It was time to return to the mainland due to me missing its convenience for several weeks. But today, the weather wasn’t cooperating with the many ships out at sea and a viscous fog hung menacingly over the ocean. No amount of visibility from the island for miles away.
That didn’t stop the captain of the aging LAURA B boat from transporting passengers to and from the small town of Port Clyde, ME. The passengers were simply encouraged to hold their items close, stay away from the ocean waters, and bundle up in their most coziest coats and jackets. I followed suit and dressed warmly for the foggy weather, hoping the fog didn’t decide to terrorize everyone with bitter cold temperatures. After grabbing my purse and phone, I waited in line for a chance to grab a good seat on the LAURA B.
Once boarded and seated, I swallowed down two Dramamine pills with water to fight against the horrible seasickness that would plague me on every other boat journey. The engine of the boat rumbled from underneath in a low growl and the propellers spun a mixture of waves and bubbles of ocean water.
When the last few passengers boarded and seated themselves in random spots in the cabin, a loud horn sounded, signaling the departure of the boat. As if coming to life, the boat began to crawl forward and made a U-turn to head back to Port Clyde in the dense fog.
Looking around, I noted the majority of the passengers being middle-aged or elderly, some residing by themselves, others joined by their respective spouses. I only had my own company and as such, I was alone in my little corner next to a window. A feeling of wishing for a friend or loved one next to me crossed my mind and I forced myself to stare out the window in fear of someone seeing my solemn expression. I came up here on the island alone, so I must learn to enjoy my own company. That’s what I went with and that’s how it is.
The fog was more viscous than ever out here and visibility was nonexistent on every side. The ocean, which reflected the fog on its surface, also revealed very little to see as the waves brushed away from the boat’s movement. With every wave moving away in a fan-like fashion, I spotted the smallest hint of teal-blue beneath the surface, but within seconds it disappeared as quickly as my eyes caught it. I wondered how frigid and deep the waters were, especially on this day. Taking a dip in murky waters like these on a foggy day would require the bravery and spontaneity of an adventurous person taking up a triple-dog dare from strangers.
As the boat neared its destination, I spotted several floating devices scattered throughout the ocean. I wasn’t sure what the actual name of the devices were, but I knew their purpose: to guide the drivers of boats and ensure no sailor gets lost in the middle of the vast ocean. Yet it seemed like their purpose was forgotten entirely as they floated mindlessly in the ocean. Did a strong storm blow them from their spots? Did someone scatter them everywhere as a cruel joke? I wasn’t sure, but I was grateful for some sign of “life” out in the fog.
The captain’s voice rang over the speakers, startling me from my thoughts. He thanked everyone for riding aboard the LAURA B and apologized for the lack of visibility throughout the trip. Ahead, I spotted the familiar buildings, houses and docks of Port Clyde. I breathed a sigh of relief. I had survived another boat trip without upchucking my insides out. Another loud horn sounded before the boat lined itself up with the bridge connected to the docks. Time to explore the mainland once more until another boat ride would return me back to the island.
le fleur artsy 