We FINALLY make Florida! After crossing Mobile Bay and getting back into the ICW we make our way to Palafox Pier Marina in Pensacola. We tie up and survey our hot mess of a sailboat, then decide to blow off the chores for some food, sand, sun, and fun. Who wants to work in a place like this?

We head north through Lake Pontchartrain and into the open water of the Mississippi Sound. First it’s Cat Island for the night – then on to Dauphin Island, Alabama the next day. We get caught by a thunderstorm and foul our anchor rode when the gear shifter breaks.

It’s a long episode, but it’s jam-packed. After 17 freakin’ bridges – and a VERY long day – we find the best architecture, art, food, and music on earth for a 3-day hang. Must be New Orleans! Belle etoile!