Cruising America's Great Loop 2016

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Train

Orange Beach, United States ‐ Dec 13, 2016

Cruised 43.4 miles over 5.75 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi 73. Skies partly cloudy. Winds 11 mph from the S-SW. 0915 Shoved off from dock in heavy fog 1140 First dolphin sighting 1240 Entered GIWW, marker G141 1426 Docked and Dined at LULU’s 1530 Shoved off from LUU’s 1600 Docked at The Wharf The Coast Guard said the fog would lift at 0900 so we left the dock at 0915 when it appeared that the fog would lift. However, the fog stayed all the way until about 1300 [...]
. Very disorienting when you cannot see anything more than a quarter mile from the boat. By the time we reached the GIWW, the fog was slowly lifting. By the time we turned east and got closer to land the fog finally gave way to a cloudy late afternoon.

Fog, Fog, Fog, and more Fog

Fog, Fog, Fog, and more Fog
Fairhope ‐ Dec 11, 2016

Cruised 12 miles over 2 hours. Weather: 39 degrees at 0700. Hi 63. Skies clear. Winds 8 mph from the east. 1022 Shoved off of the dock as tide was rising 1026 Passed under Dog River Bridge 1105 Crossed Main Ship Channel 1220 Docked at Fairhope Municiple Marina Amazing how much wider the narrow channel looked in calm water. Made an easy and smooth crossing of Mobile Bay. Will stay at Fairhope a few days before heading to Orange Beach.
Mobile ‐ Dec 8, 2016

Cruised 71 miles over 8 hours. Today’s weather: 46 degrees at 0700. Hi 54. Skies partly cloudy. Winds 13 mph from the N. 0730 53, Weighed anchor 0740 52, Passed up bound tow (1x2), Gamberella 0828 45, At junction with the Alabama River, now on the Mobile River 0915 38, Passed up bound tow (1x2) 0936 35, Passed up bound tow (2x3), American Dream 1056 21, Passed under I-65 Bridge 1105 19, Over took down bound tow (3x3), Huckabee 1144 14, Passed under 14-mile RR Bridge 1215 8, Passed [...]
up bound tow (3x3), American Courage 1248 3, Passed under US HWY 90/98 Bridge 1300 2, Passed up bound tow (2x3), T.H. Kelly 1311 0, End of Mobile River, Entered Mobile Bay, crossed over the I-10 tunnel 1329 Red 78, Passes up bound tow (2x1), Tommies Terminal 1500 Red 16, Passed under Dog River HWY 163 Bridge 1530 Docked at Dog River Marina The run today was exciting. The further south we ran the more industrial the area became. When we reached Mobile, the waterfront was a buzz of activity. Saw two bald eagles today and the first of many Brown Pelicans. The run across the bay was exciting with 13 mph winds and 3-5 foot waves.

That Had to Hurt

That Had to Hurt
Malcolm ‐ Dec 7, 2016

Cruised 66 miles over 7.75 hours. Today’s weather: 49 degrees at 0700. Hi 60. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 5 mph from the N-NW. 0745 119, Shoved off dock 0811 117, Secured in Cofffeeville Lock 0822 117, Cleared Lock, down 30 feet, now back in tidal waters, 5 feet above sea level, 125 miles from the Gulf. 0835 115, Passed under US HWY 84 Bridge 1056 93, Passed under US HWY 43 Bridge 1115 90, Passed under RR Bridge 1440 60, Passed up bound tow (1x2), Devall 1530 53, Anchored Alabama Ri [...]
ver Cut-off Got an early start to ensure passage thru the lock, make 66 miles, and anchor before dark. Sunset was at 1645. Now enjoying a silent night on the hook.
Silas ‐ Dec 6, 2016

Cruised 26 miles over 3 hours. Today’s weather: 50 degrees at 0700. Hi 60. Skies partly cloudy. Winds 10 mph from the W. 0730 145, Started to weigh anchor 0930 145, Weighed both the bow and stern anchor, entered main channel on the sailing line 1230 119, Docked at Bobby’s Fish Camp Well the two anchors held us in the creek very well. Only problem was we had great difficulty getting the stern anchor out of the mud. After two hours and many attempts, we finally got the stern anchor u [...]
p and headed south. I know someone who will be very sore in the morning after wrestling the anchor for so long.
Toxey ‐ Dec 5, 2016

Cruised 71 miles over 8.5 hours. Today’s weather: 52 degrees at 0700. Hi 58. Skies cloudy. Rain all day. Winds 4 mph from the NE. 0744 216, Shoved off from dock, entered main channel 0806 213, Entered Demopolis Lock 0818 213, Cleared Demopolis Lock, Down 35 feet 0825 212, Passed up bound tow about to enter the lock, (2x2), Tim Parker 0922 204, Passed under US HWY 80 Bridge 1034 193, Passed up bound tow (3x3) Diane Siegal 1234 175, Passed up bound tow (3x3-2), Terah Huckabee 1244 1 [...]
73, Passed under RR Bridge and State HWY 114 Bridge 1342 165, Passed under state HWY 10 Bridge 1432 158, Passed up bound tow (3x3-2) Megan 1450 155, Passed up bound (3x3-2) Charles Hague 1600 145, Arrived Bashi Creek 1615 145, Dropped both a stern and bow anchor Interesting day spent cruising in the cool rain. Had a few hours with no rain, but most of the day was spent in heavy showers. The rain began to let up a little as we approached the creek to anchor. About the time we had both anchors set it stopped raining. About sums up how the day has gone.
Demopolis ‐ Dec 2, 2016

Cruised 52 miles over 6.25 hours. Today’s weather: 35 degrees at 0700. Hi 63. Skies clear. Winds 6 mph from the NE. 0835 266+1, Weighed anchor 0844 265, Back in main channel on sailing line 0950 253, Passed under I-20 HWY Bridge 1054 248, Passed under RR Bridge and US HWY 11 Bridge 1056 247, Overtook down bound tow (3x3) Kiefer Bailey 1332 225, Halfway point to Mobile, Alabama from Tennessee River 1430 217, End of Tenn-Tom Waterway, Start Black Warrior- Tom Bigbee Waterway 1445 216 [...]
+1, Docked at Kingfisher Bay Marina Good run today after the fog cleared. The river section is very remote, not many homes in this section at all. Did cross under I-20 today and entered the Black Warrior section of waterway. Four or five days and we should be back in saltwater.

End of the Tenn-Tom Waterway

End of the Tenn-Tom Waterway
Gainesville ‐ Dec 1, 2016

Cruised 43 miles over 5.5 hours. Today’s weather: 35 degrees at 0700. Hi 58. Skies clear. Winds 6 mph from the NW. 0952 307 +1, Shoved off from dock 0956 307, Back In main channel on sailing line 1004 306.5, Entered Bevill Lock 1020 306.5, Cleared Lock, down 27 feet 1150 293, Passed under State HWY 17 Bridge 1400 273, Passed a down bound tow (3x3), Miss Lauren Elizabeth 1442 267, Passed under State HWY 39 Bridge, arrived at Heflin Lock 1455 267, Entered Lock 1505 267, Exited Lock, [...]
down 32 feet 1523 267+1, Dropped anchor in Ox Bow Creek Another great run. We had originally planned to stop above the Heflin Lock but because we were making good time we decided to go thru the Heflin Lock. Only problem was we passed a tow about 6 miles from the Lock. We speed up hoping that the Lock Master would lock us thru before the tow arrived. When the lock master saw us coming, he radioed the tow and requested his ETA. The tow responded that he was 45 minutes from the lock. The lock master put us thru the lock. Love it when a good plan comes together.
Pickensville ‐ Nov 30, 2016

Cruised 30 miles over 4 hours. Today’s weather: 60 degrees at 0700. Hi 64. Skies clear. Winds 9-15 mph from the North, changing to N-NW. 0855 355 +1, Shoved off from dock 0905 335, Back In main channel on sailing line, arrived at Stennis Lock 0923 335, Secured in Lock 0935 335, Cleared Lock, down 25 feet 0954 332, Passed under US HWY 82 Bridge 1000 331, Passed under RR Bridge 1042 3225, Passed up bound tow (1x2), Jack Binion 1220 310, Entered Alabama 1300 307 +1, Docked at Pirate [...]
Cove Marina With the overnight rains the river is flowing and giving us a 1 knot push. On the down side, there is lots of floating debris in the water this morning. Only going 30 miles today so we can go walk to a Tenn-Tom Visitor Center and US Snagboat Montgomery.
Columbus ‐ Nov 19, 2016

Cruised 41 miles over 6.5 hours. Today’s weather: 41 degrees at 0700. Hi 57. Skies clear. Winds 8-13 mph from the North. 0835 376.5, Shoved off from dock 0840 376.5, Back in main channel, on the sailing run 0853 376, Entered Wilkins Lock 0910 376, Cleared lock, down 25 feet 0950 371, Secured in Amory Lock 1005 371, Cleared lock, down 30 feet 1010 370, Passed up bound tow, passed under HWY 6 bridge, and Burlington Norther Santa Fe RR Bridge 1024 368, Passed under US HWY 278 Bridge [...]
1040 366, Canal Section joined the actual Tombigbee River 1117 362, Passed up bound tow 1145 357.5, Passed up bound tow, Entered Aberdeen Lock 1245 375.5, Cleared lock, passed under 2 bridges, passed one up bound tow 1420 339, Passed under state HWY 50 Bridge 1505 335, Docked at Columbia Marina Today’s run got off to a rough start. There were strong winds pinning the boat up against the dock. Had to get help from a local boater to push us off the dock while we inched away. Then the day improved as we had great FOG as we passed thru the three locks. The first two locks were waiting with gates open upon our arrival. The third lock had a tow leaving as we arrived. Once he cleared the lock, we entered and were dropped down. As we exited the lock there was a tow waiting to come in the lock. Perfect timing all day long. Claudia also piloted the boat out of all three locks today. She did a good job.

Headed South on the Tenn-Tom

Headed South on the Tenn-Tom
Smithville ‐ Nov 18, 2016

Cruised 38 miles over 6.75 hours. Today’s weather: 52 degrees at 0700. Hi 80. Skies clear. Winds 9 mph from the S-SW. 0915 412 +2, Shoved off from dock 0935 Arrived at Whitten Lock, in main channel on the sailing line 0940 412, Secured in Lock 0958 412, Cleared Lock, down 73 feet, entered the ‘Canal’ section of the Tenn-Tom 0959 411.5, Passed under HWY 4 bridge 1007 410.5, Passed under Natchez Trace PKWY Bridge 1036 406.7, Arrived at Montgomery Lock 1056 406.7, Secured in the L [...]
ock 1111 406.7, Cleared the Montgomery Lock, down 30 feet 1210 398.4, Arrived at the Rankin Lock 1229 398.4, Passed up bound tow (1x2) Jackson III, leaving the lock 1237 398.4, Secured in the Lock 1250 398.4, Cleared the Lock, down 30 feet 1353 391, Arrived at the Fulton Lock 1355 391, Secured in the Lock 1405 391, Cleared the Lock, down 24 feet 1415 389.5, Passed under US HWY 78 Bridge 1601 376.5, Docked at Smithville Marina We had great weather and beautiful run today. Also, continued to have good favor with the locks today. Very little waiting. Two locks were actually open and waiting for us to enter when we arrived. We are now sitting 245 feet above sea level. A little over a 500 feet drop since we were at the Smokey Mountains.
Bay Springs Marina ‐ Nov 17, 2016

Cruised 41 miles over 5.25 hours. Today’s weather: 51 degrees at 0700. Hi 78. Skies clear. Winds 7 mph from the south. 0908 449 +2, Shoved off from dock 0920 448.7, On the Tenn-Tom Waterway in Pickwick Lake 1003 443.7, Passed under state HWY 25 Bridge, entered the Divide Cut 1053 438, Over took a down bound tow (3x3) 1055 436, Passed under Norfolk Southern RR Bridge 1058 435, Passed under US HWY 72 Bridge 1218 425, Passed under Illinois Central RR Bridge 1241 422, Passed under sta [...]
te HWY 30 Bridge 1305 419, Entered Bat Springs Lake 1319 417, Over took Diane B. Siegal tow hauling coal to Mobile (3x3) 1420 412 +2, Docked at Bay Springs Marina First full day on the Tenn-Tom Waterway. We cruised the Divide Cut today which is the canal that was cut from the Tennessee River to the Tombigbee River. The canal was opened for business in 1985.
Iuka ‐ Nov 15, 2016

Cruised 44 miles over 5 hours. Today’s weather: 42 degrees at 0700. Hi 71. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds light from SW changing to 6 mph from W. 0930 256, Shoved off from dock, back in main channel, on sailing line 1013 250, Passed up bound tow (1x2), Joseph Hamilton 1148 237, Passed under Natchez Trace Parkway 1306 225, Entered Mississippi 1415 215/450, Exited Tennessee River onto Tenn-Tom Waterway 1430 449 +2, Docked at Aqua Yacht Harbor Florence turned out to be an interesting stop [...]
that we need to return and spend more time sight-seeing. Meet an interesting couple who spent 16 years building their own boat. The man called it his weekend project. They have spent the last three years cruising the Ohio River each summer. Bob and Kellie drove over and we went to dinner and had a wonderful time.
Florence ‐ Nov 14, 2016

Cruised 75 miles over 11.75 hours. Today’s weather: 39 degrees at 0700. Hi 68. Skies clear. Winds 6 mph from W. 0845 334+1, Shoved off from dock 0853 334, Back in main channel on sailing line 0855 334, Passed under State HWY 237 Bridge 1129 310, Passed under I-65 Bridge 1136 309, Passed up bound tow (3x4) Harley Hall 1200 305, Passed under HWY Bridge; however, RR Bridge is currently closed due to maintenance. Since vertical clearance is only 8 feet, we will have to wait for work to [...]
complete. 1330 305, Maintenance truck just drove off of the RR Bridge, Bridge Tender said to Come on or wait for three trains to pass 1340 305, Passed under RR Bridge after he lifted the bridge 1653 275, Arrived at Joe Wheeler Lock 1714 275, Secured in Lock 1730 275, Cleared Lock, down 45 feet, passed under HWY Bridge 1809 269, Passed up bound tow in the dark (3x5) 1915 260, Arrived Wilson Lock 1941 260, Secured in Lock 2005 260, Cleared lock, down 96 feet, Passed under 3 bridges on the way to Marina 2030 256, Docked at Florence Harbor Marina The day started out with a plan to anchor in Joe Wheeler Lake just above the dam. However, the delay at the RR Bridge altered our plans. We decided that we would go ahead and cruise into the night because of the light of the full moon. First thought was to only go through the Joe Wheeler Lock and then anchor. After clearing the lock, we decided to keep going and get thru the Wilson lock also. After we cleared the Wilson Lock it was a short 3 miles to a marina. We pulled in and hooked up for the night. Was a beautiful cruise with the moon high in the sky.
Huntsville ‐ Nov 12, 2016

Cruised 26 miles over 4 hours. Today’s weather: 54 degrees at 0700. Hi 67. Skies clear. Winds 10 mph from N-NE. 0853 358+1, Shoved off from dock 0905 358, Back in main channel, on sailing line 1005 349, Arrived Guntersville Lock 1027 349, Entered Lock 1045 349, Clear of lock, down 40 feet, entered Joe Wheeler Lake 1245 334+1, Docked at Ditto Landing Marina Good cruise today. Saw two Bald Eagles in flight. One was soaring high up in the air. The other flew right in front of the bo [...]
at as it crossed the river. Got stalled at the lock for a bit as a pleasure craft was already locking down when we arrived. Still made it thru the lock in less than an hour which was good. Made a short day of it to rest up a bit. Been a long hard week with the trip to Texas and back.

Headed West on Tennessee River

Headed West on Tennessee River
Guntersville ‐ Nov 11, 2016

Cruised 65 miles over 8 hours. Today’s weather: 37 degrees at 0700. Hi 68. Skies mostly clear. Winds 5 mph from NW, changing to 6 mph from N-NW. 0800 Shoved off from dock (+1 miles to channel) 0820 425, Secured in Nickajack Lock 0833 425, Cleared lock, 37 feet down 0912 418, Passed under state HWY 156 bridge 0925 416, Entered Alabama 0938 414, Passed under RR bridge 0958 412, Passed up bound tow (3x3+2), W. Hank 1054 403, Passed under state HWY 117 bridge 1249 386, Passed under st [...]
ate HWY 35 bridge 1600 358 +1, Docked at Guntersville free dock With the cold weather setting in, we are trying to make miles and get south to warmer weather. However, the shorter days will make this a little more difficult since the sun is setting at 1645.
Jasper ‐ Nov 10, 2016

Cruised 55 miles over 7.75 hours. Today’s weather: 44 degrees at 0700. Hi 67. Skies clear. Winds 8 mph from N-NW 0940 Shoved off from dock (+2 miles to channel) 0959 478, Back in main channel, on sailing line 1035 472, Arrived at Chickamauga Lock 1130 471, Secured in lock, down 44 feet 1148 471, Cleared lock with Bear Cat, passed under 2 bridges 1158 470, Passed under Robinson HWY Bridge 1229 465, Passed under Veterans Memorial Bridge 1229 464.5, Passed under Walnut St Pedestrian B [...]
ridge 1232 464, Passed under Chief John Ross Draw Bridge 1235 463.5, Passed under P.R. Oligant HWY Bridge 1610 432, Exited Grand Canyon of Tennessee 1630 430, Passed under US HWY 41 Bridge 1635 429, Passed under I-24 Bridge 1720 426, Docked at Nickajack Boat Ramp Another fine day on the water. Little cooler than we would like but that is ok. Still warm in the flybridge. Dis spot a Bald Eagle after we got tied up at the dock.
Harrison ‐ Nov 5, 2016

Cruised 29 miles over 3.75 hours. Weather: 45 at 0700. Hi 71. Skies clear. Winds light from the North. 0945 Shoved off from dock. (+1) 0955 504, Back in main channel, on sailing line 1030 499, Passed under state HWY 60 Bridge 1330 477 +1, Docked at Island Cove Marina Has hoped to get a rental car in Dayton, but the place is closed on Saturday and Sunday. Opted to head to Chattanooga, but the river is closed due to a regatta. Pulled into this marina because it is only about 15 m [...]
inutes to the metro airport where we will be able to get a car. Headed back to Texas to attend Aunt Pat's funeral.
Dayton ‐ Nov 4, 2016

Cruised 72 miles over 8.75 hours. Today’s weather: 54 degrees at 0700. Hi 84. Skies clear. Winds 9 mph from N-NW 0845 576, Weighed anchor 0848 576, Back in main channel on the sailing line 0952 568, Passed under Decatur-Kingston Bridge 1115 556, Took Thief Neck Cut-off (-6 miles) to mile 550 1140 547, Passed up bound tow (1x1) 1145 547, Took Half Moon Cut-off (-4 miles) to mile 543 1220 542, Took Iron Hill Cut-off (-6 miles) to mile 536 1311 532, Rescued Jordon from the River. Hi [...]
s red kayak had partially sunk and he was trying to swim to an island that was 3/4 of a mile away. 1410 531, Docked at abandoned Watts Bar Resort Dock because lock is closed until 1600 1610 531, Shoved off from dock 1625 530, Secured in lock 1644 530, Cleared lock, down 60 feet 1801 518, Passed under state HWY 30 Bridge 1930 504 +1, Safety landed at dock in the dark What a strange day. Awoke to the news that Aunt Pat had died overnite. Decided to make a long day of it so that we could get to a marina with a rental car agency nearby. Took several short cuts to save some time. When we were within 3 miles of the lock we called the lock to find out that there were divers in the water and the lock was closed until 1600. While slowing down to figure out where to go to wait for three hours, Claudia noticed a red kayak in distress. We turned the boat around to see if we could help. By the time we got there the young man was in some serious trouble. We got him out of the water and then went and saved the kayak. We eventually made it through the lock and then had to travel in the dark for a bit to make the marina.

