Day 35 – 11/7/23

Starting location: Anchorage in Natchez Trace Inlet, MS

Weather: High 40s in am. Got to 80 in early evening. Partly cloudy then sunny

Ending location: Midway Marina, MS. MM 394 on the Ten-Tom

Statute miles: Approximately 21 miles

General summary: Restful night. Only boat in anchorage. Took the dinghy to shore for Cocoa and then explored a few of the other inlets. Lots of trees still changing color and dropping leaves. After pulling up anchor, returning to the Ten-Tom, and heading South, we motored up to a group of boats in line file. After radio communication, we joined their flotilla (10 boats total) and locked through three locks with relative ease and speed. There are a total of twelve locks from Grand Harbor, TN to Mobile, AL, so we were happy to have the company and the coordination! Most of us ended up in Midway Marina on the transient dock for the night. We exchanged boat cards (business cards for boats with pictures, names, and contact information – which we are attempting to do electronically with limited success) and got to know each other a little. Then, we all decided to meet up at 5pm at a scenic sitting area in the marina with shade and comfy chairs – the first docktale we attended! That turned into a dinner gathering where we continued to trade stories and learn from each other. We made plans to continue locking through with them tomorrow, at first light. Of note, we are close to Tupelo, Elvis’ birthplace. Since we won’t be going to Memphis, which in on the Mississippi, I thought I’d at least mention the proximity.

Boater information: Midway Marina uses Dockwa. They were exceptionally helpful organizing and helping with dockage. There is a large grassy area for people and dogs to walk around and allow for some leg stretching. Also has some very nice gathering areas for Loopers and a restaurant with great Southern food. They were out of some hard liquor for drinks, but you can bring your own. They no longer have a hot tub, but there is a courtesy car, gas (diesel and ethanol-free), power, water, showers, laundry (only $1 per load), and good Wifi. They have a good craft beer selection at the floating office.