Martha's Vineyard (Edgartown) to Newport, RI

The weather forecast looked good for our run from Edgartown to Newport, RI. Winds were to be 10 - 15 mph and waves 2 foot. The sun finally broke through the morning fog and visibility was improving when we slipped our mooring at 0730. The sun was shining bright by the time we were half way to Oak Bluffs and waves were about 1 foot. Winds were abeam and we were making good time. Four flocks of birds flew over and we knew it was time for us to head south. Autumn was in the air. It felt like it was going to be a wonderful day to travel the 10 or so hours to Newport.

Birds Heading South

Our perfect day ended when we rounded the turn at West Chop Light and entered Vineyard Sound. The wind was in our face at 10 -15, the current was against us and the waves were already 3 footers. We were no longer in the protected lee of Martha's Vineyard. Our speed steadily dropped as the wind, waves and current increased. It took us almost 4 hours to reach Gay Head Light. By then the waves were 4 footers. By the time we got to Newport, winds were in the 20s and waves were running 5 foot. You know it is windy when as you reach Breton Reef just off Newport and you see 12 Metre yachts sailing with reefed sails. We headed directly to our mooring in Coasters Island harbor.

All in all, it was not a bad day. The sun shining made it much more pleasant than overcast or rain. We are becoming more comfortable in heavier seas and higher winds. Foreign Affair took it all in stride. It took us 11 hour to make the trip. We read some and took naps along the way.