Great Loop: Pensacola

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November 29,2021


Pensacola, home of the Blue Angels, Joe Patti Seafood, warm weather and blue skies.  We berthed at Palafox Marina, right on the downtown waterfront.  The area had the appearance of recent redevelopment, all tastefully done in a traditional late 1800's early 1900's style.  Sprinkled through the area were refurbished original buildings, both brick and wooden.  Old warehouses, in the Seville district, had been converted into restaurants, bars, retail and residential use.  The architecture leaned towards New Orleans style with cast iron columns and adornments, and second floor balconies providing shade for those at street level.  

Our first night, we joined the couples on three other Looper boats for an excellent dinner at Jocho's.  It is located on the sea front at Palafox Marina.  Beth and I split a appetizer and an entrée so we could have key lime pie for dessert.  Always leave room for dessert!


Seville District

The next day we spend most of the day touring on our bikes.  These are an essential part of your cruising kit for two reasons.  First, they extend your range considerably.  This gives you access to sights, attractions, stores and restaurants that you might not otherwise be able to visit.  Second, you feel less guilty about enjoying the local culinary bounty knowing you will be getting exercise.  Not sure it always balances out, but we give it a good try!



Across from Joe Patti is the J.W. Renfroe Pecan Company.  If you love anything pecan, this is definitely worth a stop.  We picked up several delicacies.

Pensacola is the home of Naval Air Station Pensacola, the "Cradle of Naval Aviation".  Primary and advanced flight training is offered here and it is the home of the Blue Angels flight team.  The Naval Aviation Museum is located on base and a "must see" for aviation enthusiasts.  Unfortunately it was closed due to Covid, but we have visited in the past and enjoyed it.



You can visit Fort Pickens and Fort McRee on the barrier islands which seperate Pensacola from the gulf.  Fort Pickens is now a national park and it is possible to drive to it.  You can visit the old coast artillery batteries which date to the Civil War.  Fort McRee is only accessible by boat and very little remains.


Entrance to underground bunkers at Fort McRee


Inside the bunkers 



The Pensacola lighthouse has been keeping mariners safe since 1859.  It remains in active service and is located on the grounds of NAS Pensacola.



Location: Pensacola, FL, USA

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