I hate it when the weather doesn't look brilliant, there are times when it's hard to make the call. Yesterday we made the call to divert to Dover, which was the right decision at the time, but ironically it passed by quickly and turned out to be a lovely evening.
We had more or less made our minds up we would be staying in Dover for more than a night. However it did look as if there was a weather window and it was only a three hour sail so we decided to go for it. This was after a full English breakfast cooked by yours truly.
As always we had to ask permission to leave the marina and enter the harbour. Dover Harbour are brilliant with yachts, they are polite on the radio and always manage to get us through despite an endless stream of ferries, cruise ships and various other boats.
Loads of work is being done at Dover at the moment so we had to be escorted through the new cut. Once in the harbour it was quite rough, which did not bode well. We got out to sea and it wasn't pleasant, in fact the sail didn't go up.
It was lumpy and bumpy and the wind was more on the nose than it should have been. Plus there was more wind than there should have been, We were definitely in a force 6, the wind was 26 knots, the forecast was up to 20 knots.
Not long out of Dover we were passed by a Spitfire as it fly along the cliffs. John heard it before we saw it as the engine sound is unmistakable. It was good to see. No photo as it was far too bouncy. It, or a second one passed us once more.
Despite the rocking and rolling the leaping up and down it didn't take as long as we thought it would, just three and a quarter hours. it was a long three and a quarter hours. I felt as if someone was just throwing buckets of salt water over me. It was also hard to see the buoys as we approached Ramsgate
the sea was that rough. At this stage I need to say we must have our sea legs as despite an incredibly rough journey we had no seasickness tablets and the full English had remained in place.
Although not as busy as Dover, Ramsgate is quite a busy harbour and you need permission to enter. This was swiftly given and it's such a relief to be in the outer harbour. We then contacted the marina who basically gave us three pontoons and said choose a berth. It's great when that happens as you can get the one you are most comfortable getting into.
They say practise makes perfect and my throwing of the ropes to loop round the cleats has improved considerably, to such an extent that ive not jumped off the boat to moor up for the entire season.
Agin the wether gods decided to play with us and the weather decided to be glorious for a couple of days. We still didn't make the Ramsgate War Tunnels but did walk to Broadstairs. It was the Broadstairs folk festival and there were more Morris dancers than you could shake a stick at and there were a lot of sticks been shaken. Every pub had live music and was also full. It was a really great atmosphere.
Sailing info
As before but the toilets on the pontoons were now back in action.
Staff as friendly and helpful as always.
Distance logged. - 17.2 miles
Time - 3 1/2 hours
Monday 14 August 2017
Ramsgate or Dover
Today was a day of discussions, do we go or don't we. Do we go to Ramsgate or Dover? In the end we did set off, but missed the 7 am lock, due to our lengthy discussions so got the 7.30am lock instead. The decision had been made we'd go to Ramsgate so we're prepared for a long day.
Coming out of Eastbourne it was lobster pot city so we really needed to keep a sharp look out plus the fact I was worried about nets put out between pots. The last thing we needed was to be caught up in fishing gear. A friend got caught by nets a couple,of weeks ago.
Sadly there was not enough wind to sail, but as always the mainsail went up to steady the boat. We were making good time and it was turning into a nice day, neither of us were wearing coats.
Despite the lack of wind the tides were with us and we were averaging over 6 knots an hour. At these speeds we would definitely get to Ramsgate. There were no problems with the firing range, I radioed in and they were fine with out course, thanked us for our cooperation and wished us well.
Just off Dungerness we spotted two harbour porpoises, this is the first wild life we have really seen. Near enough to spot but too far away for a good photo.
We could see Dover coming up so knew once past here it was only three hours the tides were really with us by this stage and were now going at over 7 knots. Then the weather gods decided to kick in, big style, the sea suddenly became bumpy and the skies went black, really black. At this stage we were 1 1/2 miles off Dover and we decided that perhaps we ought to divert. We go the all clear from the port authority to head to the western entrance but now we were pushing the tide in a very bouncy sea. As always with the Gees when we want to come in other larger vessels either want to leave or enter, in this case it was a rather large dredger, there were also several other yachts who also suddenly thought Dover was a good idea. They unlike us were coming down rather than across so made better time. Eventually we got the green light so soon were safely in the harbour.
When going to pay I took the receipts from last time as we had had phone calls from accounts in Alderney saying we owed them £57, we didn't. Anyhow our account was clear so that was finally sorted out.
As quickly as the weather blew up it was calm again. Ironical, as we could have made Ramsgate, but we made a call and at the time it was a good call. I resigned myself to a few days in Dover.
sailing information.
THis time it was £28 per night, I asked if it had gone up? No , we were under charged the first time.
Lots more work has gone on in the harbour since we were last there. The pile driving didn't start till 8.30 am so we weren't disturbed by it.
Distance logged - 46.8miles
Time 8 hours. ( The last3.1 miles took 1 hour!)
Coming out of Eastbourne it was lobster pot city so we really needed to keep a sharp look out plus the fact I was worried about nets put out between pots. The last thing we needed was to be caught up in fishing gear. A friend got caught by nets a couple,of weeks ago.
Sadly there was not enough wind to sail, but as always the mainsail went up to steady the boat. We were making good time and it was turning into a nice day, neither of us were wearing coats.
