October 14, Day 123 - Clifton, TN to Iuka, MS

We departed Clifton this morning at 8:00 a.m. The boat, Red Nek, wanted to leave at 8:00, but didn’t think they could get out until we left, so we obliged. We wanted an early start anyway as we had quite a distance to go, plus one lock. It was cloudy, but quite warm this morning. It was pretty damp, but never did rain today. There was quite a bit of current (around 2 knots) and lots of debris in the water. The chatter from the locals on the radio indicated the river was several feet above normal level (around 9 ft).

The scenery along the river was really beautiful. There are many high rocky bluffs and the leaves are starting to become quite colorful. We made fairly decent time and arrived at the Pickwick Lock along with one other boat. The lockmaster knew we were coming and had the lock open and ready. This was Jay and Nanci’s first (and only) locking experience. They handled their locking duties proficiently, e.g. stayed out of the way, and everything went smooth. After the lock it was a quick run to the Grand Harbor Marina where we had reservations for the night. There were a couple of other looper boats already at the marina.

After checking in and chatting with the marina personnel we made Bloody Marys with Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix (this stuff is great) and had happy hour while sitting in the gliders on the marina dock along the river. It was very delightful. All the courtesy cars were being used, but Chip (the dockmaster) volunteered to take us to Freddy T’s for dinner. The drinks and food were exceptional, especially compared to the night before, and the décor was very entertaining. We had a good time.

Back at the boat, we had a quick nightcap and then off to bed. Tomorrow we head to Florence.

A shot of Monk's Vineyard nestled in her spot next to the patio

Getting ready to depart. The boat to the left (Red Nek) wanted us to leave first as they didn't want to back out with us there.

The shoreline along the river. Lots of rock cliffs

More of the houses and rock cliffs .... They were very unique

The rocks along this particular part of the shore almost gave the effect that the river was much higher on the left.

A cute house on stilts

The river was very high. Here you can see trees that are usually not in the water.

We saw this ????????????????

Nanci locking through

.... and Jay locking through

Leaving the lock

This was the Pickwick Lock. As we exited we were in Pickwick Lake

Monk's Vineyard at the Grand Harbor Marina

Happy hour on the dock ..... gliding away

The marina at dusk

Jay, Nanci and the Simpsons at Freddy T's

The Hula Girl provided entertainment at the bar