6-26-14
Trenton to Frankford - Lock 6
We decided to take care of a couple things in the morning and got a late start. Everybody else was already gone when we pulled out.
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Got to lock 1 and had to wait for about an hour to get through. The lock guys are covering more than 1 lock so they have to travel back and forth. We finally got to lock 6 at Frankford and there everybody was. Several boats hanging on the wall so we just joined right in. It was a long walk into town but we needed some more supplies, beer, and the beer store wasn't open in Trenton when we left. Got back, cooked dinner and hung out with all the folks.
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| Diane and Henry aboard the De De that they built. |
The lock walls actually had power outlets. Some do and some don't. Once again the skeeters showed up so everyone buttoned up and hid.
6-27-14
Frankford to Campbellford
We decided to get an early start just to be at the next lock at 09:00. Crawled along and arrived right at 09:00. But no lock master in sight. Finally some kid came out and put the flag up and started to fumble around with everything. He then went back to the flag to try and untwist it. At this point 2 more boats showed up and he still was doing everything but the lock. Finally another guy came out and they opened the lock up. That poor kid would have moved any slower he would have been frozen in time. Pretty bad when even Wendy says something, I'm usually the a - hole saying something. Got through and made the rest without any more delays. Pulled into Campbellford and stayed right in front of the visitors center so we could have a good WiFi signal. The town had a long dock wall right next to a park with showers and restrooms for the boaters.
While we were paying for our dockage, a very nice elderly man said if we wanted to go anywhere that he would take us. He owned the local radio station, 93.7 fm, and of coarse Wendy was all over that. He drove us out several miles to the cheese factory, back to the chocolate factory, and then out several miles to a local beer brewery that was located in an old church. He was quite the tour guide. If you have had a World's Finest Chocolate Bar, we were at there factory place.
EDIT: I finally found their pic.
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The tour in the brewery was supposed to cost a couple bucks but he told them to do it for free and he would give them a plug or two on the radio. We went ahead and bought some more supplies, beer, while we were there. The Church Key Brewery. Beer was pretty good to. After our free tour, we ask him to join us for dinner, our treat. He went and got his wife, came back and we all went out for dinner. Everybody at the restaurant knew him. He even told us that if we were mistreated in this town that he wanted to know about it, he would take care of it.
By the time we got back, several more boats had pulled in including 2 large sporfishers. All tuckered out from the day, it was time for bed.
6-28-14
Campbellford to Hastings
We figured we had better do some laundry before we took off so we walked over and found the laundromat. While they were doing there thing, we walked to the local farmers market and looked around. Got everything done and went back to the boat and decided to get a shower before we left. We were the only one left there Needless to say. Finally pulled out and got to the first lock about a mile away and the Knight Life sport fish was just pulling into the lock. We were curious what took them that long to get locked in, they left a lot earlier than us. We went through several locks throughout the day with them and ended up in the Hastings Marina with them. The ride up was nice.
We also pulled into a slip right next to the De De. Talked to the Knight Life and they said they were trying to get a fuel truck to deliver diesel fuel but wasted an hour to no avail. Apparently the 2 places that sold diesel in the area went out of business.
6-29-14
We got up the next morning and decided to just stay put so we could have a day off from running. We put the dinghy down and rode up into Rice lake and looked all around for a swimming hole but didn't find it. We did find the local kids jumping off of the abandoned RR bridge over the river. Just hung out and relaxed for the day.
6-30-14 till 7-1-14
Hastings to Peterborough
We figured we better find a place to stay for the Canada Day Celebration so we called Peterborough City Marina and got a slip for a couple nights to be off the water for the holidays. They were having a fireworks show and bands in the city park right at the marina. Sounds noisy to me. We putted down Rice Lake and through the canals with only 1 lock to do so it was a nice ride. Peterborough is on a small lake on the opposite side of where the Trent passes through. They have a huge fountain in the lake. After a while of being parked right up front on the wall where all the action was, we ask if they could move us to a slip. They let us go to the end of the dock which just happen to be in front of the Knight Life boat that we saw a couple times earlier.
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We figured we better go get some supplies before the holiday tomorrow when everything is shut down. The marina was filling up with all the boats coming in. Apparently they had a drowning in the canal just above the next lock so the canal was shut down for a long time. When they opened it back up, a ton of boats came into the marina. Tomorrow was going to be a busy day.
The next day we got up and started doing chores that were backing up. Wendy cleaned the inside and did some laundry while I cleaned the outside of the boat and wiped all the curtains down with cleaner. Cleaning the outside of the hull means the dinghy has to come down. Which also means after we are done the dinghy motor comes out. We got everything spic and span and decided to go across the lake to a swimming beach. Got there and the life guards advised us it was a Red Flag day. I was trying to figure out how these 1/2" waves are creating a problem. Then he told us it was because of all the rain and bacteria from run off.
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We went back to the boat but drove through the fountain spray to cool off. It was the hottest it has been so far. When we got back to the boat, I ask the locals where the little river part went that looked like it went next to town and to a hydro plant. They said it went there but they have never been up it with their dinghy, so off we went in search of a swimming spot. About a mile up into it, it came to a small rapids area with rocks so we putted up and got out to sit in the creek to cool off. After a few minutes, we discovered we found an awesome spot but forgot to bring refreshments. In the dinghy and back to get some supplies. Came back to our spot and chilled for a while.
