March 30-April 1, Key West, FL

Today was a big open water crossing from Everglades City due south about 80 miles to Key West. We made the trip in about 5 hours by traveling at 17-18 knots in 2-3 and then 3-4 foot following seas. We entered Key West harbor from the northwest, and as we entered the harbor we saw two large cruise ships berthed downtown and a beautiful new US Navy trimaran destroyer (very futuristic. Looked like a stealth ship) berthed at the Navy Shipyard.

US Destroyer (a trimaran)

Must be 50 boats at anchor outside the harbor and over 200 boats in the marinas near downtown.

Dingy dock for the boats on mooring balls outside the harbor.
Busy in Key West.

Key West is bustling. We stayed at the A&B Marina in the harbor known as the Key West Bight. A&B Marina is very well located near restaurants and shops, Duval Street and Mallory Square and is our favorite marina in Key West. Nice facilities and a helpful staff. There are no finger piers here so we tie to two front pilings and back in. Then we tie up to the stern and access the boat from the swim platform. Two spring lines keep us away from the dock at the stern. Slips are narrow and it is a little stressful maneuvering. We have fenders out to keep us away from neighboring boats. Thankfully, we get some help from the dock hands on arrival to set everything up correctly. My crew is excellent but the help was welcome today in a new docking situation. Good power. No internet.

A&B Marina pier. Lots of activity here.

Rick rented an electric car so we could all see the town and we had beautiful weather for a change.



Saw the beaches, southern most point in continental USA, Mel Fisher Museum, Truman House, Hemmingway House, Parrot preserve and lots of shops. We drove much of the whole the island to see the sights.

Sculptures in sand.
Taught by experts right here.

Giraffe

We went to Mallory Square each evening to see the sunset and street performers. Cruise ship must leave port about two hours before sunset so they do not block the view for the tourists that remain. Lots of interesting characters and costumes around. Great bars with entertainment and interesting restaurants. Crowded.



Key West is definitely an interesting place to spend a few days.