Captain Andy

I have always known that I was meant to be the captain of a boat, even if it was for only a week.  Actually......... I haven't!  But I did loved the idea as soon as Megan told me about this canal boating excursion in France.

The Particulars: Me, Megan, Susan (Megs Aunt), and Gary (Megs Uncle - aboard for only a day), a boat, a canal, lots of French wine, good local foods, and 7 whole days of cruising from point A to point B.  Fantastic eh!

As we approached our week on the canal, we were informed that our little boat was no longer available, and that we were given an upgrade; no complaints!  Well, the only snag was that the boat was in the town Chatilloen-Bazois instead of Digoin (where we were initially boarding).  Problem diverted when they offered us a free car to drive the hour and a half to the upgraded boat in Chatillon.  Driving the country roads of Burgundy was gorgeous and entertaining; it's always fun not knowing what the road signs say or mean. 

Being the Captain of a boat isn't always easy, especially when you have never EVER motored a boat before!  Luckily, I assimilated to the life of a boat master quickly, and we were off to explore the beautiful country side of Burgundy.

Me, Megs, Gary, and the pooch, Rolex

The days consisted of navigating the canal, sipping wine, tasting cheese, and working the locks.  As I would approach the lock, Megan would jump ship and fasten our ropes to secure us while the lock filled or emptied in order for us to maneuver through it.  Susan secured the ropes from the boat, and together, after some 40 locks, we became a well oiled lock working team.

In between locks, we stopped to explore small towns (7 or 8 in total) where we saw old abbeys, shopped at local markets, and connected our boat for electricity.  The temperature on the canal was chilly to say the least; one night got down to 29 degrees, and our little boat heater couldn't keep up with the demand for my desired Maui staple of 82 degrees.  To stay warm, we bundled up, ate chocolate, drank tea, watched the Gilmore Girls (I am in love with Lorelei, and I don't care who knows it), played scrabble, and read.  However, apparently wine heats one up from the inside out, so that was my plan of attack!  Wine was my new water.

Food from the market: baguette, pastries, ewe cheese, quiche, and apples.

Old Church

Besides running up on 2 sandbars, parking on a rock, and forgetting our electrical cord converter (which I didn't realize until 2 days down the canal), the cruise was mishap free, and very enjoyable.  We have decided that we would partake in another canal boat excursion in the future........only........ in July!

As captain of the NE2890 Siloe, I bid you farewell, and safe boating.