NW FL Outdoor Adventure

Bahama Bound

2011-02-05T19:14:00.000-08:00

Well, I've been home for a week now after my cruise to the Bahamas so it's time to get back to the routine. I'll start with a wrap up of my cruise and follow up with specific islands/excursions in a later post. I know they're not exactly Northwest Florida, but hey, a girl's entitled to a vacation every now and again.

My friend and I drove down to Port Canaveral the day before our cruise so that we could get settled into our hotel and relax before boarding our ship, the Norwegian Sun. We stayed at the Courtyard Marriott in Cocoa Beach and took advantage of their Park and Cruise program where you can leave your car at the hotel while on the cruise and the hotel will shuttle you to and from the port. This service went off without a hitch and was first rate all the way around. Not only that, but when you check into the hotel you're given a free glass of wine or beer depending on your preference to help you unwind.

Sunrise at Cocoa Beach

Morning dawned beautifully as you can see from the above picture. Temperatures were pleasant and a delightful change from the freezing temps of Northwest Florida. A girl could get used to this. We ate breakfast and then clambered onto the stylish air-conditioned bus provided for us by Courtyard Marriott and were on our way to the port to board our ship.

Boarding at Port Canaveral was easy and we were onboard the Norwegian Sun by noon. Our rooms wouldn't be ready for a couple of hours so we set out for the main dining room to have lunch before exploring the rest of the ship. Simply put the Norwegian Sun is beautiful. She'd just come out of dry dock and although there was still some work being done here and there, for the most part she was an elegant specimen of a ship.

Stained Glass Mural Deck 6, Aft

Sail-away was at 4:30 so we made our way up to Deck 12 and Champ's Bar where we were to meet a couple of friends. The weather was not cooperating and strong winds quickly chased us down to Deck 11 (aft) and the Great Outdoor Cafe where we waved goodbye to Florida. My friend ducked downstairs to take advantage of a sail-away special while I remained at the cafe to snap photos. The winds picked up so bad that chairs were blowing across the deck and it wasn't long before I headed down below as well.

Upon leaving Port Canaveral we headed into gale force winds that lasted most of the night. My stomach and I weren't on the best of terms that first evening (I'm not so certain it was seasickness) so I stayed in the cabin and between napping bouts I would stare out our window at the raging storms chasing us. I love watching lightning storms and these were pretty spectacular to say the least.

By morning we had calmer seas and sailed into Freeport, Bahamas where we would begin our first shore excursion. I'll detail those in separate posts.

While on the ship we dined in the Main Dining Room, the Seven Seas and the Garden Cafe. Our favourite restaurant turned out to be the Seven Seas because we had the most attentive waiter and bartender that really made our evenings delightful. The fine dining experience was also something I could get used to.

It took several days for us to explore the whole ship (and I'm sure there are places we still didn't find.) I took a dip in the hot tub, had a massage at the spa, took in a feature show in the Stardust Lounge, went to (and danced at) NCL's White Hot Party at Dazzles, strolled the Galleria and store shops, lounged in the Observation Lounge and more. There was so much to do that there was no way you could get bored and in fact we didn't make it to half of the things we wanted to do.

Pools & Hot Tubs on the Norwegian Sun

Observation Lounge on the Norwegian Sun

NCL White Hot Party on the Norwegian Sun

All in all it was a fabulous trip. The only downside was that I had some jewelry stolen from my luggage during disembarkation. I don't know if it was by the crew or the luggage porters at Port Canaveral but I've learned two things: 1) Luggage locks on zippered suitcases are useless (look it up on YouTube) and 2) the next time I purchase jewelry abroad I will have it mailed home, insured.

Despite the theft I've put a deposit down on a future cruise. Now I've just got to figure out where I want to go next.

Manatee Snorkeling Video

2010-12-26T05:49:00.000-08:00

This is a short two minute video of my time at Three Sisters Springs. If you listen closely you can hear the manatees squeaking in order to communicate with one another. Yesterday's post contains more details and photos of my trip to Crystal River, Fl. Enjoy.

The Beauty of Nature

2010-12-05T13:56:00.000-08:00

With all of the outdoor adventuring that I do I sometimes forget to toot my horn. Back in October I had the honor of being chosen as Club Kayak's Photographer of the Month for the following photos.

