Maryland (more Chesapeake Bay - it's a big body of water)

On May 8th we departed VA for Crisfield Maryland.  It was a sunny beautiful day going north.  Not much happening in Crisfield despite it being known as the Crab Capitol. The crabbers go out, the crabs come it and they're shipped out in a truck-that's the story of Crisfield.  The marina was huge and had bikes to use, so we cruised around town. We found a Goldsborough Boat Shop (Goldsborough is a family name for some of Don's cousins); and we found a fantastic Barbecue joint that had only been open for 1 month!

On May 9th we slipped back into Virginia arriving in Reedsville at about 4 pm.  Weather was overcast, but nonetheless it was smooth sailing.  We passed through Tangier Island on our way.  Tangier Island is only accessible by private boat or ferry.  It is home to a community of watermen and women whose ancestors have lived there since colonial times. The dialect spoken there reflects somewhat Elizabeth era English.

Reedsville, on the other hand is known for its Menhaden processing plants.  Menhaden is not used for food, but is processed into fish oil and fish meal that is used in food, animal feed and dietary supplements (who knew)? Reedsville has some quaint waterfront homes, and a small fisherman's museum with significant boats on display - skipjack, buy boat, crab skiffs, 50's era runabout - just ask Captain Don, the docent.

We departed Virginia again and crossed the border into Maryland at 11:21 am near the mouth of the Potomac River. We arrived at Solomon's Island, one of our favorite stops at 4:00 pm.

Now is when the true boating experience comes to life.  During our trip, Captain Don determined that a "shark bite" had failed in our water system.  So, no - water pump.  What do you do when that happens; you borrow the marinas bikes and ride a mile plus to True Value to purchase a new one.  But, alas, none there.  So, next step you take the marina shuttle to Lowe's and look for a shark bite there.  None - but Captain Don improvised, bought a part he had to improve upon, installed it, and it worked.  Water again!  Thank God for the Captain!

That night, we celebrated by going to dinner at La Vella which is right on the marina property.  YUM!  Wonderful Italian food, one of the best salads I've ever eaten and a new beverage - "Amalfi Spritz."  It's made with limoncello, fresh mint, ginger beer and a splash of Prosecco!  Magnifique!!

Soloman's is well known for its maritime museum and across the Patuxent River is the Patuxent Naval Air Station.  So, you see all kinds of super-hot shot pilots and planes burning cubic dollars of fuel!


                                                                        Tangier Island
                                                             Menhaden Plant in Reedsville
                                                             Virginia Round Stern Crab Boat

                                                                   The Captain at Work

                                                                        Amalfi Spritz



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