We attempted to leave on Monday as planned, but the water level was low due to adverse wind tides, so we ended up stuck ijn the sand in the inlet to the marina. We spent the best part of 2 hours trying every which way to get through the channel, but ended up running aground multiple times, so we gave up and returned to the slip, with the forecast for a favorable wind tide the next day. FYI, we draw 5 ft 6in, although maybe closer to 6ft with all the equipment, stores, fuel and water on board.

The next morning, we did indeed have a rising tide level, but we also had 20 degrees and it was snowing hard, so we just couldn't muster the enthusiasm to go out in those conditions, especially as we had to negotiate the narrow and shallow Intracoastal Waterway (locally known as the "ditch").

So we decided to wait another day.

Well, finally we got going this morning under clear skies, with temperatures about 21 degrees - forecast to go up to a balmy 36 degrees. First though, we had to scrape 3-4 inches of snow and ice off the boat, during which, Michelle found a new use for a pancake spatular. We also had to figure out how to uncoil a frozen line - funny that didn't come up in our sailing courses in California?

So, we set off, with at least 8 layers of clothes, foul weather gear, and low expectations given our recent experience. We did manage to get out of the inlet after hitting bottom twice, but at least we were out! After about 4 1/2 hours of motoring and hand steering, exposed to the elements, we were both frozen, but approching Beaufort. At least on the way we were able to have tea and hot soup.

About 1/4 mile from Beaufort, while navigating what seemed like the widest channel we'd been in all day at a comfortable 5 knots, we suddenly hit bottom and stopped dead! By now though, we're old hands at getting off sand banks, so after a minute or so of thought, we got ourselves off the bank and tied up to a doick.

After an hour in a coffee shop warming up, and a very hot, long shower, we're feeling pretty good about actually having gotten this hourney started finally.

We plan to stay here until Friday morning as tonight and tomorrow are forecast for very cold, with a warming trend Friday and forecast favorable winds for our offshore trip from here to Florida.

We should be in the Daytona area by Monday if the forecast winds hold.

Please check out the "Frostbitten" photo gallery - definitely not what either of us had in mind - I now think we probably are certifiable.