New Adventure Looms -- You In?

Good morning everyone.

Well a new adventure looms on the horizon. It seems I can get a pretty good deal on hauling the boat in the Bahamas. Most yards here in the states don't seem to have the time to do the work. And they want a fortune to do it.

We have contacted a yard on Grand Bahama Island that a friend of mine helped build a few years back. They will be sending me a quote for hauling and painting.

So be prepared to travel. It should take about a week. and you must have a passport. The old days of just needing a driver’s license are over. The US government requires everyone to have a passport. Let me know who's interested in making the trip.

Capt. Bob

Hello all!

It's been a while since I posted a blog. I have been very busy. I am close to getting the boat hauled and some much needed bottom paint. Our open house was a great success. The turnout was tremendous. Everyone showed up. All our marina family, all my own family, most of the Moose family and some people I didn't even know who had seen the boat or followed the blog showed up.

We had so much food I didn't think it would ever get eaten. But I was wrong. We ate, drank, and chewed the fat until the wee hours of the morning. I was very surprised that no one fell getting on or off the boat. (With the exception of the blog master who took a tumble early Sunday morning getting George to his comfort station)

The girls from the Moose did a fantastic job cleaning up after the party. Vicky, Buzz, and Toni Marie, Thank you. As well as Cathy (blog master) and Renee our resident wenches. Debbie my girl Friday did a super job organizing and coordinating everyone e with what to bring and where to put it. Not to mention shopping for most of it. Gerry was at the grill all day cooking and opening wine bottles Rhonda was so busy serving and hauling trash to she never got a chance to eat. Even the Max man chipped in with hauling chairs around and other chores.

I know there are others too numerous to mention who played a big part in making it a great day. I thank you all. My fridge is filled with all kinds of desserts that I'm not supposed to eat. And today as I was contemplating the daunting task of hosing down the decks to get rid of all the sticky stuff the skies opened up and gave the boat a thorough wash down. Thank you God.

I have found out that a few people who couldn't come on the original date because of prior commitments never got the word that we moved the date. I apologize to them and will make it up to you. I received the tape that Channel10 did on our arrival. It will be on the blog soon as well as party pictures and possibly some video. A wonderful time was had by all. Again, thanks to all who participated. I love you all.

Capt. Bob

Wed. 2/something/07 late evening

I'm glad Mair got to splaine exactly what I was trying to say. She has a way with those things. The blog Master will be here. And so will George. I hope you all will attend. It should be a great day. We have a beautiful pool as well as a hot tub. Bring suit's. I hope the weather is moderate. We also have showers. Don't be shy.

Capt Bob

Well again I have misspoken

I got a lot of flack about the open house being next sunday. The Daytona 500 and the boat show had already booked that weekend. Sooooo I was forced to move it back a week. the official date is now 2/25/07. Location is 3000 NE 190 st. Aventura Fl. 33180 Slip 32 afternoon-till ?

pot luck.

I'll supply beer Wine and soda. I have a BBQ. and will be doing wings and things.

See you then.

Capt. Bob

Aventura Florida

Achievement performed its first salvage job Friday night. After our early appointment with the Channel 10 news crew, and a few meetings at M.I.A. I was dog tired. I left the office early afternoon and went home to bed. About 10 PM I got a call from Taresa, asking for a pump. There was a boat on the dock sinking. I went to Achievement and got a submersible sump pump and lugged it down the dock. Mission accomplished!

I think we are going to have an open house (or should I say open boat) next Sunday 2/18/07 in the afternoon. Give me some feedback as to what to have. I'm not too hip on that stuff. Looking to meet all the people who were following the blog.

See you all Sunday.

Captain Bob

Well we are home at last.

Well we are home at last.

Thu. 10:30 PM

We arrived home at about 3 pm today. It was really cool to have a helicopter escort us in from the ocean. Ch. 10 sent out the helicopter to film us approaching the Haulover Cut, and on up the ICW to port. They are sending a film crew out in the morning for interviews and a boat tour.

I think my last blog was from Ft. Myers. We had a dilemma in Fort Myers: the lake which was too shallow or around thru the yacht channel and the Keys. We found out that the Sanibel Island Bridge was closed to boat traffic for the next 3 days. That meant we had to back track to Boca Grande pass to get out into the Gulf, then pull another over night run to get us to Cape Sable and across Florida Bay during the day. Or try the lake route.

We had a scout in the form of a Capt. on a boat heading to the Miami Boat Show. He left the day before us and called me on the cell to let me know there was plenty of water to get across. So off we went.

We traveled to Clewiston Marina located on the rim canal and spent the night there. The next morning we set out onto the lake. It was a super day, sunny, warm, light winds. All in all a great day.

Lionel was transferring fuel to the forward tank and forgot to check the levels. Just before the east side lock the starboard engine slowly shut down. We raced to the engine room just in time for the port engine to shut down. We checked and found we only had 3 inches of fuel in the rear tank. We thought we had sucked up some junk from the bottom of the tank and were going to have to change some filters. But as we opened them one at a time we realized we had just run the tank too low. We filled each filter with fresh fuel and cranked them up. Another crisis averted.

We have really been stretching out these last few hundred miles. I remember trying to get in a hundred miles a day. Now it's 40 or 50 and let’s drop the hook.

Our run on the St. Lucia River was pleasant. We anchored in a little fork in the river. The next morning we found we had swung the stern onto a mud bank. No problem, we pulled the hook and she pushed herself off with ease. A slow motor down the ICW to Palm Beach, and a visit from Mike and Brenda, some friends of ours who live in Riviera Beach Marina. The crew went swimming for the first time. We got boarded by the coast guard. Everything was cool. We went out Ft. Worth Inlet into the Atlantic and headed for home.

