Ohio River Adventure - 2021

Legend

Boat
Boat - Southbound
Boat: West Bound
RV

Seabrook, Texas, United States ‐ Dec 31, 2021

Woke to fog for the third day in a row. But today we only needed to travel about 30 miles so we waited for the fog to lift. We got underway about 0930. It was a short distance to Galveston Bay where we turned to starboard and headed north up the Houston Big Ship Channel. We saw four large ocean going ships headed south on our way north. As we got further up the Bay, the wind picked up and the waves built to between 1-2 feet. Glad to be doing this today though, because tomorrow will bring 20 [...]
knot winds and 40 knot gusts. Thankfully, we will be safe in our new slip at Seabrook Marina. When we entered the channel to Seabrook, the Kemah Boardwalk was to our port. People having a good time enjoying the Boardwalk. Upon arrival to the Marina, we found nobody to answer the phone or radio. We finally docked the boat at an open slip and set out on foot to find our assigned slip. It took awhile but we finally found the spot. While searching, we met the crew of Dog House. They are from Waco and will start their Loop Adventure in the next two weeks. We went back to our boat and moved to her new home. Turns out to be and end slip, so we can sit on the sun deck and watch the boats go by in the channel. This is working out great to end 2021. To celebrate the end of the 2021 cruising season and the trip to Texas, we walked over to Pier 8 Seafood. When we walked in the fresh fish was on ice behind a counter. We ordered a 2 pound flounder, onion rings, and fries. They fried the fish up and brought it out to our table on the back deck. It does not get much fresher than that.

+13

To Seabrook

To Seabrook

NEBO Captain’s Log
Goat Island, Galveston ‐ Dec 30, 2021

This day did not go as planned. We had fog again for two hours as we worked our way around Lake Sabine. Thankfully, we saw no tows during that two hours of reduced visibility. However, we did see two fishing boats that did not have their running lights on. The first one went right in front of the bow by about 20 yards. Not sure he saw us until he was right in front of the boat. His partner was headed right for the boat, so I blew the horn and he made a hard left as he went flying by the sid [...]
e of the boat. Once past Lake Sabine, the fog lifted and we had a long day of a relentless parade of tows. Had to come to a complete stop twice due to all the congestion. There was a little humor though with all the tows. I hailed a tow on the radio to get permission to overtake him. He responded with “Come on around me scooter,” in his Cajun accent. Then as we approached an hour out from our docking location, the fog rolled back in again. When we arrived at Steve's Landing, we found the water to shallow to land. That meant finding a secondary spot to stop for the night. We motored another hour in the fog and finally found a wide spot in the ICW where we could safely drop the anchor. This spot also is close to a mooring location for tows. There looks to be several tied off waiting for the fog to lift. That should ensure a safe night as their buddies slow down as they pass in the night. The good news to all this is that we are already an hour closer to our final destination at Seabrook Marina. We are running ahead of schedule and should arrive tomorrow afternoon.

+21

To Goat Island

To Goat Island

NEBO Captain's Log
Shell Island, Texas ‐ Dec 29, 2021

Woke to light fog this morning. By the time we weighed anchor, visibility was down to a half-mile. Had the radar running and it showed a tow up ahead. We met the tow in the fog at the first bend. Luckily, Claudia was down below when the tow popped out of the fog and you could actually see him. She came up just as we passed by one another. Good timing. The further we got from Grand Lake the better visibility became. Then we made about 70 miles in another windy day. We passed just south of La [...]
ke Charles then headed to the Texas border at the Sabine River. Entered Texas waters and a few miles later dropped the anchor for the night. We will make another long day tomorrow and get near Galveston.

+15

To Shell Island

To Shell Island

Nebo Captain's Log
Mermentau River ‐ Dec 28, 2021

We made 45 uneventful miles today. The forecast was for 60% rain and 15 mph winds. We got the plus 25 mph gusts, but the rain never found us. We managed to weave our way through the scattered showers. Only once did we get a few sprinkles. We left the Gulf ICW at the Mermentau River and turned north. We went a couple of miles up river to get on the leeward side of an island to try and get out of the south wind. We found a good spot and dropped the anchor for the night. There was no cell s [...]
ervice to be had, so we spent the afternoon and evening engrossed in good books.

+14

To Mermentau

To Mermentau River

Captain's Log
Intracoastal City ‐ Dec 27, 2021

We moved up about a half mile this morning to Rio Fuel, a wholesale fuel distributor. The fuel stop is for tows, but they will fuel pleasure boats between 8-5. We took on 160 gallons at $2.70 per gallon. Diesel is selling around $3.40 per gallon around these parts. That was just chump change for Rio. A tow had just left the fuel dock after taking on 10,000 gallons. It was the tows second stop for 10,000 gallons since midnight. The tow is servicing a dredge nearby to keep them working. All [...]
the workers are back at work after the holiday weekend. The water front was busy as bees, and the tows were back underway. I think I counted 19 tows underway in the 65 miles we travelled today. We also saw an abundance of Bald Eagles today. Stopped counting them after 8 because they seemed to be everywhere. We docked in Intracoastal City for the night. Looks to be a large shrimp boat convention here along with the Shell Morgan 24/7 fuel service. After a night's rest we will push on again tomorrow. Not sure where we will stop tomorrow though, because we put in an extra 15 miles today. We were getting a 1 knot push most of the day and managed more miles than expected. Better go figure out what we are doing tomorrow.

+10

To Intracoastal City

To Intracoastal City

NEBO Voyage Log
Morgan City ‐ Dec 26, 2021

Spent the morning trying to find some diesel fuel in Houma. The Shell Station that was just a few blocks away was closed from hurricane damage in August. The independent station across the street only carried gasoline. The next station also only carried gasoline. I asked the young man at the counter where the closest diesel fuel could be found. He pointed out a Texaco Station 1.4 miles away. Upon arrival on my bicycle, the Texaco Station only had one pump operational. They were in progres [...]
s changing out all pumps from the hurricane. Unfortunately, the station was closed on Sunday, and the pump was turned off. I looked for another station and found a Conoco just two blocks from the young man who sent me to Texaco. The Conoco was closed, but the pump was on. This allowed me to get 5 gallons of diesel and return to the boat. Poured the diesel in the starboard fuel tank and made two more runs to Conoco. Now that we have enough fuel to make Morgan City, time to start the engines and shove off. We only traveled 38 miles to Morgan City so that we can get fuel in the morning. Traveling the last three days, no fuel has been available because everything is shutdown for the Christmas Holiday. Hopefully the fuel station is open for business on Monday morning.

