A Great Loop Update from Sanford, Florida

If you’ve been following along on our Great Loop adventure, you know one thing for sure—our timeline has been… flexible. Between hurricanes, extended stays in places we loved a little too much (looking at you, Florida Keys), and some strategic weather dodging, our journey has taken a few unexpected turns. And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.

Right now, we’re tied up at the Downtown Sanford Marina along the St. Johns River just north of Orlando. It’s January, the engines are enjoying a rare freshwater break, and while much of the East Coast is shivering, we’re golfing in the sunshine and cruising brick-lined streets on e-bikes. Not a bad place to pause the Loop for a couple of months.

A Quick Loop Recap (For New Crew Members)

We kicked off this Loop adventure back in 2022, ran headfirst into hurricane delays, then spent last year hugging Florida’s coast and soaking up three glorious months in the Keys. From there, we worked our way north to Jacksonville, laid low during hurricane season (ironically a quiet one), and knocked out some boat projects along the way.

When December brought colder temps up north, we pivoted. Instead of continuing up the coast, we turned south—up the St. Johns River—which somehow runs north to south—and landed in Sanford. Freshwater cruising, milder temps, and a town with way more personality than we expected made this detour an easy decision.

Sanford: Small Town, Big Personality

Sanford feels like a college town… without the college. Cobblestone streets, brick buildings, an active riverwalk, and more bars and restaurants than you’d expect packed into a very walkable downtown. It’s safe, diverse, and buzzing with something happening almost every day—parades, festivals, car shows, live music, you name it.

One highlight was the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, especially their seasonal Asian Lantern Festival. At night, the zoo transforms with glowing lanterns, moving light displays, and just enough whimsy to make it feel magical without being overwhelming.

Favorite Downtown Stops

• Buster’s Bistro
  German-inspired comfort food, excellent Reubens and French dips, a dog-friendly patio, and a great beer list.
• Wop’s Hops Brewing Company
  A cozy local brewery with a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for an easy afternoon stop.
• Ellen’s Wine Room
  Right across the street, with comfort food, wine flights, and locals who love sharing insider tips about town.

Daytona: Fast Cars, Flat Beaches, and a Surprise Lake

Having a rental car gave us the freedom to explore beyond e-bike range, so we headed east to Daytona International Speedway. The VIP tour was an absolute highlight—even if you’re not a hardcore race fan.

Standing at field level, the steeply banked turns rise nearly four stories high. We toured the fan zone, visited the museum packed with racing history, stood where the spotters work, and learned there’s even a four-acre bass-filled lake hidden inside the track.

We also came back during the lead-up to the Rolex 24 at Daytona, a 24-hour endurance race that weaves through the infield road course and back onto the oval.

Daytona Area Stops

• Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
  Oceanfront and convenient to both the Speedway and nearby golf courses.
• Grand Reserve Golf Club
  A public course with a surprisingly strong country-club social scene and live music.
• ONE DAYTONA
  A walkable retail and dining district across from the Speedway, including PF Chang’s and plenty of people-watching.

Dinghy Day Turns Into Gator Day

One afternoon, we took the dinghy out to scout another marina that offers diesel fuel—important since we’ll need to top off before heading back north. What started as a peaceful cruise quickly turned into a full Florida moment when we passed a bright yellow “Gator Crossing” sign… and then saw the gator.

This one was massive—easily the size of our 15-foot dinghy. Add in a few more alligator sightings near the docks and one particularly focused gator tracking us on the return trip, and we officially checked “close wildlife encounter” off the list.

Boat Projects, Golf Rounds, and Local Finds

While staying put, we’ve also tackled a few boat projects—resealing the shower, upgrading bow chairs, and refreshing our upholstery.

• Three Lions Upholstery
  Excellent craftsmanship, professional service, and seats that look brand new.

More local favorites include Swamp House Grill right on the river and Blend & Barrel, a classy bourbon and cigar bar with a beautiful interior (and very effective smoke).

Between car shows, parades, festivals, and live music, Sanford has yet to deliver a quiet weekend.

What’s Next on the Loop

With calm weather ahead, we’re planning a short cruise back up the river to top off diesel, run the engines, and anchor out for a couple of nights. We’ve also added a DJI drone to the onboard toolkit, so aerial footage is officially coming soon—assuming it doesn’t end up making friends with the river.

Follow Along

If you’re listening to the podcast, be sure to subscribe to our website where we’re building an interactive map of our route, including marinas, anchorages, golf courses, restaurants, and side trips. You’ll also find photos and videos that bring each stop to life.

Have questions about Sanford, the St. Johns River, or any of the stops along the way? Reach out—we’re always happy to share what we’ve learned.

St. Johns River, Sanford, and the Joy of Letting the Loop Wander

Hello friends — Chris and Deb checking in from SeaDan, where one week somehow managed to hold a boatyard victory lap, a jungle river adventure, and a brand-new place that already feels like home.

When we last checked in, SeaDan was on the hard in Jacksonville, getting some much-needed love after stress fractures showed up on the swim platform. A huge shout-out to Brooks and Thad at Huckins Yacht Corporation on the St. Johns River. Their craftsmanship, fiberglass work, and attention to detail were outstanding. Huckins has been around a long time, and it shows — not just in their skills, but in the pride they take in keeping boats right.

