Saturday, August 8, 2009

the ICW

August 5, 2009

We’ve come a long way! After our rush with the Gulf Stream we stopped in Fort Pierce at the Pelican Yacht Club. Pool, bar, groceries across the street – a virtual oasis! We have realized that our destination isn’t that far away but we have many days. We flirted with the notion of heading over to the Bahamas, but the days are so hot it does not appeal. We are on a mission to deliver this boat, learn how she works and get her ready for the post retirement launch.

So, we stayed 4 days at the Pelican Yacht Club and enjoyed the amenities – and the AC in our boat.

On Wednesday, we set off at 6:30 for Melbourne. We motored up the ICW, thinking about putting up some sails. We don’t know if there are rules. Are you allowed to sail on the ICW with all its constrictions?

We are mapping out our final stops… Titusville, Daytona Beach, St. Augustine, Jacksonville Beach and finally Fernandina Beach before our haul-out in St. Marys, Georgia.

We need to “burn” a few days so anything close enough with charm becomes home. We feel slightly guilty staying at marinas – but it is over 90 everyday and our AC can get it down to 75 if we get it going soon enough. In the winter and spring, the temperature will be in the 70s at night. That will be much more do-able.

August 8, 2009

Stopped on Thursday at Titusville. Cool seeing the NASA buildings from the ICW. Got up early to leave and were at the “Always Open” NASA railway bridge by 7:30. It was closed. Asked the maintenance workers when they would be done and they said, “About 11!” So for 3 and a half hours we waited. On the good side, we befriended a manatee. After he got comfortable with us, Pam squirted him in the face with fresh water – which ended that relationship. Travel on the ICW is calm but we see lots of dolphins, people in boats, interesting homes and docks. Moved on to New Smyrna Beach (not sure if there is an old one.) Going through Daytona for Palm Coast tonight, St. Augustine tomorrow.

NASA train bridge

Friendly manatee
Gator waiting for lunch

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2 comments:

  1. Jammy and LusciousAugust 8, 2009 at 1:57 PM

    Sounds like you are getting "salty" in your voyage. Enjoying it more and more. Does this mean a Sept. retirement? Just phone it in and start collecting your cheques in St. Marys. Travel safely. Are you home for the wedding Aug. 21st.?

    ReplyDelete
  2. Very interesting and exciting, Is your boat crowded?? because there are a lot of us on it following your adventure all the way? and we are loving it. Stay safe

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