Smallest Rally , Longest Day
Just three boats with 6 members took part in this year's Hamble Rally, but the paucity of registrants was made up by the total participation in the planned and ad hoc very friendly programme. Premier Swanwick kindly accommodated Sea Air, Happy Place and Aeolus on the same pontoon, and took good care of us.
We substituted the customary welcome pontoon party for a 4 course supper and drinks on board 'Aeolus', followed by a delicious bacon and sausage bap breakfast on 'Sea Air'on day 2. Later drinks again on board 'Aeolus' followed by good fare at The Old Ship. The Rally walk was a 6+ mile land / sea / land adventure undertaken by all members in 2 separate expeditions, in both cases starting at the Mermaid Cafe for delicious coffee and cakes, a walk to Warsash for the Pink Ferry to Hamble Village, and then the 'Strawberry Trail' back to Bursledon, taking refreshment at Banana Wharf and then The Jolly Sailor (or the Fox & Hounds) – almost a pub crawl! Whilst the Hamble side walk was more challenging with undergrowth and incline, the views from Hamble View, Bursledon High Street were stunning.
The Saturday walkers were greeted at Hamble Quay by Shanty men and a fantastic display of classic cars, ancient and modern, which made the crew of 'Happy Place' very happy indeed.
We rounded off the rally with a really good meal at Harper’s Steakhouse & Bar followed by farewell drinks on board 'Happy Place'.
Great weather, fantastic company and 4 new friends - thanks to Nicky & Richard, and Georgina & David.
Jan and Paul - 'Aeolus'