Rescue at Sea

Rescue at Sea
Kingston ‐ Nov 3, 2016

Cruised 56 miles over 7 hours. Today’s weather: 53 degrees at 0700. Hi 80. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 5 mph from S-SW. 0904 LTR 29, Weighed anchor 1019 LTR 19, Passed under 411 HWY Bridge 1023 LTR 18, Passed under RR Bridge 1227 0/603, Passed under bridge under construction, entered the Tennessee River 1232 602, Arrived at the Fort Loudon Lock 1245 602, Secured in lock 1307 602, Cleared lock, down 70 feet 1420 592, Passed under HWY 11 Bridge 1422 591, Passed under RR Bridge 1505 [...]
585, Passed under I-75 Bridge 1610 576, Dropped anchor in Painted Rock Cove The day was so good that we decided to skip going back to Ft Loudon Marina and go on through the lock. We then cruised another 25 miles before dropping the anchor. Did not even see another boat on the water today. That is unusual. Especially since the weather was perfect for a day on the water.
Tallassee ‐ Nov 2, 2016

Cruised 18 miles over 2.25 hours. Today’s weather: 54 degrees at 0700. Hi 84. Skies clear. Light winds. 0956 8, Weighed anchor from Tellico River 1038 1, Passed under HWY 360 Bridge 1048 0/19, Left the Tellico River and re-entered Little Tennessee River 1210 29, Dropped anchor in Little Tennessee River We cruised over to the end of navigable waters on the Tennessee River and dropped the anchor. We are a little closer to the mountains and there are more mountains in view. Another bea [...]
utiful place to spend the day.
Ball Play ‐ Nov 1, 2016

Cruised 6 miles in just under 1 hour. Weather - 54 degrees at 0700. Hi 84. Skies clear. Winds 10 mph from S-SW. 0950 Shoved off from Dock 0958 3, Back in main channel on sailing line 1040 8, End of navigation in Tellico River, dropped anchor.
Vonore ‐ Oct 31, 2016

Cruised 24 miles over 3 hours. Today’s weather: 54 degrees at 0700. Hi 83. Skies partly cloudy. Winds 5 mph from the SW changing to 6 mph from S-SW. 0945 Shoved off from dock and headed to main channel (+1) 0955 602, Entered main channel of Tennessee River 1003 603/0, Passed under HWY 321 Bridge, entered Little Tennessee River 1219 19, Passed under RR Bridge 1223 19.2/0, Passed under HWY Bridge, turned to starboard and entered Tellico River 1235 1, Passed under HWY Bridge 1245 2, Le [...]
ft main channel to enter cove at Sequoyah Birthplace Museum (+1), docked at museum free dock Short cruise today to allow some land exploring. Visited the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum to learn more about the Cherokee culture. Then walked 1.5 miles to Fort Loudoun State Park. Returned to the boat after a fun day of shore excursions. The museum allowed us to stay on the dock so we will sit here for the night and move to the end of navigable waters on the Tellico River in the morning.
Lenoir City ‐ Oct 29, 2016

Cruised 56 miles over 7 hours. Today’s weather: 50 degrees at 0700. Hi 83. Skies clear. Winds 5 mph from the S-SW. 0915 Weighed anchor traveled 1 mile to the main channel 0920 548, Back in main channel 0935 550, Taking Thief Neck Cut, saves ~ 6 miles 0946 556, Back in main channel 1113 568, Passed under Decatur /Kingston HWY Bridge 1320 585, Passed under I 75 Bridge 1409 591, Passed under RR Bridge, just as we passed under the bridge a train came over the bridge 1411 592, Passed un [...]
der US HWY 11 Bridge 1530 602, Arrived at Ft Loudoun Lock, gate open on arrival 1536 602, Secured in Lock 1606 602, Cleared lock, up 60 feet 1644 602 +1, Landed at Ft Loudoun Marina after taking on fuel and pumping out. This was another great day on the water. The scenery continues to dazzle as we seem to be in peak fall foliage color change. Watts Bar Lake is also spectacular. The lake has many islands that break the lake up into a never-ending oasis.

The Mountains Are Calling

The Mountains Are Calling
Rockwood ‐ Oct 28, 2016

Cruised 42 miles over 6 hours. Today’s weather: 54 degrees at 0700. Hi 86. Skies clear. Winds light from the North. 0915 Shoved off from dock 0923 504.5, Back in main channel on the sailing line 1111 518, Passed under state HWY 30 Bridge 1245 530, Arrived, Entered Watts Bar Lock 1302 530, Cleared Watts Bar Lock, up 60 feet 1320 532, Passed down bound tow (1x3) Bear Cat 1420 543, Taking Half Moon Cut-off to save 4 miles 1450 547, Rejoined main channel 1506 548, Dropped anchor in Pa [...]
lmer Light Cove Got off to a light foggy morning. However, at mile 506 we ran into heavy fog. Could hardly see. We ran close to shore at idle speed for about 4 miles till the sun finally burned thru the fog. At mile 508, we did see a Bald Eagle nest with the owner standing and watching us cruise by. The wind stayed calm all day which led to glass like water conditions. Great cruise today.
Dayton ‐ Oct 27, 2016

Cruised 47 miles over 6.25 hours. Today’s weather: 64 degrees at 0700. Hi 77. Skies cloudy. Winds 6 mph from the S, changing to 7 mph from the W-SW. 0925 Shoved off from dock 0927 464, Returned to main channel, passed under Walnut Street Bridge 0928 464.5, Passed under Veterans Memorial Bridge 0936 465, Passed down bound tow (1x1) Carol K 1008 469, Passed under bridge 1019 471, Passed under RR Bridge, arrived at lock 1025 471, Secured in lock 1045 471, Cleared Chickamauga Lock, up [...]
46 feet, Entered Lake Chickamauga 1409 499, Passed under state HWY 60 Bridge 1412 499.5, Left main channel to Hiwassee River 1512 501.3, Back in main channel after six-mile detour 1545 504.5 +1, Docked at Blue Water Resort Original plan was to anchor in the Hiwassee River tonight. After finding the water level too low in three different anchorages, we decided to go to a marina just up the river. Looks like the winter draw down of this area has lowered the water level a least 6 feet. Makes getting into those 10 foot deep anchorages near impossible in Still Waters II.
Chattanooga ‐ Oct 24, 2016

Cruised 40 miles over 4.75 hours. Today’s weather: 47 degrees at 0700. Hi 78. Skies clear. Winds 6 mph from the N-NW. 0815 Weighed anchor travelled 2 miles to get back in main channel 0820 427, Entered main channel 0836 429, Passed under I-24 Bridge 0840 430, Passed under US HWY 41 Bridge 0900 432, Entered ‘Grand Canyon of the Tennessee’ 1030 445, Passed down bound tow (2x4), Harley Hal 1120/1220 451.2, Entered Eastern Time Zone 1250 455, Passed down bound tow (1x1) Carol K 13 [...]
52 463.5, Passed under HWY 58 Bridge 1356 464, Passed under Market Street Draw Bridge 1405 464 +1, Docked at the Bluffs This had to be one of the best cruising days that we had on the entire loop. The scenery was just out of this world. The bluffs and mountains closed in on the river and rose 1,000 feet above the water. Then the fall foliage colors continued to dazzle. Then at the end of the day we enjoyed a 5 Guys Burger and Fries.
Little Cedar Mountain Cove ‐ Oct 23, 2016

Cruised 71 miles over 9.25 hours. Today’s weather: 45 degrees at 0700. Hi 76. Skies clear. Winds 6 mph from the SW. 0755 358, Shoved off from dock and headed to main channel (2 miles) 0810 359, Back in main channel 1123 386, Passed under 2 HWY Bridges, state HWY 35 and Comer 1332 403, Passed under state HWY 113 Bridge 1502 414, Passed under RR Bridge 1518 416.5, Entered Tennessee 1536 418.5, Passed under state HWY 156 bridge 1625 424, Arrived at Nickajack Lock 1635 424, Secured in [...]
lock, gate closed, up 40 feet 1645 424, Cleared lock 1715 427 +1, Dropped anchor in Little Cedar Mountain Cove Got an early start with hopes of making the Nickajack Lock before dark. Turned out to be a great cruise. The winds were hardly even providing a slight breeze, so the water was extremely calm. Except when we passed another boat. The fall foliage colors continue to paint the landscape in yellow, orange, and an occasional red. We made the lock and then tried to dock at a park. The docks were full so we went around the next bend and anchored in Cedar Mountain Cove.
Guntersville ‐ Oct 22, 2016

Cruised 55 miles over 7 hours. Today’s weather: 49 degrees at 0700. Hi 68. Skies clear. Winds 8 mph from the N-NW. 0845 304, Shoved off from dock and headed to main channel (+1 mile) 0905 305, Passed under Southern RR Bridge and a HWY Bridge. Had to request RR bridge to open and only waited a few minutes. 0942 309.5, Passed under I-65 HWY Bridge 1144 326, Halfway point on the Tennessee River. From Paducah, KY to just past Knoxville, TN, the navigable portion of the river is 652 miles [...]
1240 333, Passed under 2 bridges, HWY 231 and Heart of Dixie HWY Bridge 1430 349, Arrived Guntersville Lock 1450 349, Entered lock 1512 349, Cleared lock, up 40 feet, entered Guntersville Lake 1614 358, Passed under 2 HWY Bridges 1630 358 +1, Left main channel to dock at municipal free dock Got off to a rough start today. While trying to get to the main channel ran up on a 4 foot sand/mud bar. Looks to be no damage and the boat ran well. Did take a little finesse to wiggle the boat of and out of the mud. Thank goodness we were only at idle speed waiting for the engines to completely warm up. After that we had an enjoyable day on the water. The fall colors are getting better every day. The little bit in Guntersville Lake were especially breath taking.

Fall Foliage Spectacular

Fall Foliage Spectacular
Decatur ‐ Oct 21, 2016

Cruised 41 miles over 4.25 hours. Today’s weather: 54 degrees at 0700. Hi 64. Skies mostly clear. Winds 13 mph from the N-NW. 0837 Weighed anchor, headed to main channel (2 miles) 0849 Mile 266, Entered main Channel on Tennessee River 0914 271, Passed 12 looper boats down bound from fall rendezvous 0945 275, Arrived Joe Wheeler Lock, tow in progress of loading. Lockmaster said it would be about two hours before we could go through. Lockmaster allowed us to tie to the auxiliary lock w [...]
all while we waited. 1100 275, LyreLynn arrived at the lock and rafter off of us while we waited on lock 1251 275, Cleared lock, up 48 feet, entered Wheeler Lake on Tennessee River 1340 283, Passed down bound tow (1x1) 1415 288, Over took up bound tow that stalled us at the lock (2x5) Harley 1600 204, Docked at Decatur free dock, +1 The wind was the issue today. Lucky for us it was blowing from the northwest which was on our stern most of the day so we had following seas. We pulled into a boat RAMP AREA IN Decatur which has about a two hundred foot face dock that we can tie to for the night. We met a new looper boat, Irish Lady Too today.
Six Mile Creek ‐ Oct 20, 2016

Cruised 55 miles over 8 hours. Today’s weather: 74 degrees at 0700. Hi 77. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 7 mph from the S-SW changing to 11 mph from NW. 0945 Shoved off from dock, headed to Grand Harbor fuel dock 1027 Shoved off from fuel dock, headed back to Tennessee River 1034 Mile 215, Entered Tennessee River 1045 215.5, Passed a down bound tow (3X4+1), Cynthia 1147 225, Entered Alabama 1308 236, Passed under Natchez Trace Parkway 1538 256, Passed under US HWY 72 Bridge 1540 257, [...]
Passed down bound chemical tow (1x2), Baffin Bay 1542 258, Passed under Patton Island Bridge 1600 259, Arrived at Wilson Lock 1641 259, Cleared Wilson Lock, up 93 feet 1745 265 +3, Dropped anchor in Six Mile Creek The port engine ran well following repairs. Stopped to top both tanks off and get the .25 looper discount on fuel at Grand Harbor Marina. Got in a thunderstorm about mid-day and had a lightening strike less than a quarter mile from the boat. The rains poured pretty heavy for about five miles and then passed on by us. The Wilson Lock was very impressive with the 93 foot lift. Actually one of the faster locks, especially considering the size.
Iuka ‐ Oct 18, 2016

Cruised 25 miles over 3.5 hours. Today’s weather: 69 degrees at 0700. Hi 88. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 2-11 mph from the SSW. 0750 mile 192+ 1, Weighed anchor 0756 192, Entered main channel on Tennessee River 0903 200, Over took an up bound tow hauling coal (3x4), Eva Kelly 1000 206.5, Arrived Pickwick Lock, went right in 1035 206.5, Cleared lock after 55 foot lift 1140 215.2, Entered Tenn-Tom Water Way at mile 450.7 1150 449+1, Left Tenn-Tom and landed at Aqua Yacht Harbor Ran on [...]
one engine again today. Getting into the lock and tied up was a bit tricky but we managed to get on the bollard. Then we cruised on to the marina. Docking was also a challenge. Especially with the wind blowing us off the face dock. Claudia got a line over and the dock hand pulled us into the dock. The Service Manager sent a guy down to look at the port engine and he agrees that the pump has gone out and leaking. They are trying to locate a pump and develop a repair estimate. So we are not sure how long we will be here yet.
Wolf Island ‐ Oct 17, 2016

Cruised 43 miles over 6 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi 86. Skies mostly clear. Winds 4-9 mph from the S. 0755 mile 150 + 1, Weighed anchor 0805 150, Entered main channel in Tennessee River 0830 153, Port Main Engine was over heating, ~ 210, dropped anchor to investigate. 0915 153, Back underway on STBD engine only. Looks like the port engine water pump is leaking. 1021 162, Passed under HWY 114 Bridge 1200 173, Over took an up bound tow (3x4), H. B. Stewart 1403 190 [...]
, Passed under US HWY 64 Bridge 1430 192 +1, Dropped anchor Wolf Island (port channel) After starting the engine, the temperature began to behave erratic as the engine warmed up. The engine temperature did not level out at 175 degrees, but kept climbing to 210. Turned the engine off to troubleshoot. Looks like the coolant pump has gone bad. Ran on one engine today. The boat handles much different with only one engine. On a brighter note, the scenery along the river continues to get better everyday.
Clifton ‐ Oct 16, 2016

Cruised 53miles over 6.75 hours. Today’s weather: 60 degrees at 0700. Hi 83. Skies mostly clear. Winds 8 mph from the S. 0910 mile 96+1, Shoved off from the fuel dock 0918 96, Entered main channel in Tennessee River 0952 100, Passed under RR Bridge and HWY Bridge 1033 106, Passed down bond tow Martha Mac (2x5+2) 1149 116, Passed under I 40 Bridge 1408 135, Passed under HWY 412 Bridge 1558 148, Dropped anchor behind Double Island Great stay at the Pebble Isle Marina. They provide f [...]
ree cinnamon rolls Monday – Saturday. However, they decided to provide us more cinnamon rolls on Sunday morning. The staff brought them out while we were getting fuel. After getting in the channel we enjoyed the rolls. The day and scenery were wonderful.
New Johnsonville ‐ Oct 14, 2016

Cruised 64 miles over 8 hours. Today’s weather: 53 degrees at 0700. Hi 71. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 5 mph from the E changing to SE. Rain in the forecast. 0808 mile 34+1, Weighed anchor 0909 42, Passed under HWY 68 Bridge 1003 49, Passed down bound chemical tow (2x1), Karl G. Karden 1137 63, Entered Tennessee 1209 66, Passed under McWheter Bridge 1326 78, Ferry Crossing / Abandoned RR Bridge 1415 85, Passed down bound tow (2x5), JVessco 1600 96+1, Landed at Pebble Isle Marina [...]
After getting the stubborn starboard engine started, we weighed anchor and headed back up the Tennessee River. Mostly low hanging clouds all day that blocked the view due to the heavy mist. However, still a beautiful run up the river.

