The Ellender lift bridge

Today's run of 50 miles, so much shorter than yesterday's, was still tiring. We left Taylor Bayou fairly early since we knew this could be a challenging day. This run begins with a trip through the Port Arthur ship channel, dodging barges and big ships (my shift). Then there's some open water which can be choppy and nasty, but today was calm and nice (Ralph's shift). Only a few miles before the anchorage is a lift bridge that requires at least 4 hours notice to open because it is not usually manned. We had called and asked for a 6 pm opening, but were there early at 5:15. Fortunately, the bridge tender showed up early too, so we were only delayed about 15 minutes. (We watched him park his truck by the tower and climb up several flights of stairs to the control area.) About an hour later the anchor was down and we were enjoying an adult beverage. Aaah!