Kevin B (RPS Coach) Posted May 7, 2007 Share Posted May 7, 2007 The plan had been to circumnavigate Cape Ann today. Even with the winds forcast at 20 knots sustained with up to 30 knot gusts, we were resolute in our determination to complete the trip. Yesterday, after talking about the trip we wanted to take today, I opted to make the call on the beach. At Gloucester High at 10 am sharp with not a soul around, I watched the flags indicate the wind speed, and my resolution starting the wane. Could I paddle against 25 knot gusts? Yes. Did I want to? Would it be enjoyable? No Five minutes went by, and then another, and when I was almost ready to leave, John and Ross pulled around the corner. Our expressions were eaasily intepreted: not today:) So, still wanting to paddle, we put our heads together and decided to look for a put in Manchester or Beverly where we could still get some water time in, but avoid the wind as much as possible. After several attempts , we ended up at West Beach with a direct view of Misery Island. A few minutes later, we were off heading for the east side of Misery with a beam wind of 15-20 knots and a flood current. We circled Great Misery and Little Misery, where some good rock play was had, stopping on Great for a tea break and lunch. Not quite having had enough, we decided to head for House Island against the wind and current. By this time, the NE wind had switched to an E wind, and we were heading straight in to it. The sea state had also detoratied to 1-1.5 wind generated chop and confused seas with the occasional 2 footer and lots of white caps. The east side of House presented quite a lot of texture and a bit of fun bouncing around in the chop. Upon circling the island, we had wind and following seas all the way back to the put in. Overall, what looked like a wash of a day turned out to be a wonderful paddle. A little determination to paddle goes a long way. So if there is to be moral for this story, call the paddle on the beach; otherwise, you may miss some golden opportunities. 6 to 7 NM. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kevin B (RPS Coach) Posted May 7, 2007 Author Share Posted May 7, 2007 "detoratied " whoops, typo---I do know how to spell deteriorated Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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