Alligator and Turtle Basking along Alexander Spring Run

When I first paddled up on this duo on Alexander Spring Run it was a complete surprise. So much so that I was backpaddling and repeating the phrase "gator, gator, gator!" After a moment to recompose and reorient my kayak I finally managed to snap the picture. This picture always leads to the question of "why doesn't the alligator just eat the turtle?" The answer is evident in the following photo.

Alligator Resting on a Basking Turtle at Alexander Spring Run

The simple answer is that it takes a long time to chose the perfect pillow. You don't want one that's too firm, or too soft. So after putting in all that effort to find the perfect pillow, you don't want to eat it.

Osprey Dining on a Mullet; Alexander Spring Run

Kayaking very often allows you to see nature in action. As I was paddling along this Osprey plucked a mullet right out of the water near my kayak and carried it up into a tree to dine on. I just wish I had one of those uber nice cameras with an awesome zoom lens.

Butterflies Extracting Moisture Along Boiling Creek

There were several dozen butterfiles along a sandbar on my favourite creek, Boiling Creek. I managed to get three of them to sit still long enough to be photographed.

Pitcher Plants Along Boiling Creek

Boiling Creek has some of the most beautiful and interesting plants found in the Florida panhandle. I love paddling on Boiling. The water is crystal clear and you can see all the way to the sandy bottom.

Dragonfly on Water Lily; Boiling Creek

There have been water lilies each time I've paddled on Boiling Creek. This one has a dragonfly perched on a petal. As I drifted in close for this shot, my kayak slid across the tops of some other lily pads and it sounded like strange but beautiful music. I named my kayak Siren Song as a result.

Snorkeler at Cypress Springs, Fl.

The wonderful thing about having a waterproof camera is shots like this one. Cypress Springs is located on the Holmes River north of Panama City, Fla.

Attack of the Tadpoles

Okay, so these tadpoles are not actually attacking. I took this shot in a spring on Econfina Creek. There were hundreds of giant non-metamorphic tadpoles ranging in size from 4 to 6 inches. I let my kayak drift into a pod and I just stuck my camera down in the water and started snapping away.

Shangri-la Springs, Merritt Mill Pond, Marianna, Fla

This spring is one of several located in Merritt Mill Pond near Marianna, Fl. The pond is about four miles long from the dam to Jackson Blue Spring and is a popular spot for cave diving.

Cormorant on Silver River

All of the wildlife on Silver River near Ocala, Fl, is protected and this may be why this cormorant allowed me to get so close. I could have literally have reached out and touched him, however, I value my fingers since I need them to write informative and entertaining articles. I hope to continue to share unique and interesting photos with all of you in the future. :)

Adventure on Okaloosa Island

2010-11-28T17:36:00.000-08:00

There's plenty of activities to keep you busy on Okaloosa Island. Most days you can watch people windsurfing, kite surfing and paddleboarding (SUP.) There's always someone fishing over on the pier. Even couch potatoes can sometimes be found lying on the beaches like orphaned seals. And THAT brings me to my segue... you can see live sea lions (not seals), dolphins and other aquatic sea life at Florida's Gulfarium located right next to the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island!

It's hard to believe that until today, I have lived in Florida for eight years and have never been to the Gulfarium and it's only about 15 minutes from my house! Well, quick fingers got me the hook up with a Half-off season pass (thanks to WEARTV3) to this aquatic wonderland and off I went with my camera in tow for a fun-filled afternoon.

I entered the park armed with the knowledge that the sea lion show was about to start. As I made my way past the central tank that houses the dolphins, an inquisitive face appeared in one of the windows and appeared to intently check me out. I could almost swear that she smiled at me before swimming away. I found out later that this lovely dolphin was namped Daphne and I'll write more about her antics later.

Daphne Looking Through the Viewing Window

I arrived at the sea lion show and scored a prime seat, meaning not too close (water splash) and not too far (binoculars.) I only had to wait a couple of minutes before the trainers came out and put Molly, Star and Cory through their paces. This charming trio was fun to watch and put a smile on everyone's faces.

