Fri Jan 30,2015
Ceasars Creek, Elliot Key
Florida
We started off with bacon, eggs, bagels and cream cheese. Sun was bright, weather was perfect and we had slept like babies. A day that starts like that is hard pressed to get better, but it did. We expected no wind or what there was off our stern. The pleasant surprise was we got wind on our beam at 8-11 and seas less than a ft. We motored until we got out of Biscayne Bay then put up our sails when we saw we had wind and from a good direction. We sailed over aqua water in gentle winds with perfect temperatures and no heeling, well almost no heeling. It was the most relaxing enjoyable sail I have ever had, bar none. If every day on a sail boat was like that I would cruise as a life style.
We anchored between clumps of mangroves in Ceasars Creek around 3;30. We were just doing drinks and the fly in the ointment arrived. Or rather the no see ums. Fortunately it was not so hot we couldn't close the hatches and ports and go below. I got several bites before we got closed up. Hate those little suckers. I was going to grill prime steaks tonight but no way with the bugs.
Plans now are to stay here tomorrow and tomorrow night, but plans change on a dime so we will see.
And yes everybody I AM HAVING FUN NOW.
Voyages of Sea Turtle
Friday, January 30, 2015
Thursday, January 29, 2015
Last Day in Ft Lauderdale
Wed Jan 28,2015
Ft Lauderdale
Las Olas Marina
Today I washed the boat while I still had shore water. Washed the laundry while I still had a laundromat at my disposal, and even cleaned all the real glass and plastic glass. We topped off the water and Mark brought Lee 2 jerry jugs of diesel and we filled 2 jerry jugs of water so hopefully even though it will be a while before we have ready access to either we will be ok.
Mark and Lee returned the borrowed car and took a trolley back to the marina at about the same Judy and I were finishing the laundry. It was getting late and we were all hungry so we took a suggestion our friend David Canty made to walk to Coconuts which is only a couple of blocks from the marina. It has a dinghy dock so Handleys took their dinghy and we walked. It was very busy and we had to wait a while to get seated. The food was worth the wait. It was good and plentiful. No one went away hungry or disappointed. Thanks for the tip David.
We knew it was going to be a early morning so we checked the news and weather and turned in earlier than usual.
Ft Lauderdale
Las Olas Marina
Today I washed the boat while I still had shore water. Washed the laundry while I still had a laundromat at my disposal, and even cleaned all the real glass and plastic glass. We topped off the water and Mark brought Lee 2 jerry jugs of diesel and we filled 2 jerry jugs of water so hopefully even though it will be a while before we have ready access to either we will be ok.
Mark and Lee returned the borrowed car and took a trolley back to the marina at about the same Judy and I were finishing the laundry. It was getting late and we were all hungry so we took a suggestion our friend David Canty made to walk to Coconuts which is only a couple of blocks from the marina. It has a dinghy dock so Handleys took their dinghy and we walked. It was very busy and we had to wait a while to get seated. The food was worth the wait. It was good and plentiful. No one went away hungry or disappointed. Thanks for the tip David.
We knew it was going to be a early morning so we checked the news and weather and turned in earlier than usual.
Off Again
Fri. Jan 29,2015
Coconut Grove, FL
We left Ft Lauderdale and Las Olas Marina about 7 this morning. We went out the inlet with the wind going one direction and the tide going the other. If you are a sailor you know that means a bumpy ride. We headed south about 2 miles off shore to a pretty bumpy ride still for about an hour or so. We had decent wind 12-13 knts,but not always a good direction. We put up the main and motor sailed for the first hour or so. The seas eventually calmed some and we put up the jib too and turned off the motor. We were getting better than 5knots and speed over ground better than that. It took 5 hrs off shore to get to the port of Miami ,another 2 hours to get to our anchorage for the night. .
Miami was a very busy place. The channel long and twisty. Mark and Judy went aground once briefly but came off. We came to the marina but had to anchor as no moorings or slips were available. We dinghied to the dinghy dock and walked a bit into town. There is a swanky little section called Coco Way with expensive little shops of one kind and another. Nothing up my alley so we came back to our boats. After a little drink we ate and are taking it easy.
Plans are to go about 30 miles tomorrow and stay at Ceasars Creek. It is a protected anchorage and day after tomorrow is looking bad enough we will probably stay put right there for the day.
Coconut Grove, FL
We left Ft Lauderdale and Las Olas Marina about 7 this morning. We went out the inlet with the wind going one direction and the tide going the other. If you are a sailor you know that means a bumpy ride. We headed south about 2 miles off shore to a pretty bumpy ride still for about an hour or so. We had decent wind 12-13 knts,but not always a good direction. We put up the main and motor sailed for the first hour or so. The seas eventually calmed some and we put up the jib too and turned off the motor. We were getting better than 5knots and speed over ground better than that. It took 5 hrs off shore to get to the port of Miami ,another 2 hours to get to our anchorage for the night. .
Miami was a very busy place. The channel long and twisty. Mark and Judy went aground once briefly but came off. We came to the marina but had to anchor as no moorings or slips were available. We dinghied to the dinghy dock and walked a bit into town. There is a swanky little section called Coco Way with expensive little shops of one kind and another. Nothing up my alley so we came back to our boats. After a little drink we ate and are taking it easy.
Plans are to go about 30 miles tomorrow and stay at Ceasars Creek. It is a protected anchorage and day after tomorrow is looking bad enough we will probably stay put right there for the day.
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Shop Til You Drop
Tues Jan 27, 2015
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
60s windy and sunny. Handleys arrived around 10;20 and we were off to Holly Cross hospital for Marks dr. appointment. Everyone stopped at the cafe in the hospital and got a morning munchie. We waited in an outdoor area near a pretty fountain until Mark finished and then we were off to shop.
We hit Trader Joes, Whole Foods, Costco, Walmart, Home Depot, the Apple store in the mall, and Handleys hit Publix while we were at the Apple store. Knowing that the luxury of a car was soon to be off the table we tried to leave no store unshopped. It was quite a drive to some of them too. We were not able to find everything we were hunting but got most of it. We got back to Sea Turtle around 5 tired and thirsty. A few beers fixed that for everyone else and a coke for me.
Plans change and you have to be flexible. The guests Handleys were planning to have aboard had to cancel so that left our schedule more open. Of course there is always the weather factor. There is supposed to be a week long rain coming here in a few day.. Mark and Judy have much more experience watching long range forecasts and they have Mark's treatment schedule to take into account so they are doing the planning on when and where, which is fine with us. That is a big part of the work in planning cruising. Our longest solo cruise was 24 days and I know how much work that the route planning and anchorage hunting etc. was for us. We have exceeded that already on this trip and are glad to have that burden fall mostly on Handleys.
Wed. will be clean the boat day while we have water at the dock, do the laundry and get things tied down to go off shore. If I have time do some advance cooking and then freeze it for eating underway I will do that. It can be challenging to cook when you are bobbing and bouncing underway.
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
60s windy and sunny. Handleys arrived around 10;20 and we were off to Holly Cross hospital for Marks dr. appointment. Everyone stopped at the cafe in the hospital and got a morning munchie. We waited in an outdoor area near a pretty fountain until Mark finished and then we were off to shop.
We hit Trader Joes, Whole Foods, Costco, Walmart, Home Depot, the Apple store in the mall, and Handleys hit Publix while we were at the Apple store. Knowing that the luxury of a car was soon to be off the table we tried to leave no store unshopped. It was quite a drive to some of them too. We were not able to find everything we were hunting but got most of it. We got back to Sea Turtle around 5 tired and thirsty. A few beers fixed that for everyone else and a coke for me.
Plans change and you have to be flexible. The guests Handleys were planning to have aboard had to cancel so that left our schedule more open. Of course there is always the weather factor. There is supposed to be a week long rain coming here in a few day.. Mark and Judy have much more experience watching long range forecasts and they have Mark's treatment schedule to take into account so they are doing the planning on when and where, which is fine with us. That is a big part of the work in planning cruising. Our longest solo cruise was 24 days and I know how much work that the route planning and anchorage hunting etc. was for us. We have exceeded that already on this trip and are glad to have that burden fall mostly on Handleys.
Wed. will be clean the boat day while we have water at the dock, do the laundry and get things tied down to go off shore. If I have time do some advance cooking and then freeze it for eating underway I will do that. It can be challenging to cook when you are bobbing and bouncing underway.
Monday, January 26, 2015
Dinghy Day
Monday Jan 26, 2015
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
We woke up to a cool but sunny day. Waited all morning for the dinghy fix it guy to call and let us know when he was coming. We finally called him after lunch and he said his man would come fix it at 4. It was about 1 so when Mark and Judy asked if we wanted to take a car ride to the grocery store we said yes if we could be back by 4.