We had a welcoming committee waiting for us. Flowers, Champagne, The works. We spent the rest of the afternoon showing off the boat and toasting the trip and crew.

Thanks to all who shared in this with us. Your support and comments were warmly received. We will be getting footage of the news clips and Helicopter shots. All that will be sent to the blog master for your enjoyment.

Capt. Bob

Achievement is in MIAMI!

Am talking to Dad & Bobby right now! Here's what they have to say:

Got in the afternoon about 3PM. Patrick and Victor met them at the dock. Channel 10 sent a helicopter out and shot them coming in. There's a news crew coming out tomorrow morning to do a "live bit" according to Dad.

Dad says "we're going to be world famous!"

They're at Captain's Jim's having a birthday dinner for Bobby.

Bobby says they were followed in by dolphins. Bobby also apologizes for his facial expression in the photos, but the sun was in his eyes. Nothing more.

Bobby's having a great birthday, and has enjoyed the experience. He promises more pictures and more posts to come. Don't forget, I also have a video and Dad promises to keep up the news.

Bobby and Aunt Mair are staying on the boat, but apparently Dad is going to retreat to his apartment for a well deserved rest!

New post via Ilonka

Received another email from Ilonka yesterday. Sorry for the delay in posting, but here it is...

Hi there…just spoke to Bobby again, they anchored this afternoon around 1 or 2 pm in Riviera Beach (Palm Beach) on the ICW. They plan to head on the outside tomorrow (hope to get an early start) and then head in over at Haulover. Bobby did a bit of snorkeling to check out the bottom of the boat and they have seen plenty of manatee. They’re trying to cook all food they have aboard. Hope to get in around 2 pm tomorrow. That’s it for now…talk to you later.

Cathy here again: Happy Birthday Bobby!

February 4th. – Sunday

Wow! Our time on the boat is just slipping away. We should complete the journey on Thursday the 8^th. Not sure when I’ll get to send this – wireless signal is pretty weak. We are now at Ft. Myers City Marina. The welcome here was excellent. The Dock Master was a true professional, knew how to handle the lines and made docking very easy. Now that we are winding down it is a bittersweet time. Bobby, Gerry, Rhonda and Max are joining us for the last few days of the trip. Patrick and Victor graciously gave up their quarters so Gerry could experience part of the journey. Them leaving makes it even more apparent that this wonderful adventure is about to end. Makes me a little sad. (Nah! Very sad) But we still have four or more days to go and the memories for a lifetime!

Our entrance into the marina at Clearwater was nothing less than spectacular. We ran hard aground! Certainly not anything the Captain and crew needed after pulling an overnight passage. However, Bob with is usual expertise got Achievement off and moving so in no time we were snuggled up to the dock. After having met such great people along the way, it was a disappointing welcome at Clearwater Municipal Marina. The reception made one feel as if the dock help were providing a huge favor rather than a service to a customer. Personally, I think they are used to mega yachts and was treating our Achievement as if she were not worthy. You know – some people just do not get it! I am quite sure that will not be one of Achievement’s future stops.

Despite the cool welcome and lack of help at the Marina – our visit was wonderful. Cathy (yes – our very own blog master) came to stay with us. She and George (one of the friendliest dogs and her baby) spent the night. What a great visit! She and I volunteered to hunt down fuel filters for Rita and Louise – and YES! You should send a woman to do a man’s job. The Napa store and its manager were more than helpful. The filters and other parts we needed were not in stock, but he not only found where there was a supply, but also had his drivers pick them up for us. He was another of our Angels. Kinda of cute too! I tried to get Cathy to suggest they go for coffee or something – we gave him the blog address - so if you are reading this give her a call.

Dale joined us for breakfast and brought with her some calorie free pastry (Just what our growing waistlines needed), her sunny personality and excitement over out adventure. Even with the trip winding down the up side has been visiting with wonderful family and friends now that we are closer to home.

The trip between Clearwater and Ft. Myers (where we are currently) was terrific. No mishaps, Rita, Louise and Mercedes all behaved like the wonderful ladies they are. We saw loads of porpoise, white pelicans, osprey nests with little ones and whole families. We even had sunshine and I wore shorts for the first time in over two months. Hooray! But alas! The sun was not to last. It’s been cloudy and cool, we had to change our plans – trekking the outside had to be delayed so Key West is out of the question.

Latest Update

Got word from Ilonka today because the crew is without internet access and cannot send blog entries since Patrick & Victor headed home over land. The word is that they are going the Lake Okeechobee route. They found out that the Sanibel Island bridge would not open until 7 pm tonight, they considered that route and going through the night but decided against it. The weather is windy and overcast but hope that the winds will eventually die down. They plan to do about 60 miles today, the lake is 25 miles across. If it’s going to take too long, they may decide to leave the boat at the lake until later.

Bobby says it's cold, but they are trucking along.

I have more pictures to upload, and some video I'm editing that shows the interior of the boat, as well as the crew's departure from Tampa, and I have the beginnings of a log from my time on board. So stay tuned!

Super Bowl Sunday

We are still tied up in Fort Myers. Our new crew members have arrived and are getting a feel for the boat. It has been none stop tours since we docked Friday. Every where we go we are asked if we are the crew from the big steel boat and could we take a closer look. Lionel has become the official tour guide. He has developed a rhythm that we have grown accustomed to. We can tell by the dialogue exactly where he is on the tour. "We are walking, we are walking…." Does it sound familiar?

The local art show is very nice. I am going to pick up a painting for the sun room. It's been decided that the sun room has to be painted a shade of yellow. We have seen a few accent pieces at the show that would look good in there.

