Sunday Morning passing Port Everglades

Well if you have wondered where all the cruise ships have gone some of them are right here. Nana had to take the helm as Nandad was overwhelmed with all the magnificent homes all along the way. Marina after Marina with boats everywhere and one bigger than the next. Not much of a recession going on here. Fort Lauderdale has hundreds of canals so it is no wonder it is called the Venice of America. Our only issue was the incredible decibel that the passengers needed to hear the wonderful Caribbean music. Lots of beautiful ladies and the occasional male dancer onboard. The most popular item was the cell phone for selfies. Nana and Nandad did indeed feel old and needed some of their grandchildren to cheer up the cruise! 

You know you are in Fort Lauderdale when you pass all the yellow taxi’s that simply pull bow up to the dock to drop off and pick up passengers. They also give you a tour of a many areas and will give you lots of local information. This area has many restaurants all along the ICW where smaller center console boats can dock - very cool. The Atlantic Ocean is just a block away so beaches are easily assessable. A fun buzz all around you. Passing Hallandale, Hollywood, Dania, and Las Olas.  NH approaches Sunrise Bay , which is directly opposite Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. We almost moved on due to the very noisy day trippers when we spotted our loopers Seneca tucked into the corner. The anchor was dropped and secured and we were off to the park.

Nandad , as you can see , was very busy under the Banyan Tree. This is a lovely park that you can walk, bike ride, and take your car. We found a beautiful Labyrinth, a very quite butterfly garden and lots of picnic areas. Just to top it off we also spotted a raccoon, two huge manatee and a group of Dolphins. It was well worth being tolerant of the day trippers causing lots of turbulence to the boat. When it was time for sunset most of them went home and we had a wonderful dinner onboard listening to Diana Krall - now that’s our kind of music. After this cruise Nana and Nandad will be familiar with all the latest rap songs!