Tarpon Basin anchorage, Key Largo to Marine Stadium Anchorage, Miami

Great Tiki Bar with Beach at the Overseas Hwy Bridge

Last night we spent in a nice anchorage off Key Largo called Tarpon Basin.  It was spacious and calm and very much “wilderness”, completely surrounded by Mangroves.  This morning we departed there followed by Field Trip, Beach Quest and Priorities.  The seascape here is large bays separated by small land masses with canals and Tiki bars  We made our way up Biscayne Bay and headed for anchorage at Boca Chita.  We knew this was not a sure thing – Boca Chita is known for being a party spot and indeed it was.  The small ring shaped harbor has a small lighthouse at the entrance and an interior circle of cement seawall with cleats.  Every inch of that wall was filled and some boats were rafted off double.  The surrounding park was peppered with tents and loud music was blasting from every direction.  We determined that the advice to only stop there on weeknights and not even try on the weekend was valid and we moved on.

Field Trip, Beach Quest and Priorities

We advanced north up Biscayne Bay with Miami in sight and slowly entered the City part of the ICW.  In this area, boats are coming fast and furious from all directions.  Coming under the Rickenbocker causeway, we turned to the right and came into Marine Stadium.  Marine Stadium is a large anchorage, well protected, and has a fabulous view of the Miami skyline.  There is actually a large stadium of seats on one side of the basin.  In years past there was a floating stage where bands played and large performances were held for people in the stadium as well as boats parked all around the basin.  The stage and performers no longer gather here – the stadium needs renovation and renewal, but meanwhile it’s a great spot for a traveling boat.

Friends now arrive by dinghy for decktails

After setting our anchors, our fellow travelers got in a dinghy and came over to visit us on Reunion.  We shared some snacks and drinks and talked of books and adventures.  The view of the skyline is breathtaking and a cool breeze is blowing through the boat where we have all the windows open.

Approaching Miami through the Biscayne Bay

Night approaches

The sun sets