Sailing Adventures: From Pine Island to Vero Beach | Ep 44

Setting Sail from Pine Island

We recently found ourselves at Pine Island, a hidden gem along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). The tranquility here is remarkable, with minimal wakes and a picturesque landscape. However, the shallow waters can be tricky, so careful navigation is essential. While we were anchored, I decided to take on a small project to patch up our bimini cover, which had seen better days.

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Using binding twine and safety pins, I attempted a makeshift repair. It may not have been the most aesthetically pleasing solution, but it was functional enough to keep the sun at bay. My wife, however, was less than impressed with the patch job and pointed out that it wouldn’t hold up against rain. Nevertheless, it was a start!

Journey to Vero Beach

With our bimini patched and the anchor pulled up, we set off towards Vero Beach. The weather had been chilly, so we bundled up in flannels. After three days of cold weather in Pine Island, the prospect of warmer temperatures in Vero was inviting.

The journey was straightforward. I took the helm while my wife kept a watchful eye on our navigation. The autopilot was working well, allowing me to relax a bit while still steering the boat through the narrow channels. As we navigated, we encountered a few pelicans and a handful of speedy boats, adding to the lively atmosphere of the ICW.

Arriving at Our Anchorage

Upon reaching our anchorage, we were greeted by a stunning view. The area was tight, with only about 70 feet of chain out. It was a challenge to find a good spot, but we managed to anchor without too much trouble. The swing radius was adequate, but we had to be cautious about our surroundings.

After securing the boat, cleaning the deck was next on our agenda. My wife joked about the mess, and it was clear that we had some work ahead of us. A quick wash down of the deck was necessary before we could fully relax and enjoy our time in Vero Beach.

Exploring Vero Beach

Once settled, we decided to explore the town. Our friends were already in the area, and we were excited to meet up with them. The local vibe was welcoming, and we were eager to see what Vero Beach had to offer.

As we wandered through the town, we stumbled upon a charming doggy library, a fun little initiative where you could take a stick or leave a stick. It was a delightful touch that added to the community feel. We also encountered the infamous oversized chairs that seem to be a staple at every beach we visit.

A Taste of Local Cuisine

After some exploration, hunger struck. We found ourselves drawn to a nearby Mexican restaurant. My wife opted for a margarita and a bowl of chips, while I enjoyed a filling meal. It was the perfect way to refuel after a day of sailing and exploring.

Returning to the Boats

Following our meal, we made our way back to the boats. Our dog was eagerly waiting, and we were ready to settle in for the evening. It had been a long day filled with adventure, and we were grateful to have friends to share it with.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Back on the boat, I had some maintenance tasks to tackle. One of the first things on my list was to adjust the anchor rollers. My wife had been having some trouble with them, so I wanted to ensure everything was functioning smoothly. I decided to make the adjustments while floating in the dinghy to avoid any mishaps.

After swapping the rubber roller for a nylon one, I was pleased with the improvement. This should make it easier for my wife to operate the anchor without any risk of injury. It’s all about making life on the boat as safe and comfortable as possible.

Cleaning the Hull

Next on the agenda was cleaning the hull. We had quite a bit of growth on the bottom, which is common when you spend time in murky waters. Armed with my trusty beard scraper and a long pole, I set to work. It was satisfying to see the hull getting cleaner with each stroke.

As I scrubbed, I noticed some barnacles and algae clinging on. Thankfully, they were easy to remove. Our boat was starting to look more like its old self, and I felt a sense of accomplishment as I worked. It’s amazing what a little elbow grease can achieve!

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey

As our time in Vero Beach unfolds, we are excited about the adventures that lie ahead. From meeting friends to exploring new places, every moment on the water is a reminder of why we love this lifestyle. Whether it’s fixing up the boat, enjoying local cuisine, or simply soaking in the sun, we cherish each experience.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey south and embrace the life of sailing!

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