15 December
Here is a visual representation of what we have been experiencing the last few days.
In looking out, it appears we are on a large body of water.
But…..the reality is that we have to stay in the narrow channel or risk running aground.
The channel is marked by the day markers – and so in this vast expanse of water our maneuvering area is between these markers and makes this expanse of water very small for us.
We have been surprised by how many derelict and sunken boats we have seen along the way in Florida. It is unfortunate that these boats are not removed and are allowed to become an eyesore.
Our only unexpected hazard today was the NASA railroad bridge which is unattended and reportedly usually open. As we were approaching, someone hailed us on the radio and warned us that the bridge was not in the full open position. Oops…. we thought it looked a bit wrong but with this confirmation Bob edged over to the side to be sure our mast would clear the partial opening.
We arrived in Titusville where we were assigned a slip where we had to do a 4 point tie up – going stern in and securing the bow to two different pilings. We hadn’t done one of these docking since Elizabeth City and were definitely not prepared! But with the patience of the dockhands we got the boat secured with out harming the boat, the neighbor’s boat, or the dock. (We were also glad there were no other residents around to watch us!)
Titusville doesn’t have the same number of restaurants as New Smyrna, but we were able to walk to one on the water under the bridge nearby. As we were finishing up our dinner, friends we first met on Thanksgiving on Lady’s Island, and again on Jekyll Island wandered past. Looking to be with other boaters, they joined us for a drink and good conversation making for a pleasant end to a pleasant day.