Norfolk. Virginia

After a several days of making our way up to Virginia, we finally arrived in Chesapeake, Virginia. We tied up at a free city dock in an area along the ICW called Great Bridge. We were surprised to find out that Great Bridge is actually the location of the first land battle of the American Revolution and the dock that we tied up to had a large memorial and park commemorating the event.

We spent the next couple of days relaxing after a long passage and got ready for our next destination, Norfolk! The sail up to Norfolk from Great Bridge was entertaining. Having never visited Norfolk before, we were surprised at how big the city was and we were amazed by all of the navy ships. We anchored out in Hospital Point in Portsmouth, Virginia, which is just across from Norfolk.

Our friend’s sister-in-law, Nancy, lives in Norfolk and she happily welcomed us to the area and gave us a tour around Portsmouth before inviting us back to her house for a fabulous dinner on her patio. There is alot to be said for knowing someone local when you are visiting a place. They’re almost always 100% more helpful than any map, directions, restaurant recommendation guide or visitor center can provide. We spent a lovely evening talking about sailing and adventures on the sea.