Written by Susan Erwin
Photos provided by Ann & Julie Fletcher
Acausal boat trip along an inland river is a vastly different experience compared to exploring the
Gulf and harbor water that surrounds Boca Grande. Island residents Bob and Ann Fletcher understand
and appreciate the difference since they’ve enjoyed many journeys on both salt and
fresh water.
The Fletchers join a group of boaters each March and take a two-week tour of the St. John’s River
in Putnam County, Florida. The river is the longest in the state, as it winds through and borders 12
counties.
Along with several other captains of wooden boats, they launch their 28-foot vessel, Razzle Dazzle,
at a ramp in Palatka, Florida.
Palatka is a tiny historic town that was established in 1821 and is known for its larger-than-life murals.
Just a bit more than a three-hour car drive from Boca Grande, the area was once the domain of
Timucuan Indian tribes.