Despite the lack of wind the tides were with us and we were averaging over 6 knots an hour. At these speeds we would definitely get to Ramsgate. There were no problems with the firing range, I radioed in and they were fine with out course, thanked us for our cooperation and wished us well.
Just off Dungerness we spotted two harbour porpoises, this is the first wild life we have really seen. Near enough to spot but too far away for a good photo.
We could see Dover coming up so knew once past here it was only three hours the tides were really with us by this stage and were now going at over 7 knots. Then the weather gods decided to kick in, big style, the sea suddenly became bumpy and the skies went black, really black. At this stage we were 1 1/2 miles off Dover and we decided that perhaps we ought to divert. We go the all clear from the port authority to head to the western entrance but now we were pushing the tide in a very bouncy sea. As always with the Gees when we want to come in other larger vessels either want to leave or enter, in this case it was a rather large dredger, there were also several other yachts who also suddenly thought Dover was a good idea. They unlike us were coming down rather than across so made better time. Eventually we got the green light so soon were safely in the harbour.
When going to pay I took the receipts from last time as we had had phone calls from accounts in Alderney saying we owed them £57, we didn't. Anyhow our account was clear so that was finally sorted out.
As quickly as the weather blew up it was calm again. Ironical, as we could have made Ramsgate, but we made a call and at the time it was a good call. I resigned myself to a few days in Dover.
sailing information.
THis time it was £28 per night, I asked if it had gone up? No , we were under charged the first time.
Lots more work has gone on in the harbour since we were last there. The pile driving didn't start till 8.30 am so we weren't disturbed by it.
Distance logged - 46.8miles
Time 8 hours. ( The last3.1 miles took 1 hour!)
Sunday 13 August 2017
Onwards to Eastbourne.
We knew it would be a quick journey to Eastbourne, about Three and a half hours. We didn't know what a strange journey it would be. Firstly the halliard got caught round the mast light as we were trying to put up the mainsail. It was very lumpy and rock and roll so there was no way we could retrieve the situation at sea, so no sail. Although we would have motor sailed that day the sail does stabilise the boat.
Also almost as soon as we had switched the radio on there was a mayday starting. We had this on the radio throughout the journey, it was unsure what had happened but it was thought two boats had collided during the night. One person had been found and three missing. Over the journey we heard another person has been found. Sadly we later found out on the news that this person was dead.
The whole scenario unfolding was amazing, so many people were involved in the search. We heard the search patterns change as more information was gained. They also asked other boats not involved to keep an eye out. One of the search boats had found an oil slick, then another boat some wreckage and other a fender. We then spotted a fender, we weren't able to retrieve it, but were able to radio in and report it with it's position. Speaking to a German boat at the marina, they were glad we'd radioed it in as they too had spotted it but were worried their English would not be up to it.
The whole experience just shows what a wonderful system we have with the coastguard, RNLI and various other folk like the fishermen and boats from the wind farm. Sadly we found out on the news later that although one man had been found clinging to a buoy by a fisherman, this raised the alarm, one body was recovered and the search for the two missing men was called off. As yet it is unknown what caused the boat to sink. Shows why you should always have life jackets on.
The journey put everything into perspective, however, as we were coming into Eastbourne a fisherman was dropping a net between two badly identifiable floats. I found out the next day that some friends had been caught by such a net earlier in the week and had to be brought back to Eastbourne by the RNLI. To add insult to injury the nets were by the safe water mark. Apparently the fishermen have been asked not to drop their nets there but they still are. We will be very vigilant on the way out.
This was only the second time we have seen wildlife apart from birds. We saw two porpoises on the way to Eastbourne. Always pleased to see them.
This was only the second time we have seen wildlife apart from birds. We saw two porpoises on the way to Eastbourne. Always pleased to see them.
Although we were up and raring to go this morning, the weather forecast was not suitable. However the annoying thing was the weather we had today did not resemble the forecast in any way so we could have gone. . We will try again tomorrow. I did the washing instead!
Sailing information.
Distance 21.1 miles
Time - 3 hours to the harbour but missed 11.30 lock so got on 12 noon lock.
Sailing information.
Distance 21.1 miles
Time - 3 hours to the harbour but missed 11.30 lock so got on 12 noon lock.
A few more days in Brighton.
After our journey from Gosport we had decided to have a rest day in Brighton. We went to see Dunkirk, I can't say it was a film I enjoyed but was pleased I'd seen it. This year we have had been to so many places that were impacted on by the war. Also at Dover we went to the war tunnels where Dunkirk was planned.
Unfortunately after our rest day the weather set in, one day we didn't leave the boat all day, but it has only been the third time this has happened so we can't complain. We did get out for a walk on the break water that night.
The next few days we didn't have rain, just very strong winds, so we were able to go for our walks. We walked to Rottingdean on the undercliffe path. It was amazing to watch all the waves breaking over the breakwater. There were also lots of surfers out.
At the marina waves were crashing over the breakwater, it just shows how fierce the storm was the break water is a two level one, the higher level can be seen from our boat. Sadly I couldn't get the pictures of the waves crashing over as you couldn't se them coming and had to just guess where they might be.
