The last few days we have been motoring up the Potomac River. I gained a new respect for George Washington if he really crossed this river in a row boat. This thing is wide, REAL wide —— Until you get close to DC. But it’s choppy the whole length and the current alone would have carried his boat away.
Along the way we stopped at a marina in Fairview Beach, VA because it had a mechanic (generator still not working) and supposedly a nice restaurant. well the books were half right. The place was deserted and it looked like it was abandoned sometime in the 90s. After we risked our lives getting into the shallow, narrow channel in 12 kt winds, we tied up along the wall and Gilbert came walking out. Turns out he’s really a great mechanic (fulltime fireman too). He runs the marine service about 500 feet away from the actual marina that was deserted and now for sale. He worked for over 3 hours checking everything on the generator and finally feels he identified the problem. Unfortunately, he needed to confirm something with Westerbeke before he proceeded. After spending more time late Friday afternoon on the phone, he was told the person that could provide the information and part was already gone. We had to get moving the next morning so I asked what we owed him and he said nothing. “I didn’t fix it so you don’t owe me anything” After forcing a tip on him, we promised to return next week after he had a chance to talk to Westerbeke. You don’t find mechanics like that too often.
Mount Vernon, VA
Washington’s Mansion. The grounds were huge and consisted of many buildings and gardens. It took us most of the day to view all.
At the Washington Museum in Mount Vernon. The museum is very high tech with holograms, detailed dioramas’ and a battle simulator where you can create your own strategy to defeat the British
Fort Washinton
National Harbor (at night) from our boat. We couldn’t afford to stay at this high end destination so we anchored out just close enough so we could still hear the music. We did eat there though after getting fuel. Two hamburgers and ice teas = $39.68. No fries
This was the band at the National Harbor.
Quantico. (It’s a lot bigger when you get close)
Anchoring is tough to find around the capitol so we are staying at the Capitol Yacht Club. You can see the Washington Monument from our boat. Tomorrow we plan to visit the museums. Our appointment with Biden isn’t until late in the afternoon.
Our on-board chef and his helper
I forgot to add this one. This is when we were at Yorktown. Nice sunrise with our little boat behind that beautiful sailing ship. The woodwork craftsmanship was incredible.