ON WET PAINT

Boats are work!

2012-01-23T11:41:00.000-05:00

They call houses money pits! Boats are big gashes in the side of the hull with money flowing out all the time. Because we live in the northeast and the boating season (for us anyways) is April through November, boats need to come out of the water and be stored. Winterizing a boat carries costs: Hauling (and launching) and powerwashing the boat, winterizing the engines, winterizing all the water and boat systems, storing the boat, painting the bottom and all the other little maintenance type items. This is also the time that we put a good coat of polish on the boat. With a honey doooo list in hand for the boat and house, the projects for the winter are being crossed off slowly. It is always nice to be on the island of Cape Cod.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

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The boot stripe needs to be "touched up" with additional striping
Not from a docking boo boo! It usually comes off from the
powerwashing.

All the zincs need to be re-placed. This zinc is located on
the trim tab. Why are zinc's used? Any time you have two
different metals that are physically or electrically
connected and immersed in seawater, they become a battery.

The horizontal joint needs to be re-caulked. The existing caulk has been
removed and the joint cleaned. Maintaining caulked joints will decrease
the chance of water infiltration.

Two (2) snaps need to be re-placed. Every year 1-3 snaps need attention.

The canvas snap which attaches to the hard top needs to be re-placed.

Wet Paint tucked away in the building. The bottom is painted and ready
to go. A good coat of polish to the boat in the spring will protect
the gel coat and make her look brand new.

I wash all the lines and add cups of fabric softener. We like our lines to be
clean and soft for easy handling.

The dock is out and the air and water are winter cold. I love the cape
this time of the year, except for the cold.

The sea grass is dormant and the house looks (was) cold. There is still
nothing like taking a little time to sit on the deck and just "chill"
for a bit.

Hallie on the deck is not happy she can not come down on the beach. She
watches me as I walk down the walk to the beach.

Okay Dad, can we play now?

Wet Paint & Just Cruising 2011

2012-01-16T00:55:00.000-05:00

Summer 2011 is now long gone we we start to look forward to the summer of 2012. The next boating activity's to get us through the winter will be the Boston Boat Show and the Miami Boat Show. Once we return from Miami, the mindset is geared towards getting the boat ready, commissioned and launched mid April. This video is video that was shot aboard Wet Paint during the summer of 2011. Welcome aboard, sit back and relax and enjoy the ride.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

To View in HD, Click Searay 36 Sedan Bridge Cruising

The Windy City: Day Two (by night)

2012-01-01T11:37:00.000-05:00

After a great day seeing Chicago and just some of the sites, the sun went down and now it was time to hit the town. We had reservations at the "Signature Room" on the 98th floor(http://www.signatureroom.com) of the John Hancock Tower. What a view overlooking the city. After a wonderful dinner, we grabbed a horse drawn carriage and took a one hour tour of the city. We stopped at the liquor store and grabbed some bubbly to keep us warm. The neighborhoods outside of the city reminded me of Beacon Hill and Charlestown in Boston, just beautiful. Just a great end to a great night and mini vacation. Thanks again Cynthia!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

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The hotel was beautiful and in the heart of Chicago.

The entrance to the hotel. A little snow would have made
it a perfect wonderland.

The Signature Room a top the John Hancock Tower on
floor 98.

The famous ferris wheel at the Navy Pier. It was too
bad it was closed.

Cindy said I am such a huggable guy. Bears, Lions, Tigers
and me are huggable....WOW!

In order to get a window table, I said we were celebrating our
one year anniversary and we got engaged there three (3)
years ago. They surprised us with a free dessert.

Cruising the streets of Chicago in the horse drawn carriage. A
tad cold at the beginning.

A chick that drinks out of a bottle. Kewl and sexy!!

A guy that drinks out of a bottle. Not
so kewl and sexy!!

Bud, not Budweiser, not Air Bud, not Buddy...Just Bud. He
was a trooper taking us for a one hour ride through the back
roads of Chicago.

One last look from our table looking out at the Trump Tower.

The Windy City: Day 2 (by day)

2011-12-30T23:01:00.001-05:00

I apologize to Chicago for thinking it was just another dark and dirty city like Boston or New York. Chicago is probably the nicest and cleanest city I have been to. We played tourist today and walked what is called the "magnificent mile" shopping district down to Millennium Park.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Yes I was impressed with the bathroom mirror that had a
television in it. Way to go Corning!

We would take this form of transportation to see the city late
night after dinner.

Elysian Hotel looking up.

The Cloud Gate or "The Bean" in Millennium Park. This sculpture
is made of polished stainless steel which reflects the city of
Chicago sky scape.

Cindy just fitting right into "playing tourist". She did a great
job showing me the city in one day. Thanks!!

The park also has a beautiful skating rink as you see the Zamboni
cleaning the ice. Chicago gets it!

So much to see, but so little time.

Because I am a goof, I made Cindy take a picture with me and
wave into "The Bean". Our reflection.

For those that want to skate, the park is the place to do it.

Michigan Avenue or "Magnificent Mile".

The Windy City: Day One

2011-12-29T14:31:00.000-05:00

I have never been to Chicago and the Windy City and when my friend Cindy invited me, I jumped at the opportunity to visit. Although this would be only a two (2) day trip, day one was awesome. The hotel is beautiful and the company perfect.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

I told the flight crew our plane had a bent wing, but they
said, "don't worry mon, no problem mon, aerodynamics mon"!

A beautiful bedroom with all the amenities. The Hotel Elysian
(http://elysianhotels.com/) was beautiful.

The view off the balcony looking down on the shopping district.

The living room with fireplace made the room cozy to curl up
with a book and glass of wine.

My beautiful tour guide and a great meal at 9 Steakhouse
( http://n9ne.com/) in Chicago.

I just wanted to say hello to everyone and thank them for having
me in their outstanding restaurant. Not really, I just do this
stupid pose wherever I go.

When my tour guide told me we were going to the Pump Room
late night drinks, I got really excited and was not disappointed.

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T08:36:00.000-05:00

From our family to your family, Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year!

The first time in many years without snow! It was just not a
white Christmas!!

One of my favorite quotes (re-post from 2009)............

"I've always wanted to sail to the south seas, but I can't afford it." What these men can't afford is not to go. They are enmeshed in the cancerous discipline of security. And in the worship of security we fling our lives beneath the wheels of routine - and before we know it our lives are gone. What does a man need - really need? A few pounds of food each day, heat and shelter, six feet to lie down in - and some form of working activity that will yield a sense of accomplishment. That's all - in the material sense, and we know it. But we are brainwashed by our economic system until we end up in a tomb beneath a pyramid of time payments, mortgages, preposterous gadgetry, playthings that divert our attention for the sheer idiocy of the charade. The years thunder by, The dreams of youth grow dim where they lie caked in dust on the shelves of patience. Before we know it, the tomb is sealed. Where, then, lies the answer? In choice. Which shall it be: bankruptcy of purse or bankruptcy of life?-from

Voyager by Sterling Hayden

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

I Lost My Virginity Tonight!

2011-11-23T22:50:00.000-05:00

I finally crossed over into the world of Apple! My old seven (7) year HP lap top served me well, but it was time to join the Apple Products Cult!!

Here is my first video produced in I Movie.......

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

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Summer of 2011 Boating

2011-11-22T11:18:00.000-05:00

We always say in September how fast and short the boating season is in the Northeast. Although we always launch the boat in April and take her out in November, it is just not enough time. 2011 was not the year for long journeys due to work. Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard (Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, Menemsha and Lake Tashmoo), Cuttyhunk and Tarpaulin Cove were our destinations. We took many day trips to both the Vineyard and Nantucket with family and guests. With being in the BVI's sailing in October and Jonathon in a Hockey Showcase in November, we pulled the boat early in mid October. Unfortunately for us, we had some great late fall cruising days that we could not take advantage of. Until next summer and 145 days until the boat is commissioned.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on YouTube Icon to Watch in HD

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

Sunsets of 2011 Aboard Wet Paint

2011-11-15T22:13:00.000-05:00

One of the pleasures of cruising are the changing sunsets while anchored, on a mooring or at a dock in a special port of call. A glass of wine, some cheese and good company and you have your own drive in theater from your boats cockpit.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

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BVI Sailing Trip 2011: Final Video

2011-11-07T11:56:00.000-05:00

The final video of our sailing trips is finished. Uploading a video to You Tube takes forever! I got knocked off line three times in Minnesota and had to start the process over and over. I hope you enjoyed living the trip vicariously through the three (3) meat heads. If you have any questions or comments on the trip or how to make the blog better, please let me know.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

To watch in HD, CLICK on the YouTube icon.

British Virgin Islands 2011 Video

2011-11-04T14:38:00.000-04:00

Since I had to sit at Logan Airport for 7 hours due to a plane mechanical issue (thats 22 hours in an airport this week due to plane problems) on route to Minnesota, it gave me a chance to put all the pictures to video. I will put all my video to video next to complete our trip. Enjoy the video and the trip aboard Varekai!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

To watch in HD, CLICK on the YouTube icon.

BVI's Sailing Trip: DAY 10

2011-11-02T10:25:00.000-04:00

As most of you now know or can assume by now I have no pictures of Day 10. My camera took me swimming last night. We left Jost Van Dyk and headed over to Soper's Hole and Soper's Hole Marina for our last night. Although there was almost a full mutiny on the ship when leaving Jost, the captain won out. We needed to have a shorter passage in the morning in order to check off the boat and make our flights. I also needed to heal my body! We had a good meal as Pussers and watched the Cardinals win the world series. We had a nice trip back to the TMM charter base in Tortola and sadly checked off the boat and headed to the airport. In San Jaun our flight was cancelled and we were re-booked for Sunday and put up at a hotel (Jet Blue was great) due to a mechanical problem with the plane. Sunday we took off and landed back to a 32 degree Boston! I hate winters!!

