Click for Northern Lights Click for Abeking Click for Ocean Alexander Click for Westport Click for Burger

8 Bells for the Dismal Swamp Lockmaster

Discussion in 'General Yachting Discussion' started by 993RSR, Oct 12, 2020.

You need to be registered and signed in to view this content.
  1. 993RSR, Oct 12, 2020
    #1
    993RSR

    993RSR Senior Member

    Joined:
    Jan 15, 2004
    Messages:
    518
    Location:
    Annapolis/ Palm Harbor
    The first time I traveled through the Dismal Swamp canal the lockmaster Robert played his conch shell before opening the lock. Then he told a funny story, jumped in his old pick up and drove to the next lock.
    I heard last year that the Dismal Swamp will not longer be maintained and eventually closed so a friend did the trip in a 68' boat. Big boat for the dismal
    When the Great Bridge lock is out of order the swamp comes in handy.
    Robert did make a dismal boat ride enjoyable. Quite a character.
    https://www.waterwayguide.com/lates...shell-for-dismal-swamp-lockmaster-robert-peek
  2. RER, Oct 12, 2020
    #2
    RER

    RER Senior Member

    Joined:
    Jan 20, 2009
    Messages:
    1,584
    Location:
    Newport Beach CA
    Sad but also heartwarming. 53 is way too young.
  3. Capt J, Oct 12, 2020
    #3
    Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

    Joined:
    Jul 11, 2005
    Messages:
    14,530
    Location:
    Fort Lauderdale
    WOW, I did it once in a 35' SF express and I felt it was pretty small for that. 68's pushing the envelope. It was a fun trip, but once and done and always use the other route.
  4. Ken Bracewell, Oct 13, 2020
    #4
    Ken Bracewell

    Ken Bracewell Senior Member

    Joined:
    Feb 9, 2006
    Messages:
    1,758
    Location:
    Somewhere Sunny
    My Dad took his 92' Trumpy through there in the 90's. Said he dragged bottom the whole way.