Martinez to the Napa River At Martinez, it is Rikki-tikki’s very first visit to a real marina. It was welcome accommodation as we weren’t excited about finding a place to anchor among the unfamiliar lowlands of Suisun in the rain. As it turned out, the weather began to clear in the morning and we enjoyed a stroll through the restored wetland area next to the Marina.

Leaving the Martinez Marina, we head out hoping the weather will continue to improve. We have allowed Darzee to resume his flattened position on the starboard wing deck with no need to tie him down. The waters are calm. I receive a cell phone call from my brother-in-law as we pass beneath the three bridges at Carquinez Strait. The newly opened modern span is a striking contrast to the two erector-set versions, which are still heavily trafficked. The sunny blue sky is a harbinger, we hope, of a comfortable week on the hard in Napa.

Mare Island Lift Bridge We went under a lot of bridges in just two days, didn’t we? There are even more coming up! This is the Mare Island Lift Bridge, which someone decided should be painted this unusual turquoise blue. It’s only twelve feet when in the lowered position so just about anything on the water needs to have it lift for them. Beyond is the high-arched Vallejo-Mare Island Causeway and only thirteen miles to go.

On to Napa...

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