ssloop: The Panhandle-Gulf Crossing

The Panhandle! Dolphins! Need we say more?

We decided to slow down our pace to reward ourselves for accomplishing the rivers once again. The Panhandle continues to be a favorite area for us so it was great to take the time to take in the beauty of the beaches and pretty waters. We combined our time in fantastic anchorages as well as marinas located near shopping and restaurants.

After crossing Mobile Bay we spent 2 nights at the upscale Wharf Marina in Orange Beach, AL. Then on to our favorite Panhandle anchorage at Ft McRee located 3 miles from NAS Pensacola Naval Air Base - home base for the Blue Angels. It’s a thrill to witness them practicing over the anchorage. Our other stops included Destin, Panama City Beach, Apalachicola and Carrabelle. From Mobile Bay to Carrabelle we traveled 290 miles.

We planned our arrival into Carrabelle on Thursday to catch a forecasted weather window to cross the Gulf of Mexico on Friday. By the time we reached Carrabelle that weather window had evaporated. Next good weather for crossing showed for Monday. We had never stayed in Carrabelle before, so we spent 3 days enjoying the town. To position ourselves for the crossing we anchored out Sunday night just off St George Island. We were welcomed by a fabulous dolphin show. At the crack of dawn, we headed out for 163 mile crossing from St George Island to Tarpon Springs. The first half was rougher than we expected or cared for, but by the 2nd half, the seas had laid down and the crew could relax a little. For 7 of the 9 hours, we were incommunicado….no cell service, no other boats, no land in sight. Always thankful when we arrive at the other side.

ALONG THE WAY:

Sunny, sunny weather until we reached Carrabelle

Zero locks!

6 nights in marinas

6 nights on anchor

Blue Angel fly overs - a dozen

Sharks - 1

Dolphins - too many to count