For some the weekend began on Friday evening in the Clubhouse with a gathering to wish Alex and Ashley all the best as they begin their global travels aboard Celtic Wave.
The variable nature of the forecast did scare off some prospective cruisers but those who took the gamble were well rewarded. We woke on Saturday to the sound of heavy rain on the coachroof and wondered if anyone would make an appearance. A glance through the hatch ended our fears as many boats had already left their moorings. Lady Olivia, Northern Gipsy, Persuasion were on their way with would-be single handers Paul Ledsham and Jamie Cameron having teamed up to form Skybird's crew.
The rain soon cleared but the light wind remained in the NE so diesel power was the only viable means of propulsion. When the breeze backed and filled at the Spitway we enjoyed a pleasant beat up the Blackwater to Bradwell.
Whilst close tacking with Skybird off the beach by the power station Patanda was forced to crash tack when Paul and Jamie screamed for WATER. After extricating ourselves from the cockpit floor we discovered that the water they desired was to accompany their whisky - Very funny gentlemen, but trust us, revenge will be sweet...
Arrival at the entrance to Bradwell was a little early on the tide so all were able to practice their ploughing techniques in the creek.
Pre-dinner drinks aboard Lady Olivia were very welcome with the evening's jolliness moving on to the Green Man for a Club meal.
There was a very short passage to West Mersea on Sunday where we found a warm summer's day and the village buzzing with activity. For lunch we armed ourselves with wine and bread and began queuing somewhat optimistically for a table at The Company Shed. The wait proved well worth while as we were served with a huge and delicious seafood platter with locally caught crab, langoustines, cockles and oysters - fantastic. A short walk amongst the saltings was followed with refreshments at the Victoria.
Jamie and Paul kindly prepared our evening meal aboard Skybird and certainly did not deserve being dubbed the 'Two Fat Ladies' - but we all laughed anyway.
Monday's wind was again light and on the nose so we had little option but motor sail our way home.
Jerry Dennis Cruise Captain.
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