Bembridge Pirates’ Convention
Eight boats enjoyed the weekend: Legato, Valkyrie, Teau in the Water, Gîte, Mouse too, Bathia, Up To Speed, and of course Astrid, hosted by Cap'n (when she lets him!) Derek and First Mate Julie. Amongst us there were twenty pirates, two cabin boys and a Westie sea dog, and everyone got in to the spirit of the occasion. 
There were so many great costumes it was impossible to choose, so the prize for best-dressed pirate went to the little sea dog (who bribed the judge with Bonios without weevils). It was actually quite worrying just how authentic some of the Pirates looked!
After a long, long voyage from overseas (Port Solent), all arrived safely in Bembridge Pirates’ lair before lunch. The weather gods were kind to us yet again and Bembridge, as usual, were well organised, though Astrid had to stand off for an hour due to tardy departees who left the island in haste after she gave them a broadside.
With Astrid dressed in Pirate Flag and much bunting, rum punch, salty nibbles and ship’s biscuits were served to the sound of sea shanties on her poop deck at Eight Bells of the First Dog Watch (1800) with much Ho! Ho! Ho-ing going on. All ships’ crews attended. Gunfire was heard and sword fights abounded though, happily, no loss of life was reported.
At Two Bells of the Second Dog Watch (1900) shore leave was announced and all pirates and wenches departed for the barbecue and marquee on the quayside accompanied by more rum punch, sea shanties and sword fights. Everyone brought their own dinner along with sharing plates of salads and desserts for the table and a Royal Feast was enjoyed by all.
The evening was still and bright, the atmosphere was jolly and everyone enjoyed the view and the beautiful sunset. No better place in the world to be! As dusk set in, pirates and crew gradually returned to their own boats for nightcaps (better than grog)! 
On Sunday morning from Four Bells of the Forenoon Watch (1000) the pirate boats started to depart Bembridge for home. The weather again was beautiful although, after a short sail, the wind did drop for us rag-and-stick merchants who were trying to sail back to Port Solent.
A good time was had by all - and we now have our thinking caps on as to how we can better this next year. Watch this space...