We had great conditions to go all the way to Norfolk from Deltaville on Wednesday (6/19), pulled into our slip at Waterside Marina in downtown Norfolk, and enjoyed the now familiar sights and sounds from the colorfully-lit restaurants, the ferry and tour boat horns, and passers-by on an evening stroll. We enjoy this city every time we come here. There’s always something memorable (and humorous) from each visit, and our first night here did not disappoint with our dock neighbor’s unique way of tying up his boat while dropping in for dinner along the waterfront. (Several years ago we observed a passenger giving the dock hand the requested line – all coiled up and attached to nothing).
On Thursday morning, we went directly across the street to d’Egg for breakfast. Delicious, as always! There is a beautiful shopping mall right next door to the restaurant that showcases local art, jewelry, clothing, food – you name it – they do a great job promoting small businesses and artisans in the area. We had planned to go to dinner that night at Grain, the rooftop bar at the Hilton, but the weather forecast started looking much worse than what was predicted earlier. Sure enough, by early evening the winds really intensified, prompting the storm sirens to go off (why does this seem to happen whenever we pull into town?!?). Local newscasters advised viewers to treat this like a tornado, although what came through was straight line winds exceeding 70 mph, heavy rain, thunder and lightning. We put out extra lines and fenders, and had no difficulties from the storm.
Friday was still windy, but a beautiful and much cooler day for walking a few blocks through downtown to the Chrysler Museum of Art. This (free!) museum has two floors of paintings, sculptures, glass, interactive displays, crafts tables and reading areas for children, a cafe, and gorgeous outdoor gardens. What a discovery! We took side streets back to our boat, walking through the Freemason district while admiring the beautifully restored historic homes and watching our step as we crossed the old brick streets. Back at the waterfront, crews were busy getting things ready for Pride weekend.
Hans Klocker
Madonna and Child
Chauncey Bradley Ives
Ariadne
That evening, we made it over to Grain and enjoyed local craft brews, dinner, dessert, a gorgeous sunset, plus plenty of people-watching as well.
Saturday morning we continued south to Coinjock, with their ever-dependable dock hands, service, and good food and drink. Moving on the next morning, we continued south and spent the night at Alligator River Marina; the following night we enjoyed the pool at Dowry Creek Marina; Tuesday night we were back at Oriental Marina enjoying their pool, then dinner on the porch at M&M’s.
Who would have thought our Wednesday morning departure from Oriental would appear on the harbor’s webcam – friends knew of our impending arrival back in New Bern before we announced we were home. :-).
784 miles traveled over 7 weeks and one day. A relaxing and stress-free cruise, and we didn’t return home on the “injured” list this time. Yes, we are counting our blessings.
Marty & Doug's Travels 