LNG-fueled bulk carrier HL ECO, owned by H-Line, lost power while maneuvering to anchor and collided with the Japanese bulk carrier YM SERENITY. Footage shows the LNG fuel tank of HL ECO disintegrating upon impact. Fortunately, the empty tanks prevented an explosion. pic.twitter.com/CoyS2Z2l3C

— FocuSeaTV (@focuseatv) July 31, 2024

Egmont Key is a small island located off the coast of Egmont Key, Florida, and is situated at the mouth of Tampa Bay. The island has a rich and varied history dating back to the early 19th century. Here is a brief overview:

**Early History (1800s)**

The island was first settled in the 1800s by pirates and smugglers who used it as a hideout and base for their illegal activities. In the early 1800s, the Spanish established a small fort on the island, which they used to control the entrance to Tampa Bay.

**Civil War and Reconstruction (1860s-1870s)**

During the American Civil War, the Union Navy occupied the island, using it as a base for patrols in the Gulf of Mexico. After the war, the island was abandoned and left to decay.

**Lighthouse and Life-Saving Station (1847-1935)**

In 1847, a lighthouse was built on Egmont Key to help guide ships into Tampa Bay. The lighthouse was an important aid to navigation, and it played a crucial role in preventing shipwrecks and maritime disasters. In 1858, a life-saving station was also established on the island to rescue sailors who were stranded or shipwrecked.

**World War II and Beyond (1940s-1950s)**

During World War II, Egmont Key was used as a training site for naval personnel, and the island's lighthouse was converted into a military communications station. After the war, the island was decommissioned and left to fall into disrepair.

**Abandonment and Restoration (1960s-1980s)**

By the 1960s, the island was largely abandoned and had become a popular spot for beachcombing and fishing. In the 1970s and 1980s, a group of local residents formed a non-profit organization to restore the island's lighthouse and life-saving station. The restoration efforts were successful, and today Egmont Key is a popular tourist destination.

**Current Status (2000s-present)**

Today, Egmont Key is a National Historic Landmark and is managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The island's lighthouse has been restored to its original condition, and visitors can explore the island's historic structures, including the lighthouse, life-saving station, and keeper's quarters. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and over 100 species of birds.

Overall, Egmont Key has a rich and varied history that spans over two centuries. From its early days as a pirate hideout to its role as a major aid to navigation during World War II, Egmont Key has played an important role in the history of Tampa Bay.

Honeymoon Island State Park, located in Dunedin, Florida, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. Here's a brief overview:

**Native American Era (1,000 BCE - 1800s CE):**
The island was originally inhabited by the Calusa and Timucua Native American tribes. These tribes were skilled hunters and gatherers, and the island's abundant wildlife and natural resources made it an ideal location for them.

**Spanish Colonization (1800s CE):**
In the early 19th century, Spanish explorers arrived on the island, and it was claimed as part of Spanish Florida. The island was used as a hunting and fishing ground for the Spanish settlers.

**American Acquisition (1821 CE):**
After the United States acquired Florida from Spain in 1821, the island became part of the newly formed state.

**Lighthouse Era (1920s CE):**
In the early 20th century, the U.S. Lighthouse Service built a lighthouse on the north end of the island to aid navigation for ships passing through the Gulf of Mexico. The lighthouse was deactivated in 1952 and is now a historic landmark within the state park.

**Tourism and Development (1940s-1960s CE):**
As tourism in Florida began to grow in popularity, Honeymoon Island became a popular destination for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts. The island's pristine beaches, scenic nature trails, and abundant wildlife made it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation.

**State Park Establishment (1974 CE):**
In 1974, the Florida Legislature designated Honeymoon Island as a state park, recognizing its natural and cultural significance. The park was officially dedicated in 1975, and it has since become one of the most popular state parks in Florida.

**Conservation Efforts (1980s-present CE):**
Over the years, conservation efforts have been implemented to protect the island's unique ecosystem and wildlife. This includes habitat restoration, invasive species management, and education programs to promote responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.

Today, Honeymoon Island State Park is a beloved destination for visitors from all over the world. With its stunning beaches, nature trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities, it's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Florida's Gulf Coast.

It's the ultimate dream, to own your own private tropical island to spend your time on. For someone, the dream may just come true, though the new owners might have more in mind than just sipping margueritas  on the beach.
 The well- known Beer Can Island in Tampa bay has gone up for sale as an NFT by its owners. If you happen to have cool $14.2 million laying around you could wind up owning your own little slice of paradise.  Payment is being accepted in bitcoin or cash.

For the past six years it has operated as a members only island where people can go to have a day in the sun, provided they can get there.

https://www.beercanisland.com/

A local Tampa Bay man has created an organization that he hopes will allow the average person to take a shot at owning a piece of the island as well. So far, Nicholas Lipidarov has found at least 500 fellow investor who have purchased potential ownership in the island. He hopes that with enough shareholders contributing, he can make an offer for the island in an effort to preserve it's current rustic charm.

https://savebeercanisland.com/