We were all up pretty early and got going. We soon reached our first lock of the trip, but unfortunately, we didn't realize, that on Sundays it doesn't open until 10am, and it was about 8:45. We tied up along the side of the river, and when 10 rolled around, we entered the lock behind another boat. It was a large lock, but the change in water levels was imperceptible.
Leaving the Het Esmeer Marina
Our first lock (and next picture)!
We passed by a lot of nice scenery along the way, and quite a few large barges.
Ferry crossing
We ultimately arrived in Dordrecht, and the Haven Master gave us instructions on entering the marina. It took some skill on David's part to maneuver this very big boat through two small bridges and into a tight spot. Fortunately, a very nice gentleman named Phil, came over to help us. It turned out he was a Scot, currently living in England, but spending 10 weeks in the Netherlands. We chatted with him for a long time, and got a good lunch recommendation and another good one for fresh bread for tomorrow's breakfast.
Our helpful boat neighbor, Phil
We set off from our marina to find the lunch place, called Visser's Poppertjes. We got a nice outside table. Adele and I ordered "toasties" which is grilled cheese sandwiches, and of course poppertjes to share. David just had the poppertjes. Poppertjes are these teeny, fluffy pancakes with butter and powdered sugar. To die for!!
Walking to lunch
Ham and cheese toasties
Poppertjes!
Our marina!
Across the water from us is a museum called Huis Van Gijn. It's the 19th century home of the Van Gijn family, just as it was. Particularly interesting was a video, where a bunch of actors actually lived in the home for 24 hours. Two of them played the Van Gijns, the rest were maids and cooks. They acted out as if they were the actual people for one day. I can assure you, being the wealthy home owner was much better than being the household help!! The following are pictures from the museum, including an area where we were able to dress up in their actual clothes.
After this museum, we went back to the boat and sat on top, with a few cocktails, enjoying the sun!
Can you spot David and Adele on our boat?
Our boat!
Later, we went to dinner, which was right across the water from our boat. Food was delicious and the waiter was so lovely!
Calamari appetizer
Dave's fish and chips
Adele and I both had the cod fillet
One of the best desserts I ever had (which I offered to share) - vanilla ice cream, marscapone cream, fruit compote and crunchy nuts!
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