The Big One (10-2)

Monday 4th June 2012

Newark (Cow Lane Bridge) to Gunthorpe Lock

The sun has returned, the birds are singing all is well with the world. A steady cruise up the Trent through one of the  more picturesque sections (Trent Hills) of the river. However at Newark town lock the rain returned.

We stopped at Farndon Marina for diesel, gas and a pump-out. Before continuing our cruise towards Hazelford Lock. There was a lot of boats on the move and due to the rail over the last few days the river was up and we had to punch our way up river.

Fiskerton moorings were full, so we pushed on to Hazelford lock which was set against us. We had to hold out Rosie out in the river for about ten minuets while several boats were penned down. It was the same at Gunthorpe Lock and we held out again. Gunthorpe was very busy with gongoozelers on the bankside. We had to pose for a few pictures as we came into the lock. On the lock exit was an even bigger crowd of boat watchers. We decided to stay for the night as there was a mooring available and its a long haul to the next moorings.

Egyptian Goose

Wildlife: We came across six Egyptian Geese who seemed to be perfectly at home in the Trent Hills. I managed to grab a quick picture. Other birds included Buzzard, Oystercatcher, the usual Great Crested Grebe, Coot, Mallard and Moorhen. The surprise was watching a Pied Flycatcher taking insects from the water surface - in the centre of the river. Brief glimpses of a Kingfisher and a Green Woodpecker provided additional entertainment.

Daily Total
Miles: 13.5
Locks: 3
Swing / Lift Bridges: 0

Tunnels: 0

Pump Outs: 1

Engine Hours: 8.0

Accumulated Totals
Miles: 720.4

Locks: 656

Swing / Lift Bridges: 115

Tunnels: 6

Pump Outs: 10

Engine Hours: 2160.5


Later......