Erie Canal East part 1

The eastern section of the Erie Canal begins at Sylvan Beach. This thriving tourist town has absolutely everything imaginable to make summertime fun. Its wide sandy beach stretches for over 3 miles. The water is shallow and filled with families frolicking in the surf and sunbathing on beach chairs. Just off shore a long line of boats bob at anchor with many dozens more tied up along the walls of the canal. Even though we had managed to arrive very early, it was impossible for us to find space here for our boat and we were forced to motor a little further downstream to a marina where they were able to accommodate us in their last berth.

Our stroll into town took us through a leafy trailer park which was surprisingly beautiful. Its shady lanes were laid out in meandering curves around lagoons filled with run-abouts and party boats. All of the “trailers” had been converted into permanent dwellings with wide covered porches, flower boxes and extensive perennial gardens. The whole park was sheltered with a canopy of mature trees—makes you rethink the whole concept of trailers! The main street of town was lined with a variety of tasteful establishments selling ice-cream, pizza and full-course meals. There were a few outdoor cafes and a lovely park complete with arts and craft vendors, benches and a bandshell. A country and western duo were set up here serenading a small crowd with old favourites and later acting as MC for the local talent show. We watched in amazement as little girls carefully coiffed and made-up strutted their stuff—singing and dancing with the confidence and skill of seasoned professionals! Where do they learn these things?

As the afternoon drew to a close the midway opened up with a ferris wheel, merry-go-round and even a small roller coaster. There were slots for gamblers and funnel cakes for the kids. The talent show at the bandshell closed down and a marching band started up. None stop entertainment. We strolled the few blocks back to our boat to the fading strains of a John Phillips Sousa number and spent another relaxing evening with cold drinks out on the deck.