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This cruise proves, without a doubt, the
resiliency and flexibility of RPYC
boaters. It was originally scheduled to
be a cruise to St. Augustine, but the
lack of water in Lake O forced that plan
to be scrapped. In its place, we
decided to set the Panhandle as our
destination. Four boats departed on
October 21. The first two days went
well with stops at Venice YC and
Clearwater Beach YC. Unfortunately, on
the third day when we were scheduled to
make the crossing (160 mi.) to
Apalachicola, a strong cold front came
through creating 5-7’ seas and the
forecast was for those conditions to
last for several days. At the captains
meeting the night prior to departure, it
was decided to abort the Panhandle
destination and instead just stay at
West Coast Yacht Clubs.
We ended up staying at Clearwater for
several more nights then moved on to
Treasure Island YC, then Tampa Bay YC,
then St. Pete YC. Each of these Yacht
Clubs was wonderful. They really came
through in a pinch to accommodate us.
We had wonderful meals and had a lot of
fun. Trips to Bern’s Steak House,
Tarpon Springs, and Busch Gardens were a
few of the highlights. |