Gulf Shores, AL to Pensacola, FL

Finally, a nice, peaceful trip down the ICW.  Bidding Lulu's adieu, we traveled East to Pensacola.  It was Saturday and there was quite a bit of traffic and recreational (read: clueless) boaters on the water.  Southern Girl's engine overheated at one point and went back to where she was anchored, but Captain Larry cleared the raw water intake of some nasty mud and we were back on our way. 

Passing the naval base, barrier island and lighthouse, we arrived at Palafox Pier in Pensacola.  It is lovely here, close to downtown, shopping, etc.  There is a good restaurant at the marina, Jaco's, and we also went to the Fish House one evening.  Bob was suffering from an acute attack of the Gout and Larry was not feeling well, so some of us went for a walk around Pensacola on Sunday. 

Crew out for a walk in Pensacola

We said goodbye to our crew and the captain and crew of Southern Girl on Monday.  They returned to Houston to plan their own cruising trips coming soon!  (Southern Girl remains at dock in Pensacola.)  We will certainly miss the friends we have made at Watergate Marina, but all have promised to visit us in FL and I'm sure we will be back in Houston one day.

Bob and I are alone really for the first time when traveling on our boat.  We have always been with another boat or had others on board.  The real adventure begins...

Pensacola Marina