Destin, FL

SATURDAY – MONDAY

JANUARY 24-26, 2026

Days 216-218

Saturday

We pulled up anchor and headed east to Destin—just over a 20-mile ride, and an absolute treat. Dolphins were jumping and showing off alongside us (one of my favorites ❤️), as if they knew it was a picture-perfect day. We docked at HarborWalk Marina, planning to hunker down for a couple nights while a storm rolls through. The weather was so gorgeous we even broke out the shorts again!

We strolled the HarborWalk, then discovered a delightful surprise: access to the spa showers. Who knew?! Best shower in days—luxury unlocked. Later, we enjoyed happy hour aboard Windsor Rose, filling Karen and Eddie in on our ongoing engine saga (because of course there’s always a saga). The four of us wrapped up the day with dinner at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, where a talented gal on stage with her guitar set the perfect vibe. Sunshine, music, friends—what a great day.

Sunday

Jeff kicked off the day with a mission: a several-mile walk to buy himself new running shoes (he left his at home 🙃). On the way back, he made a Publix pit stop for a few essentials. I stayed behind with plans to finish another isinglass curtain… but my sewing machine had other ideas. The tension was not cooperating, and after enough wrestling, I admitted defeat and switched gears.

By afternoon, the rain rolled in—and wow, did it pour. On and off all day, then the wind joined the party in the evening. We rocked and rolled at the dock most of the night, but thankfully still managed to sleep. Cold weather incoming!

Monday

We woke up to 34 degrees and 20-mph winds. The bay we need to cross was stacked with 3–4’ waves. Hard pass. 😳 We’d already decided to stay put today and aim for Panama City tomorrow—a 65-mile run.

Despite the chill, we bundled up for a brisk walk that actually felt pretty great. Later, we met up with Karen and Eddie and headed to McGuire’s Irish Pub for lunch—fantastic food and even better company. The afternoon victory? I finally conquered the sewing machine tension. Success! 🙌 I have enough material for one more isinglass panel, with more on order.

The evening was quiet and cold—the perfect excuse to cozy up, watch some TV, and call it an early night. Tomorrow, we move on.