T for Tennessee

T for Tennessee
Benton ‐ Oct 13, 2016

Cruised 13 miles over 2 hours. Today’s weather: 53 degrees at 0700. Hi 68. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 8 mph from the N-NE. 1030 mile 32, Shoved off from dock 1033 33, Encountered tow at Canal entrance, Johnny Cox (3x4) 1102 Barkley Canal, Passed under HWY Bridge 1107 mile 25 on Tennessee River, entered Kentucky Lake, tow (1x5) 1138 30, Passed down bound tow (1x2) 1230 34+1, dropped anchor in Duncan Bay Had breakfast with friends before shoving off this morning. Only going a short [...]
distance to day to set up for tomorrow’s run to Pebble Beach Marina. The fall colors are turning more orange. Pretty run today.
Grand Rivers ‐ Oct 11, 2016

Cruised 43 miles over 5 hours. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi 81. Skies mostly clear. Winds 6 mph from the SE. 0845 mile 73, Weighed anchor 1006 63, Passed under Henry R. Lawrence Bridge, entered Barkley Lake 1215 50, Passed up bound tow (3x4) hauling coal, Martha Denton 1310 36, Passed up bound tow (3x4) hauling gravel and coal, Ronald L. Sensenbach 1335 33, Passed by the Barkley Canal 1350 32, Docked at Green Turtle Bay Another great day spent on the Cumberland River. S [...]
aw hundreds of ducks making the migration south. Saw one Bald Eagle. The fall color continues to improve on a daily basis.
Cadiz ‐ Oct 10, 2016

Cruised 54 miles over 6.5 hours. Today’s weather: 44 degrees at 0700. Hi 75. Skies clear. Winds 6 mph from the east. 0945 mile 127, Shoved off from fuel dock 0955 126, Passed under R.J. Corman RR Swing Bridge 1230 104, Passed Cumberland City Ferry 1354 91, Passed up bound tow on the one whistle, Nashville Hunter (3x5) 1415 89, Passed under Sidney C. Lewis HWY Bridge 1550 75, Entered Kentucky 1611 73, Anchored in Dry Creek Another beautiful day on the Cumberland. After gettin [...]
g a small amount of fuel to get several days down river, we headed out. Saw an unusual amount of bird activity today. Counted 80 Blue Herons in a 25 mile stretch.
Clarksville ‐ Oct 8, 2016

Cruised 64 miles over 6.75 hours. Today’s weather: 55 degrees at 0700. Hi 75. Skies clear. Winds 13 mph from the north. 0910 mile 191, Shoved off from dock 0918 190, Pup bound tow, David K. Wilson (2x3) 1018 182, Passed under the last of 8 Nashville Bridges 1345 149, Arrived at Cheatam Lock, with a large tow in progress of locking. 1400 149, Dropped anchor to wait for lock 1515 149, Secured in Lock 1535 149, Cleared Lock, down 26 feet 1728 130, Passed under State [...]
HWY 13 Bridge 1740 128, Passed under John T. Cunningham HWY Bridge 1755 127, Docked at Clarksville Marina Another good day of cruising. The vivid greens have given way and are starting to dull. More yellows on the trees along the bank. Finally saw a deer along the river today. Went over to a Mexican Restaurant after docking and they had the Tennessee / Texas A&M game on. Game went to overtime. The missed kick (A&M) to win the game sent up a big cheer by the Tennessee fans. The exuberance was short lived. On their first play in overtime, Tennessee quarterback thru a pick six for the loss. When I said interception, game over, it was dead silence. Oh well somebody had to win.

Nashville Nights

Nashville Nights
Nashville ‐ Oct 6, 2016

Cruised 40 miles over 5.25 hours. Today’s weather: 65 degrees at 0700. Hi 87. Skies clear. Winds 5 mph from the east. 0805 mile 152, Weighed anchor 0818 153, Entered Cumberland River 0900 158, passed under Veterans Memorial Bridge 1151 182, Passed under Andrew B Gibson Bridge 1215 185, Passed thru open RR Swing Bridge 1220 186, Passed under MLK WHY Bridge 1244 189, Passed under I-65 Bridge 1253 190, Passed under Kelly Smith Bridge 1256 190.5, Passed under CSX RR Draw Bridge 1259 [...]
191, Passed under James Robertson PKWY Bridge 1305 192, Passed under Woodlawn Street Bridge 1315 192.5, Passed under Pedestrian Bridge, docked along east bank in Nashville Greeted by fog in the morning due to cool air and warm water. The fog burned off enough to see by 0800 so we weighed anchor. Fog finally burned off about 0845. Another pretty cruise along the Cumberland River. Unfortunately, the power at the Nashville Dock is wired incorrectly so we cannot get power. Third time this has happened. Always been at government facilities. So much for the low bidder.
Charlotte ‐ Oct 5, 2016

Cruised 63 miles over 8.5 hours. Today’s weather: 66 degrees at 0700. Hi 85. Skies mostly clear. Winds 5 mph from the south. 0845 mile 91, Weighed anchor 1015 102, passed down bound tow (2x1) 1313 126, passed under RR Bridge 1325 128, passed under HWY Bridge 1338 130, passed under HWY Bridge 1610 149, arrived at Cheatam Lock 1630 149, cleared Cheatam Lock 1720 154, dropped anchor about a mile up Harpeth River Another beautiful day cruising the Cumberland River. Mostly the banks [...]
were limestone bluffs overlooking the river. Sometimes the bluffs gave way to sandy shores with farm crops coming to the waters edge.
Dover ‐ Oct 4, 2016

Cruised 59 miles over 7.25 hours. Today’s weather: 56 degrees at 0700. Hi 83. Skies partly cloudy. Winds 7 mph from the E-SE. 0945 mile 32, Shoved off from fuel dock 1118 43, Past Kentucky State Pen 1330 63, Passed under Henry R. Lawrence HWY Bridge 1456 74.7, Kentucky/Tennessee state line, entered Tennessee 1638 89, Passed under Sidney C. Lewis HWY Bridge 1700 91, Anchored at Dover Island Good cruise today along the Cumberland River. Impounded by a dam that forms Barkley Lake.
Grand Rivers ‐ Sep 30, 2016

Cruised 44 miles over 6.5 hours. Today’s weather: 60 degrees at 0700. Hi 68. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 6 mph from the W-NW. 0800 mile 933 on Ohio River, Weighed anchor headed out on Ohio River, travelled with Marvelous and LyreLynn 0930 mile 923 on Ohio River, Mile 0 on Cumberland River, entered Cumberland River 0957 mile 4, passed under bridge 1313 28, passed under I-24 HWY Bridge 1333 30, passed under Euraka HWY Bridge 1336 31, arrived at the Barkley Lock 1349 31, entered the Lo [...]
ck, up 57 feet 1401 31, exited Lock, entered Barkley Lake 1430 Docked at Green Turtle Bay Another good day of FOG (Favor of God). Arrived at Lock and basically went right into the lock. Average wait time for the lock is normally 2-3 hours.

Divine Appointment

Divine Appointment
Paducah ‐ Sep 29, 2016

Cruised 97 miles over 13 hours. Today’s weather: 52 degrees at 0700. Hi 69. Skies partly cloudy. Winds 11 mph from the W-NW. 0700 mile 49, Weighed anchor headed out on Upper Mississippi River, travelled with Marvelous and LyreLynn 0710 46, Up bound tow (3x5+2) 0725 44, Passed under RR Bridge 0900 23, Passed up bound chemical tow (1x3) 0910 21, Passed up bound tow (1x3) 1000 11, Passed up bound tow (4x4) 1015 8, Passed under I-57 Bridge 1045 mile 0 Upper Mississippi, 953 Lower Miss [...]
issippi, 981 Ohio River: Cairo Point Junction, turned up bound on Ohio River 1059 980 on Ohio River, Passed under US 60 HWY Bridge 1115 978, Passed under RR Bridge 1127 977, Passed down bound tow (3x4) 1231 964, Arrived Olmstead Lock which is under construction 1347 964, Cleared Olmstead Lock, escorted thru lock 1629 944, Passed under Metropolis RR Bridge 1653 941, I-24 Bridge 1700 939, Arrived at Lock 52 1835 939, Cleared Lock 52 1848 937, Passed under US 45 HWY Bridge 2000 933, Dropped anchor Cuba Tow Head in mouth of Tennessee River Expected a long day today and the day did not disappoint. The Olmstead Lock, which is under construction and Lock 52 both have a reputation for long delays. We managed to actually make it thru both locks with only a little more than 2.5 hours. After making Lock 52 it was getting dark so we motored in the dark and found a place to anchor for the night.
Scott City ‐ Sep 28, 2016

Cruised 110 miles over 9.25 hours. Today’s weather: 60 degrees at 0700. Hi 69. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 6-15 mph from the NW. 0745 mile 159, Shoved off from dock 0803 156, up bound tow (4x6) that left large wake 0830 149, passed tow (4x6) and chemical tow (3x3) 0920 139, passed up bound chemical tow (1x2) 1013 129, passed up bound tow (3x6) 1054 122, passed up bound tow (6x7) and a small tow (1x3) 1145 111, passed up bound tow (4x6) 1150 110, passed under Chester Bridge 1410 81, [...]
passed under suspended pipeline 1455 72, passed up bound tow (1x4) 1520 66, passed down bound tow (2x4+1) and an up bound tow (1x3) 1630 52, passed under Cape Girardeau Bridge 1700 49, pulled into Little River Diversion Channel and dropped anchor with four other looper boats. One is LearyLynn and the other is Marvelous, both from Texas. Today was our longest run ever, 110 miles. This was to position us to finish the Mississippi River tomorrow and start up the Ohio River to some of the most infamous locks on the loop.
Kimmswick ‐ Sep 27, 2016

Cruised 44 miles over 5.25 hours. Today’s weather: 52 degrees at 0700. Hi 76. Skies clear. Winds 6-11 mph from the W-SW. 0800 mile 203, Shoved off from dock 0815 201, Secured in Mel Price Lock 0830 201, Cleared Lock, down 24 feet 0842 198, passed chemical tow on 1, (1x2) and a small tow (1x1) 0902 195, Passed the junction with the Missouri River 0905 194, Entered canal to bypass Chain of Rocks Rapids 0923 190, Passed under 2 bridges 0953 185, Arrived at Lock 27, tow in lock 1030 [...]
185, Gate opening, cleared lock, down 12 feet 1040 185, met up bound tow as we left lock (3x4) 1046 184, met up bound tow (3x5) 1051 183 – 180, passed under 6 bridges in St. Louis 1111 180, Passed the Gateway Arch 1207 169, Passed under Jefferson Barracks Bridge 1310 159, Docked at Hoppies Interesting day on the water. Initially there was confusion with people leaving the marina to make the first lock. People agreed to leave at 0800 as a flotilla. When we left at 0800, all but one boat was already gone. We got thru the first lock with no issues. When we arrived at the second lock, all our marina buddies were sitting waiting at the lock. All six of the pleasure craft locked thru together and then went on to Hoppies Marina.

Hoppies
Alton ‐ Sep 26, 2016

Cruised 15 miles over 1.75 hours. Today’s weather: 52 degrees at 0700. Hi 72. Skies clear. Winds 11 mph from the NW. 1020 mile 0 Illinois River, mile 218 Mississippi River, Shoved off from dock 1108 210, passed up bound tow on the 1 (3x5) 1113 209, passed up bound tow on the 1 (1x1) 1200 203, passed under Clark Bridge 1210 203, docked at Alton Marina Moved down river 15 miles to position us for the 60 mile run to Hoppies Marine Services. The marina was full Monday night which means [...]
that the 300 foot of barge was taken. We have a reservation for Tuesday night.
Grafton ‐ Sep 24, 2016

Cruised 47 miles over 5 hours. Today’s weather: Had no cell service today. Was in the 80’s with south wind about 5 mph. 0815 mile 48, Weighed anchor 0845 43, had to wait for up bound tow (1x2) to clear bridge 0905 41, met up bound tow (2x2) 1015 30, met up bound tow (3x5+1) 1107 22, passed under Hardin Lift Bridge 1115 21, passed up bound tow (1x2) 1119 21, passed up bound tow (1x2) 1246 5, passed down bound tow (3x4+2) 1320 1, pulled into Grafton Harbor Marina fuel dock Beautifu [...]
l day cruising. The scenery continues to get better. Less and less industrial areas now. More hills in the background and bluffs overlooking the river.

Grain Operations
Pearl ‐ Sep 23, 2016

Cruised 59 miles over 6.5 hours. Today’s weather: 68 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 88 degrees. Skies mostly clear. Winds 5 mph from south. 0853 mile 107, Weighed anchor 1054 mile 89, RR Bridge- had to request to open because of high water level 1100 mile 88, Passed under Beardstown Bridge 1105 mile 87, Logged 20 miles, 1/3 done for today 1150 mile 80, Passed over La Grange Lock Dam, 15 foot depths 1242 mile 71, Passed under Meredosia Bridge 1300 mile 68, Logged 490 miles, 2/3 done for toda [...]
y 1343 mile 61, Passed under RR Bridge 1345 mile 60.5, Furthest west point on the Great Loop N39 42’.980 W90 38’.772 1350 mile 60, Passed under dual I-70 Bridge, up bound tow (1x1) 1422 mile 56, Passed under Flosence Lift Bridge. 1515 mile 48, Dropped anchor McEverse Island All was going very well today until the last bridge. Because the water level was up I was worried about the anchor light hitting the bridge while we passed under. The bridge is supposed to be 28 feet at normal pool level. While we were focused on making sure the anchor light was safe, we forgot about the antennae. We normally drop the antennae when the bridge height is less than 24 feet. Well the anchor was safe but the antennae was not, broke the tip off. The antennae is still functional but the fiberglass tip is broke. On a brighter note, we did see 8 Bald Eagles today, 4 mature ones and 4 juveniles whose plumage has not completely turned to what a mature eagle looks like.
Bath ‐ Sep 22, 2016

Cruised 61 miles over 6.5 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 87 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 3-8 mph from south. 0915 mile 168, Shoved off from dock 0928 mile 166, Passed under McCluggage Bridge 1000 mile 164-161, Passed under 4 bridges in Peoria 1025 mile 158, Passed over Peoria Lock 1059 mile 153-151, Passed under 2 Pekin bridges 1120 mile 148, 1/3 done for the day, 20 miles 1200 mile 143, overtook a down bound tow (3x4) 1240 mile 136, Passed up bound tow hauling c [...]
oal (3x3) 1322 mile 128, 2/3 done for the day, 40 miles 1358 mile 123, Passed up bound tow, new record (3x4+2=14) 1417 mile 120, Passed under Havana Bridge 1547 mile 107, Dropped anchor in Bath Chute south of Grand Island Beautiful day of cruising. One new experience today. Because the river is up high, we actually bypassed the Peoria Lock and motored right over the dam. A little nervous since the depth is not charted for that, but we had 16 feet as we went over the dam.
Peoria Heights ‐ Sep 21, 2016

Cruised 25 over 3 hours. Today’s weather: 69 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 90 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 5 mph from south. 0830 mile 193, Weighed anchor and headed back into Illinois River 0900 189, Passed under Lacon HWY Bridge 0950 182, Passed under RR Bridge, passed a down bound tow (3x4) 1130 168, Docked at Illinois Valley Yacht Club Marina Woke up to a May Fly infestation. Last night Claudia kept asking if it was raining. What she was hearing were the May Fly’s running into the boa [...]
t. Dead May Flies were piled about 4 inches deep over about 10 square feet around the anchor light. After cleaning most of the bugs off we had a good cruise down to Peoria.

Following the Fall Color South

Following the Fall Color South
Henry ‐ Sep 20, 2016

Cruised 49 miles over 6.25 hours. Today’s weather: 63 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 84 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 8 mph from the E-NE, changing to 8 mph from the E. 0842 mile 242, Shoved off from dock 0852 242, Entered Illinois River 0912 Passed under 2 bridges in Ottawa 1003 mile 231, Arrived Starved Rock Lock 1020 Entered Lock 1040 Cleared Lock 1115 mile 225, La Salle HWY Bridge 1140 mile 221, First north bound tow – 1 barge 1315 mile 208, Passed under I-80 Bridge 1510 mile 193, D [...]
ropped anchor Lower Henry Island Good weather and good cruise with only minor delays. We did get behind a down bound tow today at the same time the river made a complete u turn. The tow, Norman, would not give permission to pass until after he completely made the turn and got straightened back out. Later in the day right before the anchor spot, we came up on a down bound tow that was four barges in length and three wide for a total of 12 barges in one tow.
Ottawa ‐ Sep 19, 2016

Cruised 46 miles over 9 hours. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 85 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 3-9 mph from the S, changing to 9-14 mph S-SW. 0810 mile 288, Shoved off from Joliet Town Wall 0820 mile 286, Arrived at Brandon Road Lock, had to wait 15 minutes to turn lock 0916 Cleared Lock, 34 feet down 1015 mile 278, I55 Bridge, entered Illinois River 1054 mile 272, Arrived at Dresdon Lock, had to wait 15 minutes to enter lock 1125 Cleared lock, 22 feet down 1418 mile 243, [...]
Arrived Marseilles Lock, had to wait 2 hours to allow tow to clear 1700 Cleared Lock, Rafted with Tidings of Joy 1720 mile 242, docked at Heritage Harbor Marina Good day on the water. First two locks went smoothly. Third lock had a long delay so we dropped the anchor to wait. Ended up going thru lock with six other looper boats. Docked two miles down river after lock.

Illinois River
Joliet ‐ Sep 17, 2016

Cruised 43miles over 6 hours. Today’s weather: 68 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 81 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 10 mph from the SW, changing to 13 mph from the W-SW. 1000 Shoved off from dock 1030 Cleared Chicago Harbor Lock, down 1 foot, entered Chicago River 1115 mile 312, entered Chicago Ship Channel and Sanitary Canal 1350 mile 303, Junction with Calumet River 1430 mile 297, Electric Fish Barrier 1550 mile 291, Cleared Lockport Lock, down 39 feet entered Des Plaines River 1600 m [...]
ile 288, Docked along Bicentennial Park Wall, Joliet, Illinois Had a great cruise thru downtown Chicago and then down the Sanitary Canal to Joliet with Claudia’s cousin and family.
Chicago ‐ Sep 14, 2016

Cruised 63 miles over 7.5 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 69 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 9 mph from the N, changing to 9 mph E-NE. 0905 Shoved off from dock 1018 Passed Kenosha, Wisconsin 1140 Entered Illinois 1533 Passed Wilson Ave. Intake Crib Light 1600 Passed WME Dever Crib Light 1705 Docked at B47 after pump out Weather played havoc today. The wind actually was out of the East which caused beam seas all day. We rolled in 1-3 foot swells most of the d [...]
ay. As we approached Chicago, the wind intensified and the waves were 3-5 foot swells. Glad to be in the dock and out of the weather.

