It's Official...First Courtesy Flag Hoisted

Xcelsior has crossed the first of seven seas. The Gulf of Maine was quite calm at the best of times. The wind was always on our nose that meant more motor sailing than sailing. We averaged 4.5 knots the whole 260 miles. Ted’s new fuel tank lasted 248 miles. Not bad estimating!! We would have made it on 230 miles but ended up altering course. The last thirty miles, I decided to read the guide book for Rhode Island to Canadian Border (nothing like making these purchases and not utilizing them). Realized at that point, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, was not going to work in our favor. Portland, Maine became our new destination, as it is the Port of Entry Customs recognized. If we had of continued on to Portsmouth, we may have been denied entry and told to leave US waters.

Gulf of Maine is known for Right Whales. They are endangered whales, as they seem to get run over by boats. If your engine is running, as a warning signal, most whales will stay out
of the way. Not to mention we make quite the bow wake as we trudge through the waters. Right whales seem to be indulgent to these warnings.

We had a stow away on board at about 100 miles off shore. Or more so Topaz, had an unexpected guess for dinner. The pictures will tell the story.

Portland is a large boating community. Spring Point Marina, is one of ten marina/clubs. It was quite an eye opener as we entered the harbour and sighted, in the distance, millions of masts. Xcelsior, is one of maybe a dozen sail boats at this marina. The smallest power boat here might be thirty-six feet. Mostly Sea Rays and Carvers, and close to 500 boats. In the early hours this morning a large number of the boats departed for a Shark Tournament. The docking fee is $2.50 foot for one night, $67.50 per night (highly recommend anyone stay here as the people and dock masters are great). There goes our budget!! Booze is cheap though!! So that helps ease the pain.

Next port of call…Portsmouth, New Hampshire. We will be able to take a mooring ball at the US Navy Marina, at a more feasible fee. That way, if need be, we can afford a long waiting period as we wait out the next hurricane Florence.