Second Wind on the Great Loop and Beyond

Saturday, July 14. After returning to the boat yesterday, we were raring to start the Trent-Severn Waterway, another national historic site of Canada. The Trent-Severn, always described in glowing terms by Loopers, begins in Trenton, Ontario, and ends 240 miles and 44 locks later in Port Severn on Georgian Bay. Having just completed the Rideau Waterway System, we thought these locks would be similar. Actually, they are somewhat different, so we’ve had to stay on our toes. For one thing, the water typically fills the lock from one side only, which means boats must tie up on the opposite wall. Also there seems to be more turbulence as the lock chamber fills. The photo above shows turbulence as water is lemptied from a lock chamber. Another difference from the Rideau Locks is that on the Trent-Severn system, lock walls are opened by lockmasters walking round in circles as they push a large valve around and around. On the Rideau, they cranked smaller wheels, standing in one position. We traveled most of the day with several Canadian couples on 43-foot express cruisers. Somehow we managed to squeeze all three boats in the lock.

The day started out with a few clouds and ended up in a solid downpour with temperatures in the 60’s. This first stretch was fairly rural, but it was a good day in spite of the rain. We made it through only 30 miles, but that included 12 locks! By the end of the day we tied up at the city dock at Campbellford, yet another quaint town. The town park featured a large statue of the Toonie, the Canadian two dollar coin that was designed by some guy who lives here. Guess what – Campbellford had yet another CHOCOLATE factory outlet. Of course we plan to check it out in the morning. Dinner at Capers tonight was good. Oink!