Today was a big day. We untied from the dock in Port Colborne at 6:00 am to start our journey down the Welland Canal. The canal carried us from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario over the course of 26 nm, through 8 locks, and under 4 lift bridges, while descending a total of 326 feet vertically (this avoids Niagara Falls). These are much more serious locks than the lock we used at Sault Ste Marie as they are used by the large vessels that transit the Great Lakes and the ocean.
We entered under the first bridge at 6:45 am and exited the entire canal system by 1:45 pm. No stops or breaks were allowed, but there were many times when we had to โhoverโ the boat. The process demanded almost continuous attention, so we were ready for a break.
Fortunately, Hamilton Harbour was only 24 miles away and the winds were favorable. Time to sail!
We were very happy to enter Hamilton Harbour (after passing under another lift bridge). It felt so welcome to enter the calm and sheltered waters, and see a local regatta underway.
Today, was a long demanding day, but rewarding to have accomplished! Now, we have settled down at anchor and enjoyed a delicious dinner made by Anne. Happiness.