It might be heresy to say but we actually prefer the cliffs of Brighton to that of Dover, they are quite spectacular. I also realised that it's a good job I'm no longer at work as the ruck sack would have been full of bits of flint, which is plentiful amongst the chalk cliffs. In fact the layers are a super illustration of how they were laid down in prehistoric times.
Another walk was into Brighton, once there the lure of fish and chips was too much, so we ate on the sea front. On our walk we realised that the following day was the Pride parade, as we knew we would be still in Brighton we thought we would go.
More by good luck than good judgement we had a brilliant spot to watch the parade. It was as the floats left the sea front to turn as the floats went up to the town. There were one or two hairy moments as the lorries had to make a tight turn to the left in not a lot of space. We both felt it had been worth staying in Brighton to see Pride.
Sailing Info
Mainly as before, we had a berth on an inside hammerhead which was super.
I don't do laundry here as there is nowhere to sit and wait.
Gosport to Brighton 43.7 miles, time 8 hours and 5 minutes, sailed 6 hours!
No photos yet as the computer/internet wont cooperate.
Unfortunately after our rest day the weather set in, one day we didn't leave the boat all day, but it has only been the third time this has happened so we can't complain. We did get out for a walk on the break water that night.
The next few days we didn't have rain, just very strong winds, so we were able to go for our walks. We walked to Rottingdean on the undercliffe path. It was amazing to watch all the waves breaking over the breakwater. There were also lots of surfers out.
At the marina waves were crashing over the breakwater, it just shows how fierce the storm was the break water is a two level one, the higher level can be seen from our boat. Sadly I couldn't get the pictures of the waves crashing over as you couldn't se them coming and had to just guess where they might be.
It might be heresy to say but we actually prefer the cliffs of Brighton to that of Dover, they are quite spectacular. I also realised that it's a good job I'm no longer at work as the ruck sack would have been full of bits of flint, which is plentiful amongst the chalk cliffs. In fact the layers are a super illustration of how they were laid down in prehistoric times.
Another walk was into Brighton, once there the lure of fish and chips was too much, so we ate on the sea front. On our walk we realised that the following day was the Pride parade, as we knew we would be still in Brighton we thought we would go.
More by good luck than good judgement we had a brilliant spot to watch the parade. It was as the floats left the sea front to turn as the floats went up to the town. There were one or two hairy moments as the lorries had to make a tight turn to the left in not a lot of space. We both felt it had been worth staying in Brighton to see Pride.
Sailing Info
Mainly as before, we had a berth on an inside hammerhead which was super.
I don't do laundry here as there is nowhere to sit and wait.
Gosport to Brighton 43.7 miles, time 8 hours and 5 minutes, sailed 6 hours!
No photos yet as the computer/internet wont cooperate.
Tuesday 1 August 2017
Return to Brighton. 31st July 2017
A look at the weather forecast did involve a discussion, but we felt it would be okay. The first job was to get fuel, we are using more on this trip as we have done more motoring than sailing, The price of fuel here is virtually double that of Jersey,
Once off the fuel pontoon we were into a busy bit straight way. Gosport ferry, marine mooring boat specialist, Wight Link Ferries, Hoover craft and Brittany ferries. Plus your normal assortment of yachts, both sailing and motor. Obviously the trick is to avoid all of them, which we did, but for twenty minutes it was like you needed eyes in the back of your head.
As soon as we had negotiated all the traffic and had passed the shipping lanes for Southampton we went head to wind to put the sails up. Normally I steer for this bit and John goes up front but it was a bit bumpy and I was worried about keeping the boat head to wind so I elected to be at the front. Sails up and engine off, however it soon became evident that we would need a reef in. The first reef was not sitting well at all, so we went for the second reef which was fine. Such was the extent of the wind we also had to reef the genny, which made life a lot more comfortable. We were shooting along.
It was nice to see the coastline this time as last time this part of the journey was in thick fog. I had marked every buoy we would pass as a way point as we had to we very precise passing Selsely Bill. One the tide had to be in the right direction so we couldn't get there before 10.30 and two you had to pass between two buoys to make sure we were in the Looe channel. If we didn't take this route we would of had to go much further out to see and added miles to the journey. There were two yachts in front of us heading in the same direction so that boded well.
It was not the easiest sailing as the wind was coming from the southwest and was virtually behind us, things were a bit frisky. The skipper was doing a marvellous job despite some mutterings. We passed through the buoys at 11am exactly so I was pleased with the timings, it was now a straight, if longish run to Brighton. We were making good time and for four hours travelled over 6 knots in each hour, however it was best not to look back as there were following seas with big swells.
The autopilot was on for about an hour but then John helmed for the rest of the way, which made the journey more comfortable, but need a lot of concentration from him. I'm not sure what the Navy would had said about John's treatment of the ensign, but it was slapping him in the face, so needs must.
We sailed to within two miles of Brighton and decided to take the sails in, it was a bit hairy as the seas were very bumpy. I didn't need the advice from the skipper of hold on tight - I was. We decided that we would wait until we were actually in the harbour before putting out fenders and lines. I rang for instructions, it was quite comical as during his conversation with me the berthing master suddenly said, someone has just gone in your space, ring me back in five minutes while I go and sort them out. Once I got back to him all was sorted and we had a very nice inside hammerhead berth.
