Back in the Sunshine State

Please excuse my tardiness in providing an update, but we have been busy having fun!!!

We left Beaufort, SC on Tuesday morning and headed toward Savannah, GA for the day. It was a relatively short trip and the seas and weather conditions were perfect! We arrived fairly early docking ENCORE in a maritime suburb called Thunderbolt and from there staged our visit to Savannah. 

The beautiful homes of Beaufort

Savannah sunset

Thunderbolt Marine - a new favorite

What a great day we had seeing the city on a two hour guided tour, seeing all the historical points of interest, old homes and then visiting the shoppes along the River Walk. From pralines, to sourwood honey, sweet tea, peaches and vadilia onions, we were absorbed in Georgia treats. That evening we dined at the "world famous" Old Pink House, which was both delightful and delicious! There is something to be said for gracious living and southern hospitality. Not to mention, I think I can say I've had my fill of collard greens, grits and buttermilk biscuits!

On Wednesday, we awoke to a complimentary morning newspaper and a box of Krispy Creme Doughnuts on our stern steps. After a cup of hot coffee (and Chai for the Admiral), we were ready to take on anything the day might hand us (sugar highs do that you know). The good news is, we had VERY calm winds and seas as we departed Thunderbolt and headed toward our next port of call at St.Simons, GA. 

We made such good time and the conditions were so favorable, that we contemplated going on but that meant we would have to navigate Jeykll Island Creek at dead low tide. While only a few miles long, this creek is notorious for its very narrow channel and shallow water. Once again, discretion being the better part of valor, I opted to call it day and enjoy the afternoon in St. Simons, GA.

This morning, we left St. Simons and traversed Jeykll Island Creek at HIGH tide and cruised through without a care. Again, the seas were incredibly calm and ENCORE ran beautifully. There were times when we almost felt like we weren't even moving the waters were so placid. I guess this was part of the "payback" from our otherwise difficult cruise conditions when we traveled north in the Spring. 

After another wonderful day on the water (and listening to Radio Margaritaville), we crossed over into the Sunshine State early this afternoon arriving in St. Augustine for the night. After refueling, a quick wash down (for the boat and for me), a cocktail in hand and temperatures back in the 80's, it's starting to feel like home.

Tomorrow, we make our longest (and final) run of the trip to Cocoa, FL and our new "home port" at Cocoa Village Marina. A final update to follow this weekend.

Full moon - St. Augustine, FL