1st Southbound Cruise for the Winter

Some land obligations kept us tied to the docks far longer than either of us hoped to wrap up loose ends such as getting rid of two vehicles, Licensed Captain course, and medical appointments before we could head south for the winter. 

For at least ten years, we have dreamt of this moment, we’re finally here and are completely stoked! How far south we go remains unknown as Florida continues to imposing anchoring restrictions in what is already at capacity with many marinas. Followed by the Bahamas entry fee costs. So, with no planned itinerary in mind, we’ll cruise at a much slower pace. Hopefully, we won’t regret our “wing it” mentality.

Costs:

• Dining: $462
• Mani & Pedi: $150
• Marinas: $1,300
• Mooring Ball: $0
• Provisions: $225
• Shopping: $25
• Tips: $5
• Uber: $7
• West Marine: $0

*Cost excludes pre-departure costs of 400 gallons of fuel ($2.99 x 400 = $1,199.60). Along with estimated fuel consumption is not calculated at this time. Kick off provisions, $1,500.

Total: $??

Thursday, November 6, 2025 (Day 1)

Departure: Granary Marina (Georgetown, MD) 10:05AM 

Captain’s Report:

• Rippling Waters
• Breezy (12mph)
• Cruising Average Speed 7.2kn, Peak Speed: ​8.4kn
• Outside is ?? (54°F) & Humidity (​36%)
• 10:57AM 27kn Winds Approaching Sassafras River Mouth Entrance/Exit
• 12:15AM Port to Starboard Pass with M/V Nanook 
• 2:39PM Starboard to Port with Center Console Vessel
• 2:56PM Throttle Back B/V Glovis Safety Pass Starboard to Port
• 3:08PM B/V Glovis Safety Passing Under Bay Bridge
• 3:11PM Port to Port Pass with B/V Zeus
• 3:12PM .8kn Bow Current
• 3:19PM Passed Under Bay Bridge

Arrival: ​Annapolis Yacht Basin Company (Annapolis, MD) (Slip 9) 4:25PM

Distance Cruised: 45 Miles

Special Comments:

• Sipping my morning coffee, I could feel a growing knot in my throat. It’s been a whirlwind of tasks since our boating season commenced on April 11, 2025. Noticing our starboard neighbor winterizing and preparing for winter storage, it hit me that our moment was finally here. We’re headed south. Tears of joy!
• Interesting USCG local announcement (2:36PM) of a mariner tied up a Channel Marker. HHHmmm!
• Coming into Spa Creek the sun glare made it nearly impossible to see anything.
• I had just set up my bow lines for the Mooring Ball when we were hailed, surprisingly it was Annapolis Yacht Basin Company with our slip assignment. We had called earlier in the afternoon but with the office closing at 4:30PM we couldn’t commit if for whatever reason we would need to throttle back. Dock attendent was quick with our lines and power cord. Told to settle up in the AM.
• Our starboard neighbor, M/V Winning Drive stretches 130′ long and make us feel like their tender. Owned by Steve Bisciotti, Baltimore Ravens owner, but we say, Go Eagles!

Next Stop: Solomons, MD (Saturday, 11/8/25)

Friday, November 7, 2025 (Day 2)

Docked: Annapolis Yacht Basin Company (Annapolis, MD) (Slip 9) 

Special Comments:

• For all the years we have visited Annapolis, MD our time never permitted a tour of the United States Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD). Checkout our photos, United States Naval Academy (USNA).
• Followed by lunch at our favorite place, Cafe Normandie (Annapolis, MD). Always delicious, fresh ingredients and homemade.
• Picked up some Mango Sticky Rice to go for dinner from Tarin Thai Cuisine (Annapolis, MD).
• Upon our return, I noticed one of our black fender floating by the vessel. Fortunately, retrieved with some assistance from M/V Mischief without further incident.
• We had the pleasure of chatting with our new starboard neighbors (father and son) from Toronto, Canada onboard M/V Mischief on a time restraint to Florida. Eventually, couple (husband and wife) will commence the Great Loop.
• Briefly met our new port side neighbor, M/V Juanita.