In the mean time we found out when your heater and hot water are both turned on your inverter objects and throw its breaker. Which causes your shore power to shut off and you to crawl under your mattress to reset it. Live and learn.
A sudden heavy rain passed by about 1:30 and the sun came out bright like it never happened. None of our newly water repelled canvas leaked. Shortly after that Handleys arrived, filled water tanks and off we went. Got most of the stuff we needed pretty quickly while Mark and Lee went to CVS to get hair clippers. I tried to cut Lee's hair with scissors and a comb. Unfortunately it looked like a blind person attacked him with scissors. Tomorrow I will try to mitigate the damage.
After checking out at the grocery store we all stopped at Cold Stone Creamery. I have been craving ice cream for a month. (no pickles tho) Enjoyed my ice cream and waffle cone dipped in chocolate. Yummmm, We then all headed off to the marina, We invited Handleys to stay a while but like us they had things that needed to be put in the frig or freezer.
Tomorrow Mark has a short Dr appointment before he has his treatment Wed. So we are all going and heading to Costco and Trader Joes, stocking up for the trip to the keys and up the gulf side to Ft Myers.
Lee noted the wind had gotten in the 30s while we were gone. Between that and our sunny day the wind and solar panels have our batteries full. Looks like all the hassle and expense will have been worth it.
The dinghy guy finally came. His boss is a Russian named Sylvio and the worker who came was a Cuban. Talked alot about the recent changes between our 2 countries. About family in Cuba and what they earn in a year, $300 for an engineer. Interesting conversation. He blew up the tube tight and glued it with instant set glue. We shall see how it holds up.
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
We woke up to a cool but sunny day. Waited all morning for the dinghy fix it guy to call and let us know when he was coming. We finally called him after lunch and he said his man would come fix it at 4. It was about 1 so when Mark and Judy asked if we wanted to take a car ride to the grocery store we said yes if we could be back by 4.
In the mean time we found out when your heater and hot water are both turned on your inverter objects and throw its breaker. Which causes your shore power to shut off and you to crawl under your mattress to reset it. Live and learn.
A sudden heavy rain passed by about 1:30 and the sun came out bright like it never happened. None of our newly water repelled canvas leaked. Shortly after that Handleys arrived, filled water tanks and off we went. Got most of the stuff we needed pretty quickly while Mark and Lee went to CVS to get hair clippers. I tried to cut Lee's hair with scissors and a comb. Unfortunately it looked like a blind person attacked him with scissors. Tomorrow I will try to mitigate the damage.
After checking out at the grocery store we all stopped at Cold Stone Creamery. I have been craving ice cream for a month. (no pickles tho) Enjoyed my ice cream and waffle cone dipped in chocolate. Yummmm, We then all headed off to the marina, We invited Handleys to stay a while but like us they had things that needed to be put in the frig or freezer.
Tomorrow Mark has a short Dr appointment before he has his treatment Wed. So we are all going and heading to Costco and Trader Joes, stocking up for the trip to the keys and up the gulf side to Ft Myers.
Lee noted the wind had gotten in the 30s while we were gone. Between that and our sunny day the wind and solar panels have our batteries full. Looks like all the hassle and expense will have been worth it.
The dinghy guy finally came. His boss is a Russian named Sylvio and the worker who came was a Cuban. Talked alot about the recent changes between our 2 countries. About family in Cuba and what they earn in a year, $300 for an engineer. Interesting conversation. He blew up the tube tight and glued it with instant set glue. We shall see how it holds up.
Sunshine and Lollipops
Sunday Jan 26, 2015
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
Today was all cloudless sunny sky. Cool, never out of the 60s. We removed all the canvas but the roof panels, which we had treated while we had that collapsed to mount the solar panels. The rest we laid out on the dock today and sprayed with water repellent. The tricky part is putting sheets under each panel to protect it from the dock and covering every bit of window/eisen glass so the spray does not get on it. We did that and left the panels to dry. The only problem is we are in an area where we get lots of wake from passing boats and the water splashed up on one panel and left a white looking area every where it touched. I scrubbed it and hope it will not show up too much on the navy fabric as time goes by. We left those to dry and read books. Tough life. After they dried we put them back on and benefited from the bright sun. Love the greenhouse effect on a chilly day. Blessing Jack of Sunset Canvas. Getting everything zipped and buckled and snapped back is always a pain. In fact there are a couple of buckles on a slant that we never did get done. The material shrunk---that is my story and I am sticking to it. LOL
Got a call for Terri who just got back from a Caribbean cruise with our friend Bonnie. Nice to go to warm climes in the middle of winter. Also nice to get back to your pups and own bed. Glad she could go, but missed our daily chats like crazy. I had Terri withdrawal. She keeps me grounded.
A nice cabin cruiser came in next to us this afternoon. The couple came in to register while Lee was paying our way out since we will be leaving Thurs. morning. They had a golden retriever and we are a sucker for them. Lee had to admire the dog. Later they and we took pics of the most gorgeous pink sunset. We really kind of took the day off so that is about the extent of things.
Oh, there weren't really any lollipops
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
Today was all cloudless sunny sky. Cool, never out of the 60s. We removed all the canvas but the roof panels, which we had treated while we had that collapsed to mount the solar panels. The rest we laid out on the dock today and sprayed with water repellent. The tricky part is putting sheets under each panel to protect it from the dock and covering every bit of window/eisen glass so the spray does not get on it. We did that and left the panels to dry. The only problem is we are in an area where we get lots of wake from passing boats and the water splashed up on one panel and left a white looking area every where it touched. I scrubbed it and hope it will not show up too much on the navy fabric as time goes by. We left those to dry and read books. Tough life. After they dried we put them back on and benefited from the bright sun. Love the greenhouse effect on a chilly day. Blessing Jack of Sunset Canvas. Getting everything zipped and buckled and snapped back is always a pain. In fact there are a couple of buckles on a slant that we never did get done. The material shrunk---that is my story and I am sticking to it. LOL
Got a call for Terri who just got back from a Caribbean cruise with our friend Bonnie. Nice to go to warm climes in the middle of winter. Also nice to get back to your pups and own bed. Glad she could go, but missed our daily chats like crazy. I had Terri withdrawal. She keeps me grounded.
A nice cabin cruiser came in next to us this afternoon. The couple came in to register while Lee was paying our way out since we will be leaving Thurs. morning. They had a golden retriever and we are a sucker for them. Lee had to admire the dog. Later they and we took pics of the most gorgeous pink sunset. We really kind of took the day off so that is about the extent of things.
Oh, there weren't really any lollipops
Sunday, January 25, 2015
Two for One
Fri and Sat Jan 23 and 24
Fri
.The guys worked on completing the solar panels and Judy and I did laundry. Then we all walked a couple of blocks to lunch at the Quarter Deck. After lunch Judy and I explored Fort Lauderdale via the city bus. For 85 cents it is quite a bargain. We found a library, an art museum, and a nice mall. I bought a couple of things for Lee at the mall. What we were hunting for was a decent city map at a tourist information center which does not seem to exist. Handleys had been stopped for speeding in their dinghy on the way to our boat in the morning, which seems absurd considering how people fly through here at the bridge throwing wake that can knock us all over the place. They will travel slower.
Sat
We started out in the afternoon for Blue Water Books. It was dreary and rainy in the morning and not good weather for Handleys to dinghy the almost mile to our boat ,so, they waited till afternoon to come . Unfortunately when we found the place it closed on Sat at 1. It was after 1. Judy suggested we drive south to explore a couple of possibilities for anchorages for our next stop. We stopped first at Coconut Grove to check out Dinner Key Marina. They are huge and booked way in advance but they put us on a waiting list for the day we wanted and promised to call if a mooring came up. You can anchor around where the moorings are at any rate. The plus to them is that you can dinghy in and there is no charge for leaving the dinghy and they have water and fuel. The next stop was No Name Harbor in Bill Bagg Cape State park. in Biscayne Bay. It was really a big puddle and crowded, had no facilities, fuel, water or anything but a pump out and an overpriced mediocre restaurant. They even charged $8 to drive in an look at it and $2 if you walk in.
We got back to Sea Turtle about dusk and Handleys had to dinghy back to Windbird in the dark with Judy holding the red/green running light in her hand. I was tired and Lee fixed an out of a can dinner.
Our battery charger was acting weird but it was too dark to check outside and Lee thought the problem was at the marinas post .We will see about that tomorrow and get the canvas water repellent treated.
