Fernandina Beach, FL

As you can see why from this radar picture from weatherunderground.com, we have decided to wait out the rain and wind here in Fernandina Beach, FL. Yes, we made it to Florida (!) which feels like an accomplishment. We left Maryland more than 5 weeks ago.

We had an interesting day yesterday.... We left St. Simons Island around 8:00 in a dense fog. The weather was warm (70s) and there was a strong wind on our nose (20 knots) for most of the day. Low tide was at 12:21, which concerned us since we had several shallow places to get through. We saw less than 10 feet for the majority of the day, which made for a tense ride. We did run aground once in Jekell Creek -- even though we were in the middle of the channel and were following the range markers -- but Bill quickly got us off. We were again fortunate to be passed by another boat with only a four foot draft who was able to relay water depths via the VHF so we had a better idea of which direction to head once we got off. It is impossible to know which way to point the boat when you are aground in the middle of the channel. We were both more than relieved to get off the bottom so quickly since the tide was still going out and we would have been in trouble.

The water depths in the ICW in Florida are supposed to be less of an issue, which we will both be thankful for. From what we have read and heard from others, Georgia just doesn't have the money (or hasn't allocated the money) for dredging and shoaling is everywhere.

The rain missed us and we were tied up at the dock by about 3:00. Bill and I enjoyed a warm rest of the afternoon topside and had dinner and a movie on the boat. We also saw a big Coast Guard ship dock next to us after dark, which was neat.

So today it is raining and very windy. They have issued a tornado warning, so we are glad to be at the dock with the super duper fender from Dave and Molly. We were woken up early this morning with knock, knock, knocks on the hull from the dock master who was advising all boaters to put (even) more lines out. Since we already doubled up yesterday, so there isn't much more we can do. Hopefully we'll be able to explore the town a little in between raindrops!