For those of you following our journey, Thank you! I will be adding two (2) videos to close out this thread. One (1) will be all the video wrapped into a video and one (1) will be all the pictures made into a video. I am off to Minnesota for the weekend to see Jono and watch him in a hockey tournament so I will put the videos together this weekend.

To Michael and Marc.......Thanks! We had many, many laughs and you guys made the trip special. Cruising is about the people you are with and the people you meet. We certainly met some characters, but none more special than you Marc!!!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

Surfing in the rip at Cane Garden Bay

Nice view for the inmates at the Tortola jail.

Little Dix Bay

A great sunset and no two were a like all week.

Every mans fear to be called minute man.

The sailboat passing as the sun sets.

Just enjoying a drink with my feet up and enjoying the view.

The blue water is soooo clear and beautiful.

Looking down at the boats anchored from the top of Peter Island.

BVI's Sailing Trip: DAY 9 Guest Blog Post

2011-10-31T09:07:00.000-04:00

Today we left Cane Garden Bay and headed over to St. John's Cinnamon Bay where we became illegal immigrants for a few hours. From there we headed over to Great Harbor on Jost Van Dyk and the world famous "Foxy's Bar".

Mike and Marc wanted to do a guest blog post so with my bad night last night and my even worse morning, I thought today was a great day. I also promised I would not edit one word of it. I am sure I will be their topic and butt of their jokes. Kick a man when he is down! Yes I did missed the dinghy and landed into the water getting off the dock at Foxy's with my new camera. The camera is obviously gone, but I did get some pictures off the card from the night!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

Marc Said......

It is nice to say we had a "Hangover Moment" in Jost. Foxy, a local celebrity welcomed us on the dingy dock with his guitar. At dinner, Joe, our waiter/bartender picked up that we were lonely. To young hot ladies from Cali entered the bar, Joe made a proposition: "if you sit with those guys they will buy you a drink". With Foxy's magic, one drink turned into several and an offer to get into their car and head to the Soggy Dollar (which was closed). Picture three guys each over 200lbs sitting in the back of a car no larger than a smart car. Ended up in White Bay shuffling our feet so the sting rays do not get spooked. We are allowed to write this segment since John physically was with us but mentally was blacked out. After a nice swim and a long talk...we proceeded to watch John enter the water and disappear into the depths around midnight. Once found and concerned on John's well being we were driven back to Great Bay to watch St. Louis come back and beat Texas. John was toast so I took him in the dingy which he proceeded to walk from the dingy dock straight into the dingy and continued to walk right over the side. After help from Joe, the bartender, we got the beached whale into the dingy, motored out to Varekai where John decided that he would get off the dingy before docking. Mike who eventually came out took over babysitting, I took off back to Foxy's so Mike has the continuation.....

Mike Said......

Michael here....to continue, john got back on the boat, took a shower, was walking down to his cabin and fell down the stairs. screaming in pain and laughing about his shoulder, knee and head. needless to say that john didn't have a pleasant "next morning." riddled in pain and a severe hangover, john destroyed his camera, his shoulder, his head and his ego......other than that, our trip has been outstanding, great snorkeling, great sailing, great meals, great views and alot of laughs.......not to mention skinny dipping with a girl that looked like she was right out of the pages of Playboy Magazine. i just want to graciously thank John and Marc for a fabulous time and alot of laughs. can't wait to do it again.

CLICK on PICTURES to ENLARGE

Cinnamon Bay on St. John. One of the best days of snorkeling.
We stopped off here for a few hours before heading over to Jost.

Mike setting the jib to ensure we got the most from her. Most days
we had a nice 15 to 20 knot breeze.

Most people have heard about Brokeback Mountain...Here is
Boobeyback Mountain.

Entering Great Harbor on Jost Van Dyk.

For visual purposes, this is Foxy's dinghy dock.

We found Marc a new boat.

Mike and Marc enjoying the hammock together before starting
happy hour.

Is this really Foxy himself?

What is said or done on Jost, stays on Jost.

Mike and Joe before heading back to the boat.

Marc thought he was funny. This was the last picture taken
from my camera. All other evidence is now gone.

BVI's Sailing Trip: Video

2011-10-30T07:47:00.000-04:00

Here is our 1/2 way through video. It took 4 hours to download due to lack of good internet.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

To watch in HD, CLICK on the YouTube icon.

BVI's Sailing Trip: DAY 7

2011-10-29T07:27:00.001-04:00

Today we cast the lines off from Bitter End and set a course for Cane Garden Bay. We had a great down wind sail and got our first fish along the way.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Our mahe, mahe cooked for us at a local restaurant. The chef did
a great job grilling it.

Just another night in paradise.

A great sail down to Cane Garden Bay.

A beautiful Mahe Mahe. It was sooooo good!

Entering Cane Garden Bay. Marc is a happy camper.

We had to tie Marc up so he would not touch the wheel.

Then we had to give Marc a time out in the dinghy.

A beautiful sunset while eating.

BVI's Sailing Trip: DAY 6

2011-10-28T10:23:00.000-04:00

Today we decided to spend another day and night here at Bitter End and just chill and do some snorkeling. We all wanted to take it easy in anticipation of Jost Van Dyk tomorrow and Foxy's. It was nice not to be on the move today.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

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Mike thought this would be a funny picture. Not!

Hundreds of tarpon swim around the dock waiting for their
next meal @ Saba Rock.

Unfortunately I did have to do work when internet was available.
Not a bad place to do though.

Saba Rock is a beautiful piece of paradise.

We have been lucky to see lots of turtles along the way.

Yes I just had to do this. A small private beach off Leverick Bay.

M & M snorkeling along the coral of Bitter End.

Look out Marc! I don't think he is kidding. The stock market
went down today.

Varekai at the Bitter End Yacht Club.

BVI's Sailing Trip: DAY 5

2011-10-27T07:33:00.000-04:00

Today we left Virgin Gorda (Spanish Town) and had a great sail with steady 25 knot winds up to the North side of Virgin Gorda to Bitter End Yacht Club and Saba Rock. With the wind on the nose we set a long course to the west in order to make the harbor in one tack. The cat did really well today in 4-6 foot seas. I will say, I do enjoy the feel of sailing a mono, but the platform is just awesome on a cat.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

A beautiful day sailing up to Bitter End Yacht Club & Saba Rock.
We sailed close hauled in 25 knot winds to make our destination
in one tack.

Mike at the helm inching every degree out of the boat. We never
reefed and the boat performed great and sliced through the seas
like they were butter.

Saba Rock is a KEWL place. We spent all afternoon and
night there until our bodies said "No Mas".

Here is my Obama skull cap which if people know me will never
be worn again!

After round one, two and three of drinks, Mike needed to catch
a nap.

What better place to relax and get a second wind.

My going rate is $50.00 a shoot for any modeling work you
might have.

Mike's rate is $75.00 for any jobs he does.

After 10 drinks Jemma the bartender refused to wash anymore
of our plastic cups. M & M wanted to take all the cups home and
she had enough! See Jemma laughing in background.

Jemma our new favorite bartender in the Caribbean. She makes
an extra hi-test Painkiller.

At 4:00 pm M & M were out cold.

Flipper (Marc) swam out to (150 yards) a strangers boat on a dare
and had to get up on the swim platform and talk to them for
5 minutes and swim back.

What do you really think these British folks thought when this
strange man swam to them and climbed aboard?

Marc won the $100.00. The legend of Marc Aaeronson
continues around the world.

Marc keeps telling us how he knows his knots. This mess happens
everytime we tie up.

Another piece of "eye candy" in paradise.

M & M with their new found friend. Don't tell them he
is not real.

BVI's Sailing Trip: Video Of Days 1-4

2011-10-26T08:42:00.000-04:00

For a little change of pace, here is a short video taken from the Go Pro HD Camera. The video is for days 1 through 4. Yes, Marc is the star!!!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

To watch in HD, CLICK on the YouTube icon above

BVI's Sailing Trip: DAY 4

2011-10-25T08:11:00.000-04:00

Today we left Peter Island and had a four (4) hour sail up to Virgin Gorda and the Baths. With a 10 knot headwind the passage was slow, but we are on island time and we enjoyed the slow pace. As expected we have seen dolphins while underway, unfortunately every time I get the camera they are gone when I get back. We started the day out at the baths snorkeling and walking through all the caves and finally ended up the day in Spanish Town (Virgin Gorda) for the night.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Marc's beverage of choice for breakfast is Carib Beer. M & M
taking one final trip around the bay.

Varekai in her slip on Peter Island. The coffee never tasted so
sitting on a bench under a palm tree looking out into the bay.

Marc just enjoying the ride up to Virgin Gorda & the Baths

The Baths on Virgin Gorda.

The Baths are natural caves that you explore both in the

water and by climbing on them and around them.

A spectacular sunset with a sailboat passing by the sun.

I am a sunset whore and this one was amazing in the harbor

of Virgin Gorda.

BVI's Sailing Trip: DAY 3

2011-10-24T08:48:00.000-04:00

Today we left Norman Island and had a short sail to Peter Island. We had a slow leak in our tender so we headed back to Road Town to get a new one. It was such a perfect day we sailed up to Virgin Gorda and then back to Peter Island. This gave us a chance to see how the "cat" performed in light winds. Peter Island for me is the "dream island" for any romantic getaway. Yes, I am with two (2) guys! The resort is world class and rooms start at $1,500.00 a night and go north from there. I did splurge and I got a massage.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

A cup of coffee in the peaceful anchorage on Norman
Island before heading over to Peter Island.