Was a quiet little spot right near the Quaker Oaks factory and it smelled like cookies. Perfect. We sat in the creek for a while and enjoyed the peace and quiet. Decided to head back (We ran out of supplies) to the marina and get ready for the fireworks. When we got back to the boat the crew of the Knight Life said we were needed at A dock for a party. Come to find out, the AGLCA Harbor host, Freya and Don, were having a docktail party for the loopers and visitors. That was pretty nice of them. We sat on the dock and had a nice time chatting with everyone. After that we went over to the boat, loaded up the dinghy and sat on the back of the Knight Life for the fireworks show. Stayed up way to late and partied with the locals. What a great day.
7-2-14
Peterborough to Burleigh Falls
After a 1 am bedtime, we were not moving to fast this morning. But onward we must go. First order of business for the day was to go through, or up, the Peterborough Lift Lock. It was quite the sight and ride to the top. Drive into a big bath tub and they just lift you in the tub to the top, 65 feet.
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We were hoping to be at the back for a view down but a rental house boat was behind us so we went as far forward as we could to avoid being crashed into. Good thing, he ended up kind of sideways in the tub. We had to lock through with him a couple more times, stayed as far up as we could. We were going to stop at Young Point but there was no room on the wall. The Kawartha Voyageur had most of it.
It is a big tour boat that does overnight trips on the canals. It takes up the whole lock. We decided to go to Burleigh Falls but it was several miles away. About half way there a big nasty thunderstorm showed up so we made a run for it. Almost made it. While we were in Stoney Lake, guess it is called that cause there were rocks everywhere, a nasty cell hit. Right before the storm, 2 small boats were going behind us and as I was looking one of the boats outboard just flew off of the boat. Sorry but I busted a gut. It was funny as heck to see. They flagged down the other little boat to get them. Not to long afterwards, 30-40 mph winds and heavy rain. Couldn't see past the front of the boat. We were in a protected area so the waves were not there but the lightening sure was. It was the worst storm yet. Only lasted about 20 minutes and we were right at the lock when it was over. Went to the top of the lock and tied to the wall. Actually had a really quiet spot with nobody around, except the 30 or so kids that came out of the wood work to swim in the lock and jump off of the bridges after closing time. They jumped off of everything over the water.
The road bridge was about 33 feet of clearance to the bottom, but there was only about 8 feet of water to jump in. Didn't seem to bother them. We watched them for a while, cooked dinner and called it a day.
7-3-14
Burleigh Falls to Bobcaygeon
Got up and wanted to be at the next lock, Lovesick Lock, to be through at 0900. Got there and there was no where to park cause the walls were full of boats camping on the wall. Tied up to a side dock and then noticed the sign that said employee parking. Come to find out they have to boat to this lock as there is no road access. We watched around the corner and when we saw them coming, we shoved off their dock. Got to lock through first, everybody else was not moving. Was an easy ride to Bobcaygeon and luckily found a spot on the wall on the bottom side of the lock. We walked into town and did the usual shopping and sight seeing. Everything was really close to the boat so not a long walk to get stuff. We grilled some pizza on the boat and also had a salad for dinner.
Lots of people walking around and down the docks. It was a really nice town.
7-4-14
Bobcaygeon to Fenelon Falls
We decided to go into town before we left for Fenelon Falls cause it was only 15 miles and we have been trying to time our arrivals at the next place to be in the middle of the day. Gives the other folks that are leaving time to go and hopefully
get there before the rush to get a spot on the wall. Some of the locks are right in the middle of small towns so if you don't get a spot on the lock wall you have to go sometimes several miles to get a marina. We arrived just at the right time as there was about a 36' spot right in front of a big trawler and behind a small bowrider. And there was a hydro (power) box right there, with water (not called hydro). Confusing eh. We squeezed her right into the spot and moved the little bowrider up a couple feet. The couple from the big trawler, Omanche, came out and helped. They were a very nice couple and we would talk to them a lot over the next several days. One thing I will say is that everywhere we stopped, someone else was there at the docks to catch a line. Once again we had a nice spot right in the heart of town.
Our lock wall dockage season pass has more than paid for itself. We saw several loopers here and chatted with them.
7-5-14
Decided to stay at Fenelon Falls another day as not to have to fight for a spot somewhere on the weekend. We had a good spot so we kept it.
About mid morning, Wendy went shopping and I stayed around the docks. I was talking to a fellow from Ohio on the Center Console boat in front of us at that point and the Trawler Serenity was pulling out by his boat. Serenity is also a looper headed towards Lake Simcoe. Well, it looked like it was going to be close as he left so I went to step out on the CC boat but tripped on his stern line and ate crap right there. Managed to catch myself half way in the water but not without some carnage first. Got up to see that I tore my left leg on my shin up pretty good. And both knees were bruised also. A huge goose egg popped up on my shin right away. And I was half wet from almost going swimming. Only thing that saved me was my Ninja like reflexes. After everybody made sure I was ok, I went back to the boat to ice down my wounds. After about 2 minutes an elderly guy came over ask me if I could come over and help this fellow out. Well, the owner of the CC boat had tripped on the same stern line and fell also. But he fell and got trapped in his transom door with his leg pinned under him. Took me and another guy to lift him up. Stern line-2, humans-0. Made sure he was ok and went back to licking my wounds. After a while Wendy came back to see me icing down my leg. Bad part was my rib cage was hurting and I was hoping I just pulled a muscle trying to catch myself. The more the day went, the more it hurt. I renamed this joint Fell In Falls at this point. The Omanche pulled out and I didn't almost kill myself helping them away.