Fri
.The guys worked on completing the solar panels and Judy and I did laundry. Then we all walked a couple of blocks to lunch at the Quarter Deck. After lunch Judy and I explored Fort Lauderdale via the city bus. For 85 cents it is quite a bargain. We found a library, an art museum, and a nice mall. I bought a couple of things for Lee at the mall. What we were hunting for was a decent city map at a tourist information center which does not seem to exist. Handleys had been stopped for speeding in their dinghy on the way to our boat in the morning, which seems absurd considering how people fly through here at the bridge throwing wake that can knock us all over the place. They will travel slower.
Sat
We started out in the afternoon for Blue Water Books. It was dreary and rainy in the morning and not good weather for Handleys to dinghy the almost mile to our boat ,so, they waited till afternoon to come . Unfortunately when we found the place it closed on Sat at 1. It was after 1. Judy suggested we drive south to explore a couple of possibilities for anchorages for our next stop. We stopped first at Coconut Grove to check out Dinner Key Marina. They are huge and booked way in advance but they put us on a waiting list for the day we wanted and promised to call if a mooring came up. You can anchor around where the moorings are at any rate. The plus to them is that you can dinghy in and there is no charge for leaving the dinghy and they have water and fuel. The next stop was No Name Harbor in Bill Bagg Cape State park. in Biscayne Bay. It was really a big puddle and crowded, had no facilities, fuel, water or anything but a pump out and an overpriced mediocre restaurant. They even charged $8 to drive in an look at it and $2 if you walk in.
We got back to Sea Turtle about dusk and Handleys had to dinghy back to Windbird in the dark with Judy holding the red/green running light in her hand. I was tired and Lee fixed an out of a can dinner.
Our battery charger was acting weird but it was too dark to check outside and Lee thought the problem was at the marinas post .We will see about that tomorrow and get the canvas water repellent treated.
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Another Work Day
Thursday Jan 22, 2015
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
Today we resumed the solar cell work. All 3 cells are up, wiring partially completed and will be finished tomorrow and controllers installed. We hope tomorrow will finish that project. The sump pump for the shower is still a project. Lee worked on it a bit this evening and now thinks that the pump is not but the float switch is the problem. Hopefully West Marine will take the pump back and we can get a float switch and have that problem solved too. Will see tomorrow.
Today was upper 70s. partly cloudy and humid. Can't believe it is January. We went to a Winn Dixie and a hardware store for a hole saw drill bit. But other than that and lunch at The Quarter Deck we stayed at the boat all day. This is the second time we have eaten at this restaurant. Today we had Dolphin Reuben, not Flipper, mahi mahi, It sounds weird but tasted delicious. Mark got shrimp taco and onion rings which was really good too.
Tomorrow Judy and I may take a bus/trolley ride around to see what goes where and get a little more familiar with the public transportation here. I want to get the canvas treated with water repellent while we have most of it off. So may depend on how far along I get on that project.
As of now we are thinking we may leave Thurs and head for Biscayne Bay. Weather permitting. We have to go off shore because Mark and Judy can't get under one of the fixed bridges. We have gotten a lot of necessary things done and will get a few more done before we leave Las Olas. Probably will not be in a marina again for a while once we leave here.
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
Today we resumed the solar cell work. All 3 cells are up, wiring partially completed and will be finished tomorrow and controllers installed. We hope tomorrow will finish that project. The sump pump for the shower is still a project. Lee worked on it a bit this evening and now thinks that the pump is not but the float switch is the problem. Hopefully West Marine will take the pump back and we can get a float switch and have that problem solved too. Will see tomorrow.
Today was upper 70s. partly cloudy and humid. Can't believe it is January. We went to a Winn Dixie and a hardware store for a hole saw drill bit. But other than that and lunch at The Quarter Deck we stayed at the boat all day. This is the second time we have eaten at this restaurant. Today we had Dolphin Reuben, not Flipper, mahi mahi, It sounds weird but tasted delicious. Mark got shrimp taco and onion rings which was really good too.
Tomorrow Judy and I may take a bus/trolley ride around to see what goes where and get a little more familiar with the public transportation here. I want to get the canvas treated with water repellent while we have most of it off. So may depend on how far along I get on that project.
As of now we are thinking we may leave Thurs and head for Biscayne Bay. Weather permitting. We have to go off shore because Mark and Judy can't get under one of the fixed bridges. We have gotten a lot of necessary things done and will get a few more done before we leave Las Olas. Probably will not be in a marina again for a while once we leave here.
Work Day
Wed. Jan 21,2015
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
Today was a work day. I started with doing some more laundry while I have the luxury of a washer and dryer access. Then I started to work on the fresh water tank issue. Mark came early and he and Lee were off to get the solar panels. Unfortunately I couldn't get the lid off the tank cleaner so I was stopped in my tracks until the guys got back and I could get one of them to open it. They were gone and gone and gone. I could not imagine what was taking so long since the details had been worked out over a month ago and paid for in advance. While I waited for them to come back with panels a couple of marina people came in and yelled at me to get my boat back from the walk way. My bow sprit and anchor were out in the walkway and creating a danger. I told them, I said as much when we were put in a slip with only a 20ft finger dock and was questioning the safety of it then. but I didn't know how with no cleats aft the mid point of the boat and current pushing us towards the walk way how I could pull the boat off the dock walk. They said they would try to find us something else and left. I called Lee and he said they were about thru and were going to eat and come back. Then he would see what was going on with the boat. In the mean time I took down and stowed any objects I thought would obstruct their work and removed some canvas I was certain would need down.
Finally after nearly 3 hours they returned with 2 panels but the 3rd was too large to fit in the Camry so it was going to be delivered by the store, sometime today. Well at least I got my jug opened and could start on my project. The water tank cleaner took a lot of filling and draining and timing this and that and since our bilge pump is acting up I had to stay by it and manually turn it off and on when I was draining thru the faucets and shower. After that was done which took several hours it does seem to have solved the problem. Hurrah clean, drinkable water. The next issue was getting a new filter for the water purifier. The kind we have is not stocked at West Marine but is the same as what Handleys have. They had an extra on hand so we borrowed theirs and ordered replacements which should be here in 2 or 3 days and we will give them one of them when they come. Water and power you take so for granted on land are your major concerns on a boat, thus the solar panels and the consideration of a water maker.
The guys didn't have the right bolts and nuts so made another trip to the hardware store. They finally had it together. The last panel came just as they were returning. It was already 4 oclock. They got one of the smaller panels mounted but not wired and called it a day.
We have decent water, have the panels started and those were crucial, but the timeline is shot. Two days, Ha Ha Ha. We will probably be here thru the weekend. After the panels are up, wired and working there is still the sump pump to carry water from the shower and sink in the head to replace. Sailing is as they say, working on your boat in warm far away places.
If you are interested in seeing any pics, the Handleys take several of what we are doing and where we are and include in their log. If you tap on any pic at the bottom of the log you will see all taken that day You can find their log at Handleysail.com
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Getting to Know Fort Lauderale
Tues. Jan 20, 2015
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
Today was the day we had wheels again, or at least Handleys have access to a car. Friends of theirs that are in the Bahamas with their boat have offered to let Handleys use their car while they are in town. We took advantage of that to go to the countries biggest West Marine. We walked out with '$200+ worth of stuff. Dinghy repair kit, head repair kit, water treatment chemicals, more solar lights, etc. We had most of a $150 WM gift certificate left and forgot about it. Dumb. After leaving there we went to a place we have heard about from several people, Sailor Man. Kind of like a permanent rummage sale, although they do have some new things. Lee got dinghy lights looked at their dinghy anchors since ours went overboard when the dinghy deflated. It was during the night sail so we didn't know til morning it was gone, long gone. We hear they are picky here about everything being so so on your dinghy. Then we went out to eat and a neat old time diner place. Ate til we didn't eat any dinner.
We drove to a shopping center and went to a grocery store got a few basics we were running low on and got a lay of the land a little. Mark and Judy have discovered the trolley and bus system here is about as good as West Palm. We haven't tried it yet. Tomorrow I will work on the water problem and Lee and Mark will start mounting the solar panels.
