Our Great Loop Adventure

On Wednesday, October 9th, we left Florence Marina and made our way to the Wilson Lock. This lock will lift us 97' to the level of Wilson Lake. We were the only boat in the lock. Next, we made our way to Wheeler Lock. We tied up to the bollard (line is wrapped around this device to help control the boat as water rises or falls in the lock). The water started to rise, but the bollard did not. We quickly removed the line, Tony grabbed the boat hook and caught the rung of the ladder next to the bollard. He was doing pretty well hanging on but the force of the water was moving us backward into the rear gate of the lock. He was literally hanging from the bow pulpit when the lock master looked down and realized what was happening. He told us to let go, start our engine and control the boat in the center of the lock until the filling procedure was finished. I think I got a few more white hairs after this experience. We finally locked our way through, made our way to Joe Wheeler Park and were greeted by the loopers already there, who helped us dock. We needed three hours to clean the boat after arriving because the auxiliary Wheeler lock left tons of rust stains on the boat, fenders and lines. From Thursday through Sunday, we cleaned, took dinghy rides, walked and greeted and helped new loopers as they came in. We also went into the little town of Rogersville for supplies and lo and behold found the Savannah Cafe. It was a coffee shop. Yea! There was a large docktail party (65 boats are here as well as attendees staying in the lodge) on Sunday before dinner. We were also serenaded every night by Annie and two story trawler with a calliope on the top. We found out later, the owner built the boat himself. It took 15 years. The rendezvous officially kicked off on Monday with registration, a wine and cheese reception followed by dinner. After dinner all the crews of the boats presently looping introduced themselves with information like type of boat, when we started, and a personal anecdote. Tuesday through Thursday was a whirlwind of seminars. Each seminar took a portion of the loop and the presenters gave us advice and suggestions about that leg. It took us all the way to Norfolk, VA. Tuesday, was the looper crawl. Boats are open for viewing by anyone who wanted to see it. The crawl is mainly for the looper wannabes who are making decisions on what boat to purchase for their loop. We had several people board Summer Recess. It made us very proud because we got many compliments. I think Tony convinced one couple that the 39 Mainship was for them. They came back Thursday for a second visit including looking at the engine room. There were many opportunities for all of us to mingle with each other. At dinner on Tuesday we heard from the Gold Loopers (who have finished the loop) and the looper wannabes. All their stories were very interesting. The last dinner was particularly moving. We all realized we now would be going our separate ways and will probably meet some where down the water. The highlight of Thursday was a jam session after dinner. We found out Jim from Sea Fever is a very accomplished pianist. He wowed us with his rendition of "Amazing Grace." Friday morning brought fog, so the three convoys of boats leaving were delayed. We were in the second group of nine boats who left at 9:00a.m. We successfully locked through Wheeler and Wilson and are now back at Florence Marina. It was an amazing experience with a lot of information and a lot of friends. Now it is on to the next leg, the Tenn-Tom to Mobile.