Lock 36 to the Big Chute

 

Leaving Lock 36, Spiritus scores a bullseye as she passes through the "Hole in the Wall" bridge.

 

 

 

 

 



Spiritus is now lowering down in each of the remaining locks. 

Here we wait for the boats to come up and out of the lock before we enter to be locked down.

Spiritus traveling through the locks has been a source of entertainment for the Canadians. 

We have enjoyed their curious questions, helpful tips, and kind comments.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We cruised through isolated rural settings along the canal between Locks 37 and 41.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We felt blessed to have perfect weather to cross Lake Simcoe which is 20 miles long.

It is the largest lake on the Trent-Severn Waterway & the open water can create cruising hazards in foul weather.

 

 

 

 

 

After crossing Lake Simcoe, we arrived in the very welcoming "Port of Orillia" Marina.

Can you tell that the sailboat is their civic symbol of pride?

 

 

 

 

 

It's always such fun to meet for docktails with fellow Loopers. 

We've been cruising off and on with these wonderful folks since St. Augustine, Florida!

 

 

 

 

 

The next day, we travel the Severn River. 

It is heavily forested and the river banks are framed with breath-taking granite formations.

 

 

 

 

 

Here the water is clear, the landscape pristine, the cruising is wonderful, and all is right with the world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Approaching "The Big Chute", a unique marine railway, we prepare to do something truly amazing!

 

The Captain pilots Spiritus into the slings which will hold her up as she is transported over land to the next body of water.

 

 

The very helpful & skilled lock masters assist with placement of the straps that will hold Spiritus in position for the most thrilling aerial ride of her life!

 

We are being cheered on by spectators who are photographing Spiritus' marine railway ride.

 

Spiritus crosses over a road to get to the lake on the other side.

 

The First Mate hangs on to the bowsprit and can't believe it's really happening . . . . . .

 

. . . . . . while the Captain compares it to an "e-ticket" ride at DisneyLand!

 

 

 

 

A boat behind Spiritus is released off the rails into the lake below.

 

 

 

 

Looking back at the one-of-a-kind marine railway and being amazed once again that we could experience this marvel!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another day that surpassed all our expectations!