We broke out the first aid kit before bed time to wrap my leg up so I didn't bleed all over Wendy's clean sheets. Our picture taking at this point is pretty slacking.
7-6-14
Ate Crap Falls to Thorah Lock #40
After a not so restfull night, figured I might as well be moving while I was hurting cause it hurt to just be still. We left and headed to one of the final locks before the Huge Lake Simcoe. Got to go through, or down this time, the second Lift Lock. We had actually started dropping instead of getting lifted a couple locks past Fenelon Falls. When we pulled into the big pan at the Kirkfield Lift Lock, we were the only boat so I was hoping to pull all the way to the front of the pan for a great view but the lock master said to stop half way in the pan. Oh well. It was not quite as high as the Peterborough Lift Lock but still impressive to see. It was way out in the middle of nowhere.
That creek looking river down below is the Trent Canal. It is very narrow for several miles but we like running the small rivers and creeks at home so it was nice for us.
Most of the canal system at this point is a long straight man made cut through rock with a couple small lakes in the mix.
Any boat larger than 40 feet was ask to call a securitae when entering the canals due to the narrow passages throughout the Trent Canal part. We got to the 4 locks near Lake Simcoe and decided to stay at Lock 40. Several people said it was a quiet place. Pulled up and the Omanche was already tied up, we were right in front of them in Fenelon Falls. 2 other Loopers were tied up at the bottom of the lock. We broke out the grille and made dinner. A while after dinner, Karen from the Omanche said she was going good swimming in the lock so we joined her. Earlier in the day, I requested from the lock guys that they please flush out all the weeds and warm the water to about 80 degrees so we could swim after they went home. It wasn't 80. After a short refreshing swim, my ribs were hurting from swimming or being cold, I bailed out and left the girls to swim.
We opened the hatch and left the door open that night cause we had a good cool breeze coming up the canal. When we were in Burlington Vt, we found an outdoor sporting goods place and got screens for the hatch and door. Used them quite a bit with the cool weather we have had. Did I mention all the cool weather we been having. Upper 50's to lower 60's at night. And 70's and 80's during the day. Could have slept like a baby, if my ribs didn't hurt.
7-7-14
Thorah Lock to Orillia
Knew we didn't have far to go so we lazily got going and had on eye on the weather. 2 Trawlers at the bottom of the lock decided to go out on Lake Simcoe about 1:00 cause they thought the winds would lay down a bit. We had talked to them and decided we would go across with them just to have some company in case anyone had a problem. I went up to get the boat going and noticed my plotter was off, and we didn't turn it off. I guess after 24 hrs of running everything, the batteries were dead. I turned on the inverter and charged the batteries off of the inverter batteries with the battery charger. A few minutes later we were up and running. I usually start the motors before bed time and first thing in the morning, but failed to do either this day.
Lk Simcoe is pretty big, about like our Lake Okeechobee, with a nasty reputation if the winds were blowing and they were out of the SW. They got an early start due to us having to wait for some boats coming up from the next lock but we told them that we would catch up. We entered the lake to find pretty choppy and windy conditions with about 3' waves. We ran our usual 30mph and passed them about half way across the lake. We got near the other side and putted around watching them on the radar and with the binoculars. Have we mentioned how much we love our rough water boat. We pulled into Bridge Port Marina and they went to the Port of Orillia. It was another short day with only 20 miles travelled. We didn't stay in the downtown port cause we had some connections in the area and they got us a great spot in the Narrows. It was a super quiet place with laundry and all. We would have to get to town if we needed supplies but figured we would if needed.
This is the water off of the dock. It is about 8ft. deep and you can see to the bottom. It is weedy but very clear. Apparently the Zebra Muscles cleaned the areas water up.
After we arrived, Dave and Robert showed up and a little while later, Eric came over. I had met Eric and Dave through a mutual friend earlier in the year and he knew we would be going right through these guys home turf. We sat around, checked out the boat and had a few beers. Ate dinner really late and crashed out.
Orillia
7-8-14 through 7-13-14
Our first day in Orillia was a wash out. It was raining in the morning and most of the day. We took turns napping and doing some catch up work on the internet. But, it was kind of nice to just lay around and take it easy. Eric's daughter, Krista, came by and ask if we needed to go anywhere but we were ok to just sleep the day away. She did invite us out for dinner and birthday cake cause it was Eric's BD. They came and got us later and we had a great time out then back to the boat to crash out.
Birthday boy and Daughter.
The next day the sun was out and it was time to get busy. Krista came back and took us everywhere we need to go to get some supplies. We had to go to get some more "supplies" and finally figured out what "LCBO" meant. Land of Costly Booze Ontario. I have been calling it the Ontario Government mafia outlet store but I guess I was wrong. She hauled us all over the place, Wally World, grocery store, where ever we needed. Got back and just mulled around the dock and cooked dinner. It was a nice day.
