This is the huge lock which replaced the old boat lift at Fontainettes -shown opposite, it only holds one 38metre working peniche at a time so you can end up with a long wait. It is very gentle to ascend - much easier than many smaller locks
This is a Peniche - one of the large french working barges we met on our travels, they could go much faster than us & were a bit of a worry until we got used to them overtaking us.
To go through the San Quentin Tunnel we had to be towed by an electric chain driven tug. As we were a large hotel boat then a small dutch former tug followed by our narrowboat it didn't make for a smooth tow & we spent most of the trip in reverse trying to keep the rope tight
At over 44 ft deep this lock could give you claustrophobia,agrophobia & vertigo all in one go!
Vals Birthday
This was the french idea of a birthday cake - very expensive but beautiful to look at & delicious to eat
Next notable happening was a visit from Chris, Sarah & Abby. We spent a hot day at Paris Disneyland where Abby had her fill of Princesses, Castles & Mickey Mouse. Poor Sarah had her foot bandaged up & could only hobble round while Val & Abby found an elephant to fly in.
You don't see many boats like this on the canals - its a shame its been left to rust.
