Monday
7th November, 2011
Left just after 8:00am. Very grey day and
quite cold. Mick had said that there were two great lock-side cafes – so Robin
didn’t have breakfast before leaving (anticipating a treat in store).
Unfortunately one café opened only Thursday through Sunday out of season and
the other was closed on Mondays.
Went through the three locks without any
problem. Only used one gate to make it easier. The third lock at 11ft 1in is
the deepest on the Grand Union. Took it very gently but it was actually a lot
easier than some of the locks on the Wey and Arun.
Arrived at Harefield Marina at mid-day and
tied up at the entrance. Took on water, did a pump-out and filled with diesel.
98 litres for £95.44 on a 40/60 split (more heating in the winter).
Then took MM to her winter mooring in the Marina. When we arrived
and switched off the engine the hour meter read 100.0 hours. Perfect timing!
Checked the engine compartment to find that
there was quite a bit of water and a slight drip from the stern gland even when
stationery. Dried out the water and put the red kitchen bowl under the drip
with the bilge pump in the bowl – so if the drip continues, any water will get
pumped out more quickly.
Also checked the weed hatch and found
several bits of plastic bag wrapped tightly around the prop shaft. Removed them
all. Cleaned all the leaves off the roof.
Finally sat down to a brunch of porridge
and juice.
5 miles and 3 locks – 3.0 hours
Total 190 miles and 107 locks – 100.0 hours
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