What a terrifying experience we had today! And we weren't even under way.
The wind blew like crazy around two or three o'clock in the morning, but our anchor held. By five, the wind had died down, so we thought we might be able to head for Sandy Hook, but when we listened to the weather forecast, we decided we'd better stay put. Then, as the morning progressed, the wind was nearly calm, the sun was shining, it was a clear, brisk, beautiful fall day, so we decided to go a little ways. It was too late by then to go through Hell Gate on a favorable tide, as we would have been able to do by leaving very early. We figured we'd just go under Throg Neck Bridge and drop anchor. Then we'd be in a good position to leave tomorrow morning.
Around noon, we anchored off Throg Neck in eight feet of water. We let out plenty of chain and backed down on the anchor to be sure it was set. Then we paddled ashore to get some groceries. A very nice couple let us leave our Royaks on their private beach and told us how to get to the stores.
We were in a pleasant residential area of well-maintained brick homes and small shops. We walked a few blocks and ate lunch at a McDonald's. On the way back, we stopped at a little produce market and bought some fresh fruits and vegetables. Then we went to the poultry market next door and bought some chicken legs.
We'd been gone about two hours when we got back to the beach where we'd left our Royaks. They were sitting there, waiting patiently. We glanced across the water to Jofian's anchorage -- and saw water! There was nothing but water where the Jofian had been! We could scarcely believe our eyes. Our boat, our home, everything we own was gone! How could she have dragged anchor, when we'd anchored her so securely? Had someone pirated her? Those were probably the worst moments of our entire cruising experience.
We scanned the horizon anxiously. Then we spotted her, drifting aimlessly near the bridge, nearly two miles away. Roy jumped in his Royak and took off in hot pursuit. I followed as soon as I could get ready. Then we saw a small tugboat towing her! Although we were relieved that Jofian was being towed to safety, we were worried that the tug captain might claim rights of salvage. Luckily for us, the tug belonged to the SUNY (State University of New York) Maritime College, which is located at Throg Neck Bridge. The kids who were on her were happy to have a little adventure and to do a good deed. They didn't ask for a nickel. They attached Jofian to a mooring buoy and gave us permission to stay there overnight.
What a relief to be back on our boat, safe and sound. We're still puzzled as to how she managed to drag anchor. The wind has been blowing 25 knots, but she seemed to be securely anchored when we left. Anyway, all's well that ends well.
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