Gulf Shores Boat Parade

December Gulf Coast Christmas Boat Parade

	The forecasted rain didn't happen and the Gulf Shores / Orange Beach Christmas Boat Parade took place on a wonderfully balmy 70 degree December night. The boats were boarded at 3:30 at Zeke's Marina in Orange Beach and the parade started around Terry Cove and Ono Island. The 2005 Nautical Night of Lights Christmas Boat Parade was held Dec. 3 in Orange Beach. Eighteen decorated boats participated.


The parade headed on down the Intercoastal Waterway (all barge and other traffic was stopped for this) and cars and waving people lined the Intercoastal.

	Voted Best Overall, "Misty"
The 2005 parade winners are: Best Overall, "Misty" owned by Francis Smith of Orange Beach; first place, "Floridays" owned by Ken Carter of Gulf Shores; second place, "Dolphin Queen" owned by Lori DeAngelis of Orange Beach; and third place, "Marine Max" owned by Marine Max of Gulf Shores. Each boat was judged on a combination of creativity, lighting, theme, music and crew attire. Following the parade, participants and guests gathered at Lulu's at Homeport for the post-parade party and awards presentation.

The parade ended at Lulu's (Lucy, Jimmy Buffet's sister's place) under the bridge in Gulf Shores. A big crowd was already there to welcome the boats and the singing Christmas pirates and awards were presented.




	Don't miss the Christmas Parade next year ! Check with the Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce for time, date, and parade route.