It's good to have options

We left Boston, spent a night in a nice calm spot on the way south, and then had a decision to make.  We wanted to head west to City Island to pick up our new Asymmetrical Spinnaker, and have time to test it out before heading south for the winter,  but the winds typically come from the south west so getting there was going to be a challenge. In addition, we were trying to plan timing to stop at Block Island, and have our friend John come out and spend some time with us.

We decided to head to Block Island first, and the weather looked good, and fit Johns timing.  We rented bikes, rode around part of the island, saw some sights, had some good meals, and enjoyed Johns company.

South lighthouse

Windy day at beach

Nice wooded trail

Downtown Block Island

We took John back to Old Saybrook as the weather looked good, and had a nice sail.  Had to motor twice to make the west we needed, but all in all a great day.

We still wanted to make it west to get our sail, and looking at the weather we thought we had a good chance on 8/15 and 8/16 to make it so early on 8/15 we headed out.  

Starting Plan: sail to Port Jefferson and then the next day head to Port Washington/City Island.  Had great winds from the north and we were sailing at 6.5 to 7 knots.  We knew the winds would lighten by noon so had planned on running the engine the rest of the way.  

Midday plan: Since we had such a good morning when we had to turn on the engine we figured might as well go to Lloyd Harbor with is between Port Jeff and City Island. 

Afternoon plan: After checking the weather it now looks like the good winds on 8/16 are gone so we will have to motor on that day as well.  Might as well keep motoring and make it the 76 miles to Port Washington/City Island on 8/15, a long day.

We did have the pleasure of flies joining us.  They were every where and were the biting kind.  Must have killed at least 100.

We made it to City Island, and anchored.  Next morning picked up our sail, and then back over to Port Washington, as it is a nicer anchorage.  Next day, winds looked good, so we reversed route, and hoisted the new sail to sail to Lloyd Harbor, and pick up our sling seat, which was supposed to be complete at the canvas store.

Our new Asymmetrical spinnaker

Sailed at 60 degrees apparent, at a speed of 7 knots, with 12 knots apparent wind.  Better than we expected with the new sail

Our new winch installed and working well for the spinnaker.

Now we have Tropical Storm Henri to worry about heading our way.  Will let you know how that turns out.