A Stop At Willoughby

A Stop At Willoughby - Part 2

Aboard the Tall Ship, Lynx, we travel in a becalmed sea out into the Bay. My First Mate is S-I-L Drew who has kindly assented to travel with me today. In fact he arrived with a big fat juicy cigar and thought we might be able to have one on board ship, but I gently suggested we might have it after we return from the voyage. Captain Nelson, the Coast Guard and the Lynx Foundation may not like the idea as much as us. But I like the way you think, Drewber.

With full sail and audience participation we head out to sea. They kept us lubbers busy by asking us to help with the sails which is hard tough work.

Out there under the bowsprit would have been a great place for Drew and I to recline, relax and have our cigar, but that appeared to be off-limits to us.

With a calm sea, every inch of sail was needed.

Crew hoisting sail.

The now closed St. Pete Pier. This iconic landmark will be razed so a new iconic landmark can be built. Geez. Florida.

The St. Petersburg skyline from the deck of the Lynx.

We picked a poor day to sail, as the wind was still. But even then the experience of being aboard ship amongst the rigging and ropes was still a thrill.

You wont find many screws or nails - this ship was built according to 1812 standards.

First mate Drew looking pleased with himself after he assisted with hoisting a particularly heavy jib. Drew once had a T-Shirt that I really liked "I May Not Be Very Smart But I Can Lift Heavy Things."

Not much wave to the Stars and Stripes today.

St. Petersburg from the Bay.

We attracted all sorts of curious fans. Many boats on this beautiful day came up to see the Lynx.

After the cruise, the crew went up top to furl the sails for dock.

Your intrepid blogger, at the wheel of the Lynx. Told ya I'd make it to the wheel. Apparently those two lubbers on shore over my left shoulder find this amusing.

In the period of "afterglow" upon reaching shore, Drew and I consummated our experience with a great Macanudo cigar. What a fun experience.

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