The captain and crew have just packed 10 jerry tanks securely into the extra area of the cockpit well, this morning. A couple new additions in shiney bronze can be seen;, hoists for the large RIB on the cabin and a new bimini frame.

This family built and run John Alden designed 50' schooner makes this trip every year(for around the last 10 years). In the past they've gone straight across the stream from here or gone south as far as Newport to make the turn into the Gulf Stream.

The boat is only hauled for a few weeks each fall for maintenance, repairs and bottom painting, all done by the family.

It'll be back on the 9 to 5 soon, doing charter work in the Grenadines all winter.

About the time I launch in the spring, 2014, I'll see the HERON sailing into Rockport Harbor.