Coastal Cruising: Bay Breeze & Aquavit

It won't be long before we start our cruise up the AICW on our way to NYC and maybe Boston. The first leg is a 150 nm jump across the Gulf from near St. Marks to Dunedin/Clearwater. On Bay Breeze, it's an overnight trip at 6 knots. On AQUAVIT, the trip is cut to 7 noisy hours. We have noise cancelling headsets that allow us to bluetooth music or use an intercom. We prefer the peace and quiet of the slow paced sail, but have to admit the cruising speed is addictive.  A preferred marina is Marker 1 in Dunedin - with nice amenities and an easy lay dock and fueling. Honeymoon Island State Park is close by and a very popular beach. A couple restaurants are close by and a Publix is a mere two blocks away. 

We are glad to be at a marina in Apalachicola to wait out a passing squall line. This historic village was once a major export port for naval stores and cotton. It is flourishing now, revitalized as an artsy community and laid back tourist destination. Great restaurants, craft brewery, art galleries, and local music. New friends, Terry and Pam welcomed us into their magnificent 1900 restored home - “This Old House” has nothing on them! After the front passes we hope for a fresh north wind to carry us home, or at least to Dog Island. This is our last short sailing cruise aboard Bay Breeze before we begin our trip up the Atlantic ICW next month aboard AQUAVIT.