Most Memorable Boating Experiences

After nearly 25 years, we said goodbye to Mai Thai. It's truly the end of an era.

We're grateful to all the family and friends who visited us along the way, braved the seas (and our cooking), and helped fill Mai Thai with laughter, chaos, and some pretty epic tales.

Mai Thai at Shellmound, TN River (Lake Nickajack)

There were countless unforgettable moments. These are some of the top ones - shared in no particular order:

1. Salt Spray and Rough Seas – Cruising North at Cape Canaveral, Florida

We picked up Mai Thai in early March 2001. After prepping and provisioning, we departed Fort Lauderdale with a seasoned captain aboard. By day two, we were on our own - completely green and  learning on the fly as we navigated a bigger boat through unfamiliar Southern waters. 

Off Cape Canaveral, things got real. The seas kicked up fast, with waves hammering the hull and salt spray blasting all the way to the flybridge, where it dried into a gritty white crust. We endured nearly two hours of pounding swells and nerves-on-edge steering before finally ducking into Ponce Inlet, in the protected calm of the  Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). It was wild, dramatic, and marked the true beginning of our great adventure.

You can read more about that trip here. 

2. Coast Guard Boarding in Georgia

Cruising through Georgia in March felt like we had the entire ICW to ourselves—until a lonely Coast Guard boat pulled us over for some company (and an inspection). Fortunately, we passed inspection—no contraband, no trouble. Without charts for the ICW, we were puzzled by a range marker until the Coast Guard circled back and kindly helped us out. Lesson learned!

3. Rocking and Rolling at Jekyll Island, Georgia

We stayed at the beautiful Jekyll Harbor Marina one summer. One calm, sunny day, we took friends out for a cruise. Feeling relaxed (and a little overconfident), we didn’t secure anything below deck. Bad call. Crossing Jekyll Sound, beaming seas had Mai Thai rocking—books, the TV, and a bottle of J&B went flying! Minutes later, all was calm. No injuries, no broken glass. Just a lot of laughing and a few bruised egos.

Shrimp boat near Jekyll, Georgia

4. Fuel Dock Drama – Charleston, South Carolina

After fueling up at Ashley Marina, the dockhand gave us a cheerful wave and let go of our lines... just as a swift current grabbed hold of Mai Thai and sent her hurtling backward toward a concrete bridge piling. With no time to spare, we gunned the throttle and narrowly avoided disaster. One of those adrenaline-filled moments that sticks with you forever.

5. Meltdown in the Capital - Washington, D.C.

We pulled into James Creek Marina and plugged in... and promptly fried every appliance onboard. No A/C. No fridge. Just sweat. Lots of sweat. Naturally, D.C. was in the middle of a brutal August heat wave. Thankfully, an electrician came to the rescue the next day. Bonus: we met our dock neighbor - a young guy living aboard his sailboat (despite not knowing how to sail!)  He worked for a senator and graciously offered us a private tour of the U.S. Capitol. Totally unexpected, totally unforgettable.

Thanks to boating neighbor Eric, we got a private tour

6. Solomons, Maryland - Crabs, Chestnuts, & a World Forever Changed

After D.C. we cruised to Solomons, where Town Center Marina welcomed us with potlucks, movie nights and a deep sense of camaraderie. It was here, on a quiet September morning that we learned of the 9/11 attacks. Like so many, we stood in shock, eyes glued to the news, struggling to process the  world-shifting events unfolding before us. That day changed everything - and we are grateful to be surrounded by a kind, supportive community to help us make sense of it all.

Life went on quietly. We were introduced to a crab house and ate more blue crabs than we thought possible - absolutely delicious! Every time our guest tried to fish, they caught crabs instead. And one unexpected delight: we discovered wild chestnut trees nearby and picked them fresh from the source - simple pleasures, shared in good company, during a time the world will never forget.

American chestnuts

7. Bumped in Wrightsville Beach, N.Carolina

Heading south for the winter, we anchored at a packed Wrightsville Beach, near the Masonboro Inlet. Late in the evening, a Canadian sailboat squeezed in and dropped anchor a bit too close for comfort. We were wary, but respectful—especially of fellow sailors who'd come a long way. The next morning—BANG!—they hit us. Thankfully, there was no damage—just a tough lesson for the Canadian crew on anchor scope and the power of tidal currents. One of many anchoring dramas that made cruising interesting.

Snowbirds migrating south in October

Mai Thai docked at the other Washington (N.C.)

8. Christmas Boat Parades – Fort Lauderdale & Cape Coral, Florida 

We were lucky to catch Fort Lauderdale’s famous holiday boat parade—a dazzling spectacle of lights and cheer on the water. Several years later, over on Florida’s Gulf side in Cape Coral, we anchored in Bimini Basin, and was aboard our friends' boat Chandelle just as the festive boats came streaming by. What a magical sight!

