We decided to stay in a marina across the bay in Portsmouth instead of being in downtown Norfolk where it can be a bit loud and boisterous. We arrived at Tidewater marina early in the day and spent some time organizing and planning our day for visiting Norfolk tomorrow. Norfolk was a busy port and a sharp contrast from the peace and quiet of the Dismal Swamp. Every where we looked entering the port we saw battleships, cranes, tugboats pushing their barges, etc.

Our second day here we took the ferry across the way to downtown Norfolk. Here we visited the Nauticus Museum and the battleship Wisconsin. It was interesting to learn that the Wisconsin, which was built for fighting battles in WWII was recommissioned in 1988 and served in Operation Desert Storm until 1991. We spent several hours in the museum and aboard the Wisconsin learning about Naval history as well as the history of Norfolk.

The following few days we explored the city of Portsmouth where we were staying at Tidewater Marina. As we were in need of groceries we got on our scooters and ventured off to the nearest Lion grocery-the only one in town. After provisioning we explored the town’s historic district. It was a small town rich in maritime history of course! We visited one of the smaller maritime museums and walked the waterfront boardwalk several times over the next few days.

Mother’s Day was on Sunday so I enjoyed phone calls from Nick and Adam, as well as our first video call with Gal since her accident-it was nice to see her and hear her voice. We took a walk around the historic district looking for a place for lunch and happened to find the best pizza ever! We enjoyed our stay here, although extended due to weather, and we are ready to continue our journey home.

Our trip on day 323.