Grey clouds hung over us as we left our mooring. In the last few days the canal has held us tightly in its dense tree-lined grip and awarded us with only brief glimpses of the world outside. The sky has been grey and the wind cold. Villages deserted and sign of life lacking. We are now officially canal-crazy and desperate to escape.
At 1pm we left the last lock on the canal and gleefully headed out onto the wide and welcoming River Saone. Everyone’s spirits lifted. Other barges came into view and their crews waved; the river banks seemed so far away and the trees did not try to suffocate us. Even Lobelia seemed happier. She had wide deep water and her speed increased and the drone of her engine changed to a new brighter tone.
Arrived in Pontailler sur Saone and moored alongside a barge owned by a friendly Australian couple. And, after a spot of car repatriation we invited our new neighbours to join us for a celebratory glass of champagne.
Buoyed with bubbles, relief at being on the river and delight at defeating the mosquitoes - we went out for a meal.
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