We needed to get some things repaired and round up some boat stuff so Dave came by and picked us up and took us where we needed. We tore our front curtain several weeks ago and it was nice to get it fixed. It was quite comical to see his guetto truck. A Mercedes Benz. With lawn mower in the trunk and all. It was great of him to take the time to show us around.
After we got back, we hauled down the dinghy and went to check out the lakes. We went to Big Chief Island which apparently is the local hang out. It was a nice place with a sand bottom to swim in but just a little to chilly for us Floridians. We then shot over to the Port of Orillia to check out the town.
Got there and saw the De De boat tied up and getting supplies. Although their supplies look different than ours. They were headed to the Georgian Bay next. We decided to just head back to the boat and go into town another day. The wind was kicking up and we were a couple miles from the marina. We put about 15 miles on Lil Hooker. All this relaxing required a nap to recover. Hung around the dock and took it easy.
The next morning we got going by getting in the dinghy after breakfast and headed back into town. Walked to town and Wendy found the Dollar store and off she went. Oh well, at least it is just the dollar store. We stopped in the local famous bakery, Mariposa Bakery, and it was packed. We decided to skip it and stopped at a quieter place down the street.
Eric and Denise came by later and we hung out on the dock and stayed up was way to late.
After a way to late night, we decided to get going and got in the dinghy and went into Lake Simcoe. We rode around the north end of the lake but didn't want to get to far and get caught in the weekend water rush.
We saw this vacant property for sale on Lake Simcoe. Anybody know who owns it.
It was going good to be a really nice day so the lakes were going to be busy. Stopped by the boat and tried to nap but couldn't so we headed back to Orillia to do some shopping. Met Eric for lunch and actually got to go into the Mariposa Bakery and get something. When I ate it later, we knew why there is always a line in the store. Stopped back by the LCBO store, which is conveniently located right by the marina, and got some more stuff. Loaded it all in Lil Hooker and shot back to the boat.
The Narrows where we stayed. In between Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching, was very busy.
It was a really nice day out and there were a lot of boats running around. We decided to stay in port the rest of the day and hang out on the docks. The couple next to us, Frank and Tammy, were on their boat quite a bit during the week and they were really great folks to be around. It was a really nice day so there were a lot of boats coming and going. Did I mention all the great weather we were having, I think I forgot how to sweat.
After an awesome day yesterday, today looked like a wash out but it cleared up early and was nice again. During the morning rain we started getting the boat back in order to leave tomorrow. Frank loaned us their bicycles so we could go ride the trails toward town. We wanted to take Eric and Dave's family out for dinner to thank them for everything they have done. Dave could not make it but we were able to go have dinner with Eric and Denise.
Our neighbors for the week, Frank and Tammy.
Our stay here was a little longer than expected but with good company and new friends, we didn't want to go. All of the locals were great people and welcomed us into there marina.
7-14-14
Orillia to Swift Rapids
We finally got going and had to get some fuel and a pump out before we left. We have not got any fuel since Rouses Point N.Y. some 700 miles ago. For as heavy as we are running, the 300's are pretty good on fuel. We headed over to the Port of Orillia to get provisions before heading out. Got groceries and stopped by the LCBO, AGAIN. Decided to eat lunch at Studebakers right by the Marina and it was very good. We were going to go to Swift Rapids Lock because everyone said it was a quiet place. We got a late start and was hoping there would be a spot to park when we got there. The ride there was through cottage country and it was very scenic.
We arrived at the lock and had to park on the blue line but no big deal as it was right at closing time and we were planning on locking right through in the morning.
This lock is a remote one with no roads around but several other boats were camped out on the wall. The weather was once again awesome for camping. Have we mentioned how great the weather has been, upper 50's and lower 60's at night.
Saw another great sunset and went to bed.
7-15-14
Swift Rapids to Severn Lodge
Swift Rapids Lock is a newer one with twice the lift as most.
I knew we would be out into the Georgian Bay next and figured Wendy was ready to get off the boat for a couple days. I surprised her by getting a reservation at the Severn Lodge for 2 nights. But first up for the day was the Big Shute Marine Railway. We pulled into the area where to Big Shute is but it was sprinkling and there was a sailboat behind us. We went over to the dock and got out to go get some pics of it in operation and try to be the only boat to get loaded. We also got some video, but it is way to hard to get downloaded with Wifi from the go pro camera. That is one awesome machine. A big travel lift that submerged on one side, they sling your boat, then haul you over the road and down a huge hill to the water below, then submerged and off you go.
It is a must see or even better a must ride on operation.
We got back on the boat and pulled over to the Blue Line for our turn. It was a very cool ride over and down.
The guys really know how to sling every boat possible and many times several boats at once. They were also very impressed with the dinghy brackets and said that they have always wondered why nobody else stored their dinghy that way. One fellow said he wanted to shake my hand cause we were the first ones he saw to do that. They were also asking about the Verados and how they have been, which is perfect.
We were pretty much hanging over the front of the lift as we traveled over the road and down the hill so we had a great view. Once at the bottom, they just drove us right into the water and let us go.
