White Caps and Crab Pots

We departed the Shell Station at Alligator River Bridge this morning at 0730.  Our destination today is Elizabeth City, NC.  First we have to cross Albermarie Sound one of the larger bodies of open water we must cross.  From the bridge to the mouth is about 25 miles. The worse time to cross is when the wind is from the NE.  The wind shifted last night and of course if changed to the NE.  Mariners have a way of telling what the force of the wind is.  It is called the Beaufort wind scale.  Established by a French admiral during the height of sailing ships.  It is still used today.  Wave height and wave action will tell the wind speed.  Today my estimate is Beauford number 5, or 19 to 24 MPH. Thats a lot of wind for a small boat in open water.  The boat did fine and the crew did fine.  At one point I suggested we tie the dog down but Denniese said just put a leash on her and she will be OK.  After a couple of hours the coast line sheltered us and the ride was better.  The depth of the water was less and crab pots started apearing everywhere. Crab pots sit on the bottom and are attached to a float so the owner can come retrieve his crabs.  Each owner will mark his float so he knows which day to check it and of course who owns it.  The problem is they have run out of colors and have begun painting them black. Very hard to see.  If you get one of those caught in your prop it could take a diver to set you free. All passed and we pulled into Elizabeth City about 2pm.  The first slip I pulled into was too small.  The second was reserved for a boat race tomorrow but the third was just right. I had lots of help getting to it.  Most were boat owners that had real reason to fear damage to their boat as I continued looking for a spot to park this thing.  Alls Good Mon, as they say in the islands.  Concert on the grass tonight and farmers market tomorrow.  I think we will leave befor the boat race.  The great Dismal Swamp tomorrow. Pic is of the City Docks