The winds were 10-15 mph , seas were 1-2 ft. . Perfect conditions for finishing our MRAC WQ sampling mission.
We ( Chuck & Piers) departed NOLA early am wed. 7/14/10 . Topped off fuel tanks and loaded gear and provisions in case we had to spend the night.
Splashed Ti-belle Deux ( 21 Aquasport CC 175hp ) at Pass Christian yacht club. Powered southbound 168 deg. to 1st way pt. NE9.
Traveled over 90 miles total. Entered La. marshes and found coast and islands surrounded w/ containment booms.
A large number of shrimp boats were positioned in the Miss. / Chandeleur sound and gulf . Most were at anchor or idle.
Spent most of day completing data points on NE transect . Only spotted two small areas of floating oil.
Explored Ship and Cat Islands , They were both surrounded w/ boom and we saw no oil. Sand on beaches appeared clean.
About 50 laborers were leaving Ship when we arrived , Clean up work was done and they were using the tourist excursion ferry for transport.
We did observe large dark patches under water , but could not tell if we were hitting a rip or if is was caused by clouds.
Winds and seas increased , a rough ride to the dock. Arrived back in NOLA just before sunset.
