Clearwater, FL. – Sarasota, FL - November 13, 2008

We went to Frenchy’s for dinner last night with Kay and Gene. It was celebratory meal of sorts for having survived the gulf crossing. You wouldn’t think a restaurant by that name would specialize in seafood, but they do. We all had grouper sandwiches that were excellent.

We slept in today. We had been undecided whether to stay in Clearwater another day or continue on towards Burnt Store Marina. But, since we are both anxious to get back, we decided to leave today. However, our start was at a much more reasonable hour, 8:30.

The forecast had been for scattered showers today, but it turned out to be a beautiful, sunny day. We also had a very smooth ride for the first part of the day. We were traveling south, into a southerly wind. A very calm, breezy trip.

We were back out in the gulf for the first part of today rather than taking the ICW. We saved about 15 miles by doing that as well as not having to slow down for the numerous no wake zones. After crossing Tampa Bay we got back into the ICW. The winds picked up just as we were getting out of Tampa Bay. We’re glad we were in more protected waters.

We anchored at 3:30 in Roberts Bay near Sarasota. 56.8 miles today. The picture is of our new burgee, indicating we have completed the loop.