Once the fog cleared we headed out from the dock at the Rod and Gun and said good buy to Everglade City. Next stop an anchorage on Little Shark River. The day was sunny and warm and the gulf was really calm. We headed in the entrance to the river and found a nice spot to anchor. We cracked the 4,000 mile mark with our 48 mile day which brought us to 4,006 miles. We were all settled in by 3pm. There was one other boat anchored closer to the gulf. As the afternoon went on more boats came in to anchor and they anchored almost in the middle of the river. We were close to shore in 10' of water but our concern was as the tide went out would we swing to close to shore. So we figured if everyone else anchored more out in the river we might as well. Up anchor and moved about 15' more away from shore. Saw a few manatees coming up for air and had some owls hooting in the mangrove trees that lined the shore. Great peaceful night.
The 27th was a fog less morning so we were up and ready to get underway by 8am. Anchor up and out into the gulf we went. It was pretty calm to start but as we reached the end of mainland Florida and entered the Florida bay the wind and waves picked up. We set our course for the hump in the 7 mile bridge. We did a lot of crab trap dodging on the way. The waves were up as we were again in open water. Got sprayed a few times up in the fly bridge and the decks were covered with salt water spray. After a few hours we had the bridge in sight, which after being tossed around put a good feeling in our bodies. It seemed like forever till we passed under the bridge and onto the Atlantic side of the keys. The water became rougher with Cuba being the only land blocking the wind out of the south. We made our 4 mile trek to the opening of boot key harbor. Made our way back to the marina past a mooring field of hundreds of boats. We had never seen so many boats in a mooring field. The marina is full to the max, but we were lucky enough to get a slip. May only be able till stay till Thursday as the slip is promised out that day.
We are hoping someone leaves so we can get their slip and stay a week. For some reason people don't like to leave this warm spot. There was live music here at the open bar and to our amazement the beer was only $1.75 a bottle. At the gun club it was $5.00 a bottle.
We plan on taking the bus from here to Key West it is about an hour ride, should be fun.
Today we traveled 53 miles total 4059.
Lin & Rich
Sonbrero Dockside Marina
Marathon, Florida
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
February 25th Day 228
We were up and ready to get underway by 8am but had to wait to get to the pump out dock
as people were refueling due to fuel going up 4.30 in an hour. We finally got pumped out
and were underway by 9am. We headed out to the Gulf where the wind was picking up and the sea was a little rough. Lucky for us we were heading into the waves. We went out and around Marco Island another high rent district of South Florida and set our course for Barron River.
We had to stay out about 9 miles near the river to miss a shallow reef that had 3' of water.
Once past the reef we headed 9 miles to the river marker than another 6 miles up the river to
the Rod and Gun marina. It was established in 1864 and the inside of the club was spectacular.
Old mounts of fish and wildlife hung from the walls. It was something to see, also had a pool with a small water falls. We sat on the porch and had our refreshing beverage while taking in the everglades. It is only a short ride up the river to Everglades City. We walked up the river to a place called Camella's bar and grill. They had a live entertainment which was really good,
We grabbed a small bite to eat, a couples of drinks and sat and enjoyed the music.
Today we traveled 50.5 miles to bring the total trip up to 3,958 miles. We are getting closer to that 4,000 mark. We should be into the keys in the next few days if the weather holds out.
Heard some bad news that the home town got another snow storm. We sure do miss them.
Lin & Rich
Rod & Gun Club, Barron River
near Everglade City, Florida
as people were refueling due to fuel going up 4.30 in an hour. We finally got pumped out
and were underway by 9am. We headed out to the Gulf where the wind was picking up and the sea was a little rough. Lucky for us we were heading into the waves. We went out and around Marco Island another high rent district of South Florida and set our course for Barron River.
We had to stay out about 9 miles near the river to miss a shallow reef that had 3' of water.
Once past the reef we headed 9 miles to the river marker than another 6 miles up the river to
the Rod and Gun marina. It was established in 1864 and the inside of the club was spectacular.
Old mounts of fish and wildlife hung from the walls. It was something to see, also had a pool with a small water falls. We sat on the porch and had our refreshing beverage while taking in the everglades. It is only a short ride up the river to Everglades City. We walked up the river to a place called Camella's bar and grill. They had a live entertainment which was really good,
We grabbed a small bite to eat, a couples of drinks and sat and enjoyed the music.
Today we traveled 50.5 miles to bring the total trip up to 3,958 miles. We are getting closer to that 4,000 mark. We should be into the keys in the next few days if the weather holds out.
Heard some bad news that the home town got another snow storm. We sure do miss them.
