What a great way to spend the hottest weekend of the summer. 11 boats made the trip up the Beaulieu River to Bucklers Hard. As usual the service given by the berthing manger and his crew was excellent. With boats arriving on both Friday and Saturday our rally was given one side of the visitors’ pontoon. Rafting on PSYC members we were only rafting one out allowing easy access for all.
Bucklers Hard have been looking at ways to support visiting rallies and boaters, they have installed multiple BBQ’s and a Marquees that can be booked in advance. They have also franchised a mobile bar and food vans to be onsite Thursday through Saturday. So, Friday saw members up in the roped off seating area, taking advantage of the bar and the “Chilli” van, serving beef and a vegan offering. Overlooking the river with its fantastic vista the warm night was a welcome way to meet and catch up with old friends.
Saturday saw member taking various forms of transport for a trip up the river, we had dinghies with torquedo outboards, blow up paddle boards, blow up kayaks and of course those who chose to walk up to the Beaulieu village. Good fun was had by all. Some members spent a pleasant hour touring the Bucklers Hard Museum, taking a look into the boat building past of the river. Learning how hard life was in those days and how it took years to make a boat hull only for it to be towed by rowboat back to Portsmouth for finishing. The trip we do in 90 minutes taking the rowers 5-6 days.
Saturday evening the club had hired the marquees and 2 BBQs, so crews brought their food and drink up again to the roped off area and serve self-prepared meals. Some members taking advantage to the excellent offering from the fresh seafood van. It was service anything from fish to lobsters. Again, lots a chatter and laughter.
Sunday morning, we had the usual stream of boats leaving for home some leaving early to catch the tide others leaving at midday trying to maximise the pleasure of sitting on the river watch the wildlife, or just enjoying a lazy breakfast on someone else’s boat. Another fun filled rally.
Thanks to the crews of Coya, Teau, Suomi, Scooby, Mouse Too, Shoogly, Liberty, No Faffing, Cooper Bouy and Pompey Lass for providing much laughter and enjoyment
Hilary & Mike
Saskia