I did laundry in the marina laundromat and guess what. Both the dryers worked. Nice facility. The highway and draw bridge are literally over our heads. It is quite noisy in the day and you can hear the bridge tender talk to motorist and boaters, but surprisingly it is very quiet at night. Can not figure why but grateful.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Las Olas Marina
Today was the day we had wheels again, or at least Handleys have access to a car. Friends of theirs that are in the Bahamas with their boat have offered to let Handleys use their car while they are in town. We took advantage of that to go to the countries biggest West Marine. We walked out with '$200+ worth of stuff. Dinghy repair kit, head repair kit, water treatment chemicals, more solar lights, etc. We had most of a $150 WM gift certificate left and forgot about it. Dumb. After leaving there we went to a place we have heard about from several people, Sailor Man. Kind of like a permanent rummage sale, although they do have some new things. Lee got dinghy lights looked at their dinghy anchors since ours went overboard when the dinghy deflated. It was during the night sail so we didn't know til morning it was gone, long gone. We hear they are picky here about everything being so so on your dinghy. Then we went out to eat and a neat old time diner place. Ate til we didn't eat any dinner.
We drove to a shopping center and went to a grocery store got a few basics we were running low on and got a lay of the land a little. Mark and Judy have discovered the trolley and bus system here is about as good as West Palm. We haven't tried it yet. Tomorrow I will work on the water problem and Lee and Mark will start mounting the solar panels.
I did laundry in the marina laundromat and guess what. Both the dryers worked. Nice facility. The highway and draw bridge are literally over our heads. It is quite noisy in the day and you can hear the bridge tender talk to motorist and boaters, but surprisingly it is very quiet at night. Can not figure why but grateful.
Monday, January 19, 2015
West Palm Beach to Ft. Lauderdale
;Monday Jan 19, 2015
Las Olas Marina
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
We departed Lake Worth Inlet near West Palm Beach at 7 am this morning. Once out in the ocean we encountered our constant companion, North Wind. We seem destined to have the wind right on our stern. It was a sunny day and not bad seas so we put out some sail turned on the motor and motor sailed most of the day. We came into the marina about 3;30 and squeezed into a too small slip. The finger dock didn't even go half way back the boat. We had to put fendesr out to keep from bumping our neighbor as he was also in a too narrow, too short slip.This is a pretty noisy location. bridge noise traffic noise etc. We do have electric and water which is why we are here in the first place. They have a nice enough laundry facility and you can park a car if you have one. Tomorrow starts the work. Solar cells and water tank clean out.
Handleys are in Lake Sylvia about a mile away on the hook. That is about it. Uneventful day.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Good Bye West Palm Beach
Sunday
Jan 18,2015
Jan 18,2015
West Palm Beach
Today was a clean up and prep day. We got the dinghy back in its cradle and got everything tucked away for tomorrows off shore trip. About 12;30 we bid good bye to West Palm and headed North, no we weren't lost. We were heading about 5 miles north to be right at the inlet that would put us in the Atlantic. We will go about 8 to 9 hrs off shore Monday. Hopefully we will get to Las Olas marina by late afternoon. Get in a slip and be ready day after tomorrow to start our solar panels and fresh water tank clean up.
When we got to where we planned to anchor there was a huge area that was being dredged. The water was really weird. It had whirlpools in it and places with strong current and dead calm. The anchorage has some really shallow spots too Hope the dredger does not suck us up in the middle of the night.
A French Canadian boat was already here and came and chatted with both us and Handleys. We went to Handleys boat for munchies and drinks and came back to Sea Turtle as dusk turned to dark.
Not much to tell today.
The Elite of Palm Beach
Sat. Jan 17,2015
West Palm Beach , FL
We started the day by going to shore to a green market. Every Sat. various local producers come to a grassy park area just on shore. It was very nice with not only fruits and veggies but baked goods, local sea food, tacos, gourmet coffees etc. After picking some healthy foods to take back to the boat we indulged in a couple of pastries. We took our bounty back to the boat and headed out again for more exploration.
We took the town trolley to hook up with the arts & culture trolley across to Palm Beach and the Society for the 4 Arts complex. Just as we got there a sold out play was about to start, The Merry Widow. I have seldom seen so many well dressed, well manicured men and women. Smelled like money. The cars, jaguars, BMWs, Beemers, Bentleys, you name it. Palm Beach society was there for the play. Us in sandals and tee shirts. Did not exactly fit in. We went to an area where there were fountains, ponds, sculpture and wandered around. It was absolutely zen. Peaceful and refreshing. By this time we figured the play had started and the gentle folk were seated. We wandered back to that building to find that they were between art exhibits and there was none to be seen. So we headed to the library which had closed 5 minutes before we got there. Oh well, at least we had seen how the other half dressed and drove---expensively!!
West Palm beach is where ordinary people work and play, Palm Beach is the high society area. Separated by a little strip of water only, but worlds apart We caught the trolley back across the water divide and came back to the boat. Judy and Mark were just heading to the trolley to get a few groceries so we said to come over for drinks when they got back. They came over as the sun was setting. We visited a while and planned the next couple of days.
We were able to get a slip in Los Olas in Ft Lauderdale to put the solar cells on our boat and work on the fresh water problems. Handleys will anchor less than a mile away so it won't be too bad for Mark to shuttle back and forth to help Lee with the installation. Tomorrow evening we will anchor just inside the inlet that puts us in the Atlantic and then Monday morning we will go off shore for a long day to get to Ft Lauderdale. Predictions are for 5 ft seas at 7 or 8 sec intervals, winds 8-10 knts.
West Palm has been a good experience over all and would enjoy coming again.
West Palm Beach , FL
We started the day by going to shore to a green market. Every Sat. various local producers come to a grassy park area just on shore. It was very nice with not only fruits and veggies but baked goods, local sea food, tacos, gourmet coffees etc. After picking some healthy foods to take back to the boat we indulged in a couple of pastries. We took our bounty back to the boat and headed out again for more exploration.
We took the town trolley to hook up with the arts & culture trolley across to Palm Beach and the Society for the 4 Arts complex. Just as we got there a sold out play was about to start, The Merry Widow. I have seldom seen so many well dressed, well manicured men and women. Smelled like money. The cars, jaguars, BMWs, Beemers, Bentleys, you name it. Palm Beach society was there for the play. Us in sandals and tee shirts. Did not exactly fit in. We went to an area where there were fountains, ponds, sculpture and wandered around. It was absolutely zen. Peaceful and refreshing. By this time we figured the play had started and the gentle folk were seated. We wandered back to that building to find that they were between art exhibits and there was none to be seen. So we headed to the library which had closed 5 minutes before we got there. Oh well, at least we had seen how the other half dressed and drove---expensively!!
West Palm beach is where ordinary people work and play, Palm Beach is the high society area. Separated by a little strip of water only, but worlds apart We caught the trolley back across the water divide and came back to the boat. Judy and Mark were just heading to the trolley to get a few groceries so we said to come over for drinks when they got back. They came over as the sun was setting. We visited a while and planned the next couple of days.
We were able to get a slip in Los Olas in Ft Lauderdale to put the solar cells on our boat and work on the fresh water problems. Handleys will anchor less than a mile away so it won't be too bad for Mark to shuttle back and forth to help Lee with the installation. Tomorrow evening we will anchor just inside the inlet that puts us in the Atlantic and then Monday morning we will go off shore for a long day to get to Ft Lauderdale. Predictions are for 5 ft seas at 7 or 8 sec intervals, winds 8-10 knts.
West Palm has been a good experience over all and would enjoy coming again.
Friday, January 16, 2015
A Lazy Day
Thurs Jan 15,2015
West Palm Beach, FL
Lee got up early to dinghy Handleys over to the dock so he could start his journey to the hospital to get his treatment. He was going to trolley ride to the train station then take 2 buses to the hospital. turns out he only had 1 bus but the train & trolley went off as planned. Lee came back to bed and we slept late. I got up at 10 and Lee got up a little before. Lazy days.
After I got showered and dressed I started researching how to best fix our fresh water smell problem. There are a lot of suggestions out there but still not sure what we should do. What kind of material your tank is made out of impacts what you should and shouldn't use, but there are different opinions about that even. Ours is fiberglass, which some say should not have bleach used in it, others say it is ok. Who to believe? The research will continue because when we leave here we will be ready to clean the water tank and mount solar panels which we hope we can do in a couple of days at a dock with water and power easily accessible.
We started searching for laundromats. Most listed on the internet were either out of business, dry cleaners or not at the address listed on line. We finally loaded our 30 pounds of stuff in the dinghy and headed for the dock. We called Uber and in 5 min someone picked us up. When we told him the address of the laundromat we had finally found about 4 miles away he told us that was a sketchy neighborhood. We asked him to suggest a better place and he took us about the same distance but in the opposite direction. We washed 4 loads of clothes, used 2 dryers only to find when they quit that the same thing that happened last time had happened again. One of the dryers didn't work right. This one tumbled but had no heat so the clothes in that dryer were still sopping wet after 40 min. So transferred the wet clothes to the dryer that had worked and started again. When we at last had clean dry clothes we called Uber and again got a cheap ride. Just as we got back it started to drizzle.
