Tampa's Magnificent Sky

Best of 2009: Boats at Rest on Garrison Channel

This black and white image first appeared on November 22 and was the most commented upon of my Tampa Florida Photo posts of 2009. It was taken just before Thanksgiving from the Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park, of the boats at the docks behind the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hilton on Garrison Channel.

All in for the night: Docks at Tampa Marriott Waterside

Tampa saw few breaks in the clouds and rain so it hasn't been the best day for watercraft and fun in the sun. Tomorrow should bring more, much-needed rain so the boats will probably stayed tied at their docks. This scene, looking west down Garrison Channel toward the Harbour Island Bridge and Tampa General Hospital, shows the fine marina facilities behind the Tampa Marriott Waterside hotel located on Old Water Street.

Awesome Sunset Dances in the Face of the Storm

As the sun began to set this evening storm clouds moved in overhead. Light rain was trying to fall as the sun fell fast and the western sky filled with wispy clouds. I took this shot at about 8:45 from the Harbour Island Bridge. Looking west down Garrison Channel, in the center of the frame, is: Davis Islands and Tampa General Hospital; on the right is Cotanchobee-Fort Brooke Park; and the tallest building is the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina. On the left are the docks, homes and condominiums of Harbour Island. The air was cool, dry and, for another 30 minutes, not a drop of moisture fell. But it was a real race off the bridge to keep the camera dry as I finished and the sky opened up with a pounding deluge. So much for being a weatherman and predicting the rain. And it looked like it would be a perfect night to just enjoy the lights of the city. Next time I will bring the plastic bag for the camera. I promise.