Hi Folks,
Just some reflections on the fall Erie Canal Trip.
Fuel. Although I filled my boat up at the Marina at Seneca Lake,my usual action is to fill up the tanks and spares just before launching. Fuel in New York was a buck less per gallon at the gas stations than the Marinas. Also I believe that you can deduct the highway taxes on your income taxes.
Spare tanks. Terry carries 5 gallon tanks. I have two 3 gal tanks. Easier to walk with. On the Erie Canal there are gas stations next to the canal in most towns. I filled the spares twice in Spencerport, and once in Lyons. Terry has a device that he uses to move the fuel from the spares to the main tanks without having to lift them up and possibly spilling fuel. I have to get one.
Food. Those of you who went to the Lake in New Hampshire remember the docks at BurgerKing. Well just after passing through the Lyons Lock going east there is a low wooden pier on the starboard side. It is located behind a McDonalds. Have to try it next time.
I found another restaurant for supper in Newark. Better food and good prices.
I have to agree with the couples who went to Bed and Breakfasts. I think it makes for happier wives. If I promise Sheila a stop in Bed and Breakfasts/hotels every night, she might come with me. But then I might not be able to afford it. How about every third night?
I slept like a Log. The sleeping bag was comfortable and on the one cold night, I threw a blanket on top. I changed the way I slept. I sleep across the bunk. Easier to get in and out and makes it easier to get at the "stuff". I got that idea from Red Fox who has a 1983 Angler.
Heat. My only heating was the alcohol stove in the morning. It is good for taking the chill off during the summer mornings, but better heat is needed in the fall. Terry has a single propane heater. I left mine behind. Next time I will bring it. Dun uses a Heater Buddy. Safe but maybe to much heat. Have to talk with him about it.
When you don't go cruising a lot you tend to take to much "stuff". After a few days, half of the "stuff" was stuffed under the forward bunk, never to be touched again. We talked about it and agreed that every time you go cruising you take less "stuff" until you have only what you need.
Terry joined me while I took Dun and Mike back to the Bed and Breakfast. It was the first time I had navigated in the dark. It was good because I found that my anchor light gives off to much reflective light, the fuel gages and compass needed to have red bulbs, and I forgot how to turn up the GPS light. I also forgot where I put the red flash light. Good learning experience, and a lot of fun. Also a Million Watt spot light isn't enough.
As I said before, if I wasn't so "cheap", I would have lost only one wheel. The other would have been fixed at the same time as the first one was fixed. Big learning experience.
Happy Sailing,
Fred