Is it Bin Laden? Is it Gaddafi? Is it Saddam Hussein?
No, it is John Ahern! Marc says I can not be in the sun
anymore.

Marc enjoying a sail up the Sir Francis Drake Channel.
Ginger Island in the background.

Mike relaxing and enjoying a wad of dip. Beef Island in the
background.

Not a bad shack with incredible views of the British Virgin
Islands.

I did get a massage at the Peter Island Spa. It was sooooo good!

Mike and Marc (I now call them the M&M boys) in Deadman's
Bay. The water is crystal clear blue.

Marc showed us how one should run down the beach and
dive into the water. I won't show the other pictures.

Bobby played great tunes @ The Peter Island Resort.

Who says boating is like camping. What a spread we had at the
resort.

Even our waitress had fun with us. Why can't Americans just
enjoy life?

Maggie wanted to dance with me all night and of course I am
a gentleman. Actually it was the wine.

BVI's Sailing Trip: DAY 2

2011-10-23T08:09:00.000-04:00

We untied the lines at 8:00 am from Tortola or as Marc called it "Tortilla". Our day was planned to sail to the Caves and then to spend the night on Norman Island. Norman Island is known for the famous Willy T's bar. I will say that catamaran's are a pretty Kewl platform for sailing.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

As we cast off the lines, we were sent off by this amazing
rainbow.

Under sail in light 10 knot winds for the caves on Norman Island.
The "cat" is a great sail boat.

Marc in island mode. Yes Marc did have to jump up and down
like a 5 year old on the trampoline.

Mike and Marc heading over to the caves to snorkel.

One of the caves where you can go in and snorkel. One of the
caves were full of bats.

It is not Jacques Cousteau nor a Hawaiian Tropic Model. Mike
got a mask full of water.

Is it Jesus or "Marc on the rocks?"

The famous Willy T.

"Sex in the City" stars Mike Bond and Marc Aaronson on
vacation in the BVI'S.

Having a few frozen drinks and looking out into the cove with
crystal blue water does not get any better.

Gay Couple? Mike holding Marc up? Marc holding Mike up?

We did find 3 girls drunker than us! Of course we were gentlemen.

A tattoo is standard fare at Willy T's. The application method
is pretty erotic. I put my application in for employment.

BVI's Sailing Trip: DAY 1

2011-10-19T07:03:00.006-04:00

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Marc and Mike waiting for our luggage in San Jaun. We had

20 minutes to make our connecting flight to Tortola.

Yes, we missed our connecting flight. We had to re-book
for later in the day. Next time John, leave more than a
1/2 hour to make a connecting flight.

Making the best of a 4 hour layover took a lot of creativity.

Dinner in Tortola before heading out on the town. It felt
good just to relax and have a good meal and wine.

George was a pretty good bartender at the painkiller.

Marc and our new favorite bartender Sara. We found this really
Kewl wine bar.

Marc explaining to Mike why the government is
conspiring to get us.

Man Kayak's for Children to Beat Cancer!

2011-10-15T13:38:00.001-04:00

For most of us we paddle through life concerned about our own needs and problems, and not others. It is easier to write a check to a charity than to get emotionally and personally involved. Michael McInnis is not like most of us! Mike is going to kayak from Texas (yes the state of Texas), around the Gulf of Mexico, down the west coast of Florida, around the Florida Keys, up the east coast of Florida and up the east coat of the United States to Cape Cod (Hyannis). Along the way Michael will give talks about this ugly disease, specifically on children. Michael will continue to raise money along the way to meet his fund raising goal of $100,000.00. He will spend his days kayaking and his nights in marinas in his tent. There will be no support boat watching over his safety or keeping him company. This 3600 nautical mile journey will begin on December 1, 2011 and Mike anticipates it to take six (6) months, which would put him on Cape Cod in June of 2012. Michael will be kayaking an exhausting average of 26 miles a day (a runners marathon a day). Michael is out to raise an amazing $100,000.00 through Hyundai Motors of America Hope on Wheels (http://www.hyundaihopeonwheels.org). This charity supports the efforts to help children fight cancer. Hope on Wheels has raised over 35 million dollars to support this fight. Michael is a survivor of cancer himself, and like most of us, he has also been affected by loved ones with cancer. Every dollar raised or contributed is important, so I ask that you give up coffee/lunch or a dinner for one day and contribute that sum to reward Michael's efforts to raise $100,000.00. Writing a check is easy, Michael is doing all the work!

To donate, please go to: http://www.crowdrise.com/paddle4cancer/fundraiser/kayak4kids

Follow Michael's quest and meet him along his route and offer a hot meal, shower or even a bed for a night!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Michael aboard Wet Paint. Mike is eager to start his kayaking
for a cause. Please help and donate for the kids with cancer.

This will be Michael's mode of transportation for the next
six (6) months. Congratulations to Michael for making a
difference.

Just Hallie on "Dog Time"

2011-10-08T17:15:00.000-04:00

Hallie asked if we could have a father and daughter day. She also asked if I would do a blog post only on her. Because I am a good dad, here is twenty four (24) hours in the life of Hallie Ahern. Hallie is the true "Black Dog" on Island time!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Hallie woke up on Friday ready to start our day together.

I gave Hallie a good run so she would be tired for the ride. We
decided to hit Martha's Vineyard for the day.

My life as a man. I go on dates with my dog and pick up poop.
Better here than on the ferry. She goes on command which
makes life easy.

Hallie in line for the hi-speed ferry over to Martha's Vineyard.

Hallie is all excited about going to Martha's Vineyard and taking
a ride on the ferry.

Hallie on the wall in Oak Bluffs on a perfect weather day.

Dad grabs a burger and beer as Hallie just hangs out and enjoys
everything going on around her.

With the sun shining and perfect weather, Hallie just wanted
to lay down and enjoy the harbor.

Hallie wanted to be the first in line to board the ferry.

Hallie reflecting on a great day.

Hallie was sad to leave the marina for home.

The last activity was a walk along the Cape Cod Canal.

Nantucket Island

2011-10-02T13:18:00.000-04:00

Friday and Saturday turned out to be perfect classic fall days. Friday night it poured, but both days were sunny and in the 70's. Nantucket is such a great cruising destination when the crowds have gone. There is always of plenty of dock space at Nantucket Boat Basin and the dockage rates drop in half. My favorite flying solo restaurant Slip 14 was great as always. I had the lobstaaaa mac & cheese both nights, Soooooooo good!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Another great day and morning on Nantucket.

Sun, light winds and weather in the 70's made this trip perfect.

This beetle cat out for an afternoon sail.

I got about 8 hours of reading in. That is 5 hours less than I did in
my four years of high school.

An afternoon nap with the sun shining down and the water
lapping against the hull of the boat is heaven.

I decided to play tourist and went to the Whaling Museum. It
was a nice surprise.

The story of the whaling boat "Essex" was very well done
and interesting.

The whaling boats skiffs that killed the whales was dwarfed by
the size of a whale. Here is a skeleton of a whale. They
also showed the movie "Nantucket" was excellent.

The radar shows a large storm moving through a 1/2 mile in front
of us on the way home.

Nantucket-Day One

2011-09-30T22:28:00.001-04:00

I am too lazy and drunk to write anything:

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Many people think you have to have a yacht to live aboard,
not so! Joe is happy as a live aboard.

Just a kewl shot. Notice the red skiff "sunkin ship".

To sit on a bench and just enjoy the view is Kewl. I might look
gay, but I am so relaxed.

Not that I would go to the Gazebo and drink!

Which way is home?

Wet Paint in her slip. It is so nice when others think it is
to cold to cruise. 70 and sunny today!

S?V Solice outbound for Newport.

My god, Wet Paint in her slip. She is sexy!

I am so proud to be an American and seeing this American
Bald Eagle.

Message In A Bottle!

2011-09-29T23:00:00.000-04:00

I have decided to go back in time to experience what "real social networking" is. Forget e-mail, forget twittering (or tweeting) and forget Facebook. Social networking started a long time ago by sailors who would put a "Message in a Bottle" and drop it in the ocean and let the current take it. Christopher Columbus used this form of social networking to report land sightings, give weather reports or to communicate, others used it to send an S.O.S. (save our ship or save our souls ).

I will send two (2) "Messages in Bottles" this fall: One was yesterday on my way to Nantucket at the "point of intersection" between Hyannis Massachusetts, Nantucket Massachusetts and Martha's Vineyard Massachusetts. The second one will be at the "point of intersection" between St. John (USVI), Tortola (BVI) and St. Croix (USVI) when I am down there sailing in October.

Latitude & Longitude coordinates of drop:

Bottle #1: 041.27.00 N     070.14.00 W          Nantucket Sound
Bottle #2: 018.05.00 N     064.20.00 W          Caribbean (USVI/BVI)

My guess to where the bottles will end up: Nova Scotia (#1) & Panama (#2). Just a total wild guess!

In my unmarked Coke bottle (plastic is better in case a boat hits it), I have placed a note with some background information, contact information, my Wet Paint business card, my safe passage necklace, a $10.00 bill and a $50.00 reward certificate.  Maybe this could be a nice small business...A "Message in a Bottle" kit with a GPS tracker and you can see/follow your bottle and its location.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

A $10.00 bill, Wet Paint business card, safe passage necklace, typed
message and the Coke bottle will be in the capsule.

