Lake Erie - calm so far

Leaving Erie, PA we motor-sailed about 4 miles off shore; a nice breeze but not enough for any speed. So far Erie has been quite smooth although it’s not a very deep lake and can get choppy in a hurry. We came into Ashtabula, OH and tied up at the wall downtown to use the free pump-out. We had planned to tie there overnight but contrary to what our guidebook told us, the sign said ”No Overnight Docking” so off we went. We found our way down the river to the Ashtabula Yacht Club and stayed for $1.50/foot (not quite as welcoming as Dunkirk).

There was a unique vessel across the river from us: The Historic Bum Boat Pub circa 1930, according to the sign. A few boats pulled up but most clientele came by land.

The Ashtabula lift bridge opens on the hour and half hour. It was lit at night with blue floodlights which made it look much prettier. Plaques commemorated the community project of lighting the bridge and listed the donors and amounts given. Evidently they're quite proud of it.

The lake was like glass so we motored to Grand River Marine in Fairport, not to be confused with Grand River Marine in Grand River. We got to the correct one on the second try. This was the first day it actually felt HOT. The wobbly metal finger piers were none too wide at 30 in. Best not to be “tipsy” walking on those things. As you can see, the view across the river was none too scenic.


One of the reasons we wanted to make Fairport was access to a diesel mechanic as we had some fuel leakage in the engine. Capt. thought he’d found the source but his attempt to remedy it wasn’t successful. Hooray for Ed from Diesel Pro who found and fixed the problem. Luckily it didn’t involve big bucks. We were out of there the next day, less than desirable facilities and NO wifi available.

We saw “Point Counterpoint” as we left the next day. The vessel belongs to The American Wind Symphony Orchestra in Pittsburgh, PA. We could hear them rehearsing for the Sat. night concert. The raised center portion is the stage and faces the audience on land. What a unique summer experience for the music students; I would loved to have been there for the concert.


Westward Ho - on to Cleveland.