Gets kinda loud here
21 October 2009 | Willoughby Bay, Norfolk Va.
alan
I decided to anchor out another night rather than taking a slip at the marina. Willoughby Bay looked good on the chart and had rave reviews in the cruising guides. The two aircraft carriers I saw on the way in didn't bother me. Actually they looked kind of neat. The rows of buildings along the southern edge of the bay looked like warehouses. It was not until I had the anchor firmly set that I realized that I am next to the Naval Airbase at Norfolk. Turns out, the buildings are hangers for the helicopter fleet. Helicopters taking off and landing ALL the time. Some just hovering. Some just sitting there with the engines running. I guess that don't have an idling law like NYC. How did I miss that on the way in? I am also apparently on the runway approach for those planes with the big radar domes on top. I can just about see their faces as they pass by. I just the music up louder. Does the Navy stop when it gets dark? Tomorrow I'll move over to the marina and get ready for Beckie's arrival. Looks like a good day to shower and change the sheets on the bunk. (I've changed them couple times since I left.. really). I've been on the boat 5 weeks now and for the last two and a half I have either been anchored out or on a mooring. Actually being on the hook is a lot quieter than being at a dock.
It was a nice trip down the Bay. Maybe on the way back we'll have time to explore it a little more.
Oh, anyone know what it means when they blow the bugle on a navy base and it sounds like the Kentucky Derby? Next time watch out for who your neighbors are! Sent vis SSB radio