Mobile to Gulfport, FL

Brian Bagby

21 Dec 2025 — 32 min read

December 3, 2025

Returned from Massachusetts after spending time with family for Thanksgiving. Arrived back to the boat late afternoon. Everything looked fine on the boat. Before we left Two Georges Marina to go back home, we met John McGee. He is the AGLCA harbor host here. While we were away, John periodically checked on our boat, making sure our electric was still working, etc. It was peace of mind knowing someone was looking out for the boat while we were away. First order of business after getting off our last flight, was to book a rental vehicle. While we were going through the rental process, Paul from Pelican showed up. He was dropping off his rental. We gave Paul a ride back to the marina, dropped Heidi off at the boat and got her settled. Next, it was out to get groceries, mostly perishables, then back to the boat to put it all away. Then we had Paul and Jill join us for dinner. We had such good meals at McGuires Irish Pub when we had first arrived at Two Georges, that we decided to head back there again. After we got back from dinner, Brian returned the car and got an Uber back to the boat.

This morning, we were out of slip by 7:20. About 4 miles out, we discovered our windlass was not working. We were planning on spending the next several nights anchoring. Our main anchor weighs about 75lbs. Even if we could drop for anchor, pulling it up would be difficult for us. Brian called Two Georges to let them know the issue. We let Paul and Jill know about the issue as they were traveling with us. “No worries, we’ll head back with you and anchor out in the bay.”

We turned around and headed back to the marina so they could fix the issue. The first marine tech was all over the boat trying to figure it out – no such luck. Guess he has to bring in the big guns :). It took several hours trying to figure out the problem. Once the techs eliminated any obvious error they may have made when they took apart the windlass to plug holes, it was onto dismantling the platform the windlass was sitting on. We had previously discovered a leakage problem coming from the windlass; the water would drip into the storage area at the head of our bed. Before we left to fly back home for Thanksgiving, the marina employees dismantled the windlass platform. There were at least 7 holes from previous work done over the years on the boat that had not been filled. So, when it rained, the water would wick under the platform and drip into the storage area. Our main concern would be water wicking into the core and spreading throughout the boat. Back to the issue: the techs then dismantled the windlass on the platform and discovered that one wire was not properly attached. Problem solved. It took hours, though, to track it down. After securing the loose wire, the windlass was put back on the platform and an adhesive was applied between the windlass and the platform. We were moved off the fuel dock and put back into the slip we had left this morning. Paul and Jill were also able to secure a slip for the night. While all of this was going on, Lauren made a baked mac and cheese with ham for a late lunch/early dinner while Brian changed the Racor filter unit for the generator. The old one was leaking and not up to current codes. Early evening we played Liverpool with Paul and Jill and agreed on leaving at 7 the next morning.

December 4, 2025

This morning, we were out of our slip just before 7 and headed out. We had just entered the bay when our engine died. Brian said he knew what it was; when he changed out the filter, he shut off the fuel line and had not turned it back on. It should have been a simple matter of filling the fuel filters with diesel fuel, tightening them down and restarting the engine. While Brian was trying to remedy the situation, Paul was willing to tow us back to the fuel dock. After 4 times of doing the same thing over and over again, the engine continued to shut down. Brian was persistent though. He then opened both fuel filters up and replaced them with new fuel filters; filled them with fuel, snug the covers down and finally, we were on our way. It only took 1.5.

When we were finally on our way, the skies were overcast and it was chilly. As we puttered along, the heavens opened up and it poured non-stop until we arrived at Sun Harbor Marina (7 hours). The winds had also picked up which kicked up the waves a bit. It wasn’t really uncomfortable, but it was a long dreary day.

When we arrived at the marina, the winds had picked up further, the rain was pouring down and visibility was pretty poor. We were directed to a slip and got in with no issues, though we couldn’t put out fenders as there was maybe an inch on either side of the boat to the dock and the pilings on the other side. Walt from L’ Adjustment was there to greet us. Tonight, the marina is hosting all the Loopers here in the marina for a pizza party.

Since it rained all day, Brian checked to see if the locker in the state room was dry. Nope! It was leaking again. Brian called Two Georges Marina where the work was done to discuss. Josh, a manager, called the Sun Harbor Marina to see what kind adhesive they stocked. They didn’t have much, but an employee here just happened to be taking a ride to West Marine and would pick up what Josh recommended. Josh also paid for it, seeing as they did the work and … Now we wait for several dry days for everything to dry out before Brian can apply the adhesive. Hopefully, that will stop the leaking.

