We lucked out again with another crisp, clear day. Temperatures in the 40s and very little wind. Tenders were about 30 minutes late getting started, but we were soon on our way to the island and a horse carriage ride through the town, the national forest and to Fort Mackinac.
Our driver, Jessie, was a good guide pointing out the islands only grocery store, the quirks of the team of two horses that pulled our wagon and even sharing a little of his history. Once again we were the first ship of the season. Some on the island think that’s good, others not so much. Even though were not a gigantic cruise liner the sudden influx of 250 plus people on this community can be troubling. At least there isn’t a drawbridge raising for each tender passage. Visitors are referred to as “Fudgies.” There were at least five fudge shops along the main tourist street. All claiming to be the best and all offering multiple flavors of fudge. We passed, but did have a fish and chips lunch and shared a hot fudge sundae.
The fort was well preserved and interestingly was the starting point for the British soldiers that marched on Washington DC and set fire to the Whitehouse. I’m sorry to report that neither Karla or I took any pictures here. The weathered arch continues to deteriorate and is forecast to collapse in twenty or so years. There was a restoration effort, but if it had continued it would no longer be a natural arch.
Upon return we found two bottles of wine in our room. It seems some level of government did not want the ship serving alcohol while moored offshore. Not exactly sure what the authority for this declaration, but Viking gifted everyone a bottle of white and a bottle of red. Oh by the way, we disembark early the day after tomorrow.
One amendment- Yesterday’s exterior ship picture was taken by JAMES MILLER