Quick update so ya'll don't think I am in Panama
We ended up leaving from Destin, heading to Panama City, on the outside. The weather was almost perfect and we were enjoying the ride so much....I ended up going straight to St Joes. We then went up the canal, straight past Apalachicola to Crab Island. We will be back through in the spring and will be sure to stop for several days on the way back. We did not feel an overnight stop would do it justice.
So...Had a great stay anchored out in the bay and the dinghy got a lot of use. Only one other boat in the whole bay. Wednesday we were talking to the owners of 'the other boat' (a KK Manatee) and decided to join a flotilla of Loopers who were leaving that afternoon headed for Tarpon Springs. Followed them about half way across, veering a little more East around midnight and arrived off the mouth of Crystal River at dawn. Followed the tide up at 13:00 and anchored in the little lake in front of the town. Ray, from the Rhino went ashore and secured us 2 berths at Pete's Marina for $180/week including electric. He has been promoted to Master Marina Negotiator!
So, we are in Crystal River for a week!!