Back in Norfolk again

The Dismal Swamp Canal trip went well: there are 2 locks to go through on this route. We got through the first one on Sunday, and arrived at the North Carolina Visitors' Center about 12:30 PM. We could have kept going and made it to Norfolk that night, but thunderstorms were imminent, AND there were no boats tied up at the wall when we arrived!! Last fall on the trip south, we were the last of 17 boats to arrive and raft up at this location! This was a treat; we secured our lines, got Colby ashore for a bit, and then the thunderstorms and heavy rain began. We were really glad to be where we were and to have our enclosure in place. A couple of hours later, some of the other boats from Elizabeth City arrived and were were able to help them get tied up. Five of us spent the night here. What a great stop! Lots of space to walk the dog, clean restrooms, and friendly folks!

Through the second lock the next day and on to Waterside Marina in downtown Norfolk. We had stayed here in the fall. It is a great location; step off the boat and into a city. What an abrupt change from 2 days in the Dismal Swamp! Norfolk is a great spot; lots to see and do, and a beautiful waterfront park. We had intended to stay two nights here, but we have opted for a third. Our friends Dave and Linda on Off Islander, dock neighbors from Stuart this winter, arrived last night. They tell us they have been chasing us for weeks, trying to catch up! We stayed an extra day to spend time with them and to avoid the 3 - 4' chop at the mouth of the bay today.

Tomorrow we begin our trip up the Chesapeake! Approximately 200 miles. Some weather is moving in over the next couple of days, so we will monitor that. We did hear reports of a major storm brewing over the Atlantic, with waves to 18'. Glad we are not out there for that!