That was cool as heck. Pictures just not do it justice. We were only a couple miles from Severn Lodge and it was still early so we just putted down river and saw the scenery. I knew they were not really set up for transient dockage, but they had a perfect spot for us, we just had to maneuver into the spot.
Squeezed her right in between docks and rocks.
Once we got in, we hauled our stuff to the room for a 2 day break. It is a shame they don't have more dockage for boats cause this would be a great spot to take a break before entering the Georgian Bay and it is about half way on our trip. Only other thing they need is a LCBO. Just kidding.
We hung around the Lodge the next day and just chilled out for some off water time.
In the afternoon we saw this idiot who climbed the tower by our cabin just to get a picture of the lake. People like that are the reason I had a job for 31 years.
I wanted to dinghy around the awesome lakes but someone else wanted to be on dry land.
7-17-14
Severn Lodge to the Georgian Bay
After a couple nights off of the boat we had to get with it again to get to the Georgian Bay. We only had one more lock to go before we could do that, Lock 45 at Port Severn. The last several miles were across big lakes with many big and small cottages on the banks.
As soon as we went through that, it was like being on a completely different planet. The rocks and huge boulders were sticking out of the water everywhere. But it is absolutely beautiful. We didn't have to go far to our first stop, Nautilus Marina for the night. The Trent-Severn was a really great ride. Lots of different scenery from the canals through cottages, big lakes, and all the locks.
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| Yet another great sunset after another great day. |
6-27-14
Frankford to Campbellford
We decided to get an early start just to be at the next lock at 09:00. Crawled along and arrived right at 09:00. But no lock master in sight. Finally some kid came out and put the flag up and started to fumble around with everything. He then went back to the flag to try and untwist it. At this point 2 more boats showed up and he still was doing everything but the lock. Finally another guy came out and they opened the lock up. That poor kid would have moved any slower he would have been frozen in time. Pretty bad when even Wendy says something, I'm usually the a - hole saying something. Got through and made the rest without any more delays. Pulled into Campbellford and stayed right in front of the visitors center so we could have a good WiFi signal. The town had a long dock wall right next to a park with showers and restrooms for the boaters.
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| Campbellford is know as the place where the Toonie was born. This big coin is right in the park. |
While we were paying for our dockage, a very nice elderly man said if we wanted to go anywhere that he would take us. He owned the local radio station, 93.7 fm, and of coarse Wendy was all over that. He drove us out several miles to the cheese factory, back to the chocolate factory, and then out several miles to a local beer brewery that was located in an old church. He was quite the tour guide. If you have had a World's Finest Chocolate Bar, we were at there factory place.
EDIT: I finally found their pic.
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| Our tour guide Dave and Audrey. They were awesome folks. |
The tour in the brewery was supposed to cost a couple bucks but he told them to do it for free and he would give them a plug or two on the radio. We went ahead and bought some more supplies, beer, while we were there. The Church Key Brewery. Beer was pretty good to. After our free tour, we ask him to join us for dinner, our treat. He went and got his wife, came back and we all went out for dinner. Everybody at the restaurant knew him. He even told us that if we were mistreated in this town that he wanted to know about it, he would take care of it.
By the time we got back, several more boats had pulled in including 2 large sporfishers. All tuckered out from the day, it was time for bed.
6-28-14
Campbellford to Hastings
We figured we had better do some laundry before we took off so we walked over and found the laundromat. While they were doing there thing, we walked to the local farmers market and looked around. Got everything done and went back to the boat and decided to get a shower before we left. We were the only one left there Needless to say. Finally pulled out and got to the first lock about a mile away and the Knight Life sport fish was just pulling into the lock. We were curious what took them that long to get locked in, they left a lot earlier than us. We went through several locks throughout the day with them and ended up in the Hastings Marina with them. The ride up was nice.
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| Haven't seen one of these in a long time. They kept going by doing jumps. |
We also pulled into a slip right next to the De De. Talked to the Knight Life and they said they were trying to get a fuel truck to deliver diesel fuel but wasted an hour to no avail. Apparently the 2 places that sold diesel in the area went out of business.
6-29-14
We got up the next morning and decided to just stay put so we could have a day off from running. We put the dinghy down and rode up into Rice lake and looked all around for a swimming hole but didn't find it. We did find the local kids jumping off of the abandoned RR bridge over the river. Just hung out and relaxed for the day.
6-30-14 till 7-1-14
Hastings to Peterborough
We figured we better find a place to stay for the Canada Day Celebration so we called Peterborough City Marina and got a slip for a couple nights to be off the water for the holidays. They were having a fireworks show and bands in the city park right at the marina. Sounds noisy to me. We putted down Rice Lake and through the canals with only 1 lock to do so it was a nice ride. Peterborough is on a small lake on the opposite side of where the Trent passes through. They have a huge fountain in the lake. After a while of being parked right up front on the wall where all the action was, we ask if they could move us to a slip. They let us go to the end of the dock which just happen to be in front of the Knight Life boat that we saw a couple times earlier.
We figured we better go get some supplies before the holiday tomorrow when everything is shut down. The marina was filling up with all the boats coming in. Apparently they had a drowning in the canal just above the next lock so the canal was shut down for a long time. When they opened it back up, a ton of boats came into the marina. Tomorrow was going to be a busy day.