There is still a chance we can get across the lake. Hull #1 of the Blue water 65 series pulled in behind us yesterday. The V.P. was on board; he is taking the boat to the Miami boat show. He came aboard and did the tour. He is going across the lake today and is going to call us with first hand readings of water depth. We have been told that with the wind out of the north, and the current rain that the level should rise. We don’t need much more then we have now, but we do need more.

Well that's about all I have for now. See you all in Miami.

Capt. Bob

Fort Myers City Yacht Basin

We had to change plans. That front that just killed so many people came through right on our heels. We got across Sarasota Bay a few hours before it hit there. We spent the night in Pine Island Sound and rethought our plans. It was out of the question to make for Key West. The seas were too high and the winds were cranking.

We decided to hole up in Fort Myers for a couple of days. Enjoy the local climate and move on when things died down. We thought about going across the lake but the water level is way too low. Our only option is to wait for calmer weather and take the yacht channel from Cape Sable across Florida Bay into Marathon and on up the ICW to Miami. It shouldn't delay our arrival any and there is an art festival in town this weekend as well as a few Super Bowl parties.

This will probably be my last entry until we get home. Pat and Victor have volunteered to give up their state room to Gerry and Rhonda so they can make the last leg of the trip. And it's their phone card we have been using to get on line.

It's been 6 weeks today since we started this trip. One more week to go. I just wish we could go on and on. Oh well. All good things must come to an end. Sooner or later.

Capt . Bob

Pine Island Sound

The hook is down in Pine Island Sound. We made 82 miles today. Not bad considering we had to buck the tide and a 20-25 knot wind all day as well as put up with some really sorry bridge tenders. I just wish there was a bridge tender school we could send them to when ever we wanted to. If they screw up it's off to remedial school. No questions asked.

We sat below the Tom Adams Bridge for a good twenty minutes calling on the radio, honking our horn (and we have a very loud horn) all to no avail. There was a marina on shore and they answered us and suggested the tender was probably down below changing a light bulb. Then when he finally answered the radio he wanted to know how much clearance we needed. Like we couldn't read the sign board on the side of the bridge. That's it off to remedial school for him!

We are hoping the wind drops off by tomorrow afternoon. We have about 20 or so miles left on the inside then we have to go out. The rest of the way to Key West is in the Gulf. It smells like dinner is almost ready. Mair has the wine open (thanks again Sha for the fine selection) I'm sipping on a Jameson. Life is good.

Capt. Bob

On The Road Again!

We are anchored on the south side of Tampa bay, at the mouth of the ICW . Anna Marie Island is off to starboard. Tomorrow we head down to Ft. Myers. It’s about 90 miles. If we don't make it all the way we'll be close.

We attracted a crowd at the marina today. Some folks from the other dock came over to ask us what movie this boat was in. And of course everyone wanted to get a picture of her. I started the engines and came out on deck and I thought there was a convention going on. The dock was loaded with people. We assembled the crew on the side deck for a group photo, then backed her out, tooted the horn a few times and slowly motored away.

It was a beautiful day and we all stayed on deck. We even had to open the windows in the wheel house for awhile to cool it down. But that didn't last long. Once we turned south the sun disappeared, the cloud cover increased and the windows went back up. We can tell we are getting more south though. The weather is definitely getting warmer.

Capt. Bob

Tampa Bay - Clearwater Stop

Good morning all.

We are tied up at Clearwater city marina. Got in yesterday afternoon. Our run across the Gulf was uneventful. With the river stretches it was 180+ miles. We did it in 4 hour shifts. Once inside the pass we were in the ICW. And, don't you know, right in front of the marina we miss a mark and run aground. We got off all right but I think I damaged the rudders. They seem a little stiff since the grounding.

The blog-master (daughter Cathy) came to the boat and visited all day and spent the night. Miss Dale is coming to breakfast. All the Fidelity boys failed to show. They must be working late.

We are leaving later this mourning instead of staying overnight again . We have reservations in Key West for Saturday night and Sunday. Bobby is joining us in Key West. We will watch the Super Bowl there then head north.

We have an appointment with channel 10 in Miami to do a photo shoot and crew interview. That should be fun.

Yes the end is near. We are stretching the conclusion out as long as we can. No one wants the trip to end. But end it must. It will take us 4 day's to get to Key West and that’s taking our time. Our trip north will be the same. We might even catch a fish.

Capt. Bob

Back logged again! The end is near…

Hard to believe this trip is almost over! Feels like we started out just yesterday. Bob said we would feel that way, the first day we left – how true!

Our anchorage last night was in Wetappa Creek. Lovely! The grass and marsh surrounding the area reminded me of the waterway in Georgia. During the wee hours of the morning, I went on deck and saw the most eerie, beautiful sight. The water was like glass, stars reflecting themselves on the surface and these wispy swirls of steam coming off the water all around the boat. At first, I thought perhaps Mercedes was steaming up and it was leaking through the hull. (Almost woke Lionel, but then thought better of it – Thank Goodness!) Come daylight the fog burned off quickly once the sun woke up. I hope that my pictures will portrait it like it was when I get them developed. I think Victor captured some of it with his digital. I’m not sure what the deal is, but here we are in Florida and the decks were covered with ice and frost. The forward deck was so slick that I was tempted (if I were younger and much more agile) to skate across it. It was a cold, but really spectacular morning!

Our trip today was so pretty. I had no idea the waterway here existed. In one area, called the “Grand Canyon” by the Tug captains, the bank is worn away by water and it does look like a miniature Grand Canyon. It has miniature buttes and crevices also a variety of colors. Further, along the way, the banks spread out into small lakes and bays. We saw a family of eagles, in fact this morning there was an eagle perched on a tree just over the boat. Along the way, we frightened a small otter that had come down to the water. As we motored by, he first ran along the tree line of the bank, trying to get away, and then attempted to climb a sheer faced bank of mud. His little legs were going as fast as they could, but he was slipping and sliding. He finally gained traction and got up and over the edge. You know his little heart had to be pounding like crazy.

