Go for it!
You are feeling nervous because you have realized the enormity of what you plan and because you have made some blunders recently while out in the boat. That is to be expected. The blunders are from inexperience, and will not be repeated because you have learned from them. You now carry 2 or 3 spare alternator belts, as you now know that it is critical for your engine! You tried sailing into a head current, but learned that if you can sail at four knots and the current sets at five, you ain't gonna get there fast. On that note, you have learned patience, to wait for the tide when aground, and to take note of where others have (and have not!) anchored...there's a reason for everything and only a fool ignores the obvious. You are worried about the Jersey shore, with good reason. You either coast-hop, staying in the crowded and potentially dangerous near-shore area with its on-shore winds, or you dog-leg out to sea into deep, safe water. Given the choice between a croded lee shore and wide open water, the answer is obvious. Go for it, God bless, and good luck...I envy you. fair winds, Chris
