Looking out over the breakwater onto Lake Ontario brought back memories of that dreaded day we left 14 days ago. We were told we had a weather window and needed to jump on it early as the waves were to pick up the next few days on the lake. So, armed with a pocket full of Gin-Gins, a sweatband on each wrist (I think it’s a gimmick, but the distraction keeps my mind off the roller coaster) and some ginger snap cookies, I took my place next to the captain and off we went — destination Canada!
One foot seas were predicted…in actuality what ensued were more like three foot swells which were unrelenting. I think Duane actually likes when I think it’s a rough ride, because I volunteer to drive since I can brace myself under the steering wheel. But, this situation is often short-lived as he has a look of terror on his face the whole time the drunk snake is at the helm. The choppy ride lasted for most of the 35 miles across until we were in protected waters, but it was actually bearable.
Our destination was Picton Harbor in Ontario. We needed to clear customs and tie the boat up for the night. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the Canadian Navy who blocked our entrance until we provided the required paperwork, but we were able to bribe them with hot dog buns.
Map in hand we walked around Picton, our first taste of Canada. We stumbled upon a brewery and listened to live music as we enjoyed some local beers. And when I say stumbled, I mean it is a good thing I was in charge of the map and am an expert at deciphering the location markings for food and drinks.
We shoved off for Trenton the next morning. It was now Saturday and we were on day 15 of the trip. Duane has currently become tired of me asking how long it will take to get to our next stop, so he has turned my days into a math lesson. Distance = Speed X Time. I have, in turn, stopped with the “are we there yet” inquiries.
Trent Park Marina was beyond what we even could have expected. We met our first Harbor Hosts, Eric and Karen, aboard their boat, Tropical Horizons. They were so gracious and informative about the areas we would be visiting giving us the ins and outs of the Canadian waters. In addition, they provided us with a detailed booklet which will be my bible the next few weeks.
Trent Port Marina was also by far the nicest marina we have docked at. Along with individual shower pods, they had a free laundry facility and public barbecue area. For a few hours I felt like I was at a spa and relaxed in the boater’s lounge to catch up on the news realizing we have missed nothing. Eventually Duane tracked me and the newly laundered sheets down so he was able to go to sleep.
Tomorrow is a big day…we will be starting our trip on the Trent-Severn Waterway and going back into the Lock system. 44 locks over the course of 240 miles. We will lock up to a whopping 841 feet above sea level before beginning a steady decline to 578 feet above sea level at Port Severn. Good thing I remembered to put my lock gloves in the washing machine.