The next day we got up and started doing chores that were backing up. Wendy cleaned the inside and did some laundry while I cleaned the outside of the boat and wiped all the curtains down with cleaner. Cleaning the outside of the hull means the dinghy has to come down. Which also means after we are done the dinghy motor comes out. We got everything spic and span and decided to go across the lake to a swimming beach. Got there and the life guards advised us it was a Red Flag day. I was trying to figure out how these 1/2" waves are creating a problem. Then he told us it was because of all the rain and bacteria from run off.
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| On the way back we found this little guy. Wendy wanted to try and feed him too but I sped off. |
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| I knew that "growler" of beer would come in handy. |
7-2-14
Peterborough to Burleigh Falls
After a 1 am bedtime, we were not moving to fast this morning. But onward we must go. First order of business for the day was to go through, or up, the Peterborough Lift Lock. It was quite the sight and ride to the top. Drive into a big bath tub and they just lift you in the tub to the top, 65 feet.
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| This gate is holding back the canal water. When we get to the top they lay the gate down and we drive over it. |
We were hoping to be at the back for a view down but a rental house boat was behind us so we went as far forward as we could to avoid being crashed into. Good thing, he ended up kind of sideways in the tub. We had to lock through with him a couple more times, stayed as far up as we could. We were going to stop at Young Point but there was no room on the wall. The Kawartha Voyageur had most of it.
It is a big tour boat that does overnight trips on the canals. It takes up the whole lock. We decided to go to Burleigh Falls but it was several miles away. About half way there a big nasty thunderstorm showed up so we made a run for it. Almost made it. While we were in Stoney Lake, guess it is called that cause there were rocks everywhere, a nasty cell hit. Right before the storm, 2 small boats were going behind us and as I was looking one of the boats outboard just flew off of the boat. Sorry but I busted a gut. It was funny as heck to see. They flagged down the other little boat to get them. Not to long afterwards, 30-40 mph winds and heavy rain. Couldn't see past the front of the boat. We were in a protected area so the waves were not there but the lightening sure was. It was the worst storm yet. Only lasted about 20 minutes and we were right at the lock when it was over. Went to the top of the lock and tied to the wall. Actually had a really quiet spot with nobody around, except the 30 or so kids that came out of the wood work to swim in the lock and jump off of the bridges after closing time. They jumped off of everything over the water.
The road bridge was about 33 feet of clearance to the bottom, but there was only about 8 feet of water to jump in. Didn't seem to bother them. We watched them for a while, cooked dinner and called it a day.
7-3-14
Burleigh Falls to Bobcaygeon
Got up and wanted to be at the next lock, Lovesick Lock, to be through at 0900. Got there and there was no where to park cause the walls were full of boats camping on the wall. Tied up to a side dock and then noticed the sign that said employee parking. Come to find out they have to boat to this lock as there is no road access. We watched around the corner and when we saw them coming, we shoved off their dock. Got to lock through first, everybody else was not moving. Was an easy ride to Bobcaygeon and luckily found a spot on the wall on the bottom side of the lock. We walked into town and did the usual shopping and sight seeing. Everything was really close to the boat so not a long walk to get stuff. We grilled some pizza on the boat and also had a salad for dinner.
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| That building is a really big shoe store, Bigley. |
7-4-14
Bobcaygeon to Fenelon Falls
We decided to go into town before we left for Fenelon Falls cause it was only 15 miles and we have been trying to time our arrivals at the next place to be in the middle of the day. Gives the other folks that are leaving time to go and hopefully
get there before the rush to get a spot on the wall. Some of the locks are right in the middle of small towns so if you don't get a spot on the lock wall you have to go sometimes several miles to get a marina. We arrived just at the right time as there was about a 36' spot right in front of a big trawler and behind a small bowrider. And there was a hydro (power) box right there, with water (not called hydro). Confusing eh. We squeezed her right into the spot and moved the little bowrider up a couple feet. The couple from the big trawler, Omanche, came out and helped. They were a very nice couple and we would talk to them a lot over the next several days. One thing I will say is that everywhere we stopped, someone else was there at the docks to catch a line. Once again we had a nice spot right in the heart of town.
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| The end of another beautiful day. |
7-5-14
Decided to stay at Fenelon Falls another day as not to have to fight for a spot somewhere on the weekend. We had a good spot so we kept it.
About mid morning, Wendy went shopping and I stayed around the docks. I was talking to a fellow from Ohio on the Center Console boat in front of us at that point and the Trawler Serenity was pulling out by his boat. Serenity is also a looper headed towards Lake Simcoe. Well, it looked like it was going to be close as he left so I went to step out on the CC boat but tripped on his stern line and ate crap right there. Managed to catch myself half way in the water but not without some carnage first. Got up to see that I tore my left leg on my shin up pretty good. And both knees were bruised also. A huge goose egg popped up on my shin right away. And I was half wet from almost going swimming. Only thing that saved me was my Ninja like reflexes. After everybody made sure I was ok, I went back to the boat to ice down my wounds. After about 2 minutes an elderly guy came over ask me if I could come over and help this fellow out. Well, the owner of the CC boat had tripped on the same stern line and fell also. But he fell and got trapped in his transom door with his leg pinned under him. Took me and another guy to lift him up. Stern line-2, humans-0. Made sure he was ok and went back to licking my wounds. After a while Wendy came back to see me icing down my leg. Bad part was my rib cage was hurting and I was hoping I just pulled a muscle trying to catch myself. The more the day went, the more it hurt. I renamed this joint Fell In Falls at this point. The Omanche pulled out and I didn't almost kill myself helping them away.
