We are officially at anchor for the first time on Amel! Dropped the hook at 1pm today at Peck Lake, just off the ICW marker G19 (just south of Stuart) at mile marker 992. It was a cold, cold motor in arctic winds gusting to over 25knots. We were wearing winter hats, long johns and even mittens! Kids and I got brief respite as we came inside for lunch but Mike was at the helm the entire time. It was a gorgeous sunny day. We had to follow to Okeechobee waterway north to Stuart then met up with the ICW (Inter-Coastal Waterway) and turned south. The ICW is a 3000 mile long inland protected waterway, consider it a narrow “highway” with land close on either side, that runs parallel to the coast of many states including Florida. When seas are too big or wind too high, boats can still make progress north or south. We need to get as far south as we can before we cross to Bahamas since the Gulf Stream flows north and will push us off track.
Our morning started with the excitement of finally going through the St. Lucie Locks – after having watched other boats go through day after day. Here is a description by Henry of how it works:
“It is so much fun watching the boats go through the locks. First the boat radios the lock and gets permission to go in the lock. Next the people throw lines to the boat then the water goes down 14 feet. After the water goes down the second gates open. And the boat goes through. Then the boat is at the other side of the lock.”
We had many bridges to go under – some tall enough for us to fit – others we had to call on the radio to have them stop traffic and open the bascule bridge (draw bridge). We saw some fabulous birds early this morning including a HUGE Great blue heron. Impressive! Peck Lake is part of the Hobe Sound National wildlife Refuge – it was neat to walk the beach this afternoon – with not another person, condo, store, car…just nothing but beach, ocean and us (oh yes…and the cold wind!).
Yesterday we said goodbye to Dubby and Grammy. They showed up at the Locks with surprise ice cream and got a tour of the somewhat organized boat (without unpacked bags everywhere!). They have been so much help over the last week whether shopping, helping with kids, doctor visits, cardboard parties….hard to say goodbye as we head south.
Tomorrow morning is planned to be an early start to keep motoring south. Forecast is for a warmer day…here’s hoping!
Fun Afloat 