Here we go . . . .
Departure was at 7:20 a.m. Today, we will encounter our first lock, The Troy Lock and then Waterford where we begin our Erie Canal experience. The day started much clearer than previous days and our beautiful countryside views turn a bit more industrial but every bit as interesting and pretty.
We got to the Troy Lock, the first of many to come. This lock is not adequately set up for pleasure craft. The lines that drop down are 75’ apart, which means we could only grab one line to hold ourselves in position. This was a real challenge, especially going through with other boats that are having the same issues. Guess we need a bigger boat.
We arrived in Waterford at their free city dock but the only available space on the wall was at the front and without power. Loren, from Das Boot caught our lines. We settled in and then proceeded to walk down to say hi to the other boats and loopers. Upon doing so, we discovered that Holy Cow and Oh Henry would be leaving at noon. Awesome! As they left, we were untying and moving down to a space under the bridge and with power. Loren was there again to catch our lines.
That afternoon we walked to town across the Hudson to get a few groceries. We don’t want to overstock since we will be entering Canada soon and they have a lot of restrictions on what you can bring in. People have said that they will throw produce overboard.
We had cocktails and talked a long time with Ken and Rhonda of Nine Lives, who happen to be Gold Loopers and had a wealth of knowledge to share with us. Some scared me but mostly it was reassuring and helpful. Loren of Das Boot was another gem of information.
We plan to wait for the majority of boats to enter the lock at 7:00 a.m. in the morning and we will request an opening a bit later with less congestion.
Next stop, the Erie Canal E2 Lock.
See you on the Erie!!