4 AM departure from NYC, moon over Manhattan
As we headed out of New York Harbor before dawn, looking back at the lights of the buildings made it too difficult to focus our eyes on the course ahead. We were so fixated on dodged tankers and floating debris in the darkness we forgot to have ourselves a sentimental moment, but given how little I care for sailing a Whitby 42 in the harbor, it was a pretty fitting way to close that chapter and begin another.
Sunrise, near Sandy Hook, NJ
The sun started to rise as we cleared the channel into the ocean. The boat suddenly started rolling with six foot swells, and I experienced sea sickness for the first time since my elementary school’s whale watching trip. While not totally debilitating, it made everything, from using the bathroom to handling sails, ten times more laborious. Brian was completely unaffected, I wish I could say the same for poor Nico.
Brian, swaying back and forth to demonstrate the swells
Me, debilitated by sea-sickness
Bird, hitching a ride
At anchor in Atlantic City
After fourteen hours of motor-sailing (that’s what we do when there’s too little wind and we want to get somewhere faster – put the sails up and turn the motor on), we made it to the anchorage at Brigantine Beach, just as the Atlantic City casinos lit up behind us. We set our Rocna anchor and fired up the boat grill to feast on vegetables, sausage, and bread I’d baked the night before. Tomorrow we’ll be rounding Cape May, and (as long as we time ourselves to be with the current) we hope to anchor at the top of the Delaware River for the night. (Travel: 10/7/15)
Where are we now?
The sea sickness will get better as you gain your sea legs. When we started cruising four years ago I always used to be sick if it was rough the first two or three days after being ashore too long. Now I don’t have too much trouble as long as I’m a bit careful for those first few days. Cheers and enjoy the adventure on your Whitby. We love ours.
Thanks for the encouraging words Rob! I think this was a “perfect storm” situation – grey morning, early start on empty stomach, etc. but I’m glad to hear I’m not the only one! We’re loving the Whitby.
You made it to Atlantic City! We’ve been waiting to hear how your first day went. Sorry about the seasickness. The scopolamine patch really helped me and might be worth a try if you can get an rx. Hope poor Nico’s on the mend too!
Yes! We’re happy to be making great time, but I’ll be relieved when we’re in Annapolis, which is the last place we’ll be rushing to for a while. We miss you guys!
Sent you an email with a link to the relief band….a must for seas sickness…. Nothing’s worst!
Thanks Andrew! I considered getting one for our BVI trip, but never had an issue. Will reconsider now.