to our waypoint off the Delaware Bay. By the way, dinner last night was “eat what you think will stay down.” We hope for a heartier meal tonight. We are moving so we might be able to predict our landfall in tomorrow’s message. June 12, 2026: Message from Captain Frank - Another exciting day at sea…well, maybe not. Given the boring nature of the weather forecast - winds from the southwest, 10-15 knots, seas 3 feet - we finally bit the bullet and started motoring directly to our waypoint off the Delaware Bay. Between the wind on our nose, the waves coming from the same direction and a foul counter-eddy to the Labrador Current, we weren’t going fast, but every time we tried to sail, we ended up going in the wrong direction! Finally, about 5:30 this morning, the wind went west enough that we could reset the staysail and we are now motor-sailing at a much better speed. Depending on what the wind does, we will do our best to get back to actual sailing today. Dinner last night was chili and rice, with raw veggies as an appetizer and rustic sourdough bread as a side. Yum! The last vestiges of queasiness have left the crew and we decided to have something with flavor. Our daily dolphin sighting came late, almost at sundown. We were worried that we would have a day without, but they came through at the end. Just before sunup this morning, we could see the loom of the lights over the New Jersey coast. It’s the little things that let you know there is a world beyond the boat. It is beginning to look like our arrival time is going to be early Sunday morning, but we may be close enough for phone communications Saturday evening. We will see you all soon! Friday, June 12, 2026: Weather forecast from Captain Tursi - Looks like the winds will clock around to the west overnight tonight and to the north by Saturday all below 15 knots. TD#1 in southern Gulf near Guatemala forecast to travel north but cyclonic formation not expected in next 7 days; less than 20% chance You're doing well. Sail on! Saturday, June 13, 2026: Message from Captain Frank - As I write this, we are about 50 miles northwest of the entrance to the Chesapeake Bay. If we were driving, we would get there in time for a late breakfast. However, we are on a boat, so it will take us most of the day. We are back to motoring. While the wind has finally turned to the NW, it has also dropped to about 5 knots. This is the joy of an ocean trip. The wind is diabolical most of the time. Dinner last night was the Suzanne-sponsored white chicken chili. A very hearty meal which was enjoyed by all the crew. Finally, a meal with some flavor! We had multiple dolphin sightings during the day and the gray bottle nose dolphin eventually became the predominant over his smaller, black and white cousin. We hope to see some today to wrap up the trip. Did I mention that we expect to be near land tonight? If possible, we will get into Cobb’s marina late this evening. This is dependent on us being able to get the OK from them. If we can’t, then we will go in first thing in the morning. Either way, you should hear from your sailor tonight. Sunday, June 14, 2026: Message from Captain Frank - We arrived at the marina last night about 2030, just as the sun was going down. We had enough light to get to our slip and get tied up, although, by the time the crew had packed their gear, cleaned up the boat, said their good-byes and departed, it was well onto 2300. David and I fell into bed - with the air conditioning running for the first time since we got underway. It is true that we could not run it offshore, but we truly did not need it this trip. After the first long sleep for a week, we arose the next morning, went to breakfast, and picked up our rental car for our return to Rock Hall. Initially, I had thought a \"small SUV\" was overkill but after loading our personal gear, our professional gear and the ocean passage making sails and equipment into the car, there was not a lot of room left over! Mystic was a great place to visit, the underway period both directions was the proper balance of effort and tedium and we are sure that the crew will have stories to tell. Captain Frank Mummert$

Mystic to Norfolk - June 7 to June 14

Captains Frank Mummert and David Gifford

May 27, 2026: The crew has had their last land based meal and they are settling in for a good night sleep before departing, Thursday morning at about 0900.

May 27, 2026: Weather forecast from Captain Tom Tursi -Big Low developing way up north moving NE out to sea producing N winds for you in coming days. Moderate wind strengths until Fri-Sat when you may see 20-25 from N; lower nearer to coast.

No tropical storms expected for a week in N Atlantic

To follow the track of SV Navigator:

https://maps.findmespot.com/s/K2S3"

May 28, 2026: Weather forecast from Captain Tursi - Assuming that you are headed south to vicinity of C Hatteras then turning N toward Mystic, expect N winds 20 kt and below thru Friday then turning SW Fri night and back to NW Saturday with gusts to 25.

May 29, 2026: Message from Captain Frank - We got off the dock about 10:00 yesterday and were out in the Bay soon after. We saw a few navy vessels, not all of them U.S. We think there may have been some foreign ships in Norfolk for the Memorial Day holiday.

Once out of the Bay, we set a single-reefed main and Genoa to run out 75 miles SE, to clear the shipping lanes and add some length to our trip. Unfortunately, the true wind, out of the NW, wasn’t enough to keep up our speed over ground, so we had to motor-sail.

In the afternoon, we discovered a huge batch of stowaways. A cloud of black flies descended on the boat and we spent several hours fighting them. They bit us, we swatted them and the result was that we won - I think.

After a delicious meal in the cockpit, we settled in for the night, with an almost full moon lighting our way.

Around 4, we reached our “mid-ocean” waypoint and proceeded to turn north toward Mystic. The wind had risen into the low 20s and was coming right in our faces, literally! The course to Mystic was 038 and the wind was coming from 030. We dropped onto the starboard tack, to try to move away from the Gulf Stream, but found ourselves moving south of our outbound track. We were sailing really well, but moving further and further away from our goal.

