We had a terrific time in Stuart but it was time to get our girl Magnolia underway and see how she does out in the wild. Our plan was to cross Florida via the Lake Okeechobee. 

The Admiral does a great job at putting together a list of “events” we need to get through the following day. Things like bridge opening, locks and shallow spots.  

The Pilothouse setup and ready to go, just need to pull the sunscreen.

Finally, we are off as pictured by M/V Amici

We hardly got going when we saw these to Bald Eagles looking for something to pick up for dinner.

We entered our first lock and the doors are closed behind us.

Our first nights stop was at Indiantown Marina when this guy came by looking for a snack to come his way. We were glad we were not it!

As we began our transit across the lake we could see the smoke from what we believe was a sugar field burn off.

Our second night was spent in Clewston, FL. I watched for sometime as these two faced off on who owns the roof!

Our next night was planned to spend at anchor in the type of place we enjoy the most. We have a reputation of being “adventuresome” anchorers. We like to get off the beaten path for a night of quiet and solitude. Lolipop sounded right up our alley. As we approached the entrance it slowly revealed itself.

The channel was not wide enough to turn around so we were committed.

As we had hoped, we were rewarded with a surrounding cattle pasture.

It was really funny about how the cows just stared as us as were were getting the anchor down…

Speaking of, there was a small toast towards our anchor Vulcan on her first time down and taking responsibility for the vessels safety.

The final day of our crossing ended in Glover Bight at Cape Coral FL. A well protected anchorage with some lovely views is always very welcome.

We stayed and extra day to relax and enjoy a fine lunch ashore at Rumrunners!

Off to Charlotte Harbor tomorrow!