Drift Away: August 2016

Sunday, August 14, 2016

Boating on Lake Kerr

Yesterday was another boating day here in Florida, this time on Julie's and Jess' party barge on Lake Kerr. We were joined by their daughter Seana, and friends Tammy and Adam.

Seana and dog.

Pamela, having a tough time relaxing.

The water was beautiful!

This is how you handle Florida heat.

1957 Crestliner. All Aluminum.

Airboats don't need anchors. They simply fly up on land.

And what better way to end the day than a tow home.

Saturday, August 13, 2016

Boating on Lake George, Florida

Lake George is accessible by the ICW. Simply go to the St. John's River, head towards Jacksonville, and keep on going 'til morning.

The boat launch in Astor.

Where we had great cheeseburgers for dinner!

Nope. I don't know how they turn around in there.

A fine repurposing of an old sportscar.

Yes, it is that flat and featureless.

But perfect for airboats!

Ospreys.

Death wish...

Cormorant.

Oops.

Drift Away Specs

Drift Away is a 1980 Cheoy Lee 46' LRC (long range cruiser). She has twin 120 HP Ford Lehman diesels, 15 kw and 7.5 kw generators, and carries 800 gallons of fuel and 400 gallons of water. She cruises at 8 knots and has a top speed of 9.5 knots, plenty fast enough for this old sailor.

She is somewhat unique in that the inside helm staion is on the main level, along with the galley and saloon. There is also a helm on the flybridge. The lower level has three staterooms, each with a full head, plus the engine room.

Drift Away sat on the hard for many years before we bought it from an estate. She has suffered considerably from neglect, but we are amazed at all the things that work, like the two Ford Lehmans, and the Naiad stabilizers. There was and is much work to do, but we will return her to ship shape condition. Eventually. As long as it doesn't interfere with having fun.