Month: August 2019

Fifty-four degrees woke me this morning, instead of my “normal” alarm.  The coolest we’ve seen yet, as we approach the Northernmost point of our journey.  We traveled 32 miles by water, but only about 6-7 miles, as the crow flies, as our journey U-turned from one anchorage to the next.   We traveled from Thomas Bay to Baie (bay) Fine (pronounced fin), through Killarney, the gateway to the Northern Channel and anchored at the infamous Pool. Killarney was particularly colorful, with small homes, little shops, a lodge, a few marinas, and even a general store.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The Pool, like many, is protected by high walls of granite.  The ride from Killarney to the Pool was as spectacular as the destination itself. A very popular spot of the locals during the summer, we expected many boats on this gorgeous Saturday.  Good fortune was with us and with just a handful of boats, we enjoyed plenty of room to spread out and swing on our anchor.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

After Dale and I anchored our boats, moved our boats, and re-anchored our boats, we were ready for an adventure.  Sandy with a headache and Amanda with a broken foot, GUY TIME finally happened.  This phenomenon is interesting.  I have learned that guy time always comes just in time for guys.  However, for the wives, it’s usually 2 days past due. Whatever, Dale and I were excited about the hike opportunity just a short dinghy-ride away.  I picked up Dale and off we went.  The adventure was to climb to the top of the mountain (maybe a hill, but I claim writer’s privilege) to Lake Topaz.  Our Canadian friends had told us this was a “must do” and, by all means, go swim in the lake.  “It will change your life!”, I was told. We climbed the rugged trail, virtually impassable by the average person and there, before our eyes, was a mediocre little lake with lots of weeds and lily pads. Not discouraged, and wanting my life changed, I dove in, swam a few minutes, and realized life really had not changed.  I threw my shirt and shoes back on and we headed back down the mountain, disappointed in the experience. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Along the way, we ran into 3 high school kids coming from a side trail.  One was on crutches with a cast on his foot.  I asked for his picture to show Amanda that a broken foot should never discourage a brisk hike. I told them we had swum in Topaz but they told me they had just come from there and had not seen me.  After brief directions from them, along with the concern that I may have been swimming in the local sewerage treatment plant, we took off to the real Lake Topaz.  No more disappointment!  This lake was gorgeous, crystal clear, and free of all lily pads. So, donning “most” clothing, I dove in again and my life was changed.  Well maybe not, but it was a thrilling experience.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

After getting back to the boat, Dale and Sandy brought dinner over, and we pigged out on ribs, green beans, red rice, and Dale’s famous homemade cornbread.  We threw a little Sweetwater Honey on the cornbread, and topped off the night with blueberry cobbler. With the perfect weather, the scenery, and the friends, I can honestly say we haven’t had this much fun since…oh, maybe yesterday?

As the day dawned, the fog slowly lifted from the water. A nice young couple from Cincinnati were on this sailboat. One doesn’t have to wait until he is old to chase his dream.

• 

The days are starting to sound the same, as I write.  Beautiful anchorage, nice folks, sunrises that take your breath away.  I write so I can retain the memory of each place, to relish the fresh air, and cool clear waters. We enjoy our friends, the Collins’, whose core values we share, who laugh with and at many of the same things we do, and who, between the 4 of us, make a pretty decent crew.

This day’s travel was from Strawberry Island to Thomas Bay (34 miles).  A protected anchorage that our friends Randy and Audrey said we should not miss.  We arrived early enough to get there before anyone else, so we had our choice of boat positions for anchoring.  Being the early bird puts the stress and responsibility on the late comers, who must be certain to anchor where their boat won’t swing into ours.  The route was a bit tricky for us because we had to veer off the marked channel for the first time. Slowly, noting the water depths to ensure we did not have a casual encounter with granite, we found our way. It was an uneventful arrival, my favorite kind. 

But the highlight of this day had to be the trek through Collins’ Inlet.  I hope you enjoy these half as much as I did (and do). I realize many of them look the same.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Surrounded by high rock granite walls on both sides, left me with a dry mouth, as it was wide open for 4 miles.  I wish my photographic skills did justice to this beauty. Since we first started talking about the doing “The Loop”, seasoned travelers have said, “Wait till you get to the Georgian Bay.” We were not disappointed.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Such interesting landscapes as we have traveled North, and now West, have pulled us into the scene.  Each area has its own flavor and attraction. 