+20

To Morgan City

To Morgan City

NEBO Captain's Log
Houma ‐ Dec 25, 2021

We rose with the sun and got underway about 0800 after verifying the locks and bridges would be operating on Christmas. We had several bridges that would need to be opened and two locks to traverse. Yesterday, the Coast Guard reported that the Harvey Lock was inoperable. This morning no one answered the phone from the Harvey Lock, so we took the alternate route via the Algiers Lock. We had amazingly good fortune ( fog- favor of God) this Christmas morning. We managed the ten miles to the we [...]
st side of New Orleans, two locks, and several bridges, all in about two hours. With that Christmas gift in hand, we are off to try and make the municipal dock in Houma. It will make for a long day, but will be worth the effort. Well, the sunset at 5:10, and with the 30 minutes of dusk, we will be short 20 minutes on arrival to Houma. Docking in the dark. Since this is a city park, the area was sparsely lit which helped land along the wall. We even got power. What a nice surprise. We need some fuel badly, so we hope to make it to the fuel stop at Morgan City tomorrow. Might be running on fumes when we arrive.

+21

To Houma

To Houma

Captain's Log
New Orleans ‐ Dec 24, 2021

Had a nice short 28 mile run to the edge of New Orleans this morning. The wind picked up to 15-20 knots, and the Coast Guard put out a small craft warning for the Gulf and Lake Pontchartrain. They reported 3-5 foot waves and advised everyone to take cover. Luckily we were traveling along a well protected canal and had less than 1 foot waves. However; just before docking, the Cost Guard put out a safety brief that a 15 foot sailboat had capsized a few miles off shore in the Gulf. Then the [...]
really bad news for us. The Harvey Lock was reported broken. We will have to figure out another way around New Orleans or wait for the Lock to be repaired. Then a little good news. The Coast Guard rescued the capsized sailboater. Then some even better news for us. An early Christmas Present no doubt. The marina slip we had booked was going to be near impossible to dock in with the wind, waves, and current. We decided to go land on the fuel dock which would have been a challenge, but better than the slip. While positioning for the fuel dock, Claudia noticed a side tie slip that was open. We maneuvered in between two sailboats and landed along the dock. After getting secured, Claudia noticed a sign that said, “Private Property, no boat tie ups.” There was a guy on the dock so I asked him if the spot we landed at was normally occupied. He answered that nobody currently was renting the space, but said I should go talk to the office. So I walked up to the office and a young lady welcomed me to Pontchartrain Landing and took my money. After lunch, I will do some research and figure out how to get on the west side of New Orleans with the Harvey Lock closed. I know their is an alternate route, but it usually has most of the commercial traffic and long delays. Maybe with Christmas tomorrow, the tows will take a day off and we can sail through with little to no delays.

+15

To New Orleans

To New Orleans

Captain's Log
Rabbit Island ‐ Dec 23, 2021

Had great weather today, which means we had low wind and low waves across the Mississippi Sound. We passed by both Biloxi and Gulfport on our way west. After another 62 mile day, we dropped the anchor off Rabbit Island. Unlike the name of the Anchorage, we were a bit slow. Most of the oxbow has long since silted in and it took two tries to get positioned where we will be both out of the main channel and not go aground in the oxbow. We positioned the boat halfway in the opening of the oxbow [...]
and just on the edge of the channel. Looks like we are in a good position to stay out of tow traffic in the main channel.

+6

To Rabbit Island

To Rabbit Island

Captain's Log
Round Island, Mississippi Sound ‐ Dec 22, 2021

Well, after much debate and prayer, we have abandoned our trip to Florida and are headed to Houston, Texas. The weather was not going to co-operate to stage and cross the Gulf, so we have decided for plan B instead. We think it will take us about 12 travel days to make Houston. Today we managed to knock out 62 miles and got across Mobile Bay. Probably the only true water hazard for the trip. However, we do have to navigate through New Orleans and a couple of locks that get a bunch of tow tr [...]
affic. The Harvey Lock may just be the biggest challenge of the trip. We will rise early tomorrow, and try to get another 60 miles under the keel.

+7

To Round Island

To Round Island

Captain's Log
The Wharf, Orange Beach ‐ Nov 27, 2021

Well the wait at the Convention Center paid big dividends. The wind began to settle down at sunset and the waves followed suit. This morning, there was only a slight breeze and the Mobile Bay waves behaved themselves and stayed less than a foot all the way down the Bay. After three and a half hours, we arrived at the Gulf ICW. We were disappointed that only one dolphin came to play in the bow wake, but that is better than none. We arrived at The Wharf Marina and got settled in our new home [...]
till Christmas. We have rented a car on Monday so we can drive back up to Columbus and fetch our Jeep. We will bring both vehicles back down to Orange Beach, spend the night on the boat, and probably head back to Texas on Tuesday.

To The Wharf
Mobile, mile 0 ‐ Nov 26, 2021

Weighed anchor and made the final push to Mobile. We are stopping at the Convention Center Dock and staying two days. The weather on Friday is not good for pleasure boating so we will make the next move on Saturday and complete this Thanksgiving Journey. A day of rest on Friday will be nice. Hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving.

To Mobile

To Mobile

Captain's Log
Sunflower Anchorage, Mile 78 ‐ Nov 24, 2021

Weighed anchor and headed down river. We made it to the last lock, Coffeeville, and had to wait a bit to get in the lock. The two boats that we anchored near and were traveling with forgot to tell the lockmaster we were right behind them. The lockmaster told us on radio channel VHF 16 that he wished he knew we were there because he would of held the gate. After that small delay we got through the lock and still managed to make our designated anchor spot before dark. We did see a Bald Eagle, [...]
an alligator, and a couple deer during the travels.