The "Message in the Bottle" that will hopefully be read somewhere
around the world.

Getting ready to toss the bottle.

The seas were rougher than what they look. You would think
I was fighting a blue marlin.

I tossed the "message in the bottle" at the exact coordinates.

You go girl for Europe!!!!

The bottle and contents ready to be dropped in the sea in Nantucket
Sound. I will drop it on Thursday September 29, 2011 on my
way to Nantucket.

Norwalk Boat Show & Jono

2011-09-26T19:12:00.000-04:00

I decided to kill two (2) birds with one stone this weekend and go to the Norwalk Boat Show (Norwalk Ct) and visit Jonathon at school (Avon Old Frams School) and watch his two (2) hockey games on Sunday. It was great to see him and I miss him tons. He is a great kid and he looks like he has grown and matured in his three (3) short weeks at school. Hallie and I had a great day and night as we stayed in a hotel Saturday night. Slumber party at its best.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

This yacht was the largest at the show. By appointment only to
step on board. The color of the hull was different, but sexy!

This 37 foot Back Cove was a pretty downeast style boat. Sabre
makes this boat.

Mr. John Ahern and Mr. Bob Bitchen pose for Playgirl at the
Norwalk Boat Show. Bob is owner and editor of
Latitudes & Attitudes Magazine.

Searay's 52 Sedan Bridge was my favorite model on display.
Searay should look at their price point as they are over pricing
their boats.

The new Nordic Tug 39 is a great liveaboard cruiser with
good range.

Searay's bow line up from 28 feet to 52 feet. Each model offers
something for every cruiser. I still think they are the best
production boat builder.

The Beneteau 45 was beautiful and with a well designed floor plan
for extended sailing and living aboard.

Jono skating into his defensive zone with an opposing player
draped over him.

Jono going for the puck as he avoids the opponents fore checker.

Jono is an offensive defenseman as he likes to take the puck
when the opportunity presents itself.

BVI's & USVI's: Here We Come

2011-09-23T11:29:00.000-04:00

With summer showing it's tail lights and the fall now in full swing, it was time to plan the fall exodus down to the Caribbean for some sailing, fun and relaxation. Last year we did the Spanish Virgin Islands (Culebra & Vieques) with a passage up to St. Thomas (USVI) and St. John (USVI) for a few days. This year we will Fly into Tortola (BVI) and charter a Mahe 36 Catamaran sailboat from Bareboats BVI (http://www.bareboatsbvi.com). Liane from Bareboats BVI has been terrific with all the reservations and paperwork and we look forward to visiting the US and British Virgin Islands. We will depart on October 20th and return on the 30th (maybe). Please don't get me wrong, the fall is the best time to cruise in New England and we will not put the boat away until it feels like snow. As I write this post, I am sitting in Nantucket at the Boat Basin. Plenty of cruising to go!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

Each hull of the catamaran contains separate living quarters. Here is the
starboard side stateroom. The port side is identical.

The outdoor living space, cockpit and helm station provides plenty of open
space.

A davit system off the stern will carry our dinghy as we sail through
the Caribbean. At only 36 feet, she is a large and stable boat.

The interior of the Mahe 36 is airy and large with a nice galley and salon.

There are two (2) heads and showers. One (1) in each hull
for privacy and convenience.

Another nice shot of the salon and galley. The salon has great light with
the large windows.

The Mahe 36 under full sail.

Again, sailing with both the mainsail and jib out.

September Cruise To Nantucket

2011-09-20T21:33:00.000-04:00

Here is a short video of my September cruise to Nantucket. A great fall like weekend with plenty of sunshine. Boating in the fall in New England is the best cruising of the year. Keep your boat in the water and get out there and enjoy the hidden pleasures of fall boating.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

Click on the You Tube Logo (bottom right) to watch in HD

PAN, PAN : Triple Trouble's Final Journey

2011-09-19T17:52:00.000-04:00

It was a normal Thursday at work and I was looking forward to leaving the office by 4:00 pm to take a long weekend on Nantucket. Like any other week prior to boating, I always start watching the weather 48 hours prior to leaving the dock. NOAA and Passage Weather (http://passageweather.com) are the two (2) sites I have found to be the most accurate. After the weather reports indicated a cold front coming in (which creates heavy fog), and heavy winds were predicted at night. I decide to leave work at noon and be off the dock by 2:30 pm which would put me on Nantucket all snug in the slip prior to the winds coming in.

Heavy fog on the way to Nantucket, but calm seas gave me a nice ride
over to Tucket.

This is Marc and Triple Trouble on our last boat trip together. This was
taken early summer on the way to Nantucket.

Marc was scheduled to leave on his boat from Hyannis at 8:30 pm and meet me on Nantucket. With the weather holding off Marc left Hyannis and I went out to dinner and to watch the Red Sox. Marc would call me once he was one (1) mile north of the entrance to Nantucket Harbor and we would then communicate via VHF channel 11. At 10:00 pm I received the call that Marc was about to enter the harbor and to meet him at the dock to help him with his lines. With all seeming normal, I was looking forward to having a beer shortly with Marc once he was tied up at the dock.

Looking to Brant Point from the Boats Basin's dock. This picture
was taken at 7:00 pm and all was clear and calm. I would learn quickly, I
would not see Marc and Triple Trouble rounding the lighthouse.

I quickly went to the dock to meet Marc and watch him round Brant Point Light. Everything then changed quickly! At 10:00 pm Marc called me and calmly said "John, call the coast guard, I am on the rocks, I hit the jetty". I quickly switched my VHF to channel 16 and called the Coat Guard at Brant Point.

JCA- "PAN PAN, PAN PAN (rhymes with on) Brant Point Coast Guard Station, Brant Point Coast Guard this is the vessel Wet Paint on channel 16 ova"

USCG- "Response"

JCA- "Ya, I'm actually at the Nantucket Boat Basin and a friend of mine was coming in on his boat and he says he is on the rocks coming into the channel on the east jetty"

Here is a small part of conversation:
http://cgvi.uscg.mil/media/main.php?g2_itemId=1405482

note: For non-boaters, a PAN CALL is made when the person or vessel are not in immediate grave and imminent danger like a MAYDAY CALL, but is still in an urgent situation.

I headed over to the Coast Guard Station Brant Point as a 47-foot cutter and Towboat US was sent to the location. They put a Jayhawk MH-60 Helicopter on alert and emergency medical personnel. The experience I had witnessing how the Coast Guard re-acts and hearing all the communications will not be forgotten. I was so impressed with the execution of the Coast Guard. Meanwhile Marc is stuck on the jetty in 3-4 foot seas crashing over the stern and in 30 knot gusts. I was able to hear all transmissions between the cutter and Marc. Marc secured all fuel lines and seacocks as best he could. The hope was to keep the boat as is and try a rescue at first light with the high winds. The cutter was not able to maneuver close enough without putting the cutter and team in jeopardy. At this point the boat was stable and all pumps were handling the water coming into the boat. Around midnight things turned dire. Within five (5) minutes the boat started to list, the boat shifted and water was coming in faster than the pumps could pump out. The MH-60 Helicopter was launched and when the chopper was 10 minutes out, the boat was sinking and orders were sent to have Marc grab a line and jump in the ocean. He was pulled safely to the cutter. When Marc looked back at Triple Trouble, she was sunk and at the bottom in 18 feet of water. Marc was brought back to Coast Guard Station Brant Point.

Marc's account of the events are as follows: Marc was at the RW buoy and had the markers lined up. Marc has done this trip many, many times and everything was normal. He engaged his auto pilot while slowing down at the entrance of the channel. Next thing he knew his auto pilot alarm was going off and the wind and waves took him out of the channel and into the jetty.

The control room at Coast Guard station Brant Point. The room
was cleared out as all went to meet the incoming cutter with
Marc on it. I will say this team under Senior Chief Petty Officer Matt James
was as professional as I have come across.

Marc and I walked all the shorelines looking for the boat or
any debris that was lost during the sinking. Here is his zodiac
as it was ripped off the davit system and boat. There was an
8hp engine there.

Marc walking the back yard of houses looking to see if he could
find anything.

Marc was possessed that he was going to refurbish his dinghy
until I asked him how he was going to get it home.

Coast Guard Station Brant Point. Congratulations on a job well done.

I prepared a bouquet of flowers for Marc to be thrown over the boat and
a beer to be poured over the wreckage. The life preserver
Marc was wearing. I filmed the ceremony, but I forgot to push record.

This is green can #5 where Marc landed on the rocks. In the
background you can see submerged jetty (look at small rips)

Marc honoring Triple Trouble with flowers and poured beer.

Marc's boat drifted 100 feet from where it hit the rocks. The boat
is marked with the orange and white buoy.

Marc's slip is now empty. I am sure he will now be looking
for a credit on his seasonal dockage. I guess he has no punchlist
items left on the boat.

Trader Ed's created a new drink. Notice the 3rd drink up....
"Marc on the rocks".....You can get over ice or shaken.

Nantucket: Saturday

2011-09-18T15:02:00.000-04:00

Today was another perfect fall day on Nantucket. Most of the day was spent walking the docks, talking with fellow boaters, doing some shopping and reading. Bravo TV was also filming "Bethenny Ever After" on the docks which will air in the Spring of 2012. I decided that we would head home later tonight as a weather pattern of high winds are coming in tomorrow.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Sitting on the end of Straight Wharf with a coffee is so peaceful.

This is the view I have while having my morning coffee.

The Dockmaster office at Nantucket Boat Basin.

"Tootsie" a 26 foot Nordic Tug. Just a great little boat.

The film crew filming "Bethenny Ever After".