I was pleased to see the boiler was fixed as when Seaduction was here a few weeks ago they couldn't shower on this side but had a long walk to the East facilities.
Sailing information
Marina as before
Dredging operations are continuing.
Distance 43.7 miles
Time 7 1/2 hours (6 1/2 sailing!)
Once off the fuel pontoon we were into a busy bit straight way. Gosport ferry, marine mooring boat specialist, Wight Link Ferries, Hoover craft and Brittany ferries. Plus your normal assortment of yachts, both sailing and motor. Obviously the trick is to avoid all of them, which we did, but for twenty minutes it was like you needed eyes in the back of your head.
It was nice to see the coastline this time as last time this part of the journey was in thick fog. I had marked every buoy we would pass as a way point as we had to we very precise passing Selsely Bill. One the tide had to be in the right direction so we couldn't get there before 10.30 and two you had to pass between two buoys to make sure we were in the Looe channel. If we didn't take this route we would of had to go much further out to see and added miles to the journey. There were two yachts in front of us heading in the same direction so that boded well.
It was not the easiest sailing as the wind was coming from the southwest and was virtually behind us, things were a bit frisky. The skipper was doing a marvellous job despite some mutterings. We passed through the buoys at 11am exactly so I was pleased with the timings, it was now a straight, if longish run to Brighton. We were making good time and for four hours travelled over 6 knots in each hour, however it was best not to look back as there were following seas with big swells.
The autopilot was on for about an hour but then John helmed for the rest of the way, which made the journey more comfortable, but need a lot of concentration from him. I'm not sure what the Navy would had said about John's treatment of the ensign, but it was slapping him in the face, so needs must.
We sailed to within two miles of Brighton and decided to take the sails in, it was a bit hairy as the seas were very bumpy. I didn't need the advice from the skipper of hold on tight - I was. We decided that we would wait until we were actually in the harbour before putting out fenders and lines. I rang for instructions, it was quite comical as during his conversation with me the berthing master suddenly said, someone has just gone in your space, ring me back in five minutes while I go and sort them out. Once I got back to him all was sorted and we had a very nice inside hammerhead berth.
I was pleased to see the boiler was fixed as when Seaduction was here a few weeks ago they couldn't shower on this side but had a long walk to the East facilities.
Sailing information
Marina as before
Dredging operations are continuing.
Distance 43.7 miles
Time 7 1/2 hours (6 1/2 sailing!)
Gosport 29th July 2017
The weather forecasts were spot on. There was a gale overnight and then in the morning the wind switched off. Absolutely amazing. We wanted to leave at 9.30 am so informed our Dutch neighbours who were rafter on to us. They moved forward and another neighbour helped with our ropes as John sprung off. This meant John could then reverse out. The wind was none existent so no sails at all, but the tide was with us so we were going along at 7 knots at less than 2000 revs.
We could spot Cowes long before we got there as it is Cowes week and the sea was full of sails. As we got nearer it could only be described as organised chaos. There were obviously several races going on at once. We had to be very careful as we were motoring and had to give way to everyone and they were coming from every direction.
As soon as we passed Cowes calm was restored. We had spotted a large warship anchored nearer Portsmouth, John checked it on the AIS and it was U.S.S.GEORGE BUSH. As we got near it was looking very impressive, all the aircraft were on deck.
We were in the marina by 12.30 pm. Three hours door to door. Not bad for 19 miles. No sooner had we finished mooring up when the heavens opened again and it rained for the rest of the day. It had stopped by 8 pm so we went to Morrisons. We know how to spend our Saturday nights!
Sunday morning was bright and sunny the choice between a walk and doing the laundry, the walk won as the last few days we haven't done much. So we had a six mile walk down the coast looking at where we'd been yesterday.
They were playing nice with the lifeboat and we watched it being launched with a tractor. Reminded me of Filey lifeboat.
When we returned John commented that he was sure that he'd seen the boat on the berth opposite before. Yes he had, it is usually opposite us at Ipswich!
The weather is looking okay for tomorrow so we've booked into Brighton. Checked the tides, done the passage planning. We need to get round Selsey Bill, it will be great to see everything as when we came here some weeks ago it was thick fog.
Sailing information
Marina as previous
We found the Morrisons, a bit up the road from Aldi.
Distance 17 miles.
Time 3 hours 2 minutes!
We could spot Cowes long before we got there as it is Cowes week and the sea was full of sails. As we got nearer it could only be described as organised chaos. There were obviously several races going on at once. We had to be very careful as we were motoring and had to give way to everyone and they were coming from every direction.
As soon as we passed Cowes calm was restored. We had spotted a large warship anchored nearer Portsmouth, John checked it on the AIS and it was U.S.S.GEORGE BUSH. As we got near it was looking very impressive, all the aircraft were on deck.
We were in the marina by 12.30 pm. Three hours door to door. Not bad for 19 miles. No sooner had we finished mooring up when the heavens opened again and it rained for the rest of the day. It had stopped by 8 pm so we went to Morrisons. We know how to spend our Saturday nights!
Sunday morning was bright and sunny the choice between a walk and doing the laundry, the walk won as the last few days we haven't done much. So we had a six mile walk down the coast looking at where we'd been yesterday.
