We crossed Lake Oneida and then engaged in what I lovingly refer to as Lock-o-Rama. We had 8 locks to do but locking down is much more gentle and easier than locking up, generally speaking. Usually, the biggest issue to contend with is the wind at the top of the lock taking the bow and pushing you away from the wall.
The current was running with us and our speed topped out at just over 8kts. With us scooting along at a fast clip and the locks ready at our arrival, we could travel the 58 miles and do the 8 locks in one day, arriving at Oswego in time for dinner.
The earlier locks had the greatest drop. The last 3 locks were so close together, we never even left the deck between them. We were very lucky and only had to wait about 10 minutes at one lock and saw only a few boats all day going in the opposite direction. We made great progress and arrived at the last lock by about 3:15pm. Some were messy, some were down-right ugly but we were done!
I have to tell you, I almost kissed the lockmaster at that last lock. As I removed my wet, slime encrusted, smelly work gloves for the last time, I thought I’d died and gone to heaven. My fingers were wrinkled and my hands smelled so foul, I was unsure any measure of washing or amount of scented anti-bacterial soap would eradicate the odour, a mix of wet leather and pond scum! Oswego marina was just a hop and a skip away and I called on the hand-held radio to confirm our slip assignment and that we would like to step the mast in the morning.
The boys enjoyed celebratory beers and Ken made the requisite momentous call to Homeland Security, the last of our journey. The next call would be Canada Customs!