Friendly Lyons
23 August 2017 | Lyons, NY
El 400. Cool and partly cloudy
I knew I was lightly grounded, but I was able to leave the dock this morning, with a little extra effort. The normal push off and engine in gear didn't budge the boat. But with a little extra persuasion, I got off okay. Roger felt he bumped bottom when he left the dock and went forward closer to where I had just been docked.
Today we dropped 75 feet in five locks. Some towns work at welcoming boaters. Lyons is one of them and the wall is full. The lock tender told us about the town and said Bob was the scheduled greeter this afternoon. Sure enough, Bob showed up to greet us. There are historical signs along the wall showing the canal history and the town of Lyons involvement. They use the volunteer fire station for restrooms and showers. Very nice and it worked for us. Plus free pump out and a Tops grocery store within a mile of us. Low budget, but effective.
Tomorrow will be a long day and we cross our first lake - Cross Lake. It is not very wide west to east. I had originally planned to anchor in the lake, but neither of us can open our anchor lockers with the mast cradle in the way. Plan B ...
I think I fixed my minor engine coolant leak (tightened the hose clamps). Friday will be a short day and I will try to do a temporary fix of the bow pulpit leak, which is more troublesome. I can't do a proper job with the mast on top of it.