When you think of sailing it’s open waters and a unlimited horizon but some of the joys of cruising are the chance to see what the natural world has to offer. We were recently exploring John Pennekamp Park with another couple that was working on there  Bareboat Chartering Certification and passed though the fascinating area  below.  The Mangroves of the Keys are a nursery for marine life, home for many species of  birds, and a shelter for sailors from high winds and seas. An area like this is a great place to hide from summer hurricanes and winter “cold” front winds.

Bareboat chartering Class navigating through the mangroves

Sailing in John Pennekamp Park

Red Mangrove Canal in John Pennekamp

Cruising through the Mangrove Canal