The original store for the Juice Guys "Nantucket Necters".

Just relaxing and enjoying the view out into Nantucket Harbor.

Outbound Nantucket Harbor for Hyannis and we were treated
to this amazing sunset.

Nantucket: Friday

2011-09-17T10:13:00.000-04:00

After a pretty sleepless Thursday night, I was happy just to see the sun and get a many cups of coffee. An EVENT occurred last night and I did not get to bed until 2:30 am. The winds also picked up to 40 knots and the boat rocked and rolled all night in it's slip. Today was a pretty typical day on Nantucket and the weather was great (65 and sunny). I so wanted to take a nap, but resisted as I knew I would not get up until tomorrow.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Marc and Triple Trouble never made it in last night. The dock
space sits empty.

The Even Keel for breakfast and a pot of coffee jumped started
my engines a bit.

This picture I took in 1946 of the town of Nantucket. Not
much has changed.

Brant Point Light. We walked the beaches all day trying to find
and debris from past shipwrecks.

A beautiful sportfish getting ready to head out for the trip
down south to Florida.

A beautiful sunset from the bridge of Wet Paint. Wish I was
not enjoying it with Marc.

Remember to allow for low tide when securing your lines
to a fixed pier. This boat was hanging from all cleats.

Nantucket Bound: Thursday

2011-09-16T14:32:00.000-04:00

With a cold front coming in (means heavy fog) and high winds (from Maria) predicted for after 8:00 pm, I snuck out of work to be off the dock by 3:00 pm. As predicted heavy fog was on the menu. I contacted the inbound Hyannis Ferry M/V Iyanough which was on route from Nantucket to Hyannis and confirmed heavy fog out 6 miles with seas 2-3 feet. Once out in open waters it was a great ride over to Nantucket. Marc is coming over on his boat tonight and we will hang out for the weekend.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Outbound Hyannis for Nantucket. Fog was pretty dense for 6-8
miles, then gradual clearing opened up visibility.

Brant Point Light with a couple of fisherman hunting tiny tunas.

Wet Paint tucked in her slip at the Nantucket Boat Basin.

I just love the fall for cruising. Just a beautiful fall night on the
Island of Nantucket. The Basin is very quiet.

Brant Point Light guides boats into Nantucket Harbor safely.

Marc and Triple Trouble will dock stern to Wet Paint. Marc
should be over around 9:00 pm.

Jonathon Off To Avon!

2011-09-12T09:38:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we took Jonathon to Avon Old Farms (http://www.avonoldfarms.com) for his senior year in High School. He is transferring from Pingree (http://www.pingree.org) where his brother Mike is currently a sophomore. I had mixed emotions seeing him start a new chapter and challenge in becoming a man and learning about himself. I graduated in 1986 from Avon and could feel all the anxieties along with Jono about living away from home for the first time, meeting new kids, the unexpected, new challenges, etc. He is in a great place and will enjoy his senior year. I'll miss you buddy, good luck!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PICTURES to ENLARGE)

Jono is in his room. He was lucky to get the largest room with his roommate.
We got his room all set up and ready to go.

Jono and Dad. My room (single) was right next door. He will be off and
running as his fall hockey league starts this weekend and school starts
Wednesday.

Jono's roommate Will is off to John's Hopkins next year for lacrosse. The
funny thing of this is Jono and Will went to Pingree freshman year together.
Will transferred his sophomore year to Avon. Yes, Will is a big dude!

Jono and Mike. Mike says no way to Avon. He is very happy at Pingree.

Mike helping Jono log into his Avon account. The whole school is
wireless.

Jono's Dorm. It is the most beautiful school I have seen. The architecture
and facilities are second to none.

Looking out from Jono's room into the playing fields and vistas.

Even Hallie got some running time on the fields after leaving Jono and
before having a two (2) hour ride home.

September 11, 2001: We Must Never Forget!

2011-09-10T17:36:00.000-04:00

It was September 11th 2001, I had arrived at work like any other day around 7:00 am. A little before 9:00 am word spread at the office that a small plane crashed into the World Trade Center.

Our tenant next door is a television station and our whole office gathered around their large screen television in their studio the whole day in disbelief and shock as the events of the morning unfolded. There were prayers and tears for the innocent lives being killed right before our eyes and for their families. Our anger at who could do this act of terrorism to us the UNITED STATES of AMERICA was visible.

We moved forward as a country and quickly became united, defiant, patriotic, religious and focused and stood as one.

We must never forget the lives lost on September 11, 2001. The victims of the Towers, Flight 11, Flight 175, Flight 93, Flight 77 and all the rescue hero's who gave their lives attempting to save others. Finally, lets not forget all the service men and women who lost their lives protecting our freedoms around the world.

September 11, 2001: We Must Never Forget!!

September 11, 2001: We Must Never Forget!!!

Labor Day Weekend Video

2011-09-07T12:23:00.000-04:00

With the official end of the summer with Labor Day now past us, here is a short video of my trip over Labor Day Weekend to Martha's Vineyard. I hope everyone had a nice Labor Day weekend. Boating is not over as the fall brings the best in cruising New England.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on YouTube Icon to Watch in HD

Labor Day Weekend: Day 4

2011-09-06T09:07:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I told you what a typical morning is like on the boat. Today I will tell you what an afternoon is like. After checking e-mails I do one boat project/chore. Today I checked the oil and sea strainers (about 1 hour of time spent). Usually around 1:00 pm I go and grab lunch (I will eat on dinghy or at the beach) and cruise the harbor on the tender and go to the beach. I get back to the boat around 5:00 pm and relax until it is shower time. After a shower, I have a glass of wine or beer and watch the sunset, then head out to dinner. So that is a typical day aboard Wet Paint.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

Happy Labor Day from Martha's Vineyard.

Tisbury Wharf Marina is where I stay on MV. Noreen & Jeanie
are terrific dockmasters and the reason I keep coming back. Thank you guys
for everything and always being so accommodating!

The Black Dogs Tall Ship Schooner Shenandoah to port as I cruise by on the
tender heading off to the beach.

Lobster BLT/club for lunch. This could be the best bag lunch
anywhere. Lobstaaa, swiss, bacon, lettuce and tomatoes.

When you are alone (did you here I got stood up) it is a lot of
work trying to take pictures of yourself. I am running to pose
for a picture. I have to do it in 10 seconds. Obviously I lost this race.

I made it (on take 5) and could finally indulge in my lobster BLT.
After, I just cruised the lagoon for a while.

I have put so much time on the tender this year. I would
recommend a hard bottom tender in lieu of what I have (inflatable).
For me it was about weight and my davit system for carrying her. A
nice hard bottom with 4 stroke 15 hp is perfect tender.

Yes I still play in the sand. I thought the shells were a nice touch!

Back to Saltwater again for another meal. When you are ALONE,
it is nice to go to a place with good bar and friendly people.

Labor Day Weekend: Day 3

2011-09-05T18:19:00.000-04:00

Today I was up around 6:00 am to a beautiful and tranquil morning. People often ask me what a day is like on the boat. I usually tell them I swim all day as I am training for the 2012 Summer Olympics. A typical morning aboard is:

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

This again was one of those pictures the camera just can't catch
what the eye sees. It was such a peaceful morning.

#1........ I drink 2-3 cups of coffee just staring out into the harbor.

#2.....I read my kindle for a couple of hours.

#3.....I check e-mail, facebook, You Tube and some blogs. It
is now 11:00 am. How fast the morning goes.

Rope or line? I just thought this was a pretty KEWL picture.

Wet Paint at her dock @ Tisbury Wharf Marina.

Sailboat at full sail coming into the harbor.

Again, the marinas are empty! It did not feel like
Labor Day weekend.

The sun finally set on my last night. I did not say my last
night to the Vineyard! I will be back!!

Labor Day Weekend: Day 2

2011-09-04T15:31:00.000-04:00

Saturday was a perfect day with bright sunshine and a nice 15 knot breeze. I spent about 3 hours on the tender cruising every inch of the harbor and lagoon. I also started a new book on my Kindle (Mermaid-Our Family in Paradise) which I hope to complete this weekend. Being solo (don't know if you heard, but I was stood up) has allowed me to just veg and veg and veg. Not so bad, life is good!!!!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PICTURE to ENLARGE)

It felt like fall and not Labor Day with all the marinas empty.
I would guess many boaters have left their boats out of the water
from Hurricane Irene.

The mooring field is like a ghost town. People are missing the
best time to cruise in New England, the Fall!

I did not see his dinghy, but I would guess his tender is called
"Original Contract". I would bet he is in construction.

The Waterside Market on Main Street is a hidden treasure for
breakfast and lunch. The lobstaaaa club is the best I have
had. Once you try it, you will be hooked.

A worker at Gannon & Benjamin is applying a new boat name
to the transom of this boat. G & B make the most beautiful
sailboats I have seen.

A cup of coffee in the afternoon, a great view from the cockpit and
just relaxing is what this weekend was about. Did you hear I got
stood up?

The economy is not bad for everyone. This beautiful yacht pulled
in late afternoon. You work hard and create your own
opportunities and you are rewarded nicely.

A shot of Captain Jaun at the helm just relaxing and enjoying
the ride. I go off all my medicines when I step on the boat and
go cruising. Imagine how boating could save billions in
Health care costs!!!!