Lin & Rich
Rod & Gun Club, Barron River
near Everglade City, Florida
Thursday, February 24, 2011
February 24th day 227
It was foggy when we got up this morning and we are hoping it won't be so foggy tomorrow as we are leaving Naples to head to Everglade City. We got things ready around the boat took on some fresh water and did some laundry. Engine checks are done and we are ready to get underway tomorrow. Around 1pm Ruth came over and picked us up for another great visit. Shelly our daughter sent a package of meds and other needs to Ruth's house for us. Shelly and the kids always load the one price box up with extra stuff and this time some pictures. We have been woken up by the early fishermen and there boats so no need to set the alarm for tomorrow.
Today was another beautiful South Florida day.
Lin & Rich
Naples City Dock
Naples, Florida
Today was another beautiful South Florida day.
Lin & Rich
Naples City Dock
Naples, Florida
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
February 22nd & 23rd Days 225 & 226
Another beautiful morning in southwest Florida. We did some work around the boat and the normal engine room checks, so we will be ready when the time comes to leave. Here in Naples you can only stay four nights without moving the boat, some city ordinance. Ruth our sister-in -law came to pick us up at 1pm. We got a tour of Naples and then headed over to her house. She took us shopping and we got what we need plus a run to the refreshing beverage store. We had a great visit at her house then went to Michealbobs Rib Shack which had outstanding ribs. After eating too much we headed back to the boat. It was a great visit and we plan on getting together again before we head out.
February 23rd
Dick Santere who was also on a Swift Boat crew in Vietnam and who lives in Naples came to the boat. The last time we saw each other was in 2000 when we all met for a reunion in Coronado California where we trained on the boats. It had been a while since I emailed him so before we left Fort Meyers I emailed him to say we were going to be in the area. Dick came over to the boat around noon and we had a great visit. He took us to the high rent district of Naples and the houses on the water were beyond words, as I have said in the past there is some money in Florida. Dick took Lin & I to a great lunch and then to his office, some people still do work.
In his office he had a great model of a Swift Boat that he got from England and put together. Said he did not have to look at the directions as he could remember where everything was supposed to go. It was great seeing Dick again and he did not look any different then he did 11 years ago. I said to Lin before Dick came, I wonder if we will recognise each other. Guess as the eyes get older friends still look the same.
Lin & Rich
Naples City Dock
Naples, Florida
February 23rd
Dick Santere who was also on a Swift Boat crew in Vietnam and who lives in Naples came to the boat. The last time we saw each other was in 2000 when we all met for a reunion in Coronado California where we trained on the boats. It had been a while since I emailed him so before we left Fort Meyers I emailed him to say we were going to be in the area. Dick came over to the boat around noon and we had a great visit. He took us to the high rent district of Naples and the houses on the water were beyond words, as I have said in the past there is some money in Florida. Dick took Lin & I to a great lunch and then to his office, some people still do work.
In his office he had a great model of a Swift Boat that he got from England and put together. Said he did not have to look at the directions as he could remember where everything was supposed to go. It was great seeing Dick again and he did not look any different then he did 11 years ago. I said to Lin before Dick came, I wonder if we will recognise each other. Guess as the eyes get older friends still look the same.
Lin & Rich
Naples City Dock
Naples, Florida
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
February 21st Day 224
Were up and ready for our trip from Fort Meyers to Naples. Fuel price was $3.40 so we decided to take on 50 gallons in our main tank. We were off the fuel dock and underway by 8:30. What a gorgeous days it was. We traveled 16 miles down river to get to the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico. Once under the 65' bridge we were in the open gulf. The Gulf was calm with just small rollers and the sun shined bright. We cruised about 5 miles off the coast past Fort Meyers Beach as we headed south. The beach was lined with high rises which broke the flat beach line. Once out in open water we set our heading at 163 magnetic and sat back for a restful sunny run. The only thing we had to watch for besides the dolphins were the crab pot markers. Would hate to ruin a beautiful day by wrapping one around our props, then I would have to have Lin go down and cut the line off while I did shark duty(right I am dreaming). We reached the river entrance at East Naples mid afternoon after 51 miles of great cruising. We traveled up river about three miles to the Naples City Docks. Just before they gave us our docking assignment Mother Nature enters the picture. You guessed it wind really picks up and they want us to stern into our berth with the high wind on our beam which by the way was pushing us toward the boat alongside us. After a few tries and Lin going from a Port to Starboard tie a few times we decided no way was it going to work. Dock hands agreed and found a dock in a more protected area of the marina. Once there we sterned in without a problem. We sure did not want to ruin a great day by being blown into another boat while docking. After getting secured in and talking to our sister-in-law Ruth who lives in Naples we headed up to town for a look see. Looked like all residential till we reached a cross street all lite up and trees all decorated with lights. Music was playing and the restaurants were full. After we checked out a few menus we figured we were in the high rent district of Naples we had heard about. Our thoughts became more clear as the streets were lined with convertible BMW's, Mercedes, and to top it off a new Bentley. After looking in the shop windows we decided we were tired and time to head back to reality and the marina. Tomorrow we will hook up with our sister-in-law for a visit.