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| The Kawartha Voyageur came plowing through also. |
We broke out the first aid kit before bed time to wrap my leg up so I didn't bleed all over Wendy's clean sheets. Our picture taking at this point is pretty slacking.
7-6-14
Ate Crap Falls to Thorah Lock #40
After a not so restfull night, figured I might as well be moving while I was hurting cause it hurt to just be still. We left and headed to one of the final locks before the Huge Lake Simcoe. Got to go through, or down this time, the second Lift Lock. We had actually started dropping instead of getting lifted a couple locks past Fenelon Falls. When we pulled into the big pan at the Kirkfield Lift Lock, we were the only boat so I was hoping to pull all the way to the front of the pan for a great view but the lock master said to stop half way in the pan. Oh well. It was not quite as high as the Peterborough Lift Lock but still impressive to see. It was way out in the middle of nowhere.
That creek looking river down below is the Trent Canal. It is very narrow for several miles but we like running the small rivers and creeks at home so it was nice for us.
Most of the canal system at this point is a long straight man made cut through rock with a couple small lakes in the mix.
Any boat larger than 40 feet was ask to call a securitae when entering the canals due to the narrow passages throughout the Trent Canal part. We got to the 4 locks near Lake Simcoe and decided to stay at Lock 40. Several people said it was a quiet place. Pulled up and the Omanche was already tied up, we were right in front of them in Fenelon Falls. 2 other Loopers were tied up at the bottom of the lock. We broke out the grille and made dinner. A while after dinner, Karen from the Omanche said she was going good swimming in the lock so we joined her. Earlier in the day, I requested from the lock guys that they please flush out all the weeds and warm the water to about 80 degrees so we could swim after they went home. It wasn't 80. After a short refreshing swim, my ribs were hurting from swimming or being cold, I bailed out and left the girls to swim.
We opened the hatch and left the door open that night cause we had a good cool breeze coming up the canal. When we were in Burlington Vt, we found an outdoor sporting goods place and got screens for the hatch and door. Used them quite a bit with the cool weather we have had. Did I mention all the cool weather we been having. Upper 50's to lower 60's at night. And 70's and 80's during the day. Could have slept like a baby, if my ribs didn't hurt.
7-7-14
Thorah Lock to Orillia
Knew we didn't have far to go so we lazily got going and had on eye on the weather. 2 Trawlers at the bottom of the lock decided to go out on Lake Simcoe about 1:00 cause they thought the winds would lay down a bit. We had talked to them and decided we would go across with them just to have some company in case anyone had a problem. I went up to get the boat going and noticed my plotter was off, and we didn't turn it off. I guess after 24 hrs of running everything, the batteries were dead. I turned on the inverter and charged the batteries off of the inverter batteries with the battery charger. A few minutes later we were up and running. I usually start the motors before bed time and first thing in the morning, but failed to do either this day.
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| Narrow rocky entrance to Lake Simcoe |
This is the water off of the dock. It is about 8ft. deep and you can see to the bottom. It is weedy but very clear. Apparently the Zebra Muscles cleaned the areas water up.
After we arrived, Dave and Robert showed up and a little while later, Eric came over. I had met Eric and Dave through a mutual friend earlier in the year and he knew we would be going right through these guys home turf. We sat around, checked out the boat and had a few beers. Ate dinner really late and crashed out.
Orillia
7-8-14 through 7-13-14
Our first day in Orillia was a wash out. It was raining in the morning and most of the day. We took turns napping and doing some catch up work on the internet. But, it was kind of nice to just lay around and take it easy. Eric's daughter, Krista, came by and ask if we needed to go anywhere but we were ok to just sleep the day away. She did invite us out for dinner and birthday cake cause it was Eric's BD. They came and got us later and we had a great time out then back to the boat to crash out.
The next day the sun was out and it was time to get busy. Krista came back and took us everywhere we need to go to get some supplies. We had to go to get some more "supplies" and finally figured out what "LCBO" meant. Land of Costly Booze Ontario. I have been calling it the Ontario Government mafia outlet store but I guess I was wrong. She hauled us all over the place, Wally World, grocery store, where ever we needed. Got back and just mulled around the dock and cooked dinner. It was a nice day.
We needed to get some things repaired and round up some boat stuff so Dave came by and picked us up and took us where we needed. We tore our front curtain several weeks ago and it was nice to get it fixed. It was quite comical to see his guetto truck. A Mercedes Benz. With lawn mower in the trunk and all. It was great of him to take the time to show us around.
After we got back, we hauled down the dinghy and went to check out the lakes. We went to Big Chief Island which apparently is the local hang out. It was a nice place with a sand bottom to swim in but just a little to chilly for us Floridians. We then shot over to the Port of Orillia to check out the town.
Got there and saw the De De boat tied up and getting supplies. Although their supplies look different than ours. They were headed to the Georgian Bay next. We decided to just head back to the boat and go into town another day. The wind was kicking up and we were a couple miles from the marina. We put about 15 miles on Lil Hooker. All this relaxing required a nap to recover. Hung around the dock and took it easy.
