28 - 29 MARCH 2012 DOG ISLAND AND ACROSS THE GULF

From Apalachicola we we anchored at Dog  Island off Carabelle, FL We took the Girls ashore for obvious reasons. The Island is not very wide so we could easily get to the Gulf side.  Nissa absolutely loved the surf just as her Mom, Freya, did! It was fun to watch.  As usual, Osita didn't show any interest other than being happy to be on shore.

We had planned to spend the night at anchor and get underway at first light for Cedar Key which would be a 10 hr fetch across the gulf and then on to Tarpon Springs the next day. When we contacted the Cedar Key City Marina which is listed in the 2012 Water Way Guide, we were told that there was no place to tie up.  The new pier is for fishing only and is too tall for tie up - another city person called us to confirm that the info that we had been given was accurate. We found out that the person that was the Community Planning Person mentioned in the guide was no longer with the City........SO.....at 1900hrs we hoisted the anchor and headed directly across the Gulf to Tarpon Springs.  The seas were 2-3ft but at short interval so it was quite uncomfortable. (still better than the last time we crossed in 4-5ft with wind and rain) They started to flatten after midnight.  It was a really dark night as well.  We are thankful for the Chart Plotter, Capt. Program and good Nav equipment. We entered the Anclote River at 1045hrs and arrived at Turtle Cove Marina, Tarpon Springs at 1130hrs.

We were greeted by the Dock Master, Peter Dawood, who helped us with lines and then drove us to the Office via golf cart to register  He then proceeded to tour the premises showing us the available facilities.  This is a great location!  We can walk to Restaurants, mainly Greek which we love, and to the main street in the old town.  Lots of tourists on the weekends but more quiet on weekdays.

               These are the large storage barns off our stern.  We are thankful for the handy grassy area.

The pool looked inviting but we are a little early in the season.  It was sooooo cold.  The pool is located at the Club House. There are showers, a free laundry area and a bar which was open on the weekend.  There is also a bar on the docks - Thought of RYC - it is the Tiki Bar!

The only negative here is the long distances to the facilities. The Dock Master said that he plans to have bicycles available in the near future..