Cruising to Oriental and River Dunes

10/29 – We woke to very strong winds, but after checking wind speed and direction and our planned trip for the day, we decided to head out around 10:00. We traveled the Pungo, Pamlico, and Bay Rivers and also a small portion of the Neuse River to get to our destination. On each part of the trip we encountered different wind and wave conditions, with only one part being uncomfortable (the part where things on the flybridge moved around as we pitched to and flo). It was a very sunny day, but on the cool side so jackets were needed part of the time.

On a clear day, you can see forever ......
This was our view as we crossed the Pamlico
We had our first dolphin sighting of the trip

The Hoboken Bridge

Our destination for today was River Dunes in Oriental. Several Loopers, specifically Liz and Steve on Shingebiss, stopped here earlier this year and raved about the accommodations along with the very reasonable rate. The marina had a booth at the boat show in Annapolis and they were advertising great specials, so we decided to give them a try. We arrived at the dock, where the helpful dockmaster, J.C., was there to give us a hand. After checking in we wandered around the facilities … huge club house, restaurant, swimming pool, exercise room, laundry and showers … all of which were first class. After checking out the menu, we decided to make reservations for dinner (they are only open on the weekend). It was definitely a decision we didn’t regret. The food was delicious and we also felt it was reasonably priced.

Approaching River Dunes

The clubhouse

Lounge area

Reading room

Dining Room

Swimming pool - but a bit too cold to use

The showers (including steam) -- probably the fanciest we've seen at a marina

View along the docks

10/30 - Today we used the courtesy car (again, a cut above the usual courtesy car you get at a marina – it was a Yukon XT) to go into Oriental. We visited the normal places – West Marine, Grocery, Marine Consignment, etc., but were able to get away without spending much money. We spent the afternoon doing chores and relaxing. At 6:00 we went to the Docktail Party sponsored by River Dunes. They have 3 firepits on the property and everyone gathered to share food, drinks and stories. There were several loopers, other cruisers and locals in attendance. Since it was chilly, it was great to have the blazing firepits. There was lots of great food and we met several loopers and other cruisers that we had seen along the way, but had never really met. As the temperature chilled, everyone returned to their boats. We watched a little TV, checked weather and then off to bed. Hopefully, we’ll head out early tomorrow morning.