St. Marys & St. Augustine

It has become a tradition that cruising boats heading south gather in St Marys, Georgia for Thanksgiving. This year a record 107 boats participated. We decided to anchor down river where there was more room, as any wind against tide in these strongly tidal rivers can cause boats to swing wildly. Water Music is highlighted in the black box.


Looking up river to the small town of St. Marys and beyond. Again Water Music is highlighted.


St Mary’s is a sleepy little town with an attractive waterfront.


The riverside park provides plenty of opportunity to slow down and enjoy the view.


For the 7th year running, residents of St. Marys made sure the Thanksgiving dinner was special. They provided and carved 16 turkeys and 8 hams while each cruising boat brought the side dishes. There was so much food we could even take a plate of leftovers back to the boat.


One of the local churches.


Waterfront property at high tide.


Some really beautiful and well maintained homes are dotted around town.


As soon as Thanksgiving is over, the focus is on Christmas and who has the most elaborate decorations.


This was the winner in St Marys.


We then moved on to St Augustine in northern Florida where the town has gone all out to keep the local utility company happy.


St Augustine is the oldest continually occupied city in America, first settled by the Spanish in the 15th century. Being a tourist destination creating a Christmas spirit is big business.


No festivities should be without Santa. Strange looking reindeer!!


Another tradition in many coastal towns along the eastern seaboard is the parade of lights.


In St Augustine it is organized by the local yacht club.


Note the number identification. There has to be a winner!!


Back at the boatyard, where we are currently having work done on our rudder, this Heron prowls the dock.