A Coastal Odyssey from Maine to Florida

In November, I embarked on an unforgettable sailing adventure aboard the Spellbound, a trusty 45ft Jeanneau Sun Odyssey. Our journey began in the picturesque harbor of Little Deer Isle, Maine, a charming coastal town known for its stunning natural beauty and rich maritime history.

As we set sail, our first stop was Monhegan Island, a small, rocky island that has long been a haven for artists and nature lovers. The island's rugged coastline and pristine forests were a perfect backdrop for our initial leg of the journey. From there, we made our way to York, Maine, where we were greeted by the warm hospitality of the local community. In the evening, we gathered with fellow sailors and locals, singing sea shanties and sharing tales of our adventures on the open sea.

Next, we set our sights on Provincetown, Massachusetts, a vibrant coastal town known for its colorful houses, art galleries, and lively atmosphere. Unfortunately, the weather had other plans, and we found ourselves hunkered down on the Spellbound, riding out the storm. Despite not being able to explore the town, the experience reminded us of the unpredictable nature of sailing and the importance of being prepared for anything.

As the weather cleared, we embarked on a long stretch of sailing, propelled by incredible winds that carried us all the way to Newport, Rhode Island. Newport, famous for its stunning mansions and rich sailing heritage, was a true highlight of our journey. We spent a week exploring the city's historic streets, soaking in its nautical charm, and enjoying the company of fellow sailors.

From Newport, we sailed to Sag Harbor, New York, a historic whaling town that has transformed into a picturesque haven for boaters and enthusiasts of maritime history. The town's quaint streets and beautiful harbor were a perfect place to rest and recharge before our next adventure.

Sailing through New York Harbor was an experience like no other. The city's iconic skyline loomed before us as we navigated the powerful currents, which fortunately worked in our favor. The Spellbound surged forward, reaching an exhilarating speed of 12 knots as we sailed right through the heart of the city. Despite an encounter with a floating log, we emerged unscathed, our spirits high and our sense of adventure soaring.

Our journey then took us to Cape May, New Jersey, and Assateague Island MD, each offering its own unique charm and nautical delights. As we made our way down the coast, we found ourselves in Norfolk, Virginia, where we entered the Intracoastal Waterway. Navigating the waterway was a test of skill and patience, as we encountered numerous bridges with inaccurate height boards, nearly grazing the Spellbound's mast on multiple occasions. A particular highlight was our stay at the Dowry Creek Marina, a hidden gem that offered a perfect blend of southern hospitality and modern amenities.

Continuing south, we made a brief stop in Beaufort, North Carolina, before an unexpected change in plans led us to Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. This delightful town, with its pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere, was a welcome surprise and a reminder of the serendipitous nature of sailing.

Finally, we arrived in Charleston, South Carolina, a city steeped in history and Southern charm. From there, we set sail for our final destination: Palm Cove in Jacksonville, Florida. As we navigated the warm, turquoise waters of the Florida coast, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible journey we had undertaken.

Sailing the Spellbound from Maine to Florida was a true coastal odyssey, filled with challenges, surprises, and unforgettable moments. Each port of call offered its own unique character and taught us valuable lessons about the joys and challenges of life at sea. As we dropped anchor in Palm Cove, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the memories we had created and the bonds we had forged along the way. The Spellbound had once again proven herself to be a trusty companion, guiding us through the ever-changing waters of the Atlantic coast and reminding us of the endless possibilities that await when we embrace the spirit of adventure.