The
view overlooking Rhode Island’s Narragansett Bay from atop the 21 story
high mid-span of the Claiborne Pell Bridge is truly one of the most
spectacular seascapes in all of North America. From the moment that I
begin the two mile crossing from Jamestown over to Newport my eyes
sweep the blue green Atlantic waters in search of my old friend—the Rum
Runner II. This
nimble prohibition era motor boat, built solely to
evade those who would enforce the Eighteenth Amendment off American
shores, is certainly no stranger to the case files of this publication.
I’ve sung the praises of this classic wooden craft on other occasions;
but there have been little kudos to her captain and crew—and for that
oversight I must apologize. Because during my many passages through
this perfect New England harbor “all hands,” whether they were at the
helm or the handle of the rum punch pitcher, have done a remarkable job
of turning even the simplest jaunt into a grand adventure! Among the
list of skilled and colorful characters that have taken the wheel of
the Rum Runner II is my good
friend Captain Mark Paltridge.
CAPTAIN
MARK
PALTRIDGE
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Most of what I know about the man has been gleaned from brief exchanges
over the last two decades, coffee and cookies at dockside in-between
trips, or a quick evening beer while buttoning up the boat after the
long hours of ferrying needy tourists. This summer though, my wife and
I were able to spend the better part of a day with Mark as a result of
his own generous nature, and the competitive nature of the crew at BMW
Oracle Racing. After an eighteen year hiatus, the team had
brought America’s Cup back to the United States by
defeating the Swiss
defender, Alinghi, in a Deed
of Gift Match last February. Now the cup
and crew were making the requisite public relations rounds, and on this
day the oldest active trophy in international sports would be on
display on the other side of the harbor at historic Fort Adams. A small
flotilla of celebrated past winners and challengers to sailing’s most
sought-after prize would provide escort to the assembled state
dignitaries and yachting luminaries during the crossing. And there,
taking the lead of such legendary names as Intrepid, Columbia,
Heritage, Easterner, Weatherly and Courageous was the Rum Runner II.
RHODE
ISLAND
GOVERNOR
DONALD
L. CARCIERI AND CAPTAIN MARK
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From my usual starboard position in the front of the boat, I watched
our captain spend most of the morning patiently attending to the needs
of all his passengers while adeptly navigating some very crowded
waters. Whether it was a small child, a member of the press or an
important politician, all souls on-board were the beneficiaries of his
knowledge and kindness. Afterwards the three of us adjourned to the
early afternoon quiet of the bar at Benjamin’s for a couple of
pints.
Now the man was in my wheelhouse—and at long last I might get the
chance to know the real Mark Paltridge.
What I discovered after an extended period of conversation was that the
man at the rail was no different than the man at the helm. It’s always
refreshing to find people that live life guided by their finer
attributes whether they are on or off duty. And as someone who has
spent many years on both sides of the bar I appreciate that consistency.
When one considers the role of bartenders and captains it is easy to
conclude that they are very much the same. Both are the stewards of
structures that take on a life and personality of their own, in spite
of whatever human influences are present. Both are charged with the
care and protection of those who in many instances are unable to chart
their own course. And when the day is over, both must see to it that
their passengers reach home or safe harbor.
So to my occasional summertime shipmate on life’s voyage—I raise a
hearty cup to the good captain and a laughing fellow-rover.
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THE
YACHT
COLUMBIA
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