The Big Onion

The Big Onion
Racine ‐ Sep 13, 2016

Cruised 48 miles over 5.5 hours. Today’s weather: 66 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 74 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 7 mph from the W-SW, changing to 7 mph W-NW. 0900 Shoved off from dock 1150 Passed Milwaukee 1340 Rounded Wind Point North Shoal 1403 Rounded Wind Point South Shoal 1430 Docked W7-20 Leaving the marina was a little exciting. There was a guy who hooked a large salmon right in front of the boat. We had to wait for him to land the fish before exiting the fairway. When exi [...]
ting the breakwater, we were greeted with five foot waves. After passing thru the breakwater the waves died down to a 1-2 foot swell. The run down to Reef Point Marina was un-eventful.
Port Washington ‐ Sep 11, 2016

Cruised 63 miles over 6.5 hours. Today’s weather: 50 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 70 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 9 mph from the W-SW, changing to 15 mph S-SW. 0900 Shoved off from dock 0953 Rounded Sheboygan Point 1030 Rounded Black River Point 1330 Docked at Port Washington Municipal Marina along wall Today’s journey to Port Washington was good. The shore line was beautiful while we were close enough to enjoy the view. However, After Sheboygan we had to move about three miles offshore [...]
due to fish traps all submerged in the water. We met Sharon, from softball family, and had a great afternoon catching up on life. Even enjoyed a Packers win.
Manitowoc ‐ Sep 8, 2016

Cruised 30 miles over 4 hours. Today’s weather: 67 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 78 degrees. Foggy. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 9 mph from the W. 0900 Shoved off from dock, still light fog hanging around 1115 Passing Rawley Point Light in Point Beach Forest 1138 Rounded Point Beach 1300 Arrived at fuel dock Today was a good cruise. The fog lifted around 1000 and then it was a smooth cruise until we rounded Point Beach. The wind had shifted and the swells were coming from the south which mea [...]
nt we were getting 1 foot slow rollers rolling the boat. The good news was that the marina was less than 30 minutes away.

Out of This World

Out of This World
Kewaunee ‐ Sep 7, 2016

Cruised 67.3 miles over 6.75 hours. Today’s weather: 72 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 76 degrees. Skies cloudy and rain. Winds 9 mph from the E-NE. 0900 Shoved off from dock 1110 Made 20 miles, no longer see Michigan 1120 Down bound Laker passed behind us 1200 Made 30 miles/ entered Wisconsin 1300 Made 41.5 miles 1330 Land ho – can see Wisconsin at 47 miles out from Michigan 1436 Made 60 miles 1540 Entered Harbor in the fog 1550 Docked at the T on E dock With the wind out of the east [...]
in single digits, the water started to smooth out. The waves were predicted to be 1-3 feet in the morning and < 1 foot after noon. As we exited the harbor the waves were as predicted. As we moved further out into the lake the waves continued to give up their energy from the last few days of howling winds. By the time we were half-way across the waves were less than a foot. This made for an extremely mild ride for crossing the big lake. Hard to imagine it could ever get much calmer. We were surprised though when our phones auto switched to the central time zone out in the lake. Had not even thought about being back in the central time zone today.

Kewaunee Nuclear Power Plant
Frankfort ‐ Sep 3, 2016

Cruised 41.5 miles over 4.5 hours. Today’s weather: 59 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 73 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 6 mph from the S-SW, changing to 7 mph from the N-NW. 0900 Shoved off from dock 0957 Passed Pyramid Point Shoal 1005 Passed back below the 45th parallel 1022 Up bound Laker, Saginaw – Canada 1100 Passed Sleeping Bear Point 1200 Down bound Laker, Algoma – Canada 1215 Up bound Laker 1243 Passed Point Betsie Light 1324 Docked at Frankfort Municipal Marina, Slip 53 Weather [...]
was surprising again. Though the winds were in single digits, the swells were 2-3 feet. Had the swells on the bow for most of the day which causes the boat to rock up and down as she cuts over the waves. The sand dunes were interesting to see along the shore.
Leland ‐ Sep 2, 2016

Cruised 36 miles over 5 hours. Today’s weather: 53 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 71 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 5 mph from the E, changing to 9 mph from the N-NE. 0923 Shoved off from dock, wait for 0930 bridge opening 0932 Passed thru Pine River Bridge 1017 Entered mouth of Grand Traverse Bay 1115 Crossed to south side of Grand Traverse Bay 1125 Passed up bound Laker, Phillips R. Clarke – USA 1143 Passed Cathead Point 1330 Docked at Leland Township Harbor 1425 Up bound Laker, Mesabi Mi [...]
ner – USA Winds were light today which made for an enjoyable cruise. The water was beautiful as we went south to admire the first of the large sand dunes on the eastern shore of Michigan.
Charlevoix ‐ Sep 1, 2016

Cruised 62.75 miles over 6.25 hours. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 66 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 14 mph from the N 0903 Shoved off from dock, headed west to Beaver Island. 0944 Entered Straight of Mackinac 0950 Passed under Mackinac Bridge 1130 Turned South at abandoned Lighthouse 1200 Passed up bound Laker, Nitowac – USA 1445 Arrived Pine River Bridge 1500 Passed thru Bascule Bridge – 12 feet at 1500 opening 1515 Docked at Municipal Marina The plan was [...]
to cruise to Beaver Island. However, with strong winds from the north building 3-5 foot seas off of the beam, we decided to head south rather than take the beating to the island for another two hours.
Mackinac Island ‐ Aug 30, 2016

Cruised 38 miles over 4.25 hours. Today’s weather: 68 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 75 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 6 mph from the W-SW changing to 9 from the W.006 0906 Shoved off from dock 0907 Passed up bound Laker – Zarback – British 0930 Passed De Tour Reef Light 1051 Passed Martin Reef Light 1320 Docked at slip 43 Nice cruise today until we reached the marina. Then the dockhands would not answer the radio. Called them by phone to get our slip assignment. While approach [...]
ing the slip another boat pulled beside us trying to get into his slip. He jammed me between a tour boat trying to pull out and his boat. Then he honked his air horn three times and made a few other unpleasant gestures. Not sure what his problem was, but I continued to my slip and backed in the slip. With the wind blowing across the beam of the boat it was a bit exciting getting the boat landed with no dock hand assistance. They were busy talking with someone two slips over as three boats all pulled in with no help. Oh well. We landed safely.

The Secret of the Secret Garden

The Secret of the Secret Garden
De Tour Village ‐ Aug 29, 2016

Cruised 40.5 miles over 5.25 hours. Today’s weather: 53 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 77 degrees. Skies mostly clear. Winds 5 mph from the E-SE changing to 7 from the E. 1006 Shoved off from dock 1010 Headed south on St Mary’s River 1051 Passed an up bound Laker, Buffalo – USA 1110 Entered down bound channel 1115 Passed an up bound Laker, Roger Blough – USA 1220 Entered Munuscong Lake 1345 Passed Round Island Light 1430 Re-entered Lake Huron 1515 Docked at De Tour Harbor Uneventf [...]
ul cruise south. Beautiful calm waters.
Sault Ste. Marie, Mi ‐ Aug 28, 2016

Cruised 35 miles over 4.5 hours. Today’s weather: 65 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 68 degrees. Skies cloudy. Winds 6-11 mph from the W changing to 13 from the W N-NW. 0830 Shoved off from dock 0942 12.5 miles from Whitefish Point Light 1058 Gros Cap Reef Light, entrance to St Mary’s River 1230 Cleared American Lock 1300 Docked at Kemp Marina Based on the weather, we decided to make a run for Sault Ste. Marie today while the wind was at our back. Left earlier than usual and waters were c [...]
alm. Seas built to about 3 feet swells. After getting to the Gros Cap Reef Light the winds were blocked by the wind and the water calmed down. Glad to be off of Lake Superior.

Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Whitefish Point ‐ Aug 26, 2016

Cruised 35 miles over 4.5 hours. Today’s weather: 57 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 70 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 9-11 mph from the N-NW. 0910 Shoved off from dock 0915 Docked at Kemp Marina for fuel and Customs check-in 1000 Cleared customs 1045 Arrived at American Locks 1200 Cleared Lock and bridged, entered Lake Superior 1630 Arrived Whitefish Bay Point Arrived back in the USA. The Canadian RR Bridge was broken (12 foot vertical clearance) so we went thru on the American side. Had t [...]
o wait for a large laker vessel to clear the lock before we could enter. Then we cleared the lock with a pilot boat and a tug.

Lighthouse

Famous Last Words

Famous Last Words
Train -in bound, Canada ‐ Aug 25, 2016

Returned 114 miles by train.
Train - outbound

114 mile one way train trip into the heartland of Ontario. Saw some rough and rugged country. Then hiked to three waterfalls and a canyon overlook before reboarding the train and heading back to Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie, ON ‐ Aug 24, 2016

Cruised 33 miles over 3.5 hours. Today’s weather: 64 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 78 degrees. Skies cloudy with chance of rain. Winds 4-11 mph from the S-SE. 0920 Shoved off from dock after pump out 0930 Entered St Joseph Channel 1017 Passed under HWY Bridge 1030 Started raining 1100 Entered Middle Neebish Channel 1109 Entered St Mary’s River 1248 Docked at Roberta Bondar Marina The early part of the run was pretty, rough, and rugged territory. After the rain started it was hard to se [...]
e much, including the navigational aides. The rain slackened as we approached to dock, but did not stop until after we had landed.

Bridal Falls
Hilton Beach ‐ Aug 23, 2016

Cruised 47 miles over 5.25 hours. Today’s weather: 63 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 80 degrees. Skies mostly clear. Winds 12 mph from the W-NW. 0910 Shoved off from dock 1420 Docked at Hilton Beach Marina Weather proved to be an issue today. The wind was much stronger than predicted. The wind caused 3-5 foot waves mixed with 3-5 foot swells that were coming off the port beam. Since we traveled about due west for most of the day it made for a rough ride.

Birds
Blind River ‐ Aug 22, 2016

Cruised 55 miles over 6.5 hours. Today’s weather: 53 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 73 degrees. Skies mostly clear. Winds 11 mph from the W-NW changing to 12 mph from W-SW 0900 Shoved off from dock 1115 Entered McBean Channel 1150 Passed thru Little Detroit 1152 Entered Whalesback Channel 1530 Docked at Blind River Marine Weather proved to be ok today. The wind caused 1-3 foot seas most of the day. Taking the small craft route thru the islands helped keep the waves at bay. However, the l [...]
ast 8 miles were in an open fetch to the marina. Waves built to 3-5 for much of the last hour. Finally made the turn to the marina and got out of the wind.

Sunset on Blind River
Kagawong ‐ Aug 20, 2016

Cruised 20 miles over 2.5 hours. Today’s weather: 69 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 78 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 6-12 mph from the W-SW changing to 14 mph from S 0845 Shoved off from dock wall 1111 Docked at Kagawong Had to leave a bit early today because a cruise ship was scheduled to land at the Little Current Town Dock at 0900. We had to be off of the dock before the cruise ship arrived. We made the jump over to Kagawong to check out the Bridal Veil Falls. Tomorrow’s weather i [...]
s calling for 20-25 knot winds so we will sit here on Sunday and figure out our next move. The weather all next week looks pretty iffy for cruising so we will have to pick our weather windows carefully. However, the weather here is a lot like home in Texas. If you do not like the weather now, just wait a few minutes and it will change.

The Mystery of Danny Dodge

The Mystery of Danny Dodge
Little Current- Town Dock ‐ Aug 19, 2016

Cruised 25 miles over 3 hours. Today’s weather: 68 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 89 degrees. Partly cloudy. Winds 7 mph from the N-NW changing to 6 mph from NW 0900 Weighed anchor and headed out of Baie Fine 1015 Entered Frazier Bay 1045 Entered North Channel 1145 Arrived at Little Current Swing Bridge 1200 Passed thru Swing Bridge 1205 Moored along Town Dock wall The cruise was beautiful today as we took in the white granite and quartz mountains. After arriving at the dock we mailed bir [...]
thday presents to Aiden and Garrett, then went back to the grocery store. There is a cruise ship pulling in here in the morning so we have to be off of the wall by 0900.
Baie Fine - The Pool ‐ Aug 17, 2016

Cruised 25 miles over 3.5 hours. Today's weather: 66 degrees @ 0700. Hi temp 75. Skies cloudy. Winds 10 mph from SW changing to 11 mph from W-SW. 0953 Shoved off from dock 1000 Passed thru Swing Bridge 1107 Re-entered Georgian Bay 1147 Entered Baie Fine 1330 Dropped anchor in 'The Pool' Today a major storm developed that produced a funnel cloud after we left Little Current. The storm chased us all the way to our anchor location. As wew were making our final approach to 'The [...]
Pool,' the storm finally turned south and the weather cleared up.
Little Current - Boyle Marine ‐ Aug 16, 2016

Cruised 29 miles over 4 hours. Today's weather: 68 degrees at 0700. Hi 72. Mostly cloudy. Winds 9 mph from E-NE changing to 14 mph from NE 0920 Shoved off from dock 0953 Entered Killarney Bay 1156 Entered North Channel 1300 Arrived at Little Current Swing Bridge 1318 Docked at Boyle Marine for prop work 1630 Docked at Town Dock for overnight Decided to go to Little Current to get the props switched out and then head back to The Pool for a few days. Work went fine and we [...]
were back in the water in about two hours.
Killarney ‐ Aug 15, 2016

Cruised 41 miles over 5.5 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 75 degrees. Mostly cloudy. Winds 4 mph from the south. 0900 Weighed anchor 0934 Cleared the Bad River 1120 Entered Beaverstone Bay 1200 Entered Collins Inlet 1430 Docked at Killarney Mountain Lodge Another beautiful scenic run. The plan was to stay two nights at Bad River; however, a storm is brewing with high winds predicted. Decided to head to safe harbor before the storm arrives tonight. Gale force wind [...]
s predicted (>40 mph).

Killarney Lighthouse
Bad River ‐ Aug 14, 2016

Cruised 31 miles over 4 hours. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 73 degrees. Mostly cloudy. Winds 3-10 mph from NW, changing to 64-9 mph from W 0900 Shoved off from dock with LyreLynn and Perfect Day 0955 Cleared Cunningham Channel 1045 Cleared Rogers Cut, hit a rock with port prop 1300 Anchored in Bad River, just across from Devil Door Rapids Other than hitting a rock going thru Rogers Cut, this was one of the best anchorages to date. The scenery was breath taking all along [...]
the route. Took a dingy ride to explore the area and had fresh fried bass for supper.

Devil's Door Rapids
Byng Inlet ‐ Aug 12, 2016

Cruised 16 miles over 2 hours. Today’s weather: 72 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 76 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 7 mph from W, changing to 11 mph from N-NE 0840 Weighed anchor 0945 Entered Bing Inlet 1039 Arrived at Wrights Marina, waiting for slip to clear prior to docking 1045 Docked at pier 10 Today’s weather, mostly wind direction made for an interesting passage. The wind out of the west caused 3-foot beam seas. This caused the boat to roll side to side while crossing the open [...]
water for about 1 hour. After we turned north, the wind decided to change direction out of the north also. Upon arrival at the marina we had to wait about 5 minutes while the staff moved a boat out of our slip.

Byng Inlet Lighthouse

Snug as a Bug

Snug as a Bug
Big Burnt Island ‐ Aug 11, 2016

Cruised 28 miles over 3.5 hours. Today’s weather: 65 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 87 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 4 mph from E-NE, changing to 6 mph from N 0910 Weighed anchor 0947 Passed by Narrows Island 1120 Passed Champlain Monument 1137 Passed Point au Baril Lighthouse 1215 Cleared Hangdog Channel 1237 Dropped anchor along Alexander Passage, north of green ATON 91 Today’s passage thru Hangdog Channel was excitingly frightening. There were two places where you actually have to make [...]
U-turns and there are markers everywhere leading the way. However, there are also lots of rocks just outside the channel waiting to claim a prop. Visually confusing trying to figure out what the next marker was supposed to be. Fun run!

Point au Baril
Snug Island ‐ Aug 10, 2016

Cruised 31 miles over 4.5 hours. Today’s weather: 71 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 76 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 7 mph from SW, changing to 6 mph from W 0904 Shoved off from dock with ON Business and Lyre Lynn 0930 Turning Point, on to Parry Sound on South Channel 0938 Passed Beauty Island 1007 Passed thru 7 mile narrows 1050 Arrived Parry Sound Island Swing Bridge, wait for 1100 opening 1100 Passed thru Parry Sound Swing Bridge 1330 Docked at Snug Harbor to eat at Gilly’s 1452 Anchore [...]
d behind Snug Island Claudia finally found the Island she has been wishing for, Maude Island. Only 2.4 million Canadian. We sailed on to snug harbor for a late lunch at Gilly’s. Afterwards it was time to anchor and enjoy the view.

Snug Harbor
Henry's Fish Camp ‐ Aug 9, 2016

Cruised 35 miles over 4 hours. Today’s weather: 61 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 84 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 9 mph from SE, changing to 8 mph from SW 0855 Shoved off from dock 0912 Passed Turning Rock 1003 Passed Penetang Rock 1043 Passed Red Rock 1300 Docked at Henry’s Perfect cruising day. Light winds. Cool temperatures. Small Waves. Great diner with friends.
Beausoleil Island, Cruiser Point ‐ Aug 8, 2016

Cruised 8 miles over 1.25 hours. Today’s weather: 69 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 80 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 4 mph from W, changing to 9 mph from NW 0941 Shoved off from fuel dock 1041 Arrived Beausoleil Point 1100 Docked at Beausoleil Island, Cruisers Point Easy cruise over to the Island. Spent the afternoon swimming and hiking around the Island.
Queen's Cove Marina ‐ Aug 6, 2016

Cruised 16 miles over 2.5 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp77 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 8-13 mph from W-NW changing to 15 mph. 0915 Shoved off from dock and headed into Severn River 0920 Entered Burrows Lake 1012 Entered Little Lake 1030 Arrived Lock 45, Severn 1145 Cleared Lock 45, down 14 feet, passed under bridge 1148 Passed under HWY bridge, entered Georgian Bay 1300 Docked Hog Bay, Queen’s Cove Marina Today was a day of milestones. Today was the last day [...]
on the Trent Severn Waterway after clearing lock 45. It marked the beginning of the Georgian Bay. Lastly, it marks the halfway point for completing the Great Loop.

