Yes, we are still in Ft Lauderdale at the dock behind Certified Diesel, but the knot log now reads 31 instead of 9. Progress has been made.
Last week we drove south to Marathon and stayed two nights with Skip and Linda Shipman. They have a delightful cottage looking out over Florida Bay. The weather was perfect, it was a great visit, and Lynel fired the cannon for the striking of the colors at dusk.
When we returned to the boat, things were looking better. There was a day delay waiting for some fabrication work on the exhaust, but the engine re-assembly progressed with no problems. Thursday we were able to start the engine and do preliminary checks, and Friday we completed the sea trial. The trip down the river is nearly 7 miles, but is slow because of current and time spent waiting for bridges. It sure felt good to be off shore in the open Atlantic! The engine ran perfectly, with no significant problems or leaks. There are a few minor details to be completed tomorrow, then the galley has to go back together. The insurance surveyor will be here Tuesday to review all that has been done. We don't want to be over confident, but if all goes well, we should be out of here by Friday.
If we get a good weather window, our current plan would be to clear into the Bahamas at West End on Grand Bahama island, and then spend 10 to 14 days in the Abacos. Depending on weather, timing, and whether we are in the mood for a longer passage, our landfall on returning would be Fort Pierce, Port Canaveral, or even further north. Since we have already visited St. Augustine and Savannah, we will head to Charleston as our next major destination. But after being stuck in Ft Lauderdale for so long, we do need some time anchored out too. We are still expecting to be in the Chesapeake by the end of May.
If all this actually comes together, I'll try to post once more before we head offshore. Internet connections in the Bahamas will be less available and less reliable, although I'm expecting to be able to check e-mail at restaurants or marinas.