Jacksonville: Food, Fairways, and Football

Because the boat stayed put from August through early December, we had time to really settle into Jacksonville — and it surprised us in all the best ways.

We found favorites downtown like River & Post (and its St. Augustine sibling, Fort & Post), and spent a lot of time in Avondale, a historic neighborhood full of boutique shops, cobblestone streets, big Southern homes, and great food. Bluefish Restaurant, European Street Café, and even a hookah bar called Casbah Café made the rotation. No hookah for us, but excellent food and atmosphere.

Golf became a theme, too. TPC Sawgrass was the bucket-list highlight, but we also loved Bent Creek Golf Course and the World Golf Village courses — especially Slammer & Squire. There’s just something special about playing well-kept courses surrounded by history while moving slowly through the Loop.

And yes — we even caught a Jacksonville Jaguars game. We’re still Bengals fans at heart, but grabbing end-zone seats, soaking up a Duval crowd, and watching a jet flyover made for a memorable Sunday.

Fixing the Plane (Literally)

One lingering mystery from earlier in the trip was SeaDan’s reluctance to get up on plane. At Huckins, we tackled it head-on: new air filters, prop speed on all the running gear, and a thorough once-over. The result? Back on plane at 23–24 knots like she was meant to be. Problem solved — and a huge relief.

The Itch to Move Again

After Thanksgiving back home and a delayed but wonderful trip to Punta Cana with friends, we returned to Jacksonville in early December planning to wait until January before heading south on the St. Johns River.

But then we looked at the weather.

Clear forecasts. Calm winds. And that familiar Loop itch.

So we untied the lines on December 11 and pointed SeaDan inland.

The St. Johns River: Our Favorite Side Trip Yet

This river surprised us completely. Deep, wide, calm, and winding through swamps and old Florida landscapes, the St. Johns River felt wild and peaceful all at once. We meandered past manatees, spotted alligators, anchored under stars, and crossed Lake George on glass-smooth water with the channel markers guiding us straight through.

We stayed at a free dock near Palatka, anchored near Morrison Island, and then dropped the hook at Blue Spring State Park — a place that honestly felt like stepping into Jurassic Park. Jungle-thick shoreline. Absolute stillness. Manatees everywhere. While FaceTiming Nick, we spotted our first alligator lounging on the bank. Mission accomplished.

Blue Spring is also accessible by land, with boardwalks and observation decks overlooking crystal-clear, warm spring water that draws manatees all winter. It’s protected this time of year, and for good reason — there are so many manatees it’s hard to believe until you see it.

Sanford: A Place We Didn’t Expect to Love (But Do)

Our final leg brought us to Sanford Municipal Marina, just ahead of a strong north wind that arrived two hours after we tied up. Perfect timing.

From the moment we arrived, we knew Sanford, Florida was special. Luke and Cody met us at the dock, helped us settle in, and made us feel instantly welcome. Neighbors introduced themselves. Stories started flowing. One of those marinas where community shows up fast.

Sanford itself is a gem — historic brick buildings, cobblestone streets, breweries, theaters, antique shops, and a 17-mile paved riverwalk looping around Lake Monroe. We took the e-bikes to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens one day (small, charming, and heavy on reptiles — as it should be), then followed that with beers at Deviant Wolfe Brewing and Celery City Craft, housed in an old fire station and jail.

We also found Hollerbach’s German Restaurant — excellent Reubens, a full German market and bakery, and plenty of reasons to return.

A Little Pause Before the Next Chapter

SeaDan will stay here through January and February while we head home for the holidays — chasing our grandson Leon, maybe sneaking in some skiing, and enjoying time with family. Then it’s back south in early January to continue exploring the St. Johns River before turning north up the East Coast.

That’s the magic of the Loop. Plans exist — but the best moments come from listening to the weather, following curiosity, and letting the journey bend a little.

Thanks for following along. If you’re anywhere near the St. Johns, the East Coast, or the Great Lakes next year, let’s reconnect — dockside drink or round of golf encouraged.

Until next time,
Fair winds,
Chris & Deb

Hello friends — it’s Chris and Deb checking in from Cincinnati, with a story that loops back to where this whole adventure began. On Columbus Day, we hopped in the car and headed down to Ripley, Ohio — to the little river camp on the Ohio River where our Great Loop dream first took shape more than 30 years ago.

We had that camp for 11 years, raising the kids on weekends full of tubing, water-skiing, fishing, and campfires. It’s hardly changed — the same quiet docks, the same A-frame next door, even the same old boat ramp where I once broke my ankle. Standing there again, it hit us how this whole loop really started as a family weekend on the river.

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Storms, Cars, and Classic Cadillacs

When we last left off, we were in St. Augustine, dodging thunderstorms and renting a car to explore. That detour led us to the Classic Car Museum, a time capsule of American design — from 1950s Bel Airs and pink-finned Cadillacs to horse-drawn stagecoaches.

Afterward we found ourselves at The Ice Plant, a Prohibition-style bar we’d discovered on a hop-on-hop-off tour. Great cocktails, vintage ambiance, and the perfect hideaway from the rain. Upstairs, a French fine-dining spot offered tiny portions for big prices — but it made for a memorable night before we hit the road again.

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North to Jacksonville Beach

Monday was move day — we cruised under the Bridge of Lions and made our way north to Palm Cove Marina in Jacksonville Beach. The houses along the ocean side were stunning, and the marina itself turned out to be a gem.

