Gulf Crossing

Monday 11.23.09 at 2020, Freedom began 'the jump', from the intercoastal (Carrabelle) to the Gulf of Mexico. Crossing the Gulf is the short cut to get to Clearwater (180 miles). It's called 'going outside'.

We traveled in 3 to 4 foot waves for 15 hours. Tut and I got sea sick hour 2. I wanted to turn back but Pat's (Refection) voice was in my head saying "Once we start the crossing we're committed". I think we should be committed for making the crossing .

The captain had to man the helm for 13 hours straight. Then I was well enough to take over the wheel. Andrew feel asleep on his approach to the pillow. He slept for one hour and took back the wheel.

The ride over to Clearwater was awful. The waves tossed and violently shock Freedom. It was nearly impossible to move about the boat. I can't count the number of times I was thrown against the cabinet hardware. Tut crept around, leaning to one side falling often. Mostly he laid with me on saloon bed or next to the Captain, hanging on to save his 9th life.

On Tuesday 11-24-09 a approximate 1500 we made it into the slip at the Clearwater Yacht Club. We had travels 237 miles. What happened to the 180 miles? We zig zaged to avoid being hit on the beam (side) by the waves.

We laid down for a nap at 1530 expecting to be up in time for happy hour. We woke up on Wednesday at 0508. Andrew thought it was time for cocktails. It took me a few minuted to get him to believe it was Wednesday.

Our plans are to stay at the Clearwater yacht club through T-day.