Pleasure-Boat Cruises All the Rage on Dismal Swamp Canal
deep creek lock park, dismal swamp canal, merritt walter, national oceanic and atmospheric administration, recreation, the bonny blue, waterfront,
Pleasure-boat excursions on the Dismal Swamp Canal seemed like a winning idea to naval architect Merritt Walter – even if others pooh-poohed the notion. Determined‚ the retired National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration veteran fiddled for years with his designs for a canal-cruising passenger boat – and in 2001 the Bonny Blue was launched.
Today the sleek 72-foot‚ 1920s-style passenger yacht takes overnight voyagers from Deep Creek Lock Park in Chesapeake‚ Virginia‚ to Elizabeth City and back in classic nautical elegance. Eight private staterooms boast large windows‚ private baths and luxurious decor. Walnut‚ tapestries and brass fittings adorn the air-conditioned interior of the ship‚ which offers guests indoor and outdoor observation decks‚ a piano lounge and dining room‚ and an open-air deck where cocktails are served in the evening.
The voyage takes passengers through old canal towns and past abundant wildlife. After a picnic lunch onboard‚ passengers then spend the evening in town. The Bonny Blue leaves the next morning for its sail to Deep Creek‚ arriving in mid-afternoon.
Walter captains the ship. His wife Bonny‚ he says‚ is the social director. And both enjoy mingling with guests‚ many of whom are repeat passengers.
“Most of our customer base is around our age – 68 – and we really enjoy that. People wind up being bosom buddies by the time they get off the boat‚” says Walter. “One lady has been back three times and always brings another group with her. People just love this.”
Story by Laura Hill
Photo by Stephen Cherry
