Today was one of those “we should probably head back” kind of days. Appointments tomorrow, real life calling, and the marina whispering sweet promises of pump-outs and diesel top-offs. But hey, just because we had to go home didn’t mean we couldn’t squeeze in some proper sailing first.
Forecast said a stiff breeze in the morning, easing off later. Sounds good, right? Except it was blowing directly from where we needed to go. Classic. But we were feeling stubborn and salty, so we geared up for a good old-fashioned beat into the wind. Tacking galore. Koko was ready. Crew was pumped up. Off we went.
We cast off around 8:30, leaving our cozy anchorage behind and gliding down the river toward the inlet. That’s when the breeze decided to show up for real—13 to 15 knots true, 18 to 20 apparent, and yep, right on the nose. Swells kicked up through the inlet, water got a bit feisty, but nothing Koko couldn’t handle. She’s a champ.
The current? Oh, it had opinions. It shoved us south—exactly where we didn’t want to go. But that’s sailing, right? You dance with the wind and let the current lead. So we aimed towards the eastern side of the bay, tacked back, and basically waved hello to the spot we’d just left. Long way home? You bet.
Mid-morning, the wind mellowed out. As we edged further east, the swell had less room to party, and the water calmed down. Suddenly, we were in the groove—smooth sailing, wind slowly shifting easterly, and us trimming sails to stay close-hauled and make some leeway.
Eventually, the wind gave up entirely. We fired up the motor for the final leg, sneaking through the shallows into Swan Creek like curious pirates. Verdict? Shortcut approved. Depths looked good, and Koko didn’t even flinch.
Back at the marina, we hit the fuel dock for a quick pump-out and diesel top-off. Then it was back in our slip, safe and sound. But before hitting the road, Koko got her well-earned spa day—inside and out. Scrubbing, rinsing, sweating. By the time we were done, it was 19:00 and we looked like we’d just run a marathon in a sauna.
Quick showers, then off we went around 19:30. Dinner plans? Let’s just say they evolved. Burger King deal? Denied. Cracker Barrel? Closed. So we busted out the emergency bread, a couple slices of salami and cheese, and boom—gourmet picnic while driving.
Rolled into home around 23:30, where the kids were still up, buzzing, and ready for a late-night catch-up. Tired? Absolutely. Satisfied? You bet. Koko sailed like a queen, we made it back in one piece, and we’ve got salty stories to tell.