As we started down the Cal-Sag Waterway, the beautiful buildings of Chicago gave way to the changing industrial landscape along the Illinois River. The river system was America's earliest highway and it continues to be a major source of transportation of goods. No sightseeing boats travel these waterways, strictly working tows and barges and a few pleasure craft, such as Blue Moon. Barge loads three wide and five long are common on these waters. It amazed us to see the tow captains navigate the narrow winding curves of the waterway.
We started down the Illinois River and prepared for the locks ahead - O'Brien, Lockport, Brandon and Dresden. We knew time was a factor because Brandon Lock was scheduled for maintenance and would be closed on August 16 and August 17 from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m those days. We were favored by the Rivers and made it through the locks in very quick time.
After a long day on the waterway we tied up to the quiet park-like Joliet, IL wall, the same as the Joliet in the Blues Brothers movie. We, along with boats Oceanus, CJ, and Lazy Suzan, shoved off the Joliet wall at 5:30 a.m. The lock-master told us to be there by 6:00 a.m. and he would lock us through before the 7:00 a.m. closing. We made it through and arrived at Heritage Harbor, Ottawa, IL by 4:00 p.m. We were tired after a long day.
Joliet wall - CJ, Oceanus, Blue Moon and Lazy Suzan.
The next day we motored south and west. We passed and overtook several tugs along the way. We always contact a tow before we overtake and ask which side the tow captain wants us to pass.
Peoria, IL home of Caterpillar, Inc Worldwide Headquarters and IVY (Illinois Valley Yacht Club) photo below, was a favorite spot from our first loop so we decided to stay there again.
Beautiful clouds. Blue Moon left boat on back wall. Lazy Suzan front right.
Mike, joined the Lazy Suzan crew in Chicago and helped crew to Peoria, IL. We enjoyed getting to know Mike and learn about his company, Champion Crane.
The locals are friendly and an on-site restaurant is convenient and has good food. Lazy Suzan invited us to join them on a tour of Caterpillar, which was an enjoyable tour.
King standing in lower right - that's one big Cat!
Peoria has, by far, the best local farmers market, full of bountiful produce, beautiful flowers and local musicians.
Our next stop, and just about the only choice, is Beardstown. IL. For the low price of $25, we tied to Logsdon Tow Service's enormous bollards of a 40' by 200' rusty working box barge that hauls cargo up and down the Illinois River.
Last day on the Illinois River finds industry giving way to scenic river banks and rolling green hillsides. Again this year we tied to the newly rebuilt Riverdock Restaurant, which was destroyed by a fire in 2016. We enjoyed a great dinner and breakfast, Next morning Lazy Suzan, C J and Blue Moon made it to our temporary destination, Grafton Harbor, MO (St. Louis).
Tied up at the Riverdock.
Enjoying dinner crew of Lazy Suzan, CJ and Blue Moon. Is that strawberry rhubard pie, Lee?
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