We made it to Ocean Marine in Portsmouth, VA in time to get diesel and an all important pump out of the holding tank. We've learned to remember four things when the opportunity presents itself. First, get diesel, second, fill the water tanks, next, collect the garbage and most of all, get pumped out! Don't forget the laundry. I guess that makes five things to remember. See, it's hard to remember the things I need to remember!
We left Portsmouth at daybreak and what a team. We backed out of the slip and headed out into the harbor without incident. As we headed down the Elizabeth River which separates Portsmouth from Norfolk we encountered numerous barges and recreational boaters headed south. It's extremely difficult to know whether a barge is coming toward you or traveling in the same direction. Obviously, when you get close enough it is easy to know, but at dawn and with the busy harbor I like to know as early as possible in order to make a good decision and change course if need be.
We chose the Dismal Swamp route to the Abermerle Sound while our buddy boat chose the Virginia Cut since they draft 6 feet and they wanted to avoid the occasional bump that may occur in the shallower canal. I like the Dismal Swamp because the leaves are changing colors and it tends to be more scenic and diverse.
We needed to raft up with other boats in the first lock since there were fifteen boats waiting to get through. It's a great way to meet other boaters even though some you will never see again, however, often we meet some of them further along.
We traveled over 75 miles today and Bonnie graciously treated us to a seafood dinner at a restaurant across the street from the free city docks in Elizabeth City, NC.
Captain Sid
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