The official start and finish line for this trip is the bay bridge tunnel at the mouth of the Chesapeake. It is there that my tracks will overlap and the circumnavigation of the Americas will be complete. I used the 110nm trip down the Chesapeake Bay as a sea trial and found several things that needed modification. The most interesting thing was that I had to motor for 29 hours to get down the bay and when I refueled at Little Creek (just before the start line) I realized I had only used 6.4 gallons of diesel. I only ran my engine at 1200-1400 RPM, but still, very impressive numbers for a Volvo Penta 2002. I’m carrying 106 gallons of diesel and saving it for the North West passage.
The first two days have been pleasant for the most part. I’m so happy to finally be underway. It was such a challenge to raise the money and rebuild the boat (mostly by myself) that being out to sea is a huge pressure off my shoulders. I would like to thank all who helped get this trip going, especially Don Backe, without him this trip would of never happened.
The boat is performing well even though it’s dry weight is 5,070lbs and it’s loaded with nearly 2,500lbs of cargo (mostly food and fuel). I can feel how the weight is affecting her performance but surprisingly, she still sails quite well. I’ll have to baby the boat in fear of losing her rig – she was not made to be this heavy and the extra stress could rip the boat apart. So, slow and steady. Luckily by the time I get through the NW passage (God willing) I’ll have shed 1,200lbs and will be in a much better position to tackle Alaska. Since this is a non-stop trip and the biggest boat I could get my hands on was 27 feet, I just have to deal with a overloaded boat and try to keep a smile on my face. It is still very early in the trip, but I’m off to a good start. Now all I need is for these headwinds to make way for some nice southerlies.
Bon voyage!!… Looking forward to keeping tabs on your journey.
Tim
Boston
Been pulling up your site every morning & evening & tracking — then I report to the family. We are praying EVERY night for you !! I am so excited for you — and now that you are underway … well, I just feel so PROUD to call you nephew. Be careful … “slow & steady” is definitely the right thing !! Found out today that “Johnnie Walker” makes a “GREEN” label scotch … 15 yrs. old. I’m reserving one for you for your return !! I may even join you in a shot. (and I HATE scotch!) BIG hugs ! Your A. Paula
Hey Matt,
I’m guessing you are near of maybe just past Maine??? Spit in the bay for me! Hope the weather is holding for you.
Thinking about you,
Celeste
Just dropped in to say G’Day from ‘down under’ and give you my best wishes.
Hope you can post often so we know how you are going
So happy for you that you were finally able to hoist the sales and begin this important (albeit daring adventure.) Reminds me of Errol Flynn and the old swash-buckling movies! How exciting!! Just remember that while you’re experimenting with all those new Thrive foods that I’m here for backup information. Keep “balanced”…both in the water and with your nutrition & hydration. Always adding prayers for your safety and successful voyage. I’ll keep encouraging others to donate whatever they can for C.R.A.B. Keeping watch, Your Friendly Dietitian/Consultant, Karol Harlan
So excited you are on your way. I tried a previous post, but I don’t see it, so I’ll try again. Is everything going OK so far? Interested in all that it takes to accomplish an adventure such as yours. Will continue to pray for your safety and success. Bon Voyage and God bless.
Karol Harlan
Good luck, I bet you’re looking forward to loosing some of your boats weight!
Stay safe.
Good luck Matt, I am enjoying reading your posts and following the tracker. Am looking forward to following you on your amazing voyage.
It is exciting so exciting to follow your progress. I check it several times a day. Imagine all the people that are venturing with you vicariously. Your parents can certainly be proud of you.
Dave Sterling