Brian reading: finished Dead Mountain by Preston & Child

Now reading: Obsidian Chamber by Preston & Child

Lauren: Bone Island Mambo by Tom Corcoran

12/05/25

Last night, the Marina hosted a pizza party for the Loopers. There was quite the crowd. Along with meeting other Loopers, we got to see Sarah & Walt from L’ Attitude Adjustment and Matt & Lee on Slow Poke. Rick & Michelle on Flour Power and Wes on Toscana came up to us knowing we were on Heidi-Ho (didn’t know them, but we have a distinct trawler). It was a nice stress-relieving evening swapping stories of our travels. Brian never received the silicone adhesive. We left the marina before the office opened. Getting out of the slip was freaky. The winds were whipping and there was a strong current. We were stuck to the pilings on our starboard side and there was a large yacht next to us on the same side. Lauren put the engine in reverse and kept the wheel straight and went for it. The wind was blowing in one direction and the current in the opposite direction. She backed out fast, but was panicking because the thrusters did not help. The bow of the boat blew over to starboard and she was afraid we were going to hit the yacht. She got the boat out of the slip with no mishaps, but she felt it could have gone much smoother. What she should have done, was turned the wheel to starboard, so when she backed out the bow would (hopefully) stay more centered or more to port; the beauty of hindsight.

The winds abated after a couple of hours and the rain ended. The sky stayed overcast for the rest of the day. Our trip was rather monotonous, though the weather was gloriously warm. We did see two dolphins, a small racoon, an eagle and thousands of coots. We stayed strictly between markers as even in the larger expanse of waters, it was so shallow the birds were standing in the water. After an 8.5 hour run, we dropped anchor in Apalachicola. Pelican is also anchored near us. Tomorrow, we have a short run of only about 20 miles. We will also anchor. Sunday the weather looks great for us to start our first run along the Big Bend which runs from the Panhandle to the main part of Florida. We will have 3 or 4 runs to get there. Some boaters will actually do an overnight on the Gulf of Mexico (weather permitting) instead of the shorter day jaunts to get to the same destination.

December 6, 2025

Left our anchorage at 8am along with Pelican and moseyed out to the main channel. About ½ hour into the run, the engine died. Brian immediately dropped the anchor mid-channel. The channel is fairly narrow even though it looks like we're in the middle of a great lake and just outside the channel it’s very shallow. He went to the engine room and opened the fuel filter and saw that the fuel had been sucked out of it. He refilled it with diesel, sealed it back up and changed the fuel supply to another tank. After that, the engine ran fine for the rest of the day. Brian’s first thought was that we had bad fuel. After thinking on it, he surmised that the problem might be a clogged fuel tank vent. On our arrival tomorrow to Sea Hag Marina in Steinhatchi he will pull apart the vent to see if anything is clogging it. We actually had this happen months ago and it was a clogged vent; there was a dead bumble bee in the vent. The vents are small, so something as small as a bee creates havoc. Our travel tomorrow will start in the dark about 6 am and will take us about 8-9 hours to reach our destination. Lauren is not looking forward to starting in the dark, but it beats arriving to our destination in the dark. We anchored for the night at Dog Island. We were the only two boats there.

