Kaag

We left Gouda at 8am and motored all day north through the canals through coumtryside, fields and towns. For much of the time the water level in the canal is several feet above the surrounding land.

We had a strong headwind much of the time. There were about 40 gaffers in convoy and must have made an impressive sight. We went through many opening bridges, but several times had to wait for the bridge to open. With the canal crowded with gaffers and a stiff wind manoevering Bonita can be a challenge.

Fortunately with a skilled foredeck crew of D, Sian and Ant it was relatively easy to find some fixed object to tie up to until it was time to move on. 

After hours of motoring we came to Kaag, which consists of an area of lakes, islands and shore facilities. We tied up on an island which is also a nature reserve with a few other Dutch and English gaffers.

We were alongside Clytie, owned for nearly 100 years by the Masters family. As there are no washing facilities (or any facilities) on the island Sian and I had a swim, as did Clyties crew. In the evening we were serenaded by an excellent vocal group, singing sea shanties in English, Dutch and French.

 
Tomorrow we have to be up early to catch a rail bridge that only opens once every 2 hours, and then, I hope, on to Harlem