TripSailor.com® Sailing Blogs

27,47.847N 097,23.419W

Making the most of the misty light air, we sailed pass the Port Aransas Sea buoy at 02:10 and then cranked up the iron jenny to motor through the Port Aransas jetty and into the Aransas Pass channel. At this time of day, we were just about the only boat moving on the glassy water. Making the turn to port at the start of the Corpus Christi channel, we picked up the range lights and headed towards the home stretch – crossing the Corpus Christi bay.

We were examined by a few curious dolphins, who were probably still up this early on Saturday morning from a raucous Friday night playing with the Port A ferry, which we passed on the way.

We motored clear of the channel and out into the bay, where we were met with the northerly wind shift that foreshadowed the coming front, forecast to arrive later this weekend. We set sail for a final reprise, a fitting finish for a sail of 898nm from Key West. Dropping sails just in front of the Corpus Christi City Marina, Bell’Avventura’s new home, we motored in and backed her into her slip at 06:40.

We’ve sailed a total of 2336nm since leaving Stamford, CT. With almost a year spent in planning and preparation, our adventure has taken a mere 3 weeks in execution. It’s hard to sum it all up, but let me put it this way:

Food for four for 3 weeks – $900

Whisker pole used for just 4 hours – $1000

Fishing tackle to catch fresh fish – $80

Diesel fuel – $200

Bar tab in the Dry Tortugas – $0

Bar tab(s) in Key West – $2000

Beach BBQ in the Marquesas with fresh caught Mahi Mahi – $0

Brunch at Pepe’s in Key West – $125

The experience of sailing your own boat from CT to TX via Key West for your 50th birthday – priceless.

Thanks to all the Bell’Avventuras who sailed and/or supported this voyage. See you on the next one.

Capt. Jay