June 29                Cohasset, Massachusetts       

At 7:30, Craig arrived to help us untie the multiple lines from the dock placed there to secure the boat so there would be no unexpected movement to cause difficulty for David.  Despite my trepidation due to the narrow channel and shallow water,  David negotiated a precise exit from  and soon we triumphantly passed through the open railroad bridge into the main harbor.  It was lovely weather and the water was calm as we exited Mystic River and entered Block Island Bay.  David attempted to execute the automatic pilot and realized it was not working.   Fluid levels had been checked before departure and we were assured they were adequate.  David could not determine what caused our problem. As we progressed, the wind intensified and steering became a concerted effort as we tried to stay on course.  Our destination was six and one-half hours away and one of us had to maintain constant and intensive vigilance at the helm.  Although it was a joint effort, we were both exhausted when we reached Cohasset.

We entered Kingman Marina, at the mouth of the Cape Cod Canal, and were pleased to have an easy docking site.  David requested mechanical assistance for the steering and was assured it would be available the next day.  Enroute we also realized we had no water pressure.  Kingman Marina was basic—no internet, a non-functioning fuel dock, and a town too far for convenient access but the staff was efficient and friendly.  We were pleased to have dinner on deck and relax after a stressful day.