Yelvertoft Marina

Today we departed Norton Junction heading for Yelvertoft. We had a brief window between two weather fronts trying to avoid the rain. We set off at 0715 hrs passing within 30 yards of Watford Gap services on the M1, and arriving at the base of the Watford Staircase Locks just after 8. The crew checked in with the lockie and we were the first in line. We had a brief wait whilst some water was run down the flight to fill the low pounds. Usually this flight has restricted opening hours but for a trial period the locks have been left fully usable 24 hours a day. The problem is people using them are allowing the flight to drain overnight so this trial period may not last long if the problem persists. Once through the locks it was a short hop to the 1528 yard Crick Tunnel. As usual the northern end was dripping wet. We passed Crick Marina, then rounded Crack Hill. Navigating the final bend towards Yelvertoft Marina we had our first glimpse of the new slipway and wind turbine. We nipped into the marina for services and have decided to stay a couple of days as the weather is forecast to be bad. We now have the luxury of plug in electric and an unlimited water supply. We are booked to stay until Thursday when we plan to set off again towards Debdale.

Totals 6 Miles 7 Locks 1 Tunnel

Running total 616 Miles 307 Locks 21 Tunnels