PROZAC Journal for Tuesday, 24th June 2008
Early rising again
Kingston to Crysler Park Marina, 80 nautical miles
In spite of last night's exploits, we actually managed to cast off at 0430. The weather turned a tad chilly once we got out into the river, but gradually warmed up for a pleasant cruise. We transited the beautiful 1000 Islands with relative ease past Osprey nests and the amazing Singer Castle, until, upon steaming down a fairly narrow channel, the captain suggested that, given our temporarily (we hope) failed depth sounder, we should perhaps rethink that particular channel where a portion read only just over 3' depth in one section. The helmsman assured the captain that it could be navigated since his electronic chart looked safely passable. As is proper, the captain's prudence prevailed and we came about and returned to open water for the wider, deeper route. As we progressed, the captain again warned of shoals, passable on the helmsman's electronic chart, but zigzag we did. After a while the inexperienced helmsman sheepishly asked the captain if, perhaps, through no fault of his nibs, was it possible that the Canadian chart being used by the boss perhaps had depths in meters? Oh! A little time had been lost, but given the strong following current we were making excellent progress.
For a few minutes, the wind was kind and the Genoa was raised - 8.75 knots (over the bottom) was reached - but, sadly, tea time and a loss of wind forced us to furl the sail. We raced on with the engine to Iroquois Lock, where we were held up for about an hour for upbound traffic - a bloody pleasure boat! Once transit commenced, except for handing over the requisite $25, it was over in a flash given the trivial drop of only a couple of feet.
Onward we went at great speed with the following current and safely arrived at Crysler Park Marina at about 1730. A quick headsuck (sic) and watering ensued, when we proceeded to our designated overnight berth - oh my God!, through WEEDS! But, we have another excellent Lloyd Bridges emulator in Lee Jr. - his after-dinner activities were set.
Crysler is an excellent marina with not only great facilities, but free gas BBQs on the premises. We emptied the galley of most remaining perishables and dined on Carl and Jack's fine BBQ bangers and bacon accompanied by Peter's mashed potatoes and sprouts. Surprisingly, only 2 bottles of Shiraz were empied before we adjourned back aboard for nightcaps and blog-writing and posting.
Tomorrow, Seaway permitting, we have a shot at getting home.