Clearwater, FL July 10-12

We’ve had fun in Clearwater the last few days, but it is time to move on.  Wednesday we toured the area, and again braved an impressive thunderstorm on our way back to the boat from dinner.  Thursday we bought an all-day pass on the trolley/bus system, and rode (in a violent thunderstorm) up to Tarpon Springs. 

Boats Behind Us In The Marina

Pelicans Waiting Patiently In Line

By the time we arrived, the rain had ended, and we enjoyed touring this Greek enclave renowned for its sponge harvesting.  We were educated about different types of sponges, and the techniques of harvesting and preparing them for the market.  We also had a lunch of authentic Greek cuisine served by families who obviously have been living here and doing this for decades. 

Tarpon Springs

Tarpon Springs Sponge Boat Exhibit

Tarpon Springs Sponge Boat

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Later, we rode the trolley around its route from Clearwater Beach down to Sand Key, using it as a tour bus.  Today we did trip planning, boat cleaning, laundry, etc., in anticipation of heading down the ICW toward the Palmetto-Bradenton area tomorrow.