We left Grafton on October 1, beginning our journey down the Mississippi River. Fourteen miles later, we stopped in Alton to top off with fuel. While fueling up, the captain contacted the lock 1/2 mile away and was advised if we get there fast he’ll lock us right thru. Bam, done, we were out of there! Perfect timing. Our 2nd lock for the day went just as well.
We dropped the hook up the mouth of the Meramac River. The river current kept us nice and centered in the river all evening. The next morning we found we were spun sideways and the back of the boat was somewhat stuck in the muddy bottom near shore.
By pulling the boat ahead a few feet with the anchor winch, it allowed the back end to freely swing out with the current. Whew!
Our journey on the Mississippi River took us 218 miles downstream, thru 2 lock, down 46 feet.
Our journey on the Ohio River took us 47 miles upstream, thru 1 lock, up 10 feet. (When we came up the river in 2021 the water was so high we actually went right over the dam rather than through the lock!)
ALONG THE WAY:
Sunny, sunny, sunny weather.
4 days of travel - never set foot on land.
3 nights on anchor - all new stops for us.
Low water on the Mississippi provided beautiful, scenic beaches and log-free/stress-free traveling.
During a dinghy ride near Cape Girardeau, we excited a bazillion Asian Carp. Once the first mate stopped screaming she wanted to do it again.
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| Hello St Louis! |
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| Exiting the lock. Tow waiting to enter |
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| Kayakers enjoying low Mississippi waters |
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| The calm before the Asian Carp ruckus |
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| The Ruckus!! |
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