Day 101 – 1/11/24

Starting location: Tampa Convention Center Transient Docks, Tampa, FL

Weather: Low 50s, mid 60s, overcast to partly sunny – Thursday 1/11.

Ending location: Anchored by Mullet Key, FL

Statute miles: Approximately 32

General summary: We had stayed an extra day in Tampa to allow Tampa Bay (fairly big water) to calm down a bit after the recent storm. As a result, we only experienced minor chop on the way out. We’ve been in marinas since Apalachicola, with the exception of one rough night in Cedar Key, as there haven’t been many options for non-exposed anchorages with dinghy-able shore walks. This seems to be changing as we head South. Looking forward to being “on the hook” more often. Motored Southwest from Tampa and passed by St. Petersburg to anchor on the Northeast side of the bay near the exit to the Gulf in a protected spot in center of Mullet Key. Dinghied to shore where there is a park with trails. Walked about 3 miles total. Pretty much an RV park and then short beach walk. Nice paved trail and many cyclists. Tom grilled red snapper for dinner. Yum! We were the only boat anchored overnight.

Boater information:

Watch for shallow spots even in marked channel as you approach anchorage. We experienced a section where we probably touched bottom briefly for a few feet. Had our propellor angled up and no damage. Soft mud/sand bottom.