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From the Keys we managed to visit Little Shark River which is one of the southernmost points to enter the Everglades
National Park. We tucked away just inside the entrance to the river where we enjoyed a myriad of nesting birds, wading birds
and even a few alligators. It was eerie at night as there were no lights and only the sounds of the wildlife in and around
the anchorage.
A little further north was the entrance to the pass leading to Everglades City, somewhat of a outpost amidst the National
Park. We entered via Indian Key Pass, and spent a delightful evening once we found the right spot to anchor. This proved to
be a popular spot and we had several boats joining us in the area. The water shallowed quickly near the anchorage area and
one poor fellow ran aground the next morning as we departed, trying to beat some weather that would be approaching.
We had looked forward to visitng Marco Island, but as we stucked our nose outside of Indian Key we were faced with some
of the worst conditions possible. The 5 to 10 knots forecasted quickly turned into 20 knots with higher wind gusts, it poured
down rain and the beam seas were made worse due to the shallow shoal passage up the coast. Marco couldn't have come any sooner.
We were drenched despite our full enclosure, Maggie needed to go ashore so we gladly accepted a slip at the Marco River Marina
for the night.
The cold front continued pounding the area and we were in search of better conditions. Early the next morning we noticed
a slight change, gathered our charts and set a course for Naples. The rain stopped, and the sun appeared.
Naples is a beautiful town. As you enter the passage from the Gulf both sides of the waterway are lined with spectacular
homes, most with expensive boats lying at private docks. It was a refreshing site and even more so, Peggy on Attitude managed
to secure slips for both of us at the Naples Boat Club.
This is not just any boat club, but one of the finest marinas visited. The restrooms were like something out of a designer
showcase, there was a heated pool, and the 100' yachts in the neighboring slips were not too shabby either.
St. Patties Day In Naples
The residents of Naples take St. Patrick's Day serious! It seemed that everyone in town was involved, either as an active
participant in the parade or as a spectator. The weather cooperated and everyone turned out for what has to be one of the
best parades we've attended.
The retirement community in Naples has formed every conceivable type of organization to participate in the parade. There
were the retired firefighters from New York, retired State Police from Massachusetts, various kazoo bands, the Red Hat Ladies
and a fine contingency of musical groups, including fife and drum corps.
We had an enjoyable time visiting with the local residents as we watched the two hour parade, and even went a little
crazy with the camera. Here are a few shots to wet your appetite, but there are plenty more where these came from.
Let's Go To Ft Myer's
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