SunSmiles…TheWriteBoat

Since June, 1999, the motor vessel SunSmiles, a restored 1977 Cargile Cutter Cruiser has been my WriteBoat.  She has served as a floating office, writing studio, getaway destination, cruiser, and on occasion, my “dog house.” Above all, she has been a “memory maker.” In early March, she will become another family’s memory maker. More about that later. For now, it just seems appropriate to reflect on her in pictures.

5x7 Coastal Living story 3-05

A day of cruising across Charleston Harbor, as seen from Captain Tony Ward’s 38′ Hatteras, Knot Less II.

SunSmiles from Naut-Less

Returning from the Cooper River Yacht Club cruise to Beaufort, SC.

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At anchor on the ICW between Isle of Palms and Goat Island.

SunSmilesOnBoatUS

Kippa Lou and Carolyn, too.  At five months old, Kippa spent eight days onboard SunSmiles as we cruised from Charleston to Wrightsville Beach, NC.  On January 21, she will be ten years old, and to this day she has never an “accident” onboard.  She’s an incredible boat – or “boatyard” pup.

High 5 yes -- Hi 10 NO WAY

SunSmiles cabin, as seen from the entrance.  Galley to port. Dinette to starboard.

Cabin from entrance

The dinette served as my desk, until the stand-up desk was installed.

Dinette

The starboard sofa, with storage below.  Mr. Cargile designed it to open into a bed.

Starboard saloon

The port sofa, originally designed to raise into bunks for two, was converted to a standup desk that could breakdown to a two-seater.  When in the desk configuration with laptop and printer stowed, it becomes a great “buffet” when entertaining onboard.

Port saloon

“On the hill,” for routine maintenance.

On the hill 2

Quietly awaiting her next cruise. The attention she received in every marina we have visited has never ceased to amaze me.

SunSmiles at Dolphin Cove

My Friend…

SI frontbeach sunset

I’ve thought of you often today.
As I walk along the beach
The serenity of the setting sun
Gives way to more thoughts.

Everywhere I look
I see your face
Your smile
I hear your laughter
The passion for life in your voice.

I smile as memories
Of our moments together
Dance in my mind
I miss you
I wonder what you are doing
What you are thinking at this moment.

Do you know
The joy
The energy
The intensity
You have brought to me?

Probably not
Unless it is a feeling we share.

The sound of a ship’s horn
Brings me back to reality
I look out at the sea
It is calm
Empty
Lonely
I think of you
And wish you were here.

© Dick Trammell
Sullivan’s Island 1988