Joe writes: We are the only boat here on this beautiful dock (Syracuse) this Weekend. I'm not herd bound but this is strange in consideration of this beautiful facility and area. In these economic hard times, this is truly Dennis replies. Syracuse Inner Harbor is an artifact of the former large canal maintenance facility located here, and an attempt at gentrification of the neighborhood. As it is several miles off the beaten path of the direct canal route it remains little used. With occasional music(?) concerts at the facility, things can get loud there. But, with the Erie Weight Lock Museum and Pyramid Mall within walking distance (opposite directions) it is a good place to spend several days. The Salt Museum is within public transportation or a cab ride. The New York State Fair is also accessible via public transportation from there. With teenage groups of wanderers at night, we often felt better staying on the wall days, and anchoring in the embayment for nights. A similar situation exists at Rochester, downstream (north) just a few miles on the Genesee River from the Canal and easily navigable. Here, gentrification is a little farther along on the west wall, just above the Court Street Bridge and dam. Water and electric are available at no charge in both locations. Rochester's outstanding attractions to this cruiser were the George Eastman Home (father of photography), and an easy bike ride downstream to museums, art exhibits, and Rochester's Great Falls. Not Niagara, but impressive. Another interesting sight is the old canal viaduct under a river bridge over the Genesee. As in Syracuse, the canal used to run directly though downtown Rochester until its renovation in 1918(?) At both towns, the Dinosaur Barbecue is to die for. Dennis Bruckel, born and raised in the area, and former Field Editor Waterway Guide. Cell phone 407 414 0531 e-mail: dbruckel@embarqmail.com Website: debruckel.com