Barb Hansen offers some great ideas for getting out on the waters of Southwest Florida for social distancing the natural way. If you don’t live in Florida consider traveling there once this is over and enjoying everything it has to offer. ~MC
I just finished reading an Associated Press sports story that really hit home with me. The article was entitled, “Call to the wild: Great outdoors is great escape in tough times.”
You might wonder what the heck a sports story has to do with cruising the waters of Southwest Florida. Well, let me tell you.
This AP story was focused on opportunities in the northeast U.S. Fishing for trout, hiking, snow activities and other things people can do in the great outdoors during these challenging times. The key message to me was “the great outdoors provides a natural way to distance.” One of the individuals quoted in the story said “They may close the borders. The may close amusements and the sports stadiums and any places that lots and lots of people gather. But they’re not going to close the rivers and streams. It’s something that always brings inner peace and calmness.”
No question, Southwest Florida is far different that the northeast, but at the same time when it comes to the great outdoors and bodies of water, we’re a lot alike in our own special way.
The opportunities to experience what Mother Nature has to offer are endless. You can fish; you can visit islands and many locations only accessible by boat where many of her creatures reside. You can charter a power boat or sailing cruiser. If you need a captain, one can be provided.
And all of this occurs amid some of the greatest cruising areas in the U.S. In fact, CRUISING WORLD has ranked this as the top chartering destination in the U.S. and number three in the world.
You’ve got the Gulf of Mexico, the Intracoastal and Okeechobee Waterway which will take you across Florida to the east coast and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s not uncommon to be accompanied by “wake-dancing” dolphins among abundant bird and marine life. The scenery is wonderful and the sunsets just can’t be beat.
If you’re in to shelling, have at it and no worries about maintaining appropriate social distance. Chances are you and your crew will be the only ones shelling on many of the coastal islands at your disposal.
If you are looking for a great escape in these troubling times, add Southwest Florida to your list and give us a chance. I firmly believe you will be glad you did. Lastly, please stay safe.
Barb Hansen manages Southwest Florida Yachts, yacht charters and Florida Sailing & Cruising School, a liveaboard yacht school. Contact her at info@swfyachts.com. Find out more about Southwest Florida Yachts here.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
