May 1, 2023 We're Off the Dock

May 1, 2024 Port 32 to Cumberland Island 6.8 hours 54 miles

Off the dock and heading north by 7:20AM. Always appreciate the first rate accommodations at Port 32 and this visit was no exception. Made the trip through this area plenty of times now so nothing real unusual as far as sightings. Caught a very favorable current heading out the St. Johns River.

Ortega River Bridge opens for our departure

Leaving Jacksonville behind

Expected the current to turn against us entering Sisters Creek but it remained favorable almost all the way to Fernandina Beach. Passed a father and son sailing what looked like a homemade skiff and enjoying time together. Picturesque, and peaceful. We idled it down to no wake to help maintain the tranquility as we passed. Had a few dolphin sightings and a few charged toward the boat, but none seemed interested enough to play in our wake. Martha spotted a couple of stingrays jumping straight up out of the water, but they were too quick to get a photo. Fantastic first day back traveling on the boat with sunshine all day, temperatures in the mid 80's and a delightful sea breeze providing some cooling relief.

Typical ICW scenery between Jax and Fernandina

Uncomplicated life - a boat, a sail and some wind

Stopped in Fernandina at Port Consolidated for diesel. Rough looking dock and shack but they always have the best price on the east coast - just $3.45/gal "all in" today. We like that they service the shrimping boats so always have fresh Valvtect fuel. Took on 305 gallons. Still had plenty of time left in the day so moved on to anchor off Cumberland Island. Stayed here several times before and highly recommend it. Good holding and if you have the time the island is a national park with ruins from the Carnegie family mansion, wild horses, nature trails, sandy beach, etc. Three other Looper boats at anchor here as we stalk the first timers on our NEBO app.