We left Norfolk at 8am to catch the 11am lock opening into the Great Dismal Swamp. We were not the only ones a fleet or more like a gaggle of boats were heading up the Elizabeth River. There are two routes South, the Great Dismal Swamp Canal and the Virginia Cut. Half the boats went each way.
The lock lifted us up 8ft into the canal. The water was like coffee, tannic acid and leaves apparently.
We stopped at the visitor center were there is a free dock. Hiked some of the trails in the Swamp which was not Dismal or swampy. We saw 5 White Tail Deer and a broken Moonshine still. The Dismal Swamp was were the bootleggers used to hang out.
Then the visitor center filled up with 15 boats in three rows of 5 boats rafted together. We were trapped on the inside. Sailing Magazine are having a rally leading a group South.
Strangely the first boat to tie up to us was First Lady with Pat and Ray again! Seems like we are drawn together. We went on board their boat, had drinks and popcorn and watched the movie Captain Ron at their recommendation.
After locking down to sea level at the end of the canal we were in the upper reaches of Pasquotank River, this was truly beautiful with trees growing in the water, very serine. Elizabeth City was a bit if a disappointment being advertised as historic it was a bit sparse and non discript.
Lee and Peter Sailing Trip was for Four not Two Years. Now an Italian adventure 
Captain Ron you say? Just make sure the bitter end of the anchor is secured and you’ll be fine…
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So exciting you two!! We’ll be thinking of you and keeping up with your sailing adventures. Safe Travels, Toni & Erik
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It sounds like you are having a great time. We just got back from Belgium. It was fun but not as adventurous as your trip.
Love, Lito and Harry
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I’m loving this keep it coming.
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