Brian reading: Assegai by Wilbur Smith

Lauren: The Guilty by David Baldacci

December 7, 2025

Pulled anchor up at 6 am – pitch black. We wanted to make our next destination before dark, hence the early start. Do not like starting in the dark, but really do not like getting into a marina or anchorage in the dark. We were on the fence about leaving as one: it was going to be a long day on the water and two: we looked at numerous weather sites; most were the same, but the National Weather Service was completely different (not a good forecast). We decided to go and if it was bad, we would turn around and go into Carrabelle and get a slip to wait out the weather. We pushed through. Lauren was feeling queasy to start as we were pitching around quite a bit and because it was pitch black, she didn’t have the horizon to focus on. Once it lightened up, she was able to keep her eye on the horizon and the queasiness passed. Heidi was given her medication as she was not happy with the bucking of the boat. We have been in worse conditions and decided to push through. It was a sloppy mess out there; overcast, poured, not too windy, but the waves were all over the place making our ride a bit uncomfortable. Most of the day, the waves were 2-3 feet with some 4 footers thrown in. Heidi’s medication never kicked in; she may have spat it out. Either way, she panted non-stop for 5 hours. She just couldn’t be comforted. After 6 hours, the engine quit. Brian notified Pelican and they slowed and hovered near us while we got it going again. We traveled another hour and it died again. This has been happening lately and is so frustrating. He changed diesel tanks again, so we know it’s not a blocked vent. He got it started again and that lasted a whole 15 minutes. Thankfully, we were only an hour out from our final destination, so we dropped the anchor and called Sea Tow. Paul on Pelican was willing to tow us in, but the channel getting into the marina was narrow and 3 miles long. We told him to go on ahead and get his slip space. We only waited maybe 10 minutes for Darryl on Sea Tow to come to our rescue. We hooked up and moseyed through the channel to the marina. Brian called the marina to find out where Sea Tow was to deposit us. We were told to take the end dock. Well, there were already two large boats on the dock. Brian called the marina again stating same; we were told there should be plenty of room for us. Our boat is 50 foot overall; there was about 15 feet of space on the dock. Brian called the marina again; this time we were told to take the slip next to where they were originally going to put us, but make sure it wasn’t a Captain’s slip. ???? Brian asked how were we suppose to know that. We were told there would be a sign. While still tethered to Sea Tow, Lauren was able to start the engine and kept it running until we could get into a slip. The slip was so short that we couldn’t get off the boat and there were no hookups for electric or water. We had made reservations 2 days ago for 3 nights. We were never told it was first come, first serve and that there weren’t enough electric pedestals for all slips. Someone with a bit authority came down and had us move to another slip (thankfully, the engine was still running & Sea Tow stayed just in case). Got into the longer slip and as we were hooking up our electric, noticed a sign on the inner portion of the dock that we were in a Captain’s slip. Good grief!! Lauren was not going to move again. She was tired, cranky and had a headache from all the stress of the day. We may get booted tomorrow. Had about 15 minutes to change from our drenched clothing to something nice and dry and head to the marina’s restaurant with Paul and Jill. We met up with Hervey on Blue Bird. He also made the crossing today and his boat got pretty beat up. His wife chose not to join us as the trip had done her in. Lauren actually felt the same way, but was glad she ended up going; it was a good meal and we got to blow off some steam. Back on board, Lauren got her laundry going. Heidi is feeling much better and is Velcroed to Lauren. The upside of today’s trip; we got a great ab workout with all the bucking of the boat and we saw several dolphins.

December 9, 2025

Yesterday, Brian, again, tried to figure out our engine dilemma. He talked to office personnel and they recommended James, a local marine mechanic. James came out later in the day and check everything that Brian thought could have been the problem. James’ diagnosis; bad fuel pump. He would check his supplies to see if he had one. If not, it would have to be ordered and it would take about a week. Fortunately, James had a brand new one and would come by this morning to installed it.

Since we spent most of yesterday waiting on the mechanic, Lauren was able to get several loads of laundry done. Heidi was given a bath, boat was vacuumed and cleaned. She also baked 2 small loaves of banana bread; walnuts in ours and the one for Paul and Jill had no nuts. Just as we were finishing lunch, Jill from Pelican knocked on our boat to let us know there was a Looper get together at the marina restaurant. Off we went. Lauren was exhausted; the rough crossing finally caught up with her finally. She went along anyways and got to meet new Loopers. That afternoon, Lauren decided to try a slice of the banana bread. It was inedible; she had unknowingly substituted kosher salt for sugar. She was not happy and upset that she made the mistake and also wasted all those ingredients. Brian brought out the label maker and labeled the sugar and salt containers. She was so unhappy, that she baked off another batch; this time making sure she didn’t make the same mistake. Later, we had dinner at the marina restaurant with Paul and Jill and Hervey and Kitty on Blue Bird. All of the meals ordered were very good. No complaints about the meals.

James came by mid-morning with the new fuel pump and installed it. He left us our old one, but it needs a re-build kit. Brian will order one and keep on board for a spare that we hope we will never need. We are leaving the motor running for several hours to make sure everything keeps working.

This morning, all Loopers that were here left except Paul and Jill and us. As long as no more issues are discovered while here, we will be leaving in the morning. Not sure how far we will travel; either to Cedar Springs or Crystal River to anchor. It all depends on the weather, of course.

While waiting for James to show, Lauren made banana bread. Paul and Jill will join us for a snack.

