We knew we were in for a couple of bad weather days when we came to Sandestin / Miramar Beach. Rain had been forecasted but what has followed were not a part of our plans. Evidently, the cold front which came through the southeast and Monday produced tornadoes in northern AL also brought sustained high winds to the Gulf coast. Gale force winds (~35 - 47 mph) have been blowing for two days now. Due to the marina's west facing exposure, we have been rocking, bobbing, rolling and jerking for our third day now. This is the first time I have experienced 1-2 ft swells inside a marina area! I have six lines securing MTB in its slip! Yesterday and last night was the worst; today things are quieting down a bit but it’s all relative. With winds howling, flags flapping and no stable area in the boat to stand we took refuge in the shopping village for dinner last night. It felt good to stand still and not bob for a while!

Forecast is for continuing winds, high seas in the Gulf (7-13 ft) and 1-2 ft chop on the GICW. I think conditions will improve and allow us to depart Thursday (tomorrow) for Panama City.

In the meantime, we put sunscreen on and sat out in the glorious sunshine! Glad we’re not in the northeast.