Great Loop & Cruising Adventure Blog

We walked to Fishbusterz’s (an amazing fish market right on the docks of the fishing boat harbor on Stock Island) today with the sole intent of securing some fresh tuna for dinner. We had our eyes set on a huge hunk displayed in the case when all of a sudden one of the fishmongers and another man came and took the whole hunk away (apparently a restaurant buyer securing his own bounty).

With our mouths left hanging, because we thought it was a certainty we would have a few steaks off that fillet tonight, we only had to wait a minute, however, before the fishmonger returned and said, “No Problem!” We have more in the back. Off he went and in the room across from the counter two guys pulled out a WHOLE TUNA and began cutting.

Not only were we able to watch our dinner being carved  from this magnificent hunk, right in front of us, but we got some of the freshest tuna in town.

Just around the corner from the marina is the Stock Island Lobster Company and within walking distance is Fishbusterz Fish Market. We walk by the Lobster Company on our daily walks and the colorful lobster pots and fishermen always brighten our day. This is definitely one of the perks of staying on Stock Island, lots of fresh seafood every day.

When we need a little diversion from our normal boating lifestyle; what do we do? Go for a ride in the dinghy of course. After working on the boat we jumped in the dinghy and headed out. We found some interesting canals on the island north or Stock Island and we had a fun afternoon exploring canal life. We think we met more dogs who wanted to defend their waterfront than we did people.

Yes, we’re talking about the Blue Angels. They practiced over our marina for a few days before the Southernmost Air Spectacular show which was at the Naval Air Station on Boca Chica, the next island up from us. Of course we had to take our chairs and unbrella to see our favorite aviators.

As much as we love the Blue angels we were even more amazed and astounded by the daredevil Franklin’s Flying Circus (http://www.franklinairshow.com). Kyle Franklin as Captain Kyro and Amanda Franklin as the Wingwalker, Scandalous Scarlett (below-left).

After the wingwalker act Fat Albert made his appearance followed shortly after by the incredible Blue Angels.

It was so hot out on the tarmac that if you didn’t have an umbrella to shade you from the intense rays of the sun you were sure to get fried. This is definitely the most umbrellas we’ve seen in one spot on a sunny day.

Lunch today was at a unique restaurant in Key West, Blue Heaven, with our friend Jean. As you can see this spot features the laid back atmosphere of the Keys. The dirt floors and several roosters wandering about makes you feel as if you are in your own backyard.

Key West is being inundated by Fathom Yachts – there are three right now in Key West area (2 in Stock Island). Considering there are only about 15 or 16 in existence (and most of those on the west coast) that’s a lot in one place. Our Kismet along with Sea Venture and Wishing Star are all proudly representing HarborView Yacht Sales (www.harborviewyachtsales.com ) in the Keys this winter.

Key West Yacht Harbor is on Stock Island (the next island up from Key West), just a hop skip and a jump from where all the action is in downtown KW. We’ve used several modes of transportation to and from downtown, bus, dinghy or vehicle but sometimes it’s just nice to hang out in the peace and quiet at the marina pool or beach. It’s also a good spot to dinghy around when we need to get off the boat.