To Sunflower
Bashi Creek, Mile 145

Got hauled out this morning and changed the props out. Got splashed back in the water and back underway by 10:00. Transited the Demopolis Lock with no delay and then made way about 70 miles downriver. We needed about an extra 45 minutes of daylight to make our anchor spot, so we ended up traveling at night. Got the anchor set and then prepared for a long cold night with temps dropping near freezing.

To Bashi Creek

To Bashi Creek

Bashi Creek Captain's Log
Kingfisher Bay Marina, 216 ‐ Nov 22, 2021

Got started at first light so we could make Demopolis before sunset. With the overnight rains, the current was running, so we made better time than expected. Actually pulled into King Fisher Bay Marina about an hour before sunset. This allowed us time to take on fuel before settling in our slip for the night. The maintenance team will arrive at 0730 in the morning to come aboard and help get Still Waters II In the slings for a haul out and prop swap. Hopefully, there is no other damage but [...]
bent props. Tomorrow will confirm or refute that thought. Hoping for the best. If all goes well, it should take about an hour to swap props. Then we will pay for the repairs. Then they will splash Still Waters II back in the water. They have a saying at marina yards, “no cash, no splash.” We will then get back under way and figure out where to stop Tuesday night.

+5

To Kingfisher Bay

To Kingfisher Bay

Captain's Log
Windham Landing, Mile 286 ‐ Nov 21, 2021

We, have decided to run the boat to Florida for the winter. To make that happen, we will run down the Tenn-Tom during the week of Thanksgiving and stop at The Wharf in Orange Beach. We will then head back to Texas, for more homeschooling fun. Then return to the boat during Christmas Break. We will then attempt a Gulf Crossing, if the weather cooperates, and make way to Ft Myers. An aggressive plan, no doubt. Unfortunately, the plans got off to a ruff start when the skipper ran aground about [...]
three in the afternoon. We should arrive in Demopolis late tomorrow afternoon, due to our reduced speed of 7 mph. We will try to swap the props in Demopolis on Wednesday morning and get back underway.

To Windham Landing

To Windham Landing

Captain''s Log
Day 52: Return to Columbus ‐ Aug 15, 2021

Well, the 2021 Cruising Season has come to an end. We have returned to Columbus Marina where we will leave Still Waters II under cover. We still need to fetch our props from Iuka and go get the RV in Muscle Shoals. Once those two tasks are complete, we will return to Texas and begin a new semester pouring into the next generation by Home Schooling four of our grandkids. We enjoyed the trip up the Ohio River to Pittsburgh. But now look forward to spending some quality time with family.

+13

Day 52 Captain's Log

Day 52 Captain's Log
Day 51: Midway Marina ‐ Aug 14, 2021

Our first time to ever stop here at Midway. As its name implies, the marina is about halfway to Columbus from Grand Harbor. We had great FOG with the three locks today, Gates were open, green lights were on, and we went straight in and got secured in the lock. Was glad to call it a day at Midway though because the sun was starting to shine brightly and heat the air up. We will travel again tomorrow and hope to make Columbus.

+7

Day 51: To Midway Marina

Day 51 Captain's Log

Day 51 Captain's Log
Day 50: Grand Harbor

Splashed back in the water about 0930. We headed to the Wilson Lock and got to go down as a recreational vessel was leaving the lock. There was a tow waiting at the gate as we exited. Felt fortunate to get to go before the tow. From there, we made way to the Grand Harbor Marina on the Tenn-Tom Waterway, at mile 450. Managed to dodge all the storms and get docked before the final downpour of the day. Then it was off to use the courtesy car to fetch some groceries and dinner at the Outback.

Day 50: To Grand Harbor

Day 50 Captain's Log

Day 50 Captain's Log
Day 49: J & J Marine Services, United States ‐ Aug 2, 2021

A travel packed day. We started by using the Florence Courtesy Car to get to Enterprise Rental Car. Then we drove both cars to J & J Marine Services, and left the rental car at the repair facility. Then drove the rental car back to Florence Harbor Marina. We then started the boat up and made a 5 mile cruise to J & J Marine Services. We had a 2 hour delay at the Wilson Lock, before we could complete the short voyage. We arrived at the repair facility with the lift ready to receive Still Wat [...]
ers II In the slings. After getting her hauled out and set on the hard, it was time to take the rental car to Columbus and retrieve the motor home. Columbus Marina allowed an after hours pick up from their covered dry storage. We drove the RV out of storage and are prepping for the return trip to Florence as we wait for repairs to Still Waters II. The good news on the repair front is the damage looks superficial rather than structural, mostly just gelcoat damage. Should splash Still Waters II In a couple of weeks, but time will tell.

+7

Day 49 Captain's Log

Day 49 Captain's Log
Day 48: Florence ‐ Aug 1, 2021

When we got hauled out we discovered some major hull damage that needs repaired. We decided to move to J and J Marine Services to make the repairs. They are located near Florence, so we moved the boat near the repair facility. We will move to the repair facility on Monday.

+2

Day 48 Captain’s Log

Day 48 Captain’s Log
Day 47: Return to Aqua Yacht Harbor ‐ Jul 29, 2021

We left Clifton in the fog. A few miles later we met a tow in the middle of the channel. Afterwards, the fog finally lifted. We then arrived at the Pickwick Lock with a tow in the lock and recreational vessels waiting both above and below the lock. One of the rec vessels had been waiting for 2 hours. Upon our arrival the lockmaster decided to put us thru the auxiliary lock. After clearing the lock, we landed at Aqua Yacht Harbor to prepare for a haul out and prop change out.

