The Window is Open

And I don't mean at the Polar Treat.

All systems are go for a Gulf Stream crossing to the Bahamas tomorrow.  We plan on leaving early (3am) headed for Memory Rock landing at Mangrove Cay by 3pm.  Depending on how we feel, we'll either anchor at Mangove or press on to Great Sail Cay (which would be an ambitious 75 nautical mile day).  Great Sail will offer the best protection from the north blow scheduled to move in on Tuesday.  Today, the West Palm Beach harbor filled up with boats loaded with provisions, all with the same (or similar) float plan.  We took the dinghy around to several of them to discuss details and gather information. The excitement and nervous energy in the air reminded me of the start of a marathon. Conversations were easy; "Where are you from?", "Is this your first time?", "What's your hull speed?", "What do you draft?", "Let's try and stick together for as long as we can..." The seasoned veterans were so willing to take newbies like us under their wing, and offer advice and encouragement.  They all had the same glint in their eye as they spoke; the same misty stare as they gazed over our heads towards the open ocean. They had seen the blue water and white sand beaches of the promise land.  They had been to the "Isles of Perpetual June".  They knew.

Gulp.  Deep breath.  Here goes!