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In 1977 we hired our first narrowboat from Anglo Welsh at Market Harborough.From that moment our destiny was set. In 2006 we finally purchased our own brand new 57' narrowboat which we named 'Free Spirit'. Our aim is to travel the length and breadth of all the navigable rivers and canals of the UK. This will be our story as it unfolds.

Saturday 18 June 2016

Ferry and U boats, Weird clouds and busking with a difference.

 Friday 17th

A trip to Nottingham yesterday for the usual NHS appointments saw us both given the all clear so we can now enjoy the rest of this years cruising season without worry. On our very late return (11pm) another boat had joined us. Carpe Diem. Thought I recognised the boat and chatting to them this afternoon and finding out their names, Andy and Richard, turns out they also know Doug and James nb Chance. Small world ain't it.


So today we decided to cross the Mersey..... with the ferry not FS! I applaud all those of you who have done that trip because watching the outgoing tide racing out, and I mean racing, was frightening. No way would I even contemplate doing that even though Ian is desperate to give it a go. I'm having kittens at the thought of doing the tidal Trent from Keadby to Newark later this year so crossing a vast stretch of the Mersey.....absolutely no way!!! Before we reached the ferry terminal a door stood open with the words, come see the Piermasters house during the war. It was free entry and tucked away somewhat so no other person was viewing. Some of the furniture brought back memories of grandparents, very nostalgic and worth a visit.



 Anyway the Ferry was already in when we arrived and purchasing tickets for the Ferry and U Boat  (£17 for two concessions) we made our way to the bow and prime position to take in our surroundings. We stayed on for the round trip of 50 minutes before then getting off at Woodside where the U Boat was on display. But just before we docked, there... seen in the water, a black head. For a moment I thought a dog had got itself in a spot of bother but turns out it was a seal. Could kick myself that I didn't get a photo but one minute it was there and the next gone!




We spent a good two hours at the U Boat 584, fascinating to read the story, how it was raised from it's watery grave, and see the disassembled boat. Had to be cut up in sections to bring it to it's final resting place. Shame really but we did get to see parts of the very rusty interior.



Then it was back on board the ferry for the short 10 minutes back to the terminus.
Having the rest of the afternoon we walked up to the Radio City tower and after paying £5 we were taken to the top where the panoramic views were stunning.


And seen in the centre.


And weird clouds


And the only wildlife seen today.




This below FS.

5 comments:

nb Chance said...

Glad to see you are moored next to friends Andy & Rich on nb Carpe Diem, our friends Ian & Cheryl on nb Winedown are also there! Hope to see you at some point on the L&L we are hoping to get upto York first! Enjoy your time in Liverpool.

Ian and Irene Jameison said...

We met Ian and Cheryl at the rally, and mentioned you both to Andy and Rich when they arrived as I recognised the boat. Everyone seems to know you! Hope to see you soon. Xxx

Anonymous said...

Wow Irene how exciting, you are packing in as many trips/activities as possible.
Most folks take pics of the buildings but your blog is always different, especialy with all your wonderfully detailed wildlife pics.
Looking forward to more of the same, thanx, it must take much of your time to post it all too.
nb oakfield

Pip and Mick said...

The jellyfish in Salthouse Dock are just amazing. I think we counted seven when we were there in our share boat a few years ago. The water is so clear and deep and you are surrounded by alien jellyfish. Enjoy your time there.
Pip

Halfie said...

The tidal Trent is a treat. We did it same direction as you two years ago, overnighting at Torksey, so we had the tide with us as much as poss. Free Spirit will love it!

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