Midland, Ontario Wye Heritage Marina July 30-August 2, 2016
Mom and I saw Bev and Vic in the parking lot when she was taking me for my morning walk. We walked back to the boat with them, so Bev could come aboard for the day. No sooner did we get on board, but we were pulling out so we could be third on the Big Chute blue line. Mom fed me and the rest of them breakfast while we waited for them to open up. What a rush just watching Knot Sew Easy and then, Chasin 80 go before us.
This marine railway lock raises boats up (canoes, kayaks, skidoos to boats 100’ long) 58’ between the Severn River and Glouchester. In our case, it was lowering us that much.. Huge winch cables powered by electric motors move the platform/carriage full of boats. The new carriage we traveled on went into operation in 1977 after the 1917 one was retired. The boats are supported by slings inside the carriage. M & D had to mark the boat as to where the slings should go based on our boats hull markings. Dad drove the boat onto the slings while they are underwater. The operators locks them into place and away we go!
Everyone stays onboard for the ride, but mom made me stay inside, so I wouldn’t be scared while she and Bev rode up on the bow to get a better view. Again, better than any amusement ride according to mom, Bev and dad!
It was so strange because even though we were in a big body of water once again, thanks to all the underwater and above rock cropping, the channel was very narrow and curvy. Dad really had to watch very carefully!
After a beautiful hour’s cruise to Port Severn: Lock 45, we were all jammed up there. It’s by far one of the smallest locks we have encountered so far. Not many boats could go in at once. The lock masters were terrific at figuring out how many would fit together in the order they were in line. When you came out, the channel had an incredible strong current and again was NARROW!!! It takes you out in the Georgian Bay which again looks vast, but has distinctly marked channels that you must follow!
We got to this beautiful marina around 1:30 PM. It was so fun having Bev along for the ride and to lend a hand when needed. I got extra pats which I love! Vic came within the hour, so they all could have a late lunch here at the famous Henry’s Restaurant. Dad has really been enjoying pickerel/walleye. After lunch Vic and Bev drove us back to their cottage. Vic designed it with an architect friend. He has done the greater part of the building and finishing work himself including creating furniture, open carved staircase, stone fireplace, chandlers and whatever comes to his creative mind…It is SO GORGEOUS!!! It has wonderful lake views out of all of the windows. We were so thrilled to see it and I loved enjoying the yard around it!
Vic and Bev lent us their extra car to use for the next couple of days, so M & D and our fellow travelers could get some needed supplies. We will take it back to them and enjoy dinner at their house before we leave…can’t wait to spend more time with them!!! Once again mom and dad are feeling so blessed to have friends scattered between our two countries!!!
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| Our Marina by the Big Chute |
The Big Chute: Lock #44
Bev having oatmeal with fresh peaches and almonds
Chasing 80 entering the carriage and you can see the slings on her with her props hanging over so they don't get damaged
Notice the railway under it and all the operators riding with us
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| I couldn't believe this sight even as I was photographing it! The car passing under the carriage |
The top of the hill and down
They are almost back in the water again
...And. away they go
Mike's view from the top of the Chute
It was a surprisingly smooth and quiet ride on the bow, but not so much up on the flybridge
Mike looking back to the top of the hill
Here is the view looking back at Port Severn; Lock 45, the tiny one
Up close and personal with an osprey and her chick
Looking out into the Georgian Bay
Given all the outcropping rocks we wish there were more of these!
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