Next Stop: Solomons, MD (Saturday, 11/8/25)

Saturday, November 8, 2025 (Day 3)

Departure: Annapolis Yacht Basin Company (Annapolis, MD) (Slip 9) 6:55AM 

Captain’s Report:

• Calm Waters
• Cruising Average Speed 7.4kn, Peak Speed: ​8kn
• Outside is Cool (58°F) & Humidity (​89%)
• 7:14AM 5 Horns Blown for S/V Beatrix (Motoring) on Port Side with Helm Unmanned Spinning Towards our Bow in the Channel
• 7:17AM Port to Starboard Pass of M/V Layla (17kn)
• 7:50AM Starboard Pass Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse (Annapolis, MD)
• 8:11AM Passed by M/V Juanita Starboard to Port
• 10:27AM Adjusted Course with Crab Lines in 35′ Water
• 11:41AM Cove Point LNG Starboard Pass

Arrival: ​Calvert Marina (Solomons, MD) (Slip – Inner Long Dock) 12:45PM

Distance Cruised: 44 Miles

Special Comments:

• Preparing for departure overhead was a drone. Somewhere capturing us, so always wave for the camera.
• As I stood on the bow wrapping my lines for storage across Spa Creek my eye spotted another Nordhavn at Oasis. Looked like a N43 with a flybridge.
• Exiting Spa Creek there’s no doubt that Annapolis is considered “America’s Sailing Capital“.
• With the water reflection the Pilothouse had us cooking like a rotisserie chicken in 84°F (outside 60°F), opening port side door wasn’t enough ventilation so we opened starboard door too. Absolutely, loving our retractable Phantom Screen doors!
• Just as we were coming into the dock, Jacques lost steering. With a incoming sailing vessel on our bow, all I could do was flap my arms in distress and yell “we lost steering”, fortunately, they heard me and steered away. Dock hand heard me as well. So, what should have been easy docking was most armature and eventful. Bad timing! Issue happened once before shortly after our acquisition, some kind of electrical reboot. Since resolved.
• Upon our arrival at Calvert Marina (Solomons, MD) we were greeted by Kimberley & Eric of M/V Havaseas (N50). A youtube channel we began following onboard M/V Havaseas (N55) Alaska adventures. Cool! OMG, pooch, didn’t say, “Havaseas ya’ next time” like it does on their youtube intro. WONK, wonk. LOL!
• Due to incoming weather making for a unpleasant cruise we’re extending our Regatta Point Yachting Center (Deltaville, VA) until Thursday, 11/13/25 vs Tuesday, 11/11/25.
• We had a fantastic time with Jessica & Philip D (M/V Beautiful Mother) this evening. Delicious dinner at Bugeye Grill (Solomons, MD).

Next Stop: Regatta Point Yachting Center (Deltaville, VA) (Sunday, 11/9/25 – Thursday, 11/13/25)

Sunday, November 9, 2025 (Day 4)

Departure: Calvert Marina (Solomons, MD) (Slip – Inner Long Dock) 6:35AM 

Captain’s Report:

• Calm Waters
• Cruising Average Speed 7kn, Peak Speed: ​7.5kn
• Outside is Cold (40°F) & Humidity (​86%)
• 6:50AM Rain Showers
• 7:35AM Rain Showers Ended
• 8:42AM Starboard Pass Point No Point Light
• 9:40AM Starboard to Starboard Pass with Small Motor Vessel (No AIS or Radar)
• 10:40AM Port to Starboard Pass with a Large Motor Vessel (No AIS or Radar)
• 10:44AM Current Change Against Us
• 10:48AM Port Pass Midpoint Light
• 10:54AM Waves Increased to 1/2′
• 11:29AM Less Than 2 Mile Visibility Ahead
• 11:32AM Port to Starboard Pass with M/V Beautiful Noise
• 12:27PM Increased Wind to 15kn on Our Bow