We expected Handleys around 4 but it was dark and no Handleys. The rain got harder and we got a call they were here. Lee got in the dinghy to get them and take them back to Windbird. They had a change in their plans. They had made a stop at Whole Foods and a fresh produce place thanks to sister in law Sue that they had not preplanned.
Speaking of dinghies ours is holding air. We have the motor back on it and hope that is the end of that. Bet Lee uses the stabilizer bar to avoid contact with the outboard motor in the future.
West Palm Beach, FL
Lee got up early to dinghy Handleys over to the dock so he could start his journey to the hospital to get his treatment. He was going to trolley ride to the train station then take 2 buses to the hospital. turns out he only had 1 bus but the train & trolley went off as planned. Lee came back to bed and we slept late. I got up at 10 and Lee got up a little before. Lazy days.
After I got showered and dressed I started researching how to best fix our fresh water smell problem. There are a lot of suggestions out there but still not sure what we should do. What kind of material your tank is made out of impacts what you should and shouldn't use, but there are different opinions about that even. Ours is fiberglass, which some say should not have bleach used in it, others say it is ok. Who to believe? The research will continue because when we leave here we will be ready to clean the water tank and mount solar panels which we hope we can do in a couple of days at a dock with water and power easily accessible.
We started searching for laundromats. Most listed on the internet were either out of business, dry cleaners or not at the address listed on line. We finally loaded our 30 pounds of stuff in the dinghy and headed for the dock. We called Uber and in 5 min someone picked us up. When we told him the address of the laundromat we had finally found about 4 miles away he told us that was a sketchy neighborhood. We asked him to suggest a better place and he took us about the same distance but in the opposite direction. We washed 4 loads of clothes, used 2 dryers only to find when they quit that the same thing that happened last time had happened again. One of the dryers didn't work right. This one tumbled but had no heat so the clothes in that dryer were still sopping wet after 40 min. So transferred the wet clothes to the dryer that had worked and started again. When we at last had clean dry clothes we called Uber and again got a cheap ride. Just as we got back it started to drizzle.
We expected Handleys around 4 but it was dark and no Handleys. The rain got harder and we got a call they were here. Lee got in the dinghy to get them and take them back to Windbird. They had a change in their plans. They had made a stop at Whole Foods and a fresh produce place thanks to sister in law Sue that they had not preplanned.
Speaking of dinghies ours is holding air. We have the motor back on it and hope that is the end of that. Bet Lee uses the stabilizer bar to avoid contact with the outboard motor in the future.
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Walk and Talk Day
We started out today by walking 1.3 miles to a CVS. Mark and I both needed Rx filled. I got my medication with only slight hassle but one of Mark's was not immediately available. We then headed back in the direction of the boats looking for a couple of specialty markets but walked past one by accident and the other we never did see. We picked up the trolley again and went to an area known as City Place. It has a Publix at the near corner and a couple of block of the typical big town stores, Gap, Macy's, Chicos, Victoria's Secret, etc.and a performing arts center. I had brought a LLBean boat bag as a purse and left a half eaten Choc Oat energy bar in it that melted and made a mess. I tried to clean it up but did not do much good. So I was on the hunt for a new purse. Also I wanted to see the more unique stores and the pretty outdoor mall setting the brochures had pictures of. After successfully finding a purse we went to Publix and got a few necessary items.We walked out of there and immediately caught a trolley that took us almost to where we are anchored. Pretty successful day for the most part. It was 3;30 when we arrived and I think my knees and Judy's had probably had it. Standing on your feet all day teaching for decades takes its toll.
After relaxing on the boat we met for a strategy session. We at first thought we would meet on Windbird but changed our minds and went to the place we had the huge breakfast the other morning. We threw around some ideas and came up with an agreeable plan if the weather cooperates. We are relying on Handleys to carry the heavier burden on the planning because they have more experience than we do by far and Mark has a treatment schedule to accommodate. Current plans are to go off shore Monday and sail to Ft Lauderdale. There are 22 bridges between here and there that have to open and we can bypass all that if we go off shore.
Ending on a hopeful note we think we may have Hatchling (the dinghy) patched up this time. We will know for sure tomorrow.
After relaxing on the boat we met for a strategy session. We at first thought we would meet on Windbird but changed our minds and went to the place we had the huge breakfast the other morning. We threw around some ideas and came up with an agreeable plan if the weather cooperates. We are relying on Handleys to carry the heavier burden on the planning because they have more experience than we do by far and Mark has a treatment schedule to accommodate. Current plans are to go off shore Monday and sail to Ft Lauderdale. There are 22 bridges between here and there that have to open and we can bypass all that if we go off shore.
Ending on a hopeful note we think we may have Hatchling (the dinghy) patched up this time. We will know for sure tomorrow.
Another Day in Palm Beach
Tues. Jan 13, 2015
West Palm Beach, FL
Mark was due to meet his new temporary Dr. so we all went ashore for breakfast at a bar just across the water from the boat. The food was good and plentiful. I had 1/4 0f mine for breakfast, another 1/4 for midafternoon lunch, and Lee had the last 2/4 for his dinner. I was still full from late lunch so my dinner was 2 cookies and a glass of milk Not often one meal feeds 2 people for a day. Handleys went off to do the dr thing and spend the remainder of the day with Sue & Brad. We went to the information place to see what more we could find out about since our stay here is an extended one. We picked up a few flyers etc. and came back to the boat.
Our batteries were low so we ran the motor and hunted for somewhere to put the heavy sleeping bags, extra blankets, winter clothes we hope not to need again for a while. Space and water, the two most precious commodities on a boat.We finally came up with a space we hope will be safe but which is very inconvenient to get to for the winter stuff. Next we need to find a spot to store the propane heaters.
The rest of the day we sat on deck and read and enjoyed the view. Rough life, cruising. We still have to solve our where to find dock space problem, but that is on hold til we talk to Handleys again tomorrow.
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Exploring West Palm Beach
Monday Jan 12, 2015
West Palm Beach, FL
We went to shore after a short dinghy ride and started walking around. We were hunting a place we found that fixed phones. We had a little map of the area around the anchorage. We found the store and left the phone to be fixed. We went to hunt a grocery store while it was being worked on. The town runs a trolley in this small area which is the artsy part of town. We hopped a trolley and went to a Publix. Got some much needed drinking water and other essentials and come back for the phone. We were happy to find out the cute guy was also smart. He fixed all my assorted phone problems and put replacement glass in the phone for only $109. Before heading back to the boat we stopped at an Italian place and got lunch.
It is a pretty cool little area where we are but am sure even Palm Beach has its ugly side if we had a way to explore a little farther a field. Judy and Mark have decided we should stay put here until we have a weather window to go off shore to make Fort Lauderdale, which means we will probably be here around a week all together. The down side to that is we do not have access to water so trying to handle the stinky water tank problem will have to wait until we can get docked at a marina. The other fly in the ointment is the place we booked in Ft Lauderdale was close to where they were anchoring but now are not going to anchor there after all. Trying to get last minute space at a dock for us where they can also anchor nearby seems to be a problem unless we want to pay $350 a day. We have called several and no luck. If we take the original space it is too far for Mark to help Lee with installing the solar cells which are to be done in Ft Lauderdale also while we are attached to a dock and have water and electric. As my friend says, It is always something.
West Palm Beach, FL
We went to shore after a short dinghy ride and started walking around. We were hunting a place we found that fixed phones. We had a little map of the area around the anchorage. We found the store and left the phone to be fixed. We went to hunt a grocery store while it was being worked on. The town runs a trolley in this small area which is the artsy part of town. We hopped a trolley and went to a Publix. Got some much needed drinking water and other essentials and come back for the phone. We were happy to find out the cute guy was also smart. He fixed all my assorted phone problems and put replacement glass in the phone for only $109. Before heading back to the boat we stopped at an Italian place and got lunch.
It is a pretty cool little area where we are but am sure even Palm Beach has its ugly side if we had a way to explore a little farther a field. Judy and Mark have decided we should stay put here until we have a weather window to go off shore to make Fort Lauderdale, which means we will probably be here around a week all together. The down side to that is we do not have access to water so trying to handle the stinky water tank problem will have to wait until we can get docked at a marina. The other fly in the ointment is the place we booked in Ft Lauderdale was close to where they were anchoring but now are not going to anchor there after all. Trying to get last minute space at a dock for us where they can also anchor nearby seems to be a problem unless we want to pay $350 a day. We have called several and no luck. If we take the original space it is too far for Mark to help Lee with installing the solar cells which are to be done in Ft Lauderdale also while we are attached to a dock and have water and electric. As my friend says, It is always something.
