Canal Time: Locks, Lessons, Loopers & Laughs
It’s canal time again — locks, bridges, ropes, cables, and plenty of wind to keep things interesting. We kicked off in Waterford, NY, joined by our “Lock Queen,” Kate, who rode along with us through the first several locks.
Lock 1 was a real learning experience. Four boats entered, and we were boat number four. The first boat ignored the lock master and tied up on the starboard side. The second boat tied up on the correct port side but didn’t pull all the way forward. Boat three squeezed onto port, which left us on starboard… in the wind… with everyone aging a few years trying to hold lines and keep boats off the wall.
Next lock, same chaos — but this time we managed to grab a cable. Much easier.
By Lock 4, the lock master finally made everyone line up correctly. We were on the port side, no wind, and suddenly felt like seasoned pros.
With two engines, we decided to pass two of the boats — sometimes speed is your friend. The next several locks were peaceful and easy, just us.
We stayed two nights in Amsterdam, a great little marina full of loopers. We toured the Burban Distillery with new friends and expected hot dogs and snacks at the marina… but instead were greeted with a full menu and awesome meals both nights. A perfect surprise.
We said goodbye to our Lock Queen and continued on our own. Next stop: Rondout Yacht Basin. After a smooth lock day with just Vikki and me, we tied up at a marina owned by A Marine — they’re doing a great job fixing it up. They recommended a local dive bar for dinner. It was burger night. The burgers were fantastic, and thanks to weather, we stayed two nights… and had burgers again the next night.
Next stop: Little Falls. The big antique store was closed on Tuesday, and with no Uber available, we stayed just one night.
We stopped in Ulnar for fuel and to dump our SH‑T. Great place — apparently my phone loved it so much it jumped into the canal to stay. You could say I got rid of too much of my SH‑T that day.
Another chapter of the Loop complete — locks mastered (mostly), burgers conquered, friends made, and one phone sacrificed to the Erie Canal.
