Back to the Voyage!

David was very ready to get back in action and finish what we started, our trip along the Florida Gulf Coast, so he left November 28th. He took our spare car, loaded with more supplies and things that were "needed" (because when your not on your boat, you constantly shop for it!) He made it in record time and spent the next day doing projects,like changing the Racor Fuel Filters (not easy to do!) After his boat fix, he drove to Naples and spent the next few days with his Louisville Tennis group. It was the perfect guys trip for him, playing tennis, pickleball and boating, needless to say he had a blast! David then picked me up in Tampa and we drove back to the boat,a very long day of traveling for the both of us. We left Rugby at home with his favorite sitter to have one less thing to worry about while out at sea! Bright early on Monday morning, we headed out into the St. Michaels Bay. The tactometers were busy operating and fluctuating, showing that the engines were struggling to go above 1500 RPMs. So we anchored and called our home mechanic, Zip, for some advice. Zip and David concluded that the DIY Fuel filter change had to be the cause as it is easy to introduce air into the lines. While we were floating, a couple of AGLCA boats who passed offered advise and help. One good Samaritan offered to tie up to us and demonstrate how he bleeds his Tug's engine fuel lines. The support we get from the AGLCA members is invaluable! After 3 hours, we idled back to the marina and with great luck, were able to have a Catapillar Marine Mechanic come and diagnose the problem. We were blessed with the best case scenario! We had not been out in open water long, we were near big marine cities and we had our car! Believe me, I took advantage of the time and drove to Rosemary Beach and counted my blessings! Our family went there several times when the kids were young and it is still as beautiful now as it was 20 years ago! The mechanic was very helpful, even though, his repair was the exact thing David had tried earlier! We celebrated with a 5pm Dinner at Capt. Anderson's!Oh, that buttery shrimp was a treat indeed!