Sundragon

Visit date: Easter 08

Jason Burnham writes: Dear CUCT, Just to let you know N.B.'Sundragon' navigated Froghall tunnel for the first time at Easter 2008.

I did have the cabin lowered on this boat by 2.5 inches, so you can imagine how pleased I was when she slid under the gauge at Poddy's lock with about 2-3 inches to spare at the corners. Still think the gauge is a bit pessimistic as I seemed to have more clearance when I actually went into the tunnel.

I motored through on tick-over and managed not to hit the tunnel roof - thought I would try and get through before I painted the boat! - I need not have worried. I emerged from the tunnel to a round of applause from a boater who had walked to the basin (his boat wouldn't fit) - I tried really hard not to be smug!
I thought the basin was fab and BW seem to have done a good job restoring the winter flood damage - it really is a great destination and a lovely spot from which to walk and explore the area.

Looks like I am part of a reasonably exclusive club who can use the facilities at Froghall. This is a shame. I know the tunnel is low but a fair proportion of the blame should be placed with current boat builders. My boat has an air draught of about 5' 2" at the bow and a max draught of 26" at the widest point at the stern. The internal headroom is 6' 4"- which I would say is adequate for most boaters. I fitted the boat myself so was able to make the necessary adjustments to floor and ceiling etc. Why on earth are these tall boats necessary? However, it was a real thrill to navigate the tunnel for the first time and I am looking forward to coming back again!

Sure enough, he was back a year later! This is his update from the visit at Easter 09:
The Club went down to Cherry Eye bridge for the Easter cruise again this year. With the boat now fully painted I thought I would send a new photo for your website.

Slipped throught the tunnel again with no problems - didn't scratch any paint ! It was a lovely sunny afternoon and as before I had the basin to myself.

Kind Regards,
Jason Burnham

Nice paint job Jason! Note that the photo of a boat in the tunnel on the main Froghall page is also of Sundragon on the Easter 09 trip. Its such a great shot we wanted to be sure that everyone would see it!

We then got a third message from Jason in October!

The Club late cruise was down to Cherry Eye Bridge at the end of September and it gave me the opportunity to navigate the tunnel for the second time this year. I have taken the boat through six times now without touching anything!! Tempting providence I think!. It was a lovely Saturday afternoon and we had the basin all to ourselves as on the two previous visits. I have attached a photo for your website.

If I send any more photo's Steve might have to give me another web-page!!.

Best regards,
Jason Burnham

[You might be right there Jason, I'll allow you one more photo! - Steve]