Labor Day Weekend: Day 1

2011-09-03T17:13:00.000-04:00

After getting off the dock a day late to start the long weekend, I decided to change plans and not go to Block Island, but to hit the Vineyard. The weather pattern is unstable and I did not want a long bouncy ride home on Monday or lose a day to travel. I got stood up this weekend so I am cruising solo this weekend. I hope everyone has a nice weekend.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTOS to ENLARGE)

While leaving Hyannis Marina, there was a medical emergency
on a boat inbound to Hyannis Harbor and the fire boat
with two (2) paramedics rendezvoused with this sport fish. It was a
surreal sound listening to the Coast Guard and the captain of this boat
communicating over the VHF.

A nice calm ride over to the Vineyard. Heading inbound to
Vineyard Haven and Tisbury Wharf Marina.

The ferry making it's approach to the dock as the sun was setting.

It was one of those pictures I just snapped and it did not come
out too bad!

I had a great meal at Saltwater. I met a great couple from
New York that have been here a week and love it so much, they put
a million dollar offer on a 1.5 million dollar home (asking price).
Cruising solo lets you meet people because they feel bad for
the lonely guy sitting at the bar.

My Top Photos of Hurricane Irene

2011-08-30T20:41:00.000-04:00

Here is my top 14 photos from Hurricane Irene. They depict the force of mother nature and how we as humans are at her mercy and destruction.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

This overturned boat just couldn't hang on any longer.

Mother nature and her fury pounded the south coast of Hyannisport.

"Shorty" the dinghy made it to shore and is being anchored with some
boulders until her owner gets her.

This old Bertram was the only power boat to become free of her mooring and
land herself on the rocks of the inner harbor.

Some bumps and bruisers to the gel coat, but she should be fine after
a little TLC.

This sailboat was lucky to land on the beach and not on the rocks.

This beautiful sailboat was lucky to land at the Hyannis Yachtclub
and memebers and byestanders did their best to secure her.

Looking closely you can see the sailboat is sitting higher than
the dock at Hyannis Marina.

Looking down the dock to the gas dock at Hyannis Marina. The dock
is under water.

Another sailboat washes ashore on rocks.

The storm surge at Hyannis Marina over flowed the travel lift area and
into the parking lot.

This is Eileen who the song "Come on Eileen" was composed for.

Nature against nature with the rocks putting up a good battle.

Boats in the inner harbor were rocking and rolling as Hurricane Irene
left her mark.

Hurricane Irene Video

2011-08-29T12:16:00.000-04:00

Sunday brought Tropical Storm conditions from Irene. With just a little rain and 30 knot winds with gusts up to 50-60 knots, this storm was pretty well predicted and on target. All the boats in the water at Hyannis Marina did well. The marina was very efficient and methodical in making sure all boats were secure. Boats on moorings did not fare so well as we came across eight (8) boats that broke free of the mooring and were on rocks or aground. Insurance does pay for stupidity. The big problem was the tidal surge. With Irene now on her way, we can start to think about Labor Day Weekend.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

Hurricane Irene

2011-08-28T17:33:00.000-04:00

Sunday, August 28, 2011 Hurricane Irene hit the upper east coast of the United States from the New Jersey to Cape Cod and everyplace in between. Saturday was a beautiful day on the Cape and it gave us all a great opportunity to prepare our houses, and of course our boats. Who would have thunk a Hurricane was coming on Saturday.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE

Saturday morning was calm and beautiful on Bass River. The
Cape was ghostly quiet in anticipation of Irene.

Looking across the river at Ship Shops, one would never know
a Hurricane was bearing down on the east coast. This was
the calm before the storm!

In a short 24 hours, our dock would be under a foot of water
and our walk would be covered with water.

My girl Hallie was a trooper all weekend. She helped me all
weekend at the house and on the boat.

Hyannis Marina started pulling boats out of the water at the
owners request. Knowing a tropical storm was what we
were facing in Hyannis, we decided to keep Wet Paint in
at the dock.

Even some of the bigger boats were being put on the hard with
some uncertainty.

I pulled Wet Paint in bow first to keep the bow directly into
Irene's tropical storm winds.

Being bow in enabled us to protect the tender from the high
wind gusts. It also protected the cockpit from driving
rains from the southeast.

It was an eary feeling at the marina. It felt almost Fall like
with all the boats being hauled.

Irene coming up the east coast of the United States.

Irene's path was due west through Hartford which would
relieve Hyannis and most of the Cape from Hurricane force winds.

Lake Tashmoo Anchorage (Sunday)

2011-08-23T13:40:00.001-04:00

Sunday was an early start to head home with a cold front moving in later in the day with rain and winds gusting to 25 knots. It is always nicer to have smooth seas and a comfortable ride. I am up at 6:00 am everyday so getting started early for me can be a nice time to get underway for the next destination or to head home. Next weekend we will be at the house as it will be the boys last weekend down the Cape before they head back to school. Jono will be off to live at Avon Old Farms (transferring) for his senior year. I will miss him!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

This is not my house, but a little secret that few cruisers know about
while in Lake Tashmoo. If you go to the town dock and walk 1/4 mile
up the road on the right is tennis courts. With the tennis courts is
hidden out houses. If your head is close to being full or you enjoy
being on a full size commode, this is a nice hidden jewel.

Outbound at 6:00 am Sunday to beat the weather front coming in.
I am up early anyways and cruising as the sun rises is really KEWL
and beautiful.

An Osprey nest with mom in it to port as Wet Paint makes her way
out of the harbor.

Outbound to Martha's Vineyard Sound. Bye, Bye Lake Tashmoo.

As I turned to starboard and due east, this is what cruising is all
about. Calm seas, coffee in hand and a sunrise.

Captain Juan at the helm as depression sets in as we near Hyannis
Harbor. One day I will be cruising full time with no schedule
to be home for or meet.
Just pure FREEDOM!

Lake Tashmoo Anchorage (Saturday)

2011-08-22T10:28:00.000-04:00

Today we were supposed to move to Cuttyhunk, but we decided to stay put. We were so relaxed, so why un-relax and move? A little reading, swimming off the boat, cruising on the dinghy and walking on the beach pretty much summed up a pretty relaxing day.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

Lake Tashmoo @ 6:00 am looking off the stern. On some days you
will see deer come down to the water for a drink. Having my coffee
and looking out to the tranquility of the surroundings off Wet Paint.

Wet Paint in the dead calm of the wind and current with the sun rising.

If it doesn't quack like a duck, it isn't a duck. This Double Crested Cormorant
kept us entertained with him spreading of his wings display. When moored,
it is amazing what will entertain you and allow you to slow down and enjoy
nature and your surroundings..

These are not deer, but miniature horses that this woman guided down to
the water. She actually allowed these "pets" to roam free and be part
of the family around the house.

There just is not a bad view from anywhere in this mansion. You would never
know this house existed (as well as others) from the roads. Looking to
land from the water always gives you a different perspective.

Looking from the inlet/jetty back into the harbor. The water was warm and blue
and very Caribbean like. Unspoiled destination force you to do a
whole lot of nothing.

Saturdays sunset was just as beautiful as Fridays. Tonight's meal was steak,
mixed vegetables and beer. A perfect night to another great weekend.

Lake Tashmoo Anchorage (Friday)

2011-08-21T16:53:00.000-04:00

Although getting off the dock Friday was delayed (and not by boat problems), once underway the stresses of life went away. The plan was to stay one (1) night in Lake Tashmoo and one (1) night on cuttyhunk. Once snug and situated in Tashmoo, we decided to stay put and spend both nights there. With a strong south, southwest wind, we were better protected where we were anyway. The best part of the weekend was no computer!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

Martha's Vineyard to port and the Elizabethan Islands to
starboard. A beautiful day to cruise.

Entering Lake Tashmoo.

The entrance to stern to Lake Tashmoo. Just a real pretty
hidden jewel.

The picture will not show how "cotton-e" this cloud looked.

Chicken Marsala with linguine and some Menage' A' Trois wine.
Who says you can only have burgers on a boat. Steak and
vegetables were served Saturday night.

A glass of wine, dinner and some Jimmy Buffet and of
course a beautiful sunset.

All About Anchorages!

2011-08-18T12:08:00.000-04:00

When the boys are aboard, we generally end up in Nantucket, Edgartown, Oak Bluffs or Vineyard Haven. They both want the ability to get off the boat and do their own teenage things. This weekend's cruise (no boys) will be about anchoring and living off the grid (generator) in a few of the beautiful coves the Northeast has to offer. Very few people will ever see these magical spots unless they have a boat and keep the lines untied from the marinas.

The first night will be spent in Lake Tashmoo: Lake Tashmoo is a quiet anchorage within walking distance of Vineyard Haven. It lies on the outer northwest side of Martha's Vineyard. It is one of the best hidden secrets of all the cruising harbors in my opinion. Once in the harbor, after a shallow approach, there is plenty of water and a peaceful, secluded and quiet anchorage.

Lake Tashmoo

The second night night will be spent outside Cuttyhunk Harbor. Why be in the crowded inner harbor when you can be outside: Cuttyhunk is the outermost island in the chain of the Elizabeth Islands. The island only has about 60 residents and yes it does have a school and teacher with about six (6) kids in it. Cuttyhunk to me is the quintessential cruising destination which will bring any boater back to simplicity and how life use to be, and should be today.

Cuttyhunk

The trip home will allow for a quick pit stop in Tarpaulin Cove for a quick lunch. If that dam thing called "work" did not interfere with boating, this is where a third night would be spent: Tarpaulin Cove like the rest of the Elizabeth Islands is largely uninhabited, the lighthouse is automated and the cove is mostly used as a shelter for boats transiting the Sound. Tarpaulin Cove is left mostly to daytime visitors. If they only knew what it is to wake up in this cove.

