New York is now astern

With the turn of the tide, we cast off and made our way down the East River, passing the Statue of Liberty one last time before continuing through the Upper and Lower Bay. Once the pilot had disembarked, we set our course to the east. Sailing close-hauled, the Oosterschelde settled into her stride, keeping the southern shore of Long Island off our port side.

As the night wore on and the following day unfolded, the wind gradually veered, allowing us to ease the sheets little by little. By afternoon we were running downwind, carrying the big forecourse  and making excellent time toward Buzzards Bay.

The sea seemed eager to bid us farewell. A pod of five fin whales surfaced only a short distance from the ship, quietly investigating their unexpected visitors. Before long, a large pod of dolphins appeared, effortlessly weaving around the bow. Then, as if to complete the day’s extraordinary wildlife encounters, a large hammerhead shark glided into view.

Meanwhile, the sky was changing. Dark clouds gathered on the horizon, and with thunderstorms forecast we steadily reduced sail until only the staysail remained. Fortunately, the worst of the weather slipped past astern, and by the time we entered the Cape Cod Canal, the last of the storm clouds had all but disappeared.

Shortly after midnight we transited the canal, shaving nearly 130 nautical miles off our voyage. The current can run fiercely here, but by timing our passage with the fair tide, we swept through at impressive speed.

Beyond the canal, Massachusetts Bay welcomed us with light winds, calm seas, and warm sunshine. For several peaceful hours we ghosted along under sail, accompanied once again by fin whales, which clearly thrive in these rich waters.

At 2:00 p.m. we dropped anchor at our designated anchorage, where the Oosterschelde now lies quietly at rest. Tomorrow we will weigh anchor once more to join the Parade of Sail into Boston.

For now, the crew is busy preparing the ship for the next festival. Another memorable passage is behind us, and another adventure is about to begin.