Stuart!

This hulk, lying less than a mile to the east of Indiantown Marina on the Okeechobee waterway, was in the same location when we passed by during our catboat voyage in 2006. It was in much better shape then!

Once we made it to shore at Sunset Bay Marina, we saw this craft. Apparently the wind drives the large  propeller which is connected to an under water prop.  

From: Spill Dam Anchorage near Port Mayaca OWW MM 36.3
To:      Stuart, FL OWW MM 8.0

Weather:     Bright and sunny; low 65, high 80; east wind 5-12 knots NOTE: We've had east winds since leaving Indian Rocks Beach on Wednesday, March 7!

Today's start time was about 1/2 hour later than normal. There was no rush to get underway as we only had 28 miles to go. We were underway by 0800. As usual, there was a light mist over the water. We started out in calm conditions. The wind picked up to about twelve knots by late morning.

The St. Lucie Lock was flashing the red light, but it changed to green as we approached. SUNSHINE, the only boat being locked through, quickly came to a rest in her assigned position. The Lock Master worked the controls and in no time, we were lowered thirteen feet. SUNSHINE and crew are back at sea level!

As we exited the lock, there were two manatee playing around the east end of the lock. We coasted past their position, but didn't get a very good look at them.

The trip down the St. Lucie River was uneventful. At one point there were five cranes in the waterway. A new bridge is under construction.

We picked up mooring ball #23 at the Sunset Bay Marina. After rinsing the engines with fresh water, we launched the dinghy, mounted the engine and headed off to register and walk the old town. The walk lasted an hour. Back at the marina, we checked out the facilities before walking across the Federal Highway Bridge to the other side of the river. Monday is half price rib day at Park Avenue Ribs. They were great as usual!

By 1900 hours, we were back aboard. We ran the generator for two hours.