Cory Performs

Next stop was the multi-species show via the shark moat, but don't worry, not only is there a bridge, but the only sharks in this tank are nurse sharks and one very large sea turtle. I stopped to get pictures simply because I find sharks terrifying and fascinating at the same time. Oddly, I didn't even see the giant sea turtle until I passed by again later.

Nurse Shark

The tank at the multi-species exhibit allowed me to get the closest I've ever been to a dolphin without having a kayak in between us. I was so close that I could have touched them, however no touching is allowed. :( That's okay. I've got a dolphin encounter booked during my Bahama cruise. :)

Sea Lion Giving Dolphin a Kiss

Kyle Performs a Graceful Dive

The multi-species show adds a sea lion into a scaled down dolphin show. This show was entertaining, even though Kyle the sea lion had a minor panic attack about halfway through the show. :( If I had to guess, I suspect one of the dolphins said something to bruise his ego.

After the multi-species show I had a few minutes to wander through some of the other exhibits. I visited the revisited the shark moat, penguin exhibit, touch pool, stingray, tropical bird, and alligator exhibits. I managed a glance at the tortoise enclosure and sea turtle exhibit as well before heading upstairs to the main dolphin show where Daphne and her daughter Lily performed an amazing show for everyone.

Daphne Nails the Suspended Ball

Special thanks goes to Daphne and the timing on my camera for snagging this phenomenal shot!

Daphne Sails Through a Hoop

The show wrapped up and I spent a few more minutes wandering around getting more shots. An empty camera SD card is an unhappy SD card.

Penguin

Cownose Ray

Sea Turtle

Lily Poses for the Camera

Florida Alligator

All-in-all it was an afternoon well spent. I got to see some of my favourite animals; got plenty of pictures; and bought Christmas presents for a couple of friends from the gift shop. :D Talk about unique holiday gift shopping!

Manatee Watching Via Webcam

2010-11-20T09:49:00.000-08:00

If you've ever wanted to see manatees but weren't able to make the trip down to Florida to see them, now you can see them from the comfort of your own home thanks to a webcam installed at the entrance of Three Sisters Spring in Crystal River by the (FWC) Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee. This camera is solar powered and operates from dawn to dusk.

Snorkelers in Three Sisters Spring via FWC Webcam

Viewing the webcam is limited to 30 viewers at a time. Those logging on when the cams are at max viewing capacity will receive an error message until a viewer space opens up. ActiveX installation is required to properly view the live feed. There is also a snapshot feature available allowing viewers to take pictures which they can then save to their computer.

To view the manatee webcam click on the "Single" tab at the top of viewing page: http://manateecam.viewnetcam.com/ Images may take a few moments to load.

Manatees frequent sites like Three Sisters Spring during the winter months. Fortunately the FWC has taken steps to help protect these endangered mammals by closing off access to some of these important refuges. Other measures include imposing "no wake" zones, limiting human interaction with and possible harassment of manatees, and increasing law enforcement patrols.

Kayakers at Three Sisters Spring Via FWC Webcam

Paddling on the Perdido River

2010-10-25T19:09:00.000-07:00

On Sunday eight paddlers showed up bright and early on a perfectly perfect day for paddling with the FPCKC (Florida Panhandle Canoe & Kayak Connection) down the Perdido River. The drought had brought water levels down to almost historical levels in much of the Florida panhandle, but despite the low water our band of stalwart adventurers set forth from Muskogee Adventures Unlimited Landing heading for our destination nine miles downriver at Sand Landing in the Perdido River Water Management Area.

After arriving at the launch site we paid our fees ($2 to launch or $5 to park and launch) and shuttled vehicles down to Sand Landing. Both places were easy enough for my front wheel drive Chevy Cavalier to manage without any problems and finding room to park wasn't a problem. Also, there is a picnic table and port-a-potty available at Sand Landing. We were on the water and off to adventure a little before 10:00 a.m.

The water had a light tannin color to it like nearby Blackwater and the current was slow and easy. We took advantage of this while enjoying chatting and taking in the scenery, especially since we didn't have a single portage to contend with. I saw woodpeckers, hawks, fish, one turtle (it dove before I could get a picture,) a scrub lizard and a snake crossing the river. Our trip leader, Jim Park, pointed out several alligator slides on some of the banks, but we never did see a gator.

