As I was the farthest boat out, I didn't have the scope I would have liked. While it was over 50' deep under the boat at high tide, I had set my two anchors in about 10' less. With my rodes, I was wishful thinking I had 5 to 1. I had set my primary(35# CQR w/ 40' chain) with as much reverse as I had, rowed out my second, a 35pd Danforth HT and a little less chain. Both were set to the south on an east west line about 50' apart.

Anchors were the thing to watch out there. I saw many people on their bows before, during, even in the dark. We of course were adjusting rodes or just checking on things. Everyone had at least two anchors down, some more.

My two anchors worked independently, when the winds were more east and west, and jointly through the bulk of 40+ knot winds(I'm guessing I was in a bit more out there).

It was that time you mention, from about 10 to 2 pm that it blew the hardest as the tide reached high, that I was most concerned. From a settee with a book, I watched with one eye as a nice dark "C" shape was drawn on the screen on the GPS.

We all held. It was a lot of work for most of us gathering up the ground tackle. Both of mine came up with huge clods of good old Maine mud.

In hindsight, I "wish" I had, set my primary and then got in the dinghy to take a row around. It's a little nerve wracking to go hunting for a space in amongst boats preparing for a storm. Some people get defensive. In the dinghy, I may have seen a spot or two I'm familiar with that had plenty of space and less water to to deal with. Those places did show themselves eventually to me.

Also, I probably should have headed for a less popular spot(I knew a couple but assumed I'd find more space in Pulpit, with my "local knowledge...." Ha!)

But I'm glad I didn't as it was terrific to meet you and Dorsey and her brother, son and friend onboard his Alubat. A great time, great food, thanks again Bruce. That was the high point of Irene.