October 2023 Duck Creek Marina Duck Creek is a 'working marina' fright off the Neuse River. No frills but fantastic owners and managers. We had LBM hauled out and scheduled for bottom paint and engine service. We are currently scheduled to have the boat picked up and trailered to Marathon. As this is our first time hiring a shipping company we're cautious but hopeful everything works out. Side Trip to Cozumel Mexico Andrew & Kimberly We had a trip planned with Kimberly and Andrew to Cozumel. We stayed at the very same resort where Scott and I were certified over 35 years ago. We were surprised that much had changed and we experienced an incredible week of scuba diving. Back at BlackFin, Marathon Florida We're so excited to be back in Marathon for the winter. We've already been catching up with old and new friends. Next spring we'll have the boat moved back to NC and resume America's Great Loop. Until then, we'll be busy with cruising the Keys,
Thanks to our friends Jeff and Darlene from Naughti Dophin we were able to secure a slip in the New Bern Grand Marina. This marina is off the ICW and typically not on a Loop plan as it is 10 miles up the Neuse River. We were warned that the Neuse River could be very treacherous but we had an easy cruise. This marina is on the waterfront and packed with historic sites and stories. By far, one of our favorites so far. Of course, I've said that before. New Bern is named after its sister city in Switzerland. As an homage to that great city, you will find over 100 decorated bears throughout. 
We were treated to beautiful tree-lined streets, the Tryon Palace tour and trolley ride, visited the birthplace of Pepsi Cola and ate at several fantastic restaurants. We enjoyed a full week and most days were filled with sunshine until they weren't.
Towards the end of the week, the forecast became much more dire as tropical storm Ophelia was predicted to be a direct hit to New Bern. The winds were up to 68 MPH, (70 MPH is a CAT 1 hurricane). The storm lasted about 24 hours and we were rocked and knocked around for the duration. Many boats pulled their cleets and caused damage to other boats. Luckily we did not experience any more than frayed nerves.
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