Second Wind on the Great Loop and Beyond

Tuesday - Wednesday, March 16-17.
Even though crossing Tampa Bay Tuesday was a bit choppy, the protected waters of the ICW were fine for traveling. We enjoyed brief sightings of a dolphin or two, but the many condos and a pirate ship were our main attractions. We are already missing the Keys -- our friends at 1 Palm Court, that beautiful light turquoise water, dinghy rides through Sister Creek, stone crab claws, and all those big white birds.

Bob and I decided to bypass Clearwater Beach and head toward the Anclote River just outside of Tarpon Springs. That would cut a bit of time and distance when we do decide to cross the Gulf. I took a photo of Anclote Island, which is where many cruisers lay at anchor before or after their Gulf crossings, but it was too cool for us to try it. A small marina called Port Tarpon (I think) was OK for one night, but now it looks as if we won't be starting across until Friday. Today (Wednesday)we moved on to Tarpon Springs. Greek restaurants seem to be calling our names. You may have noticed that cruising and eating well often seem to be synonymous. Second Wind is currently docked at Tarpon Landing Marina, just across the bridge from the main town. The once boisterous Capt'n Jacks bar and grill seems pretty tame right now. We'll see about tonight. . . .

Biding our time . . . if the weather forecast holds and all goes well, Scott and Anne will meet us in Carrabelle, FL on the Panhandle late Saturday afternoon.