We left Shalimar early in the morning with a scheduled destination of Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores, Alabama. This segment was going to be a relative short one and hopefully an enjoyable one. Since it was a Sunday, we expected to see lots of boat traffic on the water and we weren’t disappointed.
Because of the numerous “no wake zones”, we took our time as we idled by some beautiful homes located on the Intercoastal Waterway. We finally transited Pensacola Bay and re-entered the Waterway near Perdido Key Pass. Here the water turned to a much clearer quality due to the tide coming in. That was the positive aspect of the tide, but the negative was the confusing current as we passed by the narrow inlet to the bay.
As we re-entered the ICW, we passed by the Oyster House Bar and Grill located on Perdido Key which was a favorite dining experience for us when we would stay at our condominium. However, in 2004, Hurricane Ivan had other plans regarding our long term use of this condo. It was completely destroyed by the hurricane and we are still in the process of either rebuilding or selling the beachfront property.
We had our reservations at Homeport Marina which is attached to “Lulu’s”. Those of us that frequent the “Redneck Riviera” are familiar with this establishment since it is owned and operated by Lulu Buffett. You may have heard of her brother, he plays a guitar and sings songs about Margaritaville! What was truly impressive, we actually saw her on the property tending to the landscaping. You can really appreciate an owner who is involved in the everyday things of operating a business.
The approach to the Marina was somewhat challenging since I had a very strong following current. I made a quick 180 degree turn as I approached the marina and cozied up to the dock. It was important I didn’t “screw this one up” since the Marina had a web cam overlooking the dock. I certainly didn’t want to be the next “You Tube” phenomena.
Once there we paid our overnight fee and were given directions to our slip. The marina is a relatively new facility and has some very nice attributes; the main thing being the facilities are very clean and well maintained. Unfortunately our slip location wasn’t the best, since we were moored up next to a boat that was operating their generator. Shore power was available and connected to his boat, but he still insisted on using the generator and because of this we were the recipient of the noxious fumes of his exhaust. The solution was to move our boat to another slip or slide it up several feet to escape the potentially deadly gas. Of course we took the easy way out and moved up enough to clear the fumes. All is well!
After getting secure for the night, we all went to Lulu’s for some needed refreshments and supper. I promise not to write about the food on this trip but the atmosphere certainly made up for any short comings in the tastiness of the food! We actually enjoyed the marina, Lulus and staff so much, we spent and extra night there. This is one place I would recommend staying during the winter season.
Tomorrow our plan is to get to Dog River Marina and re-provision.
Till then,
Rusty and Kris
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