Todays transit was one of the shortest of our entire voyage yet the richness of the scenery certainly made the difference. After pulling the anchor at 07:30 in order to make the 11:00 lock transit we were immediately surrounded by the area scenic beauty.

Not 2 more miles down the waterway did we come to our first head scratcher. Was the bridge really open like the books say? Our approach did not provide a clear view until we got right up on this train bridge.

\

This section is so curvy I nearly found myself leaning into the corners!

View the lock gates (closed) as we approach the south end of the lock which will raise Magnolia about 4 feet.

There were two other boats joining us for the “elevator” ride.

As the lock fills Magnolia is being raised.

The lockmaster with his able assistant.

Truth be told she did not lift a “paw” to help her boss!

The canal is so narrow the width of the mast blocks the entire view of navigable water!

Magnolia moored alongside at the Dismal Swamp Visitors Center.

After being on the boat for a couple days nothing feels better than a good leg stretching walk…also referred to as Forced Family Fun!

The Admiral enjoying a little time on the “Contemplation Bench”

Like I said, it was a short 22 mile day but VERY cool!

Portsmouth Virginia tomorrow.