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We were preparing for a land voyage to Maine to scope out
our trip next year. Unfortunately, Isabel had other things in mind. By
15 September, it was clear that Isabel was favoring a course towards the
Chesapeake Bay. Bob started to harden Jule III by removing as much stuff
as possible to reduce her windage. Sails, solar panels, jerry cans,
dinghy, and other assorted equipment were stored below. Lines were
doubled up and adjusted to accommodate the wind
(50-70 kts) and storm surge (6-8 feet). By 18 September, the winds were
blowing 30-40 kts out of
the NE. Boats, including Jule III were heeling in their
slip. Sadly, we had to leave and finish securing our dirt
dwelling (photo courtesy of S/V Brass Ring).
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Once we arrived at our land home,
we readied the basement for the siege. Our 150 year old
oaks started their dance in the increasing winds. We
lost electricity at 2100 hrs. The next morning found our
house safe and sound (though our neighbor's house was
split in two by a falling tree). Once the winds subsided
below 30 kts, we headed back to the boat. She was
lying 6 feet above her normal resting place, but she was
none the worsei for wear. We could not get near her as the water
was too high. But she was safe!
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The next day, the water had subsided
and we boarded her and found no water inside! We
started putting her back together...sails, solar panels,
and the other stuff. She was beginning to look like
her old self. Life is good. We heard reports that other
marinas on the western shore did not fare as well. Places further north
had experienced a surge over 7 feet. We
could only hope that the reports were not true.
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Damage was massive! Our sister
marina is exposed to the east and southeast. Three
to four foot waves easily shattered the docks. Many
headsails unfurled in the fury. The marina was feverishly
hauling boats before they sank. Many appeared to be
a total loss. Not a pretty site. We can only hope that
the Bay will not experience anything like this during my lifetime.
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The yard was hauling boats days later. Most had seen
the bottom and many were a total loss. The boat on the left was impaled
by one of the slip's pilings. The boat had risen above the piling and
settled on it as the water receded. The piling punctured the hull and down
it went. Not a pleasant sight. The are numerous other stories along the
Western shore of the Chesapeake. Few marinas escaped the furor of Isabel.
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