A Quick Day Trip

MM 717

St Augustine is a historic city, known for many unique features including a lighthouse. I captured a shot just before leaving town today.


St Augustine Lighthouse





We passed through the Bridge of Lions at the start of our 63 mile trip to Fernandina Beach, which could be impacted by currents, tides and wind. 

Our estimated time was about 9 hours. But with a good current in our favor, we made the trip in 7 hours, averaging almost 9 miles per hour.  For a motoring sailboat, that’s a good speed.





We were fortunate to have such favorable conditions, allowing us time to walk around quaint Fernandina Beach and to visit the oldest bar in Florida, the Palace Saloon. 


The Palace Saloon was built in 1903 and features their signature Pirates Punch. Interestingly, the bar and cabinetry, chandelier, tin ceiling and flooring were shipped from Düsseldorf Germany for the introduction of Anheiser-Busch in the 1900 World’s Fair. After being stored in a warehouse in Chicago for 3 years, the entire bar assembly was relocated to the Palace Saloon when it was built. It’s fascinating to discover history in such unusual places.

We had an excellent, casual dinner at the Salty Pelican near the Fernandina Harbor Marina. While the neighboring area to is relatively industrial, the marina has comfortable facilities, helpful staff and a great proximity to town.


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