After a pleasant month cruiusing around Southern New England, and having connected with the Salty Dawgs flotilla, it’s time for the return trip to Maine. Our departure was delayed a few days due to some unpleasant weather. We decided to sit out the storms in Provincetown where we enjoyed getting better acquainted with some of the Salty Dawgs.
We left Provincetown at noon today. Why not the usual departure at first light? Provincetown to Rockland, our landing point in Maine, is about 145 nautical miles, meaning an overnight trip. We left later so that we would arrive after sunrise. This is especially important when approaching the Maine coast in order toe see the ubiquitous lobster traps waiting to get tangled in our propeller.
We sailed out of Provincetown with other vessels from our group, but eventually spread out. Flotills sailing is a new experience for us. Although we’re alone with no sight of land or other vessels, it’s comforting to know there are friendly boats within radio distance from us. We also maintain regular contact to share information about wind, whale sitings, etc.
As we crossed the Stellwagen bank, we were entertained by numerous humpbackwhales breaching and diving. The wind fell off, but we’re promised some more this evening and through part of the night, as well as a 3/4 moon until about 0345. Should be a nice,albeit long night.
