Fort Matanzas National Monument; March 12, 2011

Link to anchorage at Fort Matanzas National Monument

We are in northern Florida, on the Intracoastal waterway, about 76 miles south of Georgia.

This view is looking forward towards the bow.

Houses line both sides of the channel most of the way

Between towns there are sections of undeveloped land and islands. 

 We saw several dolphin today

Pelicans have a long neck, but keep it tucked in while flying

We are anchored next to this Spanish fort. It was built in 1740 and is now a national monument.

 It can be reached only by boat and tour boats were coming and going until dark.

 It was quite startling the first time they shot the cannon!

Ormond Beach (North of Daytona Beach, FL); March 11, 2011

Link to anchorage at Ormond Beach via Google Maps

We didn't travel yesterday due to the weather forecast of "soaking rain with embedded thunderstorms."

These two boats were at anchored also, but left during the day.

Passing by Daytona Beach today, we saw three airplanes  - all pulling big flags advertising insurance. 

One was specific to motorcycle's -  it is "bike week" there.

The Delta IV Spy Satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral tonight. Here is what the contrail looked like from about 50 miles off our stern deck.

New Smyrna Beach, FL; March 9, 2011

Link to anchorage at New Smyrna Beach via Google Maps

Lighthouse on the Atlantic  - 

Looking north from our anchorage on the ICW 

 NE towards the ocean inlet  

Interesting things we saw today. . . . . . . 

Houses along the ICW

Sections of houses are divided with waterways,  like alleys for boats.

Mosquito Lagoon (East of Oak Hill); March 8, 2011

Link to anchorage in Mosquito Lagoon via Google Maps

We practiced taking the dingy off the foredeck today. We used the main sail halyard to lift and lower it into the water. Launching it stern first, it didn't take on any water. The process needs a few adjustments, but we were pleased with the first try.

We saw this stingray in some shallow grassy water.

Birds are always plentiful and fun to watch.

The dingy surfing behind the boat.

Titusville; March 7, 2011

Link to anchorage at Titusville, FL via Google Maps

Story of the day: Wind and spray. We stayed in the shelter of the cockpit area while underway.

Palm Shores, FL; March 6, 2011

Link to anchorage at Palm Shores, FL via Google Maps

SALUTE!

Got the flag up today - Yeah

Pelican's diving are a common sight