Tarpaulin Cove

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTOS to ENLARGE)

The Three (3) Men Just Cruising: Saturday/Sunday

2011-08-15T09:15:00.000-04:00

What a great weekend with the boys and my friends the Ginches. The weather was perfect and the time spent with the boys was nice and needed. In a short few weeks they will be back in school and their boating time will be over for another year. Thanks guys, Love ya!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

I hate to gain excitement at another's expense, but Fred and
Julie had to leave Saturday. It was so nice being able to stay another
day. It is us who usually leaves first.

Michael taking the dinghy into town to go get an ice cream
at Mad Martha's. Actually a chocolate frappe.

H.E.R. Dream from Hyannis Marina came over for a quick lunch. This
60 footer is Searay's largest yacht. My dream too!

Many people ask me what we do with our human waste. After a few
smart ass answers from me I explain. There are two (2) ways:
Dump it three (3) miles offshore or have it pumped out once
we reach a harbor. Shown here is the pump out boat removing
our waste. I always pump out via a pump out service.

Jono heading into town to get big at the gym! As long as he can workout or
golf at a destination, he is content.

Jono and Michael in Oak Bluffs. A little dinner and then they went to the
movies in town.

I dared Jono to tip the first bike over and to run like hell as the
other hundred bikes tipped over like domino's. There must of
been 500 bikes in Oak Bluffs. Pretty Kewl!

This is not a sunset, but a sunrise as we departed early Sunday morning
from Vineyard Haven. The boys wake up and they are in Hyannis
magically. Thanks boys for a great weekend.

Go Pro HD Video Test

2011-08-14T22:02:00.000-04:00

The Three (3) Men Just Cruising: Friday

2011-08-13T18:10:00.000-04:00

If someone could invent the perfect weather, we have experienced what I call PERFECTION! 80 degrees by day, no humidity and 65 degrees at night. We spent some time cruising around in the tender, going to the beach, the kids did some summer reading and it was just a relaxing day on the Vineyard. With Michael going into Oak Bluffs with his friends for the night, Jono, Fred, Julie and I headed out for a fun dinner at the Blue Canoe. I had Jono set up with our cute waitress, but he could not close the deal (or I should say, he does not know how to close the deal)!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

Jono at the helm taking the old man for a tour of the harbor.

The dinghy dock looking out into the mooring field. For non
boaters, dinghy's are our cars and that is how we get around.

The Ginche's off to lunch in downtown.

Michael and dad going to lunch downtown. Mikey does not get
up until lunch time.

Jono wanted to go to Edgartown so he hopped on the bus. The
Vineyard has a great transportation system.

Fred just looking for clams and scallops. None were taken
or harmed for this photo.

The day ends with another picture perfect sunset over
Vineyard Haven.

The Three (3) Men Just Cruising: Thursday

2011-08-12T11:50:00.000-04:00

The three (3) dysfunctional amigo's headed out of Hyannis for the long weekend. I wanted to anchor and do an all beautiful anchorages this trip (and not touch land), but Jono and Michael said there would be mutiny on Wet Paint (I did not even know they knew this word) and a lot of duct tape attached to dad. After lengthy negotiations, we are splitting the difference. Our trip will take us to Vineyard Haven and Menemsha (anchor), lobstaaaas of course. It will be nice for the kids as my friends will be over there with their son and friend. With the summer winding down, there are only a few weekends left to spend time together before they head back to school. For Jono, this year (senior) he will be living away at Avon Old Farms in Connecticut, so this time spent together is more meaningful.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

As long as Jono gets this seat, has his I-Pod and I-Mac he will
survive. Oh, and Facebook!

A little choppy on the way over, but a great day. After a bumpy
weak in the market, the stress was left back in Hyannis.

Jon is the best first mate and instructions are no longer needed.
No, you can't take the boat with six of your friends!

My dream boat, the Nordhavn. Maybe in my next life or if
I hit the lottery.

Wet Paint all snug in her slip at Tisbury Wharf Marina.

Martha's Vineyard: Saturday

2011-08-08T11:00:00.000-04:00

Saturday was a nice day to hang around Vineyard Haven and enjoy the harbor and downtown after a busy day on Friday. As always, I love to cruise around the harbor on the dinghy for a few hours and enjoy cruising in and out of all the boats in the mooring field and letting loose in Lagoon Pond. We were hit hard with some pretty good showers last night and soaked the rented jeep because I said "it was not going to rain and I did not have to put the top on". I had to take my tender pump to get the inch of water out and dry everything out before returning it. The day ended with a great meal at the "Blue Canoe". I hate to go home tomorrow.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(Click on Photo to Enlarge)

All the sailboats in the mooring field make for good dinghy time
and chatting it up with good people.

This brother and sister were having a blast swinging on the rigging
of this sailboat. I asked if I could try it and they just laughed.

This sailboat was like looking at a picture as it sailed into
Vineyard Haven Harbor under full sails.

This wooden "Gannon and Benjamin" boat was pristine. They restored this
boat with a high gloss finish. They do great work.

Thank god this boat was docked or I would have been crushed. Pretty
sexy bow of a yacht.

Dinner at the Blue Canoe offers Caribbean type views and
atmosphere from the outside deck.

Simple decorations give a nautical look to any house.

A glass of wine and a nice view of the harbor make waiting
easy. The Blue Canoe provides a beautiful flowered garden right on
the harbor while waiting.

Martha's Vineyard: Friday

2011-08-07T15:08:00.000-04:00

It is so nice to wake up thinking it is Saturday, when it is really Friday. For weekend boaters, having that extra day is like......(well, you know). I did have a job to look at on the island so we took advantage of renting a jeep to explore the island. For many people when they come to the island, it is about the downtown's of Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. My favorite part of the island is the southwestern part called Aquinnah (most people know of it as "Gay Head"). It is as close to being in the Caribbean in the Northeast that I think you can explore. Finally ordering cooked lobstaaas and steamers from Larson's in Menemsha and watching the sun set ends a really KEWL day.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(Click on Photos to Enlarge)

Last week I showed you the harbor side of Ernie Boch's home.
Well, here is the street side. Rumors have it by having a llama
on the property, he is able to claim the land as farm land.

The main reason of coming back to the Vineyard was to estimate
a job. Work never ends, even when trying to take a day off!

Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary....What can I say about it? Green
heads, mosquito's and poison ivy. They charged us to walk through
woods and to get eaten alive. Do not put this on the "list of things
to do" while on the Vineyard.

Aquinnah is a little bit of St John (USVI), Ireland and Martha's
Vineyard all in one. This photo of the cliffs, lighthouse and
Elizabethian Islands (Cuttyhunk) in the background.

A beautiful sailboat sailing with a perfect 15 knots of wind with
Cuttyhunk as a backdrop.

This was the largest seagull I have ever seen. As the fisherman
in Menemsha would through the striper carcus in the water, he/she
would dive down and eat it whole.

A sailboat sailing into the sunset off menemsha. Eating lobstaaa,
steamers and having some wine on the beach is better
than.........(well you know).

The sun finally setting ending a great day on Martha's Vineyard.

All the people on the beach eating, drinking and ready for the
"Sunset Show".

Artist Jay Lagemann created the 'Swordfish Harpooner' in 1994, which stands over the dunes and sea grass at Menemsha Public beach

Martha's Vineyard: Thursday

2011-08-05T21:21:00.000-04:00

After my weekend hiatus away from the Cape and boating, August will be a month full of some good trips and anticipated journeys aboard Wet Paint. Block Island, Long Island and Newport are on the itinerary. This weekend we will head to Menemsha and Vineyard Haven on Martha's Vineyard. This weekend I also look forward to putting my new Go Pro (http://gopro.com) HD video waterproof sports camera to the test.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

We desperately needed a new set of cockpit chairs. The
Nantucket Beach Chair Company delivered with the
Nantucket Island logo and Wet Paint.

Outbound Hyannis Harbor and we were greeted with a sunset to
make the cruise over to Martha's Vineyard.

Go Pro HD Video Camera that will take a beating and allow
for some pretty cool pictures and videos. The camera will also
take underwater pictures and video.

As we were off Martha's Vineyard, the sun finally set brilliantly.

Dum Ass Questions We Get Asked

2011-07-30T10:18:00.001-04:00

"Stupid is as stupid does"......Forrest Gump

Unfortunately this weekend I am landlocked with Jonathon in a two (2) day Club Championship in golf and Michael has a concert. Every once in a while someone will e-mail me and ask where a certain post is archived. This one gets a few e-mails so I thought I would re-post where I have absolutely nothing to write about.

Over the years, I have heard some honest questions from non boaters inquiring about my boating lifestyle.  Most of my answers can be thrown right back at them as the answers are the same being on a boat as on land. For example:

Dum Ass:     Where do you go the bathroom?
Me:     Where do you go the bathroom?
Wise Ass Answer:     I anchor off a public beach and just unload!

Dum Ass:     Where do you sleep?
Me:     Where do you sleep?
Wise Ass Answer:     Whomever will allow me in their bed that night!

