The voyages of the Motor Vessel Betty Lou
5/31/21 As we start Tortuga Tour Leg 4–our Journey Home with new crew–our destination today is Long Key to anchor. The winds are up again, and it’s Miriam and Phoebe’s first time voyaging on Betty Lou. The Admiral will have to be relaxed even if …
5/30/21 There is no boat destination today. This morning after pancakes for six, we will do some chores. The remainder of the day will be family time. I will share some highlights/excursions briefly. Today is the Admiral’s birthday. I mixed up the promised pancakes, but …
5/29/21: Marathon, birthday and crew change: Destination today is Marathon, Florida (several keys) to stay in the Marathon Marina for two nights. Matthew is bringing Miriam and Phoebe who will finish the voyage with us. Matthew and Adriane will return to Atlanta on Monday. We …
5/28/21 Destination today is Saddlebunch Keys to anchor – sixth night (a new record). This is a short day and a sheltered anchorage. Several days have passed since I wrote 5/27. I may not remember as much but I will share what’s still there. We …
5/27/21 Destination today is Boca Grande to anchor for the night. It will be another windy, wavy start but the forecast is for diminishing winds and smaller wave heights. Despite using water to wash the dinghy, take cockpit showers and just everyday general use, we …
5/26/21 Destination today is to revisit Fort Jefferson and then go snorkeling. It is our last day here, so we must make the best use of our time. It was another rocky night on Betty Lou. The rocking and the water slapping the sides and …
5/25/21 The plan for today is snorkeling at Loggerhead Key. Betty Lou rocked all night long and the waves knocked loudly on the hull. The rocking was not aggressive/not gentle, but not disturbing. When you are lying down, your body rocks with the boat which …
Dry Tortugas Passage from Boca Grande: Our destination today is finally the Dry Tortugas! There was some doubt about the weather window opening, but we are really going now! The Admiral slept through the alarm (the perks of being Admiral), but the other two crew …
Back on the Water: Today we head for Boca Grande Key in Boca Grande Channel. This is a short trip to put us closer to the Dry Tortugas and give one more day for the winds and waves to ease. We awoke early to finish …
5/20/21 Captain’s Comments: The weather remains “sporty.” A window may open up in a few days; in the meanwhile, we’re exploring the marina and doing chores. Even went for a dip in the pool! 5/21/21: Mojitos and Mallory Square Destination today is back to Key …