One unexpected highlight: meeting Jim Loudenslager, a master club-builder who’s been fitting clubs for the pros for half a century. We wandered into his shop looking for golf shoes and left with new custom sets — and a new friend.

Dinner that night was at Marker 32, a local favorite perched on the water. We grabbed two bar stools, struck up conversation with the couple beside us, and after a bottle of wine discovered the man was none other than a former pianist for Lynyrd Skynyrd — who’d also opened for the Rolling Stones. Only on the Loop do you stumble into nights like that.

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Sawgrass: A Bucket-List Swing

From Palm Cove, we followed the St. Johns River to Huckins Boatyard, a deep-water stretch where we could finally relax without worrying about shallow channels. The next morning brought a true milestone — tee times at TPC Sawgrass.

Playing the legendary 17th-hole island green has been on my list forever. Neither Deb nor I landed the green (hers kissed the wall; mine veered left), but the experience was unforgettable. The course was quiet, stripped of the tournament crowds, and we even spotted two bald eagles and a snake near the cart path.

We ended the day with dinner in the clubhouse surrounded by decades of golf history — and met a young player from Paris, Tom D. Harry Pond, practicing for the junior tournament the next day. Watching him stripe drives reminded us how timeless the game really is.

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On the Hard (and at Home)

C-DAN is currently on the hard at Huckins, getting her swim platform repaired after a few stress fractures from the dinghy crane. The crew’s got her in good hands, and we’ll check back next week when she’s ready to float again.

For now, we’re soaking up fall in Ohio — our favorite season — playing plenty of golf, chasing our grandson Leon, and watching the leaves change. Once the holidays wrap up, we’ll dive into the next leg of the Loop full speed ahead.

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Looking Ahead

Starting in January, we’ll be exploring the St. Johns River, one of the few rivers in North America that flows south to north. It’s lined with hidden coves, old paddle-boat docks, and (supposedly) alligators we still haven’t spotted. We’re eager to launch the dinghy and explore side trips along the way before heading up the East Coast.

We’ll post our month-by-month itinerary soon — if you’re near the coast or the Great Lakes next year, we’d love to reconnect over a dockside drink or a round of golf.

Until then, thanks for following along. From the Ohio River to Sawgrass greens, we’re reminded just how far this dream has drifted — and how close it still feels to home.

Fair winds,
Chris & Deb

Fort Pierce, FL

First up: Fort Pierce—easy vibes, friendly docks, instant boat friends. On an e‑bike run and a “dive watch battery” errand, Deb fell for a bracelet… and Chris made it happen. Romance points unlocked.
Food find: the super‑casual, super‑tasty 12A Buoy.

Learning moment #1 (a biggie!): Always wash brand‑new towels/bathing suits before they touch vinyl—rain + fresh dye turned the white captain’s chairs navy. The sun is slowly bleaching it, but… oof.

Dinghy day delivered: they zipped over to the excellent National Navy SEAL Museum (small but mighty) and then beached the dinghy at local legend Little Jim Bait & Tackle for pizza, cold drinks, and “we live here now” vibes.

PGA detour: Port St. Lucie

Because balance is important: a hot, challenging loop at the PGA Golf Club’s Wanamaker Course. Pair hydration with humility. 😅

Titusville, FL

They timed this stop perfectly—watched a rocket launch from the bow and then spent a full, kid‑in‑a‑candy‑store day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Shuttle Atlantis! Rocket Garden! Big feelings!

Marina notes: “great people, aging docks.” Also: know your shore power. When the pedestal could only deliver 208V, their onboard 50A/240V setup kept tripping. Result: generator nights, adventure days.

Bites & sips: waterfront Pier 220 and a surprise-favorite wine bar (OVino) plus a hardware‑turned‑brewery hang—then a cameo from modern tech: new friends summoned their Tesla to valet itself over. Boat people meet car people; everyone wins.

New Smyrna Beach, FL

A pretty cruise north through a wildlife‑packed canal—manatees, dolphins, spoonbills—and yes, people riding horses belly‑deep in the water. Docked near Outriggers Tiki Bar & Grill and explored vintage‑cute Flagler Avenue. Dinner on the Atlantic: views > menu, but the Zen‑moment beach photo was 10/10.

Daytona Beach (drive‑by)

Skirted dredgers, expected chaos… got calm seas. Sometimes Sunday behaves.

Palm Coast, FL

Quick fuel‑and‑go stop with a gem just 10 minutes away: European Village, a courtyard ringed with restaurants and bars. Pasta night at Mezzaluna Pizzeria sealed the deal.

St. Augustine, FL

Home base for a few days at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, right by the Bridge of Lions. Think cobblestones, courtyards, and architecture with swagger—Flagler College, Spanish facades, and marble lions carved from the same quarry as Michelangelo’s David.
Do‑it‑all pass: two‑day hop‑on‑hop‑off with Old Town Trolley Tours.
History hit: the star‑shaped Castillo de San Marcos, built of shell‑packed coquina that shrugs off cannon fire.

Storm dodge: bikes + lightning = emergency bar stop. Approved.

Bonus bucket‑list: tee times at TPC Sawgrass—hello, island green at 17. Gulp.

See you guys next week!

