ssloop: Tennessee River-Ohio River

Sunday, May 9 the winds and rain continued so we stayed one more night at Grand Harbor Marina. On Monday, we pulled out, and after a mile we turned onto the Tennessee River. We are now traveling downstream. Woohoo! Shortly after entering the Tennessee River we locked down 55 feet at the Pickwick Lock. We traveled 110 miles and dropped the anchor in a pretty bay just outside of Pebble Isle Marina.

The next morning after a stop for fuel, we continued north just 36 miles to Panther Bay. We are now on part of the Tennessee River that opens up to the Kentucky Lakes. This is a beautiful stretch with many bays that are perfect for anchoring out in small coves. It was a sunny, warm afternoon that was perfect for some down time. Of course a dinghy ride was in order for some exploration of the area. Dinner called for ribeye steaks on the grill to celebrate our 37th wedding anniversary!

Wednesday was another short travel day, just 30 miles. We had hoped to anchor out in an area called the Rock Quarry, however once inside the quarry we realized the water was too deep! That never happens! We showed depths of over 100 feet. So we continued one more mile and ducked into a small cove called Brad’s Cut. Another grand afternoon was spent enjoying the warm sunshine, watching the bald eagles, turtles and jumping fish. Not as exciting at dolphins, sea turtles and sharks, but....

On Thursday after 10 miles we locked down 57ft thru the Kentucky Lock & Dam. After another 20 miles, we left the Tennessee River and joined the Ohio River. Shortly after getting on the Ohio, we came to Paducah, Kentucky where we docked at their city dock. We were able to walk into town to get a few supplies and have dinner.

The captain advised the first mate that it was time to get cracking again and cover some miles. Friday we left the dock by 7:30am and traveled till 7:30pm. Whew! We cruised our remaining 46 miles downstream on the Ohio and then....turned on to the mighty Mississippi River.