We're still in Annapolis - and it's COLD. Not chilly. COLD. It was 3 degrees
yesterday - one can only imagine what it was like overnight. We're starting
to comprehend how the bays and harbours freeze solid in this part of the
world. The wind chill factor is breathtaking - literally.
 
They're starting to winterize the boats now - they take them out of the
water, drain them of all fluids and shrinkwrap them. It's the oddest thing
to see a boat that's been shrink wrapped in white plastic and sitting on
cradles in neat rows. Especially vessels that are 50 feet or more in length.
 
Things start to shut down in the US. All their theme parks, touristy stuff -
just close. I'm understanding why - it's too cold.
 
There is definately less traffic on the water now - for which we are
grateful. We have quite a few stories to tell of these gung-ho yanks and
their boats. Several of them have tried to anchor in our cockpit. One we had
to fend off with a boat hook - while it was left unattended, and one sailed
so close to our bow that it ran over our anchor chain. We were having a
cuppa downstairs at the time when our boat heeled sharply to port and was
jerked around hard. Things went flying all over the cabin. I caught several
things in mid flight and Marno shouted "we've been hit". We took the
companion stairs two at a time to see the stern of a yacht sailing away at
about 10 knots. The blighter didn't stop, slow down or apologise, just
shouted back at us "oops, ran over your rode". Marno was cursing under his
breath, saying something about hoping they sink.
 
But, our boat bit back. While we were looking around for any damage our
Canadian neighbours saw the whole thing and helped us scoop out an American
flag floating near the anchor chain. Seems the goose sailed so close that
when our boat swung around hard, our bow rail broke off their ensign from
their stern - stick and flag - the whole thing. It was as if our boat bit
back. I couldn't help but feel a little proud. So we attached the flag to
our bow rail as a kind of trophy.
 
We're champing at the bit to head south. But the weather isn't right - still
too many storms. We're still waiting for the rest of our purchases from the
boat show to arrive and a mechanic to assist us in some engine work. We have
found a broken exhaust stud and are trying to find an oil leak. Problems
that Marno's not keen to tackle himself.
 
We were going to sail up the Potomac, but due to delays, we've been thinking
otherwise. After speaking with a local over lunch today we found out that
Washington DC is only 30 minutes drive away from Annapolis. We're still keen
to go and have a sticky and are looking at hiring a car for a few days.
 
Bruises are occuring less these days. I was black and blue from head to toe
when I first moved on board. Another yachtie called them boat bights. It
seems that most women get them. But now I'm getting used to the boat and the
way it moves. I've got a great one on my hip though. It's a beauty - black,
purple, red and green. You really want something to show off after you've
thumped yourself hard. At one stage Marno was feeling quite conspicuous when
I had some beauties up and down both arms.
 
Our Australian boat registration finally came through yesterday. We can't
leave the country until it's finalised. Looks like we can keep the name
"Attitudes". It certainly suits her.

Send mail to marno@yachtattitudes.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: 01/02/09