Key Biscayne Yacht Club, Key Biscayne, FL to Marathon Marina and Boat Yard, Marathon, FL

Saturday, June 11, 2011


Island Hopper departed Key Biscayne Yacht Club at 8:15 AM, going to the fuel dock to take on some fuel before heading to Marathon. The skies were sunny and the wind an Easterly 5 knots with Seas 1 – 2. Skies were sunny and it was a smooth cruising day. Island Hopper arrived at Marathon Marina and Boatyard at 2:30 PM after traveling 108 miles. The owners have done a beautiful job renovating the marina. A new pool area will be completed next week.

MARATHON


Marathon is a bustling town, at least compared to other communities in the Keys. As it leaves something to be desired in the charm department, Marathon will probably not be the first choice of places to stay. Outside of Key West, Marathon has the most historic attractions, which merit a visit. Fishing, diving, and boating are the main events here. It throws Tarpon tournaments in April and May, more fishing tournaments in June and September, a birding festival in September, and a lighted boat parade around the holidays. (www.floridakeysmarathon.com )


SEVEN MILE BRIDGE


The Seven Mile Bridge is one of the most photographed images in the Keys. Actually measuring slightly less than 7 miles, it connects the Middle and Lower Keys and is believed to be the world’s longest segmental bridge. It has 39 expansion joints separating its various concrete sections. Each April runners gather in Marathon for the annual Seven Mile Bridge Run. The expanse running parallel to Seven Mile Bridge is what remains of the Old Seven Mile Bridge, an engineering and architectural marvel in its day that’s now on the National Register of Historical Places. Once proclaimed the Eighth Wonder of the World, it rested on a record 546 concrete piers. No cars are allowed on the old bridge today, but a 2 mile segment is open for biking, walking, and Rollerblading.

Sunset At Marathon Marina And Boat Yard

Kevin and Debbie ate dinner at Lazy Days, the marina’s restaurant. Kevin ordered Grouper Lazy Days style and Debbie ordered Mahi Mahi with the same preparation. Both meals were fabulous. Just another day in paradise.