Marathon to Stock Island, FL

Today:          43 miles        5.4 hours          ICW St M “     ”

Total:       1412 miles    208.2 hours

     It was a great night for sleeping.  The temps were in the high 60’s and a great breeze blew through the cabin all night.

     Pete had some work he had to complete before we left the anchorage this morning.  As a result, we left around 11 am. Another sailboat was waiting to take our spot. We did stop on our way out of the harbor to pick up 10 gallons of diesel, which is plenty to get us to Stock Island.

One of the smaller grass mats

Brush strokes in the skies

     Once again Pete worked and I had the wheel. Due to all the crab floats and mats of sea grass, auto pilot wasn’t an option.  The winds were a bit stronger today as well, so the aft-quartering seas increased 3-5 feet with a few greater than 6.  I now sport blisters on my palms from working the wheel.  I know, I should have put on my sail gloves, but I was a bit busy to think about that.

     Bailey was very upset with the sea conditions and we had to give her some Benedryl to help her cope.  It only helped a little, she panted and shook for a good deal of the trip.  I think we will need to speak with the Vet to see if she can have a better tranquilize. Between her and the seas, we opted for granola bars for lunch.

     It was a bit strange to be buzzed by a Coast Guard helicopter 4 times today. They were flying low and did a slow pass, but didn’t initiate any contact.  They must have been looking for someone in particular.

The view to out port
entering the channel to
Stock Island Village Marina

     We arrived at Stock Island Marina close to 5.  We already texted Deb and Hugh, SV SIMPLICITY with our arrival.  They, along with the dock hand, Bob (and Mary from SV WINSOME, the 50’ Hunter on our port), Chuck and Patty (from the MV LAST BOAT on our starboard) and Tom (and Beth from SV DELLA TERESA, the 38’ Tayana next to SIMPLICITY) were waiting to assist.  Due to the cross wind and current Pete needed to try 3 times to back into the slip.  On the 3^rd attempt, he was very close to the boats across the alley, so I along with our viewing gallery shouted cautions.  Of course, Pete knew what he was doing and how much space he had to work with.  He docked into the slip like a pro!

     After thanking all for their help, I straightened up while Pete took Bailey for a quick walk and settled the bill.  Earlier today. I took the frozen Spanish Rice, chicken and beans out of the freezer, so we had a real hearty dinner.
     We were very surprised that we still have TV reception from West Palm Beach. Last year we needed to manually switch satellites and ask for Miami coverage. Since it works fine, we are going to simply go with the flow!

     

~ ~ ~ /) ~ ~ K & P