We are finally in the Gulf (Actually St. George Sound) anchored off Dog Island. The island is a narrow spit of sand. Some of the wider sections have stands of trees and are dotted with a home here and there. No access by car here. Lionel tells me there is a ferry. Imagine what it would cost to build a home here with everything having to be shipped in? Not sure if their power is via generator or if there is underground cable.

We are about 40 miles from the St. Marks River entrance and another 10 to Shields Marina. Scott has planned a lunch for us when we arrive. Mark, Kirsten the boys and Donald, Brandy and the girls will also be there. After a couple days in Tallahassee, we are off to Tampa.

January 30th. – Tuesday

The sunrise off Dog Island was beautiful. There were porpoise dancing all around the boat. This is stuff fairytales are made of! Our journey across the gulf was a good one. Achievement handled like a dream, though it took us awhile to get some sea legs.

The lighthouse at St. Marks is visible for miles; the water was a deep blue and – Yep! The sun was shining and sparkling off the water. I can’t remember when I’ve seen so many porpoise. At one time, we had five of them swimming in front of our bow wake.

We followed a tug and barge up the river until we reached the bend to the Marina – lo and behold! There was our welcoming committee. They were at the dock by the old fort waving and hollering hellos. I could even hear Jaden and Kade hollering “ Grama” “PaPa” and saw their little arms just waving like crazy. Now, that sure got my heart a- pumpin’. What a welcoming site. We had a great visit, Scott and Sha invited us to their home for dinner (and it was scrumptious) – they also replenished our wine and Yingling supply. Lionel and I got to sleep in our own bed to two nights and I got to love on my twins. (Mark and Kirsten, too!)

Sunday the local Tallahassee newspaper, the Democrat, came to the boat to interview the Captain and take photos. Yesterday morning the story ran – we open the paper and here is our Captain Bob – big as life – on the first page of the local section. How neat is that? The photographer, Scott, was quite taken with Achievement. He took loads of pictures. She had lots of visitors come and admire her. Family, friends and friends of friends. Of Course the captain and crew just love showing her off.

Yesterday we spent the day getting ready to leave. We had a bon voyage committee, headed up by Scott, Sha and the boys, see us off. Achievement again tooted her wonderful train horn as she glided down the river, saying farewell and thank you. This was to be an exciting day. Her (and mine) first overnight passage in open water. The Captain laid out the course to Tampa/Clearwater and set up rotations in four-hour increments. He and Patrick took the 4PM to 8PM shift, Lionel and Victor the 8PM to Midnight and so on. I (the princess) got to sleep. The seas were perfect, though in the Gulf, even with flat calm, there is a bit of pitching and rolling. We had a ¾ moon and a zillion stars. The sun is now just rising over the horizon. We should be at the marina somewhere between 10 and noon today. I know the guys will be beat. Even though it was four on and four off, I don’t think they slept (maybe just a catnap) in the four off. Lionel and Victor are on now. Have you ever heard that it is darkest – just before dawn? Boy is that a true statement on the water. In the time between the moon setting and the sun rising it was inky black. The sky and water were pitch black with no differing between them. It was like sailing into nothing. Of course looking up there were the zillion stars. Pretty Cool!

Looking forward to seeing family and friends in Tampa and maybe getting further south to WARMER weather. (Is there any?)

Tallahassee Article

Ok folks, Scott and crew was able to get the Tallahassee Democrat (local paper) to come out and do an article.

To download a PDF of the article copied from the website, click here

To visit the story online, click here

Great job Scott. Pictures of the visit are coming, stay tuned.

Our Second Photo Shoot

A Photographer from the Democrat, a local newspaper came out to the boat this afternoon to do a photo shoot of the boat and crew. He came out at 2 pm. and was given a tour of the boat, then given free range to shoot whatever he wanted. Victor gave him the tour while the rest of us entertained Mark and his friends who all came out for the tour.

After his initial run around the boat the photographer asked if he could get some shots of me at the wheel. Weeell of course I could see why those shots were necessary. No story would be complete without some working shots of the captain, after all, let’s be serious. To my surprise he took about 25-30 shots. I guess he had a hard time finding my good side. Then I got a call from a reporter who apologized for not being there, but did an interview over the phone. I don't know when the story will run but I'm sure Scott will get us all some copies.

We spent the night at Lionel’s. A very nice place in Crawfordville. It's only about 9 miles from the marina.

Tomorrow we head for Tampa. It’s going to be our first real open water test. We are going to head strait to Tampa from Tallahassee. It's about 170 or so miles and we are going to do it in one run. We will leave after lunch and run all night to arrive during the daytime. We still don't have dockage in the area, but hope that will change tomorrow. I can't believe the one place we contacted wanted $3.00 a foot plus tax plus electric plus water. The dock we are tied up at now charges $.60 a foot no tax, water and electric included. Go figure. All the way home the most we paid was $1.00 a foot, again with everything included.

We are going to Scott’s house for dinner tonight. Then sleeping on the boat for our jump-off tomorrow. See you in Tampa.

Capt. Bob

Fri. 1/26/07

We are closing in on Tallahassee. We are staged behind Dog Island on St. George sound. About 45 m. from the Big T. Tomorrow we should get going early to make the run outside and up to St. Mark’s River mouth to catch the high tide and ride it in. They say we need high water to get into the marina.

It's a good thing we re-anchored last night. This morning we awoke and found the tide had fallen a couple of feet in the night. If we stayed put like we were going to we would still be there.

It was absolutely gorgeous this morning. We had ice on the decks; fog on the creek, the air was just barely moving. It was ghostly beautiful. We had the hook up fairly quick only to find a tree branch jammed in the fluke. It was short work for our deck crew. They had it clear in a shake and we were on our way.