Today was a 40-miler.  Longer than normal and not quite as much fun as the normal 25-30 mile days.  Today’s “stresser” was the tight waterways that are so rocky.  There are places where the view is so deceiving, it is difficult to tell if you are looking at rough water or a rock formation on your proposed route.  As everybody knows, when your boat fights with rocks, the boat always loses. 

My friend, Dale, was a basket case when we arrived at our anchorage.  I thought it was pretty fun, but I had no confrontations below the waterline.  The channels are well marked, but sometimes they can confuse the rookie navigator.  My SOP now, when confused, is to go to neutral, assess, and proceed with caution.  Since we’re usually running only 7 knots, there is usually time to evaluate most situations well in advance.  It is always good to have my navigator beside me at the helm, questioning situations that are precarious.  She follows on paper charts what I am reading on the chart plotter.  We usually argue no more than 3-4 times per day about the proper direction.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Acknowledging that pictures start looking the same on the website, I continue to be amazed at the beauty, hoping to retain some of the memory of these many natural formations.

Relieved and fried from the rock-dodging day, we slipped into the anchorage on the South side of Strawberry Island, logging another 40 miles.  Dale and I both did bow and stern anchors as the forecast called for a little wind, but also a few other boats were near, so we took precautions.  I have learned why boaters go to bed so early. Days like today are fun, but do pull on your mental faculties. Lights out 9:00 pm.

We pulled out of Echo Bay and stretched our day to catch our friends, Dale and Sandy.  Obviously desperate for friendship, they had decided to just hang out on the hook until we knew for sure whether we would make it back after Amanda’s injury. 

• 

• 

• 

We caught them at Stairs Island.  After a brief reunion, we jumped in our dinghies and drove to the combo hardware and grocery store for a few supplies. 

After getting lost only once on the return trip, we put our heads together, plotted our route for tomorrow. Assuming I was done for the night, a little wind came up and pulled my stern loose from the shore because of my poor tying job.  So I had to get another anchor, and with my partner, Dale, in his dinghy, the Honey Queen was reset, ensuring a safe night in the harbor.  There is no substitute for a buddy boat (not to mention the buddy himself). The silver lining to this inconvenient experience was the sky. After all was settled, I went back outside to check lines, lights, position of boat, loose ends, etc. that may interrupt my sleep.  The sky was exploding with stars. In this secluded place, without a cloud above, I saw the Milky Way, for the first time in my life, from horizon to horizon. How does one look at this massive sky and not acknowledge the Creator’s Master Design?  I was reminded of a song I learned in church choir during high school, that I can still sing every verse ….

In the stars His handiwork I see. On the wind He speaks with majesty.          Still He came to set His people free; what is that to me? Till by faith I met Him face to face, and I felt the wonder of His grace. Then I knew that He was more than just a God Who didn’t care, that lived a way out there…

The privilege of this experience humbles me. The gift of the trip, nature, and the relationships gained.  All change perspective.

Pulling double duty now, with a peg-legged first mate, I got the boat ready, paid the marina, and we were on our way.  A plug for Bay Port Marina here:  we were gone for 7 days tending to Amanda’s foot.  They charged us for 4 days and treated us like family.  One of their staff, Robert, texted me a few days later, just checking on her, since he did not see us when we left. Their service, attitude, and first class treatment of the clientele at a first class marina will ensure their continued success into the next generation.  Go to Bay Port Marina when you happen to be in Midland, Ontario.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

We made it to a beautiful anchorage known as Echo Bay, 36-mile trip.  One of thousands of little coves in the Georgia Bay, known also as the 30,000 Islands. We met a nice couple who own a little red tugboat called the Heart Tug.  They travel and know these waterways.  Randy and his wife, Audrey, came aboard and showed us so many “don’t miss” places for our journey through the Bay and the Northern Channel.  They were kind, genteel, encouraging, and just a positive breath of fresh air. Randy also inspired me to dive into the cool waters for a swim.  Wow!  We had a nice rain storm tonight, washing off my filthy boat, still reeling from all the dirty locks we went through.