Arrival: ​Regatta Point Yachting Center (Deltaville, VA) 2PM

Distance Cruised: 55 Miles

Special Comments:

• While winds have delayed our Georgetown, MD departure we’re opting to cruise as weather windows permit for the best cruising experience. After all, that’s retirement life!
• Unfavorable winds on Tuesday, 11/11/25 we decided to extend our stay until Thursday, 11/13/25 at Regatta Point Yachting Center (Deltaville, VA).
• No photos or videos while underway because most of the cruise was just us with little sightings beyond water.
• Our friends Nancy & Charlie B (M/V Bluewater, N47) shortened their Fishing Bay anchorage stay due to incoming winds and docking. Of course disappointed for them, we selfishly were thrilled to have them greet us upon arrival. Followed by a delicious dinner at The Table Market & Restaurant (Deltaville, VA). To know, Jacques then ya’ know he couldn’t pass up the opportunity for soft coffee ice cream. While the large cinnamon bun caught my attention for breakfast tomorrow.
• At the moment, the sand man arrived with lead eyelids, the wind began whipping. Yelp, didn’t phase Jacques at all as he snored away. On a few occasions, I muttered “wwoooo“. Then pondering whether in high winds whether a fixed dock with piling or floating concrete dock with cleats is the best option. Jacques reassured me, we’re fine.

Next Stop: ?? (Norfolk, VA) (Thursday, 11/13/25)

Monday, November 10, 2025 (Day 5)

Docked: ​Regatta Point Yachting Center (Deltaville, VA)

Special Comments:

• I awoke organically was up by 6AM so I went outside to check lines as after last evenings storm as Jacques remained peacefully sleeping. They were fine but, what captured my attention was a beautiful heron by our bow on the corner of the dock. Shockingly not even spoked by my presence. Disappointed I couldn’t capture a picture as my phone remained on the charger downstairs which would risk waking up Jacques.
• Well, well, well apparently howling Mother Nature did awaken Jacques at 4AM this morning, I on the other hand slept right through it.
• Chris B (M/V Paragon, N47) informed us this morning that the Centerville Bridge (Chesapeake, VA) south of Atlantic Yacht Basin (AYB) (Chesapeake, VA) is broken with no word yet when it will reopen. This poses a concern for “snowbirds“ like us and many others cruising south. The Dismal Swamp (only dredged every 5 years) or 25 a hour offshore run are both unfavorable. Fingers crossed it’s repaired soon!
• Face dock neighbor, M/V Blue Zone (Manship) is pushing off and headed to Norfolk, VA. Safe travels it’s gonna be a bumpy ride!
• From the pilothouse we clocked 33.3kn winds.
• Had a fantastic time with friends Nancy & Charlie B (M/V Bluewater, N47). Nancy served us delicious Monte Cristo for lunch. They took us to the Deltaville Market to provision. Scored some whole chestnuts, which is our seasonal roasting favorite.
• We finally met Sharyn & Tom S (M/V Further, N47). Our first “Nordy Noodle” with only N47 owners over dinner at Deltaville Tap & Raw Bar (Deltaville, VA). Too good of a time was being had to breakaway, and it was that moment Charlie invites everyone for dessert onboard M/V Bluewater. Nancy’s facial expression of surprise was utterly priceless. “Oh, Charlie“.
• Upon our vessel return we clocked winds from the pilothouse at 40kn. On 3 different occasions the wind had us leaning starboard, like rolling in the bed lean. Such didn’t seem to bother Jacques, but it was well past 1:30AM before I could fall asleep.