Boat Load of Fun

https://wordpress.com/post/stillwaters2scuttlebutt.com/3312 Boat Load of Fun
Lock 44, Big Chute ‐ Aug 5, 2016

Cruised 8 miles over 1.5 hours. Today’s weather: 68 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 88 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 16 mph from N7 changing to 15 mph. 0900 Moved from blue line to lock 0910 Cleared Lock 43, Swift Rapids, 47 feet down 0950 Passed under RR bridge 1030 Arrived Big Chute Railway 1200 Crossed over on Big Chute, moored below the lock This was a fun day watching boats load and unload from the Big Chute Railway.
Lock 43, Swift Rapids ‐ Aug 4, 2016

Cruised 26 miles over 4 hours. Today’s weather: 64 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 87 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 6 mph from the NE, changing to 8-14 from E-NE. 0915 Shoved off from dock and entered Lake Couchiching 1100 Stopped at McGregor Marina for 30 minutes for pump out 1102 Passed under bridge, entered Trent Canal 1115 Passed thru RR Swing Bridge 1145 Cleared Lock 42, Couchiching, down 21’ 1230 Entered Sparrow Lake 1334 Passed under RR B ridge 1352 Moored at Swift Rapids Today was [...]
a very scenic run thru small lakes and narrow canals. The shore is lined with green trees and the pink granite is becoming more and more evident as we continue west.
Orillia ‐ Aug 1, 2016

Cruised 30 miles over 6 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 82 degrees. Mostly cloudy. Winds 11 mph from the south. 0905 Shoved off from wall and entered the Kirkfield lift lock, #36, down 49’ 0915 Cleared lock and entered canal 0920 Entered Canal Lake, shallow and lots of weeds 0950 Passed under Hole in the Wall Bridge 1005 Entered Talbot River 1011 Passed thru Talbot Swing Bridge – 5’ 1024 Passed thru Swing Bridge – 5’ 1048 Cleared Lock 37, Bolsover, down [...]
22’ 1112 Cleared Lock 38, Talbot, down 14’ 1114 Passed under fixed bridge 1148 Cleared Lock 39, Portage, down 13’ 1225 Cleared Lock 40, Thorah, down 14’ 1243 Cleared Lock 41, Gamebridge, down 10’ 1300 Passed under RR Bridge, Swing Bridge, and entered Lake Simcoe 1515 Docked at Port Orillia Marina We made the first trip of the day down the Kirkfield Lift Lock. Then it was a slow go thru the narrow, weed infested waters of Canal Lake. Five locks later we came upon Lake Simcoe. We had favorable winds in our back so we kicked up the rpm’s and crossed the lake at 11 mph. Pretty Blue water. Then we carefully made it thru a crowded narrow passage and docked for the day. Will stay in Orillia for three nites and head back out on Thursday.
Kirkfield ‐ Jul 30, 2016

Cruised 48 miles over 7.75 hours. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 83 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 7 mph from the south. 1120 Splashed back into the water and then entered Buckhorn Lake 1228 Passed under Gannon Narrows HWY Bridge 1230 Entered Pigeon Lake 1327 Passed under HWY Bridge 1400 Cleared Lock 32, Bobcaygeon, up 6 feet 1405 Entered Sturgeon Lake 1645 Cleared Lock 33, Fenlon Falls, up 24 feet 1650 Entered Cameron Lake 1726 Cleared Lock 35, Rosedale, up 4 feet, this [...]
is the high point on the Trent Severn 1730 Entered Balsam Lake 1815 Entered Trent Canal 1911 Docked above Lock 36, Kirkfield Lift Lock After getting launched into the water we made way to Bobcaygeon Lock. We did not hold out much hope of finding a spot there on the Lock wall. We talked with Twilla and Andy while locking thru and then waved goodbye. When we verified all spots were taken, we moved on to Fenlon Falls. Fenlon Falls was also booked solid so it was on to Rosedale. Rosedale was also full. Lockmaster said that this was the busiest weekend of the season. He did say that there was room at Kirkfield. Upon arrival, we found only one boat above the lock and three below the lock. We tied up above the lock for the nite.
Buckhorn ‐ Jul 23, 2016

Travelled 8 miles over 2 hours. Temp 65 degrees @ 0700. Hi 88 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 14 mph from NW changing to 16 mph from W-NW. 0935 Shoved off from lock wall. Entered Lovesick Lake 1017 Cleared Lock 30, Lovesick, up 4 feet, entered Lower Buckhorn Lake 1140 Cleared Lock 31, Buckhorn, up 11 feet, moored above lock After going to lunch at the local pizza place, the boat got damaged by a houseboat that bounced off the boat behind Still Waters II and then hit us. Damage will requ [...]
ire repair before moving on.

Buckhorn
Burleigh Falls ‐ Jul 22, 2016

Cruised 22 miles over 7 hours. Today’s weather: 70 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 93 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 14 mph from the N, changing to 21 mph from N-NW. 0930 mile 91, Shoved off from lock wall 21, Peterborough 0935 Passed under HWY Bridge 0937 Passed thru 5’ swing bridge 1000 Passed thru 3 bridges near a university, HWY, Swing, Pedestrian 1005 Passed under another Pedestrian Bridge 1033 mile 94, Cleared Lock 22, Nassau Mills, 14’ lift 1138 mile 95, Cleared Lock 23, Otonabee, 12 [...]
’ lift 1215 mile 96, Cleared Lock 24, Douro, 12’ lift 1312 mile 97, Cleared Lock 25, Sawyer Creek, 10’ lift 1350 mile 99, Cleared Lock 26, Lakefield, 10’ lift 1355 Passed under HWY Bridge 1500 mile 104, Cleared Lock 27, Young’s Point, 7’ lift 1503 Entered Clear Lake 1548 Passed thru Hell’s Gate, entered Stoney Lake 1630 mile 113, Cleared Lock 28, Burleigh Falls, 24’ lift, docked above the lock Another great cruising day of cruising Canada. Locked thru with canoes and other boats today which slowed progress. However, we eventually made it to a nice place to spend the night. Walked down and waded in the Burleigh Falls and took in some of the local ice cream. This was some of the best cream to date on the loop.

Lock 28, Burleigh Falls
Peterborough ‐ Jul 21, 2016

Cruised 40 miles over 6.5 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 90 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 4-11 mph from the N, changing to 14 mph from N-NE. 0845 mile 51, Shoved off from lock wall 18, Hastings 0852 Passed thru swing bridge, entered Rice Lake 1110 mile 68, exit Rice Lake, enter Otonabee River 1200 mile 77, passed under Bensfort Bridge 1243 mile 80, passed under Wallace Point Bridge 1338 mile 87, passed under Peterboro Bypass Bridge 1425 mile 88, cleared lock 19, Sco [...]
tts Mills, 8' liftpassed under bridge and thru swing bridge 1505 mile 89, cleared lock 20, Ashburnham, 12' lift, passed thru swing bridge and RR Bridge 1530 mile 91, cleared lock 21, Peterborough Lift Lock, 65' lift, moored at top of lock Another great cruising day of cruising Canada. Initial plan to moor at lock 20 was foiled by no room left on the wall when we arrived. So we went on to the Peterborough lift lock and then tied up at the top of the lock. Enjoyed the Visitor Center and a Geo-Caching Series along the Trent Severn.
Hastings ‐ Jul 20, 2016

Cruised 20 miles over 5 hours. Today’s weather: 55 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 83 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 7 mph from the N. 1038 mile 31, Shoved off from moor wall headed north on Trent Severn Waterway, passed under HWY Bridge 1120 mile 32, cleared lock 13, Campbellford, 23’ lift 1153 mile 34, cleared lock 14 Crowe Bay, 25’ lift 1234 mile 35, cleared lock 15, Healey Falls, 22’ lift 1305 mile 36, cleared flight locks 16 & 17, Healey Falls, 54’ lift 1308 passed under HWY Bridge [...]
1400 passed under HWY Bridge 1530 mile 51, cleared lock 18, Hastings, 9’ lift, passed thru swing bridge Another great cruising day. Upon arrival at lock 16 & 17, decision to keep going to lock 18 was made due to no water going over the falls. All water was being used by the Hydro Plant. Walked around Hastings after docking. Another one horse town on the Trent Severn.

Captain Crunch

Captain Crunch
Campbellford ‐ Jul 17, 2016

Cruised 5 miles over 2.25 hours. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 82 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 5 mph from the N changing to 9 mph from NW. 1000 Shoved off from moor wall headed north on Trent Severn Waterway 1105 mile 28, cleared lock 10, Hagues Reach, 24’ lift 1200 mile 30, cleared flight locks 11&12, Ramey Falls, 48’ lift 1215 mile 31, moored in Campbellford Nice cruise up to Campbellford. Locked thru with two other boats today. Will spend three nites here to take [...]
in area.
Lock 9, Meyers ‐ Jul 16, 2016

Cruised 18 miles over 3.5 hours. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 76 degrees. Skies partly cloudy. Winds light to 4 mph mph from the NW. 1100 Shoved off from moor wall headed north on Trent Severn Waterway 1103 Passed under HWY Bridge 1150 mile 13.3, entered ‘Danger Narrows’ 1230 mile 13.8, cleared Lock 7, Glen Ross, 10‘ lift, after lock tied along wall and went to the Variety Store to sample their famous ice cream. 1255 Back underway. 1508 mile 25, cleared Lock 8, Pe [...]
rcy Reach, 20’ lift. 1530 mile 26.4 cleared Lock 9, Meyers, 16’ lift, docked along lock wall for the night. For a Saturday there sure were not many boats on the water. However, the Lockmaster at Lock 9 said this was the busiest day of the season, they had locked 17 boats thru today. If this is busy, then this will be an enjoyable cruise.
Frankford ‐ Jul 15, 2016

Cruised 8 miles over 3.5 hours. Today’s weather: 68 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 84 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 8-15 mph from the SW. 0910 Shoved off from dock and headed to the fuel dock. 1000 Shoved off from fuel dock after pump out and taking on fuel. 1005 Entered Trent-Severn Waterway, passed under HWY Bridge 1010 Passed under HWY Bridge 1016 Passed under RR Bridge 1047 mile 2, cleared Lock 1, Trenton 1109 mile 2.4, cleared lock 2, Sydney 1201 mile 3.8, cleared lock 3, Glen Miller 1 [...]
230 mile 5.2, cleared lock 4, Batawa 1300 mile 6.4, cleared lock 5, Trent 1330 mile 7.3, cleared lock 6, moored above the lock Today’s challenge has been the wind. The wind was blowing thru the open lock doors and was making getting tied off difficult. As the lock water level raised, the wind then would pin the boat to the lock wall. This made leaving the lock difficult because it was hard getting off the wall and moving forward without scraping fiberglass along the lock wall. Ready to rest after only 8 miles and 6 locks.

Trent Severn Waterway

Trent Severn Waterway
Quinte West ‐ Jul 6, 2016

Cruised 71 miles over 8.25 hours. Today’s weather: 63 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 84 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 7 mph from the N, change to 13 mph from E-NE 0720 Shoved off from dock 1100 Entered Bay of Quinte 1122 Passed Young Point Ferry Crossing 1229 Passed under fixed HWY Bridge 1530 Docked Trent Port Marina Moved from Kingston to Trenton to position the boat for the beginning of the Trent Severn Waterway. This is another Historic Canal in Canada.

Grill'n, Fish'n, and Chill'n

Grill'n, Fish'n, and Chill'n
Kingston ‐ Jul 5, 2016

Cruised 27 miles over 6.25 hours. 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 86. Mostly cloudy. Winds light from N, shifting to 14 mph from N-NE. 0911 Shoved off from dock, entered Whitefish Lake 0954 Entered Little Cranberry Lake 1009 Passed thru Brass Point Swing Bridge - 4 feet 1010 Entered Cranberry Lak 1105 Cleared Upper Brewers Locks (43/44) down 18 ft down 1140 Cleared Lower Brewers Lock (45) down 13.5 feet 1245 Entered Colonel By Lake 1401 Exited Kingston Mills Locks (46/47/48/49) d [...]
own 48 feet 1500 Passed thru Causway Bridge 1520 Docked at Confederation Basin Marina Last day on the Rideau Canal. The path once again was thru existing lakes connected by canals and locks. Beautiful scenery all along the route.
Elgin ‐ Jul 4, 2016

Cruised 17 miles over 5.25 hours. Today’s weather: 61 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 84 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 8 mph from the N, change to 14 mph from NE 1015 Shoved off from lock wall, entered lock 35, at Narrows Lockstation 1023 Cleared Lock 35, up 3 ft, Entered Upper Rideau Lake, this is the highest elevation on Rideau Canal 1030 Cleared Lock 36, down 8 ft at Newboro Lockstation, entered Newboro Lake 1153 Entered Clear Lake 1220 Arrived Lock 37 at Chaffeys Lockstation 1255 Exited L [...]
ock 37, down 11 ft, entered Opinicon Lake 1325 Exited Lock 38, down 9 ft at Davis Lockstation, entered Sand Lake 1409 Arrived Lock 39, Jones Fall Lockstation 1530 Cleared last Lock of Jones Falls, Lock 42, down 59 ft total 1535 Docked at Kenny Marina Another beautiful day cruising the Historic Rideau Canal. The cruising was a mix of lakes and small channels that connected1 the lakes. Some of the channels were barely wide enough for two boats tom pass in opposite directions.
Newboro ‐ Jul 3, 2016

Cruised 22 miles over 3.5 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 78 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 10 mph from the N. 1030 Shoved off from town dock wall 1045 Cleared Lock 31, up 8 feet 1120 Cleared Lock 32, up 6 feet 1213 Passed under Bridge in Perth 1400 Docked at Lock 35 below the lock Needed to buy some provisions before taking off this morning. After the groceries arrived, i.e. Claudia returned, we shoved off and went over to the town dock to pump out. Set out to head [...]
south down the Rideau River. Stopped at the Narrows Lock for the evening.
Smiths Falls ‐ Jul 2, 2016

Cruised 14 miles over three hours. 65degrees when we left with clear skies and winds at 17 mph from N-NW 1250 Shoved off from the dock wall. 1411 Cleared lock 24, 2 foot lift 1458 Cleared lock 25, 9 foot lift 1533 Cleared lock 26/27, 16 foot lift 1545 Cleared lock 29a, 26 foot lift 1550 Docked at lock 29a

Canada Day

Canada Day
Merrickville ‐ Jun 30, 2016

Cruised 6.3 miles over 3 hours. Today’s weather: 57 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 78 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 5 mph from the N, shifting to 8-13 mph from E-NE. 0906 mile 40, Shoved off from Lock 17 after the Park opened. Parks Canada operates the swing bridge .5 miles down the river. 1036 mile 43.1 – 43.8, Cleared Locks 18/19/20 for a total lift of 21 feet (6/8/7 lift respectively) 1100 mile 45.8, Entered Lock 21 1200 mile 45.8 – 46, Cleared Locks 21/22/23 for a total lift of 24 fee [...]
t. (8/10/6 lift respectively) 1215 mile 46.3, Docked in ‘The Pond’ in Merrickville Left the lock wall with three other boats this morning. Upon arrival at the first lock the lockmaster managed to fit all the boats in the lock. It was a tight fit but we all got in. The four of us travelled all the way to Merrickville together. After lock 23 the four of us all wanted to stay in town and the lockmaster found a way to get us all moored with hydro (electric power). Plan to stay here for Canada Day, July 1st.

Lock 23
Kemptville ‐ Jun 28, 2016

Cruised 26 miles over 4.5 hours. Today’s weather: 60 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 76 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 9 mph from the W, shifting to 7 mph from W-NW 0930 Shoved off from the Blue line and entered Lock 14 for a flight of three locks 1335 Cleared Lock 16, for total step of 25 feet in the three locks. 1147 Mile 23, Passed under Kars HWY Bridge 1236 Mile 29, Passed under HWY 16 Bridge 1302 Mile 32, Passed under Becket’s HWY Bridge 1405 Mile 40, Docked at Lock 17, Burritt [...]
’s Rapid We were joined by two other boats as we locked up. After exiting the three locks we headed south on the canal. The speed limit is 10km/hr or about 6 mph. This will be slow going for the next 25 miles. We will stay at Mile 40, Burritt’s Rapids for two nights before moving further south.

Lock 17
Ottawa ‐ Jun 27, 2016

Cruised 14 mile over 3.25 hours. Today’s weather: 60 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 82 degrees. Clear skies. Winds 3-8 mph from the E shifting to 15 mph from E-NE 1315 Shoved off from the lock wall 1334 Passed under Pretoria Lift Bridge 1401 Arrived Lock 9 1434 Cleared Lock 9/10, up a total of 42 feet 1500 Cleared Locks 11/12 and swing bridge, up 14 feet 1550 Cleared Lock 13, up 9 feet 1622 mile 12.5, passed under Vimy Memorial Bridge 1630 Moored at Lock 14 After watching the Changing of [...]
the Guard, we had to wait for 1300 before leaving. The Pretoria Lift Bridge does not operate between 1200-1315. After Lock 9 the canal moves into existing rivers and lakes and losses its canal look. Stopped for the night at Lock 14.

Lock 14
Ottawa ‐ Jun 26, 2016

Cruised 1 mile over 2.5 hours. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 84 degrees. Partly Cloudy. Winds 3-8 mph from the E shifting to 13 mph from E-NE 0825 Shoved off from dock, headed to Ottawa flight of 8 locks. 0830 Passed under the Alexandra Bridge, oldest bridge over the Ottawa River 0840 Tied to the Blue Line at the Ottawa Flight of 8 Locks 0910 Started the Ottawa Flight of 8 Locks 1100 Exited the last Lock 1110 Moored along canal wall downtown Ottawa We went thru the 8 [...]
locks with a sail boat and a lot of help from the Parks Canada folks. We were surprised how fast they locked us thru the 8 gates. Especially since the gates and valves are all opened manually. After locking thru we saw the crew of the Avocet sitting on the canal wall. They came down and helped us tie up. We last saw Avocet in the Erie Canal. We must be gone by 7 am on Tuesday morning because some security threat with dignitaries coming to town. We will head south on Monday afternoon.