I suppose we can call this a boat day.  We rose early in Savannah GA., went to Amanda’s doctor appointment, and got an air cast, X ray, and CT scan to verify no surgery was necessary.  Our friend, Stephanie, picked us up at the doctor’s office and scurried us to the airport to catch our direct flight back to Toronto.  Hobbling along, Amanda was wheeled through the airports with the greatest of ease.  We learned that when you are disabled, you get to go through the lines first.  We cleared customs and got the royal treatment from the airport and airline employees.  We do agree that having 2 good legs beats all the royal treatment. 

We landed in Toronto, caught the 2 ½ hour shuttle back to the boat, and then I went grocery shopping at 9 pm and called it a long day.

Fast withdrawals usually take up to 24 hours. Instant withdrawals are completed within about an hour, including approval and payment processing. The key factor isn’t just the method; it’s how quickly the casino approves your withdrawal. Clear them before you request. This is the single biggest cause of withdrawal delays. It can delay your first payout, but it’s a one-time step. The difference between instant and fast withdrawals comes down to how quickly your request is approved, not just the payment method used.

Payout speed refers to how quickly the casino processes withdrawals after you request a cashout. Your actual payout speed depends on your account verification status, withdrawal method, bonus terms, and whether the casino needs to manually review the request. The best paying casinos are not always the ones with the biggest welcome bonuses. The best payout online casinos should make withdrawals easier without encouraging players to chase losses, raise stakes too quickly, or treat gambling as a way to make money. We prioritized established real money online casinos with secure payment systems, responsible gambling tools, clear terms, and reliable customer support. Big bonuses lost value if they came with high wagering, strict game restrictions, short expiration dates, or unclear max cashout limits. They can still offer legitimate redemptions, but the process often includes identity checks, redemption minimums, state restrictions, and longer processing windows. Regulated online casinos are usually the best fit for players who want the most reliable payout experience.

We evaluate mobile performance on web applications and native clients, testing game stability, navigation efficiency, and cashier functionality under standard cellular network conditions. Platforms are prioritized when they offer low-wagering welcome matches and ongoing reload incentives that convert into withdrawable cash without lengthy playthrough grinds. We log actual withdrawal processing medians across every available cashier method, measuring the exact elapsed time from cashout request submission to wallet or account settlement. You’ll often see terms like quick withdrawal online casinos or fast paying casinos used interchangeably. The best instant payout casinos usually offer a wide range of withdrawal methods, including credit cards, bank transfers, and especially cryptocurrencies. Crucially, we verified a 5x wagering requirement on this offer, a metric almost unheard of for bonuses of this magnitude. The cashier transparency is supported by over 20 deposit options, which allow high-volume players to bypass traditional banking delays completely.

Betonline: Top Fastest Payout Online Casino For Mobile

The platform is particularly appealing to players looking for a simple, easy-to-navigate casino that focuses on reliable service rather than flashy features. Away from payouts, betPARX offers ongoing promotions, cashback bonuses and a solid mix of slots, table games and live dealer content. Alongside its withdrawal options, FanDuel offers more than 300 jackpot slots, exclusive titles featuring brands such as Willy Wonka and Love Island, and nearly 100 blackjack games. FanDuel combines reliable payouts with one of the largest collections of jackpot slots and exclusive casino games available in regulated US markets. While first-time withdrawals typically take around six hours slott sportwetten due to account verification requirements, most repeat cashouts are auto-approved and processed within minutes. The best examples of them also have high-payout casino games, generous bonus offers, and a handful of other great perks. Most of the fastest payout online casino sites allow you to play casino games in demo mode. Once you’ve picked a game that you like the look of at any of the instant withdrawal online casinos, it’s a good idea to play it for free as a demo before you spin it for real money.