Lin & Rich
Naples City Docks
East Naples , Florida
Lin & Rich
Naples City Docks
East Naples , Florida
Sunday, February 20, 2011
February 19th & 20th Days 222 & 223
On the 19th we got the boat ready to get underway on Monday. Lin cleaned and prepared the charts, while I did the engine checks. I also had time to wax the one upper side near the dock. We ventured over to the flea market but the only thing we purchased was a good luck bamboo plant. I also gave the fried alligator a try and it was pretty good. Lin gave it a try and thought it was good but a little chewy. They had music and kids dancing all afternoon. We brought towels over and claimed our spaces for the 7pm parade. We headed over to our spot with chairs in hand. At about 7:30 the fireworks started and was really a nice display. The parade after the fire works took a good 2 hours and was very nice. There were a couple of police motorcycle groups that put on quite a show.
Today our friends Joe and Sharon came over to see the boat and pick us up for a visit. We have not seen them in a few years and that was just a quick hello good bye at Sams. We went over to their place which is in a golf community which is really really nice with well kept grounds 2 18 hole golf courses, 8 tennis courts, and 9 pools. They treated us to brunch at the club house dinning room. It was a great brunch and as usual I had to try everything and then gave it one of those I can't believe I ate that much. Thought I might lose weight on this trip but guess I was wrong. They gave us the tour of the area and Lin was able to get the new sneakers she has needed. To top it off they took us to this orange grove store where we had the greatest ice cream. We then went back to there place for a visit and headed back to the boat around 9pm. It was a great day spent with some old(not age wise) friends.
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin(last night)
Fort Meyers, Florida
Today our friends Joe and Sharon came over to see the boat and pick us up for a visit. We have not seen them in a few years and that was just a quick hello good bye at Sams. We went over to their place which is in a golf community which is really really nice with well kept grounds 2 18 hole golf courses, 8 tennis courts, and 9 pools. They treated us to brunch at the club house dinning room. It was a great brunch and as usual I had to try everything and then gave it one of those I can't believe I ate that much. Thought I might lose weight on this trip but guess I was wrong. They gave us the tour of the area and Lin was able to get the new sneakers she has needed. To top it off they took us to this orange grove store where we had the greatest ice cream. We then went back to there place for a visit and headed back to the boat around 9pm. It was a great day spent with some old(not age wise) friends.
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin(last night)
Fort Meyers, Florida
Saturday, February 19, 2011
February 18th Day 221
Today was another great day in Florida. We did a few things around the boat and then around noon headed over to the Edison and Ford museum. It was about2 miles or so from the marina. We rode the bikes down along the river to the museum. The museum is the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. They were built in the 1800's along the Caloosahatchee River.
This river joins the Okeechobee waterway with the Gulf and their estates were right on the water. The museums were full of interesting items and facts mostly about Edison and his friendship with Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone. Edison was trying to find a way to produce rubber from plants or trees he could grow on his estate in Fort Meyers. The estates and grounds were really nice and well kept. We spent about fours hours in the museum and on the grounds. There was a India Banyan Tree which Firestone gave to Edison because the milky sap could be used in producing rubber. The tree was planted in 1925 and was 4' high and 2" in diameter. The majestic tree now an acre in diameter and has some 350 roots, it is a sight to see. There is a flea market in town for the Edison Light parade tomorrow night. There will be music all day with fireworks and parade at night. Glad we decided to stay it is suppose to be one of the biggest parades in Florida.
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Warm Fort Meyers, Florida
This river joins the Okeechobee waterway with the Gulf and their estates were right on the water. The museums were full of interesting items and facts mostly about Edison and his friendship with Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone. Edison was trying to find a way to produce rubber from plants or trees he could grow on his estate in Fort Meyers. The estates and grounds were really nice and well kept. We spent about fours hours in the museum and on the grounds. There was a India Banyan Tree which Firestone gave to Edison because the milky sap could be used in producing rubber. The tree was planted in 1925 and was 4' high and 2" in diameter. The majestic tree now an acre in diameter and has some 350 roots, it is a sight to see. There is a flea market in town for the Edison Light parade tomorrow night. There will be music all day with fireworks and parade at night. Glad we decided to stay it is suppose to be one of the biggest parades in Florida.
