Dinner Key - Coconut Grove - Miami

 

The Waterway Guide mentioned the immense mooring field of 250 balls at Dinner Key (Coconut Grove - Miami).  Barry inquired of the marina as to the possibility of getting a covid test in the area.   They told us about the testing facility in the park directly behind their marina.  

Both Barry and I were able to get a rapid antigen test as well as a pcr test through this kiosk.  The fellow doing the testing suggested we use the marina's address as we were Canadian and this allowed us to get the tests free.  (a saving of at least $250)

We co-ordinated having the tests done, allowing 2 days for processing, with an upcoming weather window to make the crossing to Bimini and check in within the 72 hour requirement. 

Dinner Key marina was a great help to us.  Not only did we get the covid tests we needed but we also enjoyed their beautiful facilities. 

Barry made a trip to Ace Hardware for belts etc., topped up our fuel and fresh water and got a propane tank filled.   I visited the nearby Fresh Market to replenish our fruit and vegetables. 

Much as we enjoyed our time at Dinner Key and felt their mooring balls were great value ($29. a night), we were happy to head across Biscayne Bay to anchor in the lee of Key Biscayne (outside No Name Harbour) with over 50 other boats.....waiting to go.

We were surprised to find Dinner Key's immense mooring field was unprotected except from the west (prevailing wind- east).  The vast majority of boats on the balls were unoccupied and had no dinghys.  It appears they are "stored" there ..... right out in the open bay.  Odd.  Must be quite interesting when the wind picks up. 

Dinner Key is home to a vast fleet of International Etchells Class boats. We delighted in watching the massive fleet sail out the channel for Friday races.