Key West 2000

We have been taking the boat (see Boat) to Florida the last three years. In 1998 and 2000 we went to Key West. The first time Nathaniel came along while Casey went to Chicago to be with the family. In 2000, Casey came with us too, mainly because her friend was going to join us for five days. The weather was not as good as 1998. We sailed quite a bit, but we could not snorkel on the reef because the water was too rough (see the Key West 98 page for that). It was quite windy and a little cool, but we managed to have a great time anyway, especially after our friends arrived.

We had great seafood, enjoyed some nice meals on the boat, and generally relaxed in the climate which, while cool, was still 45° F warmer than Virginia.

	We towed the boat down to Key West and docked it at the Navy Marina at NAS Boca Chica again. They closed their dinghy dock so they would have room for us. This is a great place. Luckily, the MacGregor draws no more water than a dinghy, so we fit in fine.
	Everyone found time to relax and read. Here Casey reposes on the bow while Nathaniel is cozy in the bow.
	The marina dogs came to get acquainted. This one kept trying to come aboard and Nathaniel informs me he finally made it, but was escorted off in short order. The kids liked petting the dogs, especially this very friendly guy.
	There was quite a bit of sun so we took advantage of the nice little beach at the marina.
	We went of a sail on one of the first days we were there. It was a great trip out, but began to pick up a little on the way back, so we chickened out, lowered the sails, and powered back in. As usual, under power was a bit wet when going into the wind and waves. As you can see, we became quite soggy.
	Our friends joined us the day after Christmas. We had some nice sails while they were there. Here are most of of us in the cockpit on the typical blustery day we experienced this year. We are returning from the reef, where we discovered the surf was too much for us to snorkel. That was a major disappointment, since we had learned in 98 that the West Sambo reef is beautiful and full of exotic fish. This reef is only six miles due South of the marina. It has permanent moorings for boats to tie up to. Great place!
	Basically, this is an idyllic setting. It is a tremendous break from the Winter back home. Key West is a funky kind of place and we enjoy visiting the town and especially the restaurants. We are thinking seriously of retiring in this area.