We have been traveling with a couple of trawlers the last few days. Not directly with them but we are all in the same area at the same time. We have had small conversations with the different boats at different times.

One boat, '"Adventure," has passed us several times. They are doing the great circle route out of Chicago. There modus operandi is to dash from one location to the next. Never seeing what's on the banks of the waterway. They passed us yesterday and disappeared around a bend.

Today we were cruising in a canal that no one knew was even there when out of a side channel came "Adventure" balls to the wall around a corner. Never saw us at all. We called on the radio to say hello, no response. They disappeared around the bend, gone again. But not for long. We came out of the canal about an hour later into a shallow lake and...yeah you guessed it. Hard aground about 50 yards out of the channel. They called us this time wanting to know how much water we had under us. We informed them about 15 feet and did they need any help. No they had Seatow on the way. Who they know on a first name basis. We sailed on over the horizon. Later this afternoon we pulled up behind Dog island and dropped the hook. About an hour later, who comes roaring up the channel but "Adventure." I looked at Lionel and said "I guess they didn’t learn a thing this morning.” He said "those kind of boaters never do." That’s what keeps the towboat operators in business.

Happy Birthday Karen!

Capt. Bob

Calling all Hands!

Hello everyone. We are in a nice little oxbow off of Wetappa Creek on the GICW about MM 315. We put the hook down early because there is a 30 mile stretch ahead with no place to anchor. Since we are only about 100 or so miles from Tallahassee and two days to get there we have time.

This creek is not that wide and when we put the hook down the first time the wind blew the stern around onto the mud bank. We were going to leave it till morning but got to thinking if a barge came by in the night and pushed us further up on the mud we might have a tough time in the morning. Well we powered off, turned the boat to face out of the creek which is the way the wind had started to blow us in the first place. We got into deeper water, moved to the center of the creek and put her down again. There is a very slight current running out of this creek into the main channel and it took about a half hour to turn us around again. But we are safe for the night.

If anyone wishes to join the crew when we reach Key West they should post a comment on the blog. There are a few people who have expressed an interest in making the hop from K.W. to Miami. Some of the present crew has stated that they would jump ship in K.W. to make room. They live in the keys. We must know by the time we leave Tampa. Which will be in about a week. So don’t delay.

Capt. Bob

Photos from Uncle Pat

By perseverance the snail reached the ark...

I don't believe it. I got to the computer before everyone else. We are motoring east on the ICW just below Pensacola on our way to Tallahassee. We had to make a short stop to change the air filters on both engines. We were starting to blow black smoke from Rita and got an indicator light for a clogged filter so we decided to change them both. We will probably anchor early today.

At the end of this bay we start into a 20 mile canal and we don't think we can make it to the other end by dark. We need a little maintenance down below anyway.

When we started this trip everyone looked at the map and commented on how far we had to go. It was a daunting prospect. I said then that there would come a time when we would be saying "oh my we only have this much time left to enjoy this trip." Well that time has come. We are looking at the dwindling miles ahead with sinking hearts. We are glad to be getting home but sad that the adventure is coming to a close. But there will be more adventures ahead for this boat and I'm sure for this crew. They have been great, and I'd sail with them anywhere in the world.

Capt. Bob

Goodbye Alabama – Hello Florida!

This morning we crossed the state line into Florida and the panhandle. We did question why there was no sun once we crossed the line. After all, as the Captain said, “this is the sunshine state”. It was forecast to rain today – but so far just cloudy and chilly.

We had a great time in Mobile. (Thank you Jeannette and Rudy!) The entrance into Mobile Bay down the Mobile ship channel is fascinating. There were ships of all sizes, colors and configurations lining each side of the channel along with huge dry dock facilities to haul these humongous vessels up and out of the water for repair, paint and etc. We got to see oil rigs, a first for me, man are they impressive! This is a true working port. Much larger than anything we have in S. Florida.

As we made way across Mobile Bay to Dog River Marina, a fog settled in over the water. It was like traveling in a cocoon. Capt. Bob and Lionel did extremely well in finding our way – and the fog parted (sort of like Moses parting the sea) just as we came into the small, narrow channel for the marina. I know Mr. Bibber had a hand in that.

We got Achievement secure she, Rita, Louise, Mercedes – and yes, even “Annie” would get some much-deserved rest for the next couple of days. Jeannette and Rudy came for dinner. Jeannette brought us some Mardi Gras beads and beautiful fresh cut Camellias. I was not aware that Alabama has a Mardi Gras every year. I believe it runs for a month. Jeanette and Rudy have been going to the balls; there are parades and all kinds of festivals. Alabama’s Mardi Gras was an event long before New Orleans’s Mardi Gras.

Monday was our shopping day – the Captain treated us to lunch. Monday evening Jeannette and Rudy picked us up for dinner. The restaurant was on the water and a really cool place. Rudy pointed out some of the sights on our way. Dinner was excellent – but the Company was even better.

Tuesday was the infamous TV interview. Our Captain did an excellent job (he looked cute – didn’t he?) Darwin was very personable, professional, and he, just like all the others before, was quite taken with Achievement.

We left Mobile about 11 or so and anchored in Wolf Bay for the night. Sadly, Spyder could not make the trip, so we had to make the remainder of the dump cake and eat all ourselves. (Spyder, when you get to Miami to visit – the Captain can make one for you. He now – like all of us – knows how)

Cruising along the GIWW (Gulf Intercoastal Waterway) is very different from where we’ve been. We are now (first time for Achievement) in salt water. Yesterday we had porpoise leaping at the bow – I know they were excited and welcoming Achievement home. We are traveling through narrow cuts in between islands that lead to a string of bays. Along the banks is some of the whitest sand you will see. Gorgeous beaches and in some areas only a narrow strip of white sand and sand dunes between the bay and the Gulf. The sand here consists of almost entirely white quartz. Other than it still being pretty cold, the seas (even in some of the larger bays) have been easy to travel. It will be interesting to see how Achievement handles the open Gulf.

