Southampton, United Kingdom

We found beautiful Star Mist in slip F27 at Swanwick (pronounced SWAHN-ick) Marina just as we left her in March….but now with welcome sun and gentle breezes.

Our new neighbors saw our suitcases and said, “You must be the Americans!!” (You know a good off-the-beaten path adventure has begun when people are glad to see “the Americans!”)

First to the fundamentals — completing our radio license, EPIRB registration (this handy contraption beeps to all nearby radar if you sink! 😂😂) and acquiring good safety equipment from the well-stocked chandleries here.

This exertion demanded to be rewarded with local potions at the The Jolly Sailor, Old Bursledon.

And finally, our first dinner aboard: smoked trout, “extra mature” cheddar😂, ciabatta, local greens, and that unique British dishy dish, jellied eel (not for sissies😂). Welcome to England, dear friends! 🇬🇧🍾🥂🍺💕