Harbor hopping on the great lakes: july 2024

Day 2 of 30

July 13, 2024: Just as we hoped for, the gas dock was empty this morning and we were their first customer. As the young dockhand was fueling up our tanks, he told us that he's worked there for a couple of summers and loves it. When he's not working the docks, he is working the fields. It was fascinating to hear how ambitious he is. I asked him if they have many transient slips compared to seasonal slips and he went on to explain how each of the docks are designated and then he casually mentioned that one seasonal boater reserves 6 boat slips. "What?!" I asked. I said, "I can't say I know anyone who owns more than one boat let alone an entire fleet!"

He shoved us off just in time for the 10:00 a.m. bridge opening. Moments later we were leaving the harbor and heading back on The St. Clair River. 40 minutes later, we were traveling beneath the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron. This is usually a little unnerving for me because the water is often turbulent as Lake Huron rushes into the St. Clair River here, but not this time. We went from gentle ripples in the river to smooth as silk waters in the lake. I believe this is the first time I've experienced calm and peaceful waters right here. The tranquil waters continued and by noon, we were comfortably docked in Port Sanilac Marina. ​

As we got settled into tonight's boat slip, there was someone flying over the marina in what looked like a go-cart with wings. It was so cool! We walked into the marina store to purchase a new drinking water hose. They were so friendly and helpful and had exactly one hose in stock and it fit our needs perfectly. The salesperson told us that we must go to The Alli Bar which is a very short walk into town. 

We spent the afternoon exploring the area in our dinghy. With a small cooler, snacks, towels, and sunscreen in hand, we're always amazed at how many hours can pass before feeling the need to get back to the boat. We found our way over to the beach and relaxed in the sand for a while. The water was so warm and inviting, we both went in for a swim. Then, I laid down on my towel, luxuriating in the warm sun on my skin, the sound of gentle waves, and seagulls calling. This is total bliss to me. For dinner we ate one of our frozen meals we cooked before leaving home and then walked into town to find The Alli Bar. It was everything the salesperson said it would be and more! This place was an antique store; now it's the coolest outdoor bar I've ever seen!  It's located in an alley between buildings and you just have to see it for yourself. The live music was fantastic and as we sat to watch the performance, we realized it was the same person we saw on the beach earlier. Small towns. :-) ​The night sky was flawless and clear with a brightly shining moon, nearly half full.