October 19, 2014 – Grand Mariner Marina on Dog River

Sunset through rose colored glasses.  (Thanks Jackie on Eufloria for the photo)

October 19, 2014

NM – 48.5 miles – Tensas River Anchorage to Grand Mariner on Dog River

Total Miles: 494

LOCKS Today- 0

Total Locks – 12 (Dirty Dozen)

We got ready to leave at first light this morning and drive up river 3 miles to the boat ramp to take the pups up for a walk. There were many tugs in the area and we got a little delayed waiting on the tugs to pass.  About 30 minutes later we are back at the boat and ready to head down river at 7:50 am.  All the other boats that had anchored out for the evening were already on the river heading down.  We need to catch up and after many bends in the river we caught up to Island Time, Young at Heart and Bon Foeyage at the 14-mile railroad bridge.

Sunset last night from our bow.                         

     
Morning walk and one of many tugs today.

Once we got past the bridge we knew we were getting close to Mobile.  Your could see the city scape in the distance, seagulls dancing behind the boat and diving pelicans catching their dinner.  The closer we got the more active the harbor became. We remembered so much of what we were seeing from our first trip up this river 6-7 years ago on High Cotton.  We could smell the salt in the air as we approached Mobile Bay and began our voyage over the bay to Dog River.

Once we started crossing the bay we realized that we made it.  What an awesome feeling to realize that your dream and plan is coming true.  We both looked at each other and commented “We are at the gulf!!”  We were the last boat of 4 as we made our way across the bay. As we closed in on Dog River the dolphins started jumping and playing in front of our boats. Of course they were to quick for photos but I have a feeling I will have another opportunity.

We pulled into Grand Mariner and were greeted by Bill and Dorothy from Full Circle.  We enjoyed dinner at the restaurant and called it a day.  And what a day it was!!