Now to New Bern for two nights Day 9 & 10

Hi there F&F,
Day 9:
We woke up to the most glorious day Still glassy water and a shining sun. As we pulled away from the dock we saw sail boats gently moving and our first sight of a pod of dolphins .We drove up the Neuse River to New Bern and due to the low tide were able to squeeze  under the bridge just before the Grand New Bern  Marina. Normally 15 ft clearance it was more like 16 ft  so no problems.The beauty of having a boat without a Fly Bridge or Mast. This Marina is run by the Hilton Hotel group so we get all the privileges we would if staying in the hotel.Free newspapers and coffee every morning . Many boaters use this Marina as a permanent place to live.Several have sold up their house and possesions and live very simply.We took this deviation so we could visit our friends Carolyn and Bill Carlton who we know from CYC ( Chesapeake Yacht Club where we keep our boat) Had drinks on board Lady Erica and Bill promised to bring the best fried oysters as he had done back in April when we visited them also by boat. Went back to their house for a lovely dinner then back to our home away from home for the night.

Day 10 :
Woke up to wet conditions which soon cleared  and we ended up with another sunny day 73 degrees.
Walked into town just a block away and made for the Tryon Palace built in 1770.  In 1798 it was destroyed by fire but has been lovingly restored using original plans and is beautifully kept. This was designed by a British architect and was out to impress the locals as a show of Britsh might and regal status. The tour lasts 45 mins and the guide is dressed in 17 th century clothing.Our lady was most informative.Well worth a visit. We also got to see inside two other homes nearby as part of the ticket price.Then we were in for a treat ! We went to MJ's restaurant to meet Bill Carlton's 100 yr old Dad and have lunch with him ,Bill and Carolyn .He insisted on sitting between us so we could  talk. Just an amasing man!Apart from some hearing loss ,he was as sharp as a tack! He talked of his doctor 's surgery practice back in 1923 when there were no cures for anything! He has seen great strides in the
medical field  since then. He insisted he wanted to see our boat , so Graeme and Bill took him on board.Just loved it had to see everything.Shades of my Dad. Had a leisurely afternoon reading then dinner on board. We will be leaving around 8.30 am tomorrow as we have a longer journey again .
Over and out
Erica.