Hey everyone — Chris and Deb here, coming to you from air-conditioned SeaDAN after a hot and humid Florida week! We’ve officially left Fort Lauderdale, cruised the coast, dodged bridges, anchored like rebels, and landed at one of our favorite marinas so far: Fort Pierce City Marina. Let’s catch you up.

So Long, Lauderdale

We closed out our Fort Lauderdale stay with a few final adventures. A dinghy ride up the New River gave us urban jungle vibes — skyscrapers, car noise, boat traffic — a jarring contrast after weeks in the Keys. It was neat, but a little too big-city for us.

That said, we did enjoy a classic bar crawl that landed us at the famous Elbo Room, a legendary beach bar since 1938, packed with people and prime for people watching. From there, we explored The Wharf and the Riverwalk area, took a spin past the giant Hard Rock Guitar Hotel, and even squeezed in a virtual nine holes at Pebble Beach thanks to a golf simulator we found.

We also flew home for a few days, then returned and got SeaDAN ready for the next leg of the journey.

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Cruising the Atlantic & Anchoring Like Rebels

On July 31, we left Fort Lauderdale and made a key decision: skip the 21 drawbridges between there and West Palm by heading out into the Atlantic. It was a perfect day — calm, clear, and stunning. We cruised up the coast at a comfortable 9 knots, took in the view, and saved on diesel.

We stopped to snorkel at Breakers Reef, grabbed our first-ever mooring ball (a new skill unlocked!), and then made our way into the Lake Worth Inlet and around the famed Peanut Island, where boats and Sea-Doos lined the beaches.

Looking to avoid the party zone, we headed further north and anchored in North Lake Worth, near Palm Beach Gardens and Riviera. Turns out the mooring field there had been removed — likely due to abandoned boats — but a local marina employee assured us we were fine to anchor for one night. Rebel loopers? Maybe just a little.

Bridge Drama & Boater Etiquette

The next morning we continued up the Intracoastal Waterway toward Fort Pierce. Cue the bridge drama.

The first bridge opened at 9:15, and we heard a Sea Tow boat request an early lift. If we missed it, we’d be stuck waiting 45 more minutes — so we gunned it. Captain Chris got the call from the bridge operator: “You gotta hustle!” Meanwhile, marina workers were yelling, “No wake zone!” Total chaos. We made it through both bridges, earned no middle fingers (success!), and cruised on.

Beyond that? Smooth sailing. We passed through Jupiter and Juno Beach, home to huge waterfront homes with putting greens and pro golfer names attached. Jupiter’s got serious golf clout — and we’re planning to play a course up there tomorrow.

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Docked at Fort Pierce

We pulled into Fort Pierce City Marina on Friday around 3 p.m. after a slow and peaceful day on the water. The staff was incredibly helpful, the floating docks are well maintained, and the whole setup is one of the best we’ve seen so far on the Loop.

We docked just in time for Friday Fest, a local street festival held the first Friday of each month. Live music, tents, food trucks, and a great welcome to town. We had dinner at Cobb’s Landing — margaritas, shrimp, and some tuna nachos that rivaled our favorites from Marker 88.

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Farmers Markets & Fancy Shrimp

Saturday morning brought us to one of Florida’s top 5 farmers markets. Local goods, friendly vendors, and even more snacks. That night, we hit Crabby’s Dockside during Oyster Fest Weekend and got a dozen royal red shrimp for $10 — buttery, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth good. A true find.

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Dinghy Cruising & Snapping Shrimp

We’ve been exploring by dinghy again, including a sunset cruise out past the Fort Pierce inlet. Stunning skies and calm waters — total magic.

And speaking of water sounds… Deb finally solved the mystery of the Rice Krispies crackling around the hull at night. It’s actually snapping shrimp, whose claws create sound bursts through cavitation. (Chris, being sans hearing aids, missed all the excitement.)

Also strange? The local fish seem to enjoy bumping into the hull. Not sure if they’re cleaning it or just showing off.

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Boat Chores & Bike Days

We’ve had a couple lazy mornings on board, checked off a few maintenance items, and today we’re heading out for a bike adventure around Historic Downtown Fort Pierce. Battery replacement, window shopping, and maybe a late lunch are all on the docket.

Tomorrow we tee off at Wanamaker Course at PGA Village, where they hosted a recent PGA event. We’ve got a 12:10 tee time and high hopes (and extra golf balls).

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We’ll check in next week with more stories, more marina recs, and probably more royal reds. Thanks for joining us as we Loop north. Hit subscribe to follow along — and let us know if you’ve been to Fort Pierce or have favorite stops on the way to St. Augustine!

— Chris & Deb
From the deck of SeaDAN

Hello again from the deck of SeaDAN! It’s been a packed and exciting week as we officially left the Keys and cruised up to Fort Lauderdale. From weather dodging to a manatee visitor, and birthday golf to a refrigerator explosion, this week had it all. Let’s dive in.

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Sandbar Days & Brewery Nights

Last Friday, we tried to head to Hens and Chickens Reef with Todd and Tammy, but conditions were way too rough. Plan B? A bustling sandbar! Around 50 boats were anchored up, and we joined the fun — chest-deep water, music from all directions, and a perfect impromptu hangout.

After drying off, we brewery-hopped to Florida Keys Brewing Co. where we enjoyed the tie-dye garden and cold IPAs. Unfortunately, a little “rental car bumper car” incident happened in the parking lot — Todd met another rental car the hard way. No one hurt, just a couple of hours sorting insurance.