After attempting to motor in the direction we wanted to go, we reviewed the weather forecast and set a new waypoint further inshore. We hope to take advantage of a predicted wind change later today to get us moving in the right direction again.

All aboard are hale and healthy, and will be happy to talk to you all again soon.

May 29, 2026: Weather report for Captain Tursi - Looks line a tough week coming up for you. Low E of Montauk producing Gale Force from N Saturday and spreading south to your area by midday Saturday; moving E away from you by Sunday as Low moves NE. Your winds turning S 10-15 later Sunday and turning from N 10-20 by midday Monday; increasing to 20 NNE later Monday. Another Low developing several hundred miles E of Norfolk on Wednesday producing Gale Force from N for you; lower winds nearer shore as Low moves E.

Tropical cyclones not expected for next 7 days

May 30, 2026: Message from Captain Frank - Yesterday was a day of extremes. We had wonderful sailing that took us nowhere near our destination and motoring which took us more toward of destination but was slow, noisy and uncomfortable.

Since we couldn’t go directly toward our destination, we decided to come back more to the west and see if we could get a better angle. Also, we had a forecast that said the wind would move more to the southwest inshore.

It did finally turn, a little after sunset and we were finally able to secure the engine and sail, first on a broad reach and eventually on a beam.

Dinner last night was pasta and meatballs. All hands congratulate Suzanne on her choice of pasta.

We have seen several large sea turtles over the past 24 hours and today, about 6, we were joined by a pod of porpoises, who stayed with us until almost 6:30. Every time we thought we had seen the last one go, another would pop up. At one point they were close enough to hear their “voices.”

We have the possibility of some heavy weather this afternoon, so we may heave-to to ride it out. Keep this in mind if the SPOT trails shows us staying in one place for several hours. I promise we will be safe.

It is looking like we may be in late Monday or early Tuesday. We will provide more details as we know them.

Last but not least, everyone say happy birthday to Matt!

May 31, 2026: Message from Captain Frank - Yesterday started out well, but by noon, we were unhappy sailors. The wind was coming right from where we needed to go, at 20+ knots, with gusts into the 30s. This gale had been predicted, so we were ready for it. We had put the second reef in the mainsail and had cleaned up the boat.

When it hit, we hove to on our starboard tack and sat back to wait it out. The forecasts we were seeing indicated that it should drift off by midnight. We sat our watches in the cockpit, wrapped to our noses in our warmest gear. It was cold!!

When the seas and winds did not abated at midnight, I began to curse the weather folks. However, it did start to die about 0100, and by 2, it was gone and we were able to get underway again.

Winds are still light but are predicted to build during the day and we are finally headed the right direction.

Dinner last night was “um, no thanks” so we will have our chicken and tortellini tonight, we hope!

It now looks definite that we will be in on Tuesday rather than Monday.

June 1, 2026: Message from Captain Frank - Yesterday paid us back for the heavy weather of Saturday. We were able to get moving in the right direction and by mid-morning, we were motor-sailing. By early afternoon, we were able to shut off the engine and enjoy a wonderful down wind sail. We shook both reefs out of the main and had the full Genoa out in 15-20 knots of wind.

Dinner was the chicken and tortellini that had been pulled from the menu the day before.

Dolphin and turtles continue to cross our paths, as did the fishing fleet out of Barnegat Bay this morning. We are above the latitude of the C & D canal, so we finally feel free of the Chesapeake Bay.

This morning, the Sirius weather update indicated that we would have a cold front cross our path and the wind behind it would be light and fluky. For once, Sirius was dead on! Right at 5:00, we passed from a clear sky to a completely cloudy one and the wind veered 70 degrees and dropped to 5 knots true. We were already running the engine out of gear for a battery charge, so we put it in gear and soldiered on….I mean, sailored on!

Right now, it appears we will arrive at the Montauk Light early tomorrow and be tucked in to Mystic in the early afternoon. All hands are looking forward to warm accommodations and hot showers.

June 1, 2026: Weather forecast for Captain Tursi - Today, Mon winds NE10 increasing overnight to NE10-20. Tue light winds NE; overnight Tue-Wed SW10. No significant features in your area. No tropical systems next 7 days.

June 2, 2026: Message from Captain Frank - As I write this, we are making our turn around Fry Point, on the eastern end of Montauk, and beginning our run across the Block Island Sound to Fisher Island. We have picked up the flood current, so we are hoping for a rapid trip across this twelve mile run.

Yesterday was another good sailing, hard cruising day. The wind, which was light early, strengthened to 20 knots, gusting 25, out of the Northeast. We were able to sail a little west of north, toward Long Island, but we really needed to be going more northeast. Fortunately, as the day progressed, the wind clocked around until it was coming from the east, allowing us to make a curve with it until we were headed generally where we needed to go. However, with the winds came the waves and the combination of the wind-driven waves and the persistent swell made the trip bumpy. Since we didn’t want the boat to pound into the seas, we tended to be a bit further off the wind than a perfect course would dictate.

Dinner was sandwiches again as anything in a pot would have gone airborne. We have decided to eat last night’s dinner for lunch today - chili and rice. We don’t care about the effects as everyone should be off the boat tonight!

We are hoping to be in Mystic by early afternoon, so expect to hear from your sailors today.

Thanks to all of you for letting us borrow them for this week and, when they tell you stories about how brave they were in the face of howling winds and towering waves, believe them.

It’s only polite and may even be true!

Captain Frank Mummert

Norfolk to Mystic - May 25 to June 2

Captains Frank Mummert and David Gifford