This morning we were talking to the folks docked next to us and they mentioned that Presque Isle was a better destination than Alpena harbor. Then at the gas dock an conservative officer told me the same thing, that if we didn't have to go to Alpena then we might want to skip it. She called the Presque Isle marina for us and they said they had a slip for us. So headed to Presque Isle instead.
The water in Saginaw Bay was a lot like what we got on the way up to Port Austin. But once we got 2 hours North and closer to shore it calmed down to trailing 1 foot rollers.
Slowed down to get pictures of Thunder Bay Island lighthouse. We've been to the light before. But can never have enough lighthouse photos. Went to get back on plane and something sounded funny. Noticed I lost steering. Shut down and open the engine hatch for a look. Took a while to figure it out but a pulley for the V belt failed. As in came apart. The belt was still in one piece but glad I picked up a spare.
Called BoatUS for a tow. Operator says they don't have a service provider in the Alpena area but they'd call the Coast Guard and Sheriff. Then the Coast Guard calls. Said they heard that Tow Boat was on their way and are we alright. I explain that the lady at BoatUS told us nobody was on the way. Coast Guard says they'll call back.
About 20 min later the sheriff boat shows up. They ask if we need help bit don't seem aware of our call. I give them our status and they offer a tow. While they get in position Coast Guard calls back to check on our status. Tell them help has arrived.
Next is the 12 or so mile tow to Alpena at 6MPH....
Tied up in the marina. There is a marine store here which will be open at 9am. I have the old pulley out. The bearing ceased. Came out easy and should go in easy.
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