Dinner that night was at the highly recommended Square Grouper — and it delivered. Great food, lucky bar seating, and a memorable meal.

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Dive Bars, Ribs, and Goodbyes

On Saturday, we hit up Whistle Stop Pub (yes, the one from Bloodline) after a quick stop at the Islamorada Brewery. We played pool, laughed late into the night, and said goodbye to Todd and Tammy the next day as they headed home.

Back on our own, we tackled laundry and groceries — big thanks to Instacart and Publix for delivering right to Founders Park Marina. Beats a $40 Uber run any day!

And shoutout to our boat neighbor, Brisket Bob, who smoked us two racks of ribs on the front of his 70-foot boat. Hands down, some of the best ribs we’ve ever had. Thank you, Bob.

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Goodbye Keys, Hello Fort Lauderdale

Monday morning, July 14, we set out early with a full tank — 400 gallons of diesel (about $1,500, ouch). Waters were glassy, storms rolled in but didn’t bring too much wind, and our only issue was a red engine warning light that cleared itself after a reset.

Things got dicey near Port Everglades Inlet where two massive cruise ships were maneuvering. We had to hover for nearly 30 minutes while the parade of ships cleared out, but once we got in, it was smooth docking — minus a minor rainstorm and some Olympic-level effort to land the boat without a stern thruster.

We’re now at Hall of Fame Marina, right next to the International Swimming Hall of Fame. Watching competitive divers from the boat has been a treat!

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Dinghy Runs, Giant Yachts & Birthday Golf

Since arriving, we’ve done a few scenic dinghy trips past jaw-dropping yachts and under tiny bridges in the Fort Lauderdale canals. One trip had us ducking under four-foot bridges like pros.

We also celebrated Deb’s birthday on the 17th in style: a round at the Fort Lauderdale Country Club (thanks to Coldstream reciprocity), a birdie on a par 3 (go Deb!), and a fantastic course with old-school charm, big trees, and wide tee boxes. It’s now our goal to chase golf courses up the Intracoastal as we move north.

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Pasta, Paddle Plans & No Bugs

We capped the week with a homemade Italian dinner — fresh pasta, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and a bottle of DAOU red wine. No bugs, perfect breeze, and front-deck stargazing made it feel like magic.

Next up?

• Dinghy ride down the New River to check out The Wharf dining district
• A beachside e-bike cruise along Fort Lauderdale Beach
• Then, it’s time to move north toward West Palm Beach

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It’s been a week of full hearts, funny moments, and one broken Corona bottle (RIP, soldier). We’re soaking it all in and loving every bit of it — especially the no-bug evenings and all the good company.

Thanks for tagging along. Hit subscribe to keep following our loop adventures, and as always, let us know if you’ve got golf course recs, dinghy routes, or favorite marinas up the coast!

— Chris & Deb
From the deck of SeaDAN

Family, First Dives, and Floating Ears

Hey Loopers — Chris and Deb here, back aboard SeaDAN and recording fresh from Founders Park Marina in Islamorada. We’re fresh off a whirlwind couple of weeks full of family, paddleboarding mishaps, and — big news — Chris is officially retired! 🎉

After wrapping up our final owner’s meeting in Louisville and enjoying the 4th of July with family (including future swimmer-in-chief, little Leon), we flew back into Fort Lauderdale, picked up a car, and returned to the Keys. But this time, we didn’t come alone.

We brought along Todd and Tammy — Chris’s brother and sister-in-law — for a week of Keys-style fun in the sun. And let us tell you, they didn’t just visit… they made memories.

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Dinghies, Sunsets, and Sea Critters

They arrived July 7th, and we wasted no time. First stop: Marker 88, our favorite sunset spot (and still the reigning tuna nacho champion). No snorkeling that night, but we made up for it the next day with a dinghy snorkel adventure. Highlights? Warm 89° water, clusters of lobster hiding in a concrete slab, and, of course, the now-legendary struggle of four adults trying to get back into a dinghy without injuring themselves. (We’re all fine. Mostly.)

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Wahoo, Mermaids, and Betsy the Lobster

We tried a new place — Wahoo’s Bar & Grill overlooking the Atlantic. Great food, great drinks, and an owner with great stories. Bonus? We were served by a self-proclaimed real-life mermaid. No complaints.

We also made another trip to Rain Barrel Village to visit Betsy, the giant lobster sculpture who now feels like an old friend. (Yes, we took more photos.)

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Key West: Putt Putt, Rum, and Tattoos

On Wednesday, we road-tripped down to Key West. On the way, we stopped at Porky’s Bayside Restaurant for cocktails and a sweaty, chaotic game of putt putt. (Spoiler: Todd won. Chris still claims everyone owes him money.)

In Key West, we parked near Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery and Sloppy Joe’s, grabbed cigars, and strolled Duval Street. The ladies even got henna tattoos — palm trees and flowers that immediately smudged. Lesson learned: follow the instructions.

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Captain Tony’s, Hogs Breath & Sloppy Joes

Nightlife was a highlight. At Captain Tony’s Saloon, we were blown away by piano player Mike Brown, who had the whole bar clapping, laughing, and singing along. Over at Hog’s Breath Saloon, we caught Harley Ray, an incredibly talented singer-songwriter with Pearl Jam vibes and Kid Rock looks.