Monday, January 12, 2015
Bridge Day
Sunday Jan 11, 2015
Jupiter to West Palm Beach, FL
We pulled up anchor at about 8 and headed south. Today was all about bridges. We had several bridges that were not high enough to sail under so we had to wait for openings. About half were on request and most opened quickly, the others opened every 30 min. which always leaves you with time to waste at the bridge. We played ring around the water at several bridges waiting for the appointed time. Current always plays a part in that game. Mark and Judy about had a close encounter with one but managed to escape.
We made our anchorage early afternoon. There was an classic car festival going on on shore. We could easily hear the music and see all the people milling around. We are right in the heart of town and spitting distance of the dinghy dock. Very convenient spot. Unfortunately very crowded too. We have never anchored in such a crowded anchorage before and it took 5 tries to find a spot where the 16-18 kt winds would not swing us too close to another boat. We were pretty frustrated when we finally got situated.
Lee, Mark and Judy went ashore while I nursed some stomach issues. Mark came back for me when it was time to meet with Judy's in laws. Brad and Judy's sister-in-law Sue live in West Palm Beach and had invited all of us to dinner. We had a delicious dinner and pie, Lee had 2 pieces, and Judy reminisced about the old times and the shenanigans that some of them pulled. No Judy is not the angel she appears. We enjoyed listening and meeting Brad, Sue and Sue's sister Ginny. and appreciated the meal. Lee and Mark might have earned their supper. They tried to solve a computer issue on Sue's computer.
We came back to the boat around 9 and hit the sack. We expect a 77-80 degree day tomorrow. We will stay here and maybe get some supplies and boat tasks done and anchor here again tomorrow night.
Jupiter to West Palm Beach, FL
We pulled up anchor at about 8 and headed south. Today was all about bridges. We had several bridges that were not high enough to sail under so we had to wait for openings. About half were on request and most opened quickly, the others opened every 30 min. which always leaves you with time to waste at the bridge. We played ring around the water at several bridges waiting for the appointed time. Current always plays a part in that game. Mark and Judy about had a close encounter with one but managed to escape.
We made our anchorage early afternoon. There was an classic car festival going on on shore. We could easily hear the music and see all the people milling around. We are right in the heart of town and spitting distance of the dinghy dock. Very convenient spot. Unfortunately very crowded too. We have never anchored in such a crowded anchorage before and it took 5 tries to find a spot where the 16-18 kt winds would not swing us too close to another boat. We were pretty frustrated when we finally got situated.
Lee, Mark and Judy went ashore while I nursed some stomach issues. Mark came back for me when it was time to meet with Judy's in laws. Brad and Judy's sister-in-law Sue live in West Palm Beach and had invited all of us to dinner. We had a delicious dinner and pie, Lee had 2 pieces, and Judy reminisced about the old times and the shenanigans that some of them pulled. No Judy is not the angel she appears. We enjoyed listening and meeting Brad, Sue and Sue's sister Ginny. and appreciated the meal. Lee and Mark might have earned their supper. They tried to solve a computer issue on Sue's computer.
We came back to the boat around 9 and hit the sack. We expect a 77-80 degree day tomorrow. We will stay here and maybe get some supplies and boat tasks done and anchor here again tomorrow night.
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Short Sweet and Stress Free
Saturday Jan 10, 2015
Vero Beach to Jupiter, FL
Missing the chili cook off. Enjoy my friends. We got unrafted from Mark & Judy and headed for the marina fuel dock for diesel and water. The fuel gauge said we had 3/4 of a tank but based on what we put in it there was really only had 2/3 of a tank. Never trust those gauges. After a very long time our water filled up and we were off about 8:30am. It was a totally uneventful day. Sunny, around 70, easy winds, the usual shallow spots, but no stress. At 4:10pm we anchored near 3 boats that had pulled up to a sandy spot along the water way and were partying, music so loud they could not possibly hear each other talk. After about a half an hour or so they all left, music still blaring. We are peacefully floating on the hook in 10 mph winds. Tomorrow should put us where we can stay put a few days and maybe we can get the dinghy patched up and some other projects done. Marks treatment is the 13th of Jan.
Vero Beach to Jupiter, FL
Missing the chili cook off. Enjoy my friends. We got unrafted from Mark & Judy and headed for the marina fuel dock for diesel and water. The fuel gauge said we had 3/4 of a tank but based on what we put in it there was really only had 2/3 of a tank. Never trust those gauges. After a very long time our water filled up and we were off about 8:30am. It was a totally uneventful day. Sunny, around 70, easy winds, the usual shallow spots, but no stress. At 4:10pm we anchored near 3 boats that had pulled up to a sandy spot along the water way and were partying, music so loud they could not possibly hear each other talk. After about a half an hour or so they all left, music still blaring. We are peacefully floating on the hook in 10 mph winds. Tomorrow should put us where we can stay put a few days and maybe we can get the dinghy patched up and some other projects done. Marks treatment is the 13th of Jan.
Friday, January 9, 2015
Cocoa Beach to Vero Beach
Friday, 01/09/15
Vero Beach, FL
Mark started his day off by bringing up two anchors. He left the extra one with its chain he had hooked behind. Mild temperatures, partly cloudy, uneventful day.(a very good thing)
We had a new experience today. Mark picked up a mooring ball in Vero Beach Municipal Marina and we rafted up with him on the same mooring. Hope the boats don't start rocking because spreaders on the mast can get tangled. Kind of like teenagers getting their braces locked up when smooching.
After we got rafted, Mark, Judy and Lee went for a dinghy ride. It was cool, windy and dreary like it might rain so I passed. I also figured it might be dark and I do not like being out in the dinghy after dark. Judy did laundry and the guys hunted a little grocery store. It was a really neat little boutique place with organics and Boars Head meats and cheeses. They also had a good selection of fresh fish. A boutique grocery..
After everyone got back, M&J came to our boat for beer and guacamole with crackers. We all told tales and had an enjoyable time. Plans are to start tomorrow at 0800 and do about 45 miles.
Vero Beach, FL
Mark started his day off by bringing up two anchors. He left the extra one with its chain he had hooked behind. Mild temperatures, partly cloudy, uneventful day.(a very good thing)
We had a new experience today. Mark picked up a mooring ball in Vero Beach Municipal Marina and we rafted up with him on the same mooring. Hope the boats don't start rocking because spreaders on the mast can get tangled. Kind of like teenagers getting their braces locked up when smooching.
After we got rafted, Mark, Judy and Lee went for a dinghy ride. It was cool, windy and dreary like it might rain so I passed. I also figured it might be dark and I do not like being out in the dinghy after dark. Judy did laundry and the guys hunted a little grocery store. It was a really neat little boutique place with organics and Boars Head meats and cheeses. They also had a good selection of fresh fish. A boutique grocery..
After everyone got back, M&J came to our boat for beer and guacamole with crackers. We all told tales and had an enjoyable time. Plans are to start tomorrow at 0800 and do about 45 miles.
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Titusville to CoCo
Thursday, 01/08/15
Coco FL
Went to sleep in nice temps and calm waters. Woke up in a couple of hours to rocking and rolling winds built to 36 knots (about 42 mph) and stayed that way until almost dawn. We went back to sleep around 5-5:30 and over slept We were not ready to weigh anchor when Mark left He went on at 7:30. We left about 8:30.
Rocna anchor held through the night of gale force winds.
Once under way to Coco we still fought winds in the 20's. The front brought cold in too. Guess we are better off than Little River, according to Terri it was 18 there. That is ridiculous!
We got to Coco and anchored about 10:30 am. Mark and Judy had already rowed their dinghy with their sick outboard to shore to be picked up in 20 plus mph winds,. Our new outboard arrived at 5 pm and Handleys had no desire to row back to their boat so they stayed land side until their motor arrived this afternoon to power them back after getting repaired. They played tourist until then.
We anchored 3 times before we got where we wanted. It was so windy and the anchorage was so crowded it was necessary to get a safe spot. At least it was sunny,
New/Old problem. The sump pump for the shower quit working again This happened before and Lee beat and pounded on it off and on several days and it finally worked and kept working. We will get a new one when we get to somewhere that has the size we need.
Mark & Judy have a working motor and dinghy. W have a new motor delivered just as the sunset. Our dinghy needs a patch when we get where we an get a kit. The set up for the dinghy is not very satisfactory. We are trying to come up with a better plan.