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Warm Fort Meyers, Florida
Thursday, February 17, 2011
February 17th Day 220
It was great having Lin home last night and knowing her heart was in great shape.
Today we took the bikes to find the Edison and Ford museum which is also their winter
houses. Tomorrow we will go to the museums which everyone says is 4 hours to see and enjoy.
We also went to a farmers market just a short way from the marina. Starting tomorrow there is a three day flea market just down from the marina and on Saturday night there is the Edison
light parade which we hear is a big deal and really nice. Looks like we will be heretill Monday and then head to Naples. On Sunday we are going to see Joe & Sharon freinds from back home who winter in Fort Meyers. Our weather is great and looks like it will be that way for the next week or so.
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Fort Meyers, Florida
Today we took the bikes to find the Edison and Ford museum which is also their winter
houses. Tomorrow we will go to the museums which everyone says is 4 hours to see and enjoy.
We also went to a farmers market just a short way from the marina. Starting tomorrow there is a three day flea market just down from the marina and on Saturday night there is the Edison
light parade which we hear is a big deal and really nice. Looks like we will be heretill Monday and then head to Naples. On Sunday we are going to see Joe & Sharon freinds from back home who winter in Fort Meyers. Our weather is great and looks like it will be that way for the next week or so.
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Fort Meyers, Florida
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
February 16th UPDATE
I PICKED UP LIN AT 9:30 PM what a relief
Sure am glad to her here home, don't know if I should let her see this
The gastric doctor came in looked at her said your heart is good so I will give you a prescription and you can have some tests when you get home. Long wait for him to show but sure glad he released her. We are also really glad that her ticker is in great shape.
Till the next time
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Fort Meyers, Florida
Sure am glad to her here home, don't know if I should let her see this
The gastric doctor came in looked at her said your heart is good so I will give you a prescription and you can have some tests when you get home. Long wait for him to show but sure glad he released her. We are also really glad that her ticker is in great shape.
Till the next time
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Fort Meyers, Florida
February 14th, 15th & 16th Days 217, 218, & 219
Belated Happy Valentines Day to you all.
Well Lin and I spent Valentine's Day in the hospital.
Lin has had some chest pain so we figured Fort Meyers being a big city
it would be a good place to check it out. After she got her hair cut on Monday
we headed to the emergency room. The place was packed but took Lin right in.
They ran some test and said they wanted to keep her overnight for observation.
Well the next day they said they forgot to to scheduled a test. Another night in the hospital.
To make things worse there were no room so she was in a holding area no TV no nothing.
Last night (15th) they had a room for her. This morning they did the last test and after the Heart doc read everything we got the good news everything was great, what a relief. The discharge doctor wanted her to see a gestural doc this afternoon before he would discharge her.
Well as of 8 tonight he was a no show. Another night apart but Lin has it worse as she is still in
the hospital. I have put many miles on my bike and on foot back and forth to see Lin, but I still have the best end of this situation. We are hoping this Doc will come tonight or early tomorrow so he can check her out and she can get out of the Hospital.
We will probably stay thru the weekend as there is a light parade Saturday night.
Lin & Rich
Lin in Lee memorial hospital
Rich in Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Fort Meyers Florida
Well Lin and I spent Valentine's Day in the hospital.
Lin has had some chest pain so we figured Fort Meyers being a big city
it would be a good place to check it out. After she got her hair cut on Monday
we headed to the emergency room. The place was packed but took Lin right in.
They ran some test and said they wanted to keep her overnight for observation.
Well the next day they said they forgot to to scheduled a test. Another night in the hospital.
To make things worse there were no room so she was in a holding area no TV no nothing.
Last night (15th) they had a room for her. This morning they did the last test and after the Heart doc read everything we got the good news everything was great, what a relief. The discharge doctor wanted her to see a gestural doc this afternoon before he would discharge her.
Well as of 8 tonight he was a no show. Another night apart but Lin has it worse as she is still in
the hospital. I have put many miles on my bike and on foot back and forth to see Lin, but I still have the best end of this situation. We are hoping this Doc will come tonight or early tomorrow so he can check her out and she can get out of the Hospital.
We will probably stay thru the weekend as there is a light parade Saturday night.
Lin & Rich
Lin in Lee memorial hospital
Rich in Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Fort Meyers Florida
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
February 13th Day 216
Today is Sunday and we found a great Methodist Church just a few blocks from the marina. The service was great and the people were really friendly. Lin's ears really perked up when the director of the Church's preschool program spoke on the school and what they are doing.