They were playing nice with the lifeboat and we watched it being launched with a tractor. Reminded me of Filey lifeboat.
When we returned John commented that he was sure that he'd seen the boat on the berth opposite before. Yes he had, it is usually opposite us at Ipswich!
The weather is looking okay for tomorrow so we've booked into Brighton. Checked the tides, done the passage planning. We need to get round Selsey Bill, it will be great to see everything as when we came here some weeks ago it was thick fog.
Sailing information
Marina as previous
We found the Morrisons, a bit up the road from Aldi.
Distance 17 miles.
Time 3 hours 2 minutes!
Saturday 29 July 2017
Onwards to the Isle of Wight 25th July 2017
Having being in Weymouth for 12 days we still weren't sure if we would be leaving on the 27th July or not. The 26th July had given us three different forecasts in the same day. We planned to leave when the bridge opened at 12 noon, so that would give us plenty of time to look and look again at the weather forecast.
Carole and Chris returned from their week at home and it was good to see them again, we nipped around to Seaduction for me to look at a navigational programme on Chris's laptop. The computer agreed with me and also that it would be a long journey. The alternative was to leave at 6 am the following morning but that would have meant leaving the marina that night on the last bridge. As the weather was so changeable be decided to stay in the marina in case we couldn't leave.
Chris had already decided that if we stayed we would have our crab supper after all - so we were in a win win situation.
Luckily the weather looked fine the next day so we bid Carole and Chris farewell and set off. Chris was hopeful we would have a good sail.
.
Lots of boats were milling around for the noon bridge.
As we came out of Weymouth we set the sails straight away and quickly flew across the bay, reaching 7 knots, at this stage I was worried that this might muck up our passage plan and that we would reach the needles too early - oh foolish woman!
Quite a lot of interesting things on the radio. Although we have a hand help radio on deck, if the caller is some way away I need to go down below to the main radio. So I was up and down with my notepad as there lots of information to note. First of all was Warship Sutherland, who announced they would be firing live missals therefore it was of vital importance that I knew exactly where they were. Luckily Sutherland was on the other side of Portland Bill, so that meant it was no where near us.One less thing to worry about.
Then there was a pan pan from a motor yacht with engine failure, Coastguard were trying to arrange a tow so I took down the position of the ship. In the middle of all this a rather irate fishing boat came on to yell at another boat, whether it was a sailing or motor yacht I do not know, but his language was rather fruity as he was furious that the other boat was not keeping a good watch and there had nearly been a collision. So the radio was being interspersed with the coastguard and the fisher man.
We heard later that a boat had taken the broken down boat in tow and the pan pan was cancelled.
A bit later into the journey the missal was fired. Although it was no where near us, it was exceedingly loud with a good boom coming to us.
As soon as we started going along the coast then the wind was behind us and the tide changed. We knew that we would be pushing the tide for a large part of the journey as we wanted to hit the needles at exactly the right time. But there is pushing the tide and pushing the tide. At one stage we were only making 1 knot. The original plan had been to split this journey in two and stop off either in Studland Bay or Poole Harbour. That meant we would have the correct tide with us for each leg. However as the weather gods are definitely conspiring against us we knew we couldn't anchor in Studland Bay and I was worried about being weather bound in Poole Harbour as it coasts £48 a night. That was more than my thrifty nature would allow. So we were doing the long leg.
As the wind was behind us we had quite large seas. John spent most of the time on the helm as I had inputted a number wrongly into the nav system and we were then doing it the old fashion way with the chart on my knee. Not that the auto pilot would have been able to cope with the seas.
It just seemed a long time to get anywhere, but luckily the tide began to change when it should and our speed increased considerably. We could see the Isle of Wight in the distance for quite a way before reaching the Fairway Buoy. By this stage the tide was really running and we knew we were in the Needles Channel. Sadly none of the photos came out as the journey was so bouncy.
I rang Yarmouth Harbour to be greeted with the news that it was full but we could go on one of the outer mooring buoys. We went down the Hurst Channel at ten knots and quickly arrived at Yarmouth, by this time it was 10 pm and dark. However much to our surprise and delight we managed to pick up a suitable buoy at first go, our friends Beth, Bob and Julia would be surprise after my attempts on the River Orwell earlier this year.
Once moored up a quick cupper and sandwich and then to bed. John was off like a light but I couldn't sleep as the waves slapping against the boat was incessant and loud. The more I tried to sleep the more I couldn't, I went on deck twice to check everything was okay, which it was. Rather than disturb John I ended up sleeping in the cockpit, which was rather nice. I was very snug with the spare duvet and the stars were so clear with the lack of light pollution. I wish I'd though of this earlier as I dropped off very quickly. I was woken at 6 m by the clanging of the halliard but as I was on deck I didn't have far to move with the winch. I saw some yachts leave the harbour so was pleased about that.
We had discussed moving that morning onto Gosport but a look at the met office forecast showed this idea to be a none starter
At 7 am I radioed the berth master who said there was a place for us as some boats had left, so we quickly dropped the mooring lines and went in. We were in full wet weather gear as the heavens had decided to open. In the space of 15 minutes we were absolutely soaked but safely moored up in Yarmouth.
