The MV Eurogracht, carrying Oso from Brisbane, arrived near New Orleans in the Mississippi River on Sunday night. Karl and I were taken with the loadmaster out to the anchored ship. It was wonderful to see Oso sitting proudly on the deck after 7 weeks at sea. We were able to go aboard Oso and begin getting her ready during the 5 hours it took for the loadmaster and crew to prepare her for launching.
It was nearly 11 pm when Oso was finally back in the water and we did not think it was wise to begin our 20 mile trek further up the Mississippi in the dark. This part of the river is loaded with large commercial vessels including barges and many ocean freighters. The ship's Captain offered to let us tie along side, but we chose to drop behind him and anchor for the night. It was late August when we left Oso in Brisbane, but the main engine and generator started right up. She was ready to go!
Monday morning we motored toward downtown New Orleans and the Industrial Canal and locks, which lead from the Mississippi to Lake Pontchartrain. We are now settled in a marina for a couple days of cleaning and provisioning before heading toward Key West and Fort Lauderdale. It should be a 3-4 day /night run down to Key West where we intend to stop for a couple days before our final leg up to F.L.
Everything about our experience with Sevenstar shipping exceeded our expectations! When I told the Dutch Captain I was surprised she was not dirtier, he said he had his crew give her a fresh water wash prior to arrival. Amazing ....... I give Sevenstar my highest recommendations.
We plan on being home for Christmas.
