April Midweek 6 boats & 12 crew
Monday dawned bright and clear for the four boats remaining in Cowes after the Shepards Wharf rally. Seven boats were due to go to Bembridge but there was concern that the weather forecast for leaving Bembridge harbour on the Thursday was not looking good. Wave heights of 1m over the bar combined with a high tide of 2.2m presented a risk of grounding. A pontoon pow-wow was held and the decision was taken to abort the Bembridge Rally.
Alternative locations were discussed and, after phone calls to other registered members, it was agreed to move the rally to Yarmouth. In all, there were 6 boats who could make it and all were accommodated together on P pontoon. This grouping enabled socially distanced drinks on the pontoon (in groups of 6 max) without inconveniencing other boaters.
Tuesday was a free day for members to amuse themselves. Activities included checking out the local shopping and eating options, a visit to the Red Lion and a walk to Victoria Fort overlooking the Needles channel and Hurst Castle. The slightly more active members enjoyed a cycle ride along the Yar and across the downs in the sunny weather.
On Wednesday teams embarked in groups of 6 on a circular walk along the Yar to the Red Lion and back. Plenty of wildlife was observed including Godwits, Mallards, ducklings and Swans, and the mystery of West Wight plaque on the Church wall was also investigated.
The Bugle courtyard provided sunshine and shelter from the growing cool North Easterly so it was booked for lunch as it was really too cold to eat out in the evening. Lunch on tables for 4 and 6 was much enjoyed, along with much missed social contact. As the wind continued to grow, we patted ourselves on the back about our decision to change location. Evening drinks and individual arrangements for dinner, allowed us all to catch up with each other and share our experiences of the first midweek rally.
Thanks to Gîte, Andiamo, Valiant, Living the dream, Riptide and Saskia for the flexibility and good company.
Steve Rawle
Have fun and stay safe
Each skipper is responsible for the safety of their own boat and crew