Carolyn Farnesworth, Doug Otte, Bob Lipman, and John Foord (standing) hoist a few rounds and dive into
the food as the raft up party kicks into full swing aboard "Day Star".
Carolyn Farnesworth, Doug Otte, Bob Lipman, and John Foord (standing) hoist a few rounds and dive into
the food as the raft up party kicks into full swing aboard "Day Star".
Friday morning presented everyone the opportunity to explore the town of Vinal Haven. Unlike many other Maine coastal communities, the Vinal Haven economy revolves around lobster fishing rather than tourism. While that may have narrowed our shopping options, I for one did not miss that. Our breakfast at a local's favorite restaurant reinforced my admiration for this self-reliant, tight knit, and hard working Maine islander community.
Our departure from Carvers Harbor started in deceptively calm waters. However, by the time we reached the mouth of the harbor at Green Ledge, winds were screaming at 25 knots out of the Southeast. The wind had whipped the Atlantic Ocean into waves with crests of 8 to 10 feet. Motoring past Heron Neck Ledge lighthouse was rough going for Fascination and Day Star, whereas Fiona Rios ducked through the comparatively well protected channel called "The Reach".
Once all of the fleet had made it to the vicinity of Hurricane Island, we raised sail expecting to make excellent headway. Unfortunately, after only an hour the wind shifted to the West and it rapidly started to subside. By mid-afternoon we were nearly becalmed, so we were forced to motor into Pulpit Harbor. Pulpit Harbor is a spacious, well-protected anchorage. Our fleet had no problem setting up a raft far from any of the local native boats.
Three schooners arrived at Pulpit Harbor to set anchor near our fleet.
The raft up party on our last night on Penobscot Bay was a splendid way to close out a week of stellar sailing. The party gave the crews the chance to socialize boat to boat after a week of shared adventure. Stories abounded about the week's activities as seen from the different perspectives of "the other boats". Doal Sanderson wow'ed everyone with his astounding hor'doeurves culinary art served on silverware trays. Shortly after our party began, a parade of three schooners arrived at the harbor to anchor near us. They arrived just as the clouds and sunset combined to paint a breathtaking panorama set against the backdrop of the Penobscot Bay. It is fair to say that all of us will treasure this magical place and time for a lifetime!