Monday & Tuesday February 23-24, 2026
MONDAY
Well… the wind arrived last night like it had something to prove! It howled through the rigging and guy wires of the surrounding sailboats, creating an eerie siren song that echoed across the marina. Even tucked safely inside this very protected basin, the wave action had us rocking more than expected. The wind blew hard all Sunday night, carried straight through the entire day Monday, and kept right on going into the night again. We were very thankful we decided to stay put!
Since we weren’t going anywhere, it turned into another isinglass workday. Jeff measured and cut while I manned the sewing duties — a true assembly line afloat. We’re getting closer, but wow… I cannot wait to be finished with this project! Between the wind and the work, I never even stepped off the boat all day. A full-on boatbound kind of Monday.
TUESDAY
We woke up to a welcome change — less wind! Finally! The morning felt calmer, lighter, and much more inviting. We finished up another window (progress!) and after getting cleaned up, we hopped on the shuttle back into Key West.
First stop: a quick prescription run. After that, we made our way to Sunset Pier, grabbed a couple of stools and drinks, and settled in. The view here never disappoints — endless water, boats drifting by, and that unmistakable Key West energy. The sunshine felt especially good after the chilly front that blew through; temperatures had dropped nearly 20 degrees over the last few days, and we were more than ready to thaw out.
Once our drinks were finished, we wandered over to Mallory Square to check out the nightly performers. Only one act was going, but we watched for a bit before claiming our sunset spot — because missing a Key West sunset simply isn’t an option. And once again, it delivered. That glowing orange ball slowly sank straight into the ocean, reminding us exactly why this place is so loved. Absolutely breathtaking.
As soon as the sun disappeared, the temperature dropped again — nature’s cue that it was time for dinner. We headed to an Italian restaurant we’d been told not to miss, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. The place buzzed with energy, every table full, and the food was outstanding.
I do need to mention, though… Jeff has really enjoyed being here these last several days. We’ve had the Key West Airport on one side of us and the Key West Naval Air Station on the other! The F-18s have put on more than their fair share of practice shows roaring overhead. I’m pretty sure he’ll miss that part the most. 😉
Our last night in Key West felt just right — good food, a perfect sunset, and that bittersweet feeling of wrapping up a special stop.
Tomorrow, we turn north and begin making our way up the East Coast.
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