10/18/19
Another travel day for us. The boaters from Chicago on the Hateras were docked next to us on the Starboard side. Their boat is so new they have no name yet but have a few they are considering like BFB (Big F-ing Boat). They said they were going at 6:30 am and the lock is right next to the Marina. They actually got off at 6:15 so Captain Nick decided against rushing to join them. I think the 4 glasses of whiskey at David’s house also helped him decide that. We ended up having a leisurely morning and just enjoying the sunrise on Columbus, MS! We ended up starting our day at 10:30am. Sounds late for a travel day – but we had distance to cover but I had read it was mostly uninhabited (so we could go fast) and only 3 locks – easy peasy!
First lock
Stennis – 27 foot drop
There was some work being done on the dam.
We were in the first lock with one other boat but they were a trawler and they go slow so we blew past them.
Second lock
Bevill Lock – 25 foot drop.
Then we saw this super old trawler. Cute Tiffany color!
Some of the leaves are just starting to change color here and it made the landscape that much more beautiful! Bob Ross would have loved this area! Lots of happy leaves to paint!
Houses seemed more like fancy fishing and hunting homes.
And here are the Hateras guys from Chicago and some from Grand Haven Michigan.
Third lock
Heflin Lock – 36 foot drop. 
Before the drop….
After the drop!
When we got out of the lock – we were both going to the same Marina but they only go at 11 mph so we took off! We average 23 mph and with the rivers being so easy to navigate and the water like glass – we had terrific efficiency!
Notice how calm the water is, and it’s been like this pretty much the entire way from Kentucky!
Just terrific reflection!
We came across some workers dredging the river. The book warned me about them but this was the only one we’ve encountered. We took it slow to pass – but really not bad! I wonder how this operation works?
Mooring ball for the dredgers. 
Getting into different rock, soil and sand now.
This day of viewing gorgeous sites makes me think about the Native Americans that lived in this area. The mystical connection between man and nature had to be pronounced on this river! The Mississippian Indians were the most cultured and urban of all the Indians. The Natchez were a part of that tribe and lived in this area. Many things are named Natchez here.
Then we arrived at the Kingfisher Bay Marina in Demopolis, Alabama. We fixed some drinks and threw a few steaks on the grill and sat back to wait for our BFB friends to get here. We did 3 lock for 88 foot drop and a total of 122 miles!
Song of the day: Sweet Home Alabama!!!!
olivemywhiskey's Blog 