We just returned home after our first extended trip -- actually our first trip of any kind -- in the C-Dory. Between trailering and floating, we lived on the boat for over six weeks and enjoyed every moment. Our original destination was Key Largo with a detour to Apalachicola for service on the Honda. The intended two days in Apalach turned into two weeks even though Marc, Jef, Lee and crew had the boat ready in a day. We just had too much fun to leave. Wefings earned an A+ from us. Jef was helpful, accommodating and interesting. In addition to running a quality business, Marc is a fun guy and a great concierge. A need or an interest was barely mentioned before he was on the phone making arrangements. Connecting us with Sheryl and her staff at the Water Street Hotel and Marina ensured we would stay well beyond our two days. Curt, the owner, was a gracious host and frequently plied us and the other guest with free oysters. Apalachicola was, in fact, oyster heaven. It was also a quaint small town loaded with good food and good shops. And did I mention the boating was great? Nancy was on alligator watch from the moment she saw her first. As always the people made the place. In addition to the local denizens, the people we shared the docks with were memorable. As has been said many times, you meet the greatest people while boating. Needless to say, our surprising visit to Apalachicola will not be our last.
It was tempting to stay, but we did move on and spent about three weeks in the Key Largo area where, again, a good time was had by all. Great people, great food, great boating, great diving. What else is there? Oh yeah, that. It was great, too.
For Nancy, alligator watch was replaced by manatee watch. One of the highlights of her life happened when the dockmaster hollered at her to get over to the rental dock immediately. He had a manatee for her -- on its back -- lapping up fresh water (I know. I know). But she got to pet its belly and rub its chin. She's still smiling.
The boat is small, and the quarters are tight, but we did not want to come home at all.
The next trip will probably be around August to the Bay Area. We hope to be in a marina in Alameda, and the area offers the potential for more fantastic food and boating. Do you think the fact that I will spend a great deal of my time drywalling my son's attic in Berkeley will have an effect? Even so, I won't be complaining.
Regards to all,
Greg
It was tempting to stay, but we did move on and spent about three weeks in the Key Largo area where, again, a good time was had by all. Great people, great food, great boating, great diving. What else is there? Oh yeah, that. It was great, too.
For Nancy, alligator watch was replaced by manatee watch. One of the highlights of her life happened when the dockmaster hollered at her to get over to the rental dock immediately. He had a manatee for her -- on its back -- lapping up fresh water (I know. I know). But she got to pet its belly and rub its chin. She's still smiling. The boat is small, and the quarters are tight, but we did not want to come home at all.
The next trip will probably be around August to the Bay Area. We hope to be in a marina in Alameda, and the area offers the potential for more fantastic food and boating. Do you think the fact that I will spend a great deal of my time drywalling my son's attic in Berkeley will have an effect? Even so, I won't be complaining.
Regards to all,
Greg
