the Ten Tom are small by comparison. Their pilots are not as well trained  though some are very helpful and friendly even though many speak 'Cajun' and have nicknames for river bends not on charts if you're trying to figure where the are! The lock tenders are well trained to be polite and helpful unlike some on the Tennessee R. who sometimes have an attitude to be polite about it! The locks themselves are even easy to navigate! Even the 80 foot rise one! They all have the same floating bollards. Once we decided on our preferred side we stuck to that side for tying up so the fenders and lines were set and ready. More often than not we had a lock to ourselves. We aimed for a bollard midway into the lock so we got the least rush of water. For physical reasons, Gordon usually handled the helm and I the lines and communicating with the lock master . I always wore a handheld around my neck, a good sharp knife to cut a line (never had to) and the boat hook right there if needed.always be polite to the tenders with please and thank yous  and you'll be treated well! They do pass the word along to the next lock! When you get to Boca Grand enjoy a meal or 3 at The Pink and think of me!  Marge Griffith Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android