Poetry in Motion

Sandy Hook Bay: 12 Aug 2010

Meet R2D2

We had a great ride overnight but that east wind was not going to let us have an easy entrance into New York Bay.  We surfed in on rather too large waves, holding as steady as we could up a narrow channel, Cap’n working the sails like a man possessed.  But we did it.  Under sail.  No engine.  No need for coffee, cake or other stimulants, we’d made it.  We were safe and snug in our new anchorage.  Bold sailors are we!

The Coast Guard must have been getting sick of us though.  It did take 2 days for Cap’n Remarkable to work out what was preventing WJ3’s engine from working.  Yes, we knew the ongoing issue was dirty fuel; and under guidance from the friendly crew at Marina on the Bay, a not so short dinghy ride up the Shrewsbury River, the problem was solved.  Gunk had blocked up not only the filters (which the Cap’n was checking daily anyway & ultimately changed) but also the fuel line tap (at the tank).  Scott had taken the Cap’n in hand, provided professional advice, driven him to West Marine for spares and had mechanics, Chris & Rob working on the case – all on a Friday afternoon!  Brilliant!  The problem was solved and WJ3’s engine chugged happily again.  The Cap’n has earned himself an Advanced Diploma in Diesel Engine Maintenance (on the High Seas).  We are forever grateful to Scott and the lads!