Seven days exploring Florida's Gulf Coast, December 27, 2025–January 2, 2026.
Day 1 — Riviera Dunes to Anna Maria Island, with a stop at Galati Yacht Basin. An engine fault at departure was resolved with help from our Riviera Dunes dockmates. Calm seas, a light breeze, good friends, and the first sunset set the tone.
Day 2 — Anchored outside Venice Inlet for a few perfect-weather hours, then continued to Crow's Nest Marina.
Day 3 — Venice to Boca Grande, securing at Boca Grande Marina after a beautiful run south.
Day 4 — A shore day in Boca Grande for shopping, local history, laundry, and good food as cooler weather arrived.
Day 5 — New Year's Eve at the dock. Wind and cold changed the dinghy plan, so we explored more of the island's history.
Day 6 — Rough Gulf conditions sent us back to the ICW for Boca Grande to Venice. Dolphins, bridge openings, and an air-draft lesson made the day memorable. We tucked into a tight inside slip at Crow's Nest, met the crew of Bobbin Along about 4,000 miles into their Great Loop, and had dinner with Heather and Jess.
Day 7 — Venice home to Palmetto with following seas and cool breezes. More family joined us for the final leg and a wonderful homecoming.
Operational note: air draft includes antennas and all other raised equipment.