After the service we walked around downtown . Jon and Nancy Bergman(went to high school and played hockey with John) came and picked us up at the marina. We went to their house in Cape Coral' They have a great house with one of the many canals in their back yard. We had a great visit and a nice dinner out. They took us to two other marinas in the area which were really nice. This area of Florida has a lot to offer. Lin & I will stay a few more days as there is a Ford and Edison museums in the area. Our weather here is just great in the 70's and the next week looks just as good. We really feel bad for all you in the snow and cold. But are sure glad we are here and the weather is warming up
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Fort Meyers, Florida
After the service we walked around downtown . Jon and Nancy Bergman(went to high school and played hockey with John) came and picked us up at the marina. We went to their house in Cape Coral' They have a great house with one of the many canals in their back yard. We had a great visit and a nice dinner out. They took us to two other marinas in the area which were really nice. This area of Florida has a lot to offer. Lin & I will stay a few more days as there is a Ford and Edison museums in the area. Our weather here is just great in the 70's and the next week looks just as good. We really feel bad for all you in the snow and cold. But are sure glad we are here and the weather is warming up
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Fort Meyers, Florida
Saturday, February 12, 2011
February 12th Day 215
This morning was windy with winds of 20 knots. The tide was out and with the high winds we were trying to decide whether to move or stay another day. Around noon we decided to make the move. Off the dock in high winds we were able to turn Goofin Off around in the tight spot and head out the narrow canal. Once back on the GIWW we felt much better and glad we headed out. It was an overcast day with just a lite chop. We went a few areas where the dolphins were in pods feeding it was quite the site. We reached Fort Meyers Yacht Basin at 4pm after 36 miles.
We touched base with a friend from high school who I played hockey with. They are coming down to pick us up tomorrow for dinner. Also talked with friends from our town who now winter in Fort Meyers. We will try to get together with them on Monday if that works out for them.
We are not sure how long we are going to stay here but may stop at Fort Meyers Beach before heading to Naples.
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Fort Meyers, Florida
We touched base with a friend from high school who I played hockey with. They are coming down to pick us up tomorrow for dinner. Also talked with friends from our town who now winter in Fort Meyers. We will try to get together with them on Monday if that works out for them.
We are not sure how long we are going to stay here but may stop at Fort Meyers Beach before heading to Naples.
Lin & Rich
Fort Meyers Yacht Basin
Fort Meyers, Florida
Friday, February 11, 2011
February 10th & 11th Days 213 & 214
On the 10th we were going to walk the beach and visit the town of Venice. We were up pretty early and Lin was going to clean the boat so I decided to take the bike and venture the 2.5 miles to town to the hardware store to get some fittings for the external water filter system. Nice ride in and got all the parts I needed. Started the ride back enjoying the morning and the nice houses, then it started to get dark first a lite rain then I got the full force of a Florida rain. I was about a mile from the boat and in that mile I was soaked. Lin was waiting for me with towel in hand, she thought about a nice SCOTCH but luckily she did not otherwise the day would have been shot. Rest of the day went well we emptied our water tank and re filtered all the water. It is hard with so many different water systems. The marina had a great restaurant which we enjoyed.
On the 11th we were up and ready to head out we had to wait for another boat to pump out and fuel before we could get fuel and pump out. It was foggy and cloudy all day but the ride was nice. There was one bridge that only opens on the hour and half hour, we were nice and let 6 boats to do slow pass which caused us to miss the opening, oh well who has a schedule? We planned on staying at Cabbage Key Marina, well Lin & I kidded all day about CABBAGE PATCH marina.
Well when I turned off the GIWW I called on the radio CABBAGE PATCH MARINA this is Goofin Off once he heard our boats name he understood.
As we got in the wind was strong and pushing us off the dock Lin gave him the bow line and I told him CLEAT IT well he knew better and wrapped it loose. No way was I getting the stern in with out a good bow wrap. Needless to say he had to pull his guts out to get us in. I am sure other captains have the same frustration when the dock hand or Dock Master as they are called know more than you do on how your boat handles. It was a nail biter but as luck has it we made it in safe and sound. Tomorrow we will travel to Ft Meyers where we will spend a few days before we head to Naples to visit our Sister-in law.
