We readied in the morning for a midday departure. We left our mooring and stopped at Lauderdale Marina to top off fuel and water. The dockhand was kind and helpful. The marina was just before the 27th street bridge. We had an outgoing current so the dockhands allowed us to stay docked until it was closer to a bridge opening.
Once we left the dock, David still had ten minutes of dancing Josie around amidst paddle boarders, fishing boats, tour boats and the water taxi. We caught the 12 o’clock opening. It was our final bridge for awhile.
The inlet was packed with boats but there was plenty of room for all. We made our way slowly out of range of the bridge and marina radio chatter. We had enough wind to sail east and raised 3 sails to make the best speed.
I could not really tell we were in the Gulf Stream. Every now and then there was a warm humid tropical breeze that was more persistent as we progressed. The water was deep blue and it was 235 feet deep. There were some swells from the north on our beam but nothing serious.
Toward evening the winds increased and we were down to a double reefed main and a reefed genoa. It was definitely warmer as we exited the Gulf Stream after about 50 miles, about 7 1/2 to 8 hours. Amazing to be crossing this river in the ocean that sailors have navigated for centuries. We made our way on a path between Great Issac Island and Hens and Chickens rocks. We then turned south on the bank, joining Nautilus’ track around Mackie shoal.
The moon stayed with us from sunset to sunrise improving our visibility greatly. It made a path of light on the clear green water behind our boat and set large and orange as the sky in the east grew light. The depth is 11-12 feet and there is a light breeze but no chop.
We continue across the bank toward Chub Cay where David will take our paperwork and documents to customs as the captain of this operation. We are hoping they will let us stay awhile.