Sloppy Joe’s? Eh. The band was… there. Let’s just say we stayed for the experience, not the music.

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Paddleboard Wipeouts & Floating Ears

Thursday brought a hilarious return to paddleboarding. Todd bravely took the first post-happy-hour plunge (and surprisingly stayed upright). Chris… not so much. The second he stepped on the board, he faceplanted between two boats — losing his glasses, hat, and both hearing aids in one splash. A frantic mask-dive later, we found everything. Miraculously, it all still works.

Deb, of course, cruised calmly and even spotted a sea turtle.

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Steakhouse Surprise & Celebrations

We celebrated all the July birthdays (and Chris’s retirement) with dinner at Kindler — a fantastic new steakhouse tucked into Three Waters Resort. Incredible food, a friendly staff, and the most hilarious diving board belly flop from Todd earlier that day. If you haven’t been there: go.

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What’s Next?

We’re heading out soon to one of our favorite snorkel spots: Hens and Chickens Reef. Wind permitting, of course. Then we’ll hit a couple local breweries and filming locations from Bloodline, including Whistle Stop Pub & Grill, before Todd and Tammy head home to Springfield.

After that? It’s time to get serious about The Loop. We’ve got a solid weather window starting Monday and plan to push through Fort Lauderdale, hop into the Intracoastal, and start making some real wake.

We’re behind the other Loopers — most are in the Great Lakes or even Canada by now — but we’re not in a hurry. We’re Looping our way.

Thanks for following along. Don’t forget to subscribe so you get updates when a new episode drops. And if you’ve got paddleboarding tips, waterproof hearing aid suggestions, or just a favorite Tiki bar we haven’t tried — drop us a note.

See you on the water!

Hi friends — it’s Chris and Deb checking back in from C-DAN! After two weeks back in Cincinnati for doctor appointments (and a few rounds of golf), we caught a flight down to Fort Lauderdale — the closest Allegiant airport — and made our way back to the boat, still docked at Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina in Islamorada.

While in Fort Lauderdale, we scoped out marinas for when Chris officially retires, and wow — marina prices ranged from $2,800 to $6,000 a month. Compare that to our $1,400 rate here in the Keys and, well, you can guess why we stayed put! It’s been windy here (10+ days straight), so hunkering down feels like the right move.

The plan? Once the weather clears and we head out again, we’ll take the Hawk Channel (the protected route between the reef and islands) and skirt around Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Eventually, we’ll tuck back into the Intracoastal Waterway where the travel is calmer. From there, we’ll keep moving north — slowly, and at our own pace — still unsure whether we’ll hit the Great Lakes this year or next.

In the meantime, we’ve made the most of our stay. With a rental car in hand, we explored Islamorada and Key Largo, and found some absolute gems:

History of Diving Museum – If you know Chris, you know museum stops are a deep dive (pun intended). We learned that hard-hat diving has been around way longer than modern scuba, and is still used commercially today. Fascinating collection of helmets, pumps, and recovered treasures.

The Original Tiki Bar – Tucked inside the Postcard Inn (formerly Post Card Inn), this iconic spot has been around since 1969 and claims to have created the Rum Runner. We tried one of those and a Painkiller while watching a feeding frenzy of nurse sharks at the adjacent marina. Yup—sharks. Hand-fed!

E-Bike Adventures – After hurricane Milton wiped out our old Subaru, we finally caved and invested in a pair of foldable Retrospec e-bikes. We tested one at a shop in Key Largo, then tracked down a second at a great little bike shop in Big Pine Key (shoutout to small-town bike dealers!). They’re lightweight, foldable, and perfect for getting around the islands.

The Fish House – Our favorite meal of the week came from this Key Largo staple. The sautéed mahi (as seen on TV!) lived up to the hype. Locals and staff have been there for decades — you can feel the authenticity.

Whistle Stop Pub & Grill – Bloodline fans, this one’s for you. We popped in to the local watering hole featured in the Netflix series, which was filmed in Islamorada. Pretty cool to match the show with real places.

Hawk’s Cay Resort – We made a quick nostalgic stop in Marathon at the resort we took our kids to 30 years ago. It’s grown a lot since then — still great for families with its dolphin experiences and big pools, but a bit too bustling for our current tastes.

Rain Barrel Village – A quirky collection of shops, studios, and galleries just up the road from the marina. We had a custom sign made (more on that later!) and, of course, took photos with Betsy — the enormous lobster sculpture out front and the second-most photographed attraction in the Keys.

Hog Heaven Sports Bar – The local late-night hangout, complete with live bands and a party crowd. We caught Airplane Mode, a cover band playing 70s and 80s hits — right up our alley. We stayed out until almost midnight (which is saying something!).

Toilet Seat Cut – Yes, it’s real. This shallow channel between two islands is lined with poles holding decorated toilet seats. RIP tributes, pirate jokes, sports teams — you name it, it’s hanging there. We took the dinghy through and snapped photos, but it’s one of those things you really have to see to believe.

Marker 88 – Another family favorite revisited. Great food, especially the tuna nachos. It’s right next to a prime snorkel spot that’s become one of our go-to afternoon activities. Parrotfish, French angelfish, and lobsters galore — all in about 10 feet of water.

Paddleboard Mishaps – We’ll leave you with a laugh. Yesterday, while Chris was working, Deb decided to paddleboard alone and took a surprise plunge (with an audience). And later, two curious barracudas followed her down the canal. No danger, just… creepy. Today, she’s back on the board — determined to stay dry.

