Day 32 - Take Me On A Sea Cruise

Departure: Moss Point, MS      Finish:  Gulf Shores, AL  

Distance:    71.1 miles

Elevation gain:  1,212 feet 

Winds: From the South - 8 mph. 

Weather:  Fog early. Then, high clouds. 58 degrees at departure. 75 degrees at arrival.

On bike duration:   4 hrs, 59 minutes. 

Average speed: 14.2 mph

Total Accumulated Miles:  2,446.1

We departed this morning in a calm, foggy mist. When the fog lifted we had mild headwinds the rest of the day. Just 10 miles into the day, we crossed the state line to Alabama.

As we crossed a non-descript bridge approaching Dauphin Island, I saw this fleet of shrimp trawlers off to the right. Fairly proud and majestic.

The group worked well together, taking turns on the front. We went over several high bridges that made up most of our 1,200’ elevation gain. I got another flat tire, just before getting on the Dauphin Island Bridge. We had lunch as we waited for the ferry to take us over to Ft. Morgan. 

Months ago, I saw that today’s route would include a five mile ferry ride. My first thought was that a ferry would be cheating. We should ride the whole way. Now that we’re here, I realize two things: 1.) The ferry ride was a fun and memorable experience; and 2.) We would have added 70 miles - another day - to go around to the Florida Panhandle by land. So, I am quite happy with the route. Plus I got some good photos.

We travelled most of the last 10 miles on a tree-lined bike path in Gulf Shores. It was a relaxing way to end the day.

We are lodging in the Comfort Inn & Suites for two nights. It’s not on the beach. It’s a block away. But I do have a veranda on my 4th floor room. Tomorrow is the last rest day of the entire tour. We have only 500 miles remaining. I plan to spend some of the day with my feet up on the railing of the balcony.