First Time I Ever

[Phil Prater]

OK After a couple days in Destin, meeting up and visiting with friends on other boats it was time to move on. First intentions were to head to Appalachicola, but after talking to some friends who had just been here, decided to make it PT.ST.Joe instead, Not quite as funky and laid back as Appalachicola, but much nicer marina and much more convenient for provisions. Did my nav planning, figgered about 18 or so hours at 5 knots. Were going to do an overnighter, so figgered winds would lay down after sunset. Left Destin around 4PM, thinking would make it in here by 8 or so this morning, assuming dead calm from midnight on. By midnight when Karen came on watch, we were making over 6 knots, and had to slow the boat down, or get into here before first light. So, for the first time I can ever remember, reefed down, to slow down the boat, because we were going too fast. Ended up with only the jib out, and it's half rolled up. Still making four to five knots, on a broad reach. A very nice sail, just too bad we had to slow down and couldn't enjoy the the fullest. This was our second offshore hop, and so far we have been able to make a direct run both times, and have not had to make one single tack. A beautiful night on the gulf, and a very enjoyable trip. Gonna sit here and relax for a couple days, provision the boat, and head out for Tampa Fri. morning. Should be in Tampa by fairly early Sunday. It's a little over 200 miles, so roughly 40 hours at 5 knots. Weather looks excellent for the next several days. Looks like we might be able to make the run to Tampa without a sail change or a tack. Is that too much to hope for.

[Terri]

Nice! Sounds like a beautiful trip. Having to slow the boat down...lol..too bad huh? Enjoy! I'm leaving at 6 am Friday for a 4 day delivery, should be nice. tty soon Terri

[Suky Cannon]

what a wonderful problem to have ! ...