+12

Day 47 Captain's Log

Day 47 Captain’s Log
Day 46: Return to Clifton ‐ Jul 28, 2021

Well another very warm day with heat index at 100. As expected we began to lose speed as the lake gave way to more river like conditions. The last 5 miles we dropped down to 6.2 mph speed over ground as the current began to pick up as the river narrowed. This will make tomorrow’s 56 mile run take more time as we continue to lose speed all the way to the Pickwick Lock. However, we should arrive at Aqua Yacht Harbor and be ready to get hauled out to replace the props on Friday. Hopefully ther [...]
e is no other damage to the running gear and we can return to our normal rpms and speed for the last few days of the cruising season.

Day 46 Return to Clifton

Day 46 Captain's Log

Day 46 Captain's Log
Day 45: Return to Pebble Isle

Was a good day for a cruise, except for the heat index which was up to 100. But we shoved off early and tried to minimize the time in the afternoon heat. All went well and enjoyed the scenery along the Tennessee River. We’re still able to make 7 mph, but that will probably come to a halt tomorrow as we get out of the lake and more into river conditions with current. Time will tell.

Day 45 Captain's Log

Day 45 Captain's Log
Day 44: Return to Paris Landing State Park ‐ Jul 26, 2021

Shoved off this morning and headed down river. We first went from Cumberland River to the Tennessee River via the Barkley Canal. Then we continued down river for 40 miles. Unfortunately, there was little to no wind, 75% humidity and an 89 degree temperature with a feels like 100. Were thankful to pull into the marina and get the electric hooked back up and get the air conditioners on to cool the boat down.

Day 44 Captain's Log

Day 44 Captain's Log
Day 43: Return to Green Turtle Creek ‐ Jul 22, 2021

Another long day to get to Green Turtle Bay. The miles were only 50, but 30 of those miles were into the current on the Cumberland River. We barely were making 5.5 mph into the current which made for a long day. Then near the end, we were entertained by the acrobatic Asian carp jumping out of the water. The entertainment quickly faded when the Barkley Lock Gates swung open and we were attacked by May Flies. After the lock it was only a few miles to Green Turtle Bay and a nice long weekend.

+11

Day 43: Return to Green Turtle Bay

Day 43 Captain's Log

Day 43 Captain's Log
Day 42: Return to Golconda

Cruised just over 100 miles today to make Golconda so we would have air conditioning tonight verse anchor out in the heat. We also stopped at Elizabeth Town and had catfish at the E-Town River Restaurant. While dinning, we watched a tree size log come drift down the river aiming for the boat. Luckily it was long enough to hit the dock first which then allowed the log to just slide down the outside of the boat. After diner, it was another #20 miles to get docked at Golconda for the night

+4

Day 42 Captain's Log

Day 42 Captain's Log
Day 41: Return to Evansville ‐ Jul 20, 2021

Got up and underway today at first light. Need to make just under 100 miles and get through two locks. At the first lock, there were two tows in the que before we got our turn. This cost us about an hour and a half. The second lock went much better, no tows, and no wait. This allowed us to make up some time in the second half of the day. After cruising through Evansville, we docked at the Nu Plaza Yacht Club. One more long day tomorrow.

+4

Day 41 Captain's Log

Day 41 Captain's Log
Day 40: Return to Sinking Creek ‐ Jul 19, 2021

Got off to a slow start today. A tow went by on the way to the lock about the time we were ready to go. Waited another hour at the dock rather than do circles at the lock. Once we cleared the lock we had a good day on the water. Probably saw more tows today than any other day on the Loop the past 6 years. They were thick as molasses on a cold winter night. We did pass into Central Time Zone today, so it will be getting dark around 2000 rather than 2100. Will try for another long day tomorr [...]
ow if we have favor with the two locks.

+2

Day 40 Captain's Log

Day 40 Captain's Log
Day 39: Return to Louisville ‐ Jul 17, 2021

Our overnight guest, Roger Cann, left the B&B about 0900. Then we waited for our turn at the fuel dock to fill up with diesel. Then we left Turtle Creek only to have to wait over an hour to get in the Markland Lock. Just after noon the gates swung open and we were finally underway. When we arrived at Madison, we decided to push on to Louisville knowing we would arrive an hour before dark. As expected, we docked at 2000. Time to grab a bite to eat and plan our shore excursion for tomorrow.

+6

Cheeseburger in Paradise

Cheeseburger in Paradise

Day 39 Captain's Log

Day 39 Captain's Log
Day 38: Florence ‐ Jul 15, 2021

Had a good day on the water. Left Cincinnati around 0800 and made way to Rising Sun. Arrived about 1330 so we stopped and walked into town for a little Mexican food for lunch. We decided to push another 24 miles down river since it was still early and make our final stop in Florence at the Turtle Creek Marina.

+12

Day 38: Return to Florence

Day 38 Captain's Log

Day 38 Captain's Log
Day 37: Cincinnati ‐ Jul 13, 2021

Rained all night and continued to come wave after wave today. Made Cincinnati, 4 Seasons Marina. There is a Jimmy Buffett concert tonight. We plan to go raft with another boat and listen from the water after the next wave of storm clouds pass. Upon leaving the slip I will record our track so that we can easily Dock in the dark after the concert. Will not travel tomorrow as we meet the crew of Long Recess that we met on the water a few days back. Will shove back off down river on Thursday.

+8

Day 37: Return to Cincinnati

Day 37 Captain's Log

Day 37 Captain's Log
Day 36: Augusta ‐ Jul 12, 2021

Shoved off from Portsmouth and made way to Augusta. First part of morning was overcast, and the storm finally caught us and gave us a good rinse. After the storm passed the clouds began to thin and the sun came out bringing the humidity up to 70%. So the comfortable 84 degrees feels like a muggy 89. The trip down river was uneventful, which is a good thing. We are going to go walk the town down and find something to eat.

+8

Day 36: To Augusta

Day 36 Captain's Log

Day 36 Captain's Log
Day 35: Return to Portsmouth ‐ Jul 10, 2021

Claudia went to go visit the Farmer's Market in Ironton this morning. She scored us some homegrown peaches, and her some homegrown tomatoes. After she returned to the mother ship we shoved off the dock and continued our run down river. Got rained on a bit, but the storm was traveling fast and blew by us in less than an hour. We continue to pick up a little speed after each lock. We are now moving at 9.2 mph speed over ground (SOG) with throttles set at 1,000 rpms. We made 356 miles down riv [...]
er this week, so we should make Louisville by ne t weekend.