Lin& Rich
Cabbage Key Marina
Cabbage Key Florida
On the 11th we were up and ready to head out we had to wait for another boat to pump out and fuel before we could get fuel and pump out. It was foggy and cloudy all day but the ride was nice. There was one bridge that only opens on the hour and half hour, we were nice and let 6 boats to do slow pass which caused us to miss the opening, oh well who has a schedule? We planned on staying at Cabbage Key Marina, well Lin & I kidded all day about CABBAGE PATCH marina.
Well when I turned off the GIWW I called on the radio CABBAGE PATCH MARINA this is Goofin Off once he heard our boats name he understood.
As we got in the wind was strong and pushing us off the dock Lin gave him the bow line and I told him CLEAT IT well he knew better and wrapped it loose. No way was I getting the stern in with out a good bow wrap. Needless to say he had to pull his guts out to get us in. I am sure other captains have the same frustration when the dock hand or Dock Master as they are called know more than you do on how your boat handles. It was a nail biter but as luck has it we made it in safe and sound. Tomorrow we will travel to Ft Meyers where we will spend a few days before we head to Naples to visit our Sister-in law.
Lin& Rich
Cabbage Key Marina
Cabbage Key Florida
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
February 9th Day 212
Today was a great weather wise . We were up and got the boat ready to get underway. We left the Marina at 9:30 under sunny skies and arrived at our destination at 3:15 after 44.3 miles. We traveled the 7 miles out the Manatee River to reconnect with the GIWW. The inter coastal in this area is very beautiful. Some people swim with the dolphins and Lin & I BOAT with the dolphins. There were dolphins every where we went today. We went by some homes today that Lin & I considered them mansions. They are even building new ones so the economy must be good somewhere. There was alot of little waterways with houses on both sides and boats in the waterway. We saw a lot of boat traffic today and only two did not know boat courtesy and really waked us in the narrow channel.
We are at the Crow's Nest Marina in Venice. It is just off the Gulf which we can see from the inlet. If the Gulf gets rough this would not be a very protected place. They have bikes here so we took a couple and rode into town about 2 miles. We will have to wait and see how our bodies feel in the morning. We are only a few hundred yards from the Venice beach on the Gulf. We took a walk over there and probably walked a mile or so down the beach. One reason we went that far was there was no way to get off the beach all hotels with no trespassing. We finally came across the public access and got out onto the road. It is a real nice beach. We will stay at least tomorrow night so we can check out the town tomorrow. Total mileage to date 3,782 miles.
We are at the Crow's Nest Marina in Venice. It is just off the Gulf which we can see from the inlet. If the Gulf gets rough this would not be a very protected place. They have bikes here so we took a couple and rode into town about 2 miles. We will have to wait and see how our bodies feel in the morning. We are only a few hundred yards from the Venice beach on the Gulf. We took a walk over there and probably walked a mile or so down the beach. One reason we went that far was there was no way to get off the beach all hotels with no trespassing. We finally came across the public access and got out onto the road. It is a real nice beach. We will stay at least tomorrow night so we can check out the town tomorrow. Total mileage to date 3,782 miles.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
February 8th Day 211
We had some real strong winds last night with gusts up in the 30 knot range. It made for a rough night and a lot of noisy lines. We got up a few times to adjust and check lines, everything was fine but it still is hard to sleep. Today the winds are still in the mid to high teens so we decided to stay here one more day instead of a rough ride to our next port. We have changed plans after doing some research on Sarasota and will bypass that port and head to Venice next. It is about 35 miles from here and hope the weather will allow us to travel tomorrow. Sarasota had some nice museums but nothing that caught our eye as a do not miss. Here at Twin Dolphins we just changed to a weekly rate so if need be we can stay another two days without paying. We have seen everything there is to see here and have walked all the streets. Now our stay will be up to King Neptune and Mother Nature.
Lin & Rich
Twin Dolphin Marina
Manatee River, Florida
Lin & Rich
Twin Dolphin Marina
Manatee River, Florida
Monday, February 7, 2011
February 5th 6th & 7th Days 208 209 & 210
On the 5th we headed up to the farmers market. It was a real nice market just up the street from the marina. We got some bananas, grapefruit, kiwi, broccoli, and stone crabs. The stone crabs are great never had them before.. They trap them and take one claw off, if it meets the size. They then return the crab to the gulf, within two years the crab will grow a new claw. They are sweeter than lobster and have a softer texture. You have to break the shell or I did with a hammer. We also went to the South Florida Museum which we spent 4 hours at. They have the oldest manatee in captivity in the world. Snooty was born July 1948 he is quite the showman. We watched a feeding and he eats out of the trainers hand. They also taught him to roll over so the vet can check him out. The rest of the museum had real interesting displays they kept us interested.
