We weathered the front well at Pine Island and stayed an extra day to allow the rain to pass. The next day we moved on and finally anchored just south of Fernandina Beach at Alligator Creek.

We are familiar with this area. Thirty years ago we ran aground close by and spend the night healed over waiting for the tide to float us free.

That said, yesterday morning after getting underway the tide pushed us unexpectedly and we stopped abruptly. Yup, we were aground!

To add a sense of déjà vu it was an outgoing tide. We spent the next several hours watching the water holding us up go away. Nothing to do now but hold on!

Luckily for us there was little wind. Also we were several hundred yards off the ICW so the wake from passing boats had little effect. Regardless, by noon we were over nearly 45 degrees.

By 1600 we were upright, floating, and underway. After a careful check of the engine room and locker stowage we headed for Cumberland Island. If we have to wait 30 more years for another grounding here that would be alright.

Today we packed lunch, water, and cameras and went ashore for a 6 hour walk. This is a beautiful National Seashore with lots to see and explore. Our favorite sights, besides the wild horses, are the monstrous live Oak Trees that sometimes look like spiders from some 1960's creature feature movie.

Tomorrow we leave heading north. Depending on the wind direction and velocity will determine if we stay on the ICW or head off shore.

More Later,
US