We left the dock in Hampton, VA on November 8 as a warm front passed and a cold front moved in with winds from the north to push the fleet of 70+ boats southward. Some captains chose to enter the Caribbean 1500 rally, which is a race. We chose to join in the cruising class with the overall goal of safety and an enjoyable trip.

The day was foggy and unnerving at times because visibility was low in a few areas. The north winds pushed us at a good pace toward the Gulf Stream. We entered the Gulf Stream at sunup on day 2. I would like to report the about the cobalt water and beautiful waves- but I was below with a bout of Mal de Mar. Truth be known, almost every boat had a few suffering the effects of the confused sea. Sam was feeling chipper and did not pass on the opportunity to fish. Sometime on the morning of the second day, I heard ?fish on� and buried my head when Sam sampled the Mahi Mahi sushi with wasabi.

Some time on day three I stumbled into the cockpit to bright sunlight and the most beautiful blue ocean. We had crossed the Gulf Stream and the the wind was favorable. Life was good!