Yesterday the 6th Lin cleaned and organized the boat while I installed reserve engine coolant containers. This will make the pre-underway check of the engine coolant much easier. It will save me getting between the engine coolant tank and the bottom of the salon floor and trying to see down the tanks cap. It was pretty nice and we had time before the Super Bowl so I washed the boat to get some salt off. Football time, we cooked London broil, salt potatoes and salad, not the typical super bowl food of wings and pizza but it was sure good. Finally after many years of running and being in the gun club's super bowl Lin & I hit the third quarter score. So today we will stay here at Twin Dolphins and celebrate our win with pizza and beer at the local Italian restaurant. We decided to stay today as it is supposed to rain most of the day with heavier rain this afternoon. Tomorrow we will head out if the weather gets better. Our next stop will be in Sarasota and we may visit the Ringling Museum, time will tell. We may decided to bypass Sarasota and head to Venice(Florida that is), again nice not having a fixed plan
Lin & Rich
Savoring our super bowl win
Twin Dolpin Marina
Manatee River
Yesterday the 6th Lin cleaned and organized the boat while I installed reserve engine coolant containers. This will make the pre-underway check of the engine coolant much easier. It will save me getting between the engine coolant tank and the bottom of the salon floor and trying to see down the tanks cap. It was pretty nice and we had time before the Super Bowl so I washed the boat to get some salt off. Football time, we cooked London broil, salt potatoes and salad, not the typical super bowl food of wings and pizza but it was sure good. Finally after many years of running and being in the gun club's super bowl Lin & I hit the third quarter score. So today we will stay here at Twin Dolphins and celebrate our win with pizza and beer at the local Italian restaurant. We decided to stay today as it is supposed to rain most of the day with heavier rain this afternoon. Tomorrow we will head out if the weather gets better. Our next stop will be in Sarasota and we may visit the Ringling Museum, time will tell. We may decided to bypass Sarasota and head to Venice(Florida that is), again nice not having a fixed plan
Lin & Rich
Savoring our super bowl win
Twin Dolpin Marina
Manatee River
Saturday, February 5, 2011
February 4th Day 207
Today was a great day in the Sunshine State(finally). It reached the 80 degree mark today.
We were going to borrow the bikes here and head to West Marine and the hardware store. Well when we asked the dock master for the bikes he said would you rather use a car. With out hesitation we both said yes in unison. He let us use his car which was a NEW Mercedes, what a ride. Now we got this new car, not sure where we are going and in heavy traffic. We made it with out problems. When we went to the store we parked the car out in the middle of nowhere and when we came out there were cars all around the car, no dents or scratches. Got back to the marina without problems. It was good he let us use his car as the store was 6 miles one way. We figured our legs and behinds would have taken a few days to recoup after that distance. We made a filter system to filter water from the dock into the tank. This will give us dual filtration before we use the water. Buying drinking water gets expensive and some places or when at anchor don't have water to buy. Thought about using the pool today but time ran out. It is great being able to have the heat off and the windows open.
Lin & Rich
Twin Dolphin Marina
Manatee River
We were going to borrow the bikes here and head to West Marine and the hardware store. Well when we asked the dock master for the bikes he said would you rather use a car. With out hesitation we both said yes in unison. He let us use his car which was a NEW Mercedes, what a ride. Now we got this new car, not sure where we are going and in heavy traffic. We made it with out problems. When we went to the store we parked the car out in the middle of nowhere and when we came out there were cars all around the car, no dents or scratches. Got back to the marina without problems. It was good he let us use his car as the store was 6 miles one way. We figured our legs and behinds would have taken a few days to recoup after that distance. We made a filter system to filter water from the dock into the tank. This will give us dual filtration before we use the water. Buying drinking water gets expensive and some places or when at anchor don't have water to buy. Thought about using the pool today but time ran out. It is great being able to have the heat off and the windows open.
Lin & Rich
Twin Dolphin Marina
Manatee River
Friday, February 4, 2011
February 3rd Day 206
Today we left Gulfport at 11:30 after the fog lifted. It was a hazy warm day and Tampa Bay was calm. We went into Tampa Bay and did not use the cut which would have saved 6 miles. The cut had some low water and we were traveling at low tide and did not want to push our luck.
We passed under the Sunshine Bridge which was another reason to take the long route.
Unfortunately it was hazy when we went under the bridge but the camera was still clicking.Oh forgot just before the bridge a Coast Guard Cutter was approaching us and called to say he would pass us on the one whistle(for non boaters that means a port(left side) to port pass. Well that happened but needles to say a cutter does not do a slow pass(no wake) so after they went by we turned into their wake and went for a ride. Luckily nothing came off the counters.
