Crew Wanted: Key West to Ft. Myers, end of April

[ronbird]

Cruising the Keys in April, basing out of NAS Boca Chica. Need to return to Ft. Myers (Pink Shell Marina) from Conch Harbor Marina, KW. Planning to depart around the 28th. May have need for at least one mate. No night sails. Leisure return of maybe 3 days stopping at Shark River and Marco Is Marina. Would cover all onboard expenses and possibly return to KW or ?

[windycityxx]

I may be interested in this trip, can you tell me a little bit more? Thanks!

[capngeo]

Beautiful trip! I LOVE that section of FL! If your air draft will let you, hug the coast up to Coon Key, and transit the Marco River to Marco Island Marina (nice marina choice BTW).
I wish I had the time to help you... i've got about 100x trips from KW to Venice; I know every nook and cranny!

[ronbird]

Thanks for the tips Capngeo. Bellissimo Gatto draws 4.5' and the stick needs 72'. Just get under the wires outside Marco Island Marina. Only been there once, but agree-NICE.

[LoriLSingleton]

I'm interested if your still looking for a mate. I have no experience but am very eager to learn. Thank you.

[ronbird]

Might work out Lori. Send me a PM with more background info. Looks like we are neighbors as I live in Dunedin.

[kcartwright27]

Sending you a PM Ron.. :-).. Ron .. sent you an email through your web page.. hope that works. feel free to ping me here or email kcartwright27@yahoo.com

Thanks
Kevin

[RedRider]

What departure date you have in mind? I ask, because I'll be in Midwest til 4/23, when I return to home (just N. Tampa in Wesley Chapel). For 6 years in a row I put together weeklong bareboat charters from Miami to Bahamas. The 65-foot ketch had capt and mate, but we crew were responsible for various duties, including night watches. I'm easy going, retired newspaper reporter, can follow instruction, etc.

[ronbird]

Need to leave The Bight (Conch Harbor Marina) on the morning of the 28th to give time for a leisurely day only sail back to Ft. Myers.

[ronbird]

Now looking like the morning of the 29th. Must be at Pink Shell Marina Resort, Ft. Myers nlt Sat., early afternoon on 2 May. Still a leisure sail even if I lose a day to weather along the way.

[RedRider]

If selected, would drive to Ft. Myers Beach, take Key West Express hi-speed catamaran from marina there (3 1/2 hours). Looks like you return to same FM marina they leave from.

[capngeo]

Originally Posted by ronbird

Thanks for the tips Capngeo. Bellissimo Gatto draws 4.5' and the stick needs 72'. Just get under the wires outside Marco Island Marina. Only been there once, but agree-NICE.

??? I thought those wires were 65'???? There was a guy who hit them a year or two back; hell of a bang, but no other serious damage.

[capngeo]

Originally Posted by ronbird

Need to leave The Bight (Conch Harbor Marina) on the morning of the 28th to give time for a leisurely day only sail back to Ft. Myers.

Seriously you are doing yourself a disservice by missing the Cape and surrounds!

[ronbird]

Yes RR, the KW Express docks in KW a stones throw from where I will be berthed. I think she gets in around 1230. So far, one other serious sailmate. I'll try and send a PM tomorrow. Thanks for the interest. Should be a fun trip.

[Cdreamin]

I just saw your request. I am very interested . I have taken a sailing course at the Pink Shell and also more in Marsh Harbor. I need to gain more experience. I can cover my own travel expenses. PM me if you still need crew.