Rideau Canal
Gatineau ‐ Jun 25, 2016

Cruised 7.1 miles over 1.5 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 80 degrees. Clear Skies. Winds 4 mph from the NE shifting to 8 mph from E-NE 0915 Weighed anchor 1024 Passed under McDonald - Cartier Bridge 1045 Docked at Hull Marina across the river from Ottawa, next to the Alexandra Bridge Short cruise this morning to get to mile zero on Ottawa River. Will spend the afternoon taking a bus tour of Ottawa. Will also go look at the 8 locks we will negotiate tomorrow to ent [...]
er the Rideau Canal. Also hope to take a bike ride along the path on the north shore of the river later today.

Ottawa across the river
Ottawa ‐ Jun 24, 2016

Cruised 34.8 miles over 5.25 hours. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 72 degrees. Clear Skies becoming cloudy. Winds 4 mph from the E-SE shifting to 7 mph from NE 0930 Shoved off from dock 0935 Made way back to tent city to get a pic 1000 Underway on Ottawa River, headed west 1445 Dropped anchor in the lee of lower Duck Island The Rock Fest stopped a little after midnight but the bands are back playing this morning at 0900. Went back about a mile to take a few pics of the te [...]
nt cities around town. Then headed west on the Ottawa River. Very little boat traffic until we got within 7 miles of Ottawa. Closer we get the more boats on the water. Dropped anchor behind a small island for the rest of the day.

Little Duck Island

Recalculating

Recalculating
Montebello ‐ Jun 23, 2016

Cruised 30 miles over 4 hours. Today’s weather: 56 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 69 degrees. Clear Skies. Wind 8 mph from the NW 0935 Entered the Carillon Lock 1018 Cleared Lock, 65 feet ride up. Entered Lac Dollard des Ormeaux 1147 Mile 60, Passed under Long Sault Bridge 1211 Mile 57, Crossed Baie Greenville, very shallow 1306 Mile 50, Crossed Baie De L’ Original 1415 Mile 42, Docked Le Chateau Montebello After waking up, we moved the boat to the Blue Line to be able to take the 0930 a [...]
scend at the lock. After exiting the lock we made way up the Ottawa River to Le Chateau Montebello Marina. This is advertised as the largest log structure in the world.

Church on Ottawa River
Saint-André-d'Argenteuil ‐ Jun 22, 2016

Cruised 36 miles over 4.75 hours 51 degrees at 0700, hi temp 68. Partly Cloudy, Winds 9-14 mph from N 1045 Left the fuel dock 1145 Exited Lac St Louis and entered the Ottawa River. We are running upstream into about a 1 knot current. 1230 mile 97.2 – Arrived St Anne de Belleuvue Lock – 3 feet up 1254 Cleared Lock 1311 Passed under Trans Canada HWY Bridge 1312 Entered Lac Des Deux Montagnes 1530 Arrived at Carillon Lock, to late to lock through, tied up on the north wall, out of th [...]
e 17 mph wind Late start today because rain started to fall about 0800. Rather than fuel and leave in the rain, we opted to stay tied to the pier. The rain finally stopped about 1000 and we moved over to the fuel dock. After fueling had an enjoyable cruise on the Ottawa River. Very scenic with woods and mountains surrounding the water.

At Carillon Lock
Dorval ‐ Jun 20, 2016

Cruised 42 miles over 9 hours. Today’s weather: 65 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 81 degrees. Clear Skies. Wind 12-17 mph from the NE 0845 Shoved off from the dock and made way for the St Lawrence River 1025 Exited Lac Saint Francois, entered the Beauharnois Canal 1055 Passed under 8’ lift bridge – Valleyfield Bridge 1133 Passed under 8’ lift bridge – St. Louis Bridge 1200 Arrived at Lock 4 – Beauharnois Upper Lock 1600 Lockmaster has given permission for us to lock thru 1615 Clea [...]
red Lock 4, 42’ down 1640 Cleared Lock 3, 42’ down, Beauharnois Lower Lock 1800 Arrived at The Royal St Lawrence Yacht Club Well we finally ran into the dreaded delays on the St Lawrence River. We had Boat Fog as we cleared the two lift bridges. The first bridge opened 5 minutes early so we did not have to wait. Once we approached the second bridge, he opened up 30 minutes early. However, once we arrived at the Locks we had to wait for four commercial tankers to lock thru. We stayed tied up over at the pleasure dock until we got the green light to enter the lock. After taking the 10 minute ride down 42 feet, we proceeded one mile and did it again. After clearing the two locks we headed across Lac St Louis to The Royal St Lawrence Yacht Club. A nice Canadian came down and helped us dock since the marina was closed. The man is a gold looper from the class of 2012. He also informed us that Montreal has a strike in effect and not to bother to go by boat. Time to recalculate our next move.

Lower Beauharnois Lock
Valleyfield ‐ Jun 18, 2016

Cruised 52 miles over 6.75 hours. Today’s weather: 65 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 82 degrees. Clear Skies. Wind 6-11 mph from the N-NE 0845 Weighed anchor headed back to the St Lawrence River 1000 Passed through Eisenhower Lock – down 42 feet 1040 Cleared the Snell Lock – down 42 feet 1100 Passed under the International Bridge 1112 Passed the 45 degree parallel, now half way between the north pole and equator 1123 Entered Canada, need to clear customs at first port we pull into 1530 [...]
Anchored north of Valleyfield Had a good day on the water, passing many new milestones. First, this is the one year anniversary of moving onto the boat. Second, we entered Canada. Lastly, we crossed the 45 degree parallel. When we arrived in Valleyfield to take a marina for the night, we were surprised that the 400 slip marina was full and had no room. Luckily there was a place to anchor just north of town, so we headed over to the cove and dropped anchor for the night.

All's Well that Ends Well

All's Well that Ends Well
Massena ‐ Jun 17, 2016

Cruised 33 miles over 4.5 hours. Today’s weather: 650 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 78 degrees. Clear Skies. Wind 6-11 mph from the N-NE 1400 Shoved off from the face dock 1415 Passed under Ogdensburg-Preston Bridge 1605 Cleared Iroquois Lock 7, 6 inches down 1830 Anchored Talcotts Point on Croil Island Took a shore excursion to the Remington Art Museum before shoving off from the dock. When I performed the morning fluid checks before starting the engines, discovered an oily mess. I forgot [...]
to put the oil fill cap back on after topping off the starboard engine oil. It spitted oil out while the engine was running. Did not noticed during the mid-day engine checks. Most have been because of the low rpms while we headed to Boldt Castle. Speeded up after the castle visit to make the marina before dark. Normally do end of day engine checks but did not yesterday. Another lesson learned.

Commercial Traffic on St Lawrence River
Ogdensburg, United States ‐ Jun 16, 2016

Cruised 44 miles over 6 hours. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 78 degrees. Clear Skies. Wind 7-12 mph from the E-NE 1025 Untied and left the marina slip 1115 Passed under Thousand Island Bridge 1200 Docked at Boldt Castle 1545 Shoved off from dock, continued east on St Lawrence River 2015 Docked at Ogdensburg Municipal Marina Left the marina to time our arrival at Boldt Castle around lunch time. Enjoyed lunch on the boat overlooking the grounds. Then spent most of the af [...]
ternoon exploring Heart Island and Castle. Interesting history around the Castle. George Boldt’s wife died in January 1904, a month before the Castle was to be officially completed on February 14. George never stepped foot back on the property after his wife’s death. After the shore excursion was complete, we headed east to Ogdensburg to prepare to visit the Remington Art Museum in the morning.

Ogdensburg Mural
Clayton ‐ Jun 15, 2016

Cruised 73 miles over 7.5 hours. Today’s weather: 47 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 72 degrees. Clear Skies. Wind 6 mph from the SW. 0805 Shoved off from the Lock wall. 0823 Cleared Lock O8 with three other Looper boats 0830 Entered Lake Ontario 1140 Arrived Gallo Island 1321 Entered St Lawrence River 1330 Passed Lighthouse on Tibbett Point overlooking Fuller Bay 1530 Docked at 1000 Islands Transient Dock The weather turned out perfect for crossing Lake Ontario. We had southerly winds pu [...]
shing us from the stern all the way across. The seas were basically calm with 1 foot swells. Crossed water over 400 feet deep on Lake Ontario. The water is so clear that you can actually see the river bottom in 9 feet of water.

1000 Islands
Oswego ‐ Jun 14, 2016

Cruised 32 miles over 6 hours. Today’s weather: 43 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 70 degrees. Clear Skies. Wind 7 mph from the W-NW. The temperature is unseasonably cool. Looking ahead at the weather forecast, it looks like the lows will start increasing and the hi’s will finally get to the mid-70’s. 0824 Shoved off from the dock. 0900 Cleared Lock E23 – down 7’, last lock on the eastern Erie Canal. 0955 At three rivers, exit Erie Canal and enter Oswego River at Green buoy 1 1032 Cle [...]
ared Lock O1, down 10' 1158 Cleared Lock O2, down 18' 1214 Cleared Lock O3, down 27' 1318 Cleared Lock O5, down 18 (there is no Lock O4) 1357 Cleared Lock O6, down 20’ 1409 Cleared Lock O7, down 14 1420 Docked at Lock 7 wall just south of Lock O8 There are about 8 boats tied up along the wall this afternoon. Several of the boats have been here several days waiting on a better weather window to cross Lake Ontario. ‘Miss My Money” and “Jill Kristy” both pulled onto the lock wall after Still Waters II. The boats have been leap frogging each other since Half Moon Bay on the Hudson River.

Just Add Water

Just Add Water
Central Square ‐ Jun 11, 2016

Cruised 46 miles over 7 hours on charts 14786, 14788. Today’s weather: 48 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 76 degrees. Skies Cloudy. Wind 6 mph from the SE changing to 12 mph from the W-SW. 0730 Shoved off from wall in a light rain 0732 Passed under E-48 fixed bridge 0749 Passed under fixed bridge 0830 Passed under fixed bridge 0834 Passed under E-50 fixed bridge 0845 Passed under fixed bridge 0850 Passed under fixed bridge 0920 Passed under E-57 fixed bridge 0938 Passed under E-58 fixed bridge 10 [...]
30 Cleared Lock E21 – down 25 feet. First down lock. Much easier than locking up. Passed under E-59 fixed bridge as we exited lock 1054 Cleared Lock 22 – down 25 feet. 1129 Passed under fixed bridge 1135 Entered Oneida Lake 1400 Exited the Lake, passed under E63 HWY Bridge 1404 Passed under E64 fixed bridge, HWY SR 11 1405 Passed under RR Bridge 1420 Docked at Winter Harbor The plan to get across the Lake worked fairly well. Left in the rain this morning and the rain followed us all the way to the lock. Waited about 20 minutes for the rain to stop then passed thru the lock. The wind changed out of the SW as predicted and made for semi-smooth crossing of the lake even though the waves built to about three feet. Sun finally came out after we got docked. The wind is still forecasted over 20 mph for the next couple of days so we will hang here for a good weather window to proceed. Also changing out our batteries on Monday. Hope to leave on Tuesday morning.

Locking
Marcy ‐ Jun 10, 2016

Cruised 36miles over 7.5 hours on charts 14786. Today’s weather: 47 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 65 degrees. Skies Clear. Wind 17 mph from the NW, change to 16 mph from W-NW. 0904 Shoved off from the dock, passed under E-25 Fixed Bridge 0952 Cleared Lock E16 – up 21’ 0958 Passed under E27 Fixed Bridge, 23’ 1007 Passed under E28 Fixed Bridge, 29’ 1024 Passed under E29 Fixed Bridge 1140 Cleared Lock E17 – up 40’ 1146 Passed under 2 Bridges 1230 Cleared Lock E18 – up 20’ [...]
1254 Passed under E34 A/B Fixed Bridges 1317 Passed under E37A Fixed Bridge 1337 Passed under E38 Fixed Bridge – 31’ 1344 Passed under E39 Fixed Bridge 1434 Cleared Lock E19 – 21 up, 1 gate could not open to exit 1454 Passed under E42 Fixed Bridge 1520 Passed under E44 Fixed Bridge 1528 Passed under series of four bridges E44 1533 Passed under RR Bridge 1548 Passed under E47 Fixed Bridge 1549 Passed under E47B Fixed Bridge 1600 Cleared Lock E20 – up 16’, highest point on the Erie Canal 1620 Moored at Lock 20 Wall with electricity Did not plan to go this far today but our stopping point was already full of boaters when we arrived. In fact, one boat was in process of rafting up to another boat when we passed. This caused us to cruise an additional 10 miles and 2 locks.2 locks. We found the Canal Park at Lock 20 empty of boaters and tied up for free moor and free electricity. Weather looks to turn very windy on Sunday and Monday which would prevent crossing Lake Oneida. We have positioned ourselves to make the crossing on Saturday and layup in a marina a few days to rest during the high winds.
St Johnsville ‐ Jun 9, 2016

Cruised 38 miles over 6 hours on charts 14786-73, -72, -71, -70, -69, -68, -67, -66, -65. Today’s weather: 50 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 63 degrees. Wind 12 mph from the W-NW, building to 20 mph during the day. 0904 Shoved off from moor wall. 0905 Passed under fixed bridge E-19/ 38’ 0933 Cleared Lock E-11, up 12’, and passed under fixed bridge 1017 Cleared Lock 12, up 11’, and passed under fixed bridge E-22/ 22’ 1025 Passed Auriesville Shrine 1056 Passed under fixed bridge -24 [...]
’ 1147 Cleared Lock E13/ up 8’ 1313 Cleared Lock E14/ up 8’ 1334 Passed under bridge E-25/ 33’ 1346 Cleared Lock E15/ up 8’ 1500 Docked at St Johnsville Municipal Marina The wind was forecasted to build in the afternoon so we decided to leave and dock after three locks. However, when we got to the docks at Canajoharie there was no room. The three boats had stayed put rather than venture out in the wind. SO we pressed on to St Johnsville. Turned out to be good decision because we are in a little cove out of the wind. And yes the wind is in excess of 20 mph.

Bald Eagle
Amsterdam ‐ Jun 8, 2016

Cruised 14 miles over 2.75 hours on charts 14786-73. Today’s weather: 55 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 66 degrees. Cloudy with chance of rain in afternoon. Winds 12 mph from the W-NW. 0915 Shoved off from the Lock E-8 mooring wall. 0930 Passed under fixed bridge E-14A, 21’ 0942 Passed under fixed bridge E-15, 24’ 1012 Cleared Lock E9 – up 15 feet 1024 Passed under fixed bridge E-17, 23’ 1120 Cleared Lock E-10 – up 15’, and passed under fixed bridge, 21’ 1200 Docked in Amst [...]
erdam, NY, River Link Park With 50 degree temps and 12 mph wind it was a bit chilly today. In Lock E9, the wind blew one boat off the wall. They had to restart their engines and maneuver back into a rope hold position. Then they lost control again. Glad we were not very close to them. In the next lock the wind was causing havoc again trying to hold the lines and keep the boat secure to the wall. We decided to call it a day and live to fight another day.

Commercial Traffic
Scotia ‐ Jun 7, 2016

Cruised 24 miles over 6 hours on charts 14786-78, -77, - 76, and - 73. weather: 62 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 79 degrees. Cloudy with chance of rain in afternoon rain. Winds 8 mph from the SW, changing to 12 mph from W. 0858 Shoved off from dock entered Lock E2 with Ocean Commotion, Willy Nilly, and Avocet. 0930 Exited Lock E2 and entered Mohawk River, passed under 2 bridges as we entered Lock E3 0958 Exited Lock E3 1022 Exited Lock E4 1041 Exited Lock E5 1100 Exited Lock 6, end of the [...]
Waterford Flight of Five 1115 Passed under Guard Gate 1 1118 Passed under Guard Gate 2, they dropped this gate back in the water after we passed 1135 Passed under fixed HWY Bridge – 20’ 1154 Passed under fixed bridge – E7a – 30’, change to chart 14786-77 1308 Exited Lock E7, change to chart 14786-76 1330 Passed Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory 1343 Passed under fixed bridge – 24’ 1405 Passed under RR Bridge – 20’ 1408 Passed under fixed bridge – 21’ 1415 Passed under fixed bridge E12 – 24’ 1421 Passed under fixed bridge 24’, change to chart 14786-73 1500 Exited Lock E8 and moored along Lock Wall The day started out with 4 of us agreeing to leave at 0900 and lock thru together. Everyone was ready and we made our way to lock E2. I will save the details for the blog, but that first lock was a first grade goat rope. Things went well with our flotilla after this first training exercise. After clearing Lock 8 we moored alongside the lock wall for the night. Just about the time that the boat was secured a thunderstorm came crashing down. Supposed to rain on and off throughout the night.

Lock 8
Waterford ‐ Jun 5, 2016

Cruised 27.6 miles over 4.25 hours on charts 12348, 12348-2, and 14786-78. Today’s weather: 66 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 72 degrees. Cloudy and rain. Winds 8 mph from the SE changing to 12 mph from S-SE. 0905 Weighed anchor and proceeded to Hudson River, chart 12348-2. 0920 Back on Hudson River at Red 180 1011 Passed under Castleton-on-Hudson fixed bridge -135 foot clearance, and RR Bridge – 139 foot clearance 1130 Passed under Dunn Memorial Bridge – 60 foot clearance, chart 12348 [...]
-2, entering Albany, NY 1137 Passed under Swing RR Bridge – 25 foot clearance 1145 Passed under Patroon fixed bridge – 60 foot clearance 1207 Passed under Troy-Menands fixed bridge – 60 foot clearance 1223 Passed under Congress Street Bridge- 50 foot clearance 1230 Passed under Large Lift Bridge 1232 Passed under fixed HWY bridge 1300 Passed thru Troy Lock, up 14 feet, end of tidal waters 1311 Passed under 112th St fixed bridge – 24 feet clearance 1321 Passed under bridge and docked at Waterford Town Dock Rough start this morning. Still being plagued by electrical minions. Batteries were showing 12.5 volts but neither engine would turn over. Started the generator to charge batteries. With the extra voltage at 14 due to charging, both engines started right up. Rain followed us all the way to Troy, but stopped long enough to lock thru the Federal Lock at Troy and get docked in Waterford. After the NY State Canal pass was purchased and all were back on the boat, the rain commenced to fall again.

