This year for the first time the Yarmouth 
Weekend rally followed directly on from the Yarmouth Midweek rally, so some vessels were already there when we arrived.
Unfortunately, the weather forecast had not been kind, but nevertheless 15 boats and 35 people were able to make it. Pontoon drinks were held near “nicknack” where everyone wrapped up to keep out the wind and crisps were caught as they blew away! Various groups dispersed later to their different places for an evening meal. Some who were booked into the Royal Solent were disappointed as the venue had a gas leak and cancelled their booking (a bit of a theme for the weekend!) Others ate on their own boats or with friends on another vessel, or in the pub!
On Saturday morning, one group headed off for breakfast at The Hut on the beach, others for a bus trip to the Needles and a large number guided by Warren and Judy set off for a walk along the River Yar for coffee and cake.
Drinks on Saturday night were again held on the pontoon by “nicknack” followed by most heading off to The Bugle Hotel for our rally dinner, change in venue, being precipitated by The King’s Head being sold a few days prior and our booking cancelled! The staff were friendly and efficient, the food was good and the company was great. With the forecast of a storm coming in on Sunday afternoon it was early nights all around.
The sailing boats planned to leave around 6 am on a “dawn dash” and the power boats between 8 and 8.30am although some were staying until Tuesday when a kindlier breeze was forecast!
We left on “nicknack” at 6am and were back in the lock with Bright Future by 9am, just before the rain set in – we even saw a new cruise ship leaving on its maiden voyage from Portsmouth with a fire-ship salute.
A big thank you for the company of Astrid, Blitz. Bright Future, Falaise, FantaSea, Happy Place, Liberty, Lucca, Paxi Moon, Pleasure, Saskia, Shiraz, Skye Raye, Yesterdays Dream. We enjoyed the company of new and longstanding members on this rally, as well as having a new boat Lucca on her first rally.
See you all again soon.
Nick and Gail