Wednesday Oct. 15, 2014

Leatherwood Creek mm 73.6 to Mermaid Marina mm 140.0

We pulled up the anchor at 0715 and were on our way. Something new and different, not, it was 52 degrees and raining. We encountered a little more current today as we were running at 1600 rpm at 6.2 kts. Did not pass too many tows today but at mm 80 we had a first, I was down below and Colletta was alerted by the AIS that a dangerous target was headed out way. It was a barge that she called on the radio and asked directions from the tow Captain as to where and how we should pass. I am very proud of her. Once again there were bass boats flying all over the lake.  I can’t believe there are that many fishermen starving because I cannot think of any other reason to be out on a day like today in an open boat charging around at 50 mph.

We plugged along and finally arrived at Mermaid Marina at 1720. I increased our speed alittle for the last hour because I didn’t want to arrive after dark again. I had talked to Barry the marina owner and told him we were on our way and he said he would stay until we got there. We arrived and pulled in to get diesel fuel. That way we could take off early the next day. I had heard they were supposed to be one of cheaper fuel stops on the river. He gave us a 30 cents a gallon discount and was 25 cents cheaper then Green Turtle. We took on 170 gallons, so first fuel since mm 158 on the Mississippi. While we fueling I asked if the restaurant was open and Barry’s significant other, Betty, said not really but they had to eat so she would open the restaurant for us but with a limited menu. She asked what kind of beer we drank, we said Bud Light so she grapped a 6 pack out of the cooler and said she will meet us upstairs at the restaurant. Colletta and I both ordered chicken breast to make it simple.  Betty and Barry both sat with us and had dinner with us. They had just purchased the marina a year ago on Labor Day. They have their work cut out for them but they are great people and very customer oriented. We wish them the best.

The fuel dock, Ships Store, Restaurant at Mermaid Marina

On our way to the marina we passed a number of impressive houses along the river. We don't know who they are or where they come from but they have some nice houses.

 

 

 

A lighthouse built on the cliff