(Two If By Sail finally under sail)

After boating since 2002, the one thing we have learned is to be flexible and not depend on a schedule. This was reinforced again this past week. We had planned to head out this past Sunday or Monday after the winds subsided. Well, the winds did finally abate last weekend, so Monday was the day. Unfortunately, one of us came down and went down, with a virus. Two days later, we were again looking at heading out to meet up with our friends at Pelican anchorage. Unfortunately, at least 40 to 50 boats were planning the same trip for Easter weekend. Our friends decided to keep on moving north to Cape Haze. Because we had just been there, we decided to stay put, do some day SAILING, and wait until next week to head back out. We will try to join our friends when they come back south. This has been a different spring.
Did I mention day sailing? We had a great afternoon sail today with winds averaging 12 to 15 knots. In a harbor over 20 miles in length, there may have been three other sailboats out there. There is a reason Charlotte Harbor is considered one of the best sailing venues in the United States.
Our ever-changing plans now include a trip to go out Redfish Pass next week, anchoring the night before at Useppa Island and then back in to Pelican. Also, Stump Pass is currently being dredged and due to reopen at the end of April. That would be another great three to four day trip.
As I have said, you must remain flexible when boating.