It was one of those beautiful South Georgia days between Christmas and New Year. The temperature was forecast to reach 80° with light winds; perfect for a day cruise.

The First Mate suggested (determined) that we should head up the IntraCoastal Waterway with a side trip on the Frederica River to Fort Frederica, the site of one of the first British settlements in this area. The cruise northbound caused us to meet several southbound power and sail boats heading south from “up north” and Canada. It is an annual migration that is interesting to watch.

Coming around the final bend before Fort Frederica, it was easy to see why the British built it where they did. Incoming enemy ships would be a clear on “bow shot” from the fort with limited ability to return fire. The dolphins were enjoying the day as much as we were. They frolicked everywhere, celebrating this glorious weather.

On the trip back to the marina, we passed one of the oldest metal power yachts we have seen in years, slowly heading down the waterway. Everyone fulfills their dreams of being afloat in their own way.

The sixth annual Oak Grove Island Yacht Club Poker Run and Fish Fry was again a huge success. The run to five marinas on calm waters under clear Georgia skies was awesome.

For those who are not familiar with a “poker run”, the rules are simple. All boats have a morning start at the Oak Grove Island Marina and are off to pick up one card that is sealed in an envelope at each of the five marinas. Each person on the boat has a chance to play a hand. At the end, judges open each person’s group of five envelopes to see who comes up with the best poker hand and, therefore, becomes a winner.

The poker run is followed by a fish fry put on by the Yacht Club and is open to all Oak Grove Island property owners. The food was excellent with plenty for all. Thanks to the many hardworking volunteers.

Fall is definitely a perfect time for boating activities in south Georgia. The weather is beautiful and the scenery is fantastic. Soon the “snow birds” will be cruising down the IntraCoastal Waterway from the North, heading for winter “nesting” in Florida and the Caribbean. It’s a “migration” that the First Mate and I would like to join one day. However, one wonders if there is as nice a place as Oak Grove Island at which to spend time.