The second PGSC cruise of 2001 was to Matlacha. Ten sailboats participated in the adventure. Again the weather was beautiful, but no wind could be found. The group left marker #1 at 9:00 on Saturday, March 10th. The horn sounded for an anticipated race south. After 45 minutes of drifting with the tide, the race was changed to a motorsail. The group arrived at Matlacha bridge at 1:30. The bridge tender was impressed with the size of the flotilla.
After anchoring, the cruisers congregated on several of the rafted up boats for snacks, drinks and sailing chat. This gave us the opportunity to get acquainted with many of the new cruisers in the club.
Dinnertime came quickly. At 5:30, we dinghied to Bert's Bar & Grill and walked down the street to Moretti's Seafood Restaurant. The twenty-five of us enjoyed the view from the waterfront deck and the Italian/German meal (although it was getting chilly). After dinner we went back to Bert's for the entertainment and a brew.
The following morning, those who rose early, enjoyed their coffee while watching the local manatee and dolphins swim around the anchorage. Then it was time for a motorsail back home.
It was a great weekend and everything went off well. The only thing that would have made the weekend perfect was a little wind!Sue Alaimo