Tonight? Cheeseburgers on the boat.

We’ll be here in the Keys a bit longer before our next travel window. Thanks for being patient while we took our quick break — we’re back to our regular updates now. Hit subscribe to get notified whenever a new post or podcast drops. And if you have a bug spray that actually works, send your suggestions our way… Deb’s got ten bottles, and not one of them is cutting it.

Catch you next week!

— Chris & Deb

After three spectacular weeks meandering through the Florida Keys, we’re back in Cincinnati for a short stretch—trading crystalline waters for gray skies and a chilly 56 degrees. The contrast couldn’t be sharper, but it’s a great chance to reflect on the adventures we packed into our time down south.

Home Base: Plantation Harbor Marina, Islamorada

Our new home away from home was Plantation Harbor Marina, nestled in Islamorada, often called the “Village of Islands.” It’s got a relaxed, local vibe that instantly felt like the right fit for this leg of our journey. The marina itself offers clean facilities, strong Wi-Fi (a godsend for updating charts and keeping in touch), and it’s just a short walk to Founders Park. The park became our go-to for morning strolls, impromptu baseball sessions, and post-snorkel swims in the Olympic-size pool. Best of all? The slip is nearly half the cost of what we paid at Marlin Bay—and still provides all the comforts we need.

Dinghy Dates & Local Bites

Marathon gave us a few parting gifts in the form of memorable meals and quirky experiences. A “dinghy date” to Lazy Days Restaurant turned into a seafood revelation. The hogfish special was so good it made us momentarily consider dropping anchor permanently. A day later, we stumbled on Porky’s Bayside BBQ, where the pulled pork was passable—but the real highlight was the sprawling, tropical-themed 18-hole mini golf course. Each hole had its own cocktail station, and the landscaping made it feel like we were golfing in a jungle paradise. Chris managed to edge out a win by a single stroke, and I’ll never hear the end of it.

Diving Disasters (And Delights)

What started as a casual dive off the dinghy at Sombrero Reef quickly devolved into a comedy of errors. Nick got in the water first, while I attempted to gear up on the dinghy. I eventually gave up and just tossed my gear in, figuring I’d sort it out once I was floating. That would’ve worked fine—if not for the current sweeping me 50 yards away before I could wrangle it all on.

When I finally got back to Nick, out of breath and looking a little blue (literally), we managed to start the dive. But soon he became tangled in the float line like a character from a sea-based slapstick. Good thing I always dive with a knife—we spent the next five minutes untangling him before realizing the float had drifted off. It’s probably waving hello to Cuba by now. And we also lost our action camera. But you know what? We laughed until we cried, and we still saw sea turtles, an octopus, barracuda, and more. It wasn’t pretty, but it was perfect in its own chaotic way.

Goodbye, Marlin Bay

Our departure from Marlin Bay Yacht Club was bittersweet. We spent our last morning sipping coffee on the dock with Leon, blowing bubbles into the warm morning air. Just as we were about to pull lines, we caught sight of an iguana perched on the rocks—then, to our astonishment, it leapt into the water and swam off like it had places to be. Iguanas can swim? Apparently.

With that sendoff, we cruised under the iconic Seven Mile Bridge and opted for the Atlantic side route. The weather played nice: smooth seas, light winds, and zero crab pots—since the season doesn’t start until October. We even gave the autopilot some wheel time, cruising at 17–18 mph with no issues. We made excellent time, and everything went smoothly… right up until I took a surprise dip in the water trying to maneuver around the dinghy after docking. At least I had the good sense to empty my pockets first.

Paddleboarding & Beach Days

We had a new toy waiting for us at Plantation Harbor: a paddleboard, shipped ahead so it would be ready on arrival. Standing on it felt like trying to balance on a greased log at first, but after a few wobbly rides, I found my sea legs. It’s now a regular part of our routine. We just need a good name for it—CDN Jr. is already taken by the dinghy.

Leon and I also spent time at the marina’s small beach area. It’s not your classic white-sand beach, more gravel and shells, but it didn’t matter. We built sandcastles, dug for shells, and watched the boats pass by while the rest of the crew snorkeled nearby.

Reefs, Sea Turtles & Theater Shows

One morning, we ventured out to Hens and Chickens Reef, a protected zone clearly marked with tall beacons and mooring buoys. You’re not allowed to anchor, which helps protect the fragile coral—something we’re always happy to support.

Nick and Rami jumped in while I stayed on the boat with Leon, and they were treated to a vibrant underwater show: schools of bright blue fish, a graceful sea turtle, and even an octopus hiding in the reef’s crevices. I took a short turn in the water once they returned, just long enough to see the reef for myself and feel the thrill of discovery.

We also spent a morning at Theater of the Sea, a marine park with dolphin shows, sea lions, parrots, and gators. Leon was fascinated by the turtles and loved the sea lion performance. It’s a charming spot that offers just enough education to feel good about the entertainment.

Dinner on the Dock

Thanks to Nick and Rami, we discovered Marker 88 Restaurant, a waterfront gem with a dinghy dock—our kind of place. The tuna nachos were massive and delicious, with perfectly seared slices stacked on a platter the size of a pizza box. We dinghied over the day after discovering it by car and enjoyed a sunset dinner with the kind of view you don’t forget. It’s firmly on our return list before we leave Islamorada.

