Port St Joe to Tarpon springs!

Carson

There’s a popular quote (I’m not sure who to credit) That goes something like “sailing is hours and hours of boredom interrupted by moments of sheer terror”. And that was the essence of this trip. Hours and hours of light and variable winds, glassy water and really, REALLY uneventful watches. The winds filled in from the northwest and the real sailing started. Good, consistent winds at 13-15 knots making good SOG and still, relatively boring watches. I felt the swell building, and it started making the boat pretty rolly, just enough to prevent you from working on that endless to do list, but not enough to be too uncomfortable. Just the occasional sail adjustment and snack making, it was easy going. Then on watch at 3am, the quietest part of the night, I felt the waves hit from a slightly different angle. All at once the swell hit the port quarter enough to throw Otto (the nickname for my trusty sidekick autopilot) off coarse enough to completely give up and beep for help. In the 3 seconds Before I could get to the helm, another swell crossed the stern through the wind forcing a a violent (and dreaded) auto jibe. Adrenaline poured into my veins as I tried frantically to regain control of the helm. I strained at the wheel and gazed at the compass, bringing her back to an acceptable coarse, The whole ordeal was probably less than a minute but it left my chest tight and cold and my hands shaking from excitement. Just afterward, Kayleigh pokes her head up from the hatch, concerned. “Is everything okay?” To which I nonchalantly replied “Yeah, Otto had a moment. But we’re good now” Trying to keep from making her first crossing anything but easy and comfortable After that. The rest of the time was spent lazily reading, playing chess against my computer, and thinking, while watching the vast expanse of water both ahead and behind. Pulled into tarpon springs just after dark and settled in for a much needed rest from 36 hours of only short naps Greek food at tarpon springs and,of coarse, a new sponge! Then Day sailing the next few days south, before jumping off to Key West! Comment if y’all read this write up cuz I’m curious if anyone besides me reads these. I have an extra appreciation for those that do!

Boat & Crew

Infinity

Beneteau, Oceanis

Creighton Baird

Crew

Kayleigh Calleo

First Mate

Carson

Owner