Brian reading: The Gods Themselves by Isaac Asimov

Lauren: Wicked Ways by Lisa Jackson & Nancy Bush

December 10, 2025

During our stay at Dead Man Marina at Steinhatchee, we talked to locals that told us about Hurricane Helene that hit in September 2024. It was a category 4 storm that brought catastrophic storm surges and winds, widespread flooding and massive destruction to the Big Bend area. The marinas along Big Bend are still recovering, trying to rebuild. Unfortunately, many businesses were not able to recover. It wasn’t just businesses that were destroyed, but also housing, infrastructure, etc. Dead Man Marina had a storm surge of close to 20 feet; it lifted the docks up over the pilings which are at least 25 feet above normal water level. The marina building had water up into the second floor. Everything, not just the merchandise, but the shelving, bins, counters, etc. all washed right out of the Walmart Supercenter. Steinhatchee had zero fatalities, but there were 250 in the Southeast that lost their lives due to the storm. It’s so difficult to comprehend such devastation.

This morning, we were scheduled to leave our slip about 7 at Dead Man Marina, but it was foggy and we opted to wait at least another ½ hour before leaving. The channel was a 3-mile run from the marina out to the Gulf. The fog hadn’t lifted yet and we couldn’t see the channel markers until we were practically on top of them; glad we have the chart plotter to show us the way. We were both hoping there would be no further engine problems as we journeyed along; it was a nagging thought for both of us all day. We had an uneventful run, overcast skies, numerous pelicans and other aquatic birds and several dolphin sightings. Anchored was dropped at Cedar Key. The weather apps show 20+ knot winds all night long from the north. Cedar Key will hopefully block most of the wind and it should be a fairly calm night for us. Tomorrow, we head to Anclote Key; a 58-mile run and drop anchor again. The weather looks good; no choppy water or high winds.

December 13, 2025

On the 11^th we left Cedar Key at 7. It was a long, rolly ride. Waves were hitting us on the stern starboard quarter; an uncomfortable ride, corkscrewing all day. Heidi did not do well; had to dose her, but it didn’t really take. She eventually calmed down about ¾ way into the trip. On the upside, the sun was out and the winds were down. The glare from the sun on the water made it difficult spotting crab pots. Anchor was dropped at Anclote Key at 3pm in about 10 feet of water. It was a peaceful night.

Yesterday, knowing it was a really short run, we waiting until 8 to pull up the anchor. We traveled the inside passage which was about 3 miles shorter than the outside passage. About 2 miles from the marina, Pelican was having engine problems. Paul dropped his anchor to figure out the problem. There was water in his fuel filter. He told us to go ahead and get into our slip. Paul refilled the filter with fuel. Engine started up again, but he couldn’t go much faster than 5 knots. So, he moseyed into the marina and was able to get into his slip. Paul’s conclusion to his problem is that he may have gotten bad fuel back in Steinhatchee. While Paul was taking care of his boat, Brian called ahead to the marina letting them know we had arrived and were looking for our assigned dock slip. Shannon, the dock master, directed us to our slip and met us there to help with lines. Because there was a bit of current, Brian wanted Lauren to back the boat into the slip. Lauren, of course, was reluctant, but gave it a go. Yes, the current caused a bit of a problem, but the boat was backed into the slip with no mishaps. All was well, except Lauren’s nerves; it took her a ½ hour to calm down. Since we have to kill some time before we head home for the Holidays, we opted to stay put here for a week.

Paul and Jill joined us for a walk not too far from the marina for a lunch. We met Jane and Douglas on Eck2Sea; Loopers we had communicated with via NEBO, but had never met until now. Mid-afternoon, we saw Cross Rhodes pull in. We had met Tina and Kevin back aways; it was good to touch base with them. After lunch, Brian made plans to have a diver come by and replace our zincs in the morning.

After breakfast this morning, Jill and Lauren went to the open-air market being held at Coachman Park adjacent to the marina grounds. There were many vendors; a large majority catering to pets and there were a lot of people strolling around with dogs. There was one guy who walked around with a parrot on his shoulder, untethered and squawking away (the parrot). There were varied crafts on display and numerous food options. Lauren bought strawberries and blueberries and two types of bread; sweet for Brian and savory for Lauren.

Back on board, Brian stated that the diver would be back the beginning of next week, as we needed a new zinc on the shaft. The boat next to us is getting a cleaning and buff job. Brian made arrangements for the crew to clean and buff the hull of our boat; that will be started next Tuesday and take two days.