Winds way down. Dog tired. It's 8:30 that is bed time when you are on the water.
Coco FL
Went to sleep in nice temps and calm waters. Woke up in a couple of hours to rocking and rolling winds built to 36 knots (about 42 mph) and stayed that way until almost dawn. We went back to sleep around 5-5:30 and over slept We were not ready to weigh anchor when Mark left He went on at 7:30. We left about 8:30.
Rocna anchor held through the night of gale force winds.
Once under way to Coco we still fought winds in the 20's. The front brought cold in too. Guess we are better off than Little River, according to Terri it was 18 there. That is ridiculous!
We got to Coco and anchored about 10:30 am. Mark and Judy had already rowed their dinghy with their sick outboard to shore to be picked up in 20 plus mph winds,. Our new outboard arrived at 5 pm and Handleys had no desire to row back to their boat so they stayed land side until their motor arrived this afternoon to power them back after getting repaired. They played tourist until then.
We anchored 3 times before we got where we wanted. It was so windy and the anchorage was so crowded it was necessary to get a safe spot. At least it was sunny,
New/Old problem. The sump pump for the shower quit working again This happened before and Lee beat and pounded on it off and on several days and it finally worked and kept working. We will get a new one when we get to somewhere that has the size we need.
Mark & Judy have a working motor and dinghy. W have a new motor delivered just as the sunset. Our dinghy needs a patch when we get where we an get a kit. The set up for the dinghy is not very satisfactory. We are trying to come up with a better plan.
Winds way down. Dog tired. It's 8:30 that is bed time when you are on the water.
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Justice Prevails
Wed Jan 7, 2015
Daytona Beach to Titusville, FL
Last night was the first night we didn't need the heater. Perfect sleeping temperature. We got up at 6;30 to a little bit of chill and turned on the heater while we ate and dressed. In an hour or two we went from cool to too hot in the cockpit but, the air outside stayed nippy til late morning.
Got a call from the outboard people at the repair place. They said they thought they were going to have tear down the motor, and are not sure all work would be covered under warranty. Lee pondered that and the additional time the repairs would take. About noon he called the manufacturer in Calif and said the motor probably had only been run about 10 miles and he could not afford the additional time extensive repairs would take, that he thought they should just give him a new motor, and let him be on his way. They said they would consider that and give him a call later. Later in the afternoon they called and said he could get the new motor. VICTORY We should get it tomorrow.
We played ring around the water at the New Syrma Beach bridge. Such a fun game. We say clumps of bushes with so many pelicans in them there seemed to be more pelicans than branches. Wild orange trees which I assume came from farmed ones was back when.
Unable to catch the 3:30 bridge opening at NASA Causeway in Titusville we came through at the next one which was 5. Immediately anchored in 10 ft of water and called it a day. Going to be cold tonight 40s , tomorrow calling for 30s for lows ...burr. Our 7:30-5:00 boating day takes its toll, dog tired. Night.
Daytona Beach to Titusville, FL
Last night was the first night we didn't need the heater. Perfect sleeping temperature. We got up at 6;30 to a little bit of chill and turned on the heater while we ate and dressed. In an hour or two we went from cool to too hot in the cockpit but, the air outside stayed nippy til late morning.
Got a call from the outboard people at the repair place. They said they thought they were going to have tear down the motor, and are not sure all work would be covered under warranty. Lee pondered that and the additional time the repairs would take. About noon he called the manufacturer in Calif and said the motor probably had only been run about 10 miles and he could not afford the additional time extensive repairs would take, that he thought they should just give him a new motor, and let him be on his way. They said they would consider that and give him a call later. Later in the afternoon they called and said he could get the new motor. VICTORY We should get it tomorrow.
We played ring around the water at the New Syrma Beach bridge. Such a fun game. We say clumps of bushes with so many pelicans in them there seemed to be more pelicans than branches. Wild orange trees which I assume came from farmed ones was back when.
Unable to catch the 3:30 bridge opening at NASA Causeway in Titusville we came through at the next one which was 5. Immediately anchored in 10 ft of water and called it a day. Going to be cold tonight 40s , tomorrow calling for 30s for lows ...burr. Our 7:30-5:00 boating day takes its toll, dog tired. Night.
Making Connections
Tues. Jan 6, 2015
St. Augustine to Daytona Beach
The day began early at 7;30am launch from our mooring ball. We went from a bit chilly to comfortable to down right warm in the space of 90 minutes in the enclosed cockpit. We opened a few panels and it was "Goldilocks" just right.
We made plans to drop our dinghy motor at Halifax Harbor in Daytona around 4 and have it taken to Rockledge for repairs. Phoned California to get parts overnighted to the repair shop. Plans are to pick up a repaired motor Wed evening or Thur morning. The 4 oclock thing didn't happen until almost 6pm. At 5;45 we left the marina and the motor and hope someone finally came to get it, We could not wait longer or we would be anchoring in the dark.
The day was mostly sunny with scattered clouds and scenery similar to home. Lots of marsh and shallows to cause trouble. One thing I have learned in spades. Trying to get something fixed or parts not already on board is no easy task. Think my kayak would be easier to take, less effort over all and more enjoyable than the dinghy. Tired and hungry.
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Voyage of Sea Turtle
Monday Jan 5, 2015
Jacksonville to St Augustine
We had a short day travel wise. Going about 20 miles, We had hoped to get the dinghy motor repaired but no such luck.Mark and Lee tinkered again and called the manufacturer, Mark and Judy did the tourist thing seeing old town and the fort. We had seen it before so stayed on the boat. The St Augustine town marina runs a free water taxi every 2 hours until 6pm. So they hopped aboard and went to land. They called back at some point and reported there was a coin laundry with the marina facilities. Since I had a couple of loads I took the taxi over at 4 to do clothes. Handleys were getting ready to walk across a very long bridge to a grocery store to get a few things so Lee went with them. He thought it was very long walk but they seemed not so worn out as he was. By the time they all got back the laundry was in the dryer. Unfortunately I had to take it out before it was dry to catch the last water taxi back to the boat at six. We were both on mooring balls. I realized as I took the clothes out one of the dryers had not been tumbling and the things were very damp. It was warm but wet. So came back to the boat strung line below and it resembled a Chinese laundry
We plan to try to get a 7;30 start in the morning to catch a particularly bad bridge at the right time, We also hope someone in St Augustine can fix this darn motor. It was a pretty trip today. Saw some different bird life. Snow white pelicans..
There was a full scale replica of a Spanish galleon, in sight of where we were moored. We didn't tour it but it was huge. Wish we had gotten a picture. but we are not much picture takers.
Jacksonville to St Augustine
We had a short day travel wise. Going about 20 miles, We had hoped to get the dinghy motor repaired but no such luck.Mark and Lee tinkered again and called the manufacturer, Mark and Judy did the tourist thing seeing old town and the fort. We had seen it before so stayed on the boat. The St Augustine town marina runs a free water taxi every 2 hours until 6pm. So they hopped aboard and went to land. They called back at some point and reported there was a coin laundry with the marina facilities. Since I had a couple of loads I took the taxi over at 4 to do clothes. Handleys were getting ready to walk across a very long bridge to a grocery store to get a few things so Lee went with them. He thought it was very long walk but they seemed not so worn out as he was. By the time they all got back the laundry was in the dryer. Unfortunately I had to take it out before it was dry to catch the last water taxi back to the boat at six. We were both on mooring balls. I realized as I took the clothes out one of the dryers had not been tumbling and the things were very damp. It was warm but wet. So came back to the boat strung line below and it resembled a Chinese laundry
We plan to try to get a 7;30 start in the morning to catch a particularly bad bridge at the right time, We also hope someone in St Augustine can fix this darn motor. It was a pretty trip today. Saw some different bird life. Snow white pelicans..
There was a full scale replica of a Spanish galleon, in sight of where we were moored. We didn't tour it but it was huge. Wish we had gotten a picture. but we are not much picture takers.
Sunday, January 4, 2015
Sisters Creek Anchorage
Sunday, 01/04/15
Sisters Creek, FL
N30 23.13 W81 27.357
Today started on an up beat note We blew up the lame dinghy and hoisted it up and and tied it on the swim platform. But unlike yesterday it did not immediately start to deflate. It lost a little air during the day but did much better holding air today. It was partly sunny and warm so I got to put shorts on again. Probably reached high 70s. About 4;30 we had a very heavy rain which lasted about 45 minutes.
We left Fernandina FL and headed down the water way. One of the bridges was a squeaker at high tide for the Handleys boat but they made it. There were some pretty shallow places but typical of the ICW. We anchored in a wide place in the ICW called Sisters Creek.