+2

Mothman Madness

Mothman Madness

Day 35 Captain's Log

Day 35 Captain's Log
Day 34: Ironton ‐ Jul 9, 2021

Shoved off the dock and continued down bound. We had an uneventful cruise and good weather that made for a wonderful day on the water. Only saw a few tows today but much activity along the banks in this area. About an hour from stopping we left West Virginia, and now have Kentucky on the south shore. Landed at Ironton freed dock for the night.

+4

Day 34: To Ironton

Day 34 Captain's Log

Day 34 Captain's Log
Day 33: Point Pleasant ‐ Jul 8, 2021

Shoved off in the rain this morning. Storms were predicted for most off the day. However, once the first wave of rain passed, the skies turned blue and we had a good run down river. We got caught by Long Recess again at the first lock, but this will probably be the last day we hop scotch with them. We will try to meet up with them in person next week in Cincinnati. After arriving at Pomeroy, we decided to go another two hours and stop at Point Pleasant. Got in just before he storm.

+9

Day 33: Return to Point Pleasant

Day 33 Captain's Log

Day 33 Captain's Log
Day 32: Parkersburg ‐ Jul 7, 2021

Put in a long day to try and get some water under the keel. We passed by several places we stopped on the way up river, including: Sistersville and Marietta. We had good favor with the locks and talked with the crew of Long Recess in the first Lock. Hope to meet up with them in Cincinnati. The cruise was dull until it was time to dock. About 15 feet from the dock a strong gust blew up and pushed us smack into the concrete wall. Good thing we had 5 fenders down the side. After we bounced of [...]
f the wall we got secured to the wall while the wind was blowing up a sand storm. Then about a minute of rain. Then back to normal. Hope to make Pomeroy tomorrow.

+12

Day 32: To Parkersburg

Day 32 Captain's Log

Day 32 Captain's Log
Day 31: Moundsville ‐ Jul 6, 2021

Shoved off the dock and made a good 60 miles with 2 locks today. It was obvious the holiday weekend was over with all sorts of activity back in progress along the shores. One surprise was a boat named Long Recess catching us while we waited for the Pike Island Lock. They are Loopers in Progress who keep their boat on Ohio River. They ran up to Pittsburgh for the weekend are now headed home. They will start the Loop in earnest this fall.

+15

Day 31: To Moundsville

Day 31 Captain’s Log

Day 31 Captain’s Log
Day 30: Chester ‐ Jul 5, 2021

After a great weekend in Pittsburgh, we shoved off to start the return journey down river. After making three locks with little delay, we pulled into the Holiday Yacht Club for the evening. With Monday, July 5th, a day off for most folks, there were many small boats running up and down the river. Felt like we were in south Florida with all the wakes. Tomorrow will be better because most everyone will be returning to work.

+7

Day 30: Return to Chester

Day 30 Captain's Log

Day 30 Captain's Log
Day 29: Pittsburgh ‐ Jul 2, 2021

The good news is we made it to Pittsburg with about 8 gallons of usable diesel. The bad news, replenishment of diesel is highway robbery, $4.86/gallon. Such is life. Just glad we made it. The marinas are all full so we will be docking at the Pittsburgh Pirates Stadium free Dock. If this slow diesel pump ever finishes delivering the goods. They are playing the Milwaukee Brewers the next three nights. This should be fun. We will explore the city for a few days, then head back down river.

+15

Day 29: To Pittsburgh

Day 29 Captains Log

Day 29 Captain's Log
Day 28: Chester, WV ‐ Jun 30, 2021

Got off to a good start today, but about halfway through the voyage we struck something under water. We were in the process of overtaking a tow, so had moved to port and was about a quarter the width of the river from shore. We were in 15 - 20 feet of water when suddenly the low level alarm sounded. By the time I glanced at the depth gage it read 0, and then the whole boat lurch to starboard. Turned both engines off, and we began to drift down river. Once the depth gauge started reading aga [...]
in I started the engines and found vibration on the port side running gear at our normal 1,200 rpm. Reduced speed to 1,000 rpm and the vibration was barely noticeable. There was a bunch of mud stirred up where we hit the shoal at 8 mph and plowed our way through. Checked the boat and no water coming inside so we proceeded to Chester where we will sit for two nights and lick our wounds and wait for the thunderstorms to pass by.

+6

Day 28: To Chester

Day 28 Captain's Log

Day 28 Captain's Log
Day 27: Wheeling, WV ‐ Jun 29, 2021

After the fog lifted we embarked on today's voyage to Wheeling. Other than the heat, there really is not much to discuss. We saw more tows pushing coal. I asked one tow pilot where all this coal is going down river and he said New Orleans where it will be loaded on tankers and shipped overseas to China. Our fuel issue seems to be working itself out. We ran both engines on the main generator fuel tank today. Will have more than enough fuel to make Pittsburg in another two travel days.

+11

Day 27: To Wheeling

Day 27 Captain's Log

Day 27 Captain's Log
Day 26: Sistersville, WV ‐ Jun 28, 2021

Trying something new today. Running the port engine off of the Main Generator fuel tank. Seemed to work well after checking the lineup several times while underway. The water has cleared up and is no longer muddy, now a much prettier clear green color. This is our warmest day of the year, with temps in low 90's. We docked at Sistersville's free courtesy dock and there is a Dairy Queen Grill and Chill in sight. We are headed over to go cool off and chill.

+4

Day 26:To Sistersville

Day 26 Captain’s Log

Day 26 Captain’s Log
Day 25: Marietta ‐ Jun 25, 2021

Weighed anchor and headed to the Belleville Lock. Upon arrival, there were 3 tows waiting to pass through the lock with one tow in the lock. It looked like it might be a long wait. However, the lockmaster made the Auxiliary Chamber ready and we went right through the lock. Love the Ohio Lock System with these two locks. We then stopped at Blennerhassett Island to tour the Most Magnificent Mansion in the Ohio River Valley. From there, it was a short two hours to Marietta, the first settlemen [...]
t in the Northwest Territory.