Brian cleaned the outside of the boat from top to water line; it was rather crusty with salt from our travels the last few days getting hit from all sides with waves. Lauren went behind him and wiped every inch of it down.

Tonight, there will be a Holiday boat parade. It will go right by the outside dock we backed into, so we will have front row viewing. At the moment, there is a huge sporty fishing boat parked right behind us being decked out with holiday lights and Christmas inflatables. Looking forward to the show.

Brian reading: The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck

Lauren: The Gods Themselves by Isaac Asimov

December 15, 2025

The Christmas boat parade did not disappoint. Though, bit difficult getting pictures as they cruised by a bit fast. A lot of thought and time was put into the decorating of each boat.

Yesterday, Brian polished all the stainless steel from the fly bridge on down and Lauren went behind him and wiped all the stainless steel down with pledge; it’s supposed to keep the finish protected from the elements a bit longer. We decided to take a joy ride on the Jolly Trolley; there are three different routes to choose from. Both Brian and Paul went on-line to sign up and pay in advance and get the senior discount. Brian said it was not a well thought out site. After thinking we were all set, we all walked up to one of the designated Trolley stops and waited and waited and waited. Asked a few of the park workers milling about and were told we were where we were supposed to be. Well, the Trolley never materialized, so we walked into town and shared a meal at a Tai restaurant; food was delicious. We were the only people in the restaurant. At our dinner, we discussed trying to take the Trolley again in the morning, except this time we would walk up to the transit station (for trolleys and busses); thought we’d have better luck.

This morning after breakfast, off we all went to transit station; thankfully, not too far of a walk (Jill is still on crutches). Brian asked if we could get on the trolley to Tarpon Springs. Yes, we could and were told where it would pick us up, which was right there. We waited about 20 minutes. As we were waiting, we observed a lot of people walking by all dressed in black. Most of the men wore black slacks, white shirt and a grey vest or suit jacket. The women all wore black slacks (no skirts or dresses) and white blouses with a black suit coat; even all the outwear was black. Jill thought maybe there was a school for hospitality services nearby and asked a young woman. No, they were all Scientologists. We were told by someone (not a Scientologists) that the City of Clearwater is the headquarter for the Scientologists. Rumor has it they are buying up a lot of property in the downtown and then not doing anything with the building (the locals are not happy). Lauren observed that every one of them that passed us was so serious looking; not much smiling or even talking amongst themselves as they hurried on.

The Trolley arrived; we got on and it would not accept our senior discount. The driver said it wouldn’t unless we had gone on line and filled out the form for the discount; both Brian and Paul did. Not only would it not take the discount, it wouldn’t even allow both Brian and Paul to pay with the app that they had downloaded; so, Paul whipped a $5.00 and paid for all of us. It was inexpensive, but still if a discount is available …. We took our ½ hour or more ride to Tarpon Springs. We wanted to go the Sponge Museum. There was no Museum; got wiped out in a hurricane and never rebuilt. Tarpon Springs is a historic city known for its strong Greek heritage, particularly at the Sponge Docks, which are a working waterfront where sponge divers still process their catch. There are a few touristy shops, a few authentic Greek restaurants and boat tours. The day was sunny and blustery cold. We were all layered. After window shopping we came across a Greek bakery and restaurant. We were all chilled and decided a nice hot beverage and a pastry was fitting. The bakery did not disappoint. After having our treats, we meandered through a couple of sponge stores.

Took the trolley back to the marina; what a jarring ride. Once back, we got the dogs out for their business and a stroll, then walked into town for a Mexican dinner; again, the food was delicious. So far, all meals we’ve eaten out here in the City of Clearwater have not disappointed. After dinner Jill and Paul came to our boat for a game of Liverpool; they’re definitely hooked. They bring Charlie, their King Charles Cavalier. Heidi and Charlie say “hello” and then ignore each other. They both just settle down while we play cards. Heidi has finally let Jill pet her; other than family, Heidi doesn’t let anyone touch her.

Brian reading: Why Does The World Exist by Jim Holt

December 17, 2025

Two nights ago, Lauren couldn’t sleep – she was up for hours. Happens to her every once in a while for no rhyme or reason. She went on deck about 2am and took a couple of pics; then did some Christmas shopping on-line.

