The message below is copied from the American Great Loop Cruisers’ Association forum. Shalimar Yacht Basin (see below) is located just west of Destin in Fort Walton Beach.

Mint Julep is traveling east on the ICW together with Moonstruck. Yesterday, we attempted to make transient slip reservations in Destin Harbor and learned that there are none easily available. We checked with Harborwalk Marina and Marina Cafe….neither are providing slips for transients at this point in time. We even checked with the Destin
Fisherman’s Co-Op and they do not take transients either.
We stopped at Shalimar Yacht Basin, just off the ICW at 225EHL, and they have provided great service and good wind protection. Other good marinas (like Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin) are available on Choctawhatchee Bay, but we wanted the migrating group of Loopers coming from the Rendezvous to know that marinas in the Destin Harbor are not an option. If you still want to enjoy the Destin Harbor area, it is a very good deep water anchorage.
Also, we learned yesterday that this weekend is the Apalachicola Seafood Festival, and no docks are available until Sunday night, for folks preparing to cross when/if a window opens next week.
Bob and Pam Shircliff
Gold Loopers
M/V Mint Julep

Marbella Yacht Club also offers transient slips in Destin Harbor. East Pass Realty (850) 837 4191 offer slips in Destin Harbor at East Pass Towers Marina and Watergate Towers Marina. Both of these marinas are private but will accept transients.
Blake Dupuis
M/V Marlee Ann