Different casino games have different payout potential, so the best high RTP casino depends on whether you prefer slots, blackjack, roulette, video poker, or live dealer games. In most cases, the casino still has to approve the request before the payment method takes over. If your account is verified, your bonus terms are cleared, and you choose the fastest available banking option, the top real money online casinos can often process withdrawals the same day or within 24 hours. They clearly list available banking methods, show minimum withdrawal limits, explain bonus terms upfront, and give verified players access to same-day payout options when available. A casino can offer PayPal, debit card withdrawals, or instant banking and still feel slow if it takes too long to review your request. It’s a strong choice for players who want a recognizable casino brand, a genuine live dealer experience, and a reliable, if not same-day, path from deposit to withdrawal. That makes the sign-up process simple, letting players start exploring the game library right away instead of hunting for a code.

Betmgm Casino: Best For High-rtp Casino Games

Low wagering offers, especially 1x playthrough bonuses, are usually better for fast payouts than large bonuses with 20x, 30x, or 40x wagering. The sub-1-hour turnaround on Bitcoin and Litecoin requests ensures you can receive winnings without administrative delays, and we can confirm it only took 15 minutes on average during our testing. DraftKings, BetRivers, and FanDuel are among the fastest payout online casinos on our list because they offer same-day withdrawal options through fast banking methods. We gave extra credit to low wagering online casinos, especially offers with 1x playthrough or simple bonus rules. For fast payouts, FanDuel and BetRivers stand out most because their current offers include 1x playthrough, which gives players a much cleaner route to cashing out bonus-linked winnings.

Away from its cashier, Golden Nugget offers one of the strongest table game portfolios among regulated US casinos. First withdrawals generally take around 10 hours to complete identity verification, with more consistent processing times on future withdrawals. Golden Nugget combines accessible withdrawal limits with a strong selection of classic casino games and VIP rewards. The casino's simple interface and smooth cashier experience are particularly appealing to newer players. First-time withdrawals generally take between six and eight hours to complete verification, but repeat withdrawals are usually processed significantly faster.

Large cashout requests are more likely to be flagged for manual review, which can add days to the process. Thankfully, there are a few simple things you can do to help move things along and get your winnings sooner. Knowing which terms affect payout speed at instant cash out casinos helps you keep your winnings moving without unnecessary delays. First things first, log in to your account at the quickest withdrawal online casino and click on the “Cashier” or “Withdrawal” section. Follow these simple steps to make sure you get your cash as fast as possible at any same day cash out online casino. For players who still prefer traditional methods, bank transfer casinos for fast payouts offer a nice balance between speed and trust. Additionally, prepaid cards can be difficult to reload, making them less convenient than options used at the easiest withdrawal online casino sites. Since these cards are preloaded with funds, they provide instant access to your money.

Between the low playthrough, strong game selection, and quick cashout options, BetRivers is one of the best online casinos for players who want fewer bonus headaches. For payouts, BetRivers offers same-day withdrawal potential through its faster banking methods, especially once your account is verified. The casino also has a well-rounded game library with slots, blackjack, roulette, live dealer games, and popular jackpot titles. BetRivers keeps the math cleaner, which makes it one of the better options for players who want a realistic shot at turning bonus value into a cashout. That low wagering requirement is the biggest reason BetRivers belongs high on this list. The current offer gives new players 100% of losses back up to $500, plus 500 Lion Link Bonus Spins, with only a 1x playthrough on bonus money when using affiliate code BONUSSPINS.

BetMGM Casino is one of the best payout online casinos for players who care about game quality as much as withdrawal speed. Below, we ranked the top casino sites for players who want fast payouts, fair value, and fewer hoops between a win and a withdrawal. The best payout online casinos do more than process withdrawals quickly. The best payout online casinos make it easier to turn a winning session into actual money. Once those conditions are cleared, you're free to cash out normally using any available method, with fast options like Play+ or PayPal typically processing within hours. Most online casinos will block withdrawal requests until all wagering requirements have been met. No, bonus funds must be fully wagered before you can withdraw any winnings. The main difference is how quickly the casino approves the request – the payment method itself is often fast in both cases.

We have the prognosis on Amanda’s foot. No surgery. Because of swelling, however, they would not apply the walking boot at her appointment Tuesday morning. Ice and elevation for a few days, return Monday morning for the walking boot, and if all goes as planned, we will be on a plane on Tuesday. More later.

