Elizabeth City, NC

We left Alligator River early on Friday, 12 May, and headed into Albermarle Sound. At this point we had a decision to make. Should we go right through the Virginia Cut or go left through the Dismal Swamp. We went left toward the Dismal Swamp Canal. It was overcast, and it rained for a short while, but then stopped and remained cloudy and overcast the rest of the day. We crossed Albermarle Sound and went up the Pasquotank River to Elizabeth City, and both were a little choppy but not uncomfortable. The dreaded crab pots were abundant along this leg of the trip. These things are such a nuisance, but it is a fact of life on the water. You just have to pay attention and hope that you don’t snag one that you can’t see.

We arrived at the Elizabeth City, NC Free Dock around 10:00 a.m. There were other “Loopers” already there, and before long the dock was full. We had the pleasure of meeting Fred Fearing, who is a legend in Elizabeth City. We have heard about Fred for years and were glad that we finally had the opportunity to meet him. Fred is 93 years old and is part of what is known as the “Rose Buddies.” Fred is the senior Rose Buddie with several assistants who help him to welcome boaters to the city.

Rose Buddies are known for their hospitality to the boating community. This tradition began 24 years ago, when Fred, and a friend, Joe Kramer, who is now deceased, decided to host an impromptu wine and cheese party for visiting boaters. Fred drives a golf cart and patrols the city dock to welcome boaters. He ensures that all the ladies get a rose from the rose bushes there at the dock. Every afternoon, weather permitting, Fred hosts all boaters at his house. He serves wine, beer, cheese, crackers, chips, and he enjoys sharing stories of his life, the community, and the Dismal Swamp canal. We, and the other boaters at the dock, joined Fred and a couple of his Rose Buddies on Saturday afternoon at Fred’s house and had an enjoyable time. Fred is quite a character and seems to truly enjoy meeting new people everyday.

While in Elizabeth City, we walked around the small town and toured the local museum. We had planned to leave on Sunday, but decided to stay one more day due to the WIND again. Fortunately, we are not on a schedule, so waiting out bad weather and windy days has not been a problem for us. Next stop is the Atlantic Yacht Basin in Chesapeake, VA