We started out today knowing that we were going to have some delays. There was a USCG Rescue Training Mission closing the ICW near Swansboro. We called and got some information which allowed us to do some planning. They would be taking a lunch break at 1300, at which time we could pass. We arrived around 1250 and spoke to a USCG auxiliary boat patrolling who confirmed what we were told. At that point there were 7 boats waiting so we al milled around. Helicopters with men hanging on ropes were visible with binoculars and several helicopters were circling. Even though this delayed us it is important for them to practice.
We arrived after hours at Homer Smith's but easily docked at the T head. The docks are all nice new floating docks and they are building a new dock office. Currently the bathrooms and laundry are in an older building. They have two courtesy cars which we used to provision.
The marina is a short walk in to town which ha a maritime museum, shops and restaurants. Izzy and I walked though the residential streets admiring the older homes. They also have plaques on the houses stating the year they were constructed. The oldest home here dates back to 1709. By the waterfront there are homes that were built by the ship captains and used ship latch so the nails wouldn't rust.
We took a tour on a double decker bus that lasted an hour and told us about the historical sites. After the tour we all went to a restaurant for "linner". Lisa and Kevin from Skafos, Chris, Mary and Skipper from Cashelmara, Jack and JoAnn from Jackpot, us and Lisa and Chris from Taylor'd for 2 enjoyed a meal at Black Sheep. We tried to eat at The Dock House but they could not accommodate all of us even if we split up.
The men enjoyed ice cream as the women shopped.
We found the municipal marina right down town and also an anchorage that was right in front of the municipal marina. These are also good places to stop. We were also advised that the Moorehead City Municipal marina is a good stop. Maybe we will try it on the way back down to FL.
A nice sunset from the beach near the marina.
Unfortunately a dead ray washed up on the beach.