03/03/2025 ICW Day 62 : Welcome to North Carolina!

by Brian · Published March 3, 2025 · Updated March 5, 2025

We have been getting behind on chores so this post will be short. In a nutshell, we sailed against the current for a couple miles, then it got better. I gotta tell you, I really love this. The only thing I wish for is more speed. I’ve been studying hull design and sail plans, trying to figure out if it is possible to have a “dream boat” that is faster than this one (in no wind, meaning more pedal efficient)…. And in light breeze (meaning more sail area). Also, I would like to have a little more max speed, but do not need to rip over 15 knots. Plus, I want it to be safe, and light enough to beach launch (meaning a cat or a tri)…

It is fun to dream…. This is as fun as cycling, as long as I can have no motor and be able to pedal the boat. Rowing is another option; it probably transfers more energy into the water.. but I always used to be so fatigued after rowing and the idea of being in heavy seas facing backwards does not appeal. The Hobie mirage pedal drive seems pretty klunky, lots of plastic parts… but it appears to be one of the more efficient water-drive mechanisms out there!! Being able to carry the folding bike is another “must”. That way, it is possible to explore new places that couldn’t be explored by bike alone via boat, foot, and bike.

Photos:

I’m devouring all info I can about hulls, riggings, and sail plans. Here is what ChatGPT said about this photo: This appears to be a ketch-rigged sailboat based on its two masts. The taller mast (mainmast) is positioned forward, while the shorter mast (mizzenmast) is located behind it. The boat has a sleek hull, likely designed for offshore sailing or cruising. The rigging and overall setup suggest it may be a bluewater cruiser, well-suited for long voyages.

Our national bird. We have seen more bald eagles on this trip than at any other time in my life.

So many “free” boats. We check the boats and if they have a “red tag” on them, I can only assume that they are “free”. Super curious how this works, because basically a boat like this is trash that the government or some entity needs to move because the owner ditched it. Honestly I think we average 5 boats a day, and some look (to my untrained eye) to be salvageable… at least for parts)

Our excellent camp! Suddenly upon entering North Carolina, there is so much water access! I just love the vibe I am getting in NC. It has only been a day, but it really seems different here and I like it.