Boat Parade at Fort Lauderdale (near Isle of Venice/Las Olas area)

Bimini Basin, Cape Coral

9. Miami Mayhem – Stiltsville to Elliot Key

In Miami, we cruised past the historic houses of Stiltsville and explored Boca Chita Key. When we got to Elliot Key, we were the only boat—until a crowd arrived, and things got wild (skinny-dipping included). Later, a speedboat grounded hard on a nearby sandbar with a thunderous crash. It took hours (and a towboat) to set them free!

Stiltsville

Mai Thai at Boca Chita Key

10. Snorkeling & Aerial Views at Lynyard Cay, Bahamas

Long before drones were in every traveler's toolkit, we found ourselves capturing epic views the old-fashioned way—by climbing the mast.

In April 2003, we cruised to the Abacos with friends we’d met at Jekyll Island. The water was impossibly clear - you could see straight down twenty feet, every coral head and patch of white sand perfectly visible. While anchored off Lynyard Cay, we dinghied over to nearby Sandy Cay, part of the Bahamian National Trust, for a snorkeling session. Beneath the surface, the reef came alive—vibrant corals, darting tropical fish, and an underwater world so pristine it felt untouched. 

Later, back aboard our boats, the captain was hoisted up the mast of our buddy boat One Love (bucket list: checked) to capture a sweeping panoramic shot of Mai Thai anchored in paradise. It was one of those rare, perfect days when everything feels like a dream.

First mates of Mai Thai and One Love

11. Captain Overboard - Barefoot Landing, S. Carolina

This popular spot used to offer three nights of free docking, drawing boaters from everywhere. It was lively and social—right next to a mall. One morning, as a neighboring sailboat was leaving, our captain tried to push her off from Mai Thai, leaned too far, and splashed right into the water. A gator had been spotted the day before. You've never seen anyone swim so fast to get back on the swim platform.

A megayacht grounded at Lockwoods Folly, not far from Barefoot Landing

12. Baltimore, Maryland - Irish Tunes & New Friends

We spent August 2004 at Anchorage Marina, a fantastic spot with great amenities: a cozy lounge with  pool and ping-pong tables, clean restrooms, an outdoor pool, and was just a short walk to shops and Baltimore's vibrant Inner Harbor. 

We met a great mix of fellow boaters there—some of whom we’d later cruise with all the way to Florida and even Tennessee. One evening, we all headed over to nearby Patterson Park for a free outdoor concert. The headliner? None other than Baltimore’s then-mayor, Martin O’Malley, playing Irish music with his band. It was one of those unexpected, magical nights—great music, good company, and a dash of “Only in Baltimore” charm. We’re big fans of Irish music, so the whole experience felt like a little gift from the city.

OMalley's March at Patterson Park

We also spent time with cruising friends Bill and Joy of Chandelle , along with their friend Mike, a retired pilot boat captain living aboard Mi-T-Mo, a converted military transport vessel. Together, we enjoyed boat rides to the bustling Inner Harbor (great live music and food at Phillips Restaurant) and Fells Point, a waterfront neighborhood steeped in maritime history and full of charm.

Chandelle

Bonus Memory: Ritzy Naples, Florida

While cruising from Marathon to Punta Gorda one February, we anchored in the upscale canals of Naples. During the day, we cruised around in the dinghy, taking our time as we passed by gorgeous waterfront homes and got a little taste of the high-end lifestyle from the water.

Exploring the swanky canal of Naples

Jon and Peggy on Island Time

That evening, our buddy boat friends from Island Time joined us for dinner aboard. It was a great night—good food, plenty of laughs, and the kind of easy camaraderie that makes cruising life so special. On their way back in the dark, the poor first mate misjudged a step while boarding the boat from the dinghy. Luckily, she didn't fall in, but her scream lit up every fancy mansion along the canal. We were mortified ... but it makes a great story now.

To everyone who was part of this wild, salty, unforgettable ride: thank you. Mai Thai may be cruising on with new owners, but the stories—and friendships—stay with us forever.

May you have fair winds and following seas!

Some related links:

Cruising Miami, Fl

Cruising North Carolina

Cruising the Chesapeake Bay

A walk down memory lane ... in New York City, NY

Picking chestnuts in the fall at Solomons Island, Md

This post is shared on Image-in-ing, Through My Lens, Little Things Thursday, Skywatch Friday, and Bleubeard and Elizabeth's Altered Book Lover.

You might also like:

Gone Cruisin’	Favorite Cruising Destination: Cumberland Island, Georgia	A day in the life of a liveaboard, part 4

Exploring Panama City Beach and Pensacola, Florida, part 2

One of the absolute highlights of our week in Panama City Beach was the thrilling opportunity to see the Blue Angels in action! We woke up bright and early and made the nearly three-hour drive to Naval Air Station Pensacola to catch one of their practice sessions.

We were fortunate to have great weather that morning. The Blue Angels wowed us with their signature  aerobatic maneuvers, executed with stunning precision and split-second accuracy. For those unfamiliar, the Blue Angels are "the Navy's flight demonstration squadron of the United States Navy." You can read more about them on Wikipedia here.

