First time on the ocean

Elaine and I went out from East End Beach, Portland, last night. It was our first time this season on the ocean. The weather was perfect. There was a little bit of chop in the water.

We went around Macworth Island and back. Nothing eventful or burly. It was a good shakedown cruise. I tested some rearrangements of my gear. I stowed the spare paddles on the bow instead of stern. I will be able to reach forward more easily than back if I need it.

On the forward deck I kept the clutter to a minimum: Deck compass and a short line. The paddle float and pump were stashed behind me. I'm keeping the deck clear because I'm keeping my paddle as low as possible. It's so low that I bang it on equipment stashed there.

The deck compass is moved closer to the cockpit. There's a depression forward of the hatch for it. But it's a bit too hard to read. The few feet closer make all the difference in the world. I know. I'm getting old. The knees will go next.

But in the meantime, I have plenty of ocean to enjoy.