Watford to Yelvertoft

Wednesday 8th November

We didn't move yesterday as the weather was awful, pouring it down all day. So we went to Rugby and did some shopping.

Today we woke up to a glorious sunny day, cold but crisp and clear. So we are setting off to go through the Crick tunnel. John is steering today, he's decided to attempt his first tunnel!

I spotted another Kingfisher as it swooped down under the bridge. Ok I didn't actually take this shot but if I had just had my camera ready - who knows!! 😉

We were soon at the entrance to the tunnel. 

I went up the front of the boat so I could switch on our additional light to help guide the way. We had our walkie talkies with us so we could communicate but of course once in the tunnel your voice echoes so much we could hear each other anyway.

 I was amazed at all the patterns on the inside, it looked just like a cave. If you added some fairy lights it would be all set for Santa!

 We then saw a light approaching, look out John it's another boat coming - keep to the right!

 As we passed I could hear this awful scraping noise and a screeching and then a big snap! Uh oh.. John wasn't happy...

 As it was impossible to assess the damage in the dark I decided to enjoy the scenery!

 There is light at the end of the tunnel..just a few more feet to go. 

 At last out in the sunshine again, what a relief!

Once out of the tunnel we were able to assess the damage. There was brown sludge all down the right hand side of the boat and over the pram hood. We were also missing a fender, clearly that was the snapping sound! It wasn't too bad and pleased to report that it all cleaned off with a bit of soapy water. We have a couple of spare fenders thankfully so no real problems-phew!

 We were soon passing the Marina at Yelvertoft which was our chosen mooring for tonight.

We found a nice spot just past the permit holder's moorings. 

 Such a beautiful sunset too, shame it was only 4.30pm! 

 As soon as they saw me in the window these "Gangster swans" started tapping on the side of the boat, demanding food! I didn't have anything to give them and they finally went away..