We have an AIS (automatic identification system) on Panasea which enables area boaters to identify us and our location. FLINAK (Canadian chemist named the vessel) a 30’ sloop we met at the Dismal Swamp saw our AIS and hailed us on the VHF. We met up at an anchorage and rafted for the night. Beautiful full moon that night. This picture of Panasea was taken by FLINAK as they entered the anchorage.
The majority of the ICW fixed bridges are 65’ but some are less with higher tides. Shallow or shoal areas of the ICW require high tides to transit. We identified some shoaling from GA to FL that was 8-9’ deep at high tide with tide swings up to 6-8’. Needless to say if we transited these waters at low tide we would be 2-3’ of water. Panasea is 4’ deep so transiting at low tide is not a desirable option. Since we were approaching one of these shoal areas at low tide we went outside the ICW exiting at St Simon’s Sound into the Atlantic and entering back to the ICW at St Mary’s. Going “outside” is always an easier and quicker route with a lot less traffic. We made excellent time and were able to arrive in Fernandina Beach to watch the sunset.
The next morning a giant Schnauzer named Zorro and his trainer came by with a photographer requesting to take pictures of Zorro on Panasea. We happily obliged and were advised Zorro will be in the December Orlando Eukanuba Dog Show. The owner explained he was hoping to use the pictures for Zorro’s portfolio.
The weather was warmer in Fernandina and we had planned to attend the Christmas Dog Parade. Murphy's Law intervened as we identified a starboard diesel fuel tank leak. Once we assessed the leak and pumped all the fuel from the bilge we were able to enjoy the afternoon with a bike ride.
