We took it easy today – a little too easy? First, we continue south on the Volga, sailing for miles alongside rows of houses on the starboard side until we reach the junction with the Volga-Don Canal and the first lock to the Don… where we have to wait until the cargo barges in front of us have been cleared. This gives us an opportunity to explore the area, talk to local workers and learn a thing or two about everyday life here.
This continues all day long. In through a lock, out through a lock, a chat here, a chat there. Until it starts to get dark and it becomes clear that we will have to spend the night somewhere in the canal system (the locks are operated 24 hours a day to keep transport flowing, but I avoid navigating in the dark if possible).
At lock no. 9, Lena asks if we can moor and spend the night – this is unusual, but those in charge realise that it makes no sense to continue. They help us moor at the quay wall. Alexej, the electrician at the lock, which was built in 1952 and has since been magnificently restored, even brings us a cable reel, which together with mine is enough to supply us with electricity. So we have hot soup – and fine tea the next morning. Finally, Alexej comes by again to ask if everything worked out and wishes us a pleasant onward journey!