Bridges Update

For those who have been waiting with baited breath to hear whether we hit a bridge with our 64'4" mast or not, we have successfully made it under three bridges posted as 65'!  

The first was just after Portsmouth, and subject to a 3' tide, so we timed it to arrive at mid low tide. In addition, bridge heights are measured to the lowest navigable point, and this one had an arch, so that probably gave us an extra 3'. We heaved a small sigh of relief.

Yesterday we tied up at Great Bridge just past the lock and within sight of the first non-tidal bridge. This morning we approached it very, very slowly, with Karen lying down on the bow with the binoculars trying to gauge the clearance.  Height gauge said about 64'8"  but we didn't even lose our cheap wind indicator that I left on top that extends another 8".  To be honest I felt like I was having the big one as we went under ... it's impossible to tell how close you are.

Pungo Ferry Bridge

The second non-tidal bridge today was the Pungo Ferry bridge.  The bridge board read about 64'6" but we cleared it (just, we think!), with my wind indicator still up there, too!

Tonight we are docked looking at the Coinjock bridge.  The marina staff assure me nobody has issues getting under it ... fingers crossed!