Don't cut the Corner

Sea Bean Tied Up (Blue boat)
Stuart, FL
February 9, 2024

 Friday, while not a perfect Florida day was good enough for us to pile into a boat and head off on an adventure! George and Sue are visiting and Chris and I thought it would be fun to motor to Stuart, tie-up and wander around the town for the day. 

And that is what we did! 

Looking Down Osceola Street
Stuart, FL
February 9, 2024

We boarded our trusty vessel at the Freedom Boat Club marina in Port Salerno and headed off to Stuart. It is a short, about 30 minute or so, ride and even though the day was overcast and the St Lucie River was slightly choppy, it was a good ride. We successfully tied up at the city docks and walked onshore looking for adventure.

We enjoyed the day and the city. We have been there many times before, but there is something really different arriving by boat. For one thing, parking is a lot easier. We did keep an eye on the weather, however. After lunch at the Boat House, sitting on the deck overlooking the river and the docks, we decided that the wind was beginning to kick up the waves and we should probably head back to the marina. It was a good decision. While we had planned a stop at a beach, due to the cool temperatures and wind, we decided that it would not be enjoyable to be on the beach. Fortunately, we all had coats and were able to keep warm.

Tow Boat working to help Beached Boat
St Lucie River, FL
February 9, 2024

On our return trip though, we spied a boating nightmare. Apparently, a boater unfamiliar with the waters and who did not check the charts decided to cut across the turn from the St Lucie Inlet into the St Lucie River. That is an area where there is a large sandbar and it is very close to the marked channel. It was clear that the tow boat was having a problem getting the beached boat off the sandbar. Anyway, it was not a good day for the boater. We felt bad for them, it probably ruined an otherwise good day.

Note to self--don't cut the turn unless you are sure of the waters' depth.

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

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