Yesterday, Brian spent a good part of the day trying to figure out why our water maker wasn’t working properly. At first, he thought it was because we are now traveling in salt water, so it would be working a bit harder to process drinkable water. He checked all hoses, valves, etc. to make sure there were no leaks; there were none. He finally called a Rainmaker (brand) dealer and spent quite a bit of time with the rep via Facetime. Brian walked him through the setup of the feature and talked extensively regarding the controls and how Brian had it programmed and what the readings were when it was engaged. The rep’s conclusion was that we may need to replace the unit (thankfully it’s still under warranty). The rep was going to call the company in Australia (where these are produced) and discuss the issue with a rep and then hopefully will have a solution by Thursday.

The diver returned and replaced our zincs with new ones. Zincs provide crucial protection by corroding first to protect vital underwater metal parts such as the propeller, shaft, rudder, from galvanic corrosion in saltwater. They work by being the most reactive metal in the electrical circuit, corroding away before the steel, bronze or aluminum parts they are connected to. Another project taken off the to-do list which is on-going.

Brian also changed out the impeller to the engine; it looked practically brand new, but since it was already in place when we purchased our Heid-Ho, he thought it might be prudent to change it out. Research shows the impeller’s longevity varies, but typically requires replacement every 1-3 years or 100-300 operating hours depending heavily on usage. Saltwater demands more frequent changes and the water quality (if it’s sandy; abrasive) could reduce the impeller’s pumping efficiency. The impeller’s purpose is to act as the heart of the cooling system. It has flexible rubber vanes to pump cool water from outside the boat through the engine to prevent overheating, transferring energy from the motor to the water for circulation and heat dissipation.

During the day, we had the hull cleaned and polished; looks great!! Can actually see the shine on it now; it had gotten rather tired looking.

Lauren cooked dinner which consisted of porkchops, mashed potatoes, carrots and caramelized onions – yum! Paul and Jill and Charlie came over for a game of cards.

This morning, Brian went and got a rental vehicle, stopped at a Home Depot and West Marine for parts for various jobs on board. After returning, Paul and Jill met up with us on the dock to ride with us to the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg. What struck us, was that both Lauren and Jill were wearing almost identical black sneakers, black jeans and both had on turquois sweatshirts; you’d think they planned it.

The museum houses a world-class collection of Salvador Dali’s work, featuring over 2,000 pieces spanning his entire career; paintings, drawings and sculptures. The Museum is also renowned for its unique architecture, including a geodesic dome and also offers immersive digital experience. It is a major cultural attraction on the downtown waterfront and recognized internationally for its art, building and innovative visitor experiences. All of us thoroughly enjoyed it.

The two painting, Lincoln and the Nude are the same one.

December 18, 2025

After a hearty breakfast, Brian finished installing a sea strainer for the water maker and installed a new zinc on the heat exchanger on the engine. He also pulled apart more hoses for the water maker looking for clogs. He found no issues with any of the hoses. At the moment he is waiting for a call from the Rainmaker rep regarding our water maker; hoping the call comes in this morning as we would like to get out and about. There is a western museum Brian would like to go to and the downtown of Dunedin looked like a nice area to stroll around. Lauren did a load of laundry, scrubbed down the galley and then scrubbed out the shower basin and the teak lattice flooring – yuck!

December 19, 2025

Well, Brian did get a call back from Richard, the Rainmaker tech. He started to ask Brian see if there were any other hoses that he may overlooked and check them out. Brian told him “no”. He’s already spent days trying to figure the problem out. He requested that the tech come to boat and look the water maker over since it is still under warranty and he was familiar with this product. The tech is scheduled to come to our boat when we are home for the holidays. Neither one of us is comfortable having someone on the boat without us being there.

This morning, Lauren did laundry and started putting aside a few items to take back home. Brian finished putting the netting up on the fly deck and cleaned out the bilge. While he was in the engine room, he discovered puddles of water. The shelves under the galley sink were soaked. Apparently, the drain hose had disconnected under the sink– oops. The shelves were emptied and wiped out. Lauren placed a fan in front of the shelves and that helped dry them out.

The day started out warm and humid. Mid-afternoon, the winds picked up and the temperature dropped significantly. We actually had whitecaps out in the channel. Thankfully, the outer dock that we are backed into is keeping us from rocking and rolling. Lauren took Heidi out for a walk during the high winds. She said that the winds whipping through the stays on the sailboats over at South Dock sounded like a bunch of banshees wailing. She said the pelicans were loving the choppy water; hovering only inches above the water waiting for fish to show, she assumed.

