How is time passing so fast? We spent 2 nights at Skull Creek marina in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Friends connected us with Burt & Prue Preston who were kind enough to give us a little tour of their community, Hilton Head Plantation, and drive us to a Publix! The Plantation is a self-contained gated community with 4000 homes, a medical care center, fire station, security, etc. We were in awe of the huge live oak trees with Spanish moss and an alligator basking in the sun by a pond. We walked to Hudson’s -a family-owned and operated seafood restaurant where I had the best “ low -country boil”! Best shrimp ever and John loved the hush puppies (“ donuts instead of bread!👏)
One short overnight got us to Cumberland Island, Georgia, where we anchored for 4 nights. Before arriving at the anchorage, we were hailed by coast guard to alter our course south -to Fernandina Beach- due to required security zone around a submarine heading out to sea from Kings Bay navy base. After circling for about 90 mins, we were notified we could proceed the 3 miles to our anchorage as the sun was delayed. We subsequently saw the sub being escorted down the river 2 days later. Interesting fact…. when launched, the sub passes through an de-magnifying cage so it can be stealth underwater. Super cool!
Cumberland island is a national park but once the home of the Carnegies ( the Philadelphia-based steel magnate). The mansion burned down but ruins remain, as well as many of the buildings and foundations. The beach is incredibly beautiful with so many shells. Walking the island, we saw many wild horses, armadillos, huge live oaks and birds. Camping is allowed at dedicated sites by permit. The northern end of the island is more forested. It is truly a magnificent place and has the feel of stepping back in time.
One long day motoring brought us to St Augustine where we are currently on a mooring waiting, again, for a weather window to get to West Palm Beach. We’ve been able to get a few projects done while here ( replace prop on dinghy motor, major grocery delivery to marina, fixed stern shower leak). We’re getting lots of walking in and exploring St Augustine, but getting antsy to move again. We’ll be here for Thanksgiving with a plan to depart Friday AM with West wind and smaller seas ( 🤞).
Happy Thanksgiving family & friends! We love & miss you!
Lots of pictures will be loaded in the “ Gallery”-