Next Stop: ?? (Norfolk, VA) (Thursday, 11/13/25)

Tuesday, November 11, 2025 (Day 6)

Docked: ​Regatta Point Yachting Center (Deltaville, VA)

Special Comments:

• Today marks our 14th Wedding Anniversary (11/11/11) which is far different than past years. Because such a day falling on a weekday without hesitation from Jacques was a day off from work. Yelp, throughout these many years during his corporate tenor no conference, meeting, or war room was ever more important than our day! This year, he’s retired. It’s been our tradition to alternate in planning year after year. Well, this year, it was my turn to plan. As a planner, with uncertainty as to where exactly we would be as the attention to detail always seemed to matter. From a getaway with a full day of spa pampering (gosh, how we have indulged in some grand muds, salts, scrubs experiences), fine dining and entertainment. Well, until last week, I was stressing over all the logistics until the moment he grabbed my hand and looked at me, to say, “I have all I need right here, you and that’s enough for me”. Deltaville has very little to offer but as Sonny & Cher said, “I Got You Babe”. So, today, unlike any other year, we’re snuggled in our flannel pajamas, reminiscing about past years while binge watching shows, tossing in a load of laundry, and uncertain what’s for lunch or dinner. Yet, I wouldn’t change a thing because it’s who next to me that truly matters the most! He’s my anchor and my everything!
• Catamaran, S/V Kai Lani formerly on the dace dock relocated their vessel to our starboard. Winds must have been brutal there less protected.
• This afternoon, I received a call from my Neurologist office regarding an appointment for next Wednesday, 11/19/25. Not sure what the government shut down has to do with TeleHealth appointment request when I have Personal Choice insurance, not government funded Medicaid or Medicare. Forced to cancel the appointment.

Next Stop: Tidewater Yacht Marina (Portsmouth, VA) (Thursday, 11/13/25)

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 (Day 7)

Docked: ​Regatta Point Yachting Center (Deltaville, VA)

Special Comments:

• So, bummed that we somehow missed the Northern Light display along the East Coast.
• Interesting article surfacing amongst the Boating Community, Boater Arrested After Docking on Restricted Dock During Storm (Beaufort, SC). Controversial views whether the owner was in the right or wrong. What do you think?
• Sharyn & Tom S (M/V Further, N47) picked us up for lunch at Howard-Dooley Cafe (Mathew, VA). Afterwards we had the pleasure to meet their dogs, tour their vessel, and tour ours.

Next Stop: Tidewater Yacht Marina (Portsmouth, VA) (Thursday, 11/13/25)

Thursday, November 13, 2025 (Day 8)

Departure: Regatta Point Yachting Center (Deltaville, VA) 7:05AM 

Captain’s Report:

• Calm Waters
• Cruising Average Speed 7.4kn, Peak Speed: ​8kn
• Outside is Cold (50°F) & Humidity (​51%)
• 7:59AM Phoned Regatta Point Yachting Center (Deltaville, VA)
• 8:05AM Notified USCG
• 8:30AM Marine Police Stopped By
• 8:31AM Tow Boat US Called, Will be Here in 1 Hour
• 9:22AM Tow Boat US Arrived to Assist
• 9:38AM Released from Tow Boat US
• 10:23AM Starboard Pass of Cluster of Fishing Vessel Anchored
• 12:38PM Starboard Bow Dolphin Sighting per Jacques
• 1:30PM Water Conditions Changed to 1′ – 2′
• 2:38PM Port to Starboard with Viking Fishing Vessel (No AIS)
• 2:40PM Dolphin Port Sighting per Jacques
• 2:45PM Starboard Pass Ft Monroe National Monument (Fort Monroe, VA)
• 2:52PM Port to Port Pass with Crab Vessel
• 3:02PM Port to Port Pass with M/V Staddion II
• 3:35PM Port to Starboard Pass with M/V Victory Rover

Arrival: Tidewater Yacht Marina (Portsmouth, VA) 4:20PM (Dock F)

Distance Cruised: 55 Miles

Special Comments:

• I had just stowed my lines in, snapped a few outdoor photos, came inside the pilothouse removed my headset and ventured downstairs to the galley for my first cup of coffee. When I felt a strange feeling under my feet. Yelp, we went aground in the channel!
• While aground it was nice for two different trawlers to give us a hail if there was anything they could do as they passed our port side.
• As we stayed aground at 9:20AM there was a USCG announcement about a partially submerged vessel in Spa Creek (Annapolis, MD).
• I lacked confidence that Tow Boat US small boat was going to be able tow us off the shoal, leaning port side we were off only for a short period time before currents and winds pushed us right back. The second time around, we were escorted out of the channel.
• During our evening dock walk, we couldn’t help but to notice a BEAUTIFUL Nordhavn, M/V Genesis (N6078) on E Dock. Interior lights were open but, we did not notice anybody, otherwise we would have knocked.
• Unless, you opt for a ocean crossing there’s really only one game in the town with shorter days in Coinjock, NC. We called, basically the only marina option, there’s a “waiting list“, even though we’re “wingin’ it” awaiting a call on the morning of just pushed the envelope, so we are further exploring other options.
• Noticed one of flame torches was missing. Asking Jacques if he stored it away, apparently donated to the water gods by a dockhand handling our lines during a recent stop. Thank goodness, for Amazon!

Next Stop: ??

Friday, November 14, 2025 (Day 9)

Docked: Tidewater Yacht Marina (Portsmouth, VA) (Dock F)

Special Comments:

• Our stay was to be overnight, however with unfavorable winds we’ve decided to extend our stay.
• Scooters rentals are not available by the marina for that one would need to ferry over across to bay to Norfolk, VA which we have already visited. Presume, if you have your own it’s otherwise permitted.
• Today we walked beyond the gates for lunch. Anytime we stop our cuisine preference search in no particular order: French, Italian, Puerto Rican, & Thai. Since it’s been a while we opted for Thai cuisine, we dined at Thai Basil (Portsmouth, VA). YUM! Anticipating a night at anchorage, even planned ahead with a order of Tum Yum to go. Especially, since nights are cold yet. The walk there was a nice stroll through the Old District, with much of the streets lined in uneven brick sidewalks. Some beautiful homes with arches, balconies, porch swings, and wrought iron. Without a doubt a late night tale of Ghost Walking the Streets featured on Lifetime or in the spirit of the upcoming holidays a chick flick Hallmark Special. Charming quaint town! True confession, with full bellies we did Uber back. My first time requesting an Uber ride! No, I don’t live under a rock, but rural life did require a vehicle to get around. And the few times we ever needed one…well, Jacques just handled it. But, considering we’re carless, this is the new normal. Whoever said ya’ can’t teach an ole dog new tricks, clearly was mistaken (LOL).
• Our new starboard neighbor and view is M/V Mr Chips, a 79’9″ Lazzara Yacht. Robert, Crew Member onboard says, hello to James Knight, Yacht Tech Sales. Apparently, he’s waxed lots of boats in the Palm Beach, FL area.
• We learned vessels over 65′ from November 1st – April 30th are restricted to 10kn due to whale mating season.

Next Stop: ?? (Norfolk, VA) (Monday, 11/17/25)

Saturday, November 15, 2025 (Day 10)

Docked: Tidewater Yacht Marina (Portsmouth, VA) (Dock F)

Special Comments:

• Not sure when it happened but, our starboard neighbor M/V Mr Chips (79’9″ Lazzara Yacht) is gone and our view restored. Surprisedly, we must have slept through all the thruster movement and noise. Because the Delivery Captain heavily used thrusters docking. According to Jacques the benefit of hydraulic thrusters. Actually, according to our starboard security camera they began detaching around 5:30AM.
• Brewing my first cup of coffee at 6:42AM I noticed a slow moving Carnival cruise line. Which has since docked along the Elizabeth River, VA.
• Shocking by our starboard security camera is how much traffic passes by in the early morning hours starting as early as 4:30AM. Based on the couples that have passed by throughout the day, we’re convinced many don’t use their heads onboard.
• Well, the plan after our morning coffee and before we could get into anything on board was to venture out for an early breakfast, upon my return I would make homemade pumpkin roll. Our morning was slightly hijacked, finalizing our next stop on Monday, 11/17/25. Plans confirmed, what a relief!
• On foot strolling a different route, we stumbled on an open air street market. Everything that you could imagine from butcher meats, fruits, homemade baked goods, homemade decor stuff, lotions, vegetables, etc and further realizing it was only Saturday. More importantly, this was something we had talked about and how to be opportunistic. A true pinch me moment, and reminder that we’re livin’ the moment only discussed for so many years. My younger inner self, was skipping and doing cartwheels down the market streets with collapsible bags now stuffed full with fresh goodies. OK, maybe a bit too far with the skipping and cartwheels. (LOL)
• Afterwards, Google maps had us walking off the main strip of eateries and shops, I began to think wires were crossed with someone overseas. Nope, as we arrived at our destination, Yoolks on US (Portsmouth, VA). Now, I can be pretty picky when it comes to my eggs and morning potatoes. Initially, I even frowned on potato cubes vs sliced home fries. Well, the greatest compliment to any chef are clean plates, we enjoyed every bite!
• Yesterday, we had already ordered our Uber ride when we noticed “walk-ins welcome” at Nailz2C and More (Portsmouth, VA). Well, to know us personally, then ya’ already know that we would never turn down the opportunity for a mani/pedi, gosh not even a couples massage for that matter. Like a scene from the 1999 Film, Steel Magnolias, we sat in the vacant hair drying chairs waiting our turn. Before, I could even become engrossed by a game of Scrabble on my phone, Miss Carol sat next to me. At 85 years young, not looking beyond 40. She could read me, like a book. A sweet tea and a porch swing I could have listened to Miss Carol’s stories all day long. For the curious minds, yelp Jacques gets mani and pedi’s too. He did not for many years but, waiting as he would in an empty nail salon, I encouraged him to hop in the seat next to me. He did, and has ever since.
• Bellies full, following our mani/pedi we strolled the scenic route along Elizabeth River, VA. Like a parent, spotting a child amongst the crowd on graduation day we spotted another Nordhavn at Waterside Marina (Norfolk, VA). No AIS, so we’re not sure who it is (yet).
• Like two kids, we stood along the shoreline observing Carnival Sunshine depart and spin on the Elizabeth River, VA. Happier than ever to be on this side of the river, as the ship holds roughly 3,753 passengers and 1,150 crew. The cruise ship decks were full of waving vacationers. The music was pumpin’! Somewhere is a viral video of an ole lady dancing to the YMCA by the Village People. After all, one can’t allow a good song to be wasted and not flap your arms in a Y-M-C-A. So, either you’re hearing the song now or admit it, did the hand motions. (LOL)
• We had the pleasure of meeting fellow Marine Trawler Owners Association (MTOA) Member, Jeff S (M/V Sea Star).
• Eventually, strolling back to our vessel. Surprisingly, with a peripheral view Jacques noticed the door open and lights on inside M/V Genesis (Nordhavn 60′). Somehow, our fatigued legs got a second wind as we ventured over to introduce ourselves. Lovely time chatting.
• No pajama retreat tonight as we’re awaiting the 9PM dock arrival of Youtube Channel VBlogger, InTooDeep. We have been watching Gus (M/V Serenity) for many years, so this is a special treat.
• So, the homemade pumpkin roll we be baked another day.
• FYI Southbound Cruisers…As of 11/15/25 7PM the Great Bridge Bridge (akaL Battlefield Boulevard) drawbridge in Chesapeake, VA is opening every 2 hours on even clock hour numbers 24/7 which is a change from last week’s limited schedule.

Next Stop: Private Dock (Norfolk, VA) (Monday, 11/17/25)