Chicago Day 4-Joliet area

Chicago Day 4-Joliet area

We think this 50 mile segment is the worst one ever! It’s all very heavy industry and barge fleeting operations loading everything from wood chips to asphalt to grain, with the tugs grinding back and forth across the river re-arranging their strings. We went through the electric fish barrier without incident (some Mycruisers have reported damage to boat electronics). My wry observation is that the only reason invasive Eurasian Millfoil could grow up to 10 feet off the bottom is because invasive Zebra mussels have made the water so clear.

Commercial pushboats with barges have priority for the locks, so one going 4.5 MPH that we passed going 7 MPH gets to go down first while we wait idling around for 2.5 hours. Use AIS and talk to the Lockmaster (by phone) to find the best time to show up at the Arrival Point.

The Joliet city wall (no RR or showers) is the conventional spot for loopers to stay after this tense long (in time, not distance) stretch. We made a reservation for $50 a few miles further at Harborside Marina, in a basin far off the river 100% protected from wakes and traffic. It also has a pool and 42 cute waterfront cottages.I don’t know what the City charges, but this marina is worth it after a long ugly stressful day when you want a hot shower and a peaceful night!Okumaya devam et