August 16                              Fairhaven, Massachusetts

An early morning thunderstorm quickly dispelled shortly after 8:00 and we left Beverly in sunshine and cool weather.  We had rejected earlier plans to go into Boston Harbor for several days and had charted a course to Newport with an overnight stop at Fairhaven.

The sea was smooth and we had a long, pleasant day cruising to the Cape Cod Canal.  It was fun to see again the busy canal scene as people were enjoying hiking, biking, and fishing in the state park that borders the waterway.

As often happens, the water becomes choppy after the exit from the canal.  Fortunately, we had only three hours before we entered the massive gates of the hurricane barrier across the river dividing New Bedford and Fairhaven.  Last year we had spent a week at Fairhaven Shipyards South and we were delighted to return to this pristine and hospitable marina.  Battling a strong wind, David finally brought in the stern of the boat for secure docking despite the ineffective efforts of the dockhand.  It is frustrating, and sometimes dangerous, to have dock help lacking the necessary skills to properly dock a large boat.

After dinner, we took a long walk to the rocky promontory overlooking the bay.  Lined with beautiful large homes, the area reflects the former wealth of this once prominent shipping town.  Unfortunately, the lovely evening was marred when we were attacked by invisible stinging insects.  They seemed to love me best!