There are two sailboats traveling along behind us. Ahhh! It’s good to be home…..

Here's the link to the story

Well, Captain Bob was featured on WPMI-TV, NBC 15 in Mobile Alabama on the "Here's Darwin" series. Reporter Darwin Singleton met with the crew yesterday morning at 10:30 and put together this report. To see the story & watch the video, click on the photo at left.

It's a GREAT story. And you get to see the boat in action!

Tue. 1/23/07

We are anchored in Wolf Bay on the ICW about MM164 just east of Mobile Bay. our TV moment went well. Darwin was a real gentleman . He showed up this morning with his camera man Mike. We chatted a little on the dock. He seemed genuinely interested in the boat and its history. We showed him around the boat, from stem to stern. Mair even got a shot of him looking out the transom door. He wanted to take some shots of us untying the lines and shoving off. Then they raced onto the bridge and got some shots of us approaching and then going away into the open bay.

It was a little brisk in the morning but by the time we left it was shirt sleeve weather. That didn't last long. The wind picked up out of the north and the bay got a little Rollie.

We made our planned run for the day. Got the hook down right at sundown Pat made veggie pasta for dinner and tomorrow we start our run for Tallahassee.

Capt Bob

Achievement in the News

Well, the interview went off great this morning by all reports. I spoke to the reporter, Darwin Singleton, after the interview and he was very impressed with Achievement Alpha, the crew and Captain Bob! Reports from the crew also say it was a great interview.

The segment will be two minutes and air tonight at 5:00 pm. You may be able to watch the segment at www.nbc15online.com. Search for the "Here's Darwin" feature and it should be posted there in the next day or two.

I'm also expecting a copy of it for posterity and when I do I'll post it as well. We're going to try and get some play again in Tampa when the boat reaches this market, so cross your fingers and say a prayer that there will be interest.

Monday, January 22, 2007

Just got back from dinner with Jeanette and her husband Rudy. They took us to a very nice seafood place on the causeway. Every one is stuffed. We had a slow day today. Did a little shopping . Picked up a link for our anchor chain. I'm sure you have already heard about us loosing an anchor in Bashi creek. It was a big sucker too, about 100# or so. The crew grabbed the wrong piece of line to secure it with and when we tried to retrieve it the line snapped. I got a little leg whipping from the recoil but nothing serious.

Our photo shoot is set for tomorrow morning at 10:30. We might all be movie stars by the time we get this boat to Miami. We plan to jump off soon after the interview. It's 300 plus miles to Tallahassee and the St Marks River. It will take us about 4 days weather permitting to get there. Scott, you should look for us around Saturday. We'll call with progress reports.

It looks like every one has retired for the evening. It seems like that’s the only time I get to use the computer, when every one else is asleep. Oh well not much else to report anyway.

Capt. Bob

My log - Sunday

Good Morning! Today started with my being awakened by lightening (or at least that was my first thought). Yep! It was another tug shining its spotlight on us. This time when I looked out the window all I could see was the shoreline. We were anchored in Three Rivers Lake, off the river – I am guessing they could see our stern from the river and shined a light to check us out. Never saw them, but felt the wake as they went by.

Today being Sunday (Pancake Day), Lionel was rousted out of his bunk by the same light, made us sausage and pancakes for breakfast. We were on our way by 8:00AM. I was below and missed “Annie” being hurled into daylight, but it appears she came up without mishap.

The sun is gone again (darn it!) and we have our usual weather of overcast skies, but o quite as cold. However the sunrise this morning was nice – No – Not Red Skies – Just Pink. I am sure that makes a difference. So no sailor warnings today – maybe just caution?

Today the river has no contrast. It really is starkly beautiful (if that makes sense?). The water is once again that coffee and cream color, the banks pretty much the same color as the water, the trees have no green – just bare limbs that are grey and brown, the sky is grey as well. It is sort of like looking at the world in black and white. Very interesting looking and not at all what we are used to. Occasionally there will be (what appears to be) a fish camp. Most are little more than shacks. Victor said they reminded him of the move “Deliverance”. There are some Sandy (mud-sand?) beaches and areas where there are small hills along the bank, you can see how the river, perhaps during floods have carved away at the sides. Where the banks are level to the water, they slowly incline up and away from the river, the bottoms of the trees, which come right to the water, are dark with watermarks from high water. It looks like the trees in Florida after a brush fire – when the trunks are black and scorched. This is not quite as dark but goes fairly high up the trunks.

I saw an otter yesterday and another bald eagle. We are now about 40 miles from Mobile – still pretty desolate. Just a while ago, we passed where the Alabama River joins the Tombigbee – the two combine and make up the Mobile River. We’ve said farewell to the Tombigbee.

Guess What? We made a dump cake last night. I say we, because it was a collective effort. All five of us had a hand in it. If you have ever made dump cake (Sha – I know you have; and the guys kept referring to how Aunt Anita would do it) you know how easy it is. I didn’t till last night. Anyway we had big discussions about the pan to use, how much mix, how much butter, where to place the butter, how much fruit and how long to bake. With all those important decisions made, we popped it in the oven and had the best chocolate, cherry dump cake ever. Ahh! The simple pleasures of living on board. It was the highlight of our day. Even the oven got in the spirit of things and cooperated fairly well.