The surrounding lands were a mix of hardwood, pine, and wiregrass. The remains of old lumber harvesting operations (mostly Atlantic white cedar) litter the length of the river and in some places you can see where they've become a part of the land itself, cutting off passage into neighboring streams and oxbows. The river channel itself has been cleared for small boats. Our group only encountered one motor boat and that was closer to Sand Landing. I happened to be in the wrong/right place at the wrong/right time as it roared around a bend. I took a split second to decide that I was going to dart my kayak up a side channel and timed it just right as the wake pushed me up the channel.

This was my first trip with the FPCKC group and they turned out to be a darn fine bunch of peeps. We stopped a few times on several of the sandbars and shared stories and snacks. On one of those time-outs it started to sprinkle, but only lasted about 10 minutes or so. At least the rain was warmer than the 64 degree water. ;) The high for the day was only 80, but no one got hot enough to jump into the chilly river.

We arrived at Sand Landing a little bit before 3:00 p.m. Perfect timing for me since I still had an hour and a half drive back to Fort Walton Beach. It was worth the drive though, and I finally got my kayak straps to stop roaring after two more stops. ;)

If you'd like to join the Florida Panhandle Canoe & Kayak Connection head on over to www.fpckc.com. No dues! Lots of Trips!

From Alligators to Tadpoles

2010-09-11T17:11:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling a bit under the weather this weekend so I decided to stay home and work on a few articles instead. I finally got Kayaking With Alligators posted, a trip that I went on about three weeks ago. There are alligators all across Florida, but they are definitely more numerous and easier to spot in central and south Florida.

Gator! Gator! Gator!

I learned a pretty healthy respect for alligators after a close encounter of the wrong kind when I was still living in Mississippi. It was at my first apartment, on the waterfront, and every afternoon I would walk down to our dock, dangle my feet over the edge and feed a little trio of ducks that also lived there. One peaceful afternoon the ducks were swimming just beneath my feet snatching up pieces of bread when the water beneath my feet erupted! A large alligator surfaced, throwing a duck backwards into its gaping maw while the remaining two made a break for it.

In utter shock I somehow managed to scramble to my feet and raced for the apartment and safety. Upon arriving I could only repeat the barely coherent phrase, "Gator! Gator! Gator! A Gator ate my duck!" Of course, my then husband and his friend didn't believe me but followed me back down to the dock where they were able to see the 8-9' alligator swimming slowly away.

Several things happened after that day. 1) I no longer dangle my feet over the water. 2) I don't feed ducks any more. 3) I developed a fear of sharks and dark water (probably based on unseen things in the water) and 4) I have a whole new respect (not fear) for alligators. I even learned as much as I could about them so I could better understand their habits and behaviour.

Since moving to Florida an getting into the sport of kayaking I find myself in alligator territory quite a bit. Even when actively searching for them I can still be surprised when I come upon one suddenly, and true to form I still yell, "Gator! Gator! Gator!" Some things never change.

Lurking Alligator

Last weekend's trip didn't involve alligators, but it still came with adventure and danger. Our group of intrepid adventurers headed out to Econfina Creek from the Walsingham put-in to the Hwy 20 take-out. Water levels were very low and it was portage hell for the majority of the trip, especially when we rounded one bend to find some local yokels had placed large rocks across the entire creek. To add insult to injury their unrestrained pit bull mixes tried to attack us. The two that went after me met the business end of my paddle.

But to earn the reward one has to pass the gauntlet. Our reward was a side trip into Washington Blue Spring where my kayak drifted into a sea of giant tadpoles, Rana heckscheri or River Frogs. These enormous tadpoles, averaging 4"-6" in length take anywhere from one to two years to transform into frogs. Because of this they need a continuous body of water, like a spring or bog, to live in until it's time. Special thanks to my Canon Powershot D10 for these pics.

Rana heckscheri, River Frog Tadpoles on Econfina Creek

A sea of giant tadpoles on Econfina Creek.

Well, that's it for this week's post. Hopefully I'll be feeling better next weekend and I'll have a brand new adventure to share.

A Visit to Ocala

2010-08-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

While it is true that a trip to the Ocala area isn't Northwest Florida, it still earns a place in the adventure category. This weekend our brave band of adventurers tackled the Ocala National Forest area which included kayak trips on both Alexander Creek and Silver River.