Here is the top 15 list of Stupid Questions Cruisers Get Asked:

Cruiser:     I was out at sea for 22 straight days on a passage of a 3 year voyage
Dum Ass:     Wow, 22 days at sea, do you pull in and park during the night?
by LA Editor

Dum Ass:     Hey, is your boat leaking?
Cruiser:     He was pointing to my air conditioning thru hull fitting!
by Presentation

Cruiser:    I was in a 98 degree engine compartment with hatch up sweating fixing a fuel pump
Dum Ass:     Do you have engine trouble?
Cruiser:     Everything is okay, it is lunch time and I am feeding the kids!
by StressAweigh

Cruiser:     While anchored and swimming
Dum Ass: If I flush the toilet, are the kids going to be swimming in it?
by Drob

Cruiser:     While at a public dock
Dum Ass:     How much did you pay for your boat?
Cruiser:    None of Your Fucking Business!
by Gofirstclass

Dum Ass:    Let me pay for 1/2 the cost of gas?
Cruiser:     $800.00 later you should have seen his face...Priceless!
by Creekwood

Cruiser:     At anchor and kids watching television
Dum Ass:     I didn't know boats had cable television?
Cruiser:     We have a long cable!
by Bmac

Cruiser:     In mooring field
Dum Ass:    Why do they park all the sailboats in the same direction?
by Presentation

Dum Ass:     Do you live on a boat because you are homeless?
by Coolman

Dum Ass:     Do you use the CB?
by Skolbe

Dum Ass:     With gas so expensive, have you ever thought of buying a sailboat?
All Powerboaters:    HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
by Iprof

Dum Ass:     Hey can you pull over I have to use the bathroom?
by Vince nj1

Dum Ass:     Do you think people with boating blogs are bit pretentious?
Wet Paint:     YES!
by Wish2fish

Dum Ass:     Why do you own a boat?
Boater:     Why do you own a house that can't move from cove to cove, harbor to harbor and Florida to the Caribbean?
by Sailor45

Cruiser:     It was 3-3.5 years ago, we stayed at a marina for approx 4 months while we hauled the boat to finish a few repairs, replace a thru-hull and valve, and do a bottom job. Cheri and I had been away from the marina for several hours, when we returned to our boat, now back in the water, we noticed a young couple sitting in the cockpit of the sailboat next to ours. They had a bottle of wine and they were enjoying the wine and the late afternoon air. We asked them if they were friends of the owners, because we had met the owners a few days prior.
Dum Ass:     NO, we are just seeing what it would be like to have a sailboat.
Cruiser:     They had invited themselves onto someones boat like it was no big deal.
Cruiser:     I wanted to ask them, "Where do you live? Because we would like to eat dinner there to see what living in a house would be like."
by Captain Rob

*     Thanks for everyone contributing. You guys made me laugh. I m sorry I could not post them all.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

Edgartown-Day 2 & 3

2011-07-24T18:37:00.001-04:00

Edgartown is a special port of call......I'll see you again this summer!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

Saturday afternoon this squall moved in and gave a direct hit.
We had winds in excess of 40 knots, thunder, lightening and hail like
rain. I felt bad for all the sailboats that had their hatches open and
no one on board to close them.

With the storms gone, Wet paint sits quietly at her mooring
in Edgartown Harbor. Off to town on the dinghy to get some
lunch and walk around and play tourist.

For a moment, I thought my ex wife was in town. This was
a Thrasher Shark caught in the Monster Shark Tournament by a
local charter boat captain.

I am quicker than the green heads. I learned that if you put
a green head on its back, it can't get back up, not that these
two (2) were getting back up anyway. They were deceased at
5:00 PM Eastern Time.

Heading into Edgartown for dinner on the dinghy gave us a great
sunset over the town. A glass of wine while cruising the
mooring field is pretty Kewl!

A shot of Edgartown Lighthouse as I headed out of the harbor.
Edgartown sure is a beautiful harbor and town. I forgot how
nice it is.

This is not land, but the squall that nailed me on the way home.
I would estimate 30 knot winds and I know heavy, heavy rains.

And boy did it rain for 15 minutes. This was the storm before
the calm.

Edgartown

2011-07-23T10:01:00.000-04:00

Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard is a beautiful port of call. I have not been here in two (2) years so it was nice to be back. For people that don't know the Vineyard, there are four (4) ports: Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven and Menemsha. All have their own charm and characteristics.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

The breakfast of champions when there is no time for
Dunkin Donuts.

Edgartown Lighthouse.

The ferry line from Edgartown to Chappaquiddick.

Edgartown has some of the nicest houses, and driveways.

Even the garages are beautiful.

These house are worth 200K if you moved them off the water. On
the water they are worth 2 million.

Our tax dollars at work. The US Navel sailboats were
docked at Edgartown Yacht Club.

If you have ever bought a car from Ernie Boch, this is where
he spends his weekends. Chico the lama is on the golf course
like lawn in the front of the house. Farm Land?

July 15-17 Weekend

2011-07-17T19:48:00.000-04:00

This weekend we just hung out at the house. We had a lot going on with my sister and husband down and Michael was having his girlfriend Ali down (yes my 15 year old). I am taking them to Lil Wayne Sunday night at the Comcast Center. I am actually in a parking lot writing the blog as I wait for the concert to end (3 hours to go). Thank you Cosi Restaurant for use of your internet.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(CLICK on Photo to ENLARGE)

Hallie thought she was cool wearing dad's sunglasses. She wants
a pair of Doogles now.

Hallie will walk around the water all day long. She needs to
have her paws touching the bottom though!

Jono, Michael and Ali walking down the dock to cruise over
to Martha's Vineyard for dinner.

Puppy love at it's best. Ali is a great girl and Michael treats her
well. Michael bought her Lil Wayne tickets for her birthday.

Jono preparing the lines to dock at Martha's Vineyard.

Ali, Michael and "no date" Jono hanging on the bulkhead in Oak
Bluffs after a great meal at Nancy's. I guess I should talk as I
am "dateless" too!

The sun sets in the horizon as the dinghy dock is crowded with
cruiser's tenders.

Outbound Martha's Vineyard. Cruising at night can be a peaceful
and a reflective time on the bridge of Wet Paint. I love
being underway at night. Just wish it was in the Caribbean.

I took Michael and Hallie (oh, that's my dog's name), I mean Ali
kayaking in Bass River. I actually do call her Hallie quite a bit.

Martha's Vineyard: July 10th Sunday

2011-07-13T08:36:00.000-04:00

Sunday, I got up to early morning fog and took my daily dinghy ride to town for breakfast, coffee and to do some people watching. Mentally this is when I start to think about getting the boat ready to leave and how much traffic I will hit getting off the Cape on Route 6. Another weekend behind, and another work week ahead! Life certainly goes faster as you get older. I just want to cruise full time!! Maybe a good name for my book?

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(Click on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

"Wet Paint" pre-departure in the early morning fog.

A beautiful day departing Vineyard Haven Harbor.

This was one of the most unique yachts I have scene with a
Nordhavn bow and pilothouse and a traditional aft design. Kewl!!

Until next time Martha's Vineyard.

The seas were pond like for a great ride back to Hyannis. Cruising
at 12 knots to prolong the ride was trawler like. Hmmmmmm!!

This is a personal yacht and not a cruise ship. Pretty impressive yacht
following me out of the Harbor.

Martha's Vineyard: July 9th Saturday

2011-07-12T08:25:00.000-04:00

Saturday was a beautiful day. Vineyard Haven is a great commercial port that is friendly to all boaters. I took the dinghy to town, had breakfast and a full pot of coffee. With an 80 degree day and not a cloud in the sky, I just tooled around the harbor, mooring field, anchorage and went to the beach on the tender. Saturday night I had little left in the tank (actually running on empty), met the guys in Oak Bluffs and was back at the boat and in bed by 11:30 pm. There was a "no camera policy" so I figured there would be no material for the blog and called it a night.

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(Click on PHOTO to ENLARGE)

Waking up to "Winslow" the marina dog makes me miss Hallie. She is
the second best dog I know.

Boating and dogs go together like hot fudge and sundaes.

One of the many McMansions on the harbor in Vineyard Haven.

Most people do not see the beauty of the harbor until you see it from
on the water itself. Cruising around in the dinghy allows for such views.

A boaters car (dinghy) parked on the beach in Lagoon Pond.

I was going to go clamming, but this sign made me think otherwise.

Pictures do not do justice for these Vineyard Haven built
Gannon & Benjamin wooden sailboats.

This guy lives and makes salad bowls on his boat and cruises the
anchorage selling his pieces of art.

The night started in Oak Bluffs on "Open House", Mike's 34' Beneteau.

Boating allows for an ever changing sunset that is never the
the same view twice.

Martha's Vineyard: July 8th Friday

2011-07-10T20:25:00.000-04:00

Gotta luv these short work weeks coming off the 4th of July week. Off to the Vineyard for the weekend to meet up with some friends who are on the Martha sandbar for a weekend bachelor party. Mike is sailing down from Boston. I wish I could have made the trip with him, but with the short work week, I could not get the time off to leave Thursday and come home Monday. I love sailing and I know I missed out on a great trip! Although everyone is staying in Oak Bluffs, I am staying in Vineyard Haven. By staying away from Oak Bluffs, I don't have to host everyone on the boat and watch beer spill all over the boat and have to clean up the bathroom when they miss the bulls eye (you get the point).

Addendum: The guys missed the ferry (some place in Mashpee held them hostage)!

Until the Lines are Untied Again!

(click picture to enlarge)

Heading out of Bass River to Vineyard Haven. A squall line
in the horizon.

Yes, I could not avoid heavy showers and 30 knot winds.

Once tied up and secure, you could see the fog that rolled in.

The Black Dog Schooner. Beautiful boat!

A great boat for cruising around the world.

The boardwalk at Oak Bluffs. It is nice just to sit and have a few
beers and people watch.

Mike on his sailboat "Open House".

I was babysitting Mike and Marc all night. Sometimes the sitter
needs a sitter too!

Marc pretending he is "Danny Disco Fever". Yes, he took the dare and
danced by himself. The bar asked to take our disturbed friend and go
to the Lamp Post to finish the night.