Hello from the Fabulous Florida Keys

[akkfl1]

Greetings to all. Am new to the site. Alas, I live aboard a stink pot, although I began boating life a sailor as a kid. My first job was teaching sailing...but when I decided to move aboard 6 years ago, I had an aging Lab who figured into the equation, so this was her boat. I really don't regret the decision, and get my sailing "fixes" with my blow boat friends...so I'll stop apologizing.

This is a terrific site, and I look forward to participating.

[speedoo]

Welcome It is a fabulous site, and I hope you find it as helpful as I have.

Love the Keys. I envy you.

[Robert Ward]

I have a 26X macgergor and I plan on going your way for long. I was homeport out Mayport for 4 yrs and live in Orlanda for 3. Now I,m retired I,m working my way back. but I want to check out the Keys or just sail around the us island. Robert Ward.

[rickquann]

I have family in the Keys, a brother in Tavernier (25 years) and my Mom lives in Islamorada (40 years) My sister grew up there. I also have good friends who live in Marathon aboard a 48’ Island Trader. Love the Keys … you’re in the best water of the lower 48!

[akkfl1]

Thanks, Speedo. I love the Keys, too, although Islamorada's been "discovered" and there are a lot of changes happenening to our sleepy community...still can't think of a better place to live, though.
Amy

[akkfl1]

Hi, Robert. The Keys are great for sailing and you can't beat the laid back lifestyle, and I know a lot of liveaboards who are doing the same thing...working their way through. You'd probably love it here.
Amy

[akkfl1]

Love the Keys, too - been here 28 years. - although I don't like the changes. I agree with you about the water. I grew up sailing on the Chesapeake, but the water of the Keys and the Bahamas have always had a special allure for me.
Amy

[rickquann]

Amy, I agree with you about the changes. The first time I went to the Keys back in '69, there was hardly any traffic, no crowds, drive thru bars , conch cottages and way laid back attitude. Now its condos and an endless stream of traffic. Still, it's the best place in the US for sailing, snorkeling, diving and fishing.
If you've been there long term, you probably know where my brothers business is; Island Custom Embroidery, south of Whale Harbor, next door to the Whistle Stop.
Mom lives at Coral Harbour Club.
I envy you guys, another few years of collage titution and I too might be living aboard in your neighborhood.
[IMG]aolemb://A2C64F3B-EA30-40ED-864C-2C152AB6D9CF/Untitled.jpg[/IMG]

[rickquann]

Oops ... I forgot that you cannot cut and paste pictures here Heres a shot of the Coral Harbour Club

[akkfl1]

Lovely photo. I've known your brother, Tim, for a long time - since he first opened his business on Plantation Key, I think it was? I will stop in to tell him we chatted next time I'm at Whistle Stop. Small world!
Amy

[rickquann]

Small world indeed! Yes, his original store was on Plantation, a free standing building on the right (when driving southbound)
Good deal Amy, cheers !

[DWT]

Welcome to the site. I have lived in the Key's for 36 years and it is home for me and the wife. Were down in the Lower Keys. The Keys have great weather and a wonderful place for boating and sail.
We are 5 1/2 months into a 1 month overhaul...... looking forward to get back out on the water.

David
69 Morgan 30'
CarolAnn

[mickmul]

Hi Amy and welcome - travelled the Keys 18 years ago, and liked Islamorada the best. You'll enjoy this forum! Fair winds!

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha Amy,
Welcome aboard from me living near the Southernmost town in the U. S.. Good to have you here on the forum and I hope you enjoy it.
Kind Regards,
JohnL

[akkfl1]

Thanks, John. Appreciate the welcome!
Amy