Beautidul Beach Days

Before we tell you about 3 beautiful days in Vero Beach we like you to know that Kermit (our dinghy) got his picture posted in the ship's store in Stuart. Seems the photographer thought that he won “dinghy of the day” for being the most unusual at the dinghy dock.

Kermit, Phil and Vi

The wind finally calmed down enough for us to leave Stuart on Friday morning. We had perfect sailing weather almost all the way to Vero Beach. Phil thoroughly enjoyed being on the water again after 6 days on a mooring ball.

We had heard a lot about Vero Beach...like how it's jokingly called “Velcro Beach” because lots of folks go there for a few days and stay forever. After spending just 4 days there, we understand why. The city marina is in a quiet area surrounded by massive old trees full of songbirds and all sorts of fauna.

Free bus service takes you anywhere you need to go in the city...if you've got time to ride it. Of course, when you're cruising, time is all you have. And the bus stops directly in front of the captain's lounge at the marina.

Saturday was a busy, enjoyable day. We rode our bikes to the beach which is only 10 minutes from the marina. The sun was hot but the cool ocean breeze made it perfect beach weather. Just before lunch we noticed a group of young college kids on the broadwalk. They appeared to be practicing for something so we walked over to check it out. Imagine our surprise when we realized that they were a Christian a cappella group, Something Borrowed Something Blue, from Duke University. They were on spring break doing volunteer work and entertaining with their music on the beach. Delightful young people and very talented.

When it got to hot to stay on the beach we rode over to a hugh park where they were having an art festival. Didn't stay there long because it was too hot and crowded. When we got back to the marina we went into the captain's lounge and watch the semi-finals of the ACC tournament.

Sunday was a down day because it rained all morning and was threatening all afternoon. So we spent a quiet day reading and working on the computer. On Monday the sun was out again so we knew it was another good beach day but Phil had to bail all the rain water out of Kermit before we could go ashore. And yes, that's a mullet that was swimming around in the bottom. Apparently, it had jumped in the boat during the night but couldn't jump back out.

The only fish Phil's caught since we left home.

Tuesday was our last day so off to the beach we went. We couldn't stay all day because we had to get ready to leave early Wednesday morning. Yes, it truly is “Velcro Beach” at least during the winter and spring. Not sure we'd like it in hot, humid summer.

It was spring break so there was plenty of "eye candy" for Phil.

And maybe a little for me too!

Off to our next adventure.