We followed the GIWW to the entrance to the Manatee River and followed the markers to the marina. The river is really wide but shallow out of the channel. The Twin Dolphin Marina is huge and has floating concrete docks. We had to back in between pillions but are getting used to it as Lin is at the stern guiding me in as I can not see the back of the boat. Today we traveled 32.3 miles in 4 hours for a total of 3,738 miles. Walked uptown and had a nice Stromboli not as good as the ones at Tracey's in Pa., but good.
Lin & Rich
Twin Dolphin Marina
Manatee River, Florida
We passed under the Sunshine Bridge which was another reason to take the long route.
Unfortunately it was hazy when we went under the bridge but the camera was still clicking.Oh forgot just before the bridge a Coast Guard Cutter was approaching us and called to say he would pass us on the one whistle(for non boaters that means a port(left side) to port pass. Well that happened but needles to say a cutter does not do a slow pass(no wake) so after they went by we turned into their wake and went for a ride. Luckily nothing came off the counters.
We followed the GIWW to the entrance to the Manatee River and followed the markers to the marina. The river is really wide but shallow out of the channel. The Twin Dolphin Marina is huge and has floating concrete docks. We had to back in between pillions but are getting used to it as Lin is at the stern guiding me in as I can not see the back of the boat. Today we traveled 32.3 miles in 4 hours for a total of 3,738 miles. Walked uptown and had a nice Stromboli not as good as the ones at Tracey's in Pa., but good.
Lin & Rich
Twin Dolphin Marina
Manatee River, Florida
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
February 2nd Day 205
Today was another warm day, it was overcast but had a nice warm breeze.
We decided it would be a good Goofin Off maintenance day. I changed all the fuel filters and the foam air filter. We changed the water filters and checked the air pressure pump. We cleaned the shower pumps and drains. All fluids are checked and in good shape. We walked up town and got a few supplies and we picked up fill tanks to attach to the engine water system. It is hard checking the coolant in the system but theses tanks should make it easier. Not sure what tomorrow will bring we may make a move either to St. Petersburgh or farther down to the Manatee River. Time and weather will help us make our minds up maybe. Nice not having a schedule to meet or a place to be.
We hope all our Northern friends survived the storm with out problems. Could have been making some money plowing this winter but I DO NOT MISS IT. We are enjoying our adventure even during the tough times weather wise or mechanical wise.
Lin & Rich
Gulfport Municipal Marina
We decided it would be a good Goofin Off maintenance day. I changed all the fuel filters and the foam air filter. We changed the water filters and checked the air pressure pump. We cleaned the shower pumps and drains. All fluids are checked and in good shape. We walked up town and got a few supplies and we picked up fill tanks to attach to the engine water system. It is hard checking the coolant in the system but theses tanks should make it easier. Not sure what tomorrow will bring we may make a move either to St. Petersburgh or farther down to the Manatee River. Time and weather will help us make our minds up maybe. Nice not having a schedule to meet or a place to be.
We hope all our Northern friends survived the storm with out problems. Could have been making some money plowing this winter but I DO NOT MISS IT. We are enjoying our adventure even during the tough times weather wise or mechanical wise.
Lin & Rich
Gulfport Municipal Marina
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
February 1st Day 204
Today was another sunny warm day. We felt bad for all of you who are waiting for the big storm.
As I write this at 8:30 pm it is still 67 degrees outside. Today we worked on and fixed a fresh water pressure problem we had. It was a long difficult job but we think and hope the problem is fixed, only time will tell. Tomorrow we will change the fuel filters both racor and canisters just in case that was the problem with the engine. Today we went to a real nice farmers market uptown. The weather was great and in the high 70's, this is the Florida weather we expected and hope it sticks around. With the big storm up North we are going to get some showers but nothing major. Not sure where we will head next or when we will head out. We will wait and see about the rain, it sure is nice not to have a set schedule.
Lin & Rich
Gulfport Municaple Marina
As I write this at 8:30 pm it is still 67 degrees outside. Today we worked on and fixed a fresh water pressure problem we had. It was a long difficult job but we think and hope the problem is fixed, only time will tell. Tomorrow we will change the fuel filters both racor and canisters just in case that was the problem with the engine. Today we went to a real nice farmers market uptown. The weather was great and in the high 70's, this is the Florida weather we expected and hope it sticks around. With the big storm up North we are going to get some showers but nothing major. Not sure where we will head next or when we will head out. We will wait and see about the rain, it sure is nice not to have a set schedule.
Lin & Rich
Gulfport Municaple Marina
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