We arrived at Alexander Creek shortly after lunch for an easy paddle upstream to the head springs and state park. Along the way we saw numerous turtles, birds, fish, 4 alligators and even a raccoon. Upon reaching the head springs a sign states that kayakers must pay a $5.50 landing fee if they intend to stop and swim in the springs. Being a Saturday in August the park and swimming area were extremely crowded, but we managed to squeeze in for a short break.

Turtle and Alligator basking on Alexander Creek

Alexander Springs

We paddled back to our put-in location and loaded up the truck for the drive to our hotel. Out of convenience we staged our base camp out of the Day's Inn Silver Springs, however, I wouldn't recommend that hotel again due to the heavy mold smell that permeated our room. The hotel was booked to capacity and we were unable to move to another room.

We unloaded our gear, showered, grabbed a quick bite at the Outback Steakhouse and managed to make it to our next destination, Ocala Ghost Walks, with 5 minutes to spare. The Ocala Ghost Walk tour is entertaining if nothing else. Having been on legitimate ghost hunts in the past, this one fell far short of expectations. This was mainly a historic walking tour (light on the history) and any attempt at a real investigation is easily contaminated by road & pedestrian sounds, lights, and smells. The tour finally wrapped up and we headed back to the hotel and turned in for the night.

Spanish moss in the eerie glow of the moon

Morning came far too early for some of us. Breakfast was at 7 and we were at Silver River by 8:30. We started early because we still had a six hour drive home ahead of us and we wanted to allow plenty of time for exploring.

Silver River is beautiful. The water is relatively deep and clear, becoming increasingly clearer the closer you get to the head springs. The current is moderate and steady for the entire four mile upstream paddle and can present a challenge for some. We wound up leaving one of our group at Silver River State Park about halfway to the spring while we continued upstream. We could've started at the park for a shorter trip, but it comes with .07 mile portage from the parking lot to the kayak launch.

Silver River

We paddled into the Silver Springs attraction and watched the glass bottom boats glide by as their tour operators pointed out the sights to their fascinated riders. The springs are absolutely beautiful and we spent several minutes exploring and enjoying their beauty. As I was getting ready to paddle out a tourist from the boardwalk told me about a 12' alligator that was hovering near the docked boats. I followed his pointing finger and paddled over to the “monster.” It turned out to be a 4' alligator. Apparently one multiplies the length of the alligator by the number of people who saw it to come up with an “accurate” length. ;)

"12 footer" Alligator - Actually 4' feet

Silver Springs Attraction

After snapping a few photos we headed back downstream to collect our straggler from Silver River State Park. Boat traffic was picking up by this time and we passed several motor boats and an air boat. I'd never seen one in “the wild” before and made sure to snap a few photos. And now that there were more people on the river another new fact revealed itself; there were lots of people swimming in the alligator infested waters!! All I can think is that people like this are the reason we have the 6-O'clock news.

Cormorant

Finally we arrived back at the Ray Wayside Landing where we put in and started loading up the kayaks. August in Florida is not kind and a couple of us got a touch of heat sickness while helping to load the boats and had to retreat to the air conditioned truck. It's important to recognize the signs and take action as soon as they start. We recovered after a bit and were soon on our way home.

Although brief, our trip to the Ocala area was remarkable. We plan to head back when we can spare a couple of extra days to explore the area's other springs and rivers. I'll be posting a more detailed article in the near future so be sure to check back.

Kayaking with the Dog

2010-08-09T14:14:00.000-07:00

We don't take the dog with us very often when we kayak. Here in Florida one has to always be alert to dangers like alligators. But once in a while, like on the Shoal River near Crestview, Fl, we'll let Dakota, an American Eskimo mix, tag along for some fun.

Dakota at the bow

Dakota has a natural affinity to water. He loves anything having to do with water. His 'sister' Tigger, a Boxer-mix tripod, has a strong aversion to water and will likely never be comfortable enough to go on a float trip with us. Dakota is right at home on a kayak, although now that he's getting older his coordination isn't what it used to be and he tires a little easier than in his younger days. For this reason he must wear his doggie life jacket any time he's on the water with us.

