Trip to the Springs!

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freedomvango

New member
Spent the weekend testing out all the electrical upgrades I recently installed on the boat—and let me tell you, it was amazing! Took a 4-hour cruise at 26 mph from Jacksonville to Silver Glen Springs along the St. Johns River. Conditions were chef's kiss perfect on the water, though it was pretty chilly overall.

I added a thru-hull exhaust and a Chinese diesel heater because I ran out of time to install the gas-fired Espar heater. But I wasn’t about to let that stop me—I had to see the manatees!

We set out around 8 a.m. with temps sitting at a brisk 30°F, but inside? Toasty and warm. The water was like glass almost the entire way—absolutely stunning.

When we got to the springs, it was pretty empty. Just one other boat besides the usual houseboat crowd (you know the type). Later that night, a few locals were out bowfishing, but overall, it was super quiet and peaceful.

As for the manatees—oh man, they didn’t disappoint! Curious and friendly as always. When we stopped, they all came up to hang out with us for the day. Got to watch them roll around and even saw a few babies in the group. So cool!

Overall, 10/10 trip. Totally worth the effort, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
54290253177_d99aae0cda_b.jpgSilver Glen Springs by boat by Grant Wilson, on Flickr
54291371259_d5214b6c57_b.jpgSilver Glen Springs by boat by Grant Wilson, on Flickr
54291131281_8193223988_b.jpgSilver Glen Springs by boat by Grant Wilson, on Flickr

54291131541_74b3d9d7b7_b.jpgSteam in the morning at Silver Glen Springs by Grant Wilson, on Flickr
54291563430_e0460ce3c5_b.jpgSteam in the morning at Silver Glen Springs by Grant Wilson, on Flickr

The morning brought some crazy steam from the 72 degree springs in the 25 degree air. Had to get in the water and walk out to get these shots and it was 100% worth it.
 
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Thank you for the very well done video. Also excellent instructions on dealing with Manatees. I might add that a swirl on the surface can indicate a manatee below--and go idle speed only where near.

I was surprised that other boats were there, and that the gigging boats were active this time of year. In March we see fewer Manatee in those waters. This is one of our favorite places. We miss not being able to go there. The entire Hontoon River is a gem--many parts where history has stood still. You can read books that describe it over 150 years ago.

Thank you!
 
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