Grafton, IL


Morning at the dock just before we pulled away.


Another day of travel on calm waters headed to Grafton, IL. This was day #7 of consecutive travel days which we have never done on our whole trip but the wind and weather have been amazing so we keep going. 


The water continues to be muddy, but calm in the Illinois River.



This type of tow/barge does not create havoc for us since it is carrying chemicals and is very flat.  We don't get much wake from them.


We arrive at Grafton Marina which is referred to as the Key West of the Mid West!  We will see!


We were fortunate to get a slip under cover.  Reminded us of Canyon Lake. The temperatures for the next couple of days are in the mid 90s so any shade is welcomed.




As we traveled to Grafton we did see many bald eagles and I guess this sign explains why. They are a little early since it's only September but …..



One of the restaurants we went to had all these pictures of the bald eagles all over the walls and ceiling.




On one of the 3 nights we were there a shuttle picked 10 of us up at the marina and took us up to a winery and restaurant with wonderful views of the Illinois River.


These were the views from the winery (and with the marina below).




The gentleman with the ball cap on is the owner of the winery and restaurant. He was explaining to us his recent purchase of a $2 million gondola lift that he will be installing over the next several months. The aerial lift will transport people from near the marina all the way up the mountain to his restaurant.



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