A Not Uneventful Night

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Friday, 12 November, 2010

We got up early and drank coffee and ate fresh biscuits from the marina store. Just after 8:30 we headed out again, following the marked channel from the marina that winds through the swamp back to the main channel. We had a short wait at Aberdeen Lock, just a mile downriver from the entrance to the marina. Then we just putt-putted along until we reached Stennis Lock around 2:00.

We anchored for the night in Luxapalila Creek, not far from some barges that were secured to dolphins along the north side of the creek. We felt pretty safe, assuming that since it was Friday night and the barges appeared empty, there would be no activity overnight. There is a boat ramp nearby, and the parking lot is lighted, so we had marks to make sure our anchor was holding throughout the night.

Kerry went to bed before 9 and I stayed up to read for a while. Around 9:15 I heard the thump-thump of a tug and hopped up to watch it pass. I could see it shining its spotlight on the shore at the entry to the creek, not unusual as there was a day marker there. The next thing I knew, the spotlight was shining on me, nearly blinding me. I woke Kerry and turned on the VHF and was immediately contacted by the captain. He asked us to move deeper into the creek as they had to move the barges out and he would try not to rock us too much (Ha.) So we moved past Sara and Trevor and anchored, not knowing how much water was under us since our transducer is gone, and sat back to watch the show.

It’s fascinating to watch them maneuver those big barges and tie them together with huge cables. As near as I could see, there were only 2 deckhands working to attach cables. The tow boat really churned up the water, causing the inlet to swirl like a whirlpool, with debris floating by us at a rapid pace. Our boats spun, too, coming frighteningly close to each other, so we again lifted anchor and moved around, fighting the current those big props created. Finally they had them all strung together and fastened to the towboat, and we thought we’d have peace at last, but no, they had to turn to go downstream. So after more swirling water and bright lights (did I mention the lights on the towboat lit up the area like daytime?) they were finally on their way and we could anchor again. The whole process took just over 2 hours, some of it was jaw-clenchingly tense. Needless to say, we did not fall right to sleep after that. So, I can honestly say, it was not an uneventful evening.

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Photos

towboat moving barges
couldn't get a clear picture due to the turbulence of the water

Aberdeen Marina
early morning colors

marked channel
winding through the swamp out of the marina

northbound tow
entering Stennis Lock

Luxapalila Creek anchorage
on a quiet afternoon

rowing over
Sara decided to get some exercise by rowing instead of motoring

sunset
from Luxapalila Creek

Comments

[Barbara]

WOW! A little too uneventful....

[Vickie]

Sounds like an exciting evening. Great pictures!

[Pat]

Mom
Mom's service was beautiful. We know you were all with us on Friday. Look at the stars and you will see her smile. I love you and keep the updates coming and be safe. Love you so much!

[Cherli Tx]

Getting your heart rate up the hard way
So what happened to your transducer and does walmart carry one??? If so, go directly to the nearest one and get it!!! Sounds like you really had a night. Just a typical pioneer experience, eh?