For yesterday's trip we revisited the Shoal River near Crestview. This is a shallow, easy-flowing river that's perfect for trips like this. It is also alligator-free (although there could be some off in the swampy areas.) Our trip took about four hours to complete and I think you would've been hard-pressed to find a happier little dog. He got to swim, navigate (he thinks) and be chauffeured in both kayak and truck. Oh yeah, Life if Good.

So because he can't read or operate a computer, I will share a couple of his more humiliating photos. Here, Dakota had just taken a tumble out of the kayak and had to be hoisted back in. This is where a life jacket with a handle is so phenomenal.

Dakota takes a spill

And this is where Dakota took another spill. We had so many that we actually lost count. Well, at least he had fun and no one got hurt.

Perhaps duct tape is in order...

So, now that the importance of a doggie life jacket has been shown, perhaps you'd like to get one for your pet. Below are links to some of the best and safest pet life vests you can get. Paddle safe!

Plan a Kayak or Canoe Trip on the Shoal River near Crestview, Fl

2010-06-17T05:43:00.000-07:00

Shoal River near Crestview Florida is an excellent yet often overlooked paddling destination along the Florida panhandle. From its meager beginnings, the usually peaceful and easy-flowing Shoal travels some twenty-seven miles to join with the Yellow River. Numerous large sandbars along its shallow course offering ample opportunity to stop for a picnic lunch or even to make camp if the weather and water levels are favorable.

The Shoal is not a very deep river, generally ranging from one to four feet for much of its length through hardwood forests. Paddlers can enjoy a peaceful float trip with only a bridge or two interrupting the scenery. As with most rivers, paddler may encounter a submerged log or two, but no log jams. Closer to the take-out point near Hwy 85 just south of Crestview the first hints of civilization reappear in the form of a handful of homes nestled along the highest banks of the river.

Wildlife along the river is abundant. Red-cockaded woodpeckers flit from tree to tree as red shouldered hawks soar overhead. The river hosts an abundance of fish and turtles and the occasional fisherman can be seen trying their luck in lily covered side pools. The surrounding forest is home to Florida black bear, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, fox and coyote.

Plan a Float Trip on Shoal River

The navigable section of the Shoal River begins at the Ray Lynn Barnes Landing on Highway 90 just east of Crestview and continues approximately 9.5 miles to the first take-out at Hwy 85 south of Crestview. For paddlers wishing to continue past this point to the Yellow River or Gin Hole Landing a low-cost recreation permit must first be obtained from the Eglin Division of National Resources, known locally as the Jackson Guard. The office is located at 107 Highway 85 in Niceville and can be contacted at (850) 882-4164 for more information.

Finding Adventure along the Emerald Coast

2010-05-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

The Northwest Florida panhandle, also known as The Emerald Coast for it's stunning emerald green waters and sugar white sand beaches, has an abundance of fun activities and destinations to be experienced. While some visitors might be content to sunbathe on the beaches, there are those adventurers that crave activities like deep sea fishing, kayaking, hiking, parasailing, windsurfing and more. Luckily the Emerald Coast has something for everyone.

Starting in the eastern portion of the panhandle, at Port St. Joe visitors can tour St. Vincent Island, scallop in Saint Joseph's Bay or visit Cape San Blas and take a horseback ride on the beach. Panama City and the surrounding area offers pirate cruises, airboat rides and beautiful springs to explore along Holmes and Econfina Creeks. Destin, known as the World's Luckiest Fishing Village, offers dolphin cruises, deep sea fishing, and snorkeling trips.

Moving westward visitors can explore Okaloosa Island and fish, kiteboard, snorkel or surf. On the bay side lies the vast Choctawhatchee Bay where countless adventure opportunities abound. At nearby Eglin AFB, 464,000 acres of wilderness have been preserved and approximately 280,000 acres are available for recreational use with the purchase of a low cost permit available from the Jackson Guard located at 107 Hwy 87N in Niceville, Fl.

Near Pensacola that are numerous kayaking trips that can be planned for Blackwater, Juniper, Coldwater and nearby Yellow River. There are also a number of Florida State Parks worth exploring in close proximity to Pensacola; Big Lagoon, Perdido Key, Tarklin Bayou, Yellow River Marsh and Blackwater River State Parks.

So stick around while I review the best of what the Emerald Coast has to offer. You won't be disappointed.