The next morning we got going by getting in the dinghy after breakfast and headed back into town. Walked to town and Wendy found the Dollar store and off she went. Oh well, at least it is just the dollar store. We stopped in the local famous bakery, Mariposa Bakery, and it was packed. We decided to skip it and stopped at a quieter place down the street.
Eric and Denise came by later and we hung out on the dock and stayed up was way to late.
After a way to late night, we decided to get going and got in the dinghy and went into Lake Simcoe. We rode around the north end of the lake but didn't want to get to far and get caught in the weekend water rush.
It was going good to be a really nice day so the lakes were going to be busy. Stopped by the boat and tried to nap but couldn't so we headed back to Orillia to do some shopping. Met Eric for lunch and actually got to go into the Mariposa Bakery and get something. When I ate it later, we knew why there is always a line in the store. Stopped back by the LCBO store, which is conveniently located right by the marina, and got some more stuff. Loaded it all in Lil Hooker and shot back to the boat.
It was a really nice day out and there were a lot of boats running around. We decided to stay in port the rest of the day and hang out on the docks. The couple next to us, Frank and Tammy, were on their boat quite a bit during the week and they were really great folks to be around. It was a really nice day so there were a lot of boats coming and going. Did I mention all the great weather we were having, I think I forgot how to sweat.
After an awesome day yesterday, today looked like a wash out but it cleared up early and was nice again. During the morning rain we started getting the boat back in order to leave tomorrow. Frank loaned us their bicycles so we could go ride the trails toward town. We wanted to take Eric and Dave's family out for dinner to thank them for everything they have done. Dave could not make it but we were able to go have dinner with Eric and Denise.
Our stay here was a little longer than expected but with good company and new friends, we didn't want to go. All of the locals were great people and welcomed us into there marina.
7-14-14
Orillia to Swift Rapids
We finally got going and had to get some fuel and a pump out before we left. We have not got any fuel since Rouses Point N.Y. some 700 miles ago. For as heavy as we are running, the 300's are pretty good on fuel. We headed over to the Port of Orillia to get provisions before heading out. Got groceries and stopped by the LCBO, AGAIN. Decided to eat lunch at Studebakers right by the Marina and it was very good. We were going to go to Swift Rapids Lock because everyone said it was a quiet place. We got a late start and was hoping there would be a spot to park when we got there. The ride there was through cottage country and it was very scenic.
We arrived at the lock and had to park on the blue line but no big deal as it was right at closing time and we were planning on locking right through in the morning.
This lock is a remote one with no roads around but several other boats were camped out on the wall. The weather was once again awesome for camping. Have we mentioned how great the weather has been, upper 50's and lower 60's at night.
7-15-14
Swift Rapids to Severn Lodge
I knew we would be out into the Georgian Bay next and figured Wendy was ready to get off the boat for a couple days. I surprised her by getting a reservation at the Severn Lodge for 2 nights. But first up for the day was the Big Shute Marine Railway. We pulled into the area where to Big Shute is but it was sprinkling and there was a sailboat behind us. We went over to the dock and got out to go get some pics of it in operation and try to be the only boat to get loaded. We also got some video, but it is way to hard to get downloaded with Wifi from the go pro camera. That is one awesome machine. A big travel lift that submerged on one side, they sling your boat, then haul you over the road and down a huge hill to the water below, then submerged and off you go.
We got back on the boat and pulled over to the Blue Line for our turn. It was a very cool ride over and down.
The guys really know how to sling every boat possible and many times several boats at once. They were also very impressed with the dinghy brackets and said that they have always wondered why nobody else stored their dinghy that way. One fellow said he wanted to shake my hand cause we were the first ones he saw to do that. They were also asking about the Verados and how they have been, which is perfect.
We were pretty much hanging over the front of the lift as we traveled over the road and down the hill so we had a great view. Once at the bottom, they just drove us right into the water and let us go.
That was cool as heck. Pictures just not do it justice. We were only a couple miles from Severn Lodge and it was still early so we just putted down river and saw the scenery. I knew they were not really set up for transient dockage, but they had a perfect spot for us, we just had to maneuver into the spot.
Once we got in, we hauled our stuff to the room for a 2 day break. It is a shame they don't have more dockage for boats cause this would be a great spot to take a break before entering the Georgian Bay and it is about half way on our trip. Only other thing they need is a LCBO. Just kidding.
We hung around the Lodge the next day and just chilled out for some off water time.
I wanted to dinghy around the awesome lakes but someone else wanted to be on dry land.
7-17-14
Severn Lodge to the Georgian Bay
After a couple nights off of the boat we had to get with it again to get to the Georgian Bay. We only had one more lock to go before we could do that, Lock 45 at Port Severn. The last several miles were across big lakes with many big and small cottages on the banks.
As soon as we went through that, it was like being on a completely different planet. The rocks and huge boulders were sticking out of the water everywhere. But it is absolutely beautiful. We didn't have to go far to our first stop, Nautilus Marina for the night. The Trent-Severn was a really great ride. Lots of different scenery from the canals through cottages, big lakes, and all the locks.
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