We left Catskills early on Thursday morning to take advantage of the tide for as long as possible for our run to the Troy Lock. The Hudson is a beautiful River with high hills on both sides dotted with stately homes over looking the valley. The stripped bass season has just opened and there were fishing boats everywhere. They kept us on our toes as we slalomed around them and debris from the spring run off. It's hard to believe that there is a tide effect right to the Troy Lock which is 140 miles from the ocean.

Our original plan for the day was to anchor just north of Albany and go through the Troy lock on Thursday. The canal system only opens on Friday and we had heard that there was a backlog of boats at the docks and we didn't want to have to anchor in the river. However, we made better time than expected in the beautiful weather so we decided to press on through the lock and take our chances. When we moved Dagny north five years ago we transitted the Troy Lock on a very windy day and it was extremely hard to control the boat in the lock. Fortunately, I had 3 guys with me and we managed to get through unscathed; however, this time there was only the two of us. Not to worry, the conditions were good and our improved boat and line handling resulted in a nice smooth transit. As it turned out it was our lucky day, we arrived at Waterford and found two spots on the wall where we can stay until the locks open. This is the 200th anniversary of the New York Canal System, the Governor will be here Friday for the official opening and we have a front row seat for all the festivities.

Today's picture is of the mule at the Waterford Town Dock.