After a great time in Charleston, a city we really came to appreciate, it was time to continue north. We sailed to Winyah Bay, the last deep inlet before leaving South Carolina. Other than a deserted anchorage nestled between deserted Islands, there wasn’t much to report, UNTIL… upon leaving early the next morning, we were escorted out by a pod of around 40 dolphins! You’d think after having seen so many on this trip, it would stop being exciting. But these animals are such an inspiration that each time we encounter them, it’s more interesting than the last.
We also sailed through a group (herd, pod, gaggle?) of cannonball jellyfish on the way out. Although not as exciting as dolphins, they’re interesting in their own way, appearing as bubbles on the surface of the water.
Our final escort out of S. Carolina was a fleet of shrimp boats heading out with us on the ebb tide.
We crossed into North Carolina, our fourth state so far, and after an 11 hour sail, put in at Southport in the Cape Fear River. Cape Fear? Sounds scary. The name, originally “Cape of Fear”, may come from the numerous ships that were marooned on Frying Pan Shoal, a treacherous shoal that extends about 30 NM offshore to the south. Or possibly the name comes from the pirate, Black-Beard, who hung around these parts.
Southport is a small town with the nicest people. Everyone refers to each other as Sir, Ma’am, Mr. Dan or Ms. Sandy. At a local sandwich stop, they treated us like the closest of relatives.
The highlight of this stop was Bald Head Island, across the Cape Fear River from Southport. This island, accessible by ferry and closed to cars, is mostly residential, and has the most beaitiful beaches we’ve seen on this trip (and maybe ever). There is fine white sand, clean water, and colorful dunes. There’s plenty of room, so we encountered no crowds. It’s also a breeding ground and conservancy for sea turtles. With a rented golf cart, we spent a relaxing day, exploring the island and body surfing in the ocean.
8 Responses
Another interesting read in your “log of the Fregata”.
No dolphins sharing the ocean with dolphins and larger whales never get old. Neither does “southern hospitality “.
Wishing you steady winds and spectacular sunsets.
Thanks, Pete & Carol, Hope you’re having a good start to the summer. D & S
Fantastic. Seeing dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat is so special.
Yes, unforgettable.
It is wonderful to follow you on this magnificent sailing adventure and read about your experience. We love you both, and hope to see you soon again somewhere in this beautiful world.
Big hugs and many kisses,
Jonas, Lita & Christian
Thanks to all of you. And getting together in Key Biscayne was a great way to start the trip! Love, Dan & Sandy
Salut à vous
J’étais passé ar là-bas, mais c’est très surfait : pas vu un seul curé à Kuré Beach ! J’avais été impressionné par les nuages de pélicans..
Ici ? il pleut il pleut et parfois il pleut..
Bonne croisière
Alain
Salut Alain, Pas de curés, mais plein de prêtres, rabbins, mullahs et moines (entre pélicans)…