Early morning as we passed the Norfolk Naval Base on our way to mile zero of the ICW.
The only lock on the ICW is on the Virginia Cut. This day (November 4, 2002) the difference in water level was less than one foot.
This beautiful yacht was with us from time to time until St. Augustine, Florida.
After waiting a day for rain and wind to pass, we were getting underway (with many other boats) heading south on the Pungo River, NC.
The crew enjoys a brisk sunrise leaving Dowry Creek Marina.
Two crew members were "on watch" at all times.
Once we entered North Carolina waters, we saw shrimp boats frequently.
These shrimpers were replenishing prior to heading out to the ocean.
The Neuse River is a very wide river which connects with the Alligator River.
The Cape Fear River. Where are you, Robert DiNiro!
More shrimpers
The is the only operational pontoon bridge on the ICW and only opens every hour. The entire middle span is "hinged" on the west end, floating on pontoons, and the east end is pulled with cables to rest against some pilings when it opens.
The Rockpile. About 6 miles long where it is very difficult to pass in either direction.
Swing bridge opening for Grande Mariner.
This inland waterway cruise ship can take 100 passengers. The superstructure collapses in order to pass under low bridges, when necessary.
Heading away from the ICW to find fuel and a marina for the night (November 11, 2002).
Between showers on Bohicket Creek, SC. The sunlight was magnificent.
This almost makes it worth the heavy rain and wind. From Bohicket Marina
Sapelo Sound in the morning after a beautiful anchorage the night before.
At Fernandina Beach, Florida. We were waiting to get to the fuel dock when the sun set.
A beautiful, but slow, stretch with spectacular homes on the east side, and swamp with trees on the west.
The dragon at the south tip of Merritt Island, Florida, now sleeps after years of standing guard. It collapsed in September 2002.
Ah, home at last and time to put Sanderling to bed.