Aug 26

Alton to Kinswick MO 45 miles 2 locks


Interesting and fun day today were awake and moving early had a breakfast of english muffins and jam.  Then a gas arrived and wanted to discuss our boat how it worked and compare it to his history with similar boats.  This took about half an hour and turned out just fine ended up we gave him our card and started out.


As soon as we left Alton marina we called the Melvin Price lock and dam and told them we were on our way.  The had the lock all set up for us and in out we went with no problems.  We did the same with Chain of Rock lock and dam with the same result in and out fast and easy.  In the Chain of Rock lock they let us float free of the wall.  This was little scary for me and had to maneuver the boat to keep it off the wall.  I think I prefer to tie off.  Another difference here is that must have a life jacket on inside the lock.  Not a bad idea but it did take us a little by surprise as it was a change.  


Then came St. Louis and it good to see the arch and bridges.  Lots of pictures but with no wifi I will only post 2.  


We are now at place call Hoppies.  I doubt this marina would rate a good review in any book.  Just a small fuel dock and a couple of barges floating to tie off on to.  It does have power and water meaning we get AC today.  As it was hot this is blessing.  Had to really struggle to get it going as the watw\er strainer was plugged and took some clearing and swear words to get it done. But it is now working and I did not sink the boat.  


Walked into town and had dinner at the same sot we did 20 years ago.  Nice to that some things have stayed the same.




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