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Cruise Report
Cornish Crabber Club - Solent Rally 2016
Friday morning saw us depart for the short crossing to Southampton Water and our destination of Universal Marina on the Hamble, kindly organised by Graham and Pat Woodward whose home port is Universal. Conditions had mellowed considerably now that we were back in the Solent. The slot in the marina given to us by the staff made for some interesting berthing manoeuvres - we all like a bit of a challenge! An excellent supper was arranged by Graham at the marina based restraurant.
On Saturday we set sail for Bembridge and I think it true to say this day offered the best day’s actual sailing in the whole week. The quietness of boats under sail without the melodic diesel engines running alongside was a real pleasure. Bembridge too is always a challenging place to berth after navigating the very tight channel. Bembridge look after us well. Their very attentive staff welcomed each boat on arrival and guided each to their respective berths. All of us were tightly berthed in a very crowded harbour. Our arrival coincided with a local Jazz Festival.
On Saturday we set sail for Bembridge and I think it true to say this day offered the best day’s actual sailing in the whole week. The quietness of boats under sail without the melodic diesel engines running alongside was a real pleasure. Bembridge too is always a challenging place to berth after navigating the very tight channel. Bembridge look after us well. Their very attentive staff welcomed each boat on arrival and guided each to their respective berths. All of us were tightly berthed in a very crowded harbour. Our arrival coincided with a local Jazz Festival.
Our last supper was held at the Brading Haven Yacht Club who pulled out the stops to make us welcome, and gave us a sumptuous supper. It was only embarrassing at the end of the evening when “yours truly” failed to pay the bill! After a very apologetic phone call, and all the usual excuses were made, an understanding was reached. They had a cheque by first class mail as soon as I returned home!
Another rally was over. Home Ports were the order of the day on Sunday.
To summarise the week - Great Company - Great Boats - Pretty average weather - A lot of diesel consumed - Not enough good sailing. Although as someone said to me a couple of days ago - looking back on our week the weather wasn’t that bad! Summer 2016 has not yet covered its face with glory!
As to 2017 - I would like to organise another event and hope to have a similar entry or maybe a few more. Look out for early notices in the autumn,
Finally many thanks to all those who took part and for your assistance in making the event the success that it was.. Thanks too to Peter Thomas and Crabbers for supporting our event, and the other Committee members who help in making this event what it is.
Julian Biggs
July 17th 2016
Another rally was over. Home Ports were the order of the day on Sunday.
To summarise the week - Great Company - Great Boats - Pretty average weather - A lot of diesel consumed - Not enough good sailing. Although as someone said to me a couple of days ago - looking back on our week the weather wasn’t that bad! Summer 2016 has not yet covered its face with glory!
As to 2017 - I would like to organise another event and hope to have a similar entry or maybe a few more. Look out for early notices in the autumn,
Finally many thanks to all those who took part and for your assistance in making the event the success that it was.. Thanks too to Peter Thomas and Crabbers for supporting our event, and the other Committee members who help in making this event what it is.
Julian Biggs
July 17th 2016
