In my last article, I mentioned that the lock of Peoria had been closed for 7 days for repairs. We thought wait 3-4 hours to cross this lock but after 1 1 / 2 hour, the lockmaster informed us that he was ready for us.
The banks of the Illinois River are composed of asphalt plants, coal, etc.. This explains why, during our visit, the boat was covered with a thin black layer both outside inside. It was therefore necessary for me to do household ... yet. Saying that there are people who think they are mostly minors Abitibi-breathing unhealthy air. I hope the people of Chicago and the surrounding areas are aware that their lungs are a little "blackened".
On the Mississippi, we're talking, of course, barges and "Tow Boat". It's everywhere, on both sides of the river and in the middle. It's pretty impressive. A single barge measures 100 feet long by 25 feet wide. The "Tow Boat" which has moved furthest along is 35 barges.
We must be alert. When we see them coming towards We must immediately contact the captain and ask him which side he wishes he meets you. Here's an example: "Tow Boat northbound at mile 56, then this is a PC (pleasure craft) southbound. Captain, is Which Side Would you like us to pass?" If it told us: "On 1 whistle," then we would meet from port to port. He would respond immediately: "On 1 whistle, thank you Captain." I'll post pictures soon showing you the barges are pushed by "Tow Boat".
Navigation on the Illinois River and Mississippi is not remarkable. Only plants and barges. Not much to see. Water is very dirty and there are plenty of floating debris (trees, bottles, tires !!!!!)
When there are no marinas or anchorages possible, then use the remaining resources are either attached to stationary barges. It's something to live. Photos to come. Friday, September 10, we were at Hoopes Marine Service Kimmswick, Missouri. When our boats were properly secured barges along, Fern (a woman aged 85) has summoned all the "loopers", that is to say couples like us who make the big circle (the loop) to a meeting to brief us on what we can expect further, specific locations where we can meet or exceed barges, areas of eddies rather impressive boats that wander from left to right on a few thousand feet, possible places to anchor, etc..
During our stay in Grafton, Missouri, we rented a car and have been visiting the St. Louis arch and its adjacent museum. Very impressive.
For one week, we sailed in company of 4-5 boats. It was very enjoyable. Full of retired people with different professions: pharmacist, computer programmer, police, car salesman, etc..
We stayed 7 days at Green Turtle Bay Marina, Kentucky. We take this opportunity to wash and wax the exterior of the boat (all that is navy blue). Whole job, I says ... you ... Luke and I spent four days to clean our "baby". Fortunately, at each end of the afternoon was we're going to the pool. No, the water was not cold even though it was not hot. It felt good in tabarnouche!
So at this marina, we met a dozen "loopers". Every evening at 17:30 is "cocktail time". We stood in a gazebo at the marina. It was very nice to see some loopers we had seen several weeks ago. The last night we attended a potluck with all the gang. We were about 20 people.
last 2 days we are on Kentucky Lake. Beautiful! Water is much more beautiful and anchors are almost unlimited. I forgot to tell you it is very, very, very hot for 2 weeks. Before yesterday, 101o F to 95o F outside and inside. Is not it beautiful? You can bathe at least 10 times a day so as not to faint.
At our next visit to a marina, I will post pictures from Chicago.
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