The rain continued nearly all day, you got wetter coming back from the showers than you had been in the shower! Our attempt at an afternoon walk was also cut short by the rain but by the time we had had our evening meal it was nice enough for a stroll.
Thursday morning was another long look at the weather, we decided that we will be here till Saturday morning then move on to Gosport. The tides won't we ready for us to move on until Monday, then we will make our way back along the south coast to Ipswich.
Carole and Chris returned from their week at home and it was good to see them again, we nipped around to Seaduction for me to look at a navigational programme on Chris's laptop. The computer agreed with me and also that it would be a long journey. The alternative was to leave at 6 am the following morning but that would have meant leaving the marina that night on the last bridge. As the weather was so changeable be decided to stay in the marina in case we couldn't leave.
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| Everything ready for the off. |
Chris had already decided that if we stayed we would have our crab supper after all - so we were in a win win situation.
Luckily the weather looked fine the next day so we bid Carole and Chris farewell and set off. Chris was hopeful we would have a good sail.
.
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Carole and Chris of Seaduction.
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As we came out of Weymouth we set the sails straight away and quickly flew across the bay, reaching 7 knots, at this stage I was worried that this might muck up our passage plan and that we would reach the needles too early - oh foolish woman!
Quite a lot of interesting things on the radio. Although we have a hand help radio on deck, if the caller is some way away I need to go down below to the main radio. So I was up and down with my notepad as there lots of information to note. First of all was Warship Sutherland, who announced they would be firing live missals therefore it was of vital importance that I knew exactly where they were. Luckily Sutherland was on the other side of Portland Bill, so that meant it was no where near us.One less thing to worry about.
Then there was a pan pan from a motor yacht with engine failure, Coastguard were trying to arrange a tow so I took down the position of the ship. In the middle of all this a rather irate fishing boat came on to yell at another boat, whether it was a sailing or motor yacht I do not know, but his language was rather fruity as he was furious that the other boat was not keeping a good watch and there had nearly been a collision. So the radio was being interspersed with the coastguard and the fisher man.
We heard later that a boat had taken the broken down boat in tow and the pan pan was cancelled.
A bit later into the journey the missal was fired. Although it was no where near us, it was exceedingly loud with a good boom coming to us.
As soon as we started going along the coast then the wind was behind us and the tide changed. We knew that we would be pushing the tide for a large part of the journey as we wanted to hit the needles at exactly the right time. But there is pushing the tide and pushing the tide. At one stage we were only making 1 knot. The original plan had been to split this journey in two and stop off either in Studland Bay or Poole Harbour. That meant we would have the correct tide with us for each leg. However as the weather gods are definitely conspiring against us we knew we couldn't anchor in Studland Bay and I was worried about being weather bound in Poole Harbour as it coasts £48 a night. That was more than my thrifty nature would allow. So we were doing the long leg.
As the wind was behind us we had quite large seas. John spent most of the time on the helm as I had inputted a number wrongly into the nav system and we were then doing it the old fashion way with the chart on my knee. Not that the auto pilot would have been able to cope with the seas.
It just seemed a long time to get anywhere, but luckily the tide began to change when it should and our speed increased considerably. We could see the Isle of Wight in the distance for quite a way before reaching the Fairway Buoy. By this stage the tide was really running and we knew we were in the Needles Channel. Sadly none of the photos came out as the journey was so bouncy.
I rang Yarmouth Harbour to be greeted with the news that it was full but we could go on one of the outer mooring buoys. We went down the Hurst Channel at ten knots and quickly arrived at Yarmouth, by this time it was 10 pm and dark. However much to our surprise and delight we managed to pick up a suitable buoy at first go, our friends Beth, Bob and Julia would be surprise after my attempts on the River Orwell earlier this year.
Once moored up a quick cupper and sandwich and then to bed. John was off like a light but I couldn't sleep as the waves slapping against the boat was incessant and loud. The more I tried to sleep the more I couldn't, I went on deck twice to check everything was okay, which it was. Rather than disturb John I ended up sleeping in the cockpit, which was rather nice. I was very snug with the spare duvet and the stars were so clear with the lack of light pollution. I wish I'd though of this earlier as I dropped off very quickly. I was woken at 6 m by the clanging of the halliard but as I was on deck I didn't have far to move with the winch. I saw some yachts leave the harbour so was pleased about that.
We had discussed moving that morning onto Gosport but a look at the met office forecast showed this idea to be a none starter
At 7 am I radioed the berth master who said there was a place for us as some boats had left, so we quickly dropped the mooring lines and went in. We were in full wet weather gear as the heavens had decided to open. In the space of 15 minutes we were absolutely soaked but safely moored up in Yarmouth.
The rain continued nearly all day, you got wetter coming back from the showers than you had been in the shower! Our attempt at an afternoon walk was also cut short by the rain but by the time we had had our evening meal it was nice enough for a stroll.
Thursday morning was another long look at the weather, we decided that we will be here till Saturday morning then move on to Gosport. The tides won't we ready for us to move on until Monday, then we will make our way back along the south coast to Ipswich.
A week or more in Weymouth.
It was great to have friends Chris and Carole from Seaduction next door. We quickly arranged to go for a Chinese meal on the Friday night. We had a very pleasant time and sat over the meal till late and didn't get back to our boats until nearly midnight.
