Since we were in the “Sponge Capital” we decided to check out the movie about sponge divers and the different kinds of sponges. It was actually quite interesting and we learned a lot about the history of the industry in Tarpon Springs. We even bought a couple of sponges(supposedly great for cleaning the boat).
We left for Clearwater around noon. It had warmed up and we had a nice, uneventful trip down the intercoastal. However, by the time we got to Clearwater the wind had picked up considerably and docking proved to be a bit of a challenge as there were winds of over 25 knots hitting us across our beam. After a few failed attempts to back in stern first we finally came in bow first. Since we have doors on both sides amidship, it usually doesn’t make any difference so we do whatever is easiest.
After settling in we explored the immediate area a little and then just relaxed on the boat. Lots of boat traffic going by and much of it was decorated. Seems the lighted boat parade was tonight, so we got a front row seat as many of the boats cruised by.
We met friends, Rob and Gerri, for dinner. Gerry had worked with them in Annapolis, but they now have a home in the Tampa area. It was great catching up with them. After dinner they came back to the boat with us for a tour and a nightcap.
We have reservations at the Clearwater Municipal Marina for a month. There are several other looper boats here, also with month-long reservations as many are going home for the holidays.
A shot of the sponge docks from the water as we were leaving Tarpon Springs
Looking out the Anclote River
This is the main street by the sponge docks, Dodecanese Blvd.
We saw this very unusual looking boat heading towards us
We saw lots of islands covered with mangroves
Here's an osprey with its dinner ... fresh fish
We saw a large group of kayakers ... these 2 seemed to be traveling in tandum
Approaching the Dunedin-Honeymoon Island Bridge. It had a clearance of 25 feet so we didn't have to call for an opening.
Approaching the Clearwater Memorial Causeway Bridge. This bridge is relatively new, having been completed around 2005.
One end of the bridge has a "park-like" setting .....
while the other end is very commercialized
To get into the marina we had to go down a very narrow channel. You can see how shallow it really is .... on one side we have a fisherwoman
.... and on the other, you can see birds standing in the water .... very shallow
The shoreline by the bridge. Lots of palm trees .... we must be in Florida
The marina is home to many charter fishing boats and cruise boats. Here are some fishermen returning with their catch
Our friendly resident pelican at dusk
Santa and his boat .... no sleighs in Florida
A boat decorated as a dragon
... and a decorated sailboat
2 comments:
Gerry and Linda.
Congratulations on what sounds like a successful and great trip. Sorry you didn't make it up to Chattanooga. Maybe nest time.
Looks like by your schedule that you will be at Cayo Costa from 1-2 to 1-4. Lou and I will be down that way arriving at the boat on 1-3. We are probably about 10-15 miles from Cayo Costa at the marina. Hopefully we can run down and hookup to catch up with you guys.
I would like to put in a plug for the Charlotte Harbor-Pine Island Sound area. If you can take the time, there are some great stops there. Boca Grande, Cabbage Key, Captiva Island, and Sanibel Island. Easy cruisng and interesting stops. I like it probably more than cruising the keys.
Lou and I plan on this trip to cruise the area.
Hope we get to see you. Have a great cruise and Good Christmas.
Don
Don,
We have to update our itinerary. We won't be back to Clearwater until Dec. 31st (late) and I don't think we will leave here until after the 4th. We are going to take it slow on our way to the Keys. Too many nice spots to visit. We will let you know when we get near your place and figure out how to connect. Looking forward to seeing you and Lou and sharing some lies.
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