Saturday, November 28, 2009

Palm Cove Marina, Jacksonville, FL


Palm Cove Marina, Jacksonville, FL  20091127
The trip down from St. Mary’s was uneventful, except for some scary shallow water in the ICW channel.
On the way, I contemplated accomplishments and opportunities to improve;
1)       I have been very happy with my 25# Delta anchor & 150’ of 3/8” chain.  Easy to set, holds like a death grip and easy to retrieve.  Cat has become adept at handling the boat as I haul in the heavy chain.  We have found that slow, consistent and thoughtful movements are best.
2)      The wind generator spins constantly, charging the second battery bank.  It is relatively quiet and works well.  I did not, however, create a way to get the power from batteries 3&4 powered by the wind generator to batteries 1&2, used to start the engine and for house power.  I have jury rigged something, but will do a more permanent solution when possible.
3)      The composting head has worked well.  Manufactured under the “Nature’s Calling” brand, separates the solid and liquid wastes.  I empty the liquids overboard every other day or so.  The solids are collected and with an external handle, are agitated after each use and each morning and evening.  No holding tanks or pump outs.  Very little odor.  Think of us each day “Stirring the Stuff” as we proceed south.
4)      The Britta Filter Pitcher removes all traces of metallic taste from the tank water supply.  I cannot tell the difference between bottled water and filtered water.  We use this for tea, oatmeal, washing dishes, etc.  Works great.
5)      Foul weather jackets are used every day, all day.  With a fleece underneath, these keep the wind away and us warm and dry.
6)      5 mile wifi – This little piece of technical magic is great.  Even in locations with poor wifi connections, I can run the antenna up the flag halyard and pull in 15 or more networks.  I get increased transfer speeds when surfing the web.
7)      Walter’s Dodger and bimini are just superb.  Well made and good looking.  The block the wind and spray to keep us more comfortable.  Well done Walter.
8)      More to come…

Unusual definitions aboard “Angel”:
1)       Hot Bath = take 2 washcloths to the head.  Wet each with 2-3 pumps of fresh water and squeeze to remove excess.  Place washcloths onto propane heater chimney and allow to warm.  You must keep your wits about you.  If you become distracted and overheat your washcloths, when you apply them to body parts, it is as if you have those areas steam cleaned.
2)      Port and Starboard = As with her hands and feet, Cat has a hard time with Port and Starboard or Left or Right.  She has learned that Port is the “Red” side and Starboard is the “Green” Side of the boat.  We steer to red or green to adjust coarse.

We will be heading out early to get to St. Augustine for a long visit to see the city.

Jim & Cathy

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