C&D Canal and Barnegat Bay

Here we are entering the Atlantic Ocean for the last time on this trip. We are at Barnagat Inlet on the Jersey Shores. Well we left the Chesapeake Bay knowing we only got a taste of it. We are now making our way East to the Atlantic Ocean. We have two options to reach New York City. Our first stop was in Summit, Delaware. It is a quaint place with very little around here but the bike path thru the state park along the C&D canal is superb. We walked it for a mile. It is all paved and two way. We saw the biggest vulture ever on the trail. We spent two days because of inclement weather.

One possible way is by following the coast but not going outside. The alternative is to go outside in the Atlantic Ocean for the 120 miles journey. We didn't decide until we got there and read the weather forecast and the observations from fellow Loopers. The inside route can be shallow and is affected by the wind, shoaling and tides. The outside route can be treacherous with little protection, stronger winds and higher tides. Because of the weather, we chose the inside route from Cape May to Atlantic City. It was a pretty ride with new and old homes and resort communities. There are several bridges and we were lucky to have those that needed opening there was no waiting. We lucked out too on the chosen route. It required our full attention but we had no problems.

We could see the city twenty miles before we arrived in Atlantic City. It is the Las Vegas of the North but not as impressive. The majestic casinos guided us in. We stopped at the Farley Marina at the Golden Nugget Casino. There is a gorgeous boardwalk on the waterfront.

We played a bit, visited some of the sights and met up with other Loopers. It was a great stop. We stayed longer then we wanted because of the rain. On a clearer day, we again took the inside route via Barnagat Bay. This route is more daunting and we called Seatow before taking it. We rode in light fog and drizzle. Not a great day but no problems. We made two stops on this route. It's only sixty=five miles but it's four eyes on deck. Also, it tested our navigating skills. Having to plan our departure as well as our arrival, with tidal currents and levels. Our first stop was at Forked City at Captain's Inn. It's a bar and restaurant but it was a great stop. The manager was apologetic because we did not take the better docks so she did not charge us. We met some great local Jersey Gals and Guys.

We had a wonderful meal there. Four Looper Boats, eight Canadians. Yvon tried the Flaming Grog. It has seven types of liquor that they prepare at your table. Fun to watch.

Our second stop was at Point Pleasant. It was a great stop as it's an easy walk to town. The docks were a bit rocky but it was fine once we tied all the lines. We met some future Loopers Barry and Gretta and she drove us to the grocery store. Hope to see them in Britt some day soon.

Now we are off to New York City. What a sight! Saving the details for later. Here's our journey so far.

Don't wait for tomorrow, for what you can do today, because tomorrow may never come.