We had decided to forego our free night and instead, move on Saturday morning to our anchorage. Dale and I communicated on our exit time. He needed to top off his fuel, we, a pump-out, and we would be on our way.

Amanda and I prepped the boat, which consists of checking oil and transmission levels, getting dishes back into the cabinets, grabbing a little breakfast, disconnecting from shore power, and setting the lines from secure positions to what we call “doubled back”. They are simply looped around the cleat back to the boat to hold it in place and permit a quick, easy release when I start moving the boat from the slip.

With shore power disconnected, I was rolling the 50′ long power cord (1″diameter) up while Amanda was to jump off the boat and grab our splitter. She swung her legs over the rail to step on the finger dock adjacent to the boat when I heard a splash. Only 6 feet from her, I turned and she was out of sight. I stepped to the side of the boat, looked down into the water just as Amanda’s head popped up above the surface. She had fallen into the water between the boat and the finger pier. With the assistance of the guy in the next slip, we managed to pull her out of the water. Thankfully, she didn’t hit her head before going under. Once we got her dry and warm, and the adrenaline subsided, her foot started hurting. We decided to get it checked out at the hospital just to make sure she was okay. Five hours and an X-ray later, she had a cast on her right foot. Two broken bones. The orthopedic doctor said surgery may be necessary.

We spent another night at the marina, obviously, as we got our wits about us, trying to determine our next step. We made the decision to go back to Savannah so we can deal with our doctors and utilize our medical insurance, which is not recognized in Canada. Sunday morning, we bid goodbye to our dear friends, the Collins. With wet eyes on all 4 of us, we waved as they drove away, while we sat in our slip. This unforeseen blessing of having a buddy boat has been a huge part of the trip. Dale and I have become like brothers (me talking–he may say something different). We bounce ideas off one another, help each other out on any task, watch out for one another as we travel, and on and on. The saddest part of this experience is we had to say goodbye this morning. Our hope is we will be able to catch them, if the Lord wills.

We will fly home Monday, August 12, see our doctors, determine if surgery is really necessary, and plan from there. Our options are: 1/surgery or no surgery, with the right kind of cast, we may be back in a matter of days, and continue the adventure, with a peg leg as a mate; 2/ call it a season, winterize the boat, and come back here in the Spring, and continue on. We hope to see a doctor Tuesday morning. That visit and prognosis will dictate the next leg of our venture.

As disappointed as we are, we are so grateful this accident was so minor. This simple slip could have been tragic. More later. Hey, this is the definition of an adventure, right?

Leaving late morning from Orillia, we wound the Trent Severn Waterways enjoying the everchanging landscape.

Our first obstacle of the day was a railroad swing bridge. Typically, you call the bridge keeper on Channel 14 and the bridge magically opens. Occasionally, you sound 1 long blast on the boat horn (my favorite because it sounds like a train), and then the bridge opens. But this morning, we called, then honked, and then waited. We were getting ready to pull over and tie to the concrete wall, when we heard the sound of a train, which was our clear signal that we are NOT the priority here. After the long train completed its crossing, the bridge-keeper came and told us a another train was coming, and we would have to wait for it to pass. And then he hoped he would be able to squeeze us through before the next train. If not, we would be able to tie to the wall and wait until 4:00 pm (currently 12:50). The passenger train passed by and he came out and told us we were in luck. By this time, there were 4 of us treading water in front of the bridge, hoping for the passage. We soon passed and continued the day.

• 

• 

• 

These pictures provide a panorama of scenes along the way. The rock foundations you hope to avoid with the boat, beauty of people’s residences along the way, the funny boats all make this experience a pleasant one. One we will treasure long after this adventure is over.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

With only 3 locks remaining ahead of us, we came to Lock 43, the tallest of the single stage lifts on the Trent Severn Waterway. We tied up to watch for awhile because there was so much traffic going through the lock. This is what is looked like from the top of the lock.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Then it was our turn to go through and be lowered more than 40 feet.

• 

• 

• 

We made it to the wall at the Big Chute, Lock 44. The park system of Canada allows you to tie up for a nominal fee and be in line for the next morning haul, when it opens. This is the lock where the boat is actually picked up out of the water and carried over the railroad and dropped (gently) into waterway on the other side.