Today’s journey will take us 162 miles across the Atlantic from Florida to South Carolina. We are choosing to bypass Georgia , known for its long winding waterways (3 miles east or west to 1 mile north).
Before we enter the Atlantic, we will see St. Augustine one more time, this time from the water. A totally different perspective.
We go through the inlet and enter the Atlantic Ocean. Captain Tom tells me it will be smooth water today. Well, I think he was just thinking that saying it would make me believe the water was smooth. The seas were about 4 feet, but with 9 second intervals, it was tolerable, but with 160 miles to go, its daunting too. We will travel top speed at 22 knots. The trip took us 7 1/2 hours, and I am thankful we both are not susceptible to sea sickness.
We are almost at Hilton Head, heading into Harbor Town, when we encounter their 8 foot tide rushing out. This, combined with the choppy seas, had Prime 11 stuffing her bow. Tom definitely earned his Captain status navigating these waters. It was quite challenging and a lesson to be learned – time our arrival according to the tides. We are not used to these drastic tide changes, but it has now gained our attention!
We have been to Hilton Head numerous times. Renting a bike is almost a given thing to do, and, as we have no car, it is a certainty for us. Sea Pines Plantation has wonderful bike paths, probably the best that I have ever encountered.
Harbour Town marina is great. There is shopping, restaurants, and a pool all within walking distance. The prices are high, but that’s to be expected when you are on a vacation island.
We did have a surprise visitor one day. In all the years boating, we have seen many different creatures in marinas. We have seen manatees, dolphins, snakes, jellyfish, and sharks to name a few. This, though, was a first for us…and off our swim deck!
Alligators generally do not inhabit salt water. It is said sometimes they enter salt water when they are sick or to remove parasites from their skin. I don’t know what his or her story was, but I do know I am going to watch my step onto the swim platform from now on.
We spent longer than we had planned in Hilton Head, 5 nights. As a dock in Charleston was not available until Sunday, it stretched this leg of our trip longer than desired. We will leave Hilton Head, make a one night stop in Dataw Island and then visit Charleston.
What a rough voyage heading into Hilton Head! Thankful for Captain Tom’s expertise to get you guys there safely! Enjoying following along with you on your exciting adventures!
So nice to read this comment…never sure if anyone is even reading this!
You guys are so brave to travel up the Atlantic like that. And you went so far! But the pictures are spectacular. I’m so glad you are documenting your journey this way. : )
Thanks Rae Lynn!
William, ( The Capt. and Shirley The Admiral), also hailed from Cincinnati. Been gone since 2012, now in Kansas City, MO. By way of Key West. We totally enjoy your adventures.
Thank you so much! Your comment is much appreciated!