Port St. Joe

Monday, September 26, 2016

We are moving east again, departing Panama City to cross East Bay, another large open bay.  Homes, grouped along the northern shore, become less frequent as we move further east away from major population centers.

We are starting to see some "Loopers", as we are called - boats doing the Great Loop.  This boat was heading west, but is typical of looper boats with dinghy in tow and "toys" on the decks - bicycles, kayaks, etc. 

We pass a shipyard which works on huge commercial vessels. This is a big offshore barge in dry dock.  Note the big slot at the rear where a tug boat would fit to push the barge securely in rough seas.

Boka Talks with Dolphins

Dolphins often swim alongside the boat.  Boka never tires of "talking" to them, way longer than our patience to listen to her!

East Bay narrows into a series of dredged creeks.  This modest home had botanical garden caliber landscaping in a very remote location.

Unspoiled woodlands line the banks.











We are finally tied up in Port Saint Joe.  This is a quaint, upscale beach town reminiscent of Port Aransas 20 years ago.  Two sporting goods stores are thriving while upscale clothing, interior decor and art galleries struggle to survive.

An historic lighthouse was recently moved from the nearby barrier island to this city park.

The sunset view from the park is stunning! 

Carolyn waits patiently on the sandy beach while Boka and Robert play in the clear, shallow water.

As we watch hurricane Matthew form and strengthen, the storm track predictions are so unsure at this time that we have decided to stay put a few extra days in Port St. Joe.  No need to go any further west until we are certain Matthew will not send stormy weather our way.





Friday, September 30, 2016

We are taking advantage of this friendly town while here.  This weekend is the Scallop Festival, mostly a music event featuring some local and regional talent.

Saturday, October 1, 2016
 
Dinner!  Robert's first keeper redfish from Florida waters.

I've been bugging Robert to do a "guy post" - boat stuff and such.  He finally relented, so his post will follow.