We finally exited the Potomac and re-entered the Chesapeake. We continued up the western shore to Solomon’s Island where we could do laundry, pump out, take on water, recharge our electronic devices and install a new battery bank (in hopes of eliminating our starting problem). Jim and I also used our folding bicycles for the first time to go into town from the marina. Wow, we were way further from town than it looked on the little map! And, we ran out of bicycle lane and had to merge with vehicle traffic on narrow roads with jersey walls…not a good experience. The next trip into town for batteries was made in the marina courtesy car (an old Mercedes with no A/C, no suspension, and only 3 working windows!)
We quickly learned the marina facilities seemed to operate on schedules other that what was advertised. We decided to dine at the waterfront marina restaurant arriving at 7:30 (open until 8:00 according to marina staff). We were denied service stating they decided to stop seating at 7:00. Well, that led to a late-night dinghy ride around the island in search of dinner. None of the restaurants had dinghy docks so we were entertainment for the terrace diners as the vertically-challenged ones climbed from the dinghy to the pier! The next afternoon after a hot day touring, I decided a swim in the marina pool would be a nice way to cool down. They were open until 6:00 (again, per marina staff). I arrived a little before 5:00 to locked gates. Good grief!
Having completed the necessary tasks, we set sail for the eastern shore. I have one word to describe our eastern shore visit: HOT! First stop, Oxford. We dropped anchor just off the channel and dinghied in to explore the small town. It was a really hot day, so we headed for the creamery😊. Great ice cream, but no indoor (i.e. air conditioned) seating. The next day we headed into Cambridge tying up to the free town dock. It was blistering hot, so the first order of business was lunch…in an air-conditioned restaurant. Afterwards, Dale returned to the shade while Jim and I explored the town. It was Sunday; everything was closed. Score one for Dale!
Last stop on the eastern shore before heading to Annapolis was St. Michael’s. We anchored out in a quiet bay and dinghied ashore. Jim and I wanted to eat at Foxy’s, named for the famous bar on Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands. Again, outdoor seating only. The food was good, but the heat and flies were bad! Dale headed for the shade while Jim and I explored the island and picked up a few provisions….and ice cream! St. Michael’s is loaded with character; would have loved to spend another day. But, Annapolis and Baltimore beckon so it’s time to head back across the bay.