After the problems experienced with the Dutch waterway stoppages, we have enjoyed a splendid time in the beautiful and historic town of Elburg with the clouds parting, allowing us to enjoy the July sunshine.
Our departure from Urk had been thwarted at first by the closure of the Urkersluis lock, which was going to give us access to the Urkervaart and allow us to avoid the 20 knot winds in the Ijsselmeer but we had to brave all that; only to find that the Roggebotsluis on the Randmeren was also out of action too! A night spent on an isolated waiting quay, needing the dinghy to transport Max to shore for his exercise had tested the patience and ability of the boat and crew, but we had overcome these difficulties and were compensated by securing the best mooring in Elburg from which to enjoy our stay.
After a splendid restorative meal at The Grand Cafe, and with all facilities in the Binnenhaven, including an Internet connection, we caught up with our writing and planning to get us back on schedule and this put us back in contact to organise our forthcoming visits of guests.
On Thursday night in Spakenburg, we will be welcoming Dutch publisher and Brooms friend Inez Stertefeld on board for the evening who will stay with us for our cruise to Naarden on Friday and then on Saturday, Kathleen's Niece Sarah and her boyfriend Navin will be next on board for the trip to Muiden on Sunday before our final leg to Amsterdam on Sunday; delivering them to Schipol for their flight home!
The two months in The Netherlands have flown by and soon we start the logistics of collecting our car, driving back to England with Max on the ferry; returning by air to Lady Martina and then cruising her home!
A very exciting and enjoyable summer trip!
Our full schedule: see http://www.ladymartina.com/cruise-logs/2016/east-coast-cruises-9
