2130 Wednesday, July 6
I have been doing a lot of thinking the past several days. Faced with unexpected delays, I have not wanted to let go the hope of reaching Labrador and possibly Nunatsiavut. I have also been in touch with most of my crew that had planned to join me for different legs of the sailing expedition this summer. I have also been trying to get a better handle on just how long before the engine is squared away. As I write this evening, the engine is now at a machine shop in St. John's that specializes in diesel rebuilds. I hope to get the engine back perhaps by next Friday, or a few days after that.
So, it has been a pensive time as I consider the dreams and goals I had for this summer, to return to northern waters that I first visited many years ago; a visit that has always inspired me. (I may share more of that first visit with all of you in a future email.) Here are the basics of a new plan.
As soon as possible after engine repairs, make for St. Anthony at the northern tip of Newfoundland. Do a crew change there and then cross the Strait of Belle Isle and make our way as far north as time permits, hopefully to Makkovik and Hopedale. Then head back south to St. Anthony. After that cruise down the northern portion of Newfoundland's east coast to Lewisporte. At Lewisporte, the boat would be hauled and stored for the winter. Next summer I would return and bring Tazzarin home.
There simply s not time to reach Nunatsiavut this summer and get back home before bad weather, late in the season, sets in. So, laying Tazzarin up for the winter in Newfoundland appears to be the answer. I am working out the timing and details and ports of call. I hope you will follow along. While here in St. John's, I am going to start sharing some of this beautiful area beyond the city with you. It abounds in natural beauty, wildlife and stunning fishing outports.
Bill