On Sunday, May 4, we left Thunderbolt Marina (mile 583) and continued on our way north to Beaufort, SC. We crossed the Savannah River to Fields Cut and there we were, in South Carolina. We went by Daufuskie Island, the island Pat Conroy writes about in “The River Wide.” The island people called it “da fus key” because it was” the first key” for them. These are the people that make those beautiful baskets.

We stayed at the charming marina of Port Royal (mile 539). We traveled 42 miles.

On Monday, Kelley got the bottom of the boat cleaned and zincs replaced. We then went to play. In order to get to Beaufort (pronounce Bew’ ford) we had to ride our bikes. I should say, we got to ride our bikes. There aren’t any bike lanes here. People drive fast. I was stopped at a light, my foot on the curb, the car next to me honks, I look over. The “lady” waves. Well, only one finger…the light changes and off she goes. So much for Low Country hospitality. In reality, everyone here is very welcoming.

We rode into Beaufort and had lunch. It is a charming town. We ate at Plums and I would recommend it next time you are here. We also realized when we reached Beaufort that we should have stayed in the city marina. All of this river walk would have been at our door.