Waterford Mule

On the Hudson with Henry

On the Hudson with Henry
Stuyvesant ‐ Jun 4, 2016

Today’s weather: 67 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 84 degrees. Blue skies partly cloudy. Winds 4 mph from the N changing to 4 mph from N-NW. Cruised 58.7 miles over 5.5 hours on charts 12347 (2), 12347, and 12348. 0915 Shoved off from dock, chart 12347 (2). 1000 Passed by Esopus Island, this marks the end of salt water up the Hudson River 1021 Passed Esopus Lighthouse 1043 Passed Kingston Lighthouse, change to chart 12347 1110 Passed under Kingston-Rhinecliff fixed Bridge 1300 Passed unde [...]
r Rip van Winkle fixed Bridge – 142 feet vertical clearance 1330 Change to chart 12348 at Green 143 and Green 145 1452 Dropped anchor Houghtailing Island Another picturesque run up the Hudson River. River was calm with very little traffic and boaters for a Saturday. Low tide was about 0700, so we rode the current all the way to the anchorage as the flood was building. At one point we were actually cruising at 9.4 knots at 1,200 rpm. Normally, we would get just less than 8 knots at that rpm.
Poughkeepsie ‐ May 31, 2016

Today’s weather: 67 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 85 degrees. Blue skies partly cloudy. Winds 6 mph from the N-NW changing to 8 mph from NW. Cruised 43 miles over 5 hours on charts 12343, 12343 (2), and 12347 (2). 0822 Shoved off from dock, chart 12343 0830 Change to chart 12343 (2) in the channel in Haverstraw Bay. 0947 Passed under Bear Mountain fixed Bridge – 155 feet 1024 Passed West Point 1032 Passed thru Worlds End 1105 Passed Bannerman’s Island, old castle on the Island 1143 Pa [...]
ssed under Newburgh – Beacon fixed Bridge. Change to chart 12347 (2) at Wappinger Creek 1336 Passed under Mid-Hudson Suspension Bridge – 134 feet 1340 Passed under fixed bridge – 167 feet 1402 Docked at Hyde Park Marina Picturesque run up the Hudson River. River was calm with very little traffic. Crossed under Bear Mountain Bridge which functions as Appalachian Trail to cross the Hudson River.
Croton-on-Hudson ‐ May 28, 2016

Cruised 43 miles over 5 hours on charts 12335, 12341, and 12343 Today’s weather: 66 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 83 degrees. Skies partly cloudy. Winds 9 mph from the SW, change to 14 mph S. 0925 Shoved off from dock using chart 12335 1116 Passed under George Washington Bridge, fixed. Transfer to chart 12341. 1315 Passed under Tappan Zee Bridge 1405 Entered Haverstraw Bay 1425 Docked at Half Moon Bay Great weather coincided with great run up the Hudson River. Witnessed dive operations [...]
on the recovery of a Cessna Plane that crashed in the Hudson yesterday. NYC finally gave way to beautiful tree lined cliffs overlooking the Hudson River.

Grant's Tomb
Jersey City ‐ May 26, 2016

Cruised 4 miles over 45 minutes on charts 12327. Today’s weather: 74 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 84 degrees. Skies partly cloudy. Winds 9 mph from the W. 1140 Shoved off from dock using chart 12327 1200 Stopped at Lady Liberty for more pics 1220 Docked at D7 at Lady Liberty Landing Woke up to no power left in the batteries. Spent the morning troubleshooting what might be wrong. In the end could not find a smoking gun. Will continue to monitor. Rafe came over to look at the electrical (he [...]
owned an electrical business) and believes the wiring is sound. He did suggest resetting the inverter. After moving to the marina we were hoping to get plugged into shore power to get the batteries back to float status. Unfortunately, a transformer had blown and the marina was without power. Power came back eventually in the afternoon. We went to the 9/11 Memorial and spent an hour outside looking around and another 3.5 hours in the Museum. The Memorial does a great job chronicling the building of the World Trade Center, the build up to the attack, and the subsequent recovery.
Jersey City ‐ May 25, 2016

Cruised 52 miles over 5.5 hours on charts 12324A and 12327 Today’s weather: 61 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 74 degrees. Skies partly cloudy. Winds 9 mph from the W, change to 12 mph W-SW. 0902 Shoved off from dock using chart 12324 A. Proceed to Manasquan Inlet 0904 Passed thru RR Bridge, narrow with lots of current 0915 Entered Atlantic Ocean, headed north to NYC 1115 Off shore of Sandy Hook, can see Manhattan on the skyline 1324 Passed under Verrazane Narrows Suspension Bridge -215 feet [...]
clearance, enter upper harbor 1430 Anchored behind Lady Liberty. Nice weather with small swells made for an enjoyable cruise up the Jersey coast to NYC. Cat Daddy caught us just before the big bridge. We went over to the Statue of Liberty to take pictures and then anchor for the night.

NYC

Whale of a Tail

Whale of a Tail
Brielle ‐ May 24, 2016

Cruised 62 miles over 7.5 hours on charts 12316A, 12324 (7), 12324 B, and 12324 A Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 71 degrees. Skies cloudy. Winds 5 mph from the N-NW, change to 7 mph S-SW. 0905 Shoved off from dock using chart 12316 A. Admiral at helm headed to Atlantic Ocean. 0934 Turned North up New Jersey Coast 1030 Have spotted 3 whales near Little Egg Inlet 1105 Spotted 2 more whales. One surfaced right beside the boat 1615 Entered Manasquan Inlet 1630 Passed thru R [...]
R Bridge 1635 Docked at Hoffman’s Marina The waves at the Absecon Inlet started at 3-4 feet at an 8 sec period. This made for smooth sailing as we surfed along the rolling swells. Big news today was spotting 5 whales, with one of them surfacing right beside the boat. Had a moment where we thought we would be without a marina slip tonight when the ‘Bee Haven’ hailed us on the radio and reported that the marina was full. We did not have a reservation because the guy in the office yesterday said we did not need one. Called the Marina and they found us a spot. (more FOG) We also ran into John and Ann Marie Tyrell at the marina. Spent a nice evening catching up since last seeing them in Norfolk in 2015.

Manasquan
Atlantic City ‐ May 22, 2016

Cruised 62 miles over 8.5 hours on charts 12316 and 12316A. Today’s weather: 53 degrees at 0900. Hi temp 58 degrees. Skies cloudy. Winds 8 mph from the N-NE. 0857 Shoved off from dock using chart 12316. 0923 Passed under Bascule Bridge -23 feet 0953 Passed under Rio Grande Bascule Bridge -22 feet 1022 Passed under fixed HWY Bridge - 52 feet 1053 Passed thru Stone Harbor Bridge – 10 feet. Transfer to Chart 12316 A 1138 Passed under Avalon fixed Bridge – 34 feet 1227 Passed under Sea Is [...]
le City fixed Bridge – 35 feet 1346 Passed under Peck Beach fixed Bridge – 35 feet 1420 Passed under fixed Bridge – 58 1458 Passed under fixed Bridge – 57 feet 1530 Passed thru Marge City fixed Bridge – 14 feet 1608 Passed thru Dorsett Avenue Bascule Bridge – 10 feet 1620 Passed thru Albany Avenue Bascule Bridge – 10 feet 1635 Passed under fixed HWY Bridge and RR Bridge -10 feet 1650 Passed under HWY Bridge -22 feet 1715 Passed under HWY Bridge – 110 feet 1730 Docked at Gardens Basin Marina in Atlantic City. Started morning by taking on fuel. Left the fuel dock at high tide. This allowed easy passage for the first half of day, but made for some interesting times in the afternoon as we approached low tide. Found less than 4 feet of water at least four times. The mental concentration of trying to stay in the narrow channel and watching the depth really made the skipper fatigued. Between all the fisherman out on a nasty day, low depth, and so many bridges, this was an exhausting day. The Dock Master at Cape May commented that in the months of April and May this year, they have only had 6 days where it did not rain. Also the Dock Master in Atlantic City stayed late to help get us tied up. That was a big help since the tide and current were strong when we arrived.
Cape May ‐ May 20, 2016

Cruised 70.2 miles over 5.5 hours on charts 12311 and 12304. Today’s weather: 66 degrees at 1100. Hi temp 76 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 4 mph from the NW changing to SW. 1345 Shoved off from dock using chart 12311. 1415 Entered Delaware River 1550 Passed Ship John Shoal Light. Switch to chart 12304. 1620 Entered Delaware Bay 1840 Entered Cape May Canal 1905 Passed under fixed bridge 1907 Passed thru open RR Bridge 1914 Passed under fixed HWY Bridge 1920 Docked in Slip 14 at Utsch [...]
’s Marina Cruised at 1,800 rpm today resulting in average speed of 12.8 mph over the 70 miles. Ran fast because we left late due to batteries drained after being out of the water for three days. The electronic breakers were left on which drained the battery due to their direct feed from battery. Needed to get to Cape May today because weather forecast is for high winds tomorrow. The Delaware City marina was booked for tomorrow night so we would have had to travel in the high winds. No thanks.

Splish, Splash, She is Taking a Bath

Splish, Splash, She is Taking a Bath
Delaware City ‐ May 14, 2016

Cruised 40.8 miles over 5.5 hours on charts 12274 and 12277. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 72 degrees. Skies clear. Winds 3-13 mph from the SW. 0930 Shoved off from dock. 1000 When increased speed from idle, boat started vibrating badly. Reduced speed. Looks like STBD engine cutlass bearing has finally began to fail. Had been expecting this, just did not know when or where. 1100 Passed Turkey Point Light, entered Elk River 1130 Entered Chesapeake and Delaware (C&D) C [...]
anal at Red 18, also saw Green Light for entry this year 1245 Passed under Chesapeake City Bridge, transition to chart 12277. 1315 Passed under Summit Bridge 1326 Passed under RR Lift Bridge 1344 Passed under St. Georges Bridge 1346 Passed under old fixed bridge 1410 Passed under Reedy Point Bridge 1420 Exited C&D Canal, Entered Delaware Bay 1425 Entered Bulkhead Shoal Channel 1500 Docked at Delaware City Marina Beautiful sunny weather today. Winds to our back which made for a comfortable ride. Many people out on the water enjoying the day after almost two weeks of clouds and rain. Have scheduled the boat for haul out on Tuesday. (Marina maintenance is closed Monday and Tuesday.) Initial schedule is to rebalance the props and replace the cutlass bearings by close of business on Thursday. Splash back in the water on Friday.

C&D Canal
Havre de Grace ‐ May 11, 2016

Cruised 48.3 miles over 5.5 hours on charts 12278 and 12274. Today’s weather: 52 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 63 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 7 mph from the E. 0845 Shoved off from the dock. Due to the calm conditions and no current, the Admiral backed the boat away from the dock. She then practiced docking the boat two times. 0915 Pulled away from the dock and headed back out to the Bay 1140 Transition to chart 12274 @ Red 36 1445 Docked at Tidewater Marina in Havre de Grace. The [...]
cruise was great today. Very little wind effect on the water left the water smooth. The low clouds added to the subdued setting. Beautiful ride up to Havre de Grace. Started pouring down rain just as we completed securing the boat to the pier, hooking up water, and electrical.

Wrath of the Three Sisters

Wrath of the Three Sisters
Rock Hall ‐ May 10, 2016

Cruised 45.2 miles over 5 hours and 40 minutes on charts 12266, 12270, and 12272. Today’s weather: 53 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 60 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy with 90% chance of rain. Winds 11 mph from the N-NE. 0820 Admiral worked the helm for first time while the skipper pulled up the anchor. Headed to Knapp’s Narrows. 0905 Passed thru Knapp’s Narrows Bridge – 12’ clearance – bascule bridge 0915 Exited Knapp’s Narrows, Entered Poplar Island Narrows 1002 Entered Eastern Ba [...]
y 1200 Passed thru Kent Narrows bascule bridge and fixed HWY bridge 1217 Exited Kent Narrows at Green 1, entered Chester River 1228 Transition to chart 12272 at Red 6 1400 Docked at Waterman’s Crab House Another nice day to cruise the Bay. We ran along the Eastern Shore so the east winds were no issue today. Pretty calm seas at 1-2 feet. Discovered wires rubbing on the port engine shaft during mid-day engine checks. Made temporary repair and fixed when got docked.
Sherwood ‐ May 9, 2016

Cruised 79.6 miles over 8.5 hours on charts 12233, 12164, and 12266. Today’s weather: 53 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 70 degrees. Skies mostly cloudy. Winds 4 mph from the S-SE. Change to 9 mph from the E. 0800 Weighed the rope anchor by hand. Made way to Smith Point. Chart 12233 0820 Entered Chesapeake Bay, entered Maryland 0953 Started to rain – light 1000 Crossed to north shore of Potomac River at green 69A, Point Lookout Light to port. 1044 Passed Point No Point Light 1203 Cross [...]
ed the Bay to the East side at Hooper’s Island Light Chart 12264 1431 Approach to Little Choptank River, finally stopped raining, Passed the 4,000 mile mark in total cruising distance. Chart 12266 1630 Dropped anchor Dun Cove off Tilgham Island Perfect wind direction from the south most of the day made for a very calm ride. Dun Cove surrounded by large southern mansions. My favorite is the one with the duck blind on the point, less than 50 yards from the big house.
Heathsville ‐ May 8, 2016

Cruised 74 miles over 8 hours on charts 12238, 12235, and 12233. Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Hi temp 74 degrees. Skies partly cloudy. Winds 4-14 mph from the N-NW. 0900 Shoved off from dock and entered York River, conditions calm and smooth. Chart 12238 1023 Re-entered Chesapeake Bay, conditions still calm 1108 New Point Comfort Lighthouse to port 1233 Transition to chart 12235 @ Green 1 MH, winds beginning to build 1330 Winds shifted from North at greater than 15 mph. Condi [...]
tions worsening 1400 5-7 foot seas, worst day on water 1500 Lost dingy off of Davis 1630 Past Point Smith Light, conditions improving, only 2-3 foot waves 1705 Entered Ellyson Creek and dropped anchor. As the day progressed the conditions continued to deteriorate. For about two hours we were in 5-7 foot waves with ‘three sister’ waves 7-10. The bow pulpit actually went under water three times. Glad this day is over and we are in a very secluded cove.

Smith Point
Yorktown ‐ May 6, 2016

Cruised 32 miles in 5 hours on charts 12253, 12222, and 12238. Today’s weather: 54 degrees at 0700. Skies cloudy with rain in progress. Hi temp 57 degrees. Winds 5-7 mph from the NW. 0930 Shoved off from the dock, entered the Elizabeth River. Chart 12253 1115 Entered the Chesapeake Bay 1318 Entered the York River 1430 Docked at Riverwalk Landing

It Is A Small World

It Is A Small World
Norfolk ‐ Apr 30, 2016

Cruised 9 miles in one hour 40 minutes on charts 12206 (2) and 12206. Today’s weather: 55 degrees at 0700. Skies cloudy. Hi temp 63 degrees. Winds 9 mph from the NE changing to 11 mph from the E-NE. 1020 Shoved off from fuel dock and proceeded to Norfolk. The 9 miles from here to red 36 at mile 0 is a No Wake Zone so we will be going slow today. 1035 Passed under I-64 HWY Bridge – 65’ 1048 Passed under Gilmore Bridge – 36’ and RR Bridge 1113 Passed under Norfolk & Western RR Br [...]
idge – 135’ 1120 Pulled over to allow a tug pushing a large barge to overtake us 1125 Passed under fixed bridge – 145’ 1129 Passed under Beltline RR Bridge 1200 Docked at Waterside Marina Several boats at Top Rack Marina were staying another night because Waterside Marina could not accept them. When we called yesterday they agreed to allow us to come in one day early. When we arrived at the Marina there were not that many boats in yet. Maybe 10 of the 50 slips filled. I asked about why we got in and learned that there is a sailing club in the Marina, but they are out this afternoon sailing and will be back this afternoon. Our slip did not have a sailboat so we could come in one day early. FOG, thank you Lord. Needed to buy fuel so we took on 184 gallons and got the black water tanks pumped out.