After the airshow, we cooled off inside the Naval Aviation Museum, exploring its impressive collection of historical aircraft. The amazing Navy veteran Lieutenant Cash Barber, who celebrated his 100th birthday in May, was regaling visitors with stories of life in the navy and flying the amphibious aircraft, the "Catalina" during World War II. Truly inspiring.

We stopped at the Pensacola Light around the corner for a picnic. Just as we were finishing lunch, it started to rain. Alas, no visit to the lighthouse. Or the Gulf Islands National Seashore, much to our disappointment.

Entrance to Pensacola Light

The next few days found us back in Panama City Beach, soaking up the sun and dipping our toes in the warm, clear waters of the Gulf. Thoughts of buying some gear to scoop up the blue crabs we spotted scuttling along the shore definitely crossed our minds — maybe next time!

We enjoyed the glorious sunsets. A perfect ending to our vacation.

sunset at Schooners Restaurant 

sunset at SpringHill Suites, near the PCB Pier

Have you ever been to Pensacola or Panama City Beach, or seen the Blue Angels in action? We'd love to hear about your experience — share your stories or tips in the comments below!

This post is shared on Skywatch Friday, Image-in-ing Through My Lens and Little Things Thursday.

You might also like:

Exploring Panama City Beach and Pensacola, Florida	Summer Weekend at Fort McRae Anchorage	Port of Call: Jacksonville, Florida

Top 10 Favorite Beaches in the U.S.

We're fortunate to have lived in several cities that are in the vicinity of some of the best beaches in the U.S. Cruising up and down the East Coast and along Florida's gulf coast has given us the chance to discover many hidden gems and secluded stretches of shoreline. With so many beautiful beaches out there, we're always eager to explore new spots and uncover future favorites. For now, here are our top 10 favorite  beaches - listed in no particular order.

Thanks to our cousins who live in San Francisco, we got to visit the stunning Baker Beach one January. The huge waves are excellent for surfers, not so much for swimming. Rip currents also pose a danger. But Baker Beach is perfect for fishing, strolling and people watching. And the view of the Golden Gate Bridge is absolutely breathtaking. 

Baker Beach, San Francisco, CA

There isn't a beach on Cape Cod we don't like. If we have to choose one, we'll pick Race Point Beach, on Cape Cod National Seashore in Provincetown, where we went last summer. We're not fond of the cold waters of the Atlantic, but the towering sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see  is simply amazing. as you make the drive from Province Lands Visitor Center to Race Point Beach. If you're lucky, you may see seals, whales, and even sharks. The beach is pristine and so relaxing, especially after visiting the LGBTQ+ capital Provincetown.

Race Point Beach 

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware exudes old-fashion charm, a reminder of the good old days when life was simpler and safer. Aside from the beach, the mile-long boardwalk is lined with ice cream and taffy shops, arcades and thrill rides. It is so safe you or your kids can hang out all night long without any worries, but bring lots of quarters for parking! At least, that was the case the last time we were there.

Rehoboth Beach

Another national seashore we absolutely adore is Assateague National Seashore in Berlin, Maryland. Not only is the beach fantastic,  the wild horses roaming around freely are quite a spectacle. We had a memorable family reunion here one August, see blog post Horsing around Assategue, not far from Rehoboth Beach.

South Ocean Beach, Assateague Island National Seashore, Md

Forget Sanibel. Seven miles of pristine beaches littered with shells await you at Cayo Costa State Park, south of Boca Grande, west of Fort Myers, Florida. As of October last year, ferry service and overnight camping are no longer available, but it is still open to private vessels - boats, dinghies and kayaks. You'll find not only shells, but wildlife galore.

Cayo Costa State Park, Florida

We love Longboat Key and have anchored on Sarasota Bay several times. How can we forget the time when we were out exploring the beach by dinghy, a water police ticketed us for not having enough life jackets for everyone? We've never been fined before, but acquiesced knowing this area gets very rowdy in the summer time. A blogger we follow has more detailed information on Longboat Key and anchoring here.

Longboat Key on the gulf side (photo credits: Phan Thai)

Partygoers on Memorial Day weekend

Every year around Thanksgiving Treasure Island plays host to the sand sculpture competition Sanding Ovation. Three miles of expansive beaches with sparkling sand line the gulf, making it the perfect venue for the event. No need to sweat the parking, there is plenty around. Across the street from the beach is the Publix supermarket, where you can pick up your lunch or snacks. Talk about convenience!

Treasure Island Beach Sand Sculpture Competition

The next three beaches on my top 10 favorite beaches list are Caladesi State Park, Siesta Beach and Fort DeSoto Park. They are usually on Dr Beach's list of top 10 beaches in America, an annual list that comes out on Memorial Day weekend. This year Caladesi made the list again, at number 4.  I have written many posts on these beaches over the years, see links below.

Caladesi State Park

Fort DeSoto North Beach

Siesta Beach

What's your favorite beach?

Cheers, and stay cool! 

This post is shared on Skywatch Friday, Little Things Thursday and Through My Lens.

You might also like:

Best Beach in America: Caladesi Island State Park	Exploring Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts	Best Beach in America: Siesta Beach, Sarasota, Fl