The weather ‘gods’ were kind for the weekend given the preceding week was less than ideal for outdoor activity. The ebb tide caught one or two by surprise but generally speaking ‘parking’ went well. The bulk of the membership were accommodated at Universal Marina with a select few at Swanick. It’s about a 15-minute walk alongside the river between the two with zero lighting for those transiting after dark!
The rally kicked off with a pontoon party in the shadow of AMMONITE proudly flying the Club flag. Arrivals were timely and judging by the lateness of the hour when the last of the stalwarts departed, the serial was a success. Saturday dawned bright and clear heralding ideal conditions for the walk to the ‘Jolly Sailor’ pub of Howard’s Way fame. We set off from Universal’s ‘Mermaid Café’ – as cracking operation - and rendezvoused with the Swanick contingent en-route. One of the pub’s outside areas accommodated us all in comfort with plenty’s of refreshments and victuals to meet all needs. We wandered off independently, again in wonderful sunshine, for a lazy afternoon before fronting up at Universal’s ‘Riverside Social’ restaurant for a superb dinner.
The size of the group meant we were split between the upper mezzanine level and a select few ‘below stairs.’ It worked well. The food, staff and ambience were great with the wine and conversation flowing in equal measure.
Sunday saw a number of boats electing to leave early due to concerns about the weather and tides. This meant a VERY select band gathered at 0930 for the walk to Swanick’s Brick Museum. To say the visit exceeded expectations sums it up rather well. Bricks may not strike the reader as being the most interesting of items, however, our guide brought the subject alive and the process, beginning at the end of the 19th century and operating until the late ‘70’s was fascinating. Altogether a very worthwhile and well hosted visit. We were back onboard for about 1230 with all boats underway just after 1300. The trip back was unemotional with plenty to see along the way with the Sunday sailing activities in platforms to suit all tastes.
We had a maximum of 15 boats and judging by the smiles and warm words, a good time was had by all!