Sandy Hook to Cape May

Yesterday at 8:20, right on schedule, we sailed out of Sandy Hook and headed into the Atlantic Ocean. What a feeling!

Before we left our mood was sombre as we went around and checked to make sure everything was fastened down and securely put away. We don't need flying projectiles down below if the weather decides to turn bad. They weren't calling for anything bad but you know what they say, an ounce of prevention.........

Once we got into open water, though, any stress that we were carrying was washed away and a feeling of euphoria took over. The sea was gentle, the wind was moderate, and it was warm and sunny. Who could ask for anything more?

We had a lovely sail most of the day. We had to turn on the engine now and then as the wind died down to nothing at times, and when it did pick up it was right on the nose, but that's sailing. All in all, for me, it was perfect and the night sailing went just as well.

However, when the sun came up so did the wind. Just as we got to Cape May and turned the corner into Delaware Bay we ran into some heavy weather. With a strong head wind and big seas we decided to turn back and duck into Cape May. The other boat we are travelling with, Lions Paw, did not due to some low bridges in Cape May. Also, their boat is bigger and heavier and could handle the conditions better than ours. So we are separated once again.