Week 33 Charleston SC to Wilmington NC

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Sunday, June 4, 2023
USS Yorktown Tour

This aircraft carrier served our country beginning in WWII.  Completed just six days before the attack on Pearl Harbor the vessel was named the USS Yorktown in honor of the Yorktown lost at Midway.  Our connection to this iconic ship is that Scotts Dad 'Gil' served on the USS Yorktown during the Vietnam War.  Walking through the ship we had a glimpse into this floating city.  From the outside it is immense and when standing on the flight deck walking under several fighter planes it was not difficult to imagine fighter jets being waved onto the deck.  Scott's Dad worked this very flight deck and shared many stories with us. I think he would have loved to know that we were able to walk through this piece of history.


Monday - Wednesday
Cooper River Marina

We were still waiting and wondering what to do about the engine problems.  The appointment we had with the latest mechanic would be our last try.  Dillard Umphet from Liberty Marine (843-343-7079) was the answer. He diagnosed the problem and had the engine repaired in two days. He kept his promises, gave us a fair price, and even suggested we go for a sea trial before he left.  If you need a boat mechanic in Charleston call him!


June 7, 2023

A little bit of Charleston
Market Street, Rainbow Row

We took a break from the boat to take advantage of this iconic southern city.  The City Market did not disappoint, with 100s of artists, craftsmen and great food.  We continued to drive throughout the city including Rainbow Row, a beautiful street with homes painted in lively colors. Tradition and local lore suggest the reason for the painted pastel colors was so drunk sailors might find their way home. Others believe that the various hues were the merchant's way of advertising the type of items sold.  Who knows! 

Thursday, June 8, 2023
Cruise to Georgetown

Rainy night so we didn't see much of this little town. The engines were running but noticed a tiny bit of oil in the water

Friday 
Calabash Creek Anchorage

Quiet night, we're both exhausted from the ups and downs of boat problems. It's difficult to enjoy the beautiful place.

Saturday
Waccamaw River and Myrtle Beach Cruise

 
Alligator Sighting


The ICW is narrow in this area and for the most part a no-wake zone.  We were able to get under most of the bridges without a wait.  There were lots of weekend boaters out enjoying the sun.  We were intent on getting to Wilmington to get to the bottom of the oil leak.

Wilmington NC
Free Dock 

There was a very strong current but we were able to secure the boat to the free dock.  After a little digging Scott discovered the 'leak' was related to a low-pressure valve that he had installed. A bolt had broken off and a small leak was allowing oil to seep out.  He was able to get the pressure valve off, and install a 'backup' (yeh!).  Fingers crossed!

Spending time cruising in our Rosborough 246 on America's Great Loop.

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