Day 3 - Nelson's Dockyard
Bonkers
Donald Macdonald
Thu 8 Feb 2024 22:26
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What a wet day, none stop rain so we had an admin day
which was not relaxing. Tried booking marina berth in St Maarten for the
Heineken Regatta. Initially website would not process berthing request for
various reasons. A couple hours later managed to get a request through. An hour
later had information back about availability and cost. Also mentioned in the
email a lack of amenities as under refurbishment. An email about options
available as expensive for no showers or toilets. The super yacht marina next
door, same company we can use, short dinghy ride or 10 minute walk. Next gave
card details to pay. Came back as card declined. Tried doing wire transfer all
went well then internet banking declined and had to call a UK number. Another
hour later marina berth paid for. In last hour of this the wind was coming from
the north and we were touching the wall with rudder. Tried pulling forward on
windlass, the anchor came to us not us to it. Put engine on to hold off wall
whilst I finished call with fraud team to get card, mobile and internet banking
working again. It was monsoon rain coming down too. Once call and bill paid we
left the dock to reset. As wind howling and rain better than a shower coming
down thought we would go and get fuel. Where we thought fuel was, does not
appear correct unless everything put away due rain. Went back to moor,, called
marina for assistance as we cannot get close enough to wall to step ashore to
manage the lines as stern too. First anchor did not hold when were tied up.
Left and tried again we think better and have 40 meters of chain out. We
are at a cocky angle and if we hold no problem. Wind 30 knots now due to move
from NNW to SW by 2100 (0100 UTC), then we may go for food as lost a little
confidence in the anchoring lark.
The stuff we want away in storage until the end of
Antigua week beginning May has gone so a little more room in lockers and
cabin. Mainsail has been repaired so will collect in the sunshine and fit
dry.
CSA rating, can see we have one but no certificate yet
and monies have not been taken. Will chase tomorrow as need cert by/for Monday
deadline. Boat safety inspection for Caribbean 600 booked for next Thursday
12.30, lay day between Inshore races and Antigua 360
races.
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