Meet the Cornish family from Destin, who’ve turned boat days into a family tradition. From their trusty 22-foot Sailfish to their go-to anchoring spots, they’re sharing the inside scoop on what makes a perfect day on the water in Okaloosa County.
Who are you bringing along on a typical boat day?
The 4 of us – Ben, Ethan, Hadley and myself (Whitney). A lot of days we run across the bay to pick up my mom who lives on the water in Shalimar, so it makes it easy to grab her. We also have a 1 y/o chocolate lab named Stella, who loves to join.
How long have you been boating locally?
My entire life. My father raced sailboats when I was a kid and he owned a Catamaran.
What do boat days mean to your family — relaxing, adventure, a little bit of both?
Both! We love finding new places to boat too!
Do you have a slip, or do you launch from a specific ramp?
We launch from Joe’s Bayou, since we live nearby. I pride myself on being able to drive the boat and put it on / take it off the trailer. Most days my son Ethan gives me a 10/10.
Where’s your favorite spot to anchor and spend the day?
Either Redneck Beach or the first cove on the tip of Norriego.
What kind of boat do you have?
22 foot Sailfish.
What’s your typical timeline — quick morning ride or full-day outing?
We love getting out about 9 a.m. and coming in about 3-4 p.m. before the boat ramp gets full of crazies.
What’s packed in your cooler or boat bag every time?
A few adult drinks, lots of kids drinks, Jersey Mikes subs and a jar of pickles.
What’s your go-to playlist or favorite boat-day song?
Ben’s favorite song is ‘Buy Dirt’ by Jordan Davis and I like Brian Kelly’s ‘Made by the Water’.
On the water — your local favorites:
Kickin’ Chicken delivers sandwiches out there and they are great!
What’s the best part about being on the water?
Family time, soaking up this blessing of living in paradise.
Do you still stop and stare when you see dolphins?
Every single time, as if I’ve never seen them. (Whitney also filmed the gator in Joe’s Bayou that went viral.)
Do you prefer exploring new areas or sticking to the same spot?
50/50, depends if it’s an incoming tide. It’s hard to pass on the pretty water days.
Are you the captain, the snack person, the DJ… or all three?
I’m capable of all 3, but I just enjoy the ride.
Do you ever do sunset cruises?
Absolutely! Usually starts with a harbor cruise and ends with catching the sunset at Crab Island.
What makes a boat day better than a beach day for your crew?
You have your own space, if you don’t want to be near anyone, you choose your own paradise.
Any advice for people looking to do their first boat day around here?
Get out early! The best boating spots fill up fast and have fun!
Want to be featured in our “Boat Days” or “Beach Days” series? Email us at laiken@getthecoast.com or ashley@getthecoast.com – we’d love to hear about your local adventures!
