LORD’S PRAYER LOG, Part 259:

Tuesday, September 24, 2002

Underway headed SSW, motorsailing into Cape Cod Bay

0025 At position 42 03.306 N 70 22.448 W with Race Point Light at Provincetown bearing 086 T / 5.9 nm, I am entering a nest of fishing buoys with radar reflective tops. These buoys cause frequent alarms from the radar guard-zone. The effect is akin to hostile jamming.

1240 The wind has veered NE 15-16 kts. I jibe over onto a port broad reach and secure the engine. Speed is about 5.5 kts; ETA at the Canal is about 0345.

0303 I start the engine in preparation for arrival at the east entrance of the Canal. The Canal current was presumably at its peak favorable flow at 0230; it will remain favorable for another 3.25 hours or until about 0545.

0340 I enter the Cape Cod Canal.

0403 Current in the Canal peaks at 4.0 kts in places; it is much better to be riding a favorable current than bucking it.

0430 I exit the Canal.

0442 I pass a sailboat at anchor off Cedar Island Point, evidently awaiting the tide change in the Canal.

0450 I pass port-to-port with a tug headed into the Canal.

0521 I start into the Red Brook Harbor entrance.
0602 I secure to the fuel float at Parkers Boatyard and shut down the engine. Position 41 40.480 N 70 36.872 W

0630 Sunrise.

1000 After grabbing a few hours sleep, I visit with Raz and Bruce Parker.

1215 I check the engine oil and add a quart.

1230 I top off the diesel tanks with 53.1 gallons at $1.65/gal; this is the first fuel I have taken since Halifax.

1500 I take a shower in the boatyard facilities; gosh it feels good to get cleaned up. I shall rest for a bit; I intend to be underway after dinner, as there is a fair wind that might just last long enough for a beeline trip to Cape May, NJ.

END OF LORD’S PRAYER LOG, Part 259