Red Pearl

We left Charleston on June 19th heading North to Norfolk. It was a 7 day hard push journey. Most days we were up at 5 and casting off before sunrise and we would cruise between 8 and 10 hours.

Our last day we went through the Great Dismal Swamp on the Dismal Swamp Canal. The Great Dismal Swamp is a large swamp located in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina, covering approximately 750 square miles. It is known for its rich biodiversity, including various plant and animal species. Opened in 1805, the canal is the oldest continually operating man-made canal in the United States. It was a key transportation hub in colonial times.

The swamp is enclosed in 2 locks and bridges that only open 4 times a day, so you have to time your entry and exit at precise times. We arrived at 8:15 for the 8:30 opening. Also the entire 22 miles is no wake zone. We cruised along at about 5-6 mph and arrived for the 1:30 lock opening with plenty of time to spare.

The swamp is very narrow and has a lot of fallen logs and debris. We had to be focused and “on our game” to avoid hitting various obstacles.

We were the only boat going North or South on the canal so it was a very quiet and peaceful cruise. We exited the canal directly into the Chesapeake Bay in Norfolk. We had the dramatic switch from the peaceful canal to a busy, chaotic, commercial and military shipping area. The huge size of the boats was stunning.

Because we had to go so slow in the canal, we arrived at our marina after hours and had to dock without any dock hands. Fortunately a nice boater caught our lines and helped us out. Once again another simple example of the kindness we have experienced over and over.

Just to let you all know, it is not always smooth-sailing, we did have a problem. The power bank where we connect our boat’s electrical was not working for us. So after a long and stressful day, we would not have power (no A/C!!). We were unable to reach anyone from the marina to help us. Larry, with his “forceful personality” walked the docks until he found us a slip with electricity. So, at sunset, we moved the boat again, without any help this time. It wasn’t pretty, but docked safe and sound. We were able to cook a hot meal and sleep soundly with A/C and maybe some benedryl.