What a difference! We moved downriver to the Commodore Yacht Club in Nashville. Through a squeaker of an entrance off the river and the view opened to docks that were straight and sound, nicely manicured grounds and plantings. Further exploration showed the washrooms, showers, and laundry were spotlessly clean. The docks are swept daily for spider webs. I can’t tell you what a treat it is to walk down a dock without being brushed by spider silk.
Similar to a condo, individuals own their slip and pay monthly/annual fees for maintenance, plus their individual power use. There is a full-time harbour master who mans the fuel dock, pump-out and deals with transients. Jim found us an empty slip and with permission from the owner moved us to B Dock. Three slips from shore it was perfect for getting the dogs off.
It was Friday night and as luck would have it, the monthly BBQ and trivia night was planned for that evening. Everyone on the dock dropped by to welcome us and ensure we were invited. The boaters lounge is floating, of course, right at the end of B Dock. It contains a full commercial kitchen, BBQ, beer taps, as well as indoor and outdoor gathering spaces. The meal was a blend of potluck and smorgasbord with everyone pitching in. We felt very welcome and embraced by the “marina family”.
This, Mr Goggle assures me, is the natural Southern way: being kind, witty, and considerate to everyone encountered – no matter where. Making others feel welcome and comfortable is also part of Southern charm. Firm handshakes and wide smiles abound. Everyone was so helpful. Herb and Belitta dropped us at CabaRay to see a Ray Stevens dinner show (yes, I bought a t-shirt), Steven loaned us a truck to run to get groceries. John sent us a cruising guide for the Tennessee River. Henry and Kim, ex-pat Canadians, joined us for dinner one night to share life histories.
We came for a night, stayed for nearly a week and returned to Barkley Lake in a flotilla of Mainships. Steve and Diana on Hawks Nest and Don and his wife Judy on Delta Fox invited us to join them on a two-day run back down the Cumberland river to Green Turtle Bay.
Moon Dance IV 
My goodness Linda we are so thrilled that you are being treated so well. Glad you found that great marina as well. Can’t blame you for staying longer. I can only hope that we treated American Loopers that got stuck at Kirkfield lock down due to something breaking, were treated as well, supported for food and getting haul out if necessary ….continue your journey. I am loving it and read your posts and share photos with Rob.
Fall has arrived so I’m not sure how many more boating days we will get in. Time to start fall preparations for heading south mid November. Donna
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Wonderful post and superb experience. What a delight to meet fellow travellers who are probably writing the same lovely words about you two!
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