Motoring

We were late!

Departing Vitry le François

We popped out to see the Marianne get away. We were sure they had just waited until this morning before setting off and we guessed the lock would be open to them about 9am. But we did not reach the canal until 9:30 and there they were, already through the lock and rounding the bend to leave Vitry.
We called and waved but we were not seen - except by the couple walking their dog in front of us.
So we watched them away and did some shopping and then decided that they could not be too far and wondered if we could catch them further down. We knew where they were heading, that it took 4 days, and involved 100 locks. They can't be far!
So I plotted a route along the D995 that roughly follows the canal. After Vitry en Perthois, we turned right and along the long straight road that parallels the long straight canal. The GPS in map mode showed us our position, the canal, and more helpfully the bridges that cross it. We selected a bridge that was crossed by a small country road and drove to the canal. There they were, about 1km further on just approaching the next bridge.

Bridge and Lock at Brusson

Doubling back we continued along our road. The next bridge would be too late, so we went for the next crossing after that.
Now as it happened the next crossing was the "main" road as it came into Brusson. The road went over the canal as the canal turned sharp left, and there was a lock right next to the road. Helpfully there was a small road along the canal on which we could park. We did so and walked round the bend to see how far away they were. Plenty of time!
Coffee in the warm September sun.

Skilful rope work avoids legwork

Then suddenly the lock gates sounded and started to empty. Most of the locks (not at Vitry) are fully automatic. Marianne had announced her approach and the lock was opening to be ready. Well before the boat rounded the corner, the lock was empty and open to receive them.

Marianne, as we were told, is a very heavy girl. She turned the corner reluctantly and chugged toward the gates. This time we were seen. I even had my photo taken. We watched and photographed the boat enter, tie up, and then the lock fill and open and permit them on their way. Slow, stately and majestic, - if a little smoky whilst  low in the lock with both gates shut.

Departing on a higher way

It felt good to see them going again, fun to watch the lock operate, and a little sad to see them disappear.
More photos on the photo album page.