This is for Cat Eisele- here’s why! She was spying on Captain Rick today as he was in repair mode for Tonto’s Reward at SCYC. Thanks for looking out, Cat.
Go ahead, click here and sing along with Michael Jackson: “Sometimes I feel like, somebody’s watching me.”
Zooming in …
This blog post will wrap up Part 1 of our Florida tour, focusing on the west coast of Florida. In this post we traveled from Longboat Key to The Field Club, to Pelican Bay, to Cabbage Key, then Fort Myers.
Longboat Key
Rick and David B. TRIED to help our dockmate, Sapphire – a 52 Beneteau – relocate the washer/dryer to the bow of the boat. But the cozy hatch opening was a bit of a struggle.
After several tweaks and determined tries, the appliance was lowering, but not enough, then the heavy rains came. Quick thinking, our dinghy cover did the trick, protecting the appliance from the deluge.
The next day Rick and David B removed ALL protruding nobs and hardware, and detached the hinges on the tight fitting hatch.
Finally, the appliance was lowering!
Unfortunately, there was another impediment inside, so they could not complete the job, a disappointing moment.
Quest for the Perfect Hamburger
Capt Rick LOVES a good burger. Longboat Key delivered.
Field Club
Boater’s Tip: We had to book nearly one month ahead to secure docks at The Field Club – it’s that popular!!
It’s an old club, sort of. Originally a mansion for the Field family (part of the Chicago family behind Marshall Field & Company), the main structure dates back to 1927. It was converted to a club in 1957, when the Fields, in their 80’s, moved back to the Chicago area full time. Sarasota Yacht Club was the first to be given the opportunity to purchase, but some short sighted board members passed on the chance. Capt Rick loves to say, “You can’t fix Stupid.”
The 16-acre waterfront property is absolutely beautiful!
Pelican Bay
The waters of Cayo Costa State Park include our favorite anchorage. We anchored out for two nights.
Cabbage Key
We docked at Cabbage Key for one night. First a shout out to Ray and Caryl – who are cruising the Greek Islands – we know you love Cabbage Key. For those of you who have visited, you know there is a LOT of money hanging from the ceiling and walls.
Did you know that Cabbage Key donates the money that falls from the walls to local charities? To the tune of roughly 20,000, annually. SOO cool.
Capt Rick knew this was a good place to honor Michael Gillespie since he and his wife Susan Gillespie absolutely LOVED this place!!
We miss you, Gonzo.
Fort Myers
We returned to Fort Myers on May 27. Here’s a little nod to my firstborn. Celebrating your recent birthday, on Memorial Day.
Breaking News: So far we have 14 Florida Council Yacht Club signatures, qualifying along with Tonto’s Reward for the annual Founders Award. Stops so far include Bird Key, Bradenton, Carlouel, Charlotte Harbo, Clearwater, Davis Island, Field Club, Isles, St. Pete, Sarasota, Tampa, Tarpon Springs, and Venice.
Hey Carl, Gary, Cat and Jim – YOU CAN DO IT! Keep Boating, Safely.
What’s Next – Part II
On June 5 we will head to SCYC, then we will join Tonto’s Reward to commence Part II of our Florida tour. First stop is Naples City Dock followed by Marco Island Yacht Club, then Marathon and Key West. Weather permitting we will anchor out at the Dry Tortugas.
Celebrating Milestones: Birthdays – May 25 – Zach Silverstein; May 28 – Scott Ginsburg, Brennyn turned 10; May 29 – Doug Belknap; May 31 – Pamela Ledward; June 1 – Craig Adford, Mark Marlow, Amanda Saylor, Skyllar Tanner; June 2 – Susan Gillespie.
May 25 – Anniversary Gail and David Bernstein; May 26 – Jeff and Patty North
Thanks everyone for following our travels!
Exhale on the Water 