+11

Day 25: To Marietta

Passing Tow

Day 25 Captain's Log

Day 25 Captain's Log
Day 24: Buffington Island ‐ Jun 24, 2021

Had fun cruise. After shoving off we cruised about 2 hours and stopped in Pomeroy at a McDonald's Dock. Went inside for a morning snack while we waited for Pizza Hut to open at 1030 so we could make a carry out order. Got our meat lovers stuffed crust pizza at 1045 and went back to the boat. We shoved off and went about 2 hours again to the Racine Lock. The Lockmaster put us through the Auxiliary Lock while he also pushed a tow through the Main Chamber. Then we dropped anchor about 1600.

+10

Day 24: To Buffington Island

Day 24 Captain's Log

Day 24 Captain's Log
Day 23: Point Pleasant ‐ Jun 23, 2021

The cool air and warm water made for a thick morning blanket of fog. By 0800, the fog was thin enough to see the bridge so we started the engines and shoved off the dock. Pleasant cruise passing many small towns along the way today. A tow was trailing us for the first 26 miles. When we arrived at the lock, the tow got head of the line privileges, so we waited in the broken small chamber. After locking through we cruised on up to Point Pleasant and landed on their free dock.

+15

Day 23: To Point Pleasant

Day 23 Captain's Log

Day 23 Captain's Log
Day 22: Huntington ‐ Jun 22, 2021

Left Portsmouth with goal of making it to Huntington. When we arrived at the Greenup Lock, we had to wait on one down bound tow to clear the lock. That took about an hour. We then decided to go to Holiday Point Marina to pump out because we were making good speed at 7 mph. After leaving the marina, the next Dam must of opened more gates because our speed dropped to about 5.5 mph. That next 34 miles were a long grind into the current. We finally arrived at Adam's Landing to conclude the day.

+22

Day 22: To Adam's Landing

Day 22 Captain's Log

Day 22 Captain's Log
Day 21: Portsmouth, Ohio ‐ Jun 19, 2021

Survived a blowing thunderstorm that lasted till midnight. Some extremely heavy winds caused three foot waves in the river. Broke the gang plank off the floating dock. No going ashore this morning, so we shoved off just before the next round of showers this morning. Rain stayed with us most of the morning. Visibility less than half mile most of the time. Began to clear a bit and was calm when we landed in Portsmouth at the Shawnee Boat Club.

+9

Day 21: To Portsmouth

Paint the Town Red

Paint the Town Red

Day 21 Captain's Log

Day 21 Captain's Log
Day 20: Maysville, Kentucky ‐ Jun 18, 2021

Shoved off from Cincinnati with hope of getting through the Melhadl Lock. The main chamber is closed for maintenance, and all traffic is using the auxiliary chamber. We were anticipating a long delay because there has been at least 3 tows backed up at the lock for the last few days. However, when we arrived there were no tows and we went right in the lock. With that success, we decided to make Maysville Free Dock. After arrival, we went and celebrated 6 years of living on Still Waters II.

+16

Day 20: To Maysville

Day 20 Captain's Log

Day 20 Captain's Log
Day 19: Cincinnati, Ohio ‐ Jun 17, 2021

Had to wait a little bit to get going this morning due to fog. The cool night and warm water made for some thick pea soup. When we got underway, we had an enjoyable cruise up river. We passed by the Great Miami River and entered into Ohio waters. As we approached Cincinnati the barge traffic picked up with barges lining both sides of the river for the last several miles. We landed downtown near the baseball field. Go Big Red Machine.

+23

Day 19 To Cincinnati

Day 19 Captain's Log

Day 19 Captain's Log
Day 18: Rising Sun, Indiana ‐ Jun 16, 2021

We were the first of five boats to land on the fuel dock before leaving Florence. The other four were sorta traveling together. They passed us individually further up river as they staggered started from fuel dock. It had been a while since we had a good fast pass and big wakes. We thought we were back in southeast Florida. We landed at the free dock in Rising Sun and then hiked to the ferry to cross the river and visit Rabbit Hash. Topped the day off with Mexican Food from Tequila's.

+12

Day 18: To Rising Sun

Day 18 Captain's Log

Day 18 Captain's Log
Day 17: Florence, Indiana ‐ Jun 15, 2021

Shoved off from Madison without ever getting off the boat. Will have to stop back here on the way back down river. Off towards Florence today. A short trip by mileage, but going to be long on time because the current is flowing and we are not making much more than 5 mph. Passed several interesting small towns, Carrolton had a robust looking dock so we may stop on the way back. Three miles past the Lock we entered Turtle Creek Harbor. Was a tad shallow with the depth alarm sounding often.

+11

Day 17: To Florence

Day 17 Captain's Log

Day 17 Captain's Log
Day 16: Madison, Indiana ‐ Jun 14, 2021

The sun set on our visit to Louisville, so we are now off to Madison. The plan was to stay at the Lighthouse Restaurant and walk around town after our arrival. The first part of the plan worked well, but it appears they did not open the restaurant today. Their is a gated locked entrance between the mainland and the docks. We do not have the code for re-entry so we will just stay on the dock. Guess we will put this place on the must stop list on the turnaround.

+11

Day 16: To Madison

Day 16 Captain's Log

Day 16 Captain's Log
Day 15: Louisville, Kentucky ‐ Jun 10, 2021

Weighed anchor and continued up bound to Louisville. We thought it would be a short day, but were a bit surprised when we arrived at the McAlpine Lock. There was one tow in the lock, two down bound tows waiting, and one up bound tow waiting. The lock master put us at the end of the que and we had to wait 3.5 hours for our turn. Once out of the lock it was just a few miles to the free docks along the water front.

