Deep Creek Lock in the Dismal Swamp

Pasquotank River in the fog

The Dismal Swamp is anything but dismal. We travelled this narrow portion of the ICW with 10 other boats yesterday.  The first part out of Elizabeth City is the Pasquotank River which meanders through a forested area.  At least that is what it looked like after the black fog lifted. We then turned into this straight ditch that is the Dismal Swamp Canal and crossed into Virginia.  There is little room for passing so fortunately, all the traffic is heading north. There are two locks that open at restricted hours with the first lock opening at 8:30 and the last at 3:30. The lock master was able to pile us all in. We chose to stop at a free dock south of the last lock which is Deep Creek Lock.  There is a little park with washrooms but no water or power at the dock. It is a good spot for provisioning with a Food Lion store just a short walk away.

Entering the dismal

All lined up waiting for the lock to open

Mark and Michele on Mark's Ark

Gary resting before happy hour

We are here with 3 other boats. The folks from the largest boat, graciously invited everyone for happy hour last night.  We had some good snacks, good conversation and a few too many drinks. Happy hour is a bit of a miss nomer when it lasts until sundown. Gary, a chap in a sailboat that we keep meeting at the free docks in various states, had some cinnamon liqueur that he shared with all. He is an interesting character to say the least.
Today it is raining so we will stay put and tackle the last lock tomorrow.  We are keeping an eye on the weather so we can start our 3 day crossing of Chesapeake Bay. It is a large body of water that needs to be respected but there are many harbours where we can seek refuge. The winds are supposed to subside on Wednesday so we will move into position tomorrow and Tuesday in order to start up the Chesapeake at first light on Wednesday.