We also made arrangements to have a crab supper on Sunday night, when Chris would teach me how to dress a crab. Sadly no crabs had come in when Chris went to buy them. So the crab supper was off. John and I thought we would go over to Portland Bill and explore. However by the time we'd done an ASDA shop and sorted round, we felt it was too hot and too late to go. We made the decision to go on Monday instead.
Monday morning was lovely, so we bid goodbye to Chris and Carole who were heading home for a week. Believe it or not we caught the ferry to Portland Bill and began our walk. (You would have thought we had enough of boats!) The first bit is very STEEP to say the least but once at the top the views were amazing and we had a lovely walk.
Part of the walk went through the old quarry where there were several carvings made by the quarrymen.
I must admit by the time we got to the lighthouse at the end we were on the tired side but were quickly revived by bitter shandy and a meal. In order to catch a bus back we had to walk to the next village. Walking on roads is not is much fun. The bus was packed as the local school had turned out and had obviously got on the stop before us. A couple of the young people did offer us seats - good manners rule okay. However the many of the year 9 parents won't be getting their letters inviting them to the parent's meeting in September! As the floor was adorned with said letter.
We had a super day but in hindsight we might have been wiser to travel that Monday as the weather afterwards went down hill wind wise. The map of Britain for inshore waters was totally covered in red and we don't travel on red days. Apart from a mega thunderstorm one night it's been reasonable during the day. Anyhow we made the most of Weymouth and the local bus service and we have been out and about exploring and walking.
Now speaking to other sailing couples, there comes a time in every voyage where the wife cuts her husband's hair. Mr Gee won't let me near him with a pair of scissors. I really don't know why. Anyhow, because we were feeling like shaggy dogs we took the plunge and found a local unisex hair dresser and went and had our hair cut. We both feel better for it.
The weather as I mentioned wasn't suitable for sailing neither was it suitable for much sightseeing. Friday was horrendous both wind wise and rain wise. We'd hoped that Saturday would be bit better on the wind front even if still showers through out the day, but no joy for sailing.
As it was obvious we were staying put for a few days, we decided to get up early Sunday morning and get the bus to Lulworth Cove and then walk to Durdle Door.
We enjoyed watching these people climb up and then jump off. It looked like fun.
As we have been so long in Weymouth we are going to cut out Poole on the way back and head straight to the Isle of Wight. We might try Cowes rather than Yarmouth this time.
We also made arrangements to have a crab supper on Sunday night, when Chris would teach me how to dress a crab. Sadly no crabs had come in when Chris went to buy them. So the crab supper was off. John and I thought we would go over to Portland Bill and explore. However by the time we'd done an ASDA shop and sorted round, we felt it was too hot and too late to go. We made the decision to go on Monday instead.
Monday morning was lovely, so we bid goodbye to Chris and Carole who were heading home for a week. Believe it or not we caught the ferry to Portland Bill and began our walk. (You would have thought we had enough of boats!) The first bit is very STEEP to say the least but once at the top the views were amazing and we had a lovely walk.
Part of the walk went through the old quarry where there were several carvings made by the quarrymen.
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| Captain found a chair, which he said was surprisingly comfy. |
I must admit by the time we got to the lighthouse at the end we were on the tired side but were quickly revived by bitter shandy and a meal. In order to catch a bus back we had to walk to the next village. Walking on roads is not is much fun. The bus was packed as the local school had turned out and had obviously got on the stop before us. A couple of the young people did offer us seats - good manners rule okay. However the many of the year 9 parents won't be getting their letters inviting them to the parent's meeting in September! As the floor was adorned with said letter.
We had a super day but in hindsight we might have been wiser to travel that Monday as the weather afterwards went down hill wind wise. The map of Britain for inshore waters was totally covered in red and we don't travel on red days. Apart from a mega thunderstorm one night it's been reasonable during the day. Anyhow we made the most of Weymouth and the local bus service and we have been out and about exploring and walking.
Now speaking to other sailing couples, there comes a time in every voyage where the wife cuts her husband's hair. Mr Gee won't let me near him with a pair of scissors. I really don't know why. Anyhow, because we were feeling like shaggy dogs we took the plunge and found a local unisex hair dresser and went and had our hair cut. We both feel better for it.
The weather as I mentioned wasn't suitable for sailing neither was it suitable for much sightseeing. Friday was horrendous both wind wise and rain wise. We'd hoped that Saturday would be bit better on the wind front even if still showers through out the day, but no joy for sailing.
As it was obvious we were staying put for a few days, we decided to get up early Sunday morning and get the bus to Lulworth Cove and then walk to Durdle Door.
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| Lulworth Cove |
We enjoyed watching these people climb up and then jump off. It looked like fun.
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| Why do we always choose steep paths? |
 |
| Looking back at Lulworth Cove from the top of the hill. |
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| On the way to Durdle Door |
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| Durdle Door. |
As we have been so long in Weymouth we are going to cut out Poole on the way back and head straight to the Isle of Wight. We might try Cowes rather than Yarmouth this time.
