Thank you friends Christian, Chantal, Val and Mike for your words of encouragement and also to the others who have emailed and called.
We also received the exciting news this morning that Wendy (and Dave) efficiently produced granddaughter #2 last night! Fantastic and we had some Moet et Chandon tonight to celebrate (thanks Liz!)
Christian, I am not sure the President can solve this in time but we know he would listen to you if you wrote to him!
We came South along the Seine to Evry. This is the Ecluse before the place with all the problems. The Eclusier was very kindl; he came down and chatted with us while we obtained some water from his hose. He even showed us a comfortable and safe spot where we could stop in front of a lock which is out of order. So kind! He knew more about what was really happening than some of the Head Office people.
The Assistant Director of the Haute Seine Division oif the VNF has been very honest and helpful in advising us and answering questions.
We cannot wait around until finally Coudray lock is opened- a month or more. They have decided to recommission the second lock which has been out of operation for 15 years but this will take about three weeks (timing not guaranteed) and involves dredging and repairing control gates and valves.
We have not been able, at this late stage, to find somewhere else to leave the boat for winter.
Singapore airlines flights are fully booked for more than a month ahead so changing is not an option.
A harbour about 15kms North has kindly rearranged their boats and made a space for Anja. So, we will take her there tomorrow and she will be safe for a month. Simon from the boatyard in Laroche Migennes will come and take Anja "home" for winter as soon as the Seine is unbnlocked.
We will fly back to Australia on Friday (60hours from now).
This is a very expensive solution. The only alternative would be for David to stay on for 5-6 weeks and take the boat back and hope to get a flight booking. That would entail problems wth The Australian Tax & Health authorities.
So, that is the decision- leave the boaty and go home.
Best Regards,
Dave and Penny