MV Skinwalker is safe!

The boat, our boat, our home is off the sand bar and safe with no apparent damage.  We have tested the running gear, trannies & props no problems.  No new vibrations or overheating.

In this type of grounding according to TowBoatUS there was a 50/50 chance of loosing the boat.  It was technically a salvage operation, but this boat us owner did not treat it as salvage but as a challenge.  It took two two boats with great effort to save our home.  These guys were terrific, sympathic, friendly and so very, very professional.  TowBoat US insurance took care of the hours and effort of the first boat and two men and we paid for the second boat and driver.  I am so proud of Lynn so handled everything with her normal aplomb--until we finished and reached the dock.

We have spent the last few hours cleaning up what fell to the other side of the boat and several gallons of water intrusion through a leaking porthole, as we laid on our side, we think.  The bilges are dry again and the pumps not coming on and off.  We believe all is well.

When we finish cleaning up we are going to find a burger, several beers and a very long nap.

Thank you all for caring.  We have not read your emails yet, but will after we put our shatter egos and nerves back together.  

We are both still shaken, but now relieved.

We will be leaving in the morning back to our northbound efforts and anticipate no significant loss of time.

Bones & Capt'n Lynnie