Sunday 16 July 2017
Weymouth 14th July 2017
Weymouth mark two. This morning we had a 0730 set off, slightly apprehensive we set off. The main sail went up in the harbour and the genoa (genny) followed as soon we were out. We were sailing straight away but the wind was very gusty and I'm afraid I sounded like someone with a severe case of Tourette's. However once we'd reefed the genny things were a lot calmer. Amazingly the wind was in the correct direction and we could actually sail with the autopilot on.
As we would be going over a long period of time and over two tides I had done my work with tidal vectors, this meant that the course we were steering wasn't actually towards our first waypoint. You need to believe in your navigation as the tide takes you one way and then the other, if you have got the heading right you end up exactly where you want to be.
The sailing only lasted for 2 1/2 hours and sadly we had to pull in the genny and start the engine. This was about the time we were meeting all the ships coming out of the shipping lane. It was very busy and at times it is hard to judge distances. Towards the end of the journey we had to slow down for one ship which meant for the next one not only did we slow down but also had to change course. But our motto has always been better safe than sorry. Apart from the commercial traffic we only saw one other yacht in the distance throughout the crossing.
The Bill of Portland was slowly coming into view, it is nice when you know we were arriving at the right place. I heard our name on the radio very faintly, John thought I was hearing things as we were totally by ourselves in the sea and not another vessel in sight. I went onto the radio and found it was our friends from Chris and Carole hailing us. They were passing St Albans Head and also heading for Weymouth.
As we made our way towards our waypoint we realised we knew that we would not make the 1800 hr bridge. We did try - as we passed the pier head bang on 1800, I radioed harbour control to see if wed missed it. At this stage we hadn't as the bridge was just being raised and there were boats to come out and boats to come in. We were informed if we were in sight of the bridge and it was still up they would hold it for us. A load of sailing dinghies came out and we had to avoid them so we didn't make the bridge. However we had the choice of the waiting pontoon and were rather pleased with our entrance. It was one of those moorings we were pleased with. Especially as we would have had a huge audience if we'd messed it up. Chris had already told us that if we were on the waiting pontoon just smell Bennetts' fish and chips. John was dispatched up the wall and came back with sausage and chips as we couldn't have fish and chips two nights running. It went down very well with a glass of shandy.
First impressions of Weymouth are very good. These photos are ones I took with my phone as we waited for the bridge.
The time passed very quickly and Chris rang us to say he'd rearranged the berthing arrangements and we were now next to them. It was great to have Carole and Chris on the pontoon waiting to catch our ropes.
Sailing information.
57.6 miles - 10 hours 45 minutes
You get stamps at this marina which is part of a chain, so its pay for 6 nights and 7 nights free. Just over £30 per night.
Brilliant showers. You have a little room with a shower, sink and toilet.
Laundry - £2 a wash. How cheap is that! £1 for 20 minutes in the drier.
Marina staff really friendly and helpful.
Best wifi yet.
As we would be going over a long period of time and over two tides I had done my work with tidal vectors, this meant that the course we were steering wasn't actually towards our first waypoint. You need to believe in your navigation as the tide takes you one way and then the other, if you have got the heading right you end up exactly where you want to be.
The sailing only lasted for 2 1/2 hours and sadly we had to pull in the genny and start the engine. This was about the time we were meeting all the ships coming out of the shipping lane. It was very busy and at times it is hard to judge distances. Towards the end of the journey we had to slow down for one ship which meant for the next one not only did we slow down but also had to change course. But our motto has always been better safe than sorry. Apart from the commercial traffic we only saw one other yacht in the distance throughout the crossing.
The Bill of Portland was slowly coming into view, it is nice when you know we were arriving at the right place. I heard our name on the radio very faintly, John thought I was hearing things as we were totally by ourselves in the sea and not another vessel in sight. I went onto the radio and found it was our friends from Chris and Carole hailing us. They were passing St Albans Head and also heading for Weymouth.
As we made our way towards our waypoint we realised we knew that we would not make the 1800 hr bridge. We did try - as we passed the pier head bang on 1800, I radioed harbour control to see if wed missed it. At this stage we hadn't as the bridge was just being raised and there were boats to come out and boats to come in. We were informed if we were in sight of the bridge and it was still up they would hold it for us. A load of sailing dinghies came out and we had to avoid them so we didn't make the bridge. However we had the choice of the waiting pontoon and were rather pleased with our entrance. It was one of those moorings we were pleased with. Especially as we would have had a huge audience if we'd messed it up. Chris had already told us that if we were on the waiting pontoon just smell Bennetts' fish and chips. John was dispatched up the wall and came back with sausage and chips as we couldn't have fish and chips two nights running. It went down very well with a glass of shandy.
First impressions of Weymouth are very good. These photos are ones I took with my phone as we waited for the bridge.
The time passed very quickly and Chris rang us to say he'd rearranged the berthing arrangements and we were now next to them. It was great to have Carole and Chris on the pontoon waiting to catch our ropes.
Sailing information.
57.6 miles - 10 hours 45 minutes
You get stamps at this marina which is part of a chain, so its pay for 6 nights and 7 nights free. Just over £30 per night.
Brilliant showers. You have a little room with a shower, sink and toilet.
Laundry - £2 a wash. How cheap is that! £1 for 20 minutes in the drier.
Marina staff really friendly and helpful.
Best wifi yet.
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