+10

Day 15: To Louisville

Bar-B-Que, Bourbon, and Bluegrass

Bar-B-Que, Bourbon, and Bluegrass

Day 15 Captain's Log

Day 15 Captain's Log
Day 14: West Point ‐ Jun 9, 2021

Found an anchorage just 30 miles from Louisville so we left anchor and made 70 miles up river today. Amazingly we began to see many Bald Eagles along this stretch. That was good because there was not much else to look at other than miles of tree lined shores. The terrain is getting more hilly, so hopefully that trend continues. We only saw one fisherman out on the water today and no other recreational craft. We will arrive in Louisville on Thursday and spend three nights.

+11

Day 14: To Salt Creek

Day 14 Captain's Log

Day 14 Captain's Log
Day 13: Sinking Creek ‐ Jun 8, 2021

There are no marinas between here and Louisville so we will be anchoring out the next 2 nights. There are not very many good anchorages in the area either. We did pass a few small towns along the way today, but known of them have a good way to get to shore from the river. We arrived at Sinking Creek Anchorage but did not like the looks of the narrow area. Tried to anchor in the river but current pushed to shore for a soft grounding . Got unstuck and and anchored in Sinking Creek.

+5

Day 13: To Sinking Creek

Day 13 Captain's Log

Day 13 Captain's Log
Day 12: Owensboro, Kentucky ‐ Jun 7, 2021

A dredge was deepening the inlet to the Inland Marina this morning. The dock master helped us shove off and gave some advice for getting past the dredge. Basically the dredge stopped, put some slack in a cable that was stretched across the inlet. The weight of the cable caused it to sink. And then we were directed to motor over the cable. The depth was only 6 feet and the boat's draft is 4 feet. Not much room for error. The crew got over the cable then stopped in Owensboro for the night.

+8

Day 12: To Owensboro

Day 12 Captain's Log

Day 12 Captain's Log
Shore Excursion Evansville ‐ Jun 6, 2021

Visit to the LST 325 on the river front in Evansville.

+12
Day 11: Evansville, Indiana ‐ Jun 5, 2021

Got an early start once we learned the JT Meyer's Lock was empty and ready to receive us. We weighed anchor and made way to the lock. Upon arrival, the gates were open and we motored right in and tied up. It was about a 20 foot step up but a narrow escape as only one gate swung open. From there it was a slow crawl into the current. The river should crest Sunday, so maybe the current will begin to slack next week. Motored past the towns of Mt Vernon and Henderson on our way to Evansville.

+19

Day 11: To Evansville

The Beautiful River

The Beautiful River

Day 11 Captain’s Log

Day 11 Captain’s Log
Day 10: Wabash Island ‐ Jun 4, 2021

Cruised for about two hours and then stopped at E-Town River Restaurant for a Dock-n-Dine lunch. As we arrived a fisherman was unloading his morning catch. We probably ate one of those fresh fish. After lunch it was a long lonely run up river to Wabash Island where we dropped the anchor for the evening.

+16

Day 10: To Wabash Island

Day 10 Captain's Log

Day 10 Captain's Log
Day 9: Golconda, Illinois ‐ Jun 3, 2021

Nice enjoyable run up the Ohio River today. Started out cloudy but sun finally broke through. We were met with open gates at the Smithland Lock and got to go straight in and tie up. Our bollard stuck two times though. Once initially, but the boat floating up pulled the bollard free and it jumped up about six feet and began floating. Then about halfway up, it got stuck again. Then it freed itself and it jumped six feet and began working. The Golconda Marina was shallow, but we got tied up.

+6

Day 9: To Golconda

Day 9 Captain's Log

Day 9 Captain's Log
Day 8: Paducah, United States ‐ Jun 1, 2021

Left Green Turtle Bay this morning and found favor at the Barkley Lock. A tow was coming out as we arrived, got the green light to enter, and went straight in the lock. After riding down 57 feet we headed out towards the Ohio River some 30 miles away. After entering the Ohio River, we swung down river to go visit Paducah for our first stop on the Ohio River. Good news was the port engine ran 180-190 degrees today. Will continue to monitor but all looks well for now.

+4

Day 8: To Paducah

Day 8 Captain's Log

Day 8 Captain's Log
Day 7: Green Turtle Bay ‐ May 25, 2021

Shoved off and before we could get back in the main channel the port engine was starting to overheat. I turned the engine off and we ran north on one engine. Was kinda a boring day headed north on Kentucky Lake. We followed a sailboat all the way north. Other than that sailboat, we hardly saw any body else on this remote area. After arriving at the north end of Kentucky Lake, we toke the Canal over to Barkley Lake and docked at Green Turtle Bay. We will sit here until next Tuesday.

+4

Day 7: To Green Turtle Bay

Safe Boating Week

Safe Boating Week

Day 7 Captain's Log

Day 7 Captain's Log
Day 6: Paris Landing State Park ‐ May 24, 2021

We had a beautiful run on Kentucky Lake today. Unlike last Saturday, we hardly saw another boat on the water. In fact, only one south bound Yacht, no pontoons, and a handful of fisherman were out today. Had a little trouble finding a marina for the next week: first, second, and third picks were already full for the weekend. We ended up securing a spot at Green Turtle Bay Resort. We have been there twice, and were looking for something new, but will enjoy the great amenities they offer.

+8

Day 6: To Paris Landing State Park

Day 6 Captain’s Log

Captain's Log
Day 5: Pebble Isle Marina ‐ May 22, 2021

Had an enjoyable day on the water. We met Charlie McVey taking his 'new' boat south to his home marina at Aqua Yacht Harbor. Only saw one tow today. However, the great weather brought all the pontoon boater’s out today. Wished we would have kept count how many we saw today. We usually had at least five in site at all times. Extrapolating out over the 62 miles we travelled, we saw over 300 pontoons full of people today. That is not counting the fishing boats out running around also.

