MakaiDairyArt.jpgLiving in South Florida, the sea has become a huge part in my life, be it surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, boating, or simply sitting in the backyard and watching the sun paint the sky in amazing fashion as it slowly dips beyond the horizon.

Makai, meaning seaward in Hawaiian, is a simple 16’ outrigger canoe, and has given me the opportunity to get closer to the sea in ways I never thought before. Whether it is by sail, paddle or engine (a simple, 3.3hp Mercury), Makai brings whoever steps on board, closer to the water, letting us explore, party or simply enjoy a beautiful afternoon cruising down the Intracoastal Waterway. The Makai Diaries are the chronicles aboard this simple, yet versatile and hearty craft in the waters of South Florida. This is, quite simply, the Shore Life.

By Stephen Brown

Falling for Fall

October 22, 2011


The impenetrable and blanketing heat and humidity of South Florida has finally broke, and a temperate clime that makes October one of the most pleasant months of the year has fully taken affect. After a few torrential rain storms and some rather rough seas, the tumultuousness has given way to breezy, sunny afternoons with temps that barely brake into the 80s. So after bailing out Makai, a quiet cruise in the backyard around the Jupiter Creek was in order.

   With paddle in hand, we set off along the edges of the red mangroves that encircle Burt Reynolds Park. The mullet have returned, bringing with them jack and snook. Along the public docks next to Guanabanas a grandpa of snook calls home, and won’t stir, no matter how many lines I toss in front of its face. The construction on both bridges along A1A is limiting the amount of boating yahoos coming through the creek, making it much safer and more enjoyable for kayakers, paddle boarders and me, floating along, propelled by only a SUP paddle.

   After snagging a few mullet with a cast net and anchoring Makai just off the creek’s channel, a few casts of line brought in a small jack and two small mangrove snappers. No keepers, but a fun Saturday afternoon nonetheless.

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OFFSHORE CATAMARANS by BELL COMPOSITES, INC.