Day 169 – Monday, November 29, 2010

85° 43.699’ W

30° 08.723’ N

Bay Point Marina

Panama City, Florida



Along the Ditch



Approaching the Ditch



Today was a long day filled with every imaginable weather condition. We departed under marginal conditions which turned ugly within minutes. As we proceeded east into Choctawhatchee Bay the weather started to build rapidly. As we worked our way out of the 3 to 4 foot seas it settled down to 2 footers. About 4 hours into the day it turned to a rough chop with the exception of the DITCH for rest of the way. The Ditch is a man made channel connecting the Choctawhatchee Bay and the West Bay. The water is protected from the wind so we had a couple of hours of scenic and calm cruising. The Ditch is how the ICW was constructed, connecting natural bodies of water together forming an inside passage, ie; ICW. The sand is white, and viewed from the Ditch looks like snow. (Video is crusing along the Ditch)



West Bay



About an hour out from the marina we spotted the three boats we had followed yesterday. A few hours later we caught up with them and slipped into line as we had done the day before.



Arriving at Bay Point Marina

Six hours later we broke away from the convoy and entered Bay Point Marina to begin a one month stay. This is a very beautiful marina within a gated community. I think we picked a winner to leave the boat. Once we leave the marina the harbor master will reposition the boat letting it float free from the dock which is good for the boat in a tidal area!

When we arrived, there were Loopers to great us and help us get tied up. Within an hour we were on a neighbors Yacht having happy hour. A group of other boaters cane over and we were introduced to all. What a great life!