Shortly after anchoring Mark rowed over and the outboard tinkering continued. Again there was conversation with the manufacturer. But nothing was solved. We hope to get an early start tomorrow and get to St Augustine and get both the outboards fixed there. How we will get them to a repair shop or even to shore has not been revealed to me. Hopefully the motor & dinghy problems will be over in a day or two.
At least the water way was not beating us up like we were getting off shore.
Stay tuned for the next episode of crazier than mad hatters,
Sisters Creek, FL
N30 23.13 W81 27.357
Today started on an up beat note We blew up the lame dinghy and hoisted it up and and tied it on the swim platform. But unlike yesterday it did not immediately start to deflate. It lost a little air during the day but did much better holding air today. It was partly sunny and warm so I got to put shorts on again. Probably reached high 70s. About 4;30 we had a very heavy rain which lasted about 45 minutes.
We left Fernandina FL and headed down the water way. One of the bridges was a squeaker at high tide for the Handleys boat but they made it. There were some pretty shallow places but typical of the ICW. We anchored in a wide place in the ICW called Sisters Creek.
Shortly after anchoring Mark rowed over and the outboard tinkering continued. Again there was conversation with the manufacturer. But nothing was solved. We hope to get an early start tomorrow and get to St Augustine and get both the outboards fixed there. How we will get them to a repair shop or even to shore has not been revealed to me. Hopefully the motor & dinghy problems will be over in a day or two.
At least the water way was not beating us up like we were getting off shore.
Stay tuned for the next episode of crazier than mad hatters,
Saturday, January 3, 2015
Sea Turtle
Sea Turtle
Sat Jan 3, 2015
The day was warm and sunny once the fog lifted. We stayed at anchor in the morning at
Cumberland Sea Shore In the late morning we put the dinghy on the back of the boat and the patch we thought had fixed our hole sprung a leak and the tube started to loose air. We put it on and secured it to the boat as best we could and will try to patch it again later. We headed to Fernadina Beach shortly after noon motoring about an hour. Got our diesel tank and water tanks filled, dumped the trash and paid to pick up a mooring ball for the night.
Mark came over and he and Lee worked on our dinghy motor again. With the help of someone from the manufacturer they got it running for a while and think they have the problem pinned down, but have a plug they can not get to seat properly. They will give it another try in the morning. Fixed or not we will head south again by 9;30 or 10 tomorrow morning. Both Lee and Mark drew blood and were asking for bandaids, Apparently motor work is dangerous.They were tired and frustrated so quit for the day.
Judy asked us for dinner but that meant hand rowing Mark's dinghy from one boat to the other and back. Lucky for us Mark rowed.
Waiting for the fun part of this to start.
Sat Jan 3, 2015
The day was warm and sunny once the fog lifted. We stayed at anchor in the morning at
Cumberland Sea Shore In the late morning we put the dinghy on the back of the boat and the patch we thought had fixed our hole sprung a leak and the tube started to loose air. We put it on and secured it to the boat as best we could and will try to patch it again later. We headed to Fernadina Beach shortly after noon motoring about an hour. Got our diesel tank and water tanks filled, dumped the trash and paid to pick up a mooring ball for the night.
Mark came over and he and Lee worked on our dinghy motor again. With the help of someone from the manufacturer they got it running for a while and think they have the problem pinned down, but have a plug they can not get to seat properly. They will give it another try in the morning. Fixed or not we will head south again by 9;30 or 10 tomorrow morning. Both Lee and Mark drew blood and were asking for bandaids, Apparently motor work is dangerous.They were tired and frustrated so quit for the day.
Judy asked us for dinner but that meant hand rowing Mark's dinghy from one boat to the other and back. Lucky for us Mark rowed.
Waiting for the fun part of this to start.
Friday, January 2, 2015
Cumberland Island
Friday, 01/01/15
Cumberland Island National Sea Shore, GA
We slept long and hard last night. Almost 11 hours. Wonderful calm anchorage. The early part of the day was spent cleaning the mess from the rough trip in here. Lee & Mark tinkered with Marks motor. It would run a little then quit. We hope we got the damage on our dinghy repaired. Lee & Mark patched it but you need to wait 24 hours to test it. It was about 70 degrees at mid day so seemed like a good time to clean on the boat which gets dirty amazingly fast. Lee and the Handleys explored the island. Has cooled down now that it is dark. Thank heavens for Bonnie Williams propane heater. Plans for what comes next are up in the air.
We were considering another two day and two night jog outside, but the weather is now calling for 5-7 foot seas with some to 9 feet. We are not going to do that intentionally so it looks like the next part of the trip will be down the ICW.
We are not big on taking pictures, but Judy Handley is a prolific photographer. If you would like to see pictures of our trip go to:
http://handleysail.com/category/sailing-logs/sailing-logs-year-10/passage-to-florida/
You can read her version of the trip and see the pictures. Just click on one of her pictures and it will take you to their album for that day.
Cumberland Island National Sea Shore, GA
We slept long and hard last night. Almost 11 hours. Wonderful calm anchorage. The early part of the day was spent cleaning the mess from the rough trip in here. Lee & Mark tinkered with Marks motor. It would run a little then quit. We hope we got the damage on our dinghy repaired. Lee & Mark patched it but you need to wait 24 hours to test it. It was about 70 degrees at mid day so seemed like a good time to clean on the boat which gets dirty amazingly fast. Lee and the Handleys explored the island. Has cooled down now that it is dark. Thank heavens for Bonnie Williams propane heater. Plans for what comes next are up in the air.
We were considering another two day and two night jog outside, but the weather is now calling for 5-7 foot seas with some to 9 feet. We are not going to do that intentionally so it looks like the next part of the trip will be down the ICW.
We are not big on taking pictures, but Judy Handley is a prolific photographer. If you would like to see pictures of our trip go to:
http://handleysail.com/category/sailing-logs/sailing-logs-year-10/passage-to-florida/
You can read her version of the trip and see the pictures. Just click on one of her pictures and it will take you to their album for that day.
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Happy New Year
Sea Turtle
Jan 1, 2015
Log for Dec31
Happy New Year
Hope everyone had a good New Year's Eve. We were sailing off the coast past a place called Egg Island at 12. We could see fire works for some time. Obviously too much for personal pleasure so must have been a town display. Too far away to hear anything but pretty to watch on a cloudless night.
The clouds came in and the cross waves built and we had winds shifting back and forth mainly behind us. We power sailed but the waves were jerking us side to side pretty badly. Was not a fun night. Cabinet doors opened contents flew out, moving about was a challenge. Managed to fix a salad & chili but some got away from me.
Our dinghy on the stern suffered an injury. One tube has a hole or two can't see why the other one is flat. When we can we will try to inspect it further. Hope it can be salvaged since we have hardly used it. Mark can't get his outboard for his dinghy to work, our dinghy is caput so together we have one functioning dinghy & outboard.
Last night was not fun. But this morning we are at anchor in a calm spot at Cumberland Island Nat'l Sea Shore. The sky is clearing and it's feeling warm inside our enclosed cockpit. Things definitely looking up. We plan to be here two days.
Poor Lee was up most of the night because the sea was so rough I couldn't handle it. He has had his shower, coffee & breakfast so should be nap time for him. Hopefully when we move on everyone is rested and ready to go further south.
Jan 1, 2015
Log for Dec31
Happy New Year
Hope everyone had a good New Year's Eve. We were sailing off the coast past a place called Egg Island at 12. We could see fire works for some time. Obviously too much for personal pleasure so must have been a town display. Too far away to hear anything but pretty to watch on a cloudless night.
The clouds came in and the cross waves built and we had winds shifting back and forth mainly behind us. We power sailed but the waves were jerking us side to side pretty badly. Was not a fun night. Cabinet doors opened contents flew out, moving about was a challenge. Managed to fix a salad & chili but some got away from me.
Our dinghy on the stern suffered an injury. One tube has a hole or two can't see why the other one is flat. When we can we will try to inspect it further. Hope it can be salvaged since we have hardly used it. Mark can't get his outboard for his dinghy to work, our dinghy is caput so together we have one functioning dinghy & outboard.
Last night was not fun. But this morning we are at anchor in a calm spot at Cumberland Island Nat'l Sea Shore. The sky is clearing and it's feeling warm inside our enclosed cockpit. Things definitely looking up. We plan to be here two days.
Poor Lee was up most of the night because the sea was so rough I couldn't handle it. He has had his shower, coffee & breakfast so should be nap time for him. Hopefully when we move on everyone is rested and ready to go further south.
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