Goofport

We departed Tarpon Springs Thursday March 29th. Our destination was Gulfport, which is on Boca Ciega Bay next to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Before we left Tarpon Springs we boated around the Sponge Docks and saw sponge divers cleaning the recently picked sponges.  It was a beautiful morning and Ralph and June had a pleasant experience on open waters. We were not long before we were in the intercoastal waterway and driving the boat behind condo's and nice homes.  Our first flameout occurred not lone after we were in sheltered waters.  We had several flameouts but Denniese and I were able to get the engine running within a minute or so each time.  We arrived in Boca Ciega Bay and Gulfport just about time to serve wine.  We set the anchor and motored to the city dock and walked to a local restaurant named O'Maddeys.  We had some great pasta and Maggie enjoyed eating with us outside. We walked the little city and found an ice cream shop which not only served good ice creme but made a fresh pot of coffee for me.  Friday morning we started to raise the anchor and the engine died.  Instead of doing our flame out procedure we just decided to stay put on anchor and enjoy the day.  We dinghyed ashore and walked into town and come back on board for supper.  The wind had picked up and I let out a little more rode.  I watched a dinghy float by and tried to make the owner aware the his dinghy has come loose but was unable to raise him.  Later a good Samaritan caught up with the dinghy and brought it back but to the wrong boat.  So we watched the drama unfold but it was fun. Ralph and June depart tomorrow for TN. Tonight should be good with a nice cool breeze.  The pic is of the dock and town building at Gulfport.