+8

Day 5: To Pebble Isle Marina

Staging For Ohio River

Staging For Ohio River

Day 5 Captain's Log

Day 5 Captain's Log
Day 4: Clifton ‐ May 19, 2021

We shoved off the dock in some strong SE winds. Once we entered the Tennessee River, we turned to port and got the winds pushing the stern with following seas. We then made way to Pickwick Lock. There was one tow and a pirate ship waiting in the que to lock down. The lock master told us the pirate ship was actually a replica of the La Pinta and to just follow her into the lock once the gates opened. We rode down 55 feet in the lock and then had an uneventful day to the Clifton Marina.

+9

Day 4: Iuka to Clifton

Day 4 Captain’s Log

Day 4 Captain's Log
Day 3: Iuka ‐ May 17, 2021

Managed to clean up the engine room from our fuel spill. Looks like the cause was a partially owned valve in the fuel return line to the generator. Generator fuel tank filled up and spilled into the bilge. We left Bay Springs and headed northbound on the Lake. We then entered a manmade Divide Cut which connects the Tennessee River to the Bay Springs Lake. We saw a112 foot yacht, Gratitude, in the Lake. We saw one tow in the Divide Cut. We also spotted four pigs swimming across the Cut.

+10

Day 3: Aqua Yacht Harbor

Day 3 Captain’s Log

Day 3 Captain’s Log
Day 2: Bay Springs ‐ May 15, 2021

Weighed anchor and continued north. We were greeted by four locks with their gates open upon arrival. After being lifted 84 feet in the Whitten Lock, we headed to Bay Springs Marina to dock for two nights. After checking in, I discovered about 30 gallons of fuel missing from the port fuel tank. Claudia also reported smelling a strange aroma in the salon. I looked down in the engine room bilge and found the missing fuel. Off to find some help to remove the fuel before it gets into the water.

+12

Day 2 - Bay Springs Marina

Day 2 Captain's Log

Day 2 Captain's Log
Day 1: Wilkins Lock ‐ May 14, 2021

Shoved off from Columbus and made way north on the Tenn-Tom Waterway. First day to cruise in 2021 turned out to be a great day. Boat is running good and the weather is picture perfect for a day on the water. When we arrived at the spot we were going to anchor, a dredge operation was in progress and they had equipment blocking the anchor spot. We kept on for another two hours and dropped the hook in a small basin just north of the Wilkins Lock. The stars shown brightly in this remote area.

+8

Day 1- Wilkins Lock

Day 1 Captains Log

Day 1 Captains Log
Columbus Marina ‐ May 8, 2021

Left Texas on Friday and made a two day journey back to the boat. Was a great lesson on God’s provision through delays. (Read the blog for details.)We will launch our cruising season on Friday May 14th and begin our journey to Pittsburgh.

+11

Protection and Provision

Protection and Provision

We left College Station on Friday and made a quick stop at our storage building to put a few things away. We then started the long slog to get out of Texas when we entered Louisiana around 1400, we de...
Anderson ‐ Apr 18, 2021

Took the scenic way back to our home base in Anderson. Travelled through the hill country to Fredericksburg to stop at Wildseed Farms. After a little shopping, we got back on the road and completed the journey back to Anderson.

Wildseed Farms
Garner State Park ‐ Apr 2, 2021

Drove to Garner State Park and stayed in the Shady Meadows Camping Area. We walked to the Frio River Friday afternoon to view the crystal clear water. Saturday we hiked to the top of Old Baldy to take in the panoramic view of the valley below. We took the Old Entrance Road Trail and the Wild Horse Creek Trail on the return. We enjoyed a peaceful camp fire before retiring for the evening. Sunday we hiked the Frio Canyon Trail before pulling up stakes and heading back to a Anderson.

+3
Anderson ‐ Mar 20, 2021

After a peaceful night in the Walmart parking lot, we fueled up at Murphy's and headed to Texas. We had a nice relaxing drive until we arrived at the Texas border. A sign announced that the bridge clearance was only 12 feet 3 inches. Paperwork on the RV States the heights to be 11 feet 10 inches, but does not state where the measurement was taken. The moment of truth came as we slowed down to a crawl and eased up to the bridge. Nothing hit so life was good.

The Devils Backbone - A shore excursion on the southern portion of the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Vadilla, Louisiana ‐ Mar 19, 2021

Left the Columbus Marina and headed over to the Natchez Trace Parkway at about mile 200. Took the Trace to mile 0, then headed to Vadilla to spend the night.
Columbus Marina ‐ Mar 14, 2021

Left Chunky and made the short drive up to Columbus to check on the boat. Hope she survived the winter storm with little or no damage.

Spring Break

Grandkids are on Spring Break the week of March 15 so we decided to perform a wellness check on Still Waters II. After the extreme cold spell a few weeks back we were a bit concerned how she weathered...
Chunky, Mississippi ‐ Mar 13, 2021

The grandkids are taking Spring Break the week of March 14th. We decided to head back to Still Waters II and check in on her to see first hand how she survived the winter storm that passed through and dropped temperatures down near zero for a week. We took the long road and made a stop in Chunky, Mississippi to visit one of the Admiral's cousins. Thanks for the southern hospitality Steve and Cindy.

2021 Still Waters II cruising plan
Anderson, Texas ‐ Mar 9, 2021

Broke Camp and headed back to our home base. We did stop on the way back to admire one of Texas' heroes though, General Sam Houston.

+4

General Sam Houston
Huntsville State Park ‐ Mar 6, 2021

The grandkids had some out-of-state friends who came to visit them on March 8th and 9th. We decided to take the RV out for her first overnight sleep over. We made reservations at Houston State Park, about an hour away from our home base.

+3
Anderson ‐ Jan 2, 2021

Took our first road trip in the RV from Columbus to Anderson, Texas. Will start teaching home school to our four oldest grandkids starting on Monday, January 4th.
Columbus Marina, United States ‐ Jan 1, 2021

We begin 2021 with Still Waters II berthed at the Columbus Marina. Waiting for spring to launch our Ohio River Adventure.

New RV

New to Us RV

We are opening a new chapter in our lives. We have agreed to go back to Texas during the school year and assist with home schooling four of the seven oldest grandkids. We will seasonally cruise on Sti...