Back to Ohio (For Now)

We wrapped up our time in the Keys with one last snorkel—this time just off the rocks outside the marina. The water was calm, and the fish were out in full force, including three smaller barracuda and schools of darting bluefish nestled in the shadows.

Now we’re back in Ohio for a short stay. On the docket: a few doctor’s appointments, a golf tournament or two, and a Memorial Day cookout with family. But it won’t be long before we’re back in the water, heading to Key Largo and around the tip of Miami to Fort Lauderdale, which will likely be our next fly-in stop. The journey continues.

Loop Status: Smooth Sailing

The boat’s holding strong—no new holes drilled, no systems failures, and everything running smoothly. We’re growing more confident with each leg of the loop, learning from the missteps and savoring the wins. Life aboard CDN is good, and we’re not taking a minute of it for granted.

Hello, everyone! Chris and Deb here, reporting live from Sea Dan. It’s been another action-packed week since our last update, and we’ve been busy exploring Boot Key Harbor, spending time at the Dolphin Research Center, and even diving into some underwater adventures. Here’s everything we’ve been up to!

Dinghy Days in Boot Key Harbor

We kicked off the week with a dinghy adventure to Boot Key Harbor, just south of Marathon. This harbor is home to an impressive number of mooring balls—about 500 boats! It was a little bittersweet, though, as many of the boats appeared abandoned, giving the area a bit of a “boat graveyard” vibe. On the brighter side, we found a fantastic spot for lunch—Dockside Bar & Grill, a dive bar with live classic rock played on a violin. We had some amazing homemade pizza rolls and watched dolphins while sipping on our Coronas. It was one of those relaxing, perfect days on the water.

After Boot Key, we made our way to Burdines Waterfront for a burger. The food was fine, but the service wasn’t exactly stellar, and the place was a bit underwhelming overall. Still, the rocking chairs on the dock and the marina’s atmosphere made it worth the stop.

Turtle Hospital and Dolphin Research Center

On a more serious note, we visited the Turtle Hospital, which is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sea turtles. Many of these turtles have been injured by boats, propellers, or other marine hazards. Some are given prosthetic limbs, while others will remain in captivity for the rest of their lives. It was heartwarming to see the efforts made to save these amazing creatures.

The next day, we visited the Dolphin Research Center, where the famous Flipper TV show was filmed. It’s a great spot, especially for kids, where you can interact with the dolphins, watch them perform tricks, and even visit the splash park. We spent a lot of time enjoying the playful dolphins, parrots, and iguanas, and we even captured some great videos of the dolphins jumping and dancing in the water.

Sombrero Reef and the Dive Flag Fiasco

The highlight of our week, though, was our trip to Sombrero Reef. This popular snorkeling and diving spot is about two and a half miles south of Marathon and is marked with buoys to guide you in. It was a little rough getting out there, but the stunning underwater world made it all worth it. We saw tons of reef fish, turtles, stingrays, and even a couple of barracuda! The visibility was incredible, and we even got down to about 38 feet without losing sight of the dinghy. This is truly a must-visit spot if you’re into diving or snorkeling.

Of course, no adventure is complete without a bit of comedy. When we were setting up to dive, we realized we forgot our dive flag! In a pinch, we tied a bright red luggage tag to the dive float to make sure we were visible to passing boats. It was a makeshift solution, but it worked—at least until we get a proper flag!

Manatee Magic at the Marina

Back at the marina, we had a magical moment when a mother manatee and her calf decided to pay us a visit. They hung around the back of the boat for over an hour, playing with our water lines, nursing, and just soaking up the fresh water dripping from the boat. It was an unforgettable experience to be that close to such incredible creatures. We even got some great photos and videos to share.

Dining and Discoveries

In addition to our adventures on the water, we’ve had some great meals at local spots. Key Fisheries, just a short walk from the marina, offered a great island vibe and served up delicious seafood. Sunset shots with orange juice and pineapple juice are the tradition here, which adds to the fun. Another highlight was the SS Rec and Galley Grill, which served the best key lime pie we’ve had so far. It was so big, we had to take some home to enjoy for breakfast the next day.

Boat Maintenance and Logistics

When we weren’t exploring, we’ve been busy keeping Sea Dan in tip-top shape. We replaced the hydraulic hoses for the davit (the crane that lifts the dinghy) and made some other small repairs. Chris even dove under the boat to fix a small leak using Water Weld, an amazing underwater repair product. We also worked on a few minor water pressure issues in the sink and shower. It’s always something with the boat, but nothing too major.

One interesting thing we’ve been thinking about is transportation on the island. After losing our Subaru to the hurricane, we’ve been getting around with Uber or walking. But now, we’re considering renting bikes or scooters to make it easier to explore the Keys. We’ve seen other boaters use them, and they seem like a great solution, especially when groceries and supplies are delivered right to the marina.

Looking Ahead: Plantation Key and Beyond

We’re excited to announce that our kids are coming down to visit on May 22nd! We’ll be heading to Plantation Key afterward, where we’ll explore more of the Keys and dive into some new adventures. We’ve got a month-long slip reservation there and can’t wait to see what the area has in store for us.

That’s all for now! We’ll keep you updated on our travels, adventures, and any more manatee sightings we get along the way. Thanks for following along!