4 miles to Norton Junction

We don't seem to be starting off very early this holiday. But then, that's what holidays are all about, isn't it? 

Our first priority this morning (Tuesday) is to tackle the M1 motorway. Not such a massive task as the canal goes under the roadway.

The continuous sound of the traffic is something that we try to avoid when considering where to moor for the night. It's not always that easy. 

Anyway, stopped at the top of the flight and the captain set off to book us in for passage down the locks. 

We had to wait for nearly an hour as there were 2 boats coming up. Time for a cuppa and a good look at all the books and DVDs in the services area. 

Once we got going the captain was in her element.

That's half the fun of boating, all the chats you have with boaters and lock keepers.

While I avoid getting drowned!

This one wasn't too bad but longer boats were being advised to keep as far forward as possible to be on the safe side.

After the locks it was good to see that the swan population is healthy this year.

And so to Norton Junction where the captain took us round the corner first time. No reversing, no hesitation, no bad language just straight round. 

Humph!

Why doesn't it work like that for me? Perhaps that's why she's the captain!

And here we are moored just a little further on with a lovely view.

And a view back to the junction.

And a look at the boat from the bridge (2nd one along)

Looks idyllic.