OK, it wasn't stormy, but it sure as hell was dark. Yesterday we docked early knowing we would have a long day today (105 miles). I didn't see any problem with making the run to Pickwick lock and marina with daylight to spare. Guess my eyesight is failing. We had three unanticipated barriers that resulted in having to dock at a strange marina in the dark without my ships spotlight (light malfunctioned as we started across the final bay). Barrier 1- Fog prevented us from leaving our dock until 8:30 this morning, 1 1/2 hour delay; Barrier 2- The Tennessee River narrows as you travel south and the current gets stronger, a lot stronger. We started out at 11 mph and traveled the lat 30 miles around 9 mph, 45 minute delay; Barrier 3- the lockmaster directed us to the large lock (1,000 feet long X 110 feet wide). It took 45 minutes for the lock to empty and open and another 30 minutes to fill, 30 minute delay. We docked at 8:00 and I had supper ready in a half hour (beans and sausage).
Tomorrow should be the last leg of this voyage. We have 70 miles to travel and three locks to pass through. The first lock is an 85 foot lift, the highest I have experienced. I don't expect any problem making this run, but I wouldn't bet on that.
The Tennessee River is beautiful and easy to navigate.
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Morning in Tennessee.
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The Tennessee River is pretty much flanked with mountains and some very nice homes.
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Crewhand Mike in his favorite position.
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A spike buck whitetail deer swam across our bow. You can see his wake and head.
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