Mystic to Essex (Nott Island)

We only spent one night at Mystic Seaport Museum which gave us time to preview the marina and wander the grounds once more before Ann and her boys arrived. This worked out well as we were able to enjoy some time visiting exhibits which might not interest Carla's grandchildren. Also, we wanted to be in a slip based on the weather forecast for the night of our stay.

We had some unexpected visitors shortly after entering the Sound. Carla was at the wheel and noticed a Coast Guard vessel rapidly approaching us from the rear. Dwayne looked back just in time to see them pull along side and hear their request to board. Carla slowed our boat while Dwayne opened the lifeline gate and assisted two of the Coast Guard personnel aboard. Their boat trailed us while a safety inspection was conducted. We passed with flying colors as we had everything necessary and were familiar with the inspection process since we had a Coast Guard courtesy inspection prior to heading down the ICW. It was all smiles as Dwayne took the photo for the blog before bidding the Coast Guard adieu.

Coast Guard Boarding Party

The Sound was filled with vessels of all manner since the weather was fine and the holiday weekend always brings out an above average number of boaters. We headed back to the same anchorage we left just prior to our night in Mystic. We knew it was good holding and would position us for a run up the Connecticut River to see what it had to offer. When we arrived at Nott Island there were nearly a dozen boats already at anchor. Fortunately, we were able to anchor in nearly the exact spot we previously occupied. We relaxed in out cockpit with sundowners prior to having a great meal of roast beef, mashed potatoes and peas. We went to bed shortly after dark since we knew we'd have to get up early to be able to make the run up and down on the Connecticut River during daylight hours.