The Good Old North State

The Good Old North State
Chesapeake ‐ Apr 29, 2016

Cruised 47 miles in 6 hours 45 minutes on charts 12206 (4), 12206 (3), and 12206 (2). Today’s weather: 58 degrees at 0700. Skies cloudy with low lying fog. Hi temp 67 degrees. Winds 9 mph from the N changing to N-NE 0815 Weighed anchor, headed back on North River 0900 Entered the North Carolina Cut 0915 STM 50, foggy morning, visibility < 2 miles 0918 Passed under fixed bridge – 65’ 0942 Entered Coinjock Bay 1019 Entered North Landing River, foggy and cool 1115 Entered Virginia at [...]
Green 63 1130 Transition to chart 12206 (3) 1150 Passed under fixed bridge – 65’ 1250 Arrived North Landing Swing Bridge – 6’ for the 1300 opening 1302 Entered Albemarle & Chesapeake Canal, transition to chart 12206 (2) 1330 Passed though Centerville Turnpike Bridge 1343 Passed through Norfolk Southern RR Bridge 1350 Passed under fixed bridge – 65’ 1422 Cleared Great Bridge Lock, lifted Still Waters II 3 feet 1445 Passed under fixed bridge – 94’ 1445 Docked at Top Rack Marina We like this place for the inexpensive fuel and free dockage if you eat dinner at their restaurant. Saw bunches of looper boats on the water and along the mooring stations at Great Bridge. Most making their way to the rendezvous. You can feel the energy and excitement building.
Poplar Branch ‐ Apr 28, 2016

Charts for today’s 80 mile run from River Forest Marina in Belhaven (STM 135) to anchor in the North River at STM 56: 11553 (5), 11553, and 12206. Today’s weather: 65 degrees at 0700. Skies mostly cloudy. Raining. Hi temp 80 degrees. Winds 3-8 mph from the SW changing to 9 mph from S. 0915 Shoved off from dock. Proceeded to Pungo River 1025 Entered Alligator – Pungo Canal 1033 Passed under Wilkerson Bridge 1038 STM 125, canal is 200 feet wide with tree lined shores. 1247 Entered [...]
Alligator River 1300 Transition to chart 11553 at green 45 1315 STM 100, large river several miles wide, wind has shifted out of the north, storm clouds building 1455 STM 85, short front with thunder and rain for about 15 minutes. Storm blew out and now blue skies 1503 Passed thru Alligator River Swing Bridge – 14 feet 1530 Entered Albemarle Sound 1702 Entered North River, transition to chart 12206 1815 Dropped anchor in the North River at mile 56 This was our longest run to date. Had favorable winds most of the day that allowed passage of Pungo River, Alligator River, and Albemarle Sound all in one day.
Belhaven ‐ Apr 27, 2016

Charts for today’s 52 mile run from Cedar Creek (STM 187) to River Forest Marina in Belhaven (STM 135): 11541, 11553 (5). Today’s weather: 65 degrees at 0700. Skies partly cloudy. Hi temp 80 degrees. Winds 12 mph from the SW changing to 14 mph from S-SW. 0745 Weighed anchor, proceeded back to Adams Creek 0818 Entered Neuse River 0915 STM 175, in Neuse River, large body of water 4 miles wide 1024 Entered Bay River, transition to chart 11553 (5) 1050 Entered Gale Creek 1115 Passed und [...]
er Hobucken Bridge 1135 Entered Upper Spring Creek 1144 Entered Goose Creek 1210 Entered Pamlico River, STM 150, port sided land is 3 miles away, STBD side water all the way to the horizon 1236 Entered Pungo River 1415 Docked at River Forest Marina in Belhaven. AGLCA sponsor and 10 % discount. Cruised 6.5 hours with favorable winds most of the day. One stretch in Neuse River was bad for twenty minutes but let up as we got protection from the land and entered Bay River. Docking was a bit tricky in the 15 mph winds with gusts 20-25. The wind was blowing the boat off the dock. But good dock hand got us in safely. Mileage # of Bridges Locks Today 52 1 0 Total 3,707 274 8
Beaufort ‐ Apr 26, 2016

Charts for today’s 57 mile run from Mile Hammock Bay (STM245) to Cedar Creek (STM 187): 11541 (5), 11541 (3), 11541 (2), 11541. Today’s weather: 62 degrees at 0800. Skies clear. Hi temp 76 degrees. Winds 4 - 12 mph from the SW changing to 19 mph from S-SW. 0815 Weighed anchor, headed north on ICW thru Camp Lejeune 0847 Arrived at the Onslow Beach Swing Bridge (11’) for 0900 opening 0904 Passed thru the swing bridge after letting a crimson boat pass thru first 1050 Passed under fixe [...]
d bridge, entered Bogue Sound 1055 STM 225, still in Sound, houses line the shore 1111 Transition to chart 11541(3) at green 37 1310 Passed under fixed bridge -65’ 1330 Passed under Beaufort (65’) and Morehead RR Bridge (Normally Open) 1356 STM 200, rough water due to SW winds off our port beam, entered Core Creek 1443 Passed under Core Creek Bridge (65’), entered Adams Creek 1502 Transition to chart 11541 at STM 190 1530 Dropped Anchor at STM 187 in Cedar Creek Good mix of calm water in narrow water and large water with equally large waves. Nice day cruising until late afternoon. Winds did build to 19 mph as predicted and made for mixed seas.

Bogue Sound
Sneads Ferry ‐ Apr 25, 2016

Charts for today’s 60 mile run from Southport (STM 305) to Mile Hammock Bay (STM245): 11534, 11541 (4), 11541 (5). Today’s weather: Skies clear. Hi temp 74 degrees. Winds 4 mph from the S-SE, changing to 12 mph from the south. 0801 Weighed anchor, north bound on Cape Fear River 0857 Entered Snows Cut 0920 Passed under Carolina Beach fixed bridge 0926 Entered New River @ 295 1002 @ STM 290 transition to chart 11541 (4) 1045 Arrived at Wrightsville Beach Bridge for 1100 opening 1100 [...]
Passed through Bascule Bridge with two other motor boats and 4 sailboats 1136 Passed under Figure 8 Island Swing Bridge -22’, had to drop antennae. We are 23.5 with it up 1330 Arrived Surf City Swing Bridge – 12’, next opening is 1400 1350 Ferry came through Bridge so we got to pass 1418 Transition to chart 11541 (5) 1450 Passed under fixed bridge- 65’, passed by looper – ‘Next Adventure’ 1500 STM 250, back to salt marsh and BIG Homes 1550 Dropped anchor Mile Hammock Bay Another beautiful day to cruise America’s waterways. Most of today was cruised in turquoise colored water due to the number of small inlets to the Atlantic.

Mile Hammock Bay
Southport ‐ Apr 24, 2016

Charts for today’s 64 mile run from Barefoot Landing Marina (STM 353) to anchor near Southport (STM 305): 11534 (4), 11535, 11536, 11537. The run was 64 verses 48 because we choose to run outside in the Atlantic today rather than the inside run up the ICW. Today’s weather: Skies clear. Hi temp 73 degrees. Winds 12mph from the N-NW, changing to 8mph from the east. 0925 Shoved off from the dock. Chart 11534 (4) 0930 Passed under Barefoot Landing Swing Bridge. 0959 STM 350, port side is [...]
tree lined while the starboard side is mega houses 1005 Passed under fixed bridge, out of the ‘Rock Pile’ Hazard 1026 Passed through Little River Swing Bridge 1028 Passed under fixed bridge, noticed lots of locals in smaller fishing boats headed out, decided weather conditions are favorable for an outside run today 1134 Went out Little River Inlet, crossed into North Carolina, transition to chart 11535 and then quickly to 11536 1310 Performed engine checks, ran engines up to 2,600 rpm and cruised at 14.5 knots, also passed STM 325, rolling 3 foot seas 1450 Entered Cape Fear River Entrance at marker green 9, transition to chart 11537 1535 Back on ICW at red 18 1610 dropped anchor at STM 305, red 22 Enjoyable cruise running offshore for about 25 miles. Practicing for future Gulf crossing.
Barefoot Landing ‐ Apr 23, 2016

Charts for today’s 36 mile run from anchor in Thoroughfare Creek (STM 388) to Barefoot Landing Marina (STM 353): 11534 (6), 11534 (5), 11534 (4). Weather today is partly cloudy. Hi temp 79 degrees. Winds 9 mph from the north-west. 0737 Pulled anchor, headed to North Myrtle Beach. Start on chart 11534 (6) 0749 Witnessed Bald Eagle being chased by an Osprey. This is the second time to witness this. Those little Osprey are quit aggressive. 0940 STM 375, the shores are now lined with Cypre [...]
ss Trees. 1000 Stopped to take on fuel 1023 Back underway 1045 Passed through Socastee Swing Bridge with 11 foot clearance. There was a bit of a log jam at the bridge with three boats headed north and six boats headed south. With houses now lining the shore on both sides have to go idle speed to control wake on boat docks. 1117 Passed under Fantasy Harbor Bridge 1124 Passed under fixed bridge and RR bridge 1203 Passed under Robert Grissom PKWY Bridge 1215 Passed under overhead cables, transition to chart 11534 (4) 1221 Passed under Grande Dune Bridge 1241 Passed under Conway Bypass Bridge 1256 Docked at Barefoot Landing Marina

Sweet Caroline

Sweet Caroline
Pawleys Island ‐ Apr 22, 2016

Charts for today’s 60 mile run from anchor in Price Creek (STM 448) to anchor in Thoroughfare Creek (STM 388): 11518, 11534 (8), 11534 (7), 11534 (6). Weather today is partly cloudy. Hi temp 76 degrees. Winds 7-13 mph from the south. 0745 Weighed anchor, resumed north bound journey on Price Creek. 0925 Entered Harbor River, while rounding a bend a dolphin raced towards the wake and jumped completely out of the water. 1030 STM 426, transition to chart 11534 (8) at flashing red 30. 1 [...]
038 STM 425, sea marsh continuing to surrender to the trees, small 6 foot gator swam the river in front of bow. 1048 Saw Bald Eagle perched in a tree. 1110 Entered Fourmile Creek Canal after crossing South Santee River. 1130 Crossed North Santee River, clouds building. 1140 Entered Estherville Minim Creek Canal. 1149 Saw 8 foot gator swimming along side of bank. 1220 Entered Winyah Bay, transition to chart 11534 (7). 1323 Passed under Lafayette fixed bridge -90’, entered Waccamaw River 1332 STM 400, water rough with 2-3’ seas due to the south wind and opposite ebb tide, marsh has given way to land. This next stretch up to North Myrtle Beach is very scenic. 1422 Transition to chart 11534 (6) 1515 Dropped anchor Thoroughfare Creek at STM 388 Overall great day of cruising. Critter watch improved as well as scenery along the shore.

Bald Eagle
Awendaw ‐ Apr 21, 2016

Charts for today’s 56 mile run from anchor in South Edisto River (STM 504) to anchor in Price Creek (STM 448): 11518 (5), 11522 (3), 11518 (2), and 11518. We had a weather delay this morning. We were ready to go at 0800 but had to wait for the fog to lift. You could not see the shore from either side of the boat due to heavy fog. After the fog lifts the weather should be great for another day of cruising. Hi 80. Winds 0-6 mph from the S-SE. 0910 Weighed anchor. Still a bit foggy but a [...]
t least you can see the shore and the sun has burned thru. The first is chart 11518 (5). 0918 Entered Watt’s Cut. Visibility continues to improve. 0940 Passed under fixed bridge, entered Dawho River. 0950 STM 500. Have run into more heavy fog. Stationed a look out to help look for marks, keep us in the channel, and look for other boats to avoid a collision. 1015 Entered North Edisto River. Fog is lifting and visibility returned. Lookout transferred back to the helm. Transition to chart 11522 (3) 1030 Entered Wadmalow River 1145 Routine engine checks revealed that the drain on the port fuel filter has slight leak causing air to enter the fuel system. Engineered a temporary repair until we can buy a repair kit and replace o-ring. 1200 Entered Stone River 1222 Passed under John F. Limehouse fixed bridge 1248 STM 475, starting to see Charleston suburb’s. Transition to chart 11518 (2) 1303 Entered Elliot Cut 1317 Passed under Wapo Creek Bascule Bridge 1322 Passed under fixed bridge. Entered Ashley River 1407 Crossed Charleston Harbor 1420 Passed under Ben Sawyer Swing Bridge 1444 Passed under Isle of Palms Connector Bridge. Transition to chart 11518. 1539 STM 450, great day for cruising, scenery is changing from salt marsh to more tree lined areas 1610 Dropped anchor in Price Creek. This creek runs to the Atlantic Ocean and we can see the ocean 2 miles in the distance.

Price Creek
Edisto Island ‐ Apr 20, 2016

Charts for today’s 60 mile run from Harbor Town Yacht Basin (STM 564) to South Edisto River (STM 504): 11516, 11507, and 11518 (5). Perfect weather for cruising. Was partly cloudy with only a hi of 75. Winds were from the northwest at 8 mph. Just enough breeze to keep cool when the sun came out. 0901 Shoved off from dock and entered Calibogue Sound. The Harbor is on chart 11516 and transition to 11507 once out of the harbor and in the sound. 0958 Passed under the Hilton Head fixed brid [...]
ge – 65’ 1034 Entered Port Royal Sound 1050 STM 550 1105 Entered Beaufort River, transition to chart 11518 at STM 544 1215 Passed under Port Royal Bridge -fixed at 65’ 1255 Passed under Ladies Island Swing Bridge – 30’, also passed Plane 2 Sea who was tied up at the Beaufort dock 1355 Entered Coosaw River 1415 STM 525, water on the Coosaw River looks like glass, water skiers would love this water 1455 Entered Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff, water here was very shallow, found at least three locations with only 4.5’ of depth, most of the cut ran 5-6’, low tide made this run difficult 1535 Finally out of the cut and entered Ashepoo River 1555 Entered South Edisto River 1645 Made the bend and dropped anchor in South Edisto River at STM 504

S. Edisto River
Hilton Head Island ‐ Apr 18, 2016

Start on chart 11507 (3). Took on 200 gallons of fuel at the Isle of Hope Marina before heading out. Transition to chart 11507 (2) while in Skidaway River. Slow go at idle speed pass all the marinas. Transition to 11507 on south shore of Savannah River. Crossed into South Carolina. At STM 565 transition to chart 11516 as we crossed Calibogue Sound to dock at Harbor Town. Had an easy leisurely 26 mile travel day. Pulled into the Harbor Town Yacht Basin on Hilton Head Island. Learned that [...]
the PGA Golf Tournament was just completed here yesterday. 26 Boats left this morning making room for us. Still lots of people around though enjoying the day. We will wash the boat today and sight see tomorrow.

Georgia On My Mind

Georgia On My Mind
Savannah ‐ Apr 17, 2016

Start on chart 11507 (7). First obstacle of the day was to cross the Sapelo Sound. Transition to chart 11507 (4) at Red 38. Continued north and crossed St. Catherines Sound. Transition to chart 11507 (3) at the north end of the Florida Passage. Travelled 53 miles from our anchorage to the Isle of Hope Marina at STM 590. The wind finally began to lie down some and calmed down to less than 15 mph by the time we docked. Still crossed two sounds in rough water, but glad that is all behind us [...]
. Even the clouds left and by day's end we have pretty sunny blue skies. An uneventful day cruising after waking at 0600 to drained batteries. Thank goodness for the generator.

Isle of Hope
Townsend ‐ Apr 16, 2016

Visited Fort Frederica National Monument in the morning by using the dinghy dock. Returned to the mother ship at noon and then pulled anchor. Start on chart 11507 (7). Rejoined the ICW at about STM 665 after cruising the Frederica River. Cruised 23 miles in 20 mph winds and dropped anchor in the Crescent River at about STM 643.

Crescent River
Saint Simons Island ‐ Apr 15, 2016

Start on chart 11489. The weather is really the news of the day. There is low pressure off the east coast that is causing north-northeast winds pounding the eastern sea shore. Winds were 20 mph with gusts 25-30. Made crossing three sounds a bit rough today. Coming across Jekyll Inlet, we saw the biggest waves to date. Most were as high as the bow (7 feet) and many larger. Made for an exciting crossing. After crossing St. Simons sound transition to chart 11507 (7). We still managed to r [...]
each our destination, Frederica Creek by getting in 50 miles. We anchored across from the Fort Frederica National Monument. Plan to dinghy ashore tomorrow and visit the Visitor Center and Park.

Fort Frederica
Fernandina Beach ‐ Apr 14, 2016

Start on Chart 11491 (3) and transition to chart 11491. Managed to leave Jacksonville at 1000 a.m. Made our way to the ICW and headed north along Sisters Creek at mile 740. At STM 735 transition to chart 11489 (2). Continued north on Sawpit Creek until we crossed Nassau Sound. After STM 725, following flashing red "14" transition to chart 11489. Worked our way north along Amelia Island until we docked at Fernandina Harbor Marina at mile 717. Winds out of the north at 15 - 20 mph made for [...]
a long 49 mile trip.
Jacksonville ‐ Apr 7, 2016

Got early start so we could make it back to the Marina before they closed. Pulled anchor at 0700 and arrived at 1500. Completed 290 mile round trip of St John's River.

North bound on St Johns River

North bound on St Johns River
Satsuma ‐ Apr 6, 2016

Loaded the dinghy back on the boat and pulled anchor at about 1300. Cruised another four hours and dropped anchor back in Murphy Creek.
Fort McCoy

Pulled anchor about 0900 and headed into Lake George. After passing navigational aid red 10, turned towards starboard and headed towards Silver Glen Springs. We dropped anchor at about 1100 in 5 foot of water, then launched the dinghy to ride up to the head waters of the spring. Sixty five million gallons of clear water bubble up here each day.

Silver Glen Springs
Astor ‐ Apr 5, 2016

After lunch we headed back north on the river and back tracked the 18.5 miles to Hontoon Island State Park. We waved at Greg and Leslie as we motored by them at the Marina. We continued north, down the river to find a spot to anchor for the night. First stop was taken by fisherman so we kept heading north. Just south of Astor we found a good place to anchor behind a Lungreen Island. Probably saw close to twenty gators today. Also saw one bald eagle and a turkey. Good critter watching day.
Sanford

Left Hontoon Island State Park at 0915 and headed south towards mile 0 on St John's River. Arrived in Sanford at 1235 and docked at Sanford Harbor Marina in the east basin. Walked over to the waterfront and ate lunch at Sanford Steak and Seafood.

Ferry

St Johns River Cruise

St Johns River Cruise
DeLand ‐ Mar 30, 2016

Pulled anchor and set off at 0906. Had to request a bridge opening at the Buffalo Bluff Rail Bridge - clearance 7 feet. Crossed Lake George, Florida's second largest lake. Had to get bridge opening at the DeLand Whitehair bridge- clearance 15 feet. There was a bass tournament getting ready to start with many boats in the water. They let us get pass the bridge before they started. Luckily only 6 boats came speeding by our direction. Saw four gators along the shore, three bald eagles, and m [...]
any osprey sitting on their eggs. Docked at Hontoon State Park at 1730 after a 60 mile day. Plan to stay here six nights.

Hontoon State Park
Satsuma ‐ Mar 29, 2016

Left the Marina at 1015 after eating breakfast at the Metro Diner. We cruised south for 65 miles. We took on 128 gallons of fuel at Dr Lake Marina. Cruised by Green Cove Springs and Palatka before cruising into Murphy Creek to anchor for the night. One surprise in the creek was a large barge with 2 white school busses and an air stream travel trailer. Saw a guy on board who must be trying to live off the grid. Dropped anchor about 1900. The anchorage was great and secluded.

Murphy Creek
Jacksonville, United States ‐ Mar 17, 2016

Wintered at the Ortega Landing Marina, November 2015 - March 2016.

All We Lack is Finishing Up

All We Lack is Finishing Up