Off we went to Chichester on Friday. We intended to anchor in Chichester the day before but the weather was foul so waited until Friday for the fair and light westerly wind to gently blow us to Chichester. Which is exactly what happened. Just using the Genoa we moved along at a leisurely 4 kts to the West Pole, sailed into the harbour and up to Itchenor. As it was Friday no one was in the harbour so no dodging the dinghies and other boats. All very undramatic!! No problems with getting into the lock and to our berth. It all went to plan at least for us!
Some boats had already arrived. It took a while to get the power working but after an hour or two the engineer got it going. Over the rest of the day the others arrived and we got together for pontoon drinks that evening.
Saturday was a cycle trip to Pagham RSPB , level country lanes provided a muddy sustrans route there but avoided on the way back. It was a lovely day for a bird walk; Swan, Oyster catcher, Shelduck, Cormorants, Mallards, to name a few. A few bugs and loads of flowers in bloom. The church is from the 13th century so that was nice to visit. Others went walking around the harbour or relaxed in the marina.
More boats arrived on Saturday. One a bit late in the day and was worried that they had missed their dinner. Fortunately we had a late dinner so they managed to get their meal in. More pontoon drinks and then off to dinner. A great long table at dinner and the food was good.
The trip back was equally easy and managed to sail from Itchenor to Seaview, where we took a free mooring for a lunch break before heading back home.
A lovely Rally with good weather and fantastic company!
Have fun and stay safe
Each skipper is responsible for the safety of their own boat and crew