Tonight, we will have our last meal together with Paul and Jill on Pelican. Tomorrow, we all head to Gulfport Marina and leave our boats and head home for the holidays. When we return to our boat, Paul and Jill will already have returned to theirs and head to Lake Okeechobee crossing their wake and will be finished with their Loop journey. They will be missed; we’ve been traveling with them since July.

December 20, 2025

Left our slip at Clearwater Marina at 6:45; still dark, but not pitch black. Got out of the marina and tied up at the pump out dock and emptied the holding tank then went out into the channel and hovered while Pelican did same. We took our time getting to our destination as Pelican is having vibration issues in his drive chain. We encountered several bridges and we’re able to get under all without the bridge tender having to open for us. We top off at 24 feet, so we had about 2 feet clearance; helps that it was low tide. Saw a few dolphins and numerous pelicans hanging out in trees. Arrived late morning at Gulf Port Marina and were requested to first tie off on the fuel dock while they decided where to put us. After Brian filled out all the required paperwork, we were instructed to head to a slip. The slip looked narrow, but we were informed we “should” fit as it was 17’ wide. Our boat has a beam of 15”. The docks were short, so we have to back in so that we can actually get off our boat. Lauren got the boat about ½ way in and it was a snug fit, so much so, that we were stuck. She was able to get the boat out and then we were told to take it to a T-dock. Did, but then the electric pedestal (brand new) kept shorting out and we hadn’t even turned on our breaker. We were then moved to the transient dock which had older electric pedestals; no issues hooking up to them. By the time we had docked, moved off, tried to back into a slip, moved off again, tied off to a T-dock, moved off again and then finally onto the transient dock; uuuggghhh!!!! After all of that the charging unit for the thruster batteries was send an overheating warning. We had to turn off the circuit overnight to let it cool down.

Paul went to get his rental vehicle to pack up and drive home. Brian received a message and picture of our boat via NEBO from Jan on “Fitz Perfectly”. She was able get a picture from their condo in South Pasadena just before the Corey Causeway Bridge. That was awfully nice of her to forward it to us.

We met the couple parked in front of our boat; Canadian couple on a sailboat just getting ready to leave this marina. They have a boat here in the states and one in Canada. Very pleasant and even more so when he discovered we weren’t happy with the current administration; had quite the chat about politics.

After a quick bite of lunch, Lauren started right in on laundry and Brian put the screens on the helm’s windows.

Another boat came in and parked where the sailboat had been. We met AliceAnne and Matt on Drambuie Deux. They have family in the area and will be here for a bit visiting with family and friends.

December 21, 2025

Last night we took a walk into town and had dinner at Pia’s, an Italian restaurant. The food was delicious; enough leftovers for tonight’s meal. Lauren got another two loads of laundry done. Seems like she does laundry often, but cannot put in too many articles of clothing in the machine we have onboard. She treated all of the drains, both galley and the head with baking soda and vinegar. Heidi was given a shower. The boat was thorough cleaned; wiped down and vacuumed. Brian spent his morning transferring fuel from one take to another, checked the oil level on the engine and topped it off, checked the radiator fluids, shut the seacocks except for the water maker because we have a tech coming to the boat in 2 weeks to see if they can figure out the problem with ours. He also trouble shot the wiper motor and discovered that a connection had come loose; reconnected that and adjusted the arms of the wiper and now it works great. He also checked the hydraulic fluid for the steering and added a miniscule amount. He also started looking at places to head to once we arrive back from home in a few weeks. Our packing to go home is done; not much to bring – mostly electronics, warm outwear (the next two weeks up north are going to be very cold; low teens to low 40’s – brrrrr!) and Heidi’s few bits of paraphernalia.

About lunch time, we took a walk into town and stopped at a French restaurant; Lauren had an ice coffee with a plain croissant and Brian had hot tea with a cinnamon roll. On the way back to the boat, we meandered through the neighborhood checking out houses and yards. There are quite a few houses for sale. This is the first time we’ve seen geckos scampering about. When we arrived back to the boat, Jane & Douglas on Eck2Sea were pulling in behind our boat; Brian helped with their lines. We chatted for quite a while and gave them a tour of our boat. This couple has traveled the world by boat; the only ocean they haven’t crossed is the Indian Ocean. They will be leaving their boat right around the corner from the marina and offered to stop by a few times to check on our boat while we were away; awfully nice of them. And finally some pictures along the way.