Last night we had a "docktail" get together all of us in flux as to what to do about the deteriorating condition of the Erie Canal Locks. The prognosis...grim...doing the loop that way was probably not an option. We found that we were all having the same dilemma, discussing the situation as couples and having the same outcome every time, discuss daily, think about it all night while tossing and turning, get up the next day and discuss again! It boosted all of our morals to know that we weren't individually going nuts over this, we were all going nuts together! In the morning it would be one scenario and by afternoon and evening there were two more scenarios only to be repeated the next day.
ENOUGH!!
So whether individually or as a group in camaraderie the light went on and the decision was made. If we wanted to do the loop we had to approach it a different way. So we decided to ready our boats to make the trek up through Lake Champlain. Today was filled with getting the sanitation systems to comply with Champlain rules, taking down radar masts and making sure we could clear the 17' bridges on the Champlain Canal, last minute groceries and laundry...although we looked pretty relaxed here didn't we??
Gary working on taking down the newly installed radar! OY VEY!!!
The strategy meeting held on our boat tonight with Chuck and Jann missing from the picture. Anyway there are 3 couples and 1 single hander on four boats.
The strategy meeting held on our boat tonight with Chuck and Jann missing from the picture. Anyway there are 3 couples and 1 single hander on four boats.
L. to R. Gary, Ozel and Maryann..Texas, Debi and Bob..boat trucked from Washington State to do the loop and out of camera view, Chuck from Florida.
This is like the Dolphins leading us in Florida...the Canadian Geese coming along side our boats and showing us the way north. A fitting beginning to this trip!
\
\
So tomorrow morning we start our newest leg of this adventure. We will head up the Hudson to the Champlain Canal, Lake Champlain, the Chambly Canal and St. Ours Canals in Ontario and into the St. Lawrence where we will head west to the Thousand Islands of New York, Lake Ontario, the Trent Severn Canal in Ontario, Georgian Bay, Lake Huron and Lake Michigan.
This will take us to places none of us have ever been to and we are excited to get moving again.
It will add miles to the trip but it is the only way. They doubt the Erie Canal will open for two or three weeks, the damage is extensive from the debris and flooding.
Once again...wagon ho!
We need to see a new map with the route outlined. Such fun!!
ReplyDeleteCome on up. Just disable your y valves with ties or remind the handles. Nobody checks macerator hook UPS. State police and Sheriff boats are almost non existent these days. The Coast guard station in Burlington is not interested in boarding boats. Don't over do it...no need. I know Elle and I and that is how I found you. My boat is a 390 Mainship, Mighty Fine. My wife and I have just become full time live aboards. We stay at Pt Bay Marina in Charlotte Vt. Cheapest fuel on the lake. Do not by fuel on the NY side. Up to a$1.00 more per gallon!!. We will be up North when you come through. The Lake is at A RECORD HIGH FOR THIS TIME OF THE YEAR. Watch for debris, especially where rivers enter the lake. Call me if you want local knowledge. 802 233 4290. Craig and Donna Lewis
ReplyDelete