I think Spyder – the Captains childhood long time friend - will be joining us in Mobile to either finish the trip with us or at least travel part way. We are saving the rest of our dump cake ingredients for when he comes on board. Oh, Yes! Last night there was even song to the effect of “We knew you were coming –so we baked a cake!” Oh, Spyder you are in for a treat! Ya think we’ve been on this boat for too long?

When we get back and you see the Captain – you must get him to sing his state songs. He (so far) has made up a line or two for every state we’ve gone through – be sure to get him to add his hand action!

Hopefully we will get to see cousin Jeanette while in Mobile. It should be a busy and exciting few days. Then we are off into the Gulf of Mexico and to the Pan Handle of Florida. (Maybe some sun?????

January 20 – Saturday

Bashi Creek was our anchorage for last night. It is a very deep, but narrow creek sporting a boat ramp. A really nice couple we met at Demopolis Marina, Homer and Goldie, on board their 33-foot Morgan Out Island sailboat, are headed for Port St. Joe in the panhandle, and have made this leg of the trip before. They were kind enough to suggest the creek, in fact followed us in and tied up for the night. We visited over a cocktail and I gave them the tour. My first – usually one of the guys get to do the bragging and showing off. I enjoyed the opportunity. Every time I start to explain to someone about the boat, I get excited all over again. She is just so neat.

It took a little bit of time to get Achievement settled in the creek – the current kept kicking her butt towards the ramp side of the creek. The Capt. decided a stern anchor would solve the problem. The anchor (not sure where it was hiding) was brought into service – tied off with yellow rope (Lionel said he thought Bud was on board and it was ski rope) and deployed overboard. Victor got her secured to the humongous cleat. Sure enough, Achievement settled right down. She rode comfortably all night.

Next morning the crews concern was “How do we hoist this anchor up?” The Captain had a solution for that too. After Locomotive Breath (named after a song) untied and went on her way, the people proceeded to get the anchor up. Every day “Annie” has a different surprise for us – well her friend at the stern was no exception. Seems the anchor was buried in the mud! The line pulled so taught that it snapped. I missed the excitement (darn it) but we bid a farewell to the anchor. Victor had a near miss when the line snapped and the Captain was slapped across the legs – no injury thank goodness!

We conquered our last lock on our journey today at Coffeeville. Today the sun has been in and out and though chilly, it is a nice day. The section is very desolate. The only marina between Demopolis and Mobile Bay is Bobby’s Fish Camp. We passed it a while back. It consists of one dock with a gas pump in the center. The cruising guide said it was rustic – and they weren’t kidding.

We will be in Mobile, AL by tomorrow – earlier that we expected. I understand Cathy has spoken to a TV station in Mobile that wants to cover the story of Achievement’s history and journey. How exciting. After sitting and waiting to be rescued for all these years, she is now going to be a TV star. She deserves it!

Fri. 1/19/07

We have left the marina in Demopolis and made our way down river to MM 145 on the Black Warrior River. We are tucked into a little creek called Bashi creek. We pulled in and it’s just a little wider than the boat but its 100’ deep. We had to deploy our stern anchor for the first time. We locked thru the Demopolis lock with 3 other boats, a sport fish that took off and left us in the


dust. And a 53 Hatteras which we left in the dust. We caught up with a 33 out island sailboat that left the marina about 3 hours before us. They are tied up to our starboard side and are having a drink with us. We do our last lock tomorrow. It’s about 30 miles down river. If we get in a good day’s run we should be in Mobile on Sunday. Pat fixed some green Chili and pork for dinner.

Achievement Alpha in the News

Some may be wondering about Debbie's comment. Looks like we've successfully interested the media in Mobile. On Tuesday at 10:30 a reporter from NBC 15, Mobile will be out to interview the crew. I'll try and get a clip and post it on my website for all to see. Stay tuned. This is an incredible story, and it's great that the media is starting to take notice. Bobby, there may be a movie in here yet! Be ready to star! I'm sure Dad couldn't think of anyone better to play his part. Vanity dictates it would be someone your age! Love you Dad!

January 19 – Friday

I just saw a big, fat owl perched in a tree on the bank! We are underway on the Tombigbee River about 170 miles from Mobile. No, it isn’t any warmer, the cold and rain caught up with us a few days ago – but at least the sun is out today.

Yesterday was a good day. Lionel and Bob were going to spruce up the girls, Rita, Louise and Mercedes. They needed oil changes and some other stuff. Pat and Victor went to the grocery store and I visited downtown Demopolis. The guys dropped me off on the way – however, it is in walking distance of the Marina. Downtown consists of two streets, about three blocks long, at the center, a park with pond and fountain. Even this time of the year there were some lillies (is there any such thing as winter lillies?) pansies and what looks like ornamental cabbage in bloom. Quite pretty even though it was (as usual) cloudy and sprinkling.

Temperature wasn’t too bad – about mid-50’s I think. It was enjoyable to window shop – I did go in every place that was open – so I guess window-shopping means “just looking”. Everyone was very nice and I got to chat with all of them. At the post office when I asked for directions – the gal pulled out a telephone book – I thought the phone books in Key Largo and Crawfordville were small – this was teeny tiny. Anyway, she gave me instruction. My destination was the Bluff House, a historical antebellum home on the river. I walked the grounds of the old home that eventually winds down to the river. Here the river has what some refer to as the white bluffs. They are probably 15 – 20 feet or so in height, white and line the bank of the river. They are, actually limestone. In the gift shop at the house, I found that the bluffs used to be 40 or so feet higher. In 1953 with the advent of the dam, the water level rose about 40 feet covering most of the bluff.

I treated myself to lunch at the Napoleons Café in the historical Demopolis Inn. Great potato soup and ½ fresh chicken salad sandwich. Pat and Vic picked me up on the way back to the Marina. Definitely a nice few hours.

Our return found the Captain visiting with another cruiser who is wintering here. Pete has lived and traveled for the past 10 years on a 40’ Marine Trader Trawler. He had Bob bring his laptop to his boat so they could download some navigational program that will interface with the GPS. I understand Bob provided a tour of Achievement to Pete and another Captain while we were gone. Needless to say, the planned pampering for the girls didn’t get done. Last evening we all piled in the Marina’s courtesy car and drove to the Red Barn restaurant. It is actually and old barn made into a restaurant. A uniquely different place to dine. Food was good, but the company was better.

Lionel and I jumped ship and opted for a motel room for the night. Sure was nice after sleeping in separate cabins. All and all the stop provided some needed down time for the captain and crew.

This AM (our usually early start) Lionel and I got back on board about 7:00 AM – Yep! Everyone was asleep. I banged on doors and got some mumbled “good mornings”. Lionel (for the second time in his life) has vertigo and is really feeling terrible. Bob, Pat and Victor tended to the girls needs, while I did a couple loads of laundry. Finally off the dock about 10:00AM. For the first time we went through a lock with two other pleasure boaters. The Demopolis Lock was our next to last lock, the last being at Coffeeville 100 some odd miles away.

The river is (an unmolested Tombigbee) wider here with water carved banks of what appears to be clay. Some boat ramps and creeks here and there. More barge traffic than we’ve seen in a while, but no homes or civilizations on this stretch. We have no phone or internet signal and I’m guessing we probably won’t till tomorrow some time.

In spite of our not so early days and mishaps, we are making pretty good time. We expect to be in Mobile Sunday or Monday. Guess the Capt. is correct and we will be home by the end of the month……

Demopolis Yacht Basin

Not much happened today. Pat and Victor went shopping with Mair. Lionel and I stayed on the boat and were supposed to change the oil in all the engines but got caught up in other things and never got it done. It will have to wait for Mobile.

I met some very nice people in the marina. Gave a few tours of the boat. Chatted with a very nice gentleman named Pete Andrews. He was loaded with local knowledge as well as some neat electronic charts which he was more then happy to let me use.

I wish all who follow this Blog will feel free to post comments – we look forward to hearing from each and every one of you! And suggestions are welcome as well. Anything will do. Even a place to drop the hook, (Lord knows we need those). Tomorrow looks like jump off day. We hear the river from here on down to Mobile is very desolate but also very beautiful. More to follow.

Capt Bob

Goodbye Mississippi – Hello Alabama!

January 16th and 17th. Tuesday and Wednesday

Oh, Yes! Everyday is an adventure. After our anchoring for the night adventure (Bob makes it all sound so easy – we did run aground three times – the anchor was down and up again – pitch black – do we know where we are? Nah! – but we are close! Sure gets my heart a pumpin’.) The Capt. and the crew (guys) just sort of take it all in stride. I’m thinking it’s a male thing! However must admit they are right. The hook was dropped – we stopped and slept without incident until early AM when Mercedes quit. I know she has worked her heart and soul out – but the Captain did call her a “Temperamental Bitch” and I think her feelings were hurt. As the Capt. said, we did get an early start.

While he and Lionel were making her (Mercedes) feel better, I saw the lights from a Tug out my window and knew he was headed right for us. I ran to the engine room – asked if we had anchor lights on; the Capt. confirmed we did, I proceeded to run to the cabin door just in case I had to jump overboard when the tug hit. Afterwards I heard complaints that “Sure, you were just going to leave us down (in the engine room) there”. Hey! What’s a girl to do? I did say a tug looked like it was headed for us and then asked if the lights were on. No excitement on their part – only mine. As usual, I over reacted. Will I again? You’re damn right!

Of course more excitement was in store – after our (in my mind) near being crashed into miss-Two Ton Annie decided the boulders, clay and trees were not enough – she now had to keep company with a huge, long cable. Golly, it is amazing how Bob, Lionel, Pat and Victor just keep on truckin. What ever is thrown their way – they deal with it and move on. Sort of like life - lessons to be learned here! We did pass over the State Line to Alabama. The way the line runs, at one time Achievement was in both states at one time.

Our anchorage last night was well before sunset – in the “Old” Tombigee River. Nice, safe and quiet place. We had an early dinner of ribs and by 6:30PM, everyone was ready for bed – by 9:00 everyone was sound asleep.

Today on the water was sort of ordinary; although it may have been the mind set. It was cold and no matter how many times I tried to get my butt outside for the view – Brrr! Just couldn’t do it. Back inside – so other than looking out on occasion from the space-heated warmth of the “sun room” the day was spent indoors.

We got to Demopolis, AL about 1:00PM today – much quicker than I anticipated. Currently we are tied up to a dock at Demopolis Marina. I got to see TV today for the first time since Dec. 23rd in the boaters lounge. My choices were; first weather, second Dr. Phil - guess what? I really don’t miss it.

Achievement, as usual, commands a lot of attention. On our way here the last lock tender expressed big interest as well as a couple from Coco Beach that are here, at the marina. on their trawler. They came over to the boat for a tour. Most question, “What kind is it?” then are intrigued with her history. We have all become very smitten with her and jump at the chance to explain her enchanting past.

Bob, Lionel and I had dinner at the marina restaurant. Pat and Victor decided to stay on board and keep an eye on things. (I’m sure the warmth of the boat and having some quiet time were big deciding factors) Tomorrow we are off to town for groceries and supplies so we will be ready to leave early Friday AM. We have conquered the Tenn-Tom Waterway and Friday will be on the Tombigee River to Mobile. The next 200+ miles are pretty desolate. Not sure if we will have